#has been here forever and you guys wanna still uphold it?

[nazarethsprincess]

Saw a tiktok and I’m honestly shocked with how overtly fatphobic people are and how much of it comes from former fat people.

Idk if there’s a genuine reasoning behind why you think that just because you were able to lose the weight, you’re now the spokesperson for fatphobia. You, better than most, understand how hard it is for fat people to deal with a lot of things in life

And fatphobia is a systemic issue, it’s not singular brands not having xxxl and whatnot; it’s fat people dying at a faster rate than others, eating disorders at an all time high, and the overall policing of the body is rooted in racism and will continue to kill people at an extremely unhealthy level

And one thing I hate is the argument that brands are allowed to target specific groups of ppl they want to cater to… like the skinny “average” body isn’t the only group they ever cater to. We are in the 21st century, you lot have lost all morality and empathy because you believe that every issue is singular…it’s not!!! Skinny people have and will continue to be the target group for literally every brand, why do you find yourself having trouble to understand that fat people want to be catered to as well and they deserve that!

[snail-sir]

I powered through two finals today I am treating myself to brainrot

There has been so much magister content lately and it is honestly fueling me. It's all so fun!! SO :D Meet my magisters!!! :DD my sillies!!! Disclaimer a LOT of rambling lmao

my sillies <33

Starting with Avaeryn! He's not the actual Magister Merlin, just a stand-in for now, because he's actually just another OC I decided to throw into this world, and it just devolved from there lmao. BUT this does play into my lore for Esperia Avaeryn 👀 because since I just threw him here, he's not supposed to exist in this world. Soooooo his soul is the only thing actually existing in this world that is Him. His soul, for some reason, decided to reside in the body of the actual Magister Merlin, Osiria, and accidentally booted out a chunk of her soul from her own body💀 this explains the amnesia for those two, bc Avaeryn literally Does Not Go Here and chunks of Osiris's memory got separated between body and soul. Don't ask me the science behind that bc I also don't know. Most of the magic Vaer knows is just Osiria's muscle memory or whatever little is left in that body.

Onto Osiria! She is the actual Merlin OC I made for this game, and therefore the Merlin people are usually referring to. She doesn't have the entirety of her memory anymore ofc since a chunk of her soul got booted out, so that chunk just follows her body around now lmao. She's just a non-corporeal being for the time being who can't really interact with stuff. However, I do think if one's magic is strong enough they can sense her, and maybe eventually see her, though Avaeryn's the only one who can do that rn. She doesn't know how to get back to her body and ofc Vaer doesn't know how to Not Be Here. Osiria still feels connected to her body in some way and can feel whatever goes on in there, as in emotions and injuries, and maybe in dire situations can retake control for precious moments. I hc that as a Merlin she's essentially immortal, although definitely not invincible. Like, her consciousness/soul can live forever and move onto a new body if she can't save her old body, but her bodies can live however long it can manage. But, since only a portion of Osiris's soul got kicked out of her body, her soul can't really find another body bc then there'll be two of her. Which is probably not good.

Personality wise these two are complete opposites.

Vaer is a very reserved and introverted person. He is the textbook definition of anti-social. He does not like being bothered. At All. So the fact that he is now this renowned mage that legit everyone knows and looks up to.. not liking that too much lmao. People are too friendly with him and he doesn't know how or want to handle that. He's also a very blunt and monotonous person, and on top of the fact he looks like he's gonna murder you 24/7, everything he says comes off as either sarcastic or rude. Osiria is giving it her soul's ALL to keep this guy from being like "why are you here. Leave me alone" to everyone he sees. They have the Merlin's reputation to uphold of course, and Vaer is making it SO hard for her. Like, Avaeryn's a good person. He's not gonna sit there and watch someone get mauled, and he's not gonna be intentionally rude or malicious or no reason. He's not even that easily annoyed, he just sounds like he constantly is lmao. (he Will throw hands if needed but he's smart enough to not. usually). He's quiet too but that also does not help with much at all. Monotonous and you can barely hear him. Which is driving Osiria insane. I literally made this guy so I can put him in games and pick rude dialogue without feeling that guilty LMAO

Osiria on the other hand is THE friend you wanna make. Very sweet, soft-spoken, and so So very caring. Wants to go out of her way to help anyone she comes across, and absolutely adores everyone around her. Perfect mother/big sister figure anyone would want. She nags Avaeryn a little too much for his liking bc if this lmao. She wants him to go help anyone and everyone, while all he wants to do is just be left alone. Which is never gonna happen. Though, she is a bit tooooo kind in the sense that she thinks everyone deserves to be helped, and will put her all into it. This can lead to her kindness being taken advantage of quite often, but good thing Vaer's rational enough to keep things balanced. The thing is, she's not stupid- she's aware that there's people taking advantage of her sweetness, but she just wants to help anyway. "It's best to help anyway because what's the point of leaving them stranded?" Avaeryn just thinks that they shouldn't inconvenience themselves if people can handle their own problems fine enough. People also don't like being called out by him (rightfully) lmao. Osiria thinks that's too mean though.

Relationship wise, they respect each other. Avaeryn stresses out Osiria a bit too much but overall, she understands that he usually means well, even though it often doesn't feel that way lmao. also that he's very much not a people person, so she doesn't make him go out strolling to find people to help just bc she feels like it. Wishes he doesn't scare her hamsters too much though. Vaer respects Osiria a lot as a person and as a magister. He understands that she's an important figure and therefore isn't as rude when she's around, especially since she's way too nice. He'll feel bad. Complies with her wishes more often than he would for other people bc he did technically overtake her body, and it's not like there's much else he can do lol. Overall they give more of a brother/sister relationship than anything else, and balance each other out quite well

Memes lmao

Tldr: I isekai-ed an oc who is now the supposed magister, and part of the soul of the actual Merlin now follows him around bc his soul booted hers out of her own body 💀 magister stand-in hates people which makes everything so much harder than it needs to be

[michaels-reality]

I just wanna make a post now cus it seems that people misunderstand my stance when I say the hl//vrai fandom is racist.

I couldn't give two shits if I never got notes or the tags didn't pick up my art or if I had 50 followers or 5000. I'm not calling the fandom racist because I didn't get the attention I wanted. I'm calling the fandom racist because of how I was treated within that fandom.

As a black artist, I've gotten racist remarks about my designs, I've gotten people woobifying or talking down to the characters cus of my designs, and I have a bunch of white people marveling at me because of my designs. It also became apparent to me as where I stood in the fandom, as someone who has been referred to as an "og" or "one of the big hl//vrai blogs". It just became too much for me too bear being in this majority white and nonblack fandom that would constantly uphold this racist atmosphere.

I don't think it's crazy for me to say that all or most of the popular artists in the fandom right now are white. And the designs they have for the science team are all white save for Gordon, who is usually ambiguously tan or drawn inaccurately to be black or a person of color, or maybe Coomer, who has the same issues of Gordon. And when people make only Gordon or Coomer tanner or a person of color, they usually accentuate their more aggressive traits, which is you guessed it! Racist! And I thought it would get better over time but people still favor those designs and I find my work and a lot of other black artist's work getting ignored and not as much attention as those white artists.

Also I've gotten people being very weird about my black designs before :(. I've gotten people wanting to pet, brush the hair, hug, play with the hair, etc my designs because I draw them as black people :|. People ask me why I draw them the way I do? And maybe these comments and questions are people with the best intentions! Maybe they don't wanna cause harm! But that doesn't change the fact that it was racist! Don't ask to pet people's characters or designs because you like their big kinky hair! Don't ask to pet people's black characters! Don't call their hair "floofy" or "fluffy" like we're sheep! Especially if you're white, and I could tell these were coming from white people.

Also I don't wanna create art for this fandom anymore because it is so white. My intention has never been to make art for you guys. My art is meant to reach black people and other people of color! It's always been that! To represent those people who don't see themselves in art often! If creating for this fandom is gonna get me a bunch of white people thinking I'm great for drawing flat black men or white people who look at my art cus "oh! I just think it's pretty!" then I definitely don't wanna be here anymore. I feel like a monkey in a cage, like you're show monkey. I was a token black artist in this fandom and people hold me up and say I'm so great, but I rarely see this greatness in action. For a big hl//vrai artist, I don't get asks about headcanons, I don't get people asking for my art to use as icons, I don't people asking to use my art in amvs or edits, I don't get people asking for my art to use for stimboards or anything like that. I know what I am to a lot of you! Your fucking show monkey! People don't think of me when they think of hl//vrai! I'm just a token! And maybe some of this is my pride talking and me wanting attention but shit! I'm done with it and I'm never making hl//vrai art ever again. I've said before I'll think about it if two comes out but I'm not sure about that even.

I love hl//vrai and I still do. The characters forever mean a lot to me. I don't regret joining this fandom, all my closest friends I met through this fandom and I love them so much! I don't hate white people or anything like that. I think white people can still follow me. But if you read this post and feel like I'm personally attacking you and your friends then maybe reflect on that. Why do you feel called out when people call out racism?

If you only want hl//vrai art from me then consider unfollowing me. I don't make art for you. Thank you.

[lu-undy]

Happy birthday, Solitude But Two!

Here is a bonus Chapter!

"You guys will be alright, yeah?" 

"Of course, Micky, it's not the first time you leave the kitties with us." 

"But it's gonna be more than an evenin' this time. Also, before I forget, I put one of Lu's shirts in the bag, they need it to sleep, don't forget it or they'll harass you until you give it to them."

Perle was gladly following Caroline around while Soot lay on Mike's lap, purring as the old man gently massaged the black cat. 

"Bah, we raised you and we used to have cats as well as dogs."

"Your Mum's right." Mike answered from the sofa. "We'll be fine. You go and have fun with Lucien. Did you tell him by the way?" 

"Nah, not yet. I'm keepin' it a surprise for him. Speaking of, I really gotta go or we’ll be late. He’s waitin’ to have lunch with me before I take him." 

