#guess who watched meteor lights recently

[acetictears]

pov: you just watched these two get destroyed by akatsuki but they are unbothered because of the power of love and friendship

[tomorrowxtogether]

TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI’s Animation Chitchat

The two TOMORROW X TOGETHER members talk animation and more

2021.12.06

The dreamlike production of the recently-released music video for the Japanese version of TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You),” featuring Ikuta Lilas, finds the five boys in a fantasy world unique to that particular version and even received a shoutout from anime director Makoto Shinkai. The song appears as the lead single on the group’s first Japanese EP, Chaotic Wonderland, an album that possesses all the persuasive power of the unique worldbuilding releases TOMORROW X TOGETHER has continuously put out since their debut. One need look no further than their ubiquity on the Japanese music charts, including their climb to the top of the weekly Oricon Albums Chart, to glean their level of popularity. In light of the release of their first Japanese EP, we asked TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI, TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s youngest members, about songs the group has worked on for animated works and TV dramas—like “Force,” “Everlasting Shine,” “Ito” and “EYES”—old animated shows and movies they like and the songs they’ve made.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s OST work

HUENINGKAI: Doing songs for anime OSTs was a little difficult. “Everlasting Shine” was our first exclusively Japanese song so the pronunciation was really hard and there was some level of difficulty to the singing itself, as I recall. By the time we did “Force” I had become more used to Japanese so I was able to pronounce it somewhat better but the song’s too fast. (laughs) I remember I had a hard time with it because of having to sing in Japanese that fast, but the song ended up sounding really cool.

TAEHYUN: If we’re doing a song for a dinosaur show OST, we’re not necessarily singing from the dinosaur’s perspective (laughs) but if I had to pick out something a little different when we sing on for OSTs—our fans listen to our studio albums, right? But for OSTs, people who don’t know us but watch the show get a chance to hear our music, so I think it’s important to show them what our voices and style are like. I look at it as though I’m introducing myself to people who don’t know me, so I try to sing like myself while remaining within the intention behind the work.

HUENINGKAI: I’m used to singing on our albums now and know what kind of feeling to put into them, but I think I pay a little extra attention on OSTs since they’re something different. “EYES,” for example, is the opening song to the show Armored Saurus, so I sang it more intensely than I normally would. I remember how I sang it very strong, not emotionally, and really enthusiastically as the producer guided me.

The “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You)” feat. Ikuta Lilas [Japanese Ver.] music video

TAEHYUN: I had no idea it would end up looking like that. People might think of a lot of different things when they see that scene with the falling meteor but I think it ends up looking like anime because it’s the Japanese version of the music video and also because of the warm colors on screen. At first I paid more attention to things like how the group dance turned out, but I did a lot of interpretation around the video’s story after MOA watched it. In fact, it feels like we’re figuring it out, too, when we watch it from MOA’s eyes. I think guessing what it means and talking about it is more fun than knowing for sure.

HUENINGKAI: I loved it. It’s so cool. It was my kind of style. (laughs) Our group’s music videos and album concepts seem to have some kind of really dreamy, fairytale-like vibe in general. I think that’s just our style.

TAEHYUN: I think the members’ appearances plays a big part of it, actually. BEOMGYU looks like he walked right out of a visual novel, for one, which I think fans like. “The boys look like they’re comic book characters and they’re working with animation, too.” (laughs) We’re glad they feel that way.

Why they like animation

HUENINGKAI: There’s a variety of genres and so I feel like the stories that all the writers think of are original and unusually immersive. I watch different kinds of animation the same way people who like movies watch different kinds of movies. I guess I’m destined to feel this way since I’ve loved animation ever since I was young. (laughs) I was too busy to watch any once I became a trainee but I started to watch them again here and there after debuting whenever I had time. I think that��s when I started to watch more serious animated works. (laughs)

TAEHYUN: Compared to HUENINGKAI, I’m just a muggle. (laughs) I don’t watch animation that often. I loved Pokémon when I started elementary school and up until around fifth grade, before I boxed. I guess Pokémon takes up a really big part of my memories. I played the games a ton. (laughs) So I think back to that time whenever I hear the background music from Pokémon. Actually, the reason I still think about Pokémon now isn’t because it’s so crazily good but because it’s a medium that stirs up nostalgia for that time.

Animation that’s left an impression

TAEHYUN: The Simpsons has the kind of humor I’m into. They parody a lot of movies in the show and a lot of clever jokes about areas like the economy and politics, and it’s really funny when you know what they’re satirizing or parodying. It feels like they wrap up the storylines really well by using jokes that lead to a lesson in the end. The stories resolve in fun ways and at the end Homer often says some iconic line, and when I watch it, it makes me think, “Ah, that’s a great point.” As a kid I just liked looking at the art style but now that I understand the point that the jokes are getting at that I couldn’t before, it’s even more enjoyable, so I keep on watching it.

HUENINGKAI: I recommended an anime called Clannad on Weverse before. It was the first time I ever cried while watching something animated. It was so sad, I sobbed uncontrollably. The theme of it is family. It’s got everything from action scenes and more but it was the story about family that was moving, and sad at the same time. It kept making me think about my own family. People who watch it say “Clannad is life.” (laughs) I couldn’t agree more, and I want to strongly recommend it, but some might find it a little boring at the beginning, and the kids’ eyes are kind of big. (laughs) But if you watch it to the end, you’ll see why it’s so powerful. (laughs)

Pokémon: TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI’s common denominator

TAEHYUN: I have so much to say about Pokémon. It's seriously a classic. I think it’s not so much a classic as just that it’s really amazing the way the world is designed. It’s cool the way they keep developing it over generations after the initial worldbuilding. Cartoons usually carry over between the first and second seasons but Pokémon is separated by generations. So I think the whole reason I can judge it like, “Some generations are classic, and some are a letdown”, because Pokémon has such a strong foothold.

HUENINGKAI: And they’re up to generation eight now. But the stories in generation one to generation eight are all connected, so there must be a lot of adult fans even now.

TAEHYUN: I think everything up to generation four is a masterpiece.

HUENINGKAI: No way! Gen five was phenomenal! I say up to generation five are classics. (laughs) The way I see it, gen five has the best storyline of all the generations.

The Yumeiro Patissiere OST and dreams of becoming a singer

HUENINGKAI: I was amazed and also glad that an old anime like Yumeiro Patissiere was trending again. I really liked it when I was a kid. I was secretly there watching from behind my sisters when they watched it and there was no way I could ever talk with my friends at school about it. (laughs) People were talking about the theme song for the show recently and I thought, “Yeah, everybody should know about this theme song.” (laughs) IU was the first singer I liked after moving to Korea, after all. And I was so happy that IU sang the theme song. (laughs)

TAEHYUN: I like the Yumeiro Patissiere theme song more than I do the show itself. The melody really suits the animation. It’s just so uplifting and nice. And I think the lyrics fit the idea behind the show really well, too.

HUENINGKAI: I think it was after watching Kirarin Revolution that I started to think about wanting to become a singer. It's about an ordinary girl who wants to be a singer, so I think that made me think, Wow, it looks so fun being a singer—I want to sing for a bunch of people, too. Lots of things influenced me to become a singer that way, and I think that was one of them.

Falling for the power of J-pop

HUENINGKAI: Thanks to animation, I’ve been listening to bands since I was little, so I fell in love with J-pop at some point. I imagine it’ll have an effect on my music later on as well. There are lots of other things I should try, too, but I feel like I want to put a lot of band-type songs on our albums.

TAEHYUN: I definitely think it’s helpful to keep an ear out for whatever music’s popular in different markets. Producer Bang is always saying that the minute an artist stops listening, they’re finished, which I absolutely agree with. So, while I used to be obsessed exclusively with the American music market, I’ve since broadened my horizons to listen to Japanese music, too, and now I can write different kinds of melodies as a result. I actually found the lyrics the most groundbreaking when I first listened to J-pop, more than the melodies or overall sound. If you look at the themes of the music on the big charts in each country, you can see the themes they embrace there overall. In Japan, they have a philosophical way about their words that’s different from other countries. I thought maybe I could work that into TOMORROW X TOGETHER.

The Star Seekers: TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s collaborative original story

HUENINGKAI: I really enjoyed it. (laughs) Each of the characters matched up with the five of us, they navigated that tough situation and the way the story was fleshed out was great. I really liked how it seemed like there was a really solid plot. It feels like The Doom’s Night was only the prologue so I’ll be sure to watch it all to see how the whole story comes together. (laughs) I’m curious how it’ll all unfold.

TAEHYUN: There are people who like us and people who watch animation, so it makes sense there could be people who like both. I think it must feel just like a gift to them. Like Huening said, they must love to be able to say, “My favorite artist did the music for this animation I like.” So if they can say someone’s making these animations with characters based on their favorite artists, the fans must love that.

The inimitable quality of TOMORROW X TOGETHER

HUENINGKAI: I think people will like us even better if they watch our music videos or other original stories together with our music. I hope everyone will stay tuned because we’re going to keep making different songs and video content for everyone.

TAEHYUN: I think it’s more important to be a unique artist than to be a good one. For example, I can’t imagine anyone other than Justin Bieber doing “Peaches.” And I can’t imagine anyone else singing “Dynamite.” We’ve done covers, too, but there’s definitely something to the artists who sing the original songs that we can’t capture. I hope we can make that kind of inimitable music, too.

[nothing-but-dreamy]

DRUNK CONFESSION

Pairing: Gladio x Fem!Reader

Words: 1.367

Warnings: none, fluff

Synopsis: After a night in Lestallum's nightlife, yn makes an unplanned confession.

Laughing and swaying, Yn bumped into Gladio as they were on their way back to the hotel 'Leville'. She giggled as she bounced back from his solid body. Gladio held her steady with his hands on her small shoulders before she would trip over, "You belong into your bed, sweetheart.", he chuckled, amused how yn tried to get a clearer mind by shaking her head.

"No... I'm fine...", she mumbled and looked up at the huge King's Shield. Suddenly, she stopped giggling. She stared into Gladio's eyes and into his face, taking in every inch as if she saw him for the very first time, "Why are you so damn beautiful.", yn said low, sounding more sober than minutes ago.

Shaken with surprise, Gladio raised his brows, "W-what?"

"You're beautiful. Sure, you're also sexy, tall, handsome, all this but also so god damn beautiful with your amber eyes, your soft brown hair, your perfect lips."

Insecurely, Gladio chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. It was one thing to be confident about oneself but it was something different if someone else was so straight forward mostly when it was yn who wasn't known for such outbreaks, "Come on, you're drunk. You don't know what you're saying.", Gladio said laughing, trying to push yn softly into the right direction.

But she stopped and stemmed herself against his moves, "I'm serious, Gladio.", she slurred, "You're the most beautiful man I have ever seen. And then, you're also so nice and sweet and strong. You're the epitome of walking perfection."

"Thank you very much. We-"

"I understand why you're so successful with women. Although, if I think about it now, there were barely any new trophies by your side recently. Why's that? Why are you going out for drinks with me instead of having fun with some ladies?"

"Come, we bring you to bed."

"And my questions?", yn asked stubbornly.

"Here's the deal: if you go to bed now and you can still remember this weird conversation later, I will answer the questions. Alright?"

"Deal. And don't think you can escape me easily.", yn said serious, stumbling forward.

"Yeah, I fear I can't.", Gladio whispered concerned.

***

The next morning, yn sneaked out of her room she shared with Iris to go down the hallway in search of Gladio. The door of the boy's room was already open. Prompto sat on his bed with crossed legs and checked the pictures he had made the day before.

"Hey, Prompt. Where's Gladdy?"

"He said something about the panorama view spot. I guess he wants to see the meteor in the morning light. Would be a nice motive tho..."

"Thanks."

"Hey, uhm... Is everything alright between you and him?"

"Sure. Why wouldn't it be?", Yn asked confused.

"Well...", Prompto said, scratching the back of his neck.

"Prompt, spit it out."

"He was unusually quiet as he came back. And I guess, he had barely slept considering the dark circles and the grumpy mood."

"Oh... I'll go and check on him."

***

As yn found Gladio, he leant against the handrail, supporting himself with his arms and letting his eyes wander over the view. Slowly, she approached him and for the first time, she wasn't sure how things were between them, "Good morning.", she said softly and watched how Gladio stiffened by the sound of her voice.

"Morning.", he answered low.

She stopped next to him, copying his posture while looking over the scene. The view was indeed incredible. As he stayed silent, she knew she had to start, "Prompt said you haven't slept. Was it because of my ... confession last night?", she asked softly and watched how Gladio pressed his jaw together while he kneaded his hands.

"You still remember that, huh?", he asked low, avoiding her eyes.

"Yeah... I mean, I was the one who had said all these things and I... Even if I drink very, very much, I barely forget something. Boon and bane of me.", yn explained, "I also remember my questions about your ladies or rather ... the absence of ladies. I... Look, I want to apologize. I shouldn't have asked all these things about your private life."

"And all the other things? About my appearance?", Gladio asked, turning his head towards her but still not looking into yn's eyes.

"Sorry, big guy, I meant them. All of it. Maybe I wouldn't have blurted them out if I hadn't been drunk or... wouldn't have said them at all, but... I won't take them back. I really meant them. I guess, your ego can handle that because you're used to such compliments."

Gladio nodded but stayed silent.

"But like I said it's not me to judge whom you meet or not. So, I'm sorry. I hope you can forgive me.", Yn said and as he still stayed silent, she decided to leave him alone to give him some space and time.

"It's because of you.", Gladio said low.

"W-what?"

"That there aren't any 'ladies' around me.", Gladio said, copying her choice of words, "That's because of you. And no, no one called me beautiful before. At least, not as you did."

"Wait a sec! What do you mean with "it's because of me"? I haven't done anything!"

"You didn't have to. I developed feelings for you therefore, I already spend time with the lady I prefer the most."

"Gladio, I... I had no idea."

"And that's how it should be. You shouldn't feel obliged and I didn't want to make it awkward between us."

"You mean awkward like right now?"

"Yeah... I mean, I would lie if I say I wouldn't feel flattered about your compliments but...you were drunk-"

"You know what they say: children and fools tell the truth.", yn said and closed up on Gladio who looked at the ground. Never before, she had seen this big guy so intimidated and insecure, "Gladio, I really meant every single word. And I... I could imagine more between us than just a friendship. I just never thought I would be your type."

Gladio shook his head and chuckled while he stepped forward, taking one of her hands in his, drawing circles on the back of her hand with his thumb, "So, we both want more and neither of us said something?"

"I did say something yesterday! Maybe we should have gone out earlier...", yn considered thoughtfully while tapping her lips with her index finger.

Gladio cupped her face with his free hand, craning her head up to meet his eyes, "And maybe we should just kiss?"

"Better idea, big guy.", Yn said with a bright smile. She got on her tiptoes to reach his lips while Gladio bent down to kiss her softly. Quickly, the kiss became stronger and yn flung her arms around his neck while Gladio embraced her waist to bring her closer and to cherish the moment that increased his heartbeat...

"Yes! Finally! Ahhh!"

Startled by the sudden turmoil, Gladio and yn separated and turned over to the source of the noise. They saw Prompto, Noctis and Ignis lying tangled together on the ground with Iris on top of them who smiled from ear to ear triumphantly, "I almost thought you two would never come together. It took you two ages!"

"What to the biting Sabertusk is going on here?", Yn called out, chuckling and watching how her friends got slowly back on their feet.

While Noctis and the others tried to clean their clothes from the dust, Iris ran towards yn and embraced her strongly, "Finally! You two are perfect together.", the small bubbly girl said giggling.

While yn embraced Iris back, she saw an exchange of Gil between the boys. Noctis and Ignis gave a small amount of money to Prompto. Prompto, grinning from ear to ear, counted the money while Noctis stood there with crossed arms, "One more month and I would have won.", the prince muttered.

"Don't worry, your highness, next time, I will ask you for permission.", Yn said chuckling.

Gladio stepped forward, placing his hand on yn's shoulder, "Next time?", he asked with one raised brow but with a smirk on his lips.

Yn looked up, "Just kidding.", she said with a wink.

[sweetchup]

A Helping Hand 4: Ghosts of Pasts // Day 1

Type: Shalnark x reader

Au?: Savior Au

Word Count: 2,800+

Warnings: Reminsing of last chapter, Injury, Meteor City mentioned

Author Note: Ah! I’m glad to be back writing this series sorry for the long wait. I split chapter 4 up into multiple parts so it’s going to be looooong.

Also, I’ve started a Taglist for all of my series to make it easier for people to find out when the next installation is. So if you want the be added just sent me an ask thats not anonymous and I’ll add you.

<—(Pt.3) / (Pt.4.2)��>

A Helping Hand Masterlist

It was the eve of December 18th, when snow finally fell throughout the Republic of Padokea. However, there was no celebration or cheer by the citizens as all of the festive winter holidays had already passed by then. With most just deciding to bunker in for a quiet night at home. Even at the Hospital near the bloodthirsty Heaven’s Arena it was rather quiet, almost dull in a way.

Though, one specific doctor, Doctor (y/n) of the intensive care unit, had little to complain about the lack of patients and activity. It was rather refreshing actually, mostly due to the fact it was your last night on the job before you went on your week long holiday break, a break you had planned out with your supervisor months ahead of time.

Months before you had met a specific man. Much more specifically, a specific patient named Shalnark Ryuseih. A member of the infamous Phantom troupe who you had saved from his demise at the Heaven’s Arena.

…. As well as someone you might have developed a really really big crush on during your time taking care of him. But, that’s a story for another day and something you shouldn’t be worrying about right now. Especially since you still have plenty of time left on the clock before you go home.

As the seconds click a way, you find yourself letting out a groan. It was no use. You couldn’t get him out of your mind.

You just wished that it was the usual thoughts of Shalnark that festered in your mind during work. The ones that were caused from something as simple as him holding you in his arms tighter than usual while he slept one night or perhaps a teasing comment he shot at you while passing in the hall.

But that sadly wasn’t the case.

For the last couple of weeks, Shalnark had been acting…… weird.

Well he technically always acted weird—a man who actually enjoyed indulging in birthday cake flavored ice cream could not be considered normal in your book— but this time, he was actually acting quite strange.

Sometimes, when doing check ups or just visiting his room you could hear him sigh. It was quite unnoticeable at first, you had just thought he was frustrated with some new tech thing he got into, but as December went on the sigh only got heavier and more frequent. This was also when some of Shalnark’s other actions started to be strange as well, something as simple as,“What are you doing for the Holidays?” Or, actually now that you think about it, anything that was remotely related to the holidays would have the corner of his lips drop slightly. Something very strange for him, for he hardly faltered that smile of his.

And it wasn’t as if you weren’t trying to find out what was wrong. You had asked him plenty of times about his new habits. Though, in a Shalnark fashioned way, he would just brush you off with a grin and be confused as to what you were talking about.

So, if Shalnark isn’t going to tell you himself what was wrong. You were just going to have to take it upon yourself to make him feel better. Emotional health is just as important as physical health in your book.

“For the last time (y/n), I hope you know what you are getting yourself into.” Mal reminds you for the 15th time since you entered her office space.

“Yes, yes. I understand, don't worry about it.” You reassure the older woman as you continue to fill in the blanks to finish up the paperwork. All the while attempting to ignore her as she nags your ear off. “Okay I’m done. Thanks by the way Mal, I really owe you one”

As Mal takes the paperwork from your hands, she gives you one last warning of caution,

“I know Shalnark is under your care and all, and you have gotten pretty close to him during his stay…. but don’t you think having him leave with you for vacation is a little much? It’s legal, for some odd reason, but you should be careful. Not only is he a grown man that could try anything while you are alone with him but if any of the higher ups hear about this, you could get in a lot of trouble.”

“True, but I doubt that,” You hum out as you fumble with grabbing your winter coat off the rack, “The higher ups don’t exactly care much about paperwork unless one of the secretaries, like yourself, reports something. So unless you choose to report me, I don’t have much to worry about.”

“Fine. Just…. be careful. I swear you have been getting more and more reckless the more you spend with that man.”

“I will. Don’t worry, Mal. See you in a week!!”

“Okay, see you in a week.” Mal responds back, her wave goodbye immediately faltering as you close the door. Taking a deep breath to calm down the uneasy feeling in her gut, She just hoped you knew what you were doing.

Once Mal sends you off, you make your way in the direction of Shalnark’s room. You are excited to tell him about your little surprise but also quite scared because you did not exactly ask him… permission…. to sign him out.

���Come in.” Shalnark's voice rings out from behind the door as you knock. Coming into the room, you see that, as per normal, Shalnark was clicking away at his laptop. He seemed busy with something since even when you took the seat at his bedside he couldn’t seem to tear his eyes away from the screen.