"You arranged everythin'?" Caroline asked.

"Yeah, almost. Right, you guys take care, alright?"

"We will, Micky, you go and have your fun with your Lu'." Caroline answered as Mundy opened the front door.

"Meow!" Perle came trotting to her father and Soot jumped out of Mike's lap to join her. 

"Oh, sure, baby, c'mere you guys…" Mundy squatted down and dealt headbutts and scratches left and right to both the felines. "You behave with Grandma and Grandpa, yeah?" 

"Meow." 

"Good babies." He left a kiss on their heads and pushed himself back to stand up. "See ya!"

"See you in a few weeks, Micky!" 

A few moments later, the Aussie was on his motorcycle, racing through the streets and in his own mind. He had been preparing this for a while now. 

It had been one year. 

One year since he had put a ring on Lucien's finger and vice versa. Well, it would be one year exactly in a few days and this was what it was all about, celebrating the first anniversary of Lucien and him being… well… husbands? 

Of course, their legal status remained single but in their hearts and their heads, they were very much taken and faithful to each other. Mundy never did attract a lot of attention from ladies and gents, but Lucien… 

Every time the couple was having dinner outside, or enjoying a party with the few friends they had made, one person would walk to Lucien and hit on him. The first time it happened, it was a woman but Mundy nonetheless felt the itch to show her the rings, Lucien's and his. As he came close to his lover, he heard Lucien chuckle at the poor woman's attempt to pull her into her bed. He remembered it with a smile now…

“Oh, here you are, Mundy.”

“Hey, Lu.”

The woman had raised her eyes to the Aussie. 

“This your friend?” She asked. 

“More than that…” Lucien put a hand on Mundy’s chest and leaned on him. “Please meet my everything, Mundy. Mundy, this is the charming Amanda.”

“Hey there.” Mundy had stuck to being cold but polite, a defensive hand went to grab his Lucien and pull him to himself, almost defensively. 

“What d’you mean, ‘your everything’?” She chuckled with a raised eyebrow, confused and slightly mocking. 

“I mean this.” Lucien answered and pulled Mudy’s neck down for the Aussie to be at his lips height. He pushed a loving kiss on his lips and released him. Mund opened his eyes again, his mind still on the kiss even though Lucien’s lips had parted from his. 

Amanda’s jaw hung low and wide. 

“He is my husband, look!” Lucien went on, uphased. “This is the ring. It has only been a few months, mind you, time flies, but we love each other as if we were half our ages… Oh? Amanda?”

The woman had spun on her heels and left, leaving Lucien to chuckle and turn back to Mundy. 

“So, mon loup, are you enjoying your evening?” 

[My wolf]

“Uh… Y-yeah… Wasn’t she hittin’ on you?” Mundy nodded in the direction of the woman. 

“She was, very much.” Lucien answered. “But for some reason she left now. I cannot think why… Women shall remain a mystery!”

“Maybe that’s cause you snogged me like there’s no tomorrow in front of her?” Mundy answered.

“Oh, that? Maybe.” Lucien answered and leaned against Mundy’s shoulder again. He stared at the woman refilling her glass with whatever strong alcohol she could find before he raised his light blue eyes to his lover. 

They exchanged a smile. 

“You’re a devil, you know that?” Mundy said. 

“Maybe, but I am having great fun.”

“Why did you do that to her? You could have just said that you were already with someone.”

“And miss this laughter we shared? For nothing in the world. This ring that she chose to ignore,” Lucien raised his hand to Mundy. “It means that I vowed to make you happy. You did laugh, didn’t you?”

“Yeah, I did. “

“Then I am upholding my vows. Très bien.”

[Very well] 

 “You’re mean, Lu’. Look at her now…”

“I am not mean. If anything, she was.”

“What?!” Mundys eyebrows jumped in surprise.

“I am wearing my engagement ring and she still chooses to approach me. She knew she was taking a risk and she liked the thrill of it. Well, let this be a lesson for her: not all the risks are worth taking, Madame Amanda.”

“Well, if you put it that way…” Mundy agreed. 

And Mundy reached his destination, which pulled him out of his daydream. He parked the motorcycle safely and entered his house. 

“Mon loup, c’est toi?”

[My wolf, is that you?]

“Oui, mon amour.”

[Yes, my love.]

Lucien rose from his armchair and met his love at the front door. 

"Your accent when you speak French is delicious…" He said before pushing himself to the tip of his toes and kissing Mundy. 

"I'm makin' progress, aren't I?" Mundy laced his arms around Lucien's waist.

"Oui, but please, never lose your accent." 

"If it goes like it does with you, I'll still have my accent in a hundred years."

"Are you saying I am old?" Lucien frowned in an exaggeratedly sad way. 

"I'm not the one spendin' my time sayin' 'You'll see when you get to my age', eh!"

"Pfff…" 

They chuckled together.

"You ready?" Mundy asked. 

"Where are you taking me for lunch?"

"Where d'you think?"

"Hm…" The couple exited the house and Mundy locked the door as Lucien thought out loud. "Maybe the new Lebanese place that opened in town? I am told it is exquisite and very reasonable in price." 

"Since when d'you care about the price of things?" Mundy smiled. "Oh, no, no, Lu', we're not goin' with the bike. I called a taxi." 

"Oh? This means that you intend to get drunk, so maybe the Irish pub? But isn't it early to get drunk?"

"Never too early to be with you, baby." Mundy raised his arm for the taxi to stop while Lucien's blush took a moment to fade. 

They both embarked in the taxi. 

"Where to, Sir?" The driver asked. 

"Where I told you on the phone, please." Mundy answered. 

"Alright." The driver let his foot press on the gas pedal and off they all went. 

"Tu me caches des secrets?"

[You are holding secrets from me?]

"Oui." Mundy answered. 

"Dis-moi où tu m'emmènes." Lucien asked.

[Tell me where you are taking me.]

Mundy shook his head and took a glance in the inside rear view mirror. The driver was busy. Good. The Aussie slid his hand to take his lover’s. 

“C’est une surprise, doll.” He answered with his accent. 

[It’s a surprise.]

“D’accord.” Lucien smiled and nodded.

[Very well.]

And the ride took them away from where the usual restaurants the couple frequented used to go. Lucien straightened his back and looked through the window. He started frowning when he saw the control tower of the airport, the same one he had landed in, a few years ago now. And it got him thinking. What if he could go back and see the Lucien that disembarked on the plane that day. Would the slightly younger Lucien believe him if he had told him what he would become? What would he even tell him? 

Tu rencontreras l’homme de ta vie et ta vie basculera. Tu ne demanderas plus comment ni pourquoi. Tu vivras l’instant, tout simplement, comme quand tu avais vingt ans. Tu vivras et aimeras, comme quand tu avais vingt ans. Tu seras heureux comme jamais tu ne l’as été. 

[You will meet the man of your life and your life will flip upside down. You will not wonder how or why anymore. You will live the instant, simply, as you did when you were twenty. You will live and you will love, as you did when you were twenty. You will be happy as you never were before.]

Would the younger Lucien believe him or would he laugh at him, scornful and disdainful, before he would realise that perhaps, the older him was senile, old, and out of his mind? 

Pff, in the end, Lucien did not even care. He smiled at that version of himself. The bitter, cynical and lonely old man. He was now even older, but so much happier…! 

"Lu'?" 

Mundy's voice broke the Frenchman's train of thought. 

"Oui?" 

"Je t'aime." 

[I love you.] 

Mundy said those words with such honesty in his eyes that Lucien's cheeks turned pink on their own. 

"Moi aussi."

[Me too.]

He smiled back at him and clenched his fingers a bit harder between Mundy's. 

"Alright, we're gettin' there, Sir. Which door should I drop you at?" The driver asked. 

"Departures, please." Mundy answered, his eyes sealed on Lucien's and the Frenchman's eyebrows jumped. 

"Departures?" He repeated.

"Yeah."

"Are we… travelling?"

"Yeah." 

"But Mundy, we haven't taken any luggage with us?" 

"Don't be silly." Mundy gently chuckled as the driver parked. 

Both men exited the car and Mundy winked at Lucien. 

"C'mon, Lu', keep up! We don't wanna miss the flight…!"

"W-wait!" Lucien caught up with his lover. 

The airport was as busy as an anthill. People coming, going, running, pushing carts, holding their hats on their heads as they ran. 

"Mundy, were you serious?" 

"Course I am! We're goin', c'mon!" Mundy glanced up at a screen and quickly spun on his heels to change direction. Lucien followed, sometimes even trotting after his lover. 

"But where are we going?" 

"Told you, and in French at that, it's a surprise." 

"You cannot keep the surprise going forever, I will soon know." Lucien answered. 

"Yeah, but meanwhile, I'm likin' this whole 'Lu' doesn't know what's happenin'' business." Mundy smirked and looked down at Lucien, which he knew the Frenchman had a weakness for. 

"I shall find out myself!"

"Alright, good luck, Sherlock." Mundy winked and Lucien smiled. 

They walked through halls and corridors. 

"Uh, uh, uh! Gimme what you took from my pocket back!" Mundy stopped walking and turned to Lucien

"How could you possibly know?!" Lucien stopped. "I made every effort for you not to feel it!"

"You stole somethin' from my back pocket." Mundy said and opened his palm flat. "Give it back…" 

"How did you know?" Lucien frowned. 

Mundy sighed with a smile. He took the step that separated him from his lover and bent slightly such that his lips were next to the Frenchman's ear.

"I felt you touched my butt, and I liked it."

"Ah…" Lucien lowered his head and raised the plane tickets that he had taken from Mundy's back pocket. 

"Thank you, now stop bein' a spook and follow me."

They went on following sign after sign and looking at all the screens they met. 

"Here, that's the search thingy. I hope you don't have your blade with you." Mundy said as they queued. 

"What do you take me for?"

Both men started undoing their belts. Mundy removed his glasses and his hat. When the Aussie finished, he walked through the metal detector and soon after, his lover followed him. 

BEEP! 

"Ah, oui, I must explain myself." Lucien calmly said and Mundy observed the scene. "This is my passport. If you run a check on me, you will understand." 

The security employee took the passport and disappeared for a while. He came back and his colleague stopped him. 

"Hey, don't let him go, he had a knife in his belongings!"

"No, we have to let him go." The man handed Lucien his passport back. "With the knife and all. Have a good day, Sir, and sorry for the inconvenience." 

"No problem, you are but doing your job, Monsieur." Lucien took his belongings back and left the area. "Mundy? Are you coming? I do not know which gate we should head to."

Mundy had been standing there, his belt half put on, half still dangling down. His jaw had dropped as he watched. 

"Uh, y-yeah."

"Mundy." Lucien stopped him. 

"Yeah?" 

"Maybe you should finish putting your belt first?" Lucien tilted his head on the side and Mundy looked down at his waist. 

"Ah, uh, yeah…" 

A few moments later, both of them were standing in front of a screen. 

"Well, this is the moment where you'll see where I'm takin' you, doll." 

"Oui, it is. So? Which gate shall we go to?" 

"Forty-five." 

Lucien's eyes scanned the screen. 

"Oh… Mundy, but… Why Paris?" 

"Because I love you, and I wanna see what it's like over there."

"I…"

"C'mon, let's go." 

When they sat on the metallic, back-breaking bench at the gate, they chose a corner where they could be alone and in peace.

"Mundy, why go to Paris, honestly?" Lucien looked up at his lover. 

"Told you. I wanna see what your life was like when you were there. I mean… I know you told me you're not from there. But still… Besides, you've been livin' with me in Oz for a while, you've seen me and my life, I wanna see yours."

"I have indeed seen the Bushman in his natural habitat." Both exchanged a chuckle. 

"Look, if you don't want it, we can go back home. I don't wanna force you, baby." Mundy cast his eye around and dropped his hat on his thigh. He then slid his hand and pulled Lucien's underneath it. The Frenchman felt Mundy's thumb brush against the back of his hand.

"So, what d'you say?" Mundy asked.

"I say we go and I will show you the city where I grew up." Lucien answered. 

"You sure?" 

"We are about to board, Mundy, it is rather late to turn and go back home, non?" 

"No, not at all. If you feel awkward or anythin', we can go back home. I wanted to make it a surprise for you but the point's not for you to feel weird about it." 

"Non, Mundy, you are right. I should show you." Lucien clenched his grip on Mundy's hand. 

"You sure? I mean, are you happy to do it?"

"Delighted."

And Mundy took a second to stare in his lover’s eyes. Was he lying just to please him? To not make him feel awkward? The Aussie slightly squinted. He looked through the crystal clear irises to see the soul beyond them. Were Lucien’s lips deceiving the Aussie? Bah, it wouldn’t be the first time but… When was the last time that Lucien had lied?

Hm. 

Oh! Yeah, Mundy remembered it, it was… 

At the lake, almost exactly one year before, the wig. Lucien had worn a wig because he thought his lover could only look at him with the eyes of love when he made himself more feminine. It was obviously wrong and Mundy had tossed the long-haired lie away. That was Lucie’s last one.

Mundy blinked and his eyebrow relaxed. Lucien was not lying. He was looking up at the Aussie with eyes that screamed his limitless love for him. 

“Alright then, doll. Glad you’re happy to show me around.”

“Of course.” Lucien answered. “I am surprised by this trip but welcome it warmly. I think we should probably have done that before but I suppose we did not stop to think about it.”

“Yeah, that’s true. Got any ideas on what we should see?”

“Apart from the classics like the Tour Eiffel, the Arc de triomphe, and other tourist attractions? Hm, I shall think about it.”

“Can I ask you to show me some stuff in particular?”

“But of course. What do you have in mind?”

“Where you lived, where you worked, places you liked to eat at, that kind of thing.” 

"I will."

They exchanged a conniving smile and the call to board the plane interrupted them. 

"Ready, baby?" 

"Oui." 

"Right, let's go and queue." 

A few minutes later, both found their seats in the plane and Mundy looked through the window. The sky was blue despite the relative cold of winter. Well, once in Paris, it will be summer… The plane took off and when the couple was higher in the sky than the clouds themselves, Lucien looked up at Mundy on his left. 

“I am surprised.”

“You’d better. Been hidin’ evidence of everything.”

“How did you do it?”

“Gave the tickets and everything to my Mum.” Mundy smiled. “I even tried to not think about it. I never know with you; could turn out that you can read my thoughts or somethin’.”

Lucien chuckled. 

“I could indeed.” He confirmed with a lingering smirk on his lips. “However, I choose not to.”

“Why?”

“The Lucien of the previous life used to read minds because he needed it.”

“And now it’s just a hobby?” Mundy chuckled. 

“Almost.” Lucien answered. “Non, I value my relationship too much with you to not give you the same privacy that you give me. It is a question of respect. However, it is cute to see you try to read me to see if I lie sometimes.”

“Ah, uh, well…” Mundy scratched the back of his head. “Sorry...  I don’t want you to think that I don’t trust you…”

“Not at all. It gives me the impression that you really want to know what is going on in my head, which I appreciate.”

“Really?”

“Oui, I like this side of you, the side that wants to read all my fears in my eyes before I am fully aware of them.”

Mundy blushed. 

“Yeah, well… Sorry, can’t help it.”

“It is a gift and a blessing, thank you for being so.”

“You’re welcome, baby. But uh, Lu’?”

“Oui?”

“Why did you say you were surprised?”

“Ah…” Lucien chuckled before he even gave the answer. “I did not take you for the business class ticket kind of a man.”

“I was gonna go for the economy thing, but then Mum said that in business we’d get a booth and we wouldn’t be bothered by people givin’ us looks. So I can do this…” Mundy reached for Lucien’s hand and took it. “And no one’ll look weird at us.”

“Cutely thoughtful of you, mon loup.”

“You can thank my Mum for that.”

Both chuckled and Lucien leaned his head on Mundy's shoulder. 

“I will, but in the meantime, thank you, mon amour.”

Minutes passed that turned into hours and the sky naturally darkened. After the dinner they were handed in, the couple closed their eyes. 

“Mornin’, luv’.”

“Bonjour, mon amour.”

[Good morning, my love.]

Both yawned, woken up by the bright morning sun above the clouds. 

“Slept well?”

“I think my neck will hate me for a few hours only. What about you?”

“My legs…”

“How long do we have left until we land?”

“Uh…” Mundy checked his watch. “A few hours…?”

“Mundy.”

“Some number of hours…?”

“Mon loup.”

“Alright, ok, we got three hours left.”

“That isn’t that bad, actually.” Lucien answered, surprised.

“Yup. Oh, Lu’, I just thought about something.”

“Oui?”

“Uhm… Y’know how I told you I wanted to visit your workplace?”

“Oui, I remember.”

“How’re you gonna do it? I mean you're supposed to be dead for the Ministry back there, aren’t you?”

“Indeed, I am. You will have to call me by my second name when we get there so as not to raise suspicions.”

“But you still look like yourself. People will recognise you, won’t they?”

“Non, they will not. I was once a spy: entering places I shouldn't be while being someone I am not was my occupation for decades and not a trade easily forgotten.” Lucien raised his eyes to Mundy. “Do not worry, I will show you the Ministry.” He smiled tenderly.

“Alright, I trust you. But if you think we can’t make it or somethin’, there’s no shame in sayin’ it.”

“Non, absolutely not, you are right. But this will be easy.”

A few hours and a nap later, the pilot announced the imminent landing. Mundy looked at the city below the plane. He could see a river flowing, zigzagging through the capital. 

“C’est la Seine.”

[It is the Seine.]

“Oh…”

“Ca, c’est l’île Saint-Louis… Et ça ? tu peux me dire ce que c’est ?”

[This is the Saint-Louis Island… And this? Can you tell me what it is?]

Lucien pointed and Mundy squinted to see better. 

“It’s… Oh! C’est la Tour Eiffel, non?”

[It’s the Eiffel Tower, isn’t it?]

Mundy answered in French and Lucien looked at him as he always did, yet each time, the Aussie couldn’t help but fall slightly deeper for his lover. 

“Oui, c’est la tour Eiffel.”

[Yes, it is the Eiffel Tower.]

Lucien confirmed. 

“It’s the real thing? It’s tiny…”

Lucien’s smile vanished. 

“I beg your pardon?”

“It’s tiny! I thought it was supposed to be very tall!”

“Well, you will climb it using the stairs and I swear to God your thighs will make you regret these words!” Lucien answered and Lundy burst into laughter. 

“I’m jokin’, you sensitive, patriotic old baby…”

“Hm, joking now, aren’t you…? I will still make you climb to the top of it on the stairs.”

“How many steps is it to the top, d’you know?”

“One thousand six hundred and sixty-five. It takes between half an hour and forty-five minutes to climb it to the second floor which is not even the top.”

“You're pulling that out of your arse, aren’t you?”

“You shall see….!” Lucien leaned back on his seat with a smug smile on his lips. 

“Hm… Hold on, we aren’t gettin’ closer to the ground, the Eiffel Tower’s still tiny…”

“It is because it is forbidden to fly over Paris.”

“Are you serious?”

“Oui, I am, it has been so since the Second World War, if I remember correctly.”

“Woah… You guys know no Germans are gonna come and bully you again, don’t you?”

“We know. But we would rather keep our sky blue and free of planes.” Lucien answered. 

“Fair enough. Makes it more calm I guess."

When the plane landed and both made it through, Mundy held Lucien back in front of the airport's closed doors. 

"Hold on, before we step into actual Paris…"

"Oui?"

"I love you, Lu'." 

Lucien smiled. 

"I love you too."