After a couple more minutes of listening to the clicking of keys, Shalnark finally closes his laptop and turns his attention to you.

“Hello (y/n)! What brings you in here today?” He asks, resting his chin on one of his hands as he observes you. As Shalnark scans you up and down you can’t help but notice the mischievous look in those blue eyes of his. You kind of wondered what he was thinking, or possibly planning, but then again— knowing Shalnark —you didn’t want to know what was running through that brain of his.

“Can’t I just visit you?”

“I guess you could.” Shalnark comments halfheartedly as if you don’t already visit him for fun on the daily already, “I’m just surprised you haven’t gone home for your vacation. It’s your last shift tonight, right?”

Shalnark might have asked the last part as a question, but you already knew— from tons of experience with dealing with him —that he already formed his own answer in his head.

“Missed me that much huh?...” Shalnark whispers out, his eyes seeming to sparkle under the light as he leans back against the headboard of his bed.

“S-shut up.” You grumble out. Swiftly putting the paperwork in your hand up to your face as you could already feel your cheeks begin to flare up from flusteration. You swore this man had no sense of fear or dignity.

“Hmm?” You feel Shalnark grab at the paperwork wrinkled in your hand; recognizing his photo ID on the cover. “What’s this?”

“Paperwork.”

“What type of Paperwork?” Shalnark presses forward, already taking it from your hand to examine it. No matter how close you two have gotten during his stay, he has always been extremely thorough about looking at what you put down on his paperwork. Must be something he picked up while being in the troupe you guessed.

Suddenly, you see Shalnark’s gaze pause on a section of the paperwork. His body unintentionally freezing up in surprise as he rereads it again. However, instead of instantly asking or explaining his confusion, your eyes are trained to his lips, ever so slightly parted due to confusion.

Unconsciously, you run your fingers over your neck. Your mind flashing back to what happened when Shalnark was under the effect of the aphrodisiac drug. The tingly feeling of his lips raking up and down your neck. Kissing, sucking and biting at any possible skin he could—

“(Y/n), What is this?” He mumbles out, his eyes still trained to the paperwork.

“U-uh Well…” You pause for a second as you try to calm yourself down from your thoughts, thinking about what you should exactly say, “Recently, I’ve noticed you being quite down. Kind of depressed or miserable in a way—”

“Huh? I haven’t been depressed.” Shalnark exclaims, snapping out of the trance he was in as well as cutting off what you were saying.

“Let me finish idiot.” You grumble at Shalnark, flicking his forehead in anger. “Also even if you aren’t depressed—“

“Which I’m not.”

“...Do you want to get punched this time?” You threatened, watching as Shalnark suddenly broke out in a cold sweat. Memories flashing in his head of Lara pissing you off and facing your unwavering wrath. After one last glare, you continued what you were explaining, “As I was saying, Even if you aren’t depressed, it would be good for you to get out of the hospital. Hence why I decided to sign you out for my vacation week.”

It’s silent in the room as Shalnark just stares at you; an unreadable expression on his face. However, before you can figure out what expression it was, he quickly snaps out of it.

“Oh nice. That’s actually awesome.” Shalnark announces out, letting out a small giggle. “Just one question though… Is this even legal?”

“In a way…” You squeak out, watching as Shalnark looks at you with a knowing smile. Clearly understanding that you were pressing the line of legality and a possible felony in this situation.

“Well,” You watch as Shalnark shuffles out of bed; Planting his feet in front of yours before sending you a subtle wink, “Let’s get out of here before we get caught, okay?”

—.—.—.—.—.—

“So,” Shalnark starts, looking at the small white townhouse in front of him, “This is your house?”

“Um. Yeah?” You answer questioningly as you fiddle with your keys, “What about it?”

“Oh nothing.” You watch as Shalnark squats down in front of the garden gnome next to your tomato plant. Seeming to take in the plethora of plants covering your front patio. “It’s cute. I like it.”

“Thanks.” You mumble out bashfully as you unlock the front door, “I only rent the bottom floor of this place so it's quite small. But it's home.”

Before you enter, You offer a hand to help Shalnark up (He still has quite the injury in his legs after all) and watch as he walks inside your house; a limp still ever present as he walks. You just hope that he doesn’t push himself too far while with you. He might be a nen user but—

“Oh wow!” Shalnark’s voice calls out from inside the house, breaking your train of thoughts as you shut and lock the door. Confused yet curious at what he found interesting in your house, you slipped off your shoes—taking a small mental note that you should tell Shalnark to take off his as he forgot to— and walked over to his location. As you round the corner of the hall and gaze into your living room, you can’t help but let out a huff of a laugh. You can’t believe you totally forgot about Chloe.

There she stood, your 8 year old Sphynx cat that a college roommate had given you years ago, curled up in a fluffy blanket on top of her cat tree. Shalnark stood in front of the tree, looking up at the cat with an amused look as it glared down at him.

“Chloe.” You call out to your cat as you make your way next to Shalnark, “Come here baby.”

As you lift the cat off the tower, still wrapped in a blanket, and cradle her in your arms, you feel your breath hitch for a second. You turn your head as you feel a sudden pressure on your back and see Shalnark leaning over your shoulder. You stood there frozen and flustered, unable to move or look away from his face, from how close he was to you. However, Shalnark doesn’t notice how flustered you are; his attention focused on the cat in your arms. Eventually, he brings his hand down to pet her. Watching curiously as she sniffs his hand for a second before allowing him to touch her.

“They truly don’t have any fur…” Shalnark muses out as he rubs at Chloe’s ears, causing you to smile as you feel the rumbling of her purrs against your chest. “Hey (y/n)... did you know these guys are actually from Meteor city?”

“Wait… Really?” You shout out surprised, finally snapping out of the trance you were in.

“Yep!” Shalnark states rather proudly, “They were caused by accidental breeding by abandoned cats in the junkyards. …Though, the ones from Meteor city are quite rabid and terrifying so you can’t pet them like this. They would surely kill you.”

Startled, you give Shalnark a confused look, “No way…You're joking…”

“Nope.” He responds, popping the ‘p’ at the end as he walks away from you two and takes a seat on the couch. Your back suddenly feeling quite cold now that he was no longer next to you. “Even our toughest members like Phinks and Feitan were scared of those things.”

“Oh wow…“ You mumble out in amazement, placing Chloe back at the top level of the cat tree before taking a seat next to Shalnark. “...Meteor City sure sounds scary.”

“Eh, in a way.” Shalnark sighs out, stretching his back before suddenly resting his head on your lap. Startled at the act of affection, you freeze and stare down at him. Your mouth agape in shock. What… What was he doing?

“Oh.” Shalnark murmurs out as he takes note of your expression, already beginning to sit up, “Sorry, I stepped over a line didn’t I—”

“Ah! No!” You shout out, startling the both of you at how loud you were, “I mean… uh. I don’t mind, it just surprised me that’s all.”

“Oh. Okay?” Shalnark says, raising an eyebrow at you. As he sees your still worried expression looking down at him as he lays back down, he decides to flick at your forehead, surprising you. You two stare at each other for a couple of seconds before breaking out into light laughter at your stupid expression.

“W-what was that huh?”

As your laughter eventually stops, leaving you two in a comfortable silence, you stare down at Shalnark; his arms lazily crossed above his head with his eyes shut.

“You know…” You start, a stifle of a giggle sneaking up as a funny thought crosses your mind, “...You remind me of a cat right now.”

“Oh really?” Shalnark huffs out amused, popping one of his eyes open to gaze up at you.

“Yeah. All elongated on the couch, looking like you're about to fall fast asleep… Just like a little kitty cat.” You cooed out at him, taking two strands on the opposite sides of his head to form cat ears.

Shalnark sputters out a laugh before sending you a wink, “Go on. Give me a pet, Doc.”

You feel yourself freeze up as everything that has happened in these last couple of minutes hits you like a truck. Shit… You're his doctor, you idiot. This was what Mal was talking about about you getting too close with him. You have feeling for him but you can’t—

“Hey (y/n). You know…” Shalnark murmurs out, snapping you out of your thought, “One day…, I would like to take you to Meteor City.”

“R-really?” You answered, confused as where this was suddenly coming from.

“Yeah…” You watch as Shalnark eyes shift up towards the ceiling. His eyes unfocused and expression dazed as if he was off in a distant memory, “Not right now… But, In the spring…”

A smile slowly edges its way onto his face.

“Yeah… The spring,” He murmurs out again, sort of to himself, before looking at you, “You wouldn’t believe what it is like in Meteor City at the start of spring, (Y/n)... After a long hard rainy winter, seeds from rotten food, or hidden in garbage, come blooming out. It hardly lasts a month but… It’s gorgeous….”

As he stares up at you with those dazzling blue eyes of his, you can’t help but finally allow your hand to rest in his blonde locks. Wanting to understand more about that far off memory he had.

“I-I…” You murmur out, pausing as a small smile comes upon your face, “I can’t wait… Shal. Do… Do you think you could tell me more about your home while I wait?”

Just…

Just one more time, you’ll let your affections slide.

Allowing yourself to blur the lines of professionalism and wanting more.

Taglist: @meromelodi, @quartetstarheaven, @yumezai, @lvndrhwis, @writtenappreciation , @jojo-sinner, @pastelbear12, @aly-kurta, @bbunnycore, @feifood

[ginkgomoon]

Gavin’s Mini House In Detail 🏡

During the Mini House special events, I obtained all the furnishing items and had already unlocked all the furniture in the home so I thought for Gavin’s Birthday Week, I would share all of the little secrets it contains! 

Gavin has four sections of the house including-

Living Room

Loft 

Courtyard

Basement

This post also includes MC’s commentary and quotes from special happenings associated with Gavin. Special furnishes will have the coziness points indicated next to its name.

Please enjoy! 

Living Room

Soft Stool 

The white soft stool next to the tea table.

This stool is a must when Gavin watches soccer games.

The leather surface is very soft, and its height is just right for watching TV on.

Want to know the trend of the soccer lottery recently? How about asking about it? 

It seemed to have won all the recent games, and is both happy and lonely.

If his favourite team loses, Gavin will sit here alone. (#sad) 

White Sofa 

With so many pillows, you don’t have to worry about having no support behind you.

Is the white sofa difficult to clean? 

The bolsters are very comfortable.

Curled up on the sofa with soft ginkgo aroma.

“Gavin, do you remember what you told me?”

“I just want to be with you, just like this...”

“You still remembered!” 

“I won’t forget what I’ve told you.” 

“Then... Do you have anything you want to tell me this time?” 

Gavin kissed MC’s forehead gently.

- This special happening (Starry Sky) refers to the Furniture City Date!

White Table 

“Gavin’s Pad is placed here too.”

(It has a photo of MC and she says she will change it into the both of them next time.)

“I can add a snack box, but Gavin doesn’t really eat snacks.”

Hallway Cabinet

“Gavin waters the plants regularly.”

“These are often loose change on the cabinet which we can take before going out.”

“The silver ornament is a souvenir I bought when we went to Disneyland.”

The “Wavy Thing”

“I noticed a little “go for it” written on the most recently scrawled page of the notebook.” 

“I found a magazine that puts people to sleep in a second, which was necessary for insomniacs.”

Zoombot 

The black Zoombot.

Today I’m again busy all over the place saving Zoombot.

It’s a bit stupid and often gets stuck after hitting the furniture.

Makes a buzzing sound when working.

You threaten it: If you hang again, I’ll replace you!  

Music Stand

The music stand bought by Gavin.

On it are sheets of music scores printed by Gavin.

It will sometimes think that the small black table next to it is a bit short.

Sometimes Gavin uses in in the hanging chair to record melodies.

Gavin will print the music scores and put them on it to practice.

Flowers on the Wall 

Each flower is carefully selected by Gavin.

The front wall stores a variety of flowers.

The flowers on the entire flower wall are all preserved fresh flowers. 

Black Table and Seat 

Looking at it closely, it is the song that Gavin played last time. (Music score sheet on table.) 

It is also very comfortable with the little black seat cushion next to it.

The soft black cushion stuffed with cotton.

My exclusive seat for Gavin’s recital.

I bought it with Gavin when we were shopping at the furniture market.

Hanging Chair/Rose Hanging Chair (Coziness 88)

A great napping spot.

Here in the Leisure Time special happening, MC and Gavin talk about the swing they had in high school. MC is surprised that Gavin knew about the view of the sunset when being on it. He says he “passed by” sometimes. MC notes how the ginkgo leaves danced in the wind. He says, “they were gifts from another person”.

Heart-Shaped Chair (Coziness 28)

A cute small stool and a convenient storage box.

Gavin’s expression was a bit subtle while he sat on it first.

Alternating blue and pink hearts, as it’s a Valentine’s Day limited edition.

Surfboard Cabinet (Coziness 42)

It’s a new surfboard. Bring it next time we travel.

There are also other surfboards. Guess where they are? 

It says fly on the surfboard, like I can leap through waves with it.

(THEIR CUTE SHOES ARE NEXT TO IT AHHH)

Blue Lamp

A lamp that always blows bubbles from the bottom to top.

It’s beautiful and dreamlike when switched on at night.

Black Table on the Left 

“This looks like the score that Gavin played on the beach last time. I suddenly feel a bit nostalgic.”  - This refers to the Slightly Drunken Date!

“I found a picture of an asleep Gavin. He was sleeping soundly.”

Claw Machine and Carpet 

A dream-like claw machine. Gavin will add new dolls in it.

The inserted game coins can be taken out from the back of the machine and then reused.

A small black carpet in front of the claw machine.

I bought it together with the large carpet.

Red Bunny, White Bunny, Pink Bunny, Red Bunny, Grey Bunny.

Motorcycles 

The blue motorcycle sometimes want to compete with the opposite motorcycle.

The colour of the motorcycle displayed is sky blue. 

Maybe its name will be “Azure”? (because Gavin uses colours to individually name items.) 

Spring Landscape Display 

The landscape has been embedded into the window, like beautiful paintings.

Maybe there is a new world inside.

I can't help stopping to enjoy the view each time I pass.

Is designed for a wider view, improving your mood even when you're tired.

Winter Landscape Display (Coziness 61)

A corresponding landscape should be changed into winter.

Such heavy snow! Frozen river! Unfortunately, they are all fake. 

You can enjoy the red maple leaves and snow even at home, isn’t it wonderful?

Loft 

Painting

This is a word map that covers the entire wall.

Looking at it, Gavin and I have already been to so many places.

If you want to travel, you can find the destination on it in advance.

I'm willing to create memories with him in many more places.

Chandelier

The current iron style design is really cool.

Shines warm yellow when turned on, warming our hearts.

Display Cabinet  

It should have been a wine cabinet, but Gavin doesn’t drink, so it became a display cabinet.

The ‘little things’ between me and Gavin are displayed inside.

It looks empty now, but it will slowly be filled up in the future.

Black Tea Table

A black low table in front of the sofa.

I occasionally work here.

The star and moon deco piece is very beautiful, I picked it with Gavin.

You can put fruits and snacks on it while reading.

The wood texture had a matted quality with the black coat of paint.

Art 

Looks cold but is artistic.

Seems useless, but also seems cool.

Greenery

A corner with blooming flowers all seasons, is warm and restful to the eye.

Outside the window is a huge ginkgo tree, and the fallen leaves are like brocade.

I feel like it’s always spring with all these flowers around.

It compliments the scenery outside the window. (They have a ginkgo tree right outside their home!) 

Cabinet 

Photo framed have karmas from the Starry Date and the Romantic Date!

Decorative Cabinet/Snowman Closet (Coziness 49)

The two little snowmen stared at each other throughout the winter. (Cute little reference to the CN Recovery ASMR.)

It looks like a window at first glance, but it’s actually a cabinet if you look carefully.

And you could open it. Didn’t see that coming right? 

Starry Sky Wall (Coziness 52)

Today’s wish… I hope that Gavin…

I will accompany you to see the meteor rain which falls on this Earth.

Every moment a wish is realised, there will be a meteor streaking across the sky.

Dandelion Lamp (Coziness 43)

The lamp looks exactly like the grapefruit during Mid-Autumn Festival.

Like a burning sparkler, shining brightly.

Six light sources, not too dazzling nor too dark.

Festive Decoration Table (Coziness 57)

Although there are two cups of drinks, we can still drink from the same cup.

The sofa in the corner always makes people feel safe. 

Although we are only two people, I still chose two long couches.

The letter under the ginkgo biloba leaf, writes a love poem.

All the shopping bags represent his most flawless love.

The wide view allows you to see the scenery in the yard.

The soft white mat was added afterwards.

But it’s always hot under the sunlight, so the curtain is often pulled down.

Basement

Security Camera 

You are in a monitored area, please mind your actions.

Bulletproof Glass 

It’s not a normal screen, it’s bulletproof.

It's not often that one gets to see such a cool and HARD-CORE transparent screen.

Anyways, curious what’s in this wall.

Sci-fi glass wall in the movies.

The engraved badge is Gavin’s silent pride.

1-2-3... still shorter than it!

Gingko Tree

Seasons slip by soundlessly.

No matter how small their wishes are, they will become seeds and eventually bloom in gold.

All life’s little joys turned into gold.

It guards the serene life here quietly over in the corner.

(Gavin makes ginkgo bookmarks with them for MC. CRIES.)

Corner Resting Area 

These action figures are actually pretty fun!

The puzzle is all grown up. It should be able to piece itself back together. (LOL)

(Puzzle) Maybe finish it while Gavin’s gone? 

(Table) It sometimes thinks the table is a bit short.

(Chair) It looks hard but it’s actually comfortable to sit on.

Very spacious, but looks a bit empty.

Some decorations should be displayed here.

Sitting on a blanket is also very comfortable. You can also lean on the small pillow. 

(Carpet) This is a carpet. You can’t tell, right? 

The advanced smart carpet that is warm in winter and cool in summer is awesome.

(The book on the table is called ‘Kritik Der Urteilskraft’- The Critique of Judgement by famous German philosopher Immanuel Kant. It follows after the Critique of Pure Reason and the Critique of Practical Reason- the First and Second Critiques, respectively. The Critique of Judgment constitutes a discussion of the place of Judgment itself, which must overlap both the “understanding” and “reason”.)

“You need to take better care of your health.”

“Who was the one working overnight over the proposal the other day?”

“Alright, we’re birds of a feather, so... so both of us should look after ourselves for each other!” 

“Rest assured, I will. After all, it’s different now. I have you by my side.”  -Harmonous Compa Special Happening

Gavin’s Workspace

Accompany Gavin though every sleepless night.

This seems… No, I’m seeing things.

All folders are neatly organised and arranged.

A spacious table, with files and reports spread all over when busy.

I no need to worry about waking up from naps due to cold late at night.

I was reminded of some criminal investigation shows I have watched. Come on, Officer Gavin!

If this complicated case is made into a movie, it will be an exhilarating one. 

(Computer) A customised large-screen UHD model customised for work purpose.

(Computer) Work exclusive computer, only connected to intranet.

(Computer) The three auxiliary monitors can help keep the data safe.

(Chair) If you want to protect your waist, you should first have a comfortable cushion.

(Chair) if you work long hours, be sure to work in a comfortable chair.

(Board Area) What does it say? Ermm… Cats have nine lives? 

“Found a girl crookedly drawn next to a work record when he reached a bottleneck.” 

Airplane

This airplane model was assembled by Gavin himself.

The computer says-  Agent B-7

Team Operator S.T.R.I.K.E

Location Tracker 

S.P.Y Camera 

U4V Commando

Gunship Operation 

Motorcycle Repair Area 

Every vehicle is so cool in its own way! 

Hello, you are... Little… Erm… Let me think… 

With the strength to lift mountains and the spirit to take on the world! Ha! 

The robot arm is actually a simple robot.

For your safety, please don’t linger below it

(Motorcycle) I would like to greet my seniors.

Electronic Control Pad

Responsible for controlling the rising, descending and switches of the entire area.

On Spring Festival, it will say: Happy New Year, Sir!”

Sooner or later, fully automated smart management will be achieved.

Radio Office 

It’s an important communication device, and the only disadvantage is that it’s a bit heavy.

It’s actually a satellite phone, and it can receive signals everywhere.

Looks like the palm phone in the 90s. Oh no, I’ve exposed myself.

It looks like an electrocardiogram.

Don’t know how to use this weird device.

A thick laptop that it’s properly shut when not in use.

A cool eagle logo is printed on it.

Gavin used it only for special tasks and it will not be brought out.

LMAO MC DOESN’T HAVE ACCESS-

Courtyard 

Corner Seating Area 

A courtyard in sunny or snowy days are interested in their own ways.

Sometimes the unfrequented bolsters will envy the knee pillow.

It's’ wonderful when two people are sitting here reading, even if they don’t talk.

Standing barefoot on the soft lawn is very comfortable.

There's nothing nicer than basking ourselves when its sunny.

Binoculars

The white binoculars which you can see things several miles away.

You can use it to watch the stars when it’s not too cloudy.

But star-watching is clearer mid-air.

Seems to be the same binoculars as those in the scenic area.

The binoculars in the scenic area require coins, but this one doesn't.

Outdoor Lounge Chairs 

The new furniture I asked Gavin to buy.

Can enjoy the sunlight spa comfortably when relaxing. 

Closing my eyes, I feel like I’m lying on a beach.

The soft breeze and warm sunshine. This is life. 

Lying on it and looking at the blue sky and white clouds, your mind goes blank easily.

The blue and white clouds-

Leisure Table/Romantic Table (Coziness 52)

Lace tablecloth… I can’t imagine that it was chosen by Gavin.

The elaborately prepared dinner and roses, just for today.

A large sunshade on the balcony. (Black large umbrella.)

Bird Nest (Coziness 37) 

Once it was a pair of binoculars, now it’s a bird’s nest.

I bought it just because it was cute, but I’ll consider having pets in the future.

Birds flying by can also have a free meal here.

[lovemesomesurveys]

When was the last time you fell?: It’s been a long time.

What's the last flavor of ice cream you had?: I think mint chocolate chip. Ugh, that sounds so good.

Do you know a Stephen?: No.

Green or Purple?: I like shades of both.

Are you currently mad at anyone?: Myself.

Do you own any sundresses?: No.

Have you done any deep cleaning recently?: No, I’m not able to do anything right now. But let’s be real even if I wasn’t laid up in the hospital I wouldn’t be doing any “deep” cleaning, ha.

Have you ever cooked a meal for a large group of people?: I can’t cook unless it’s ramen or something I can throw into the oven or microwave. I mean, I’ve made ramen for someone else as well and cooked an oven pizza or baked something that others had too, so I guess if you want to count those things lol.

Do you like reading peoples survey answers?: Yeah.

Do you check your email daily?: I do. Mainly just to get rid of the notifications.

Have you ever used a whole tube of chapstick or do you usually lose it before doing so?: I don’t think I’ve ever finished one.

When did you last wash your hands?: Earlier.

Do you enjoy being outside in the rain?: I enjoy the rain from indoors.

What are some lyrics to the last song you listened to?: “Save me from the nothing I’ve become…”

Do you ever read the newspaper or get all your news online or television? : I couldn’t tell ya the last time I read a newspaper.

Have you ever watched a meteor shower?: No.

Does the number 8 have any significance to you? : It’s actually my favorite number. I see it often, too.

Who has the best hair that you know?: My aunts and a lot of my cousins. They have thick, long, really nice hair. I didn’t inherit that, sadly.

Have you ever been to an aquarium? : Yes.

Are you currently happy? : No.

What's a reason for your happiness?: —

Is there a light on in the room you're in?: Yes there is.

Do you know anyone that has a birthday today?: Nope.

Have you ever been to a car show?: No, not my thing.

Do you like grocery shopping?: I do. I like picking out what I want and seeing what new stuff there might be.

Have you ever been in a play?: Yeah, in like 3rd grade.

Can you see a mirror from where you're at?: No.

Do you have a large or small backyard?: It’s small.

Do you like blueberries? : I don’t eat them alone, but I like them mixed into stuff like muffins and waffles or in a smoothie.

What's your favorite flavored water?: I like Propel flavored ones and those Ice ones.

If given opportunity, would you go to outer space?: Nooo. Just the idea of outer space scares me.

Do you own a record player?: Nope.

Has religion ever come between you and somebody?: No.

When did you last have an important conversation with someone?: I have a lot of those nowadays.

Does caffeine cause you to get shaky? : Nah. I drink coffee and soda cause I like it, but caffeine doesn’t help me much. It does help take the edge off, but I don’t feel energized. The only time I felt shaky was when I had some Rockstar variety several years ago. I think it was the punch one.

Is there a scar on your body that you can't explain? : Not that I know of.

Have you ever accidentally shut your finger up in a door?: Omg, yes. Excruciatingly painful.

What would you say that most people know you for?: I don’t know? I’m not anybody of importance.

What's your favorite kind of juice?: I actually kinda like apple juice now. I never used to, or any juice actually, but I had a few when I first got here pre-breathing tube and I oddly liked it.

Do you have any stuffed animals?: Yeah, a ton.

What are you up to today?: Apart from the usual, I’ve been visiting with my mom since late afternoon watching one of our shows.

Do you wear hats often?: Yeah.

Do you have any nieces or nephews? : Nope.

Do you own a religious book?: Several.

Have you ever owned a wreck it journal?: Yes.

What did you last purchase?: A couple gift cards.

What was a celebrity you liked as a kid?: Like the popular celebs in the 90s.

What did you last eat that was spicy?: I can’t eat spicy food anymore so I don’t even remember. Damn, I miss that.

Have you ever had tofu?: Nope. It doesn’t look or sound appealing to me.

Would you or have you ever held a snake?: Nooooo.

Do you peel your apples before eating them?: I just would cut them into slices and left the peel alone. Or had the ones that already come that way.

Do you season your food a lot?: I do like my seasoning and sauces.

Do you ever light incense? : No.

Is there anything you'd like to say to someone?: Meh.

What are you currently wearing?: A blue hospital gown.

Have you ever gotten up in the middle of the night just to talk to someone?: Yeah.

What was the last social event you went to?: My brother’s grad party last year.

Do you use the word "like" excessively? : Yeah, lol.

What are your thoughts on horse races?: I don’t watch them.

Do you watch The Simpsons or any other cartoons?: Stuff from my childhood. I never got into The Simpsons.

Do you find tattoos attractive? : No, but I don’t mind if someone has a few. I’m admittedly not a fan of a lot of tattoos or face tats, but that’s a personal preference. You do you.

If you have a car, does it have a name?: —

Why did you last see a doctor?: I’ve seen a lot of doctors for different things a lot while being here.

Do you get light headed after getting blood drawn?: Yes. It’s never an easy task either. They often have trouble and I end up having to be poked more than once. When I first got here both my arms were messed up because of that. Given the state I was in when I came, they had an even harder time.

What did you first think of this morning?: Here we go again…

When did you last cry?: Today. Daily, basically.

What's the funniest thing you've seen today?: Nothing really.

Have you ever been snorkeling? : Nooo. I can’t swim and deep water scares me.

Are you clumsy? : I have my moments.

Do you prefer satin, cotton, or flannel sheets?: Mine are cotton. Flannel is nice, but it gets too hot.

What's your favorite kind of jam/jelly?: Grape and strawberry.

What's on your bedside table currently?: I don’t know currently since I haven’t been home and my room has been rearranged and straightened up so I’m sure some of the things have been moved.

What's the best compliment you've received recently?: The nurses and my family say I’m looking better, but I don’t see it.

What's some things you always make sure to pack before going on a trip?: My medicine and medical supplies are most important and then like my phone, wallet, laptop, and all the other typical things like clothes and toiletries.

What's one of your strengths?: Hm.

Have you ever spent more than $100 on a pair of shoes?: No.

Would you say you're an impulsive person?: No.

What have you last been diagnosed with?: A few things.

What's something that makes you quirky?: I’m not quirky.

What types of cheese do you consume the most? : I love various kinds of cheese.

Do you purchase extended warranties on your electronics? : Sometimes.

What was the last restaurant you ate at?: Probably a diner.

What was the last sweet beverage you had?: Pepsi. Sigh, I miss soda.

Do you believe in psychic ability? : No.

Have you ever won any carnival games before?: Nope.

What was the last fun thing you did?: The last time I went to the movies with my fam. That was when the latest Dr. Strange came out. I would have been seeing the new Thor tonight if I weren’t stuck here. We always go opening day or weekend at least to see the new Marvel movies. I won’t be able to see it until it’s released on Disney+ so avoiding spoilers is going to be pretty much impossible.

Do you wear glasses?: I do.

What song did you last have on repeat?: I don’t recall the last song I was really into and listened to often. I’ve hardly listened to any music the past couple years to be honest, which is odd.

When did you last have pizza delivered?: Some time in May.

What do you normally pay for your hair cuts?: When I went I also would have my hair dyed so it was pretty pricy.

What's your favorite decoration in your place of residence? : All my stuff.

How many computers/laptops are in the building you're in?: I’m in the hospital, there’s numerous computers.

Have you ever been to a rodeo?: No.

What frosting goes best on cake?: Buttercream.

How long does it take you to get ready?: Like an hour.

Do you do some form of exercise daily?: I should be doing arm exercises.

Have you ever won a big prize for something? : I won $100 on a scratcher, ha. I was pretty excited cause it’s just a couple bucks if anything but generally nothing at all, so that was cool.

Do you think it's true that good things come to those who wait?: It can, but it’s not a given. You shouldn’t expect to just do nothing and you’ll get it.

Do you show your feelings?: I can’t hide or downplay them like I used to. My emotions took control over me.

Have you ever held a chicken?: No.

Would you rather feel too much or nothing at all?: I wouldn’t want to feel nothing at all cause feeling good things is good and emotions in general make us humans and not robots. There’s definitely times I wish I didn’t feel anything, though.

Are you hard to please?: No.

What is today's date?: July 7, 2022.

[shortythescreen]

Better.

Summary: The reader has been having a rough mental health week. Their partner, Bloodhound, doesn’t fix it all but they try their best to be there for them. 

Pairing: Bloodhound/Reader. 

Warning(s): Please be mindful going in that there are pretty vivid descriptions of a depressive episode! Including the reader having not showered, not doing laundry, having issues sleeping. Bloodhound is not a ~fix it~ for the reader’s depression but their presence definitely helps the reader cope. Gender neutral reader. 

Author’s Note(s): A commission for my darling @useeer​! He was having a rough time and wanted some Bloodhound being there for the reader! This is very light and fluffy and soft but the beginning IS describing a depressive spell so be mindful if that is triggering to you!

This week’s been rough.

You haven’t done much, which is probably not helping, but… Doing things is just so hard sometimes. Finding the motivation to do things is so hard. Things done without motivation feel empty, skeletal. Like you’re a ghost without legs, floating towards the laundry hamper that has been sitting in the corner of your bedroom for the past two days, clearly overflowing. Your ghostly hands phase right through the basket whenever you try to pick it up and it’s exhausting to exert the effort to make yourself corporeal.

Not that you’re not exhausted already. Sleep has been elusive -- to the point that you’ve been randomly napping throughout the day. At night, you lie away, stare at the ceiling, and think about everything from how yogurt doesn’t make any sense to what if a meteor were to crash into the earth right now. Your schedule’s all kind of fucked up, past late-night gaming, past late-night phone calls.

To top it all off, your legs feel like lead whenever you get up to shuffle into the bathroom. Usually it’s just to take a piss but sometimes you stare at your shower curtain and pretend it’s mocking you. Come on, I know you wanna shower. It’s just a little water. What’s so bad about a little water?

That’s on worse days, though. Today, you’re curled up on your couch, scrolling through Instagram, and, well- at least you got out to the couch. Maybe you’ll even turn on Netflix and put on a show you won’t pay attention to. That’s progress, right?

Sure, you’re kind of greasy, and scrolling through Instagram and watching dog videos that half make you want to cry in joy probably isn’t the healthiest way to deal with your… you don’t want to call it an issue but it feels like an issue. Issues. Whatever, you’re out of your room.

The sound of a knock jars you from the daze you’re in and you lift your head. You haven’t ordered anything recently, so you doubt it’s a package, and most of your friends are busy during the week with work, and school, and… Other things. It can’t be them kicking in your door for answers about why you’ve been so absent.

Your partner, Bloodhound, should still be on World’s Edge. That’s only added onto the shittiness of this week. All you’ve wanted to do is curl up under their arm, breathe in the smell of pine, and wood, and all that other stuff they can never seem to wash out of their skin. You told them so on the phone when you first felt your mood start to spiral.

They promised you that you would be able to do that when they got home. That they would like nothing more than to hold you to their chest, to kiss your cheeks and pet your hair again. The affection they only saved for you they let out over the phone and while it made you feel a little better, it almost made you ache even more for their presence.

But they have a job. Well, kind of. A calling. A duty. You’re not sure what word you should use for Bloodhound’s place as an Apex Legend but you don’t want to undermine it. You know it means more to them than it maybe does Octavio, or Elliott.

You glance back down at your phone. Bloodhound isn’t due back in Solace City until Tuesday and it’s only Monday, your phone tells you. Wonder who it could be.

You push yourself out of the hole you’ve steadily worn into your couch when you hear another quick, polite knock on the door and yeah, that sounds like Hound’s knock. It makes your tummy flutter, little nervous tingles. Maybe they’ve come home early? You shuffle over to the front door and creak it open slowly, squinting at the sunlight that instantly filters into your living room.

“Bloodhound?” You intelligently blurt.

Bloodhound is… dressed down. They’re free of gloves and in place of their helmet is a black, cloth face mask, with the fan logo for when they call upon the strength of their Allfather, or whatever crazy magic they do in order to become the beast of the hunt. They’re not even wearing their goggles – instead choosing to don their rare, round red glasses. The sun creates a halo around them, like they’re a fucking angel or something. It feels like they are.

“My love,” they say, and you can hear the smile in their voice. It makes your own lips twitch up, makes you peer shyly up at them through eyelashes. They open their arms and it’s easy for you to fall into their embrace, to inhale the earthy scent that you’ve come to associate with them. God, you missed them.

They tighten their strong arms around you and while your house is already kind of chilly, you relish in how cool their skin is. You twist your head into their chest, letting their heart thump against your nose.

“I thought you weren’t supposed to be back until tomorrow,” you whisper, voice muddled by the mouthful of their shirt you have. They only chuckle, swaying you lightly from left to right, their nose nudging into your hair.

“I was not,” says Bloodhound, “but I missed you.”

Fuck. You sniff, beating back the tidal wave of feelings that well up in your throat. Your fucking partner is the best. For all they are the beast of the ring, the Apex predator, they are also yours. Finally, you release them, shuffling out of the way to let them inside.

The door shuts and without the sun, you realize how dark the house has been. They reach up, tugging the mask from around their ear and suddenly you can see their plump lips, the gold stud that sits on their cupid’s bow.

“Sorry I’m not more…” You motion vaguely down at your sweatpants, the oversized graphic t-shirt you’re wearing, “you know.”

Bloodhound waves a hand. “You needn’t apologize for such things, beloved.”

You guess it’s not all that much of a surprise to them anyway. You and Bloodhound had spoken on the phone three days into their week on World’s Edge. You mentioned you weren’t feeling great, that everything was starting to feel far away even though you hadn’t moved.

They fold their mask in half, resting it on the table next to the couch. Then, they glide into your space, their presence as welcome as a cool breeze on a hot summer day, or the soft hum of a generator turning on during a storm. They take your chin between their thumb and forefinger and then you meet their copper eyes that you swear are all knowing.

“Why don’t we take today to be with one another, hm? I missed you while I was away.” They whisper and their opposite hand slides over your cheek. You wince. How long has it been since you last showered, let alone washed your face?

Bloodhound echoes your thoughts. “When last did you bathe?”  

You don’t know what face you make but it must not be pleasant because it gives them all the answer they need. The hand that passed over your cheek finds the nape of your neck and they guide you towards their waiting lips, pecking your forehead delicately.

They detangle from you and begin to busy themselves around your home. They pull a towel from your hall closet then they disappear into your room. Less than a minute later they emerge with a pair of shorts and a sweater you don’t recognize right away. Your heart pangs when you realize it’s theirs.

They sling the towel over their shoulder as they return to you and you could weep at their tender eyes, at the way the little smile has never disappeared from their lips. Like they’re happy to be with you, no matter how shitty you feel. Their fingers weave through your own.

“Come,” they insist, and you are helpless to obey. They guide you into the bathroom, setting down the items they gathered in a neat pile on top of the toilet seat.  They pull back your shower curtain and bend over the edge, fiddling with the knobs of your shower before spray begins shooting onto the bottom.

They roll a sleeve up, turning their head to face you as they stick their hand beneath the water. “You will have to be certain it is warm enough for you.”

“Or cool enough. Your showers are hot as hell, Hound,” you say, your lips quirking up. Bloodhound narrows their eyes at you before childishly sticking their tongue out.

“I like to defrost sometimes,” they say and you actually laugh. They beam back at you, gliding over when the water is to their liking and kissing your cheek. “I will be waiting for you when you finish, elskan.”

They kiss your cheek and you sigh, missing their lips as soon as they’re gone. They close the door with a gentle click, and you set to work ignoring your bully of a shower curtain.

The hot spray feels great – though you do wind up turning down the hot and upping the cold just a little. You feel a lot better after you’ve showered. Once you’re clean, you put on Bloodhound’s sweater, and make your way back into your living room.

Bloodhound has tidied up in the time it’s taken you to shower. It’s not spotless, but there’s not garbage sitting on your coffee table anymore and you think you can hear the washing machine running. You’ll have to poke your head into your bedroom to be sure.

“Elliott suggested a film for us,” they tell you from their place on your couch. You hum, shuffling over and flopping into their side. Your arms wrap around their middle and they place an arm over your shoulders. You’re not sure but you think you feel them relax a little more too, like they’re as relieved as you are that they’re back.

“What film?” You murmur, your cheek squished against their chest. They nuzzle their nose into the visible part in your hair.

“Something having to do with cowboys? I believe he said it was a ‘western’.” They say and you snort, your shoulders moving with the motion. They turn their head, resting their cheek on top of your head, and their red curls tickle your skin.

“Are you feeling better, elskan?” They ask you, softly, gently. There’s no expectation in their voice, only genuine curiosity. Maybe a little concern.

“Yeah, a little,” you say. They nod, and the hand that’s been resting on the arm of the couch find yours. Their large fingers wrap around your bandaged knuckles and they drag them up to their lips, gently kissing the tops of them.

“Would you like to talk about your week? You mentioned not feeling well earlier than I was able to escape,” they say. Their use of the word escape makes you chuckle and you shake your head, twisting your chin up to watch them press the backs of your fingers against their cheek.

“No, babe. I’m already feeling better having someone here. And having showered… Thank you for getting away. I know it was probably a pain in the ass.”

Bloodhound shifts beneath you and you adjust, moving into whatever position they’re trying to get you to. You wind up half sprawled out on their body, your legs long on the couch behind your, your chest against theirs as they stare deeply into your eyes.

“I would do anything for you, beloved,” they whisper, like the words are just for you and they can’t risk anyone overhearing them. “I am only sorry I could not be with you sooner. I would have liked to hold you on your sleepless nights.”

“Even if I kept you up?” You whisper.

“Even if you kept me up. Though Artur is quite grumpy when deprived of sleep,” they tell you sagely and your head drops onto their chest, shoulders shaking with laughter. 

[emcon-imagines]

also, i guess this is for telling you *our* most paranormal experience, but because I don't have any: 🌒 what's *your* most paranormal experience? I love paranormal stories a lot, so don't hold back.

OMG ok Clara I have to admit I’ve had a lot of paranormal experiences since I was a kid so I’m going to keep it as brief as possible but...

I grew up living right by the most haunted woods I’ve ever known in my life. My house abutted them and those woods and another set of woods covered a lot of our town/neighborhood. We liked to play in there, building forts, hiding from the older kids, sometimes using it as a cut-home from the middle school when it was getting dark.

When I was six, I was walking my dog by the woods, a little after dark, when my dog stopped walking and started sniffing the air before going completely stiff and staring into the dark. So I turned and saw the silhouette of this massive skinny creature standing on two legs and we STARED at each other for a good moment before it took OFF and I grabbed my dog and ran all the way back to my house. I thought it could be a deer on two legs, but the proportions were all off, and the head shape was all off. Also, I don’t recall it running away on four legs. The eyes were fuckin weird too. Ever since I’ve just referred to it as “the shapeshifter” and it’s the reason why if I’m hanging around those woods late at night, I still don’t like to look too closely into the dark or shine a flashlight in, because I’m afraid of what I’ll see haha

Umm and then when we were like 12 we were playing in the snow behind my neighbor’s house one evening when we saw these two lights in the woods. So, of course, we ran, until the lights emerged from the woods and we saw they were flashlights being carried by two little kids (maybe 5 and 7 y/o?). They were dressed in like winter clothes like from A Christmas Story haha. Anyways, we asked them “where did you come from? where are your parents?” and they said NOTHING and eventually turned around and walked back into the woods, their lights just kind of disappearing.