"Alright, now, we can go." 

They took a step more and the doors slid open. The first rays on the Parisian summer sun hit their skin warmly and the lightest of breezes grazed their cheeks before rolling up to the sky. 

“Here we are then, eh? Paris.” Mundy said looking around him.

“We are outside of the city itself but I guess you booked a hotel inside?” Lucien asked.

“Actually, I didn’t.”

“Oh?” Lucien raised surprised eyebrows. 

“I was kind of counting on you to know where to go…?” Mundy admitted with a half ashamed smile.

“Oh, of course. I have recommendations.”

“You choose then, Lu’. I looked up the hotels and stuff but there were too many of them and I didn’t know which one to pick.”

“It is fine, let us call a taxi, I know where we should go.” Lucien smiled.

“Thanks, Lu’.”

“My pleasure.”

After half an hour inside a taxi, both stepped out in front of a hotel and Lucien waited for the car to disappear behind him. 

“Welcome to the Ritz.” Lucien said and Mundy looked up to take the large three-floor building in. The architecture was nothing like he had seen so far. At the end of a flight of stairs hidden by a red carpet, the doors stood wide and tall between spiral-trimmed slim plants and equally fancy dressed porters. A French flag was flying above the double door that put a slight proud smile on Lucien’s lips. The walls were all made out of light beige stone and on each floor, rectangular windows were neatly and equally spaced. On the first floor were slim balconies adorned with a golden plated logo of the hotel. As Mundy’s eyes followed the column of clean stones, jumping from one window to the one above, he noticed that high up, the roof was covered in dark slate with windows surrounded by smoothly moulded, light beige stone.

“Gosh…”

“Come on, we both need a shower at least.” Lucien smiled at how absorbed Mundy was by the looks of the building. 

The couple decided to take a few days of rest and let the jet-lag fade away slowly. They had their clothes bought and delivered to them at the hotel and enjoyed their meals either in their suite or in the restaurant downstairs. 

“What did you say the room we’re in was called?”

Lucien chuckled. 

“It is not a room, but a suite, mon amour, and it is called the Coco Chanel suite.”

“Funny name…”

“It is the name of a prestigious designer. She designed the room herself.”

“She was French?”

“Oui, she was.”

“Ah, guess it makes sense… How much is it per night?”

“A price that pales next to that of your company.” Lucien poetically answered. 

“Thanks, Lu, but I meant in Francs?”

“About a hundred…”

“Oh that’s quite cheap for a suite.”

“... Thousand Francs per night.”

“WHAT?!” Mundy almost spat his coffee out.

Lucien burst out laughing, catching his breath in the short little snorts that Mundy fell in love with. 

The next couple of days were spent visiting all the tourist-heavy places: the Eiffel Tower, the cathedral of Notre-Dame, the Palace of Versailles… Mundy saw more paintings and sculptures in those few days than he did in his entire life.

“Stop.” 

Lucien’s voice was firm, too firm and cold to be addressing Mundy. The Aussie turned and saw Lucien with his hand on a young man's wrist. 

“Hold on, that’s my wallet in your hand…!” Mundy snatched it back from the stranger's hand. 

“La prochaine fois que tu pick-pocket quelqu’un, choisis mieux ta cible et ne regarde pas autant que ça à droite et à gauche, on te voit venir à des kilomètres.”

[Next time you pickpocket someone, choose your target more carefully and don’t look so much left and right, you are telegraphing all your moves.] 

The young man opened wide eyes and as soon as Lucien released his wrist, he darted off. 

“Attends.”

He stopped and turned to Lucien, a few metres away from him. 

“Tiens. Et tu n’es pas mauvais, tu devrais en faire quelque chose.”

[Here. And you are not bad, you should do something out of it.]

Lucien handed him a note. The young man took it and left. 

“You gave him money?” Mundy asked. 

“Oui.” Lucien resumed his walk and Mundy followed him. 

“Why?”

“Because stealing is rarely a hobby. If one does it, it is out of necessity. Throwing  this young man in a cell will not help him at all. On the other hand, helping him such should.”

Mundy fell silent for a moment. 

“Besides,” Lucien started speaking again. “I was once this young man, only I never got caught.”

The next day, the couple woke up normally. Good, the jet-lag had finally passed. 

“Mundy?”

“Yeah?”

“Do you want to visit the ministry today?”

The half woken up Australian opened wide eyes in a flash. 

“Sure. Uhm, how are we gonna do this?”

“I have an idea. But I need to call Maurice first. You go and take a shower, I will telephone him and will let you know.”

“Alright.”

A couple of hours later, both men stood in front of an elegant building in the heart of the fifth district of Paris, or as Mundy liked to call it ‘the fancy one”. 

“Shall we?” Lucien asked. 

“I’d follow you but ho ‘re we gonna go through these soldiers?”

Two military looking people were guarding the entry and checking everyones credentials. 

“As easy as just follow me.” Lucien answered with a smile before he took the flight of stairs up and met with the soldiers. 

“Bonjour, Messieurs. Nous venons de la part de Maurice de Ronzières, en Australie.”

[Good morning gentlemen. We come on behalf of Maurice de Ronzières, in Australia.]

“Je dois vérifier.”

[I must check.]

“Faites donc.”

[Pray do.]

Both men waited at the door and when the guard came back to them, he let them in. 

“Gosh, Lu’ - I mean, Louis… We’re in…”

“Oui, welcome to a place that they redecorated and I barely recognise…” Lucien shook his head disappointedly as he held his hips.

“That means we can’t visit it cause you don’t know where stuff is anymore?”

“Non, non.”

“Then why d’you look uh… not happy with it?”

“Because they redecorated and made it is ugly!” Lucien raised his arms in the air before letting them drop again. “Had I been still alive, I would have given the Minister of Defense a piece of my mind…!”

“Hold on…!” Mundy caught up with his lover and walked through the corridors. 

They abruptly stopped walking in front of a small door hidden under the stairs, on which Lucien gave a few knocks. 

“Qui est-ce?”  A muffled, old man’s voice asked.

[Who is it?]

“C’est moi.” Lucien answered and the door opened.

[It’s me.]

“Grand Dieu, Maurice a dit vrai…!”

[Good Lord, Maurice spoke the truth…!]

A short, skinny, old man emerged from what Mundy understood was the broom closet. He had lost most of his hair on his head and wore round, thick glasses.

“Comment allez vous, Georges?” Lucien opened his arms and the old man took a step forward and hugged him.

[How are you, Georges?]

"Ça doit faire une éternité! Les cheveux gris vous changent, Louis, mais je vous reconnais bien.”

[It must have been an eternity since last time. Grey hair makes you look so different, Louis, but I still recognise you.]

“Parlez-vous un peu d’anglais?”

[Do you happen to speak a bit of English?]

“Oh, j’ai les rudiments, à force d’entendre tout ce qui se passe…!”

[Oh, I learnt the basics on the fly here, as I’m forced to hear bits here and there…!]

“Then,” Lucien naturally switched to English. “Please meet my husband, Mundy.”

Mundy blushed beyond his ears. It was so uncommon for Lucien to introduce him as his husband straight away. 

“And Mundy, please meet Georges, the ultimate spy.”

“Nice to meet you.” Mundy extended his hand and the old man shook it with a smile. 

“Does he understand French?” Georges asked, his accent so thick that next to him, Lucien sounded like a native…!

“Bits, oui, I have been teaching him.” Lucien answered. 

“Then, mes félicitations, mon garçon!”

[Congratulations, my boy!]

“Oh, uh, thanks… But how are you the ultimate spy?” Mundy asked. 

“We can chat as we walk, boys, come on, follow me!” The old man pulled a trolley of rags, dusters and all kinds of cleaning products out of the closet before he started pushing it. Lucien and Mundy followed him. 

“Georges here is responsible for the cleanliness of everything you see. He also happens to have the keys to every room in this building apart from a very select few of them. And all of that makes Georges the best guide to this place." Lucien explained as the trio walked through the corridor. 

The old man pushed his trolley through the corridors, making sure to take all the stair cases that nobody usually takes. 

"And I forgot to say," Lucien added through Georges' explanation of the rooms and corridors. "This man here is invisible to everyone meaning that if we stick to him, we become invisible too." 

"And so you don't break your cover… Ah, I get it…" Mundy nodded to himself. 

"Georges, could you take us to the portrait room, please?" 

"Yes, I can. They didn't move it cause they say history can't be changed." The old man answered, the keys jiggling from his belt loop.

"Ah, perfect." 

Georges took a second to unlock the door and push it open. 

"You have ten minutes, fifteen tops, before my colleague comes here to dust everything off. I'll try and buy you some time but he's young and finds I talk too much so he usually just leaves me alone to do his job. Counting on you, boys, be careful with the time!"

"We will be. Merci infiniment, Georges." 

[Thank you infinitely, Georges.]

"Avec plaisir." 

[My pleasure.]

Both men entered and Lucien shut the large, wooden double doors after them.

“Wow, what’s this place? Who’re these people?” Mundy said as he found himself in a room surrounded by painted or printed portraits. The oldest were black and white engravings while the most recent ones were coloured.

“This is the portrait room. It contains the photograph, painting or engraving of every man who made a decisive contribution to the establishment or security of this country.” Lucien explained. “Please, do have a look.”

Mundy started walking in what felt more like an art gallery than a room. He admired the faces, sometimes commenting on the military attire or the old style moustaches and beards. Lucien tried his best to recall the bits of history he knew about those important figures of the country, mentioning a few anecdotes when his memory allowed him to. 

“Golden frames for everyone, eh? That’s fancy as all hell…” Mundy said. 

“Indeed it is.” Lucien answered. “I am told that nowadays, when young spies finish their training, they are brought here and come out of this room with the hope that one day, their face will be on thiese walls.”