My roommate just told me “wait tell them about the deaths” and I really don’t wanna get into those, but we have it on good faith that those woods were cursed, both the woods themselves and the people who spent too long in them. I remember coming home from school to see police cars everywhere and a bunch of K-9s and they ended up finding a body where we would play. The other major one is too recent and I can’t get into it but one of the guys that used to be A Character in all of our childhood adventures made national headlines a few years ago for what he did.

There was also a haunted farmhouse near us (it was like two hundred years old) and when the original owner died, no one moved in, so it’s been sitting abandoned for the last 10 years. We used to sneak in there and explore, especially dare each other to go down to the basement, which had this like... face on the wall? In white? It was like the wall decayed Just So and it freaked us out that it sent us running out of the basement one time. When we played manhunt in the summer, hiding in that house/under the porch was a PRIME location because not many other kids wanted to go NEAR the place. Sometimes, at night, we’d see smoke coming out of the chimney, and there was a face we’d see in the window on the right of the front door. Looked like those masks that the death eaters wore in the Harry Potter movies. That house gives me the willies man.

Weird shit used to happen in those woods. We’d build a fort using massive logs it took all of us to raise and set up, and the next day it would be completely disassembled, all the logs in a neat pile. You’d always hear strange noises, and have the feeling that you were being watched, especially the closer it got to dark (we bailed the minute the sun started to go down). It was also a prime spot for partying teens and was a drop spot for drug dealers, so we had a LOT of odd encounters with people in there.

There were always strange lights in those woods. and OMG I just remembered the black helicopter that used to circle sometimes and would freak out my mom (now THAT’S some Stranger Things shit)

umm God one time we were playing and encountered these two pasty white guys who looked identical and were both bald and they stared us down from their car and we were like ??? hello????

OH MY GOD I FORGOT THIS ONE but we had this legend of a guy we called “Flashlight Jimmy” and the legends said that you would see him riding a bike around at night with a flashlight and if he got close to you, he’d ask to look down your throat and wouldn’t take no for an answer. We even had a game called “Flashlight Jimmy Tag” which was like flashlight tag but with the added local flair. so one night we were playing and my brother and I got chased by someone with a flashlight so we ran into our neighbor’s house which was deemed the “base” and everyone was sitting there watching a movie and it turns out we MISSED THE GAME ENDING SO WHO THE FUCK CHASED US

other general paranormal (non-woods related things)

the DREAMS we used to have the most WACK dreams (me especially, that could be a whole ‘nother post) but my brother and I shared the same dream in the same night once or twice. apparently, I used to scare people because I’d have these things they called “spells”? where I would wake up in the middle of the night and act possessed, (like screaming and making faces and shit and then not remember it in the morning LMAO)

I’ve stayed in several haunted houses? One was a house with no service and no clocks and an attic door in my room that opened during the night and the creepiest portrait of this fancy lady on the stairs. another I fondly call the “Jesus house” because my first night there I was going to bed and then realized the owners had crucifixes EVERYWHERE like every decoration had some like hidden Jesus motif.

I saw a UFO with my grandmother when I was ten? Bright, bright ball of light in the sky, we thought it was a helicopter but when we got outside it was completely silent, so we thought it was a really close meteor but then it made a right turn

Lots of paranormal stories were called into my old radio show, some of those definitely had me on my toes when I walked home after my show that night phew

anyways I know there are definitely more but those are all the ones I can think of off the top of my head? ahfakjdhf as you can see I LOVE talking paranormal shit

fireside chat to celebrate 700!

[livia-dovehallow]

shooting stars - gabriel lightwood & cecily herondale

A Gabrily Valentine’s Day! Set in a Modern AU. Read on AO3

Cecily had forced herself to remain cool and collected. 

She shouldn’t be surprised that Gabriel, whom she’d been dating for a few months now, had asked her to join him at the football team’s starlight picnic on Valentine’s Day. There was to be a meteor shower that night; a very unique and romantic night for valentine’s indeed. She may or may not have totally enjoyed arriving to campus the week before to find Gabriel waiting by her first class with a small bouquet of flowers and her morning coffee and asked her to be his valentine. And she may or may not have smiled like an idiot for the rest of the day.

But she most definitely found herself now struggling to keep her racing heart under control. She’d never had a valentine before. Will had always scared off the admirers she had when they were children, much to her annoyance. It was only when she finally became an adult, and joined him at university, that she made it a point to blatantly ignore his protests whenever she went on a date. Not that any of those dates mattered until Gabriel Lightwood came along.

“You don’t have to go, you know,” said Will across from her at the dining room table. She sighed inwardly. If only she hadn’t been forced to live with her brother at university. Her life would be so much simpler. “You can watch the shower with us instead. Much more enjoyable.”

Cecily gave her brother an annoyed look. “Why would I voluntarily subject myself to hanging out with the three of you on Valentine’s Day when I have a perfectly good boyfriend who has asked me to spend it with him?”

Will grumbled over his dinner. “I wouldn’t describe him as ‘perfectly good’—“

“Will,” Tessa sighed, holding her head as if his voice had given her a massive headache. Cecily was sure it had. “Leave her alone. Gabriel is a perfectly nice boy who is taking her to a school event. I hardly think this is grounds for you to be ridiculous.”

“Everything is grounds for me to be ridiculous,” countered Will. 

“Save yourself,” added Jem, looking at Cecily. “Get out while you can.”

There was a knock on the door. Cecily shot out of her seat and grabbed her bag. “I will do just that, Jem,” she said and gave a cheeky grin to her brother, who squinted his eyes at her over his fork. “Don’t wait up for me!” .

For the thousandth time that night, Gabriel made sure his hair was neat, there nothing in his teeth, and his clothes were acceptable. 

He’d never had a valentine before, but he was excited for Cecily to be his. He was excited that she was his girlfriend at all. He was sure he had destroyed all his chances with his poorly developed flirting ability.

He blamed Gideon.

The door opened and Cecily stood in the light of the doorway. Gabriel’s breath went out of him. She was always incredibly beautiful, but it was obvious she had spent extra time on her look that evening. She smiled brightly at him. “Shall we go?”

Gabriel blinked himself back into the mortal plane. “We shall,” he answered, returning her smile. He held out his arm to her, like a proper gentleman. “You look particularly beautiful today,” he said. He had absolutely no idea where it came from.

Cecily closed the door behind her, effectively cutting off her brother in mid shout. Something about having her home early. “Do I not look particularly beautiful everyday?” she asked, a tease in her voice. 

“I should just never speak again, shouldn’t I?”

“I rather enjoy it.” .

The field was spotted with blankets and couples, flowers and chocolates, and quite a few bottles of cheap champagne. Gabriel had ordered Cecily’s favorite dish from the best restaurant in town and carefully tucked it away in the picnic basket Sophie lent him. He swore that his soon-to-be sister-in-law was much more help in the relationship department than his brother was. 

He’d also gotten her a box of her favorite chocolates from a small shop in town, owned by the Branwells, who’d always smiled knowingly at him since the first time Cecily dragged him in, gushing about the treats. He’d become a regular patron after that. 

Gabriel lifted everything out of the picnic basket and glanced up to find Cecily holding out a box wrapped neatly with a perfectly tied bow. He blinked at her several times until she laughed. “Well, are you going to open it or stare at me until my arms get tired?”

“You got me something?” he asked in awe. Cecily only laughed again.

“Of course I did. I am not a freeloading girlfriend, you know.”

Gabriel smiled brightly and took the box from her, eagerly opening it as if he was a child at Christmas. He froze once he realized what it was. “Cecily, you didn’t.”

She grinned. “Oh yes, I did.”

Gabriel lifted the brand new cleats out of the box, perfectly sized and exactly the ones he’d had his eye on for weeks. He’d never even mentioned to Cecily that he’d wanted to get a new pair, let alone this exact one. He gaped at her, his eyes flickering between her and the shoes. “How—“

“I am a fantastic girlfriend,” she stated, her eyes shining. “That is how.”

“Fantastic is an understatement!” He threw the box aside and immediately kicked his sneakers off to try on the cleats. He could hear Cecily laughing beside him as he hurried to tie the laces. “This is the best gift I’ve ever gotten.”

Cecily playfully shoved his arm. “Are you saying you didn’t like my Christmas present?”

Gabriel turned to her with a shy smile. “I was too nervous to tell you that I don’t like seafood.”

“Gabriel!” Cecily gasped. “Then why did you eat that whole plate?”

“Because you bought it for me.”

Cecily dropped her shoulders and smiled at him. “You’re sweet.”

Heat filled Gabriel’s face but the stupid grin on his face remained. “Now I feel silly with what I got you.”

Cecily looked down at the picnic, with their plates and chocolates and flowers neatly arranged. She looked back up at him. “If this is silly, then please, keep being silly.” She leaned forward and kissed his cheek, making the heat in his face grow warmer. “It’s romantic that you remembered my favorites and brought me to a starlight picnic to watch a meteor shower.”

Until he met Cecily, no one had ever called him a romantic before. He quite liked it, actually. And he found that he didn’t care if everyone else knew about it, too.  .

“Look at this!” Will exclaimed, shoving his phone at Tessa and Jem. “I don’t want to see this!”

Tessa rolled her eyes. On his screen was his Instagram feed, of which the most recent post was from Cecily, smiling brightly at the camera while Gabriel kissed her forehead, captioned simply with a heart emoji. She thought it was rather sweet.

Jem had another idea. He turned his own phone toward Will, showing Gabriel’s post. It was of Cecily, surrounded by dinner, chocolates, and flowers, the same bright smile on her face as if she had been in mid laugh. It was a rather good picture of Cecily, indeed. Will scowled.

“This—This is why I don’t follow him!”

“’Isn’t she lovely,’” Jem quoted from the caption. Tessa awed.

“That’s so sweet!” She exclaimed. 

Will’s scowl deepened. “I don’t want to see that either.”

“What?” Jem teased. “You don’t think your sister is lovely?”

Will huffed. “Of course she is,” he said. “That doesn’t mean I want to see him saying it. I may vomit.”

.

A dull roar of chatter settled across the football field. Cecily, after happily consuming every last drop of her plate and chocolates, made herself comfortable in Gabriel’s arms. She liked the feeling; his arms were long and well-muscled, engulfing her relatively small body in warmth and comfort. She was a strong, independent lady, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t allowed to enjoy a bit of cuddling.

She thought about how jealous she’d been of Will for the longest time, having not one but two people he could be with. They were kind to her, of course, but it was not the same as having someone like them for herself. She’d always been a romantic. 

It was only an added bonus that being with Gabriel made Will short circuit.

“Do you believe in soulmates?” Cecily asked suddenly after a long but comforting silence.

Gabriel paused. “Do you?”

“Yes.” He lifted her head gently and slid his arm and a pillow underneath it before laying it back down. “Soulmates need not always be romantic. They can be platonic as well. Some people are lucky enough to find both in their lives. But I think the luckiest ones are the ones who find both in the same person.”

She bit her lip. She was definitely being obvious about her thoughts, but she hoped it wasn’t too forward. Gabriel brushed his thumb against her arm, which was reassuring. “I’ve never thought about it that way,” he answered. “Platonic soulmates, I mean. It makes sense, though. What made you believe?”

Cecily smiled gently toward the stars. “My parents. I’ve always believed in soulmates because of them.” A star shot across the sky, growing closer to the impending shower. “I don’t think anyone else on earth could have been better suited for them than each other.”

Gabriel’s chest rose and fell beneath her shoulder, his arm warm around her. “I admire your parents,” he said, vibrating her body with this voice; and not just because she was laying partially on top of him. “I guess I didn’t think I believed in soulmates until I met you.”

Cecily’s breath hitched in her throat. Of course she had wanted him to say that, but she didn’t expect that he would. “You’re only saying that,” she whispered. 

“Am not,” he retorted. She could hear the smile in his voice. Cecily bit her lip again. A nervous habit. “So many things have changed in my life in the past year that have entirely changed my outlook on the world. It wasn’t easy to learn that my father had cheated on my mom before she died and still be open enough to believe in soulmates. But you…” His arm tightened around her. “I met you. And Gideon proposed to Sophie. And I met your parents.”

“Gideon is quite lucky to have Sophie,” said Cecily. “Sophie is a very lovely person.”

“I know,” Gabriel laughed. “That bastard better not screw it up.”

Cecily smiled and moved closer to him, pressing her body as close to him as she could get while they lay on their backs looking up at the sky. Gabriel shifted beneath her to pull her pillow closer. “Are you cold?” he asked her.

“Ella, Will, and I used to lay out in the fields in Wales and watch the stars at night,” Cecily whispered instead of answering him. Gabriel fell silent, but she knew very well he was listening. “We lived so far out in the country that the city lights never blocked out the stars. It was my favorite time; just the three of us.” A tear streaked down Cecily’s cheek involuntarily. “I haven’t watched the stars since she died.”

“Cecy—“

“I am glad to watch them again,” she continued. She felt around the blanket until she found his hand and squeezed it tight. “With you.”

“She must have been an incredible person. You and your family only ever speak highly of her.”

Cecily nodded. “She was definitely much less of a pain in the ass than Will was.” She imagined her brother now, laying on the roof of their apartment building with Tessa and Jem, watching the same stars she was; both of them sharing the same memory of Ella. “No one will ever replace Ella for me, but I must admit it was nice to meet Tessa when Will first brought her home. She was kind to me. She even helped me prank Will the first holiday she was with us and helped me clean my bathroom when my period came early.” Gabriel’s hands engulfed hers and slowly played with her fingers as she spoke, calming her. “She knew that Will and I were close and made an effort to get to know me; I had forgotten what it felt like to have a sister. I am grateful to Tessa.”

“It seems that even Will is capable of making good decisions on occasion,” Gabriel commented, making Cecily laugh. He shifted again beneath her and suddenly Cecily was engulfed in a large blanket. She craned her neck upward to look at Gabriel, who was only smiling and rolling her into the blanket.

“Are you trying to make me into a burrito?” Cecily asked, an eyebrow raised. 

“Of course not,” he answered, bringing his arms about her once more. “Obviously you are a taquito.”

Cecily called him a not-so-romantic name in Welsh, but her heart was happy. She did feel much warmer under the blanket with her head on his shoulder. She felt at peace. “I understand how you feel, though,” he added after a moment. “Granted, Tatiana is younger, but we were never truly close. And I lost my mother so young, I didn’t understand what having genuine affection was like. I thought all fathers were like mine. I only ever had him and Gideon show me how to be. Gideon was not the same person he is now before he studied abroad.”

“He changed,” Cecily whispered, digging her arm out from beneath the blankets to lay her hand over his heart. “As did you. There isn’t anything wrong with that.”

Gabriel looked down at her; his eyes, his green, green eyes making her heart skip a beat. “Spain and Sophie helped Gideon feel comfortable being his actual self. For me, it was Gideon and you.”

“I like this Gabriel,” she whispered, her eyes flickering between his eyes and his lips. “You’re happier. I like that.”

Gabriel inhaled deeply, his eyes never leaving hers. “I love you,” he breathed. 

Cecily’s heart raced, her eyes widening. She’d imagined him saying those words to her in the privacy and comfort of her own mind. She’d known, perhaps all along, that she loved him. He made her feel special, beautiful, and strong. He never once made her feel inferior or small—his jokes about her height excluded. Being with him made the rough seas of her life calm. She was happy. She loved him. 

And he just told her he loved her.

He had begun to grow nervous at her silence, clearing his throat in attempt to clear the tension. Tell him you love him, idiot! Cecily screamed at herself, but her throat had closed, thick with emotion. She did what she needed to do. She pulled his head down to her and kissed him.

There was no hesitation from him in his response. He kissed her back, his hands pressed gently against her back, holding her to him. Cecily hadn’t even noticed she was crying until their kiss began to taste salty and Gabriel pulled away, his forehead still pressed against hers. “Cecy?” he asked, worried. “I’m—“

“I love you,” she said, cutting him off before he could apologize to her for doing nothing wrong. He stared at her. “I love you, too.”

A brilliant smile grew across his face, erasing his anxious expression. He released a long breath and laughed. “Oh, god, I thought I had scared you off. It came out of me, I’m sorry, I wanted to tell you for so long—“

Cecily shook her head. “Do stop apologizing for telling me you love me,” she teased. “I’ll start to believe you regret it.”

Gabriel’s eyes widened, the panic back. “No!” he said quickly. “No, I don’t regret it! Not one bit. I do love you. I love you. A lot, actually.”

She buried her face against his neck and ran her fingers through his ever-tousled hair. “Then don’t let me go,” she whispered. His grip tightened.

“I don’t plan on it,” he said. 

A wave of awes and cheers rose from the crowd around them on the field. The meteor shower had begun, lighting up the sky. Cecily kept her eyes locked with Gabriel’s. He smiled at her. “I do hope this means your sister approves of me.”

Cecily laughed, the pain of missing Ella and the joy that she had Gabriel in her life to share her thoughts. She turned to look at the stars. “You know, I think she just might.”

.

The porch light was bright when Gabriel walked Cecily to the door of her and Will’s apartment. She was draped in his jacket, despite her protests. “You’re smaller. Less mass. You get colder than I do,” had been Gabriel’s response. She was stubborn, but he could be too. Even now he was refusing to take it back. Secretly, Cecily was glad.

“I had fun,” she told him, smiling happily. “This was a very nice Valentine’s Day.”

Gabriel looked relieved. “I had fun, too.” He hesitated then, which told Cecily exactly what he wanted to do.

“Kiss me,” she said, not as a request but a stern demand. Gabriel’s smile morphed into a small laugh.

“Yes, ma’am,” he nodded and dipped low. The moment his lips met hers, the porch light began flickering.

Cecily ignored it but Gabriel pulled back, amused. “I wager we have peeping Toms.”

“More like a single peeping Will,” she muttered. She lifted her hand toward the door and flipped off her brother. “I suppose I should see you off now, before Will comes out here with empty threats.”

Gabriel laughed. “All right,” he said. “I’ll leave when you’re inside.”

“The door is two feet away.”

“It will make me feel better,” he answered assuredly. “Please indulge my masculinity.”

Cecily would never admit it, but her heart fluttered. She knew Gabriel didn’t care much for keeping masculine appearances anymore, but it set butterflies in her stomach to know he wanted to make sure she was truly home before leaving. Her father would like that.

“All right,” she agreed. She pressed her key into the lock and turned it, but paused before opening the door. She glanced over her shoulder at him. “Goodnight,” she said. “Do tell me when you’re home.”

His eyes brightened. “I will,” he said. “Goodnight, Cecy.”

The door swung open and Cecily yelped. She was yanked in the doorway before she could swear. “Take care then!” her brother called before shutting the door. Cecily twisted her arm out of his grip before unleashing a sea of curses and swears at him, a mix of English and Welsh, all angry and annoyed. 

“Can I not have my own life, Will?” she shouted. “You parade Tessa and Jem around here as if they live here but I can’t even wish Gabriel a goodnight on the porch without you ruining it?” She turned to Tessa and Jem, who remained seated at the kitchen table. “No offense.”

“None taken,” they both replied, lifting their mugs to their lips.

She turned back to Will, who looked a bit surprised. “Mam and Dad like Gabriel, and Ella would have, too. What is your problem? Gabriel has tried to make amends with you and treats me well. Better than well, actually. Not once has he ever made me feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Quite the opposite actually. You’re lucky Mam and Dad help us pay rent because otherwise I would have never moved in with you.”

At that, she threw her keys onto the counter and marched to her bedroom. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of slamming her door, so instead she left it wide open. 

.

Fifteen minutes later, she received her text from Gabriel assuring her he was home, safe and sound, being interrogated by his brother and Sophie. She smiled at her phone. She thought about telling him about her blow up at Will when a soft knock sounded at the door. She glanced up to see Tessa standing there, holding her mug, smiling gently. “May I come in?”

Cecily nodded, shooting Gabriel a quick I love you before tossing her phone to the side. She hoped she’d wake to a similar message in the morning.

Tessa came and sat beside her on the bed. “I’m sorry about Will,” she started. “We tried to convince him to to go bed earlier but he refused.”

“Thanks for trying,” Cecily grumbled, kicking her blanket with her feet.

Tessa set down her mug and turned to face Cecily. “I am not Will,” she said happily. “And I, for one, would love to hear how the picnic went. Did you enjoy it?”

Cecily turned to her and released the tension in her muscles. Tessa really was like a sister. “I did,” she said, a smile growing. “It was everything I’d hoped it would be.”

Tessa���s eyes widened. “I see that smile,” she said, bouncing. “Tell me, Cecily, or I swear I will force it out of you!”

“Shh!” Cecily hissed, glancing at the doorway. “The last thing I need or want is my brother barging in here demanding to know as well.”