“Yeah, I can get the enthusiasm.” Mundy said. “Oh, Lu’... Hold on… Is that…?” Munddy squinted in front of a photograph and took a step forward. His eyes zigzagged on that of the man with light eyes and coal black hair. “Bloody hell, isn’t that you?!”

Lucien chuckled. 

“Guilty as charged.” The Frenchman said. 

“How old were you on this? You look half the age of the others!”

“I started my career early and abruptly. Some would say I even started without knowing it myself. But to answer your question, I was in my early twenties in this picture.”

“Bloody hell… You look like an angel back then already.”

Lucien smiled. 

“Merci.”

“What did you do to get your face up there?”

“I helped in the Résistance to free France from the Germans. I started as a courier boy, delivering messages until I grew up and understood that my, ahem, ease to approach women could be an asset for the country. Countless Nazi were caught through their wives and their mysterious lover.”

“You…?”

“Mh-hm, me. I broke a lot of German hearts back then, even before France’s liberation.” Lucien chuckled.

“Wow… Id love to take a picture of it.”

“We could take it back, if you want.”

“What?! You wanna steal it?!”

“It is my face and I am dead. I can claim it back.” Lucien shrugged.

“Hm.” Mundy fell deep in thought. “You know what?”

“Mh?”

“Leave it there.”

“You have changed your mind?”

“Yeah, leave it there for folks to look up at you and remember you. You changed my life, yeah, but you also changed an entire country before that. Let them have a souvenir.”

Lucien smiled. 

“Very well, mon loup.”

The next day, the couple woke up with the first rays of light, wrapped in the satin sheet of the Coco Chanel suite at the Ritz.

“Lu’?”

“Oui?”

“Uhm, there’s somewhere I wanna take you today.”

“Oh?” Lucien’s surprise was obvious. Mundy wanted to take him somewhere? Where? Why? And above all, how? The Aussie had spent the past week or so following his lover blindly and complaining that he did not know how Lucien could know where he was going. “Sure, when do you want to go?”

“This evenin’, if that’s fine with you too. We can go have dinner somewhere and then we’ll go?”

“Perfect for me, Mundy.”

And for the entire day, Lucien kept on thinking about it. Where would Mundy take him…? Until of course it was time to go. He followed his tall lover through the streets. The Aussie stopped only a few times to check his map and make sure they were heading in the right direction. 

“Alright, should be after this street.”

They stopped when they reached beautiful dark blue, wrought-iron gates. 

“A park? You wanted to take me to a park?”

“I uh… I don't think it’s any odd park.” Mundy answered and Lucien frowned. They both entered and wandered inside, following the yellow narrow roads. 

“Why did you want to bring me here, Mundy?”

“I think you guessed why.” Mundy answered. “You know we’re not in any park.”

“Indeed, I do, so why here?”

“Because it’s part of you and it’s important.” Mundy answered before he stopped walking. “Now, you gotta guide me.”

Lucien took a deep breath and let it all out in a long sigh. 

“Très bien.” He started walking and it took a few minutes of silence before they reached their destination, under a tree. 

“Is it here?” Mundy asked. 

“Oui, it should be.”

“Gimme your blade.”

Lucien took it from his inner pocket and passed it to Mundy who went down to sit on his knees and started digging. The Frenchman waited, his arms wrapped around himself. He felt slightly cold even though the day had been scorching hot and he evening was still warm. 

“Here we go...!” Mundy unearthed a small tin box. “Let’s go back to the hotel.” He stood up and dusted his knees off before both him and Lucien headed back. 

When they were in their suite and alone, Mundy headed for the bathroom. He cleaned the box of all the soil on it and brought it back to the living-room on a towel. Lucien had been sitting on the sofa, his stare blank. 

“You alright?”

“Oui,” He shook his head as if to land back into reality. “I was just lost in thought.”

“C’mon, ask me.” Mundy said and Lucien sighed. 

“Why did you do this?”

“Because you told me that everythin’ that was you before was in a box, that you had buried it in a park in Paris as the rain was pouring down in the middle of the night. You told me that it has all sorts of things like pictures of you, maybe even of your family and everythin’.” 

Mundy took a deep breath and took Lucien’s hand in his. 

“It’s been one year of you and me bein’ a solid thing and it’s been even longer of us just spendin’ all our time together, and even longer of me lovin’ you to bits.” Lucien blushed at the last part and smiled shyly. “And today, it’s been exactly one year of us being a thing. I put a ring on your finger and you put one on mine one year ago exactly. I just… I don’t wanna make you feel bad at all, I love you, I just wanna see your life from before and beyond that, I want you to be at peace with what you were before.”

“Hm.”

“I don’t care what you were, I just want you to accept whatever's in that box as a part of you. It doesn’t need to be buried down in the ground, it shouldn’t be there. It should be with us, with our pictures and memories.”

Lucien had sat silently through his lover’s speech. 

“You understand, baby doll?”

Lucien raised his eyes to his lover. 

“You are right, Mundy.” He took the box and put it on his lap before gently opening it. “This is the only photo album I have ever bought in my life, before we got ours. The oldest pictures are of my parents, then me as a baby and a young boy. The next picture is when I was officially made a spy, after the end of the Second World War, during which I served in the Résistance.”

He flipped the pages and pointed for Mundy to follow.

“Wow, you were already gorgeous back then.”

“Thank you.” 

The Aussie wrapped an arm around his lover to pull him close and Lucien leaned on him.

“Mundy?”

“Yeah?”

“How did you know which hpark it was?” Lucien asked. “I don’t think I mentioned the name of it.”

“I asked Maurice for the park where we could spend some quality time that would mean something for you.”

“Ah, I see.” Lucien turned the page. “This is the few pictures of Marie and Jérémy that I have.”

“She was real pretty.”

“Oui, she was.” Lucien smiled at the pictures. 

“And Jeremy kind of looked like you a bit, I mean, his hair’s lighter than yours but…”

“He was born blond like the sun.” Lucien said. “His hair darkened as he grew up and was dirty blond before he passed.”

“Oh, I see.”

“This is us, all together.”

“Look at you bein’ a dad… You look so comfy handlin’ the baby. I’m always scared when I’m handed a kid. Always scared to drop them or hurt them or somethin.”

Lucien smiled with nostalgia.

“You should not. They are indeed very fragile but you are very strong.” He turned his head and pushed his lips on Mundy’s. 

“Thanks, luv’.”

“Thank you.” Lucien put the photo album aside. 

“There’s more stuff in the box?”

“Oui. Here, this was my first ever blade.”

“Oh, you kept it?”

“Oui, as a souvenir. When I was in the Résistance, I never thought that doing what I was doing would turn me into a spy, get me a job and a life that is reasonably put together. I just did it because I could and I was told I had a gift for it.”

“And you went on to become the best spook ever.” Mundy said, recalling the portrait at the Ministry.

“Something like that.” Lucien smiled. “Here, this is all black and old, but it used to be silver and shining bright.” He handed a thin, yet very old string of metal to Mundy. 

“It’s a bracelet?”

“It bears my name on it. It is a common gift that young children are offered here. I kept mine because it reminded me of my mother, whom I loved beyond everything else. Oh and this is a very old and worn out thing now, but I used to wear it to cover my mouth and nose, for people to not recognise me when I worked to liberate France.”

“It’s a black bandana?”

“It used to be Burgundy red.”

“We could give a polish to your bracelet and a good wash to your bandana. I’m not good with clothes but I’m sure there’s ways to bring it back to life.”

“I think so, oui. Ah, there it is… Although it is broken, this used to be the bracelet that I offered to Marie, when we first started to meet each other regularly.”

“It’s a pearl bracelet?”

“Oui, I have always liked pearls on women, I think it might be because my mother used to have a pearl necklace that she treasured more than anything else. It was a gift from my father. I remember as a child, I one day found it as I was prying into whatever I could lay my hands on in the house and she told me off for touching it.”

“Oh, wow…”

“Wow indeed.” 

Mundy took a second to look at the way Lucien was looking at his belongings from another life. His eyes were almost dreamy and his gaze, very soft, filled with nostalgia and bittersweetness. And soon, the smile widened and it was not an awkward listing of antics but objects that threw the Frenchman’s mind back when pictures were only black and white, when uniforms were compulsory at school, when with a Franc, you could buy a mountain…

“Oh, I am enjoying this actually, Mundy.” Lucien raised his eyes to his lover. “Thank you so much, mon chéri.”

[My darling.]

“You're welcome. See? It’s better to acknowledge everythin’ and even if it's bad things or mistakes that you can only blame yourself for, so be it. The only way to repent I guess, is to not make those mistakes again.”

“You speak truth and wisdom. May God keep you by my side for as long as we want.”

“Amen, baby.”

“Thank you for… Well… Half-forcing me to do this. I realise that I should have done it long ago.”

“How d’you feel?” Mundy asked. 

“Better, lighter in a way.” Lucien wiped a silent tear. 

“Hey, you sure you good?”

“Oui, it is not tears of sadness. It is… The intensity of all this. Finding myself in the Ritz again, but this time, not on duty, not for business, just for our enjoyment, the breakfasts, lunches and dinners here now taste so much more flavourful, I never realised that their food was exquisite. I knew it but I never felt it as much as I have in these past few days. And the outings with you, seeing the sights, guiding you through Paris, telling you her story. It is better than a dream come true.”

Mundy smiled compassionately.

“Lu’?”

“Oui.”

“Happy first anniversary.”

“Oh…” The Frenchman dived head first into his lover’s chest and let the tears run down his face. 

“It’s ok, Lu’, I’m here.”

“This is why you wanted to take me to Paris?” Lucien pulled himself out of his lover's embrace.

“Yeah, for our anniversary.”

“Je t’aime, Mundy.”

[I love you, Mundy.]

Lucien took his handkerchief out and wiped his face. 

“Je t’aime aussi, mon Lucien.”

[I love you too, my Lucien.]

[karsonisnot]

A New Family.

It has been about three months since tommy had gotten close to schlatt, Sam, and Charlie. Really the catalyst for all of this was Shalott breaking the news that he was, in fact, Tubbos father. 

During this time, they all moved in close together, and really got to know each other. Shlatt started his recovery from his addictions During all of this, and he became kinda like a father figure to them all surprisingly enough

He walked on the prime path, remembering the one time they were all at Schlatt's house while he was slightly drunk, giving life advice. In fact he was so in his own thoughts that he didn't see his actual father right in front of him.

"Tommy."

He looked up to see philza, staring him down. He was clearly not happy for some reason, and Tommy immediately got nervous.

"Uh… hi Phil. Whats… what's going on." He says, laughing nervously.

"What's going on is that I've heard your getting close to… certain people."

"Uhhh, okay? Why does it matt-"

"What's up with the pin?"

Tommy looked down at his red jacket, and looked at the tiny pin on it. Schlatt gave it to him, an exact copy of the little schlattcoin pin he sometimes wears on the collar of his shirts. 

"Oh yeah, the pin schlatt gave me."

"What the actual fuck, and your wearing it?!"

Tommy looked at his father, who had gotten slightly closer.

"I...I mean yeah? He's actually pretty chill n-"

"HES A FUCKING POLITCAL TERRORIST."

"Wha- hes a nice guy now, whats ur fuckin issue man?!"

Philza got even closer, too close for comfort. Tommy Tommy gave a slight side glance just to break eye contact, but swore he saw someone move in the shadows, making him more nervous.

"I don't want you to be around him." Philza said, coldly.

"Wh-what? No. Why do you even fucking care, you haven't even had a conversation with me in fuckin months?!"

"Because he's dangerous!!"

"Excuse me?! You fuckin blew up a country with me in it, don't talk to me about dan-"

He was cut off the image of a man with long pink hair jumping from a tree. He hadn't even realized techno was even there. Before he could react though, wilbur was at his side, with a fucking knife.

"What the absolute fuck is happening." Tommy said, backing up.

"Toms. If your a friend of schlatt, your an enemy of us." Philza said.

Tommy was stunned. Yes his family had been complete assholes to him, but to kill him? Not only that, their motivations fucking sucked.

"What, fucking why! I haven't even seen you in forever. I don't even want any beef anymore!"

"Well, can't have beef if you're dead." Techno said, and then charged.

Tommy dove out of the way, not ready for a fight. Techno turned on his heels, running towards him. He also heard what was most likely wilbur behind him. He was dead.

But, all of a sudden, techno got knocked in the head by a bottle, so hard it broke.

Tommy didn't have time to see who it was, and rolled out of the way of a knife coming down on him. Tommy saw the knife hit the ground and heard wilbur cuss loudly, immediately before he heard a voice behind him.

"Don't move wilbur."

He looked in the direction of the voice, to see Sam standing there, aiming a bow directly at wil. He looked in the direction where techno got hit, and saw jschlatt. And techno very much about to overpower him. 

Seemingly out of nowhere, Charlie appeared, and hit techno with an arrow. Causing him to back off. Immediately Tommy noticed that techno wasn't wearing any armour for some reason. Maybe thought it was going to be an easy fight. 

"What the absolute fuck do you three think your fucking doing?!" Schlatt said, holding the broken jack Daniels bottle. 

"Well, this is interesting." Phil said, being protected by techno.

"Tommy. What prompted this." Sam said, still concentrating on wilbur.

"I don't know! I just… they… they fucking jumped me… for making friends with schlatt."

All of a sudden, schlatt looked at phil, gripping the bottle tighter.

"You motherfucker." 

"Right, because you're the upholder of morals yourself, schlatt." Phil responded.

"At least I'm not ambushing my own son in the middle of the night for existing."

Sam all of a sudden, sam let the string of the bow go, hitting Wilbur in the head, instantly killing him. And reloaded, pointing at philza.

"Give me one reason not to shoot you right now, and leave techno to get beat to death by a bottle."

"Well, because then you'll be killing Tommy's precious family."

All of a sudden, rage fumed in tommy. He realized something after that sentence. And being with this group of people after the past three months, he felt less… alone. He felt at home. Like… like… he has a family. And for Philza to use the blood he was born into against him. He… he felt attacked.

"Your not fucking precious to me at all you bitch."

"What the fuck are you-"

"NO, YOU LISTEN TO ME FUCKER." Tommy raged at Philza's backlash. "You… you have caused me nothing but pain. You have been nothing but against me since the beginning. You've… you've been the worst father ever. Blowing up the country I care about, making me feel small, being a bitch to me. Im… done with it. I'm done with you. I'm done with all of you. I never want you in my life again."

"Tommy, don't be irrational. Where else are going to go to… were your fucking family." Philza said, backing up a tiny bit.

"No. Fuck no. You were never my family. In fact, I don't need you a lot at all. In fact, schlatt

… schlatt has been more of a dad to me then you ever were in the last three months. And unlike techno and wilbur, sam and Charlie have only ever come to my defense and have been… been like brothers to me. If I dare say it… they are my family now. Hell, they are always here for me! While you've done nothing but… but neglect me."

Philza stood stunned. Techno lowered his sword. 

"Im… did… did you really just disown… us?! Philza said, now shaky. 

"Yes… yes I did."

They all went silent for a second. Charlie now at schlatters side, who was looking at tommy, slightly shocked. Sam still trained on the older man behind techno. 

"You should leave." Charlie said, finally speaking.

"Yeah. Or i'll put an arrow between your eyes." Sam said. 

Techno looked at Philza, who only nodded, and they both took off, knowing this wasn't a fight worth getting into with their current lack of gear.

Sam lowered his bow, and walked towards tommy. Schlatt and Charlie both lowered their defenses, Schlatt dropping the bottle. 

"Tommy… im." Schlatt said, walking towards him.

"I know… i probably messed up… im sorry, I shouldn't have said yall were my… family."

"What, no. Don't be ridiculous." Schlatt said, pulling Tommy into a hug. "You're always welcome into my home… my family."

All of a sudden, Tommy felt a sudden relief… and… happiness.

"Hell, you two, get your asses over here." He motioned to Charlie and Sam, while still holding Tommy in a half hug.

Charlie and Sam stood next to them, Charlie standing on schlatters side, getting slatts free arm around his shoulder. Sam on Tommy's side, getting schlatters hand halfway on his shoulder.

"You know what. I have an actual son, tubbo. However, I am aware that all of you don't really have a family, and you wanna know that, that isn't fair. I've seen how you three get along, and I can see the brotherly bond you all have. After tonight, I feel like maybe, just maybe, it's time to expand my family a little bit. So how about this. I'm your new dad. Even if it's not official, I can and will always be here for you. Like a father should. And I have no doubt in my mind after tonight that you will be like brothers to each other."

"...you know what, hell yes." Charlie said. "I am 100% in."

"Fuck yeah brother, I am so in." Sam said.

"So… what do you say tommy, are we your new family… dare I say your new SBI?"

Tommy looked at Schlatt, already knowing his answer.

"Absolutely. Let's fuckin do this."

Sam took Tommy into a headlock out of excitement. After he let go, and they all had their laugh and little celebration, they made their way back to their houses. The new family, ready to face whatever may come.

[stardustryewriting]

Friends with Benefits never work (2)

Part 1: here

Also on Ao3:  here

Please, we need to talk

Sanji had sent that message exactly ten minutes after Zoro had stormed out of his apartment. That was a month ago by now. After Zoro left the building with Sanji’s apartment in it, he ran straight home, locked himself into his apartment and didn’t leave it for two days. He even called in sick to work, sent Luffy to voicemail when he called and ignored Nami, when she had furiously banged on his door, demanding answers.

On the third day, he decided he can’t hide from everything forever, so he went to work, called back Luffy to apologize for being absent and sent one last text to Sanji, before blocking him.

There is nothing to talk about.

Nami had been on his doorstep fifteens minutes after the text was marked as read and had screamed more profanities than Zoro had ever heard in his entire life before. He blocked her out after the first ten minutes of screaming, let her get it out of her system and then told her he was very sorry she felt about it like that, before shutting the door in her face. That didn’t stop Nami though. Instead she just called him to complain about that, too. And then threatened him, that she would actually break his door down, if he had the nerve to block her, too. Zoro didn’t think Nami possessed the physical capabilities for that, but he wasn’t willing to test it.

So, he was missing the big group gatherings in order to avoid Sanji. He did have Luffy, Usopp and even Franky over for the occasional game night, Nami stood at his door trying to get answers out of him once a week and even Robin and Chopper came over once. Robin had invited herself to tea, but contrary to Zoro’s expectation, she hasn’t lost a word about him and Sanji, so he just let her. All in all, the only thing he hasn’t really seen in a while was the bar. And Sanji’s face.

It was manageable. He could live his life like that.

It surely was better than having Sanji, without really having Sanji, at least. The clear cut was good for him and Sanji would be able to move on. It would be easier for Sanji than it was for Zoro, because Sanji didn’t have nasty feelings to get rid of first.

It hurt to think about it like that.

*

„You know what I’m missing?“, Luffy asked, both hands on his controller, not looking away from the TV for a second. How he had the capacity to concentrate on their current match and think about something else entirely would always be a mystery to Zoro. And the cause of a headache for Usopp.

„Not now, we’re this close to winning“, Usopp answered pressed, as if he was in actual physical strain. Maybe he was, their opponents were decent enough. Nothing the four of them couldn’t manage, but better than the last ones they had, for sure. Zoro was surely enjoying the challenge and Luffy was too, if his giggles were anything to go by.

They did win, in the end but by a scratch, because Luffy started arguing with Usopp, that he could play a game and think about something else, just fine. Usopp never argued against that, just said that he himself couldn’t play and talk at once. Somehow Luffy thought this was funny, too.

„What are you missing?“, Franky asked, to get the two out of their argument and Zoro went to the fridge to get himself a new beer.