Tessa nodded, but her smile and eyes were eager. “Tell me.”

Cecily bit her lip, supressing an idiot smile. “He told me he loves me.”

Tessa grabbed a pillow and began smacking Cecily with it, whispering-screaming in excitement. “Cecy!” Whack. “I’m so—“ Whack. “—happy for you!”

“Wait,” Cecily said, and Tessa paused, holding the pillow in mid-whack. “There’s more. I told him I love him, too.”

WHACK.

.

Gabriel waltzed through the front door feeling on top of the world. The moment the door shut, Gideon and Sophie’s heads popped up over the sofa. “How did it go?” Sophie asked eagerly.

“Did you tell her?” Gideon added.

Gabriel grinned. “Yes, I told her. And she said it back.”

Sophie screamed and jumped over the couch, crushing Gabriel in a hug. “Look at you! A new man in love!”

Gideon smiled at him, amused. “Proud of you,” he said. “Didn’t think you had the guts to actually do it.”

“Thank you for your faith in me, brother,” Gabriel answered. “At least Sophie believed in me.”

Sophie let go of him and nodded, smiling happily at him. She’d always been quite supportive of him ever since he apologized to her for being an ass for so long. “Well, I knew that you would tell her intentionally or not. The two of you are much alike.”

Gabriel and Gideon both protested this statement. Then, Gabriel remembered. “Shit,” he said under his breath, digging his phone out. “I promised her I’d tell her when I got home.”

Gideon pointed at him accusingly. “You’re whipped!”

“And you’re engaged,” Gabriel retorted, retreating to his bedroom, his eyes glued to the screen, typing his message to Cecily.

Ding.

I love you, she replied. 

Gabriel immediately updated his phone screen to the new photo of her he’d taken that night and stared at it before writing out his response.

Gideon told me I’m whipped. He isn’t wrong. Goodnight, Cecy. I love you.

I take requests! Shoot me a message and I’ll be happy to indulge.

@tsccreatorsnet || Let me know if you’d like to be tagged in future fic posts.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #463

“the siren sings a lonely song of all the wants & hungers  /  the lust of love, a brute desire”

Describe the person that you would like to be in three years. I want my mental health to be in great condition, I really want to be in much better physical shape, ideally be living with somebody in our own place, have a job I'm happy with, have an improved social life, my own license and car... Think back to when you first met your significant other (or ex). Was your first impression of them accurate? It's funny, I honestly don't remember what my first impression of Girt was. I don't even recall our first interaction. I'm sure it was most likely that he was friendly, because he is and always has been. What is your most noticeable personality trait? Probably that I'm really, really shy. What kind of natural disaster is most common where you live? Hurricanes. Which of your family members do you resemble the most? I guess one of my immediate sisters? People tend to say stuff like they can definitely tell we're related. Have you ever had an animal get into your attic? No. Who knows you better than anyone else? Hell, probably whoever reads these. When was the last time you started a “new chapter” of your life? I guess you could call dating Girt a "new chapter." I have a much, much stronger feeling of this attempt being more successful than the last now that I've been able to change my angle on how I see him. What’s the most expensive thing your car needed to get done? I don't have my own vehicle and never have. If you had a thousand dollars to spend on a pricey brand you like but can’t really afford (until now of course), which ONE brand would you choose? *shrug* Most products of highly expensive brands I find hideous anyway. Do you still talk to any of your old teachers? Yeah. One is a close family friend and actually our landlord. Does your family still use the home phone or are you all on cell phones now? We haven't had a landline is yeeeeaaarrrrsssss. Ever go to another school’s prom? No; my boyfriend went to the same school as me. Do you ever venture into the woods? What do you normally do there? No; we live in the city now. :/ When I DID live in the woods, I absolutely loved wandering around with my camera for stuff to take pics of. Does your significant other ever make you mix CDs? None ever have but omg I wish that would be adorable. How did you dress your freshman year of high school? I was one of them emo kids. Would you ever date your best friend of the opposite sex? WELP that's what I'm doing lol. Would you say you have a high sex drive or not so much? I'd call it normal? Higher sometimes, lower other times, but not to either extreme. Come with an unpopular opinion. Silent Hill: Homecoming is a great game and while there's a lot of fan service from the movie, it belongs in the series. It's actually my second (or third)-favorite installment. Most of the SH community absolutely hate that game. What’s the worst thing a friend has either done or said to you? A lot of shit Colleen would say if we got into arguments. She'd ridicule effects of my depression, said I'd never know what it's like to pay my own bills, stuff like that. She's hateful as fuck and everything cut deep. What’s fake about you? Like extensions, fake nails, botox etc. Nothing physical. If you got the chance, would you audition for a reality show? No. Have you ever gotten into a Facebook fight? More than once. What’s the cheesiest thing you’ve ever experienced irl? Hm, I'm unsure. Favorite flavor of jelly bean? Probably watermelon. Do you use Tinder? If yes, have you ever met up with someone you matched? No. You do you, but if I understand Tinder correctly, it just seems... really shallow to me. Like don't you JUST see their picture to decide if you're interested or not? It just enforces the false belief that appearance really matters in love. You just poured your heart out to your crush and all he/she does is respond “k”. What do you respond/do? Well, I don't have a crush anymore; my boyfriend and I literally exchanged "I love you"s last night. That's not a crush. But for the sake of the question, I'll imagine I was single and this happened, in which case I would be both hurt and annoyed. Like, either tell me you return the feelings or not. It's not hard. What's your favorite thing to order from McDonald’s? I usually get a quarter pounder w/ cheese or a McDouble, occasionally with a small or medium fry, depending on how hungry I am. When do you feel your sexiest? Never, hunny. What's your favorite emoji? I don't really have one? It just depends on what the situation calls for. What’s your skincare routine? I don't really have one... I just use a washcloth to clean my face. Who all out of your immediate family smokes? My dad and stepmom. Do you like incense or candles better? Incense, totally. Do you respect your parents? Yeah. What’s your bf/gf’s name? It's technically Donald Jr., but since high school, I've known him as Girt, a nickname I won't explain for his privacy. Do you wear glasses? Yeah. Do you like The Beatles? I honestly don't. Except "Hey, Jude." What was the last reason you got excited? Last night. When we were saying goodbye, I was scared to, but I told Girt I loved him, and he immediately said it back confidently. My heart did like five flips. I'm still over the moon about it. Yes, we just got back together, but we've been in each other's lives as a constant since HS, and after changing my angle of how I looked at him, it's not at all platonic anymore. Do you know anyone who drinks the pickle juice from the jar? Sara does alskdjfklwejrl;er Name something crazy that’s happened recently? Uhhhh... I dunno. My life is very uneventful to have something really "crazy" happen. Can you say for a fact that you’re happy right now? I'm happy about some things, but also nervous and self-doubtful. Have you ever zip lined? No, but they look fun. I'd just be really scared of losing my grip. If you broke your computer, would you be able to fix it on your own? Ha, no. Have you ever been on a boat and got sick? No, but the one time I was at the beach and on a boat riding to an island, I was TERRIFIED I was going to get sick because of the waves. I didn't, thankfully. Did you sleep well last night? For the most part. My new mask might just be working. Do your parents try and plan your life for you? Not at all. Do you have any pictures of you kissing someone? Yes. List two things about yourself that you find embarrassing. My weight and how dark my leg hair is. Do you like to cuddle with your pet when you are sad? Yes. Do you find piercing attractive or unattractive? h o t Do you have any secret hiding spots in your room? To put money, yes. Do you like parmesan cheese on your spaghetti? Ew, no. I don't like parmesan. Does your best girl friend have any talents that you don’t? Yeah. She can animate well, for one. And sing like a fucking champ. Do you have any video game systems in your room? Which one(s)? My Nintendo DS Lite is in here. Well, and my laptop is a gaming one. What color eyes does the last person you kissed have? ... Oh WOW I've known this man for a fuckin decade and somehow I'm not sure??? But I want to say light blue? Have you ever taken a ride in a helicopter? No. Have you ever visited hot springs? No. How slowly or quickly would you say you eat? I'm aware I eat too fast, because my mom will point it out almost without fail if we eat in sight of each other. I'm not a messy eater at all, just... fast. Chewing your food and swallowing isn't a complex task. I've made active efforts to slow down, I just haven't been able to succeed. It doesn't feel normal. That and I've come to discover that when I chew food TOO much, I don't like the mushy texture of it in my mouth. What did you do the last time you were with friends? Yesterday Girt and I planned to watch shitty Netflix anime for some laughs, but we wound up starting Attack on Titan, which I am officially pretty into. What kind of cologne/perfume do you like the opposite sex to wear? I don't care if they wear any or not, so long as they know how to clean themselves and therefore not actually smell bad. If you celebrate Christmas, do you get a real tree or an artificial tree? We always use a fake one. Is there someone who means a lot to you but they don’t know that? My sisters probably don't, really... Is money important to you? Live your whole life poor and I want to see you answer "no" to this. Have you ever watched a meteor shower? No. Do you like Slim Jims? LOOOOOOOVE them. Would you rather write a mystery or love story? Love story. Are you muscular? No. Working for it. Do you have one of those removable hand-held shower heads? Yes. Originally, this house didn't, but I hated it so much that Mom bought one. How many burners does your stove have? Four. Has your car ever been broken into? Mom's hasn't.

[ichika27]

TWEWY 07

“Like a bolt from the blue... it’s time for an anime review!”

Not exactly an anime review but more like a reaction post but I dunno what other word would rhyme with “blue” that’d fit. Also I hate that I only realized i could’ve used that line as an intro the entire time and forgot about it until recently. It’s a reference to the game and it sorta fits! *sigh*

Anyways, we’re finally at the finale of Week 2! Spoiler warnings for the game as usual.

The two argue as Neku confronts Joshua once again about his murder and the fact that Joshua is an illegal player. Joshua was able to talk Neku into at least holding off the fight as Neku won’t survive without a partner.

I remember back in the game they did have arguments but it wasn’t super bad and Neku rarely confronts Joshua about the memories and instead opts to wait and gather more info. I guess they had to change that cause they can’t just leave everything to inner monologues and a few actual convo. They had to hurry after all.

Upon getting their first mission in a while, Joshua explains stuff about the routes again as they went on their way. He also explains the different types of Noise: ones that are caused by negative emotions from the RG and those that are under the command of reapers. Noise don’t attack reapers normally but Taboo Noise which is the 3rd and uncommon kind does.

I knew this was gonna happen but they made it look sadder with showing them struggling. I still feel bad for them cause they were really nice people. Sota’s last words to Neku is him telling Neku to not give up and win and get Shiki back.

Joshua wonders why Neku is upset and Neku finally gives his speech about how other people are important. Yeah, Josh... he’s changing.

Uzuki is pissed that Neku and Joshua - players - helped her and Kariya out when the taboo noise were attacking them. Kariya tells her to calm down and thanks the boys.

In the anime, Neku decided to help cause he didn’t wanna see anyone else die. In the game he mentions wanting to help the reapers cause he knew it’ll piss them off lol.

The duo reach Udagawa and finishes their mission. I like watching Joshua use the beams when fighting now. I like him as a game partner cause they were so useful lol.

The mission for the last day: defeat Minamimoto who is in Mark City (I looked it up and its apparently the real life name of Pork City. I guess they can use real names now). Their only way up is through the stairs (in the game it was an elevator and you go to every floor, right? Or was that just in Another Day... it’s been a long while since I played it so I’m not sure anymore).

Also, hello there Beat! They really don’t get a proper fight against Beat, huh? Also, still no Noise!Rhyme. When will they show her? Don’t tell me they took out that plot. Also, this means technically Rhyme’s screentime got shortened in the anime.

It was pretty dark on the way up but Uzuki and Kariya turns on the lights to help the boys as a thank you for earlier. They don’t want to be in debt to the players.

The place is acting strange, too because of the noise and Joshua mentions it’s distorted due to it being the “imaginary space” - a parallel world closer to the world of noise. I guess this is their way of explaining the noise plane, then?

Neku gives Beat the pendant back when they finally reached the rooftop. There’s less complaining from Beat in the anime unlike the game where he asks why Neku is helping him by giving it back. Beat then leaves afterwards.

Time to confront Minamimoto! Minamimoto mentions something about “that time” and Neku gets another flash of memory about his death. Ah! They animated this part! The scene looks close to the way it was shown in the game, too!

Neku is now convinced it was Minamimoto who killed him hehe.

The battle begins and the place “breaks” and they end up fighting in this dark void like area where the platforms are these floating shards. In the game it was just the rooftop if I remember correctly but this is exciting to watch, too.

Also, for those who played the game I ask, you guys remember Neku and Joshua’s level 3 fusion attack? Where they hurl this giant meteor from outer space towards the enemy? That wouldn’t make sense if they did that in the anime, right? I mean a meteor how would they--

They had the shards from that dark plane come together to form a giant meteor-like ball and used it to crush Minamimoto.

They actually fucking did it. They made it make sense in the anime! I’m just amazed holy crap! Sadly it doesn’t end there with Minamimoto making a last attack (we all know what it actually is).

*sigh* Minamimoto just explodes into light in this version unlike in the game where he recites the digits of pi. Another thing they had to rush so they can’t have him do that, I guess?

Joshua: “I thought you couldn’t afford to lose. Give up on yourself and you give up on the world.”

This scene! Finally animated! This pose... ah, similar to the game!

Joshua pushes Neku away from the line of fire and Neku falls from the roof as he watches Joshua get hit. Neku feels awful as he thought badly of Joshua the entire time and now Joshua is gone.

Neku wakes up and the conductor tells him he won but at the same time, since Joshua is an illegal player, Neku has to play for a third time.

Finally, Week 3 next episode, everyone! Ah, so close to the finale. They have like, 5 episodes left, right? I wonder how they’d adapt “A New Day” in this...

--

(I never thought I’d still be upset when we lose internet connection when it happened yesterday and I realized TWEWY will have a new episose uploaded soon)

Ah! There’s a lot of stuff cut out from Week 2 and while I’m still sad about those, the scenes they were able to adapt from the anime were pretty good! The level 3 fusion surprised me so much lol.

I guess it’s goodbye to Joshua for now until the end of Week 3 comes. I wonder if the world he went to still has Tin Pin? lol that said alternate universes are a thing in the story so we could think of the anime as one of those AU wherein things happen too fast and many things from the original game world don’t exist. I hope Joshua gets to experience Tin Pin while he’s away. In the game Josh doesn’t come back until later cause he was too busy playing a kid’s game. Let the guy have some fun!

Speaking of the finale, if they end up adapting “A New Day” (which they have to considering they made the anime to promote the sequel which comes after the “A New Day” scenario) it means the “ending” to the main game isn’t the actual ending. Aww and here I was hoping that maybe, just maybe they could have “A Lullaby for You” play at the end. That song is really good and it fits! Although they might not considering they didn’t carry that song over when they ported the game on different consoles.

Alright... til next time!

[pinkhairedlily]

The Spring He Came Back

Chapter 9 of The Spring He Came Back | 9 of 12

Hitsugaya did not reply to her question about which flowers he needed. Hinamori took the hint that he wasn’t there to buy so what was he here for?

“Are you busy? Can you show me around?”

She wanted to shout in response, Why should I have to?

“I don’t think it’s rational that you can waltz right in here and then ask me to give up a day’s business to be your tour guide,” she replied, trying to be nonchalant. He could have asked Rangiku or any of the three Rs to accompany him so why her? Did he have a score to settle with her? Was this an added punishment? Or was this his way of reconciliation? Was she reading into his actions too much? She eventually sighed. “I guess the youngest Physics prodigy could be an exemption.”

“I was hoping you’d say that,” he quipped, adjusting his glasses on his nose, a new quirk Hinamori quickly caught on. She was crazy to think everything will remain the same. It will never be.

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

They walked together in fragile, awkward silence, held together by the noise of the crowds. She showed him the recent sights in town, reacquainting the stranger with the streets he once frequented before. Eventually, they arrived in front of the library. It was the library where Hitsugaya first discovered his dreams, and it was also the library which was part of Hinamori’s downfall.

“It’s still here, huh?” Hitsugaya shifted his stance ever so slightly.

She overcame her shame and her fear and walked through the library’s doors again three years ago. She was reinstated as its most dedicated visitor and reader but not for reasons in the past. Shunned by the gates of formal education, she relied on herself to learn. That was the only way. Though the haunting feelings lingered, she no longer felt guilt and pain, only regret for her younger, naïve self who did not know better. Teenage shrieks broke through her reverie.

“Dr. Hitsugaya!” “He’s here! He’s the real deal!” “I can’t believe you came back to your hometown. Will you do consultations here?” “Can you sign my copy of your book, Professor?”

Hinamori took a few steps back, wavering from the physical manifestation of Hitsugaya’s newfound popularity. He calmly provided their requests with a charm she never thought he had. It was like he put on a persona so far from the glaring, moody Hitsugaya. When the little commotion died down, they found themselves again in company of the fragile, awkward silence. She was wondering if he wanted to go here to spite her.

“Can we go somewhere else?” he asked. She wondered if he noticed her discomfort.

“Which place do you have in mind?”

They rented bicycles, and she followed his lead. He stopped in front of the science museum which was crowded with onlookers, tourists, and students on field trips. The foot traffic was so bad they stayed on the side walk. “It’s not here anymore.”

He was talking about the daffodil meadow, their yellow meadow of happiness. But she wasn’t ready to talk yet. “Are you back for good?”

Hitsugaya kept adjusting his glasses. “I’m not sure, but I’ll be here for a week. Do you want to go inside?”

It was evident they were tiptoeing and dancing at the brink of each other’s thoughts. It was nearing six in the evening when the two of them stepped out of the museum.

“Um, I’m gonna have dinner with the Byakuya and Unohana. Is it okay if we part here?” She expected too much from this reunion. Of course, their friendship will never survive a decade of disconnection and distrust. Well, at the very least, he was apologetic.

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

Hinamori was washing dishes when she heard spaced out knocks on their door. “Baba, please let me get that for you.” She hurriedly wiped her hands on her apron and rushed out the kitchen, only to find her grandmother chuckling with tears with their evening visitor. “Shirou?”

He covered his face with his hands, blushing in embarrassment. “I forgot to book a hotel.” He wrapped his arms around Baba and hugged her again, the older woman sniffling in return. “I missed you Baba. I hope I’m not an inconvenience.”

“You silly, silly kid. This was your second home, remember? Help me to my room please.” Baba leaned on him for support. Hitsugaya and Hinamori caught each other’s glances, the former asking a silent request for understanding and the latter smiling in response.

When Baba was finally asleep, they opened the sliding door to the patio and watched the spring sky burst into sprinkles of tiny lights. Hinamori offered him a cup of coffee, wondering if it was still the same brew he liked. Their fingers touched on contact, and Hinamori almost flinched as she quickly moved away her hand.

“The hill,” Hitsugaya started. “It’s not there anymore too. I’m sorry we cannot sneak out like before.”

Hinamori almost blushed, but there probably wasn’t any meaning to those words. “It’s all right. I can’t leave Baba anyway.”

That last sentence probably took Hitsugaya back to that night when he got angry and disappointed with Hinamori. It was a matter still unresolved, and she was unsure when was the right time to stop skirting about their past so they hanged around until the coffee ran out.

“I should sleep.” Hitsugaya was standing up when Hinamori caught his sleeve. She didn’t meet his eyes, but she gestured towards the sky now lit up with a meteor shower.

Hoping he was still distracted by the array of lights, she mustered up what little courage she had. “Do you despise me?” She kept her gaze on the night sky, its velvet darkness replacing the fading race of the stars. Her peripheral vision registered pain flickering on his face. He left in the middle of winter, when nightmares were the strongest and ghosts were the loudest. She drowned in guilt and self-pity for a long time until she decided to take back her spring.

Hitsugaya sighed in exasperation and ruffled his long hair. “Momo, I-“ He sighed again, probably phrasing the words in his head on how to deliver this to her in the best way possible. It was the academia’s training, so far from the younger version of him when he used to say anything. “I’m sorry for leaving that way. I needed to.”

“Do I disgust you?” This dull pain was the friend that always followed her at a safe distance, but now it stared her right in the face.

He knelt beside her and gently touched the locks of her short hair. When she turned to look at him, he cupped her face and held her gaze. “You’ll never disgust me, Momo. The me that time will never be the one you would have needed. You were angry at me as well, and I thought you needed to heal on your own terms without me trying to break through your walls.”

“Our friends told me everything. I knew it wasn’t you who ratted me out.” Her hands went to his hands and reacquainted herself with his warmth. Ten winters’ worth of tears and worry brimmed to the surface. “But it’s true. I hated you, the academy, and then, myself. It was a long struggle for me to realize that all the blame stemmed from Aizen, and we all got played. It was him that was the root of all my anger and all my sadness. I was riddled with guilt and fear because I have never truly explained myself to you.”

“You should know I have never thought of you that way. Because you are a good person, and Aizen took advantage of that.”

Hinamori allowed herself to sob in Hitsugaya’s arms. The gates of relief opened and for the first time in ten years, she allowed herself to say Aizen’s name without getting the strong urge to end her life. Probably because she moved on, probably because Hitsugaya came back, probably because it was all in the past. “I just wish you wrote a letter or two, you know. I was worried what you thought of me.”

“I was worried you might not have me.” Understanding what he implied, Hinamori removed herself from his embrace and took off his glasses. They were not graded lenses. She also combed her fingers through his hair, arranging the strands to look more like the younger Hitsugaya she knew and less than the other person.

“I ran like crazy on the train platform.”

“And I almost got off when I saw your face.” He laughed. “But the ticket was so expensive.”

Hinamori hit his arm lightly. “I’m not joking, Shirou-chan. Was it because we were friends? Did they think you also plagiarized your works?”

He sat cross-legged across her and took her hands in his. She was familiar with the rugged terrain of his palms, but hers had become smaller in size and his fingers engulfed her fists in their space. All of a sudden, she felt shy. “The board also found out about our secret room so my mentors advised me to cease all communications. I cannot put you through all that pain again. You did not deserve it. It was better for us that way, wasn’t it?”

“You left for me?”

“If I stayed, the trials would have been endless. Rangiku, Renji, and Rukia would have also been put under the spotlight. Your communication was also tracked by the board so I didn’t write to add to your burden. Besides, it was not hard to find universities outside Soul Society. I’m sorry I was not able to tell you all that.”

She surmised he also had something to do with Aizen’s complete exodus from the academe, the reason why her ban got lifted, and why she was able to remain close friends with three Rs. Even from afar, he was protecting her. She wondered whether the current him would have the present her. She became conscious of her hands still held by his, but she did not remove them despite the intense warmth flooding her cheeks.

“So um…why were you looking for flowers earlier?” Wow, nice change of topic, Momo.

His fingers were mindlessly drifting over her fists, gently tracing the lines, as if he was memorizing them again. He must not have been aware of it. “You know how Rangiku is always at a bar so I guessed and found her there. She gave me the address of a flower shop and told me to get flowers. As if she could read the question on my face. I was looking for you, Momo.”

Realizing what he was doing, he carefully let go of her hands and turned to the side to hide the flush that crept to his cheeks.

“Wow, straightforward Shirou.” Hinamori tried to laugh it off. “Why don’t you tell me your stories?”

“Eh? You might sleep on me.”

“I can always brew coffee and tea. And what do you mean sleep? You were always the sleepyhead between us!”

“Says the one who always slept in the secret room. Was my lap that soft?”

“That was different! Well, it was comfortable.”

“Oh, are you insinuating something else? Hinamori, you bad girl.” He teased her. ”On the other hand, were you insulting me? My lap is not that soft anymore. I exercised to get strong thighs.”

“You are the one insinuating something. My God, you must have a lot of girls fallen in love with you.”

“It sucked having to reject them though. I felt so conflicted.”

“You’re really bragging right now? Insufferable.” Would it be weird to ask him if he has anyone? Not that it mattered to her, she was just curious.

Hitsugaya relented to her request, and they spent the night exchanging stories of their personal journeys. It didn’t escape Hinamori’s notice that he purposely avoided talking about these girls and went on and on about his experiments and his encounters with boomers. Her stories didn’t obviously hold a candle to his achievements, but he listened just as intently when she shared how she built her flower shop business from the ground. She promised he would have his share at the year-end since he was her first major investor, but he waved the proposal away.

Baba found them huddled together outside at the break of dawn, a large fleece blanket covering the both of them, Hinamori’s head comfortably resting on Hitsugaya’s shoulder. She smiled, finally smelling the arrival of spring after a harsh winter.

NEXT CHAPTER | 10 OF 12 | GRAB IT BEFORE IT PASSES

[bladekindeyewear]

HS^2 bloggin’ mainline 2020-10-15

More Homestuck, continuing directly from last time.  Gonna Bang Out A Liveblog Quick (GbOALq)…

No chapter title this time, just straight continuation.  (By the way, I didn’t reblog it so spoilers don’t headline my blog but this post regarding last upd8 is delightful)

> (==>)

Okay, this makes more sense as to why they both disappeared -- Vrissy is either trying to get her back or is going along and just being grousy about it, or one under the pretense of the other or the like.

By the way, if Rose specifically planned in a way that involved telling Vriska to sit on the sidelines and not doing anything, shouldn’t she ABSOLUTELY KNOW, one-hundred percent with a combination of her Seer of Light powers and common sense, that Vriska will Not Do That?  --so whatever Vriska is about to do I’m going to assume Rose has accounted for it, unless she’s like...

...sworn off using her powers much, or something.  That would super suck and I would hate for that to be in this story regardless of themes.

Vriska Maryam-Lalonde, recently "Vrissy," and potentially "You Are So Grounded You Are Never Leaving The House Again," isn’t what’s commonly referred to as an "outside girl".

She likes grass. It’s fine! To look at. And so are trees, as long as they’re somewhere off in the distance, swaying gently in the breeze. Trampling through them is not on the list of acceptable tree activities. Vrissy is already sweaty and dirt-streaked, and there’s probably like fifty gnats trying to drink her eye fluids. At this rate she almost envies Tavros his role as Batterwitch Bait. Sure, he has to pretend to be threatened by Vrissy’s mom, which is lame as hell and also very embarrassing, but at least his eye fluids are safe.

So she’s fine with this in principle, just not with the work involved? Or--

VRISSY: Hey, can you slow Down a Little? VRISSY: I have to run over Shru8s and shit, I can’t Fly! VRISKA: Hah! And who’s fault is that???????? VRISSY: My shitty 8iology I guess! VRISSY: Sorry, not all of Us had SGRU8 Sessions to make ourselves Immortal. VRISKA: Well, we’ll take care of that, don’t even worry a8out it. VRISSY: Lol I wish.

Oh Christ, we really should have seen it coming.  OF COURSE VRISKA is going to get her hands on a copy of the Game and try and have these kids play it, regardless of whatever meteor-based consequences to this happy society.  FUCK.  She doesn’t even see any reason to hide it!

--reading on, some discussion of how people on Earth C view the ability to fly unaided as a sort of religious thing so shot down Roxy’s idea of letting everyone fly.  Why does society always keep trying to shut down Roxy all the time

VRISKA: Really, we have to get you a god tier. That’s pretty much the only solution at this point. VRISKA: Ideally we’d go back to when you were a wiggler and start your training right away, 8ut that’s not exactly an option. So god tier it is. VRISSY: Is that even Possi8le? outside of the Game? VRISKA: Nope. 8ut we don’t have to worry a8out that, once we get back into SGRU8. VRISSY: What???

This is what you get for letting Vriska back into your story:  She starts another meteor apocalypse and destroys your Happily Ever After.  Fuck.

VRISKA: We have to start this shit over again, you have all let it get so out of hand there’s really nothing to do besides a hard reset.

NO.  Fuck you.  You just don’t like hard work.

(I know everything is accidentally going to end up working out “alright” whatever happens, but even if Vriska’s self-aggrandizing malfeasance HAPPENS to be the cause of it, I really, really don’t want her fucking ideology to be the cause of it.  She shouldn’t be Aesma of Kill Six Billion Demons mythology, she’s had too many flirtations with ACTUALLY learning a lesson and BEING EARNEST ABOUT IT to be the selfish chaos at the heart of victory and living.)

(Yes, I recently caught up with KSBD and it’s awesome.)

> (==>)

VRISKA: This is a perfect spot for a fight. An am8ush point. VRISSY: !! VRISKA: Don’t worry about it, that’s good. That’s what we’re looking for.

Vriska leveraging her luck and assuming they’ll be followed when she wants to be.

> (==>)

That’s a really, really damn good waiting-for-an-ambush image.  Pretty hilarious.

(Still having a background mental fit about how this HS2 crew might REALLY be trying to make Vriska the Aesma of the Homestuck “universe” which is just aaaAAAUGH NOBODY SHOULD WANT THAT.  I’ll be really unhappy with the end product of THIS ENTIRE HS2 PROCESS if they pull that shit, no matter what side benefits there are or how happily it ends.  Hell, ESPECIALLY if it ends happily.  They’re having fun elevating her somewhat more than most people agree she deserves but they shouldn’t elevate her TO THAT LEVEL. EDIT3: More discussion on that here if you don't know what I mean.)

> (==>)

VRISKA: This is actually way more fun than I thought it would 8e. VRISKA: 8ringing around a younger, dum8er me. VRISSY: I think we’re 8asically the Same Age. VRISKA: Whatever!

(Fuck you!)  :)

> (==>)

wait what the fuck--

MANDATED HAIRSTYLES?????

what the fuck!???

EDIT: plausible theory here

> (==>)

Vrissy is that fuzzy dice kind what the hell

> (==>)

Circle, fifteen guys, no special significance that i can detect

> (==>)

Oh is War Shit kinda poppin off alongside the whole church thing?

> (==>)

Colorful ship design, weird zoomout frame transition; something wasn’t smooth with that

Anyway is orbital bombardment gonna happen or?

> (==>)

JOHN: vriska! JOHN: i mean, vriskas!! JOHN: where are JOHN: oh fuck

yeap

> (==>)

Is John flying out under the ship away from the house?  That’s really irresponsible.  (And abruptly transitioned, I didn’t realize it happened at first.  KEYFRAME THINGS BETTER AUGH)

--why is that belly button window still there?  I thought we had a line about Harry fixing his outfit, or at least having the capability to, did they not have time to finish?  Let me check, that’s bugging me:

HARRY: plus i wouldn’t have been able to get your measurements for some clothes that actually fit you if we hadn’t come back here where all my sewing stuff is.

Oh GOT IT.  Harry TOOK his measurements, but hasn’t fixed his outfit yet.

> (==>)

JOHN WHY DID YOU GO ALL THE WAY TO THE CHURCH WHO THE FUCK IS PROTECTING THE KIDS

> (==>)

Okay you’re back at Your House instead of Roxy’s house?

What, going to fight the ship or

I mean you could but you’re kind of forgetting what was the most important damn thing a few panels ago you jackass

> (==>)

Is that a bomb or fucking take out??

Why blow up John’s HOUSE that’s just so petty

> (==>)

ka-house

(pretty)

about time John stopped languishing in his childhood home instead of living life, anyway.

> (==>)

(o no i didnt want john to be sad tho)

it’s fine, he’ll be angry next panel or so

> (==>)

UM THE WHOLE SKY IS GETTING DARK???? HOW LONG ARE YOU SITTING HERE AND LETTING THIS BURN OUT???

HOW MANY HOURS ARE YOU LEAVING THOSE KIDS UNPROTECTED YOU GOLDFISH MEMORY CHUCKLEFUCK

> (==>)

APPARENTLY ALL OF THE HOURS BECAUSE IT’S NIGHT NOW YOU ASS

and that’s the last panel

yknow if we are going to have an arc about john learning to be a slightly more responsible parent it would help if it SHOWED HIM LEARNING ANYTHING

GOODNIGHT

EDIT2: Anonymous asked: "I think the whole "John watches his house burn down" is more him coming to terms with who Jane has become. In the last update they mentioned how Rose(I think it was Rose) baited Jane into believing John and the kids were hiding out at his place, and Jane just destroyed it, so he's coming to terms with the fact that she just tried to kill not only John and Vriska, but the kids too."

Oh shit. I forgot about that from the previous update: "JOHN: but rose sent out some false intel about us heading toward my house, so technically this is the safest place we can be right now, since they cleared the area and everything." He really does have to come to terms with the fact that Jane just tried to murder them all, too, so shit is definitely real.

...Which makes the fact that he didn't rush off to guard the kids in response to THAT NEW FACT still pretty galling, but.

[sdottkrames]

@comfortember Prompt 15: campfire

Summary: Tony takes Peter camping to watch a meteor shower

Notes: I adore space. Stars and constellations are so fascinating to me!!

Fun fact: The Leonids is actually happening in two days, and I thought that was really cool, so I incorporated that into this fic.

Also: the song is Jupiter by Sleeping at Last. I've recently become OBSESSED and their album Atlas 1 (especially the space songs) have become my Irondad muse. So enjoy!

Read on AO3: Here

While collecting the stars, I connected the dots

I don't know who I am, but now I know who I'm not

I'm just a curious speck that got caught up in orbit

***

Make my messes matter

Make this chaos count

_________________________________

 Tony’s concentration on the book he was reading was interrupted by a scream from his wife. Even though he was retired, he always kept the nanosuit close by (old habits die hard), and he had his gauntlet up in an instant, ready to fight. Then he looked to the window and saw what had made her scream.

 He rolled his eyes. “Let him in, Friday.”

 “Sorry, Pepper,” Peter said as he climbed through the window, but his laughter made it hard to believe his apology.

 “Don’t do that, Peter! I might not have the heart condition Tony’s always griping about,” she shot a grin to Tony, who pretended to be offended, “but I would rather stay away from one.”

 “Duly noted.” Peter shed his coat and sauntered over to the couch, cuddling up to Tony with no embarrassment. There had been a time that the easy affection between the two seemed impossible, and Tony was forever grateful those times were long past them. He put his arm around the boy, pulling him closer and picking up his book again. 

 “What’re you reading?” Peter murmured.

 Tony showed him the cover, a book on astronomy and the physics of stars, and was surprised to see Peter’s face light up. 

 “I love astronomy!” he said.

 “Really? I used to, but I started to hate it. For obvious reasons. I was hoping that reading about it more might make me hate it less.”

 Peter hummed. “I probably should hate space, too, but it was always my thing with Ben. I guess I just refused to let it go.”

 Tony could understand that. He’d never had any particular connection to space, just an idle interest in it as a kid. He’d started looking down whenever he was out at night, unable to look at the black expanse above him without seeing destruction and death. His experiences in the wormhole were soon joined by red dust and grey ash that seared his skin with grief and guilt. He had even started hating the moon. 

 But Peter was back, and Tony was trying to work through his hatred of and anxiety from space. Hence the book.

 “You know, there’s a meteor shower tomorrow night. The Leonids. I’ve never seen one.” Peter sighed wistfully.

 They continued their night as usual, but the gears in Tony’s head had started turning. He had an idea.

 “What are you planning?” Pepper asked him skeptically that night as she got into her pajamas. “You have that look in your eye you get when you have an idea.”

 “I was thi-in abou ta-in Peer sta-azing.” Tony was brushing his teeth, so it came out garbled and unintelligible, but Pepper spoke fluent Tony nonsense, so she understood.

 “I think that’s a great idea. There’s that campsite close by that we took Morgan to that one summer. The stars were pretty spectacular there.”

 Tony smiled at the memory around his toothbrush, and retreated to the bathroom to spit so he could talk normally.

 “Yeah, that’s a good idea. Just for tomorrow night. You can handle things here, right?” He teased.

 Pepper rolled her eyes. “As if I don’t handle things all day every day.”

 Tony kissed the corner of her smile. “You’re not wrong.”

 ***

 Peter sleepily shuffled into the kitchen the next morning, grunting a greeting unceremoniously at Tony, who chuckled and put a plate with a pile of pancakes and some bacon in front of him. Peter perked up instantly at the prospect of food, and dug in with gusto.

 “I will never understand how you can eat that much.”

 Peter grinned around a mouthful of pancake, his cheeks sticking out like a chipmunk’s and forcing Tony to use every ounce of self control to keep from pinching them. He was sure Peter wouldn’t appreciate that. 

 “What can I say? I’m a growing boy!” Peter took a moment to swallow. “Thanks for the breakfast, by the way.”

 Tony's amazing self control apparently didn't extend to ruffling Peter’s hair. “Anytime, kiddo,” he said. rubbing the kid's curly locks. “So, I was thinking, Pete. You want to go see the meteor shower tonight?”

 Peter paused in his chewing, eyes wide with excitement and disbelief. “What?!”

 “Well, I just figured since you said you’d never seen a meteor shower, and I happen to know of a really good camping spot, that you might want to go.”

 Peter nodded, jumping up and crushing Tony into a hug, squeaking a thank you. The older hero squeezed him gently. “You’re welcome, bud.”  

 After finishing his food and putting his plate in the sink, Peter excitedly ran to his room to pack a bag for camping. It was a quick drive to the site, so they lounged around, watching a movie with Morgan and enjoying lunch as a family before they decided to leave.

 Once everything was packed in the car, they were off. They stopped quickly at a grocery store because Peter insisted on hot dogs. Tony was more inclined to order takeout and eat it by the fire, but Peter had insisted on roasting hot dogs over the flames, and of course s'mores because “what camping trip is complete without s’mores, Tony?” Tony was quickly learning he had no self control when it came to Peter, so he ended up agreeing.

 It was a quick drive, and Tony reveled in the easy conversation and camaraderie between him and his kid. He never got tired of just talking and spending time with Peter, and it definitely helped distract from the slight worry in his chest about spending a night staring at space.

 They pulled into the campsite and Peter stretched as he got out. Tony let him pull out the tent. Being Tony Stark’s, it was no ordinary tent. It was huge, for one; Tony was pretty sure at least six of the Avengers had stayed in it one mission. It also had the comfiest blow up mattresses, and a built in speaker system that connected to Friday.

 Peter took one look as they laid it out, rolled his eyes, and mumbled something about glamping.

 “Yeah, I know, Underoos, this isn’t the typical camping tent. But I saved the world, lost an arm, all that jazz. I think I deserve a little comfort.”

 Peter let out a laugh. “Mmmmhmmmm. Sure. Are you sure it’s not just cause you’re old?”

 Tony gasped in mock offense. “Insubordination. I’m eating all your marshmallows.”

 Peter didn’t look concerned as he hammered the stakes into place. “Uh huh, okay,” he grinned.

 They made quick work of the tent, and even quicker work making the fire. Peter made it a competition gathering firewood, and Tony called him a cheater for climbing up a tree to get some bigger limbs. 

 “Show off,” he muttered as Peter flipped from the top of a tree, landing perfectly. “You’re like a cat, kid.”

 Peter grinned, and they got to work making the fire. It blazed, warm and bright, and they roasted hot dogs and marshmallows as the sun sank lower and lower in the sky. 

 “Oh, Tony, look!” 

 Tony glanced up just in time to see a star streak across the sky, and he couldn’t help but notice it’s beauty despite how his heart started thumping in his ears. 

 A hand slipped into his, stemming the panic. 

 “You’re here. You’re okay,” Peter whispered, and Tony took a shaky breath. “Did you know that shooting stars are little bits of debris from outer space? They enter the atmosphere and burn up. Sometimes they end up falling to the ground, but usually they just burn and disappear.”

 Tony nodded. He had read that somewhere as a kid. Peter pointed to a group of stars.

 “That’s the constellation Andromeda. See that blurry spot in the middle?” Tony nodded again. “That’s an entire galaxy. It’s amazing how we can see it so well this far away.”

 Peter continued to talk quietly, spouting off facts that Ben had taught him or that he’d learned from class. A strange sort of peace filled Tony as Peter's voice swirled with the crackling of the fire, replacing the panic in his heart.

 “Tell me about Ben,” he whispered eventually.

 Peter let out a little sigh. It wasn’t sad, more wistful than anything. “He was the best. You know this already, but he was the reason I became Spider-Man. He was kind, he cared about everybody he met, and he always made time for me. He was my hero.” Peter paused, and his voice went quiet. “He would have liked you.”

 Tony sniffed back unexpected tears. When Peter first came into his life, he hadn’t known what he meant to Peter for a long time, but he’d known he wasn’t the kid’s dad and uncle, and he had been so worried Peter felt like he was trying to replace them or something. 

 “I’d’ve been honored, and know I would have liked him too,” he finally answered.

 “You know, you remind me a lot of him. There was always a huge hole when he died, and you obviously didn’t fill the hole completely. Only he could. But you filled a different hole. You made it easier." Peter squeezed Tony's hand. "You still do. I’m glad I have you.”

 All the fear, the sorrow, the worry, every mess he made and every bit of chaos that came with raising a child was worth it in that moment. He squeezed Peter’s hand, telling his kid thank you without saying it.

 The fire crackled, the warmth washing over them and creating such a sense of peace that, combined with Peter’s hand in his, made it impossible for Tony to feel scared anymore.

 And above them, the stars rained down.