„Sanji’s food. Playing and eating Sanji’s food were always the best evenings“, Luffy proclaimed and Zoro almost lost his grip on his bottle. Good thing he was still in the kitchen or the others would have seen that.

„Are you stupid? You can just say this near Zoro“, Usopp whisper-yelled, probably hoping Zoro wouldn’t hear him. Too bad the walls in his apartment were paper-thin. So, Usopp knew. Then it was safe to assume that Franky and Brook knew, too. Damn Nami.

„Oh right“, Luffy spoke, sounding way more panicled than the situation called for, „I forgot. You think he heard us?“ There was his way out of this. If he just came back, pretending nothing had happened, he could avoid this entire uncomfortable situation. So, as a distraction he grabbed his phone and opened the Delivery app, before walking back into his living room.

„Hey guys, I’m a bit hungry, you wanna order something?“

As expected Luffy took it without a second thought. Usopp looked at him slightly skeptical before reluctantly agreeing and only Franky seemed to be really suspicious, but he didn’t say anything either. So they ordered their usual, way too big for four people order and Luffy basically inhaled half of the food himself. Usopp and Franky ate more like real people did, Zoro’s beer stash took a big hit and no one thought about mentioning Sanji again.

Only when they went to go home, did Franky stay behind to tell Zoro that it is okay, if he didn’t want to talk about it yet, but Franky knew for a fact, that his walls were thin enough to hear everything. Zoro deliberately did not invite Franky to the next game night.

Franky didn’t seem too mad about it.

*

„Is it Thursday already?“, Zoro asked, when he opened his apartment door to go to work and was instead greeted by Nami standing in front of it. Something which has become his normal routine on Thursdays in the past two months. Zoro could have sworn it was Tuesday though.

„It isn’t!“, Nami informed him, still sounding less than amused. How she managed to uphold her anger for so long was a mystery to Zoro. „Last Thursday you went to work earlier than usual. To avoid complications like that again, I’m visiting you at random times from now on.“ Which meant he couldn’t even prepare himself for Nami’s rants anymore. Just great!

„Don’t you have better things to do?“, Zoro questioned, because he could hardly believe that this thing that happened two months ago was important enough for Nami to change up her entire routine.

„I would yell at Sanji, if he was the one that made a mistake. But unfortunately you’re the only one to blame here. So I’m blaming you, as I should!“

And Zoro was barely withstanding the temptation to argue, that first of all, falling in love with Sanji wasn’t a mistake he made voluntarily and second of all, it was in the rules that anyone could end the relationship without having to give a reason. But arguing with Nami had never ended well for him. And according to past experiences it went worse the more aggravated she was. And Nami was very aggravated right now.

„You mean there is something you haven’t said already in the past two months?“, Zoro asked instead, making his way past Nami to get on his way to work. Nami however, wasn’t even irritated by that and just fell into step next to him. And pulled him into the right direction for his bus stop, muttering about how useless Zoro’s was with directions.

„There are a lot of things I haven’t said“, she insisted and Zoro did the usual thing of blocking her out, when it became apparent that she going into yet another rant. Hearing Nami blame him for basically everything that ever went wrong was always his favorite start into the day. How Vivi managed to handle Nami all the time was beyond Zoro. (It really wasn’t, it was the same way he handled all of Sanji’s shit. Because they were in love.)

„Zoro!“, Nami screamed next to him and alerted the entire bus stop to their conversation. Luckily enough at this time in the morning, there were only five people there. Those five people however were going to get to show of their lives, if Nami’s annoyed expression was anything to go off. Zoro really hated his life, sometimes.

„What, witch?“, he inquired, trying to keep his voice down. Too bad, Nami didn’t care about their audience.

„You weren’t listening to a word I just said, were you?“

„I tend not to listen, when you go into rants.“ That was the single worst thing he could have possibly said. He realized that too late. He should learn how to think, before he opened his mouth.

„You wanna tell me, that I tried to fix your relationship with Sanji for months and you don’t even listen to me! You’re the worst“, Nami screeched, jabbing her finger into Zoro’s chest accusingly, looking like she was thinking about just ending him there and then.

„There is no relationship to fix!“ He got mad now, too. Because Nami had the audacity to imply that she was doing something for Zoro, when all she did was annoying and harassing him. She might have his best interests at heart, but she had to know she was going too far.

„There could be if you weren’t so damn - you!“ Using ‚you‘ as an insult was something only Nami could do this effectively. She always had a very special way of pissing Zoro off and right now she was doing everything in her might to get it done.  

„Goddammit Nami, get it trough your head. I don’t want a relationship. I want consistently good sex, some good conversation and someone to take the edge of life.“

„You just described a relationship, dumbass!“  And she had the nerve to look triumphantly like this single thing had won her the entire argument. It hadn’t, Zoro was willing to continue. Unfortunately his bus chose that exact moment to arrive, so instead of going all out, he had to be happy with just throwing another I do not want a relationship at her.

„Yes, you do“, Nami sang and he would have loved to answer her, but the doors fell shut, giving Nami the last word. He already hated that day.

*

When he got back home, he had way too many texts from Nami, all reading as some variation of Call Sanji. He ignored them all, opened himself a beer from his fridge instead and turned on the TV. Mostly for background noise, he hadn’t properly watched TV in years. But he couldn’t have the silence right now, because it got him thinking and thinking always eventually led to Sanji. Thinking about Sanji was bad.

Because Sanji was way too great, really. And Zoro was a good-for-nothing.

Sanji was great. Getting trough what he got through in his childhood and making it out okay wasn’t easy. Not only did he make it out okay, he somehow saw all the worst things the world could throw at a child and instead of turning resentful, bitter or hateful, he became kind. He was always first to help people, he fed even strangers when they needed it and he did it with a smile.

And that was one kind of a smile. It lit up his whole face, without splitting it in two like Luffy’s tended to. It made Sanji really look like the sun. Sometimes, Zoro thought, he would be blinded if he looked for too long but at the same time he couldn’t seem to look away. Sanji was something to behold.

Zoro’s smiles were never that bright, he always looked like he smirked. Arrogant, someone even described it as cold once. Nothing to behold, nothing that would be hard to turn away from. Just same old Zoro. Nothing special.

Sanji also always managed to make himself useful, wherever he went. He brought food, or offered to cook, he helped to plan and execute events, kept an eye on everything going smoothly and then stayed afterwards to help clean up. He made the entire wedding cake for Robin’s wedding from scratch even refused to have her buy any ingredients. Zoro just showed up. Robin had actually seemed surprised that he wasn’t black-out drunk by nightfall.

Sanji was always so meticulous about his work tools, his knives and pots and whatnots. (Zoro had said something vaguely bad about it once, and Sanji had never talked about it to him again.) He loved his job, did it with a passion, he had ambitions. Zoro loved sword-fighting too and he would one day defeat the current champion, but it just wasn’t the same. Sanji wanted to feed people, Zoro wanted to be the very best swordsman. It was hard to compare those two.

Also Sanji always took such good care of himself. Zoro knew Sanji smelt like ocean salt and smoke, a very unique combination that was entirely Sanji’s own. When he came fresh out of the shower, the smell of lemons lingered in his hair. It made Zoro go wild. There were no marks on his body - not even the stupid little scars everyone had - his skin was like porcelain despite his childhood. Zoro knew it was soft to the touch, with many firm, defined muscles despite Sanji’s lean figure. By far the best thing were Sanji’s hands tho. They were soft like the rest of his body and if Zoro concentrated he could still feel them ghosting over his body, mapping it out carefully. God he had loved Sanji’s gentle touch.

In comparison, everything about Zoro was rough. He had more scars than he bothered to keep count of, both because he was constantly around swords and because he had been an especially stupid child. His skin wasn’t soft, he always had some bumps or bruises from training. His muscles were defined too, but they were big, making Zoro’s entire frame big. He was once described as intimidating. (That same person had described Sanji as friendly and approachable.)  His hands definitely weren’t soft. They were rough, with many callouses, that came from holding swords regularly since he’d been ten. He even smelled like sweat, most of the time.  

He could see why someone - why Sanji - saw him as a good lay and nothing else.

*

Saturday morning, way too early on his free day, someone rang his doorbell. Very consistently. Probably Nami, Zoro thought and was still trying to get his sleepy brain to remember how to put the damn thing out, when said person started knocking on his door in addition to ringing the bell. So, no more sleep for him then.

He opened the door forcefully, fully prepared to give Nami a real piece of his mind for harassing him this early on a Saturday. He wished he would’ve never left the bed, when he saw Sanji, instead on Nami. Even though Sanji seemed about as angry as Nami usually was, not that that was of any help for Zoro.

„You’re an Asshole“, Sanji snapped at him, storming by him, to let himself into Zoro’s apartment. Zoro looked after him, helpless to do much else.

„You are the absolute worst!“, Sanji roared again, standing in the middle of Zoro’s living room. Zoro slowly closed his door and made his way towards Sanji.

„You want something to drink?“, he asked instead of reacting to Sanji’s accusations. Big mistake.

„The audacity! You avoid me for months and you don’t think you owe me an explanation!“

„I don’t?“, Zoro had wanted to state, but it came out more like a question. It riled Sanji up regardless.

„Do you know how long we’ve been doing this for? A year, Zoro. I sacrificed a whole goddamn year of my time and you decide to waste it without giving me a reason for that. I don’t even care if its a good reason anymore, but you owe me some kind of explanation.“

„The rules - your rules, said I don’t. We don’t owe each other shit“, he reminded Sanji, because honestly, Sanji could be mad about Zoro’s abrupt leave and blocking him and everything else if he wanted. But he didn’t get to be mad about Zoro sticking to the damn rules, like he insisted for weeks.