[breakingsomething]

the fall part seventeen - the sky is falling

basic summary: exactly what is says on the tin.

trigger warnings: stabbing, hypnotism

tagslist: @synonymsforzombie @spicydanhowell @skyewardlight @dreaming-of-stories-and-stars @cest-mellow @graveyardlettuce @lower-your-expectationss (i got so fucking close to forgetting the tagslist again but!! i remembered are y'all proud!!)

well, this certainly wasn't normal.

it looked like the sky was made of colourful lava. that was the only way marvin could think of to describe it. trails of thick magma looking chunks falling and hitting the ground, almost glitching but never actually harming anyone. it seemed that none of the nomags could see it, which wasn't surprising, given the veil, but with the way it had been collapsing recently, it had affected them in other ways. the nomags were starting to glitch the same way that anti did, the way everything seemed to do now that jackie has fucked things up. nothing stayed still anymore. marvin was really beginning to worry.

"if it's not hurting anyone, then we're ok," chase said to him uncertainly, holding louise and connor close to him. "right?"

chase had called stacy already, but she had no clue what was going on, the veil seemingly shielding her too. "why can't mama see the falling sky?" connor had asked him, and then the lot of them had tried to figure out why louise and connor could see through the veil when no other nomag's could. chase was certain it was just their blood relation to him, and the reason he could see it was his blood relation to marvin, jackie and henrik. none of them were quite certain how that worked, but they honestly had bigger problems to deal with right now.

the first call marvin had received was from naomi. "have you seen the fucking sky?" she shouted immediately, and marvin pulled the phone away from his ear, wincing. "it looks - it looks like -"

"sky lava?" marvin guessed. "and there's no need to shout, i'm right here."

"sorry," she said, much quieter. "and i was gonna say "fire clouds," but lava i guess i can see. anyway, what the fuck is this shit? is it to do with jackie again? i'm trying to contact lucas, but he won't pick up."

marvin sighed, listening to chase and henrik attempt to reassure connor and louise about the sky. difficult to do when none of them knew what was going on. "lucas was round with us for a while, but he left a few hours ago. he was texting chase not long ago too, so don't worry. i'm gonna try to contact kazuki or someone else from hecate, katy or charlie or mateo, just someone. hopefully we can somehow sort this."

"ok, ok," naomi said slowly. "ok. unrelated, but - i think anti was just round at my shop? asking for your address?"

marvin frowned. "when was this?"

"like, five minutes ago, not even. he left before i saw the sky and called you." something clattered on her end. "shit. so what's up with him? he was acting so weird."

marvin was about to answer when he saw a sleek white car pull up outside, and blinked when he saw who was inside. "naomi, i think i might have to call you back. i'm pretty sure kazuki just drove to our house."

"kazuki?" naomi asked. and sure enough, a tall woman in jeans and a perfectly sized white hoodie had stepped out, making eye contact with marvin through the window. marvin furrowed his brow, throwing both hands up in a what the fuck? gesture.

"yep, it's her," he said, stepping away from the window and marching towards the door purposefully. "i'll call you back soon. love you."

he clicked off and threw open the front door. kazuki was already there, chin lifted and a serious look on her face. "mr mcloughlin," she said. "i take it you've seen the sky."

"i have, yes," he said, raising an eyebrow. "never seen you dress so casually, kaz. the world must be ending."

"ha, ha," she said dryly. "i got dressed quickly. and don't call me kaz. now, the main problem." she waved a hand upwards. "i believe this is -"

"- to do with jackie?" marvin sighed. his eyes flickered to the ground. "it always is, isn't it."

kazuki nodded grimly. "may i come inside? the clouds are on fire and i have gotten three hours of sleep. i may need coffee."

marvin stepped aside to let her in. "i was just on a call with naomi. she actually said the same thing about fire clouds. personally, i think it looks like sky lava."

"naomi who?" kazuki asked, marching briskly through the kitchen. chase, connor and louise looked up in shock, and marvin shrugged, grimacing. "also, that's ridiculous. fire and lava don't even look the same."

"uh, hello," chase said faintly, blinking. "nice to see you here, uh - connor, louise, this is miss kamata. she's a magician like uncle marvin."

at those words, connor promptly leapt from his papa's lap and bounced up to kazuki excitedly. "oh, oh, you do magic too?" he squealed. "can i see? uncle marvin does such cool stuff, he lights his hand on fire and makes cool shapes appear in the air like uncle jackie does, only uncle jackie is way better at it and he can draw glowing dragons in the air!"

kazuki raised an eyebrow at the boy, who was practically vibrating with excitement. "well… i do air magic. i make things fly."

connor's eyes bulged, and his jaw dropped so far his mouth formed a perfect o. "no! way!" he gushed. "that's - that's so, so cool!"

chase chuckled, tapping the table to get his son's attention. "come on, con. miss kamata is busy right now. maybe you can see another day, but not now."

connor deflated. "these fire clouds are ruining everything," he mumbled, slinking over back to his father's lap.

marvin took that opportunity to restart his conversation. "it's naomi gudmundson," he explained. "agrokinesis magician? she's with hecate? how can you not know your own members?"

kazuki had recovered from connor's brief word dump, and was now leaning against the washing machine, shrugging. "i may know her. i recognize the last name, and i doubt it's all that common here. anyway, that's not what i'm here to talk to you about."

"are you here to talk about the the fire clouds?" louise piped up, to everyone's surprise. as soon as she'd said it she snuggled back on her father's lap, watching her legs swing under the new kitchen table. kazuki smiled at the child softly.

"i am," she said. "i do believe your… uncle jackie may be involved in this. are you…" she hesitated, and glanced towards marvin. she lowered her voice. "what do they know?"

"they think he's moved away," marvin whispered. "chase panicked. we couldn't just tell them - it would fucking kill them to find out what he did, so we told them he went to ireland for a while."

kazuki nodded, then turned back to the kids and smiled again. "your uncle might have come back. but… he's a little bit different now."

chase shook his head suddenly. "hey - hey, we don't know that," he said weakly. "he might not be - we haven't seen him since the incident at hecate, how would we know if he was coming back?"

kazuki gestured towards the window. "fire clouds," she deadpanned. "this isn't normal weather magic. it's something to do with the veil and we only know of one person who's been involved in that."

"jackie can't have anything to do with this," chase said firmly, seemingly having forgotten about the kids on his lap. "i've seen his magic, me and henrik both, it was nothing like this. i don't give a fucking shit about the goddamn veil. this is all -"

he suddenly remembered himself and flushed, shoulders shooting to his ears. "uh… don't use any of the words papa's using right now," he said quietly. connor and louise just looked at each other and giggled, bouncing on chase's legs and making him wince.

"i'll take them," henrik said, getting up quickly and clapping his hands. chase smiled gratefully, and the kids happily bounced to their feet to follow their uncle out into the hall and up the stairs to the kid's room, leaving marvin, chase and kazuki alone. a short, awkward silence followed.

"sorry for - that," chase mumbled, not looking up. "i'm stressed and being an asshole. god, i think i'm getting a fudging migraine too, christ."

"it's alright," kazuki said, also not looking up. "this is a lot. i have hecate members attempting to track the source of this whole sky thing, but there… doesn't appear to be one. it's everywhere. although, a few people have told me they are detecting some sort of magic signal somewhere. but apparently that's untraceable too, because of course it is." she sighed, flexing her hands and blowing hair out of her face. "i… i don't know what to do now. and i don't say that often."

marvin bit his lip, clicking his tongue softly. "mm. i - don't know either. i mean… i guessed we just have to wait and see what happens."

and they did. about fifteen minutes of small talk and awkward tea/coffee drinking passed, the three of them politely discussing everything but the weather as, funnily enough, that wasn't a great topic to help distract them from the issue at hand. however, they were all surprised to hear someone knock at the door, breaking the silence. marvin looked to the others for confirmation on what to do. both of them shrugged. marvin rolled his eyes and cracked the door slightly, startling when he saw who it was on the other side.

"anti," he sighed, breathing out slowly. "not sure who i was expecting. this is a bad time, man."

anti just raised his eyebrows. he looked worse off than when marvin had last seen him: hair yanked behind his ears, a bruise on his cheek, yellow scarf even more dirty looking. "i take it you've seen the sky lava?"

marvin gave a small, disbelieving laugh. "i fucking knew it looked like lava! kazuki, chase and henrik are saying it looks like fire -" he caught himself. "anyway. yes, i've seen it. kinda hard not to, wouldn't you say?"

anti shrugged. "i don't know, i'm partially colourblind and didn't notice until the bloody meteors or whatever started falling. speaking of, the things might not hurt, but they are very annoying. can i come inside?"

marvin threw his head back and sighed. "this shit again? seriously? i said it was a bad time." he wasn't sure letting anti in while the kids were here was a good idea, even though they were upstairs with henrik and most likely wouldn't hear or see anything. "can't you… i don't know, go bother… whoever it is that you bother when you're not fucking with us?"

"whatever people i bother when i'm not fucking with you are dead," anti signed flatly. his eyes flickered from an orangey brown to a dark blue, and marvin resisted the urge to step back. for a moment, he looked just like jackie. "i don't have shit else to do, and as much as i despise coming to you for help, i don't have much of a choice these days, do i?"

marvin suddenly frowned. "man, are you ok?"

anti blinked. "why?"

"i - you're shaking," marvin pointed out. "i don't know, you just… kind of look like you're in the middle of a panic attack."

anti scoffed and rolled his eyes despite how pale he had gone. marvin could hear his quick, laboured breaths from where he was standing. "no," he signed, like marvin was being ridiculous. "i'm fine. let me in, bitch."

marvin didn't believe him. but if henrik was upstairs, he figured it should be ok. first, he had a question. "why were you bothering naomi?"

anti frowned. "i... wasn't?"

"yes you were," marvin said. "she said you were just round at her shop."

"was not," anti scoffed. "i was halfway across town. walked all the way here. now let me in, i'm not used to feeling human temperatures and it's bloody baltic out here."

marvin sighed and finally stepped aside to let him in. anti slipped past and immediately froze, eyes wide and pupils dilated, fixed on kazuki still leaning on the sideboards. his hand immediately flashed to his side, bringing out a small switchblade and holding it out in front of him.

"woah - woah, anti, put it down!" marvin cried, jumping between him and kazuki. "she's not here to hurt you, we're just trying to figure out what's wrong with the sky, nothing more, ok? let's just - calm down, ok?"

anti didn't move. despite his uninterrupted trembling, his hand was steady on the knife. kazuki had barely flinched at his reaction, and stayed very still so as not to alarm him. "i'm just here to help marvin, anti," she said gently. "i'm not planning to hurt you, even after your little escape. i swear. i know you've been through a lot, and i'm not going to make it any worse for you. if it helps any, i'll stay right here so i won't scare you."

anti's face contorted with anger, but he couldn't sign while holding the knife, and after a moment he flipped it closed and put it back in his pocket, not blinking. "you don't fucking scare me," he spat once he'd freed up his hand. "you're just another pathetic fucking magician who relies on others to do your work for you. i could kill you even without my magic and the use of one of my hands."

marvin didn't translate any of that. "ok, so now what?" he said instead, glancing out the window behind kazuki's head. "sky's still going and we don't know why. kaz - kazuki, are you sure you don't know anything?"

she sighed, closing her eyes for a second. "sit down," she said, gesturing towards the table and pulling out a seat for herself. "i might be able to try and explain."

marvin sat down across from her and chase, who was on his phone and had been silent this whole time. he turned round to see anti still hovering hesitantly, hands hanging in the air. marvin pat the seat next to him. "you can sit down," he said, trying to keep his voice light. anti slowly shook his head, eyes darting back and forth to the door behind him, and marvin decided it'd be best to leave him be.

kazuki cleared her throat. "so. that necklace your brother has… i recognized it before i even saw it for that split second in new romney. i'm not sure of its actual name, but i am aware of its uses. i believe… it's some kind of soul holder."

everyone went very quiet for a moment, until marvin spoke again. "ok. please elaborate."

kazuki took a breath, tapping the table with her fingernails. "well. many years ago, there were all sorts of black magic artifacts that were used to enhance, give or take power. those who later split from hecate wanted to use that magic. we - the rest of us told them it was a bad idea. eventually, when the split happened, we took as many artifacts as we could and destroyed them." she let out a small sigh, closing her eyes. "it seems that some were… left. i'm not sure how many they still have, but jackie has gotten a hold of one and given his lack of previous black magic use, it seems that it's becoming too much for him to handle."

"you said soul holder," chase suddenly said, the first words he'd spoken since anti had arrived. he rubbed his temple, wincing. "are there… different types of these artifacts? and how do you know this one does, uh, whatever you think it does?"

she nodded grimly. "there's a few types, yes. some destroy. some kill. and some… do what your brother's one does. i believe that it takes souls into the necklace and, well, holds them there." she leaned her head back, sighing. "i can't think of a better way to explain it except that it's… hundreds of years old. who knows what types of magic has been contained in it? what people? we have no idea how powerful he could be."

anti suddenly clapped his hands, drawing their attention to him. "so hold on," he signed, still using the one hand. "this bitch has stolen a part of my fucking soul and that's how he's using my magic?"

kazuki looked to marvin, who loosely translated for her. once he'd finished, she sighed and glanced up to anti again. "i'm afraid so," she said. "from what i've seen, that's all it could be. i'm very sorry."

"motherfucker," anti signed, which marvin chose not to translate.

just then, they heard loud yelling from upstairs, and two sets of pounding footsteps racing down the steps above. "papa, papa!" the voices of two children cried, giggling all the while and getting louder as they got closer. "papa, uncle henrik just showed us something super cool, look, look -"

the children ran into the kitchen, laid eyes on anti, and froze.

anti didn't move.

there was a long moment where connor and louise just stared at him, confused looking. marvin held his breath, making eye contact with chase across the table. neither man said a word.

it was connor who eventually spoke. "uncle jackie?"

henrik appeared in the doorway behind them and also froze. "christ, him again?"

"oh!" louise suddenly shouted. "it's the london man!"

"oh yeah!" connor cried, grinning. "the man who wasn't papa who took us to london!"

"took you to london?" kazuki said, frowning. "what do you mean?"

"we're seriously just going to let him in yet again?" henrik said angrily, glaring at marvin. "seriously? after all the times we agreed not to trust him?"

"listen, i didn't want to," marvin argued. "but in case you hadn't noticed, circumstances are slightly different now -"

"can everyone just shut up?" chase suddenly cried, clutching his head and leaping to his feet. "i have a bloody migraine and god, you're all so fu- so loud, christ, i'm…" he shook his head and marched over to the door, grabbing a brown jacket off the coat rack. "i'm going for a walk or something, fire clouds and sky lava be damned. i don't… i'm done with this." he turned to face the room, which had gone very quiet. his eyes landed on henrik. "henny, will you come with?"

henrik hesitated, glancing at the kids. "it's - i don't know if it's safe, and -"

"i'll look after the kids," marvin said quickly. he smiled at chase reassuringly, who smiled back. "be safe out there, if you really have to go out. and be back within, like, ten minutes, preferably. please."

"we will," chase said gratefully. he opened the door and stepped outside. "thanks, marvy."

marvin flinched at the name. only jackie calls me that, he thought, but chase and henrik were gone before he could say a word.

-

"so where are we going?" henrik asked, practically jogging to keep up with his brother. chase was walking very quickly, which worried henrik slightly, especially given that he'd said he had a migraine. however, he brushed off his concerns with a small laugh. "slow down, chaser. i'm not in the mood to - ha, to chase you."

he could tell something was wrong when chase didn't laugh at his pun. "sorry," chase mumbled instead. "i'm just… feeling weird. i don't know… it's too much."

henrik slowed, heart suddenly racing. "uh, chase? i think we should go back. if you're feeling this unwell -"

"no," chase interrupted, and it sounded almost like a sob. his eyes were oddly dark. "no, i can't. don't - leave me."

he sped up the pace, leaving henrik to race after him. "chase - wait!" he cried. what was happening, why was he acting so strangely? he got the feeling this wasn't a normal migraine at all. "chase, slow. where are you going? chase!"

they rounded a corner, and chase suddenly stopped dead. his expression had gone totally blank, eyes wide and unfocused. his mouth was hanging open very slightly, hands dropped by his side.

henrik waved a hand in front of his face, breathing quickening. "chase? bruder? hello, are you -"

"henrik," came a voice from behind him. henrik's blood suddenly ran cold. "you're just in time for the show."

-

this was beginning to get very awkward.

marvin had attempted to usher the kids back upstairs, but that would leave kazuki and anti alone in the kitchen, which not only was a horrendous combination of people to leave alone, but was very rude to do. so they were now sitting in the living room watching octonauts on the tv, with marvin dithering in the doorway between the kitchen and the hall, trying to keep everything and everyone together. thankfully, connor and louise had stopped questioning anti's presence as soon at the familiar theme tune had started playing, leaving marvin to mostly focus on the other two. anti was pacing the kitchen ignoring kazuki, who was trying to talk to him. it was starting to become slightly annoying.

"is your arm still hurt?" kazuki was saying, as anti pretended he was suddenly deaf. "i can try to help if you'd show me it. we have healers in hecate - in fact, isn't your brother a healer? the doctor?"

"not my brother," anti suddenly signed. he flipped his hood up over his head, turning his face away from them. "fuck off, gods. always in other people's business."

there was a sudden noise from outside. a bang, like an explosion. kazuki stood and followed marvin to the window, looking outside to try and figure out what it was.

"i don't see anything," marvin muttered. the sky looked the same, and nothing seemed to be out of place. "what the fuck?"

"uncle marvin?" connor called from the other room. "what's going on?"

another bang sounded, and this time they could see a plume of black smoke rising over the buildings not far off from where they were. "ah, crap," marvin hissed, hands flying to his hair. "chase and henrik - we have to go after them, they could be in trouble."

kazuki shook her head. "the little ones," she reminded them. "we can't leave them alone."

connor and louise had padded into the hallway to see what was happening, eyes wide. marvin hesitated. he needed to make sure henrik and chase were safe, but he could need kazuki's help, and anti obviously couldn't stay with them. "oh - i don't know!" he despaired. "i - i have to see they're ok."

"papa and uncle henrik?" louise said softly. she was clutching her sonic teddy in her hands, her bottom lip quivering. "we wanna go make sure they're ok too! did the sky dragons get them?"

marvin glanced back into the kitchen at anti, who had stopped pacing and was staring out the window in there, and then back to kazuki, who looked slightly worried. he hesitated. "kazuki - can you stay here with them?"

"me?" she sounded shocked. "i - i am the leader of hecate's international network of magic, and right now there is magic related events happening that i need to -"

"please, kaz?" marvin turned to her with wide eyes, pleading. "just for a little bit? please, i'd owe you so so much, i just can't leave them alone, kazuki…"

kazuki inhaled sharply, then blew the air out her cheeks, groaning. "fine! you better not be long. i don't think i'm all that good with kids."

marvin threw his arms around her briefly, grinning. "thank you so much, kaz, i owe you!" then he turned to the confused looking kids, smiling at them. "kazuki is going to look after you two for a little bit, ok?"

"can we see the magic?" connor gasped. he grabbed louise's hand, squealing. "louise, we get to see the magic!"

kazuki laughed nervously, making a face in marvin's direction. "yes, i can show you some magic. let's go in here, uh - the living room, yes? what's this playing on the tv?"

marvin took the opportunity to leave, pausing at the door to look at anti. "well? are you coming?" he asked. anti jumped, and marvin raised an eyebrow. "come on, i'm not leaving you here alone."

anti shrugged, but followed him out the door, marvin locking it shut behind him. the smoke plumes were rising even higher, and the resounding booms were still sounding from not far off. "fucking hell," marvin muttered. anti glitched in agreement. "let's hurry up and -"

"marvin! marvin!"

he recognized the sound of chase's voice immediately. "chase!" he raced down the pavement, struggling not to slip as he followed his brother's voice. "chase, chase - shit!"

because fuck, jackie was standing in the middle of the street with aaron by his side, henrik and chase standing in front of them and staring blankly, eyes black and unfocused. it was such a scene that all marvin could do was stare. taking it in. his brothers, hypnotized, standing in the street, just… here. he couldn't breathe.

anti made a loud choking noise at the sight of jackie, taking an unwittingly step away. jackie smirked at him. "aw, anti, good to see you again. are you seriously afraid of me now? i thought you were above fear, isn't that what you told me once?" he laughed, and turned to marvin. his black eyes flashed coldly. "hello, marvy."

"jackie," marvin blurted. his chest tightened, taking in his older brother's form. his hair was shorter, almost as short as henrik's, and he was wearing a black jacket over a dark grey hoodie. so unlike his normal colourful clothing. it made marvin's head spin. "jackie, what have you done to chase and henrik? let - let them go, please."

jackie inhaled, dragging out his breath and tilting his head back. the silence was fucking deafening. all marvin could hear was the blood rushing in his ears and the silent, agitated hum of static rising from anti's direction.

"i can't do that," jackie said softly. "i have to protect them. from him, and apparently... from you."

marvin's heart stopped. "what do you mean?"

jackie laughed harshly. "look at you. you're with him, aren't you?" he nodded towards anti, a look of disgust crossing his face. "this pathetic, glitching mistake of a being who's brought nothing but harm on our family, and you want to befriend him. clearly, henrik and chase aren't safe around you if you're willing to put them in such constant danger."

"you're - you're more of a danger to them than anti is right now," marvin stammered, trying to keep his voice steady. "jackie, this isn't you. you're not like this. please, listen -"

"i don't think it's up to you to decide who he is, magician," aaron interrupted. he was leaning on a bright blue bat, grinning cheekily. like this was a game. marvin didn't spare him a breath, keeping his eyes trained on jackie.

"this is… the black magic talking," marvin faltered. his hands felt very warm. he hadn't used any magic since he'd nearly hurt chase, and he was suddenly scared. "jackie, this is the black magic talking. we - we can get it out of your head! we can! you - we - this can be fixed, ok? just let our brothers go and we can help you."

jackie's expression softened. "marvin," he murmured, and marvin took a shaking breath, hope rising in his chest. "oh, marvin. i'm so sorry. you… you really believe in me, don't you?"

anti growled, the sound of static spiking. jackie grinned at him, and for a moment marvin couldn't see him any differently than the man who had always been so sweet to him, the man he'd called his brother. then it vanished, and jackie was a stranger, sneering at anti's rising rage. "i did miss you, aiden. five months is a lot of time to bond! we were so close, wouldn't you agree?" he laughed, a real, loud laugh. "and put the butter knife away, unless you're planning to make toast."

marvin had been so thrown by the "aiden" comment that he hadn't noticed anti taking out his switchblade again. it took a second for marvin to register what anti was about to do, and by then it was too late. "anti, no!"

the knife was flying towards aaron's face before marvin could blink. but the man was ready; his bat was raised to his face to block the blade in an instant, a swoop of magic covering his body. jackie stepped forwards and threw his arm up, creating a black shield to cover for anti's sudden attack.

"stop it!" marvin screamed as anti kicked out at jackie's shield, knocking him off balance. aaron immediately lunged for anti while his back was turned, and marvin made the split second decision to throw out a burning hand and shove aaron back, standing between the two of them.

aaron flashed a white grin. "you don't have to be involved in this fight. really, just let us take the glitch and you and your brothers are free. why is that such a hard decision?"

marvin gave a breathy laugh. "oh, i wish i knew," he said, and let the magic in his body loose.

he had been so afraid of this. of his magic exploding the way naomi's had. but now, he suddenly hated everything about this man, this smirking blonde idiot who'd helped take jackie away from them. he hated him and his magic reflected that. great swirls of concentrated power that wrapped around aaron and squeezed him, making him gasp. but it didn't last. aaron lashed out, and a solid black whip hit marvin in the face, burning into his skin. he screamed in agony, dropping his own magic to fight against the pain. aaron laughed and knocked marvin's legs out from under him, kicking him down to the ground.

he could see anti fighting - trying to fight - against jackie above him. jackie had seemingly overpowered him easily, lifting him into the air without even touching him. "pathetic!" he giggled, darkness trailing down his skin from his eyes and hands. "aiden, aiden, you used to be so powerful. what happened to you? oh, wait." he tossed back his head and roared with laughter. "i did, didn't i? it's funny, cause i'm powerful enough without your weak ass magic in my body. i don't even need it. but i truly do enjoy the irony of being able to do - this!"

a glitch ran through jackie's body and through his wall of magic, reaching anti and throwing him to the ground like a ragdoll. he slammed to the road beside marvin, crying out as his back cracked. aaron turned to jackie and straightened, his boot digging harder into marvin's chest.

"well, that was easy," jackie joked, grabbing aaron's hand. the two of them laughed for a second, and marvin managed to slowly turn his head and make eye contact with anti. turquoise eyes meeting brown. it reminded marvin of the day he'd freed anti from the music shop basement, of the exact moment jackie had discovered that marvin knew. the shared moment, the single shared thought.

we're fucked.

but they'd gotten out of that situation. and how had they done that? oh, oh, shit. he remembered. he remembered.

"now what?" aaron said, as he and jackie leaned over them. anti weakly tried to get up, and aaron whacked his chest with his bat to make him fall back. jackie grinned at him, the two sharing a knowing smile.

"well, now i take the glitch and…" his expression wavered as he looked at marvin. "well, he can go, i guess. all we need is this guy!" he kicked anti's side again. "hear that, marv? you're home free."

he clicked his fingers, and marvin heard chase and henrik both gasp, collapsing to the floor. he'd almost forgotten they were still standing there, black eyed and hypnotized. hopefully they now wouldn't be conscious enough to see what he was about to do. "come on, anti, up you get!" jackie said cheerfully. he reached down and grabbed anti's right arm, delighting in his pained cry. "oops, almost forgot you were still injured! almost. right, let's go -"

"you forget a lot," marvin spat. jackie's head snapped round to look at him, and marvin scowled. "you get on at me for not noticing shit, but hey - i can at least remember what types of magic my brothers specialize in."

jackie didn't manage to get another word out before marvin unleashed a wave of the magic he said he'd never use again. his own black magic. not as strong as jackie's, but he knew how to control it better, and it was just enough to shock him and aaron away, leaving marvin a gap to leap to his feet and fight back again.

a second chance, he thought. don't waste it, marvin.

aaron made an instant dash for anti while jackie went for marvin, but he was too quick for them this time. a fiery shield rose up in front of him, and marvin managed to reach out a hand to yank anti up before one of them got to him again. "you ok?" he asked quickly, and anti managed a nod despite the clear pain he was in. marvin nodded back. "good. stay back."

more magic. so much of it, marvin wasn't sure whose was whose anymore. aaron was the one he was concerned about; he clearly had far more control and practice with his magic, and was forcing marvin back with hit after hit of his crumbling black whips that arched from his bat like a wicked extension of himself. marvin couldn't seem to take him out. he panted, cursing under his breath, beads of sweat dripping down his face from the exertion of the fight. he couldn't take them both at once. he wasn't sure he'd even be able to just take jackie if he had to. he couldn't do this, he couldn't, he just couldn't -

and then aaron fell back with a gasp, all his magic dropping at once. and anti, pale and shaking but grinning smugly, yanked the knife he'd picked up out from his back.

"butter knife," he signed painstakingly with his bruised right hand. "how's that for butter knife?"

"shit -" jackie gasped, but marvin hadn't let the distraction pass him by, and cried out a spell that froze jackie to the spot, wrapping him in a tight rope of magic. the spells were so exhausting that he almost passed out then and there - he hadn't used dark magic in so long, and it had really drained him. luckily, anti scrambled to his side and grabbed his arm, keeping him upright. his hands were stained with blood. marvin watched as aaron fell to his knees, clutching at his chest in pain.

"bastard," jackie spat, writhing to free himself of marvin's bonds. his eyes had melted back to their original blue, and they were wild, focused on aaron now groaning on the ground. "bastard, bastard, let me go, don't you dare hurt him! you have no idea what you've done! no i̢d̸ea ͝at all!"

jackie let out a frustrated scream, tearing at the ropes with both restrained hands. anti and marvin glanced at each other, stepping back silently as blackness seeped out from jackie's chest and began to form into a solid shape in front of him. marvin held up a protective arm in front of anti as something began to create itself, the magic knitting into the shape of what looked to be a person. over the roar of magic, they could hear jackie laughing. "this one's for you, anti!" he cackled. "have you missed him?"

and oh, oh, oh shit. it was a person. a real person who had formed from jackie's magic, a man with curly black hair and blank brown eyes, staring ahead at nothing. marvin heard anti's breath hitch at the sight of him, and a single look at him showed he'd somehow gone even paler, mouth hanging open slightly in disbelief.

"that's right!" jackie cried, looking pleased despite his current situation. "i've seen your memories, anti, i've seen -"

and then marvin saw -

"you're… you smell like magic," came a voice. it was him, the curly haired man, speaking with a warm scottish accent. "harsh, like fire, or an overheating computer." he snorted, trying to keep eye contact with - with anti, because anti was there, different looking. no scars on his face, no scar on his neck, hair much shorter and a dark green colour. "do you do magic?"

and then both of them were sitting in what looked like a park, eating sausage rolls out of paper bags, two guitars abandoned on their laps as they talked faintly, eyes sparkling. "you're a dumbass!" anti laughed, and marvin had never seen him smile so genuinely before.

and then they were sitting very close to each other on the floor in a dark room, a song playing in the background as their faces touched, eyes closed and lips brushing -

"stop!" marvin yelled, struggling to shake himself from the memories. anti had all but collapsed, clinging to marvin's arms and shaking badly, terror and anger both making rounds on his face. "stop, how - jackie, stop, why are you doing this?"

marvin's magic had faltered, leaving jackie to step out of the bonds and fall to aaron's side. he lifted him in his arms, looking worried, feeling the blood on the man's back. "because he ruined our lives!" jackie screamed, and his eyes had turned black again, tears gathering in them as he clung to aaron's unconscious body. "how, how can you stand to be near him? he deserves to be hurt!"

the curly haired man hadn't moved since jackie had formed him, but now he was crumbling, dissolving into black dusty magic and retreating into jackie's body. like he had been there for nothing but show. through it all, marvin could still see chase and henrik, passed out on the road. at least they were safe. at least there was that.

"please," marvin croaked in a weak last ditch attempt to stop this. "jackie, you're my brother, i love you, i don't want to hurt you."

"you see good in anyone," jackie whispered. the sky above was almost screaming now, the colours beginning to whirl above jackie's had. despite the noise, marvin could still clearly hear his brother's voice. "even him. even me."

marvin was about to say something - something, anything, he wasn't sure what - when he stopped, listening, smelling the sharp scent that was suddenly filling the air. like a storm, like rain. judging by the look on jackie's face, he could smell it too. he stood unsteadily, lifting aaron in his arms. "what the fu-"

the black magic still lingering in the air parted. silver sparks clearing the air, even clearing the sky above, warming everything and bringing about that smell, the smell marvin realized was familiar. he gasped, almost laughing as jackie whirled round, looking to see who it was who dared to challenge him.

a man. messy dark hair and freckled skin, a mustache underneath his nose. a dark blue hoodie hanging off of him. eyes that glowed silver, hands that glowed silver, magic that stayed suspended in the air, silver. the world seemed to stop.

jameson jackson.

"you again," jackie spat. he couldn't even raise a hand to defend himself with both arms wrapped around aaron, who had stirred slightly and was moaning in pain. "my god, don't you get a hint?"

jamie raised a hand in front of him, not saying a word. the threat hung in the air along with the silver particles of solid magic that carried the weight of time in them. he looked so tired. he looked so powerful. marvin almost wouldn't have recognized him.

jackie growled softly, looking back and forth between marvin, anti and jamie. he seemed to realize how outnumbered he was, and shrank back, hoisting aaron higher in his arms. "watch your backs," he hissed angrily, eyes blazing. then he was gone, really gone.

anti pushed himself off of marvin, swaying on his feet. he couldn't take his eyes off jamie, who had lowered his arm and let his eyes return to their usual grey. he was staring back. for a long moment, the two just stood there, unmoving. afraid to break the year long silence.

"jamie," marvin suddenly said. and it was hitting him now that this was really him, his little brother, the artistic time traveler who he hadn't seen in so long, who had just disappeared without a trace. "jamie, oh my god, jamie!"

he raced past anti and threw his arms around jamie, muffled sobs escaping his lips as he buried his face in the smaller man's shoulder. jamie hugged him back tightly, and then pulled away with a huge grin. "marvin," he signed. "it's you."

he looked over marvin's shoulder and frowned, pulling the magician over to chase and henrik, who were now starting to regain consciousness, eyelids flickering. "jackie did this?" jamie signed, concern flickering across his face. "help me, we have to take them home. they should be ok, but just to make sure."

marvin had so many questions he suddenly wanted to ask. but he instead lifted chase into his arms, helping him stand while jamie did the same with henrik. questions could wait. jamie was home. nothing else mattered.

and when marvin turned to say something to anti, he had disappeared.

end act three - mind games.

[purplesurveys]

1047

What’s the most historic thing that has happened in your lifetime? I can think of a few things. There’s 9/11 though I was barely conscious then, Osama Bin Laden’s death, the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, 2011 Japan earthquake, and the H1N1 and Covid pandemics. In my country, there were typhoons Ondoy and Yolanda, the Manila hostage crisis, and the Hello Garci election corruption scandal. Out of these, though, I’d say the heaviest ones to bear have been 9/11 and Covid.

What happens in your country regularly that people in most countries would find strange or bizarre?

We use a spoon and fork to eat and only really fancy shmancy restaurants give you a knife and a fork. Many eat with their hands as well, though this is way more common in provinces.

Everyone is late to everything and punctuality isn’t a thing, which is a big culture pet peeve of mine and I still like arriving early/on time anywhere.

This applies to Asia in general lmao, but shoes typically aren’t allowed or at least frowned upon if they go beyond the main entrance of houses.

We start Christmas as early as September, and we end it by the last week of January

When families get together, aunts/uncles will usually greet their nieces/nephews by asking if they already have a boy/girlfriend and/or telling them that they got fat. Horror relatives will greet you with both.

People generally like to keep to themselves, so striking a friendly conversation with strangers even if you have the pure, genuine intention to be simply friendly will just lead them to think you’re being a creep lol

What has been blown way out of proportion? The effects of video games and the question of it increasing violence among kids. Sure there’ve been gruesome accounts and no one’s invalidating those, but the overwhelmingly vast amount of people who play video games end up okay. I had so many killing binges on GTA but to this day I can’t even look at a real gun without shuddering, lol. When was a time you acted nonchalant but were going crazy inside? This is me every morning at work. 9 AM-11 AM is always the busiest period and it’s a lot of shit happening at the same time and a lot of morning deadlines to meet, but unlike college I can’t exactly call for a timeout whenever I want and have panic attacks anymore.

What’s about to get much better? I hope my fucking life is next in line. I’m tired of being tired of being tired.

What are some clever examples of misdirection you’ve seen? Probably all the times WWE would mislead viewers on a rumored return or debut of a big name by saying they’re in another city, implying that there’s no way they’d be appearing on a WWE show. This happened with Ronda Rousey and it was so fucking exciting when she finally showed up, haha.

What’s your funniest story involving a car? I don’t know, really...I don’t try to be funny when I’m on the wheel lol. Probably the time I let Angela use my car on campus, and when she needed to make a u-turn she ended up doing an awkward 90º turn and had an SUV nearly crash towards us. She had only driven a handful of times at that point so she was a little clumsy, but neither of us had any idea she’d fuck up a simple u-turn as badly as she ended up doing lmao.

What would be the click-bait titles of some popular movies? I can think of more clickbait posters than titles, but I can’t seem to remember what those films are called right now.

If you built a themed hotel, what would the theme be and what would the rooms look like? Themed hotels generally make me cringe. The most theme-y place we ever stayed at was the lodge in Sagada and it was really just more homey than anything. I’m not into themes when it comes to hotels as I find it a little cheap lol and I’ve always preferred a straightforward experience in the places I stay at for vacations.

What scientific discovery would change the course of humanity overnight if it was discovered? A way to live forever. < This is a good one. Also, maybe a huge asteroid or meteor bound to hit the planet that will make widespread extinction a certainty? I can’t even begin to imagine the panic that will rise from something like that.

Do you think that humans will ever be able to live together in harmony? I doubt it. It sounds difficult especially when you realize we’re 7 billion in total.

What would your perfect bar look like? As long as there aren’t any annoying younger college kids, who are almost always the loudest crowd and not in a good way, I’m okay with any kind of bar.

What’s the scariest non-horror movie? Some shots in 2001: A Space Odyssey are freaky as fuck. There were several scenes that included sudden HAL shots, and I did not enjoy those. How the fuck Kubrick managed to make a computer scary is beyond me. I’ve also always skipped the vortex scene with the creepy face shots after seeing it once.

What’s the most amazing true story you’ve heard? This is a really vague question... a few months ago I watched this video diary of parents who had a child born at like 25 weeks. Just way too early, basically. And they recorded the kid’s weekly progress, how she kept fighting, and her journey of being transported from one machine to another while she still needed them. It was beautiful to see her get bigger and plumper with each week that passed and it was just such a feel-good story to watch. I was so relieved when they showed footage of her as a normal, healthy toddler by the end of the clip.

What’s the grossest food that you just can’t get enough of? I know balut is pretty unpopular in the Western part of the world, but I’ll gladly eat a dozen of them in one sitting. In general Asian street food is usually considered gross - pig intestines, chicken intestines, chicken feet, pig ears, etc., but all are normal in the culture I was raised in.

What brand are you most loyal to? It’s annoying and I can’t help it, but Apple.

What’s the most awkward thing that happens to you on a regular basis? I try not to make it regular, but sometimes a mistake on my end will slip through in an email I’m sending and I have to send another email correcting myself and apologizing for the oversight. One of my least favorite parts about work.

If you had to disappear and start a whole new life, what would you want your new life to look like? I’m not wishing for much. I just wish it was easier to remove any trace of me on social media sites and have it be as if I never existed because I think that would make it easier for me to move on from...well, you know what. I still have trouble verbalizing it and I don’t feel like mentioning it tonight.

But idk, I like staying connected to my family and friends, so idk if I can ever achieve that. And that said, I think I’m bound to always keep seeing her around.

What movie or book do you know the most quotes from? I memorize a pathetic amount of dialogue from Love Actually, Twilight, Titanic, and The Proposal.  What was one of the most interesting concerts you’ve been to? I guess Coldplay? They gave assigned lightsticks for each section and the crowd looked amazing when the production crew activated the lights for certain songs. I still have some of the clips because I posted them on Snapchat, so I’m really glad I did that; otherwise I would’ve lost the videos forever.

Where are you not welcome anymore? I’ve felt pretty unwelcome around her. How she could do a 180 and just not be interested in having anything to do with me is really soul-crushing.

What do you think could be done to improve the media? Fact fucking check, please. Also keeping sources balanced, avoiding clickbait headlines, being more objective than neutral, and don’t fucking sensationalize. How timely that this landed on a journalism graduate, hahaha.

What’s the most recent show you’ve binge watched? Start Up but I haven’t continued in the last two weeks :/ I think it’s because I know I’m nearing the finale and I subconsciously just don’t want to run out of Start Up episodes to watch lol but yeah, I still have four episodes left and I have no clue when I’ll watch it again.

What’s a common experience for many people that you’ve never experienced? Being close with their mom and considering them as their rock.

What are some misconceptions about your hobby? I don’t know enough about embroidery to know misconceptions about it.

What did you Google last? 2001: A Space Odyssey because I needed to be sure of the scenes I planned on citing in the question above that made me mention the movie.

What’s the dumbest thing someone has argued with you about? Not being able to find a restaurant to eat at. The backstory is a little complicated but it’s the same fight that led my younger brother to slap me across the face, and what subsequently led me to stop speaking to him.

If money and practicality weren’t a problem, what would be the most interesting way to get around town? Probably a tank.

What’s the longest rabbit hole you’ve been down? It’s always the ones on Wikipedia lol. I find weird and interesting articles on there all the time; there’s always something new to read.

What odd smell do you really enjoy? The rain, though sometimes it can be too overpowering when the humidity has been high. I like it for the most part, though.

What fashion trend makes you cringe or laugh every time you see it? Streetwear is so fucking dull to me. I never saw the appeal.

What’s your best story of you or someone else trying to be sneaky and failing miserably? Hahahaha this happened just a few weeks ago actually. My parents and I were headed out to have some ramen, and I opened the car door to hop onto the backseat. They didn’t prepare beforehand and they left the Christmas gift I asked for - a corkboard - in the backseat, so I was able to see the whole thing, unwrapped and with price tag and all. Their mortified faces knowing that their secret’s been blown were hilarious. They had no choice but to just give it up, and the corkboard has been on my wall since.

If you had a HUD that showed three stats about any person you looked at, what three stats would you want it to show? I guess the stability of our relationship, their general mood for the day, and erm how badly they need a hug because I’m always willing to give some.

What’s the best way you or someone you know has gotten out of a ticket / trouble with the law? My mom fake-cries her way out and it’s always been hilarious to see a grown ass woman do it and pull it off every time.

Tear gas makes people cry and laughing gas makes people giggle, what other kinds of gases do you wish existed? I don’t really want to manipulate people’s action in this way, so pass.