„Who even cares about rules at this stage? You wanna tell me you obeyed all the others?“

„I did“, Zoro lied easily, because lying about his feelings for Sanji was something he’d done for ages. It came naturally by now. Sanji however seemed shocked into silence, before his face fell and he lost the tension in his shoulders. He just seemed to fall into himself. Like the only thing holding him upright was anger and now that it was gone, he threatened to just fall over.

„There is someone else, right?“ No there wasn’t. There never has been and at this rate there never will be. But Zoro didn’t know how to express that, so he stayed silent. Sanji drew his own conclusion from that.

„I’m sorry for bothering you then.“ And with that Sanji vanished again, out of the apartment and out of Zoro’s life.

*

Nami came to visit him with a furiousity, Zoro had seen way too often in the past months. She abandoned it completely, when he opened the door with watery eyes.

„You need to talk with Sanji“, she said a few days later over coffee, „really talk. Not one of you dominating the conversation and the other barely getting a word in.“

„What makes you think he’ll talk to me again?“, Zoro asked, skeptical, stirring his coffee for the tenth time now.

„Leave it to me“, Nami offered, being more helpful, now that she abandoned the idea of screaming at him for everything he did and didn’t do. „I know how to get him to you. You just make sure you know what to say, when he’s there.“

So, Zoro got the hard part again.

*

„To be absolutely clear, I’m only here because Nami insisted I came“, Sanji said, instead of a greeting or maybe it was supposed to be his form of a greeting. Zoro’s nerves were way too tense, to focus on what Sanji might or might not mean. He just wanted to get this over with.

„I want to talk to you. Really talk. And if you still want to hate me afterwards, you may“, Zoro answered without bothering to respond to anything Sanji said before. He just needed to keep focus on his goal here, and then everything would be alright. (Or it wouldn’t but he would have tried and that was all that counted.)

„First, I am sorry for running that night. I should have listened to you. You wanna tell me what you wanted to tell me back then?“

„It doesn’t matter anymore“, Sanji spat, looking defiantly at Zoro and crossing his arms in front of his chest. Great, Zoro thought, this was already a less than ideal start.

„Okay, second. I didn’t end this thing, because there was someone else. There wasn’t, never has been. I had a good reason to end our arrangement but that wasn’t it.“

„I’m supposed to believe that?“, Sanji asked incredulous, giving Zoro a look that told him just how ridiculous Sanji thought he was right now. Why could the guy just not take things at face value?

„I am in love with someone“, Zoro admitted, for the sake of keeping Sanji there until he was finished, „but it wouldn’t lead to anything, anyway. So there is really no reason to end everything just because of that.“

„You’ve tried telling them?“, Sanji implored and really Zoro hated that Sanji decided to focus on this and not on the more important matter. What did Sanji care if Zoro was in love, and if it was unrequited?

„No, I didn’t. Didn’t have to. He’s some really great guy, who deserves the world and I’m just -.“ He gestured vaguely at himself, hoping Sanji would understand what he tried to tell him. Sanji raised an eyebrow at that explanation, but stayed quiet otherwise.

„Anything else?“, Sanji asked impatient and Zoro tried to cram his head for something, anything to say. The only thing remaining was to tell Sanji about his feelings. At least that was the only thing that would probably get Sanji to stay and listen a little longer. Or it would drive him away permanently. This could go two ways, really.

Apparently, his decision took too long, so Sanji decided to speak instead: „Figures. Here’s the verdict: I hate you.“ And with that he turned his back towards Zoro, making his way back to the door, and Zoro knew he had lost him forever. There was no going back to what they were before.

„I know, but I love you and I can’t stop it no matter how hard I try“, Zoro said, because this whole thing was going up in flames anyway, so he might as well make sure nothing but ashes remained. Maybe it made a new start easier, if he knew none of the old things were save-able. And if Sanji wanted to vanish from his life for good, he should at least know the truth.

„This whole friends with benefits thing was doomed from start. I broke rule 1 before you even put it in place. I’m sorry for pulling you into this.“

„Not your fault. I let myself be pulled“, Sanji answered getting close to Zoro again before continuing, „maybe rule 1 was the most useless out of the bunch. You never obeyed it, and I failed it after barely a month, too. The only thing it managed to do, was tear us apart in the end.“

There was so much there to take in, things that would have to be discussed, but Zoro didn’t care. Because Sanji’s lips were on his again, finally, and his tongue did explore Zoro’s mouth like it was the first time again. He did this thing, were he pulled Zoro’s lower lip between his teeth and then bit lightly and Zoro was in heaven. He wanted to see Sanji naked again, he needed Sanji everywhere around him and on top of him, and he never ever wanted Sanji to leave again.

Sanji seemed to have the same things in mind

[a-student-out-of-time]

OH MY GOD- THAT’S MESSED UP!!

Do you really think broadcasting anything about this is a good idea?

If we try, I’m sure they’ll kill those two...or worse. We can’t risk it.

So...w-what are we supposed to do? D-Do we just...do what they want?

No! We’re not just going to listen to them and expose Hajime! You heard what else they want?! They want Kotoko and Jataro too...

They’re not taking Jataro from me. Not now, not ever.

So what’s the plan?! We spend two weeks trying to find these guys?!

There has to be something! They can’t hide from us forever!

If we find them, what then? Do you suggest we go in guns blazing? There are only fifteen of us, against who knows how many of them. It is not sound strategy.

I agree that we should not give in to their demands...but two weeks is a long time. And they are aware of it, which may mean they have entrenched themselves somewhere secure or are on the move. Finding them in time may not be possible...

Don’t freak out....Don’t freak out...

W-we....umm...w-w-we sh-should....nngghh...

What do we do?!

...Fuck!

I’ll tell you exactly what we should do.

*Hajime stands up on a table*

We’re not gonna give in to any of their demands, alright? Not one.

And you wanna know why? Because, just like I said before, this is a declaration of war. And this was just them reinforcing it.

Do you really think they’d honor any deal we made with them? No. As soon as they have Kotoko and Jataro, along with Mahiru and Hiyoko, they’d sell all of them off just to make as much money as possible. That’s the kind of worthless human garbage we’re dealing with here. We can’t give them any leniency.

Here’s what we’ll do instead: two weeks might be a long time to search, but it’s also a long time for us to prepare. Sora-san, Yoruko-san, you both know where to find Hashimoto, right?

I’ve been working on it.

You wanna bring him into this?

Not only that, but I know some people who owe me a favor.

To handle this, I think we’re gonna have to call in the Kuzuryu Clan.

W-W-Wait, you can do that?!

Sure. Kuzuryu Fuyuhiko’s a good friend of mine, and I saved his sister’s life.

Two weeks, alright. That means we need to put everything we’ve got into this: figuring out where these bastards are, getting ready for a fight, gathering allies, strategies, all the things we’ll need.

If I can ask...what about lethal force?

That’s still off the table. But for different reasons this time.

I uphold that rule because I don’t want to turn you all into killers. But here?

Death is too merciful for them. The kind of hell we’re going to rain down on them isn’t even comparable. We’ll make them regret the day they ever decided to cross us, hurt our friends and hurt children. They are going to pay for everything they did a thousandfold. 

We’ll save Mahiru and Hiyoko, and we’ll do it without playing their game. I already played a game like that once, where I had to choose between one hope or another. I took another option, and I won.

This? It’s like playing on easy mode, up against some cowards who can’t even put on a convincing act on TV.

So what do you say, everyone? Two weeks to prepare? That’s no problem for us. We’re the Quantum Crew, we’re changing the future! This’ll be nothing.

[fasa-umich]

Bea Fandiño, FASA 2020-21 Co-President

One Last Time

We’re gonna teach them how to say goodbye...

3/19/2021

Wowee, what a whirlwind of a year. These past twelve months have been filled with so much to be proud of—I even started a list of “Proud Mom Moments” last May so I could document all the small triumphs worth recognizing. It’s as if I’ve been planning out this testimonial since my election into the Co-Presidency, so I only laugh as I try to put all these thoughts to paper the day after my testimonial was supposed to be done (sorry ading Janielle—Filipino time, am I right?).

“Pick up a pen, start writing.”

I want to start off by saying that this year was not easy. It wasn’t for anyone. Our board came into our tenure hitting the ground running, full of visions and concrete plans for FASA, only to have them thwarted time and time again by circumstances out of our control. Let it be known that if this was a normal year, our board would have absolutely crushed it. x1000.

But it wasn’t a normal year. And you know what? We still crushed it. We changed the game. And while it can be so easy to focus on what could have been, doing so would distract us from celebrating everything that was.

This was the mentality Izzy and I pushed at the onset of the summer. Yes, FASA has traditions. There are certain aspects of our programs that everybody loves and expects to see each semester. But FASA is also dynamic. Every year, boardies are challenged with finding the balance of upholding tradition while trying new things and pushing the boundaries. And with the nature of this year, there was no better time to challenge ourselves to do the latter. Because we wanted to do more than just “survive”—we were ready to reach new heights.

Pinay Power looking fire as hell

So what exactly was FASA this year? If I had to choose one word, it’s resilient. Bouncing back after each hurdle, our boardies refused to give up on this org; as did our members, who stayed with us through it all. PCN can’t happen in person? Cool, let’s turn it into a frickin’ MOVIE. Can’t have big group gatherings? Okay, let’s leverage our FAM’s to build stronger small-group bonds. Can’t travel to external orgs? No big deal, let’s organize virtual discussions with our Michigan Philippine Student Associations and our fellow Latinx friends on campus. Even in the face of adversity, FASA resiliently remained rooted in culture, tied together in family, and strengthened by our dedication to the community.

Pop quiz: What are the three ~pillars~ of FASA?

None of this could have been accomplished without the perseverance of our board. Without Janielle’s commitment to high quality. Sean’s willingness to ask important questions. Josh’s contagious, positive energy. Kris’s flexibility and open mindedness. Christine’s constant, uplifting support. Lauren’s willingness to step up for anyone and everyone. Angelina’s dedication to collaboration. Jason’s careful consideration for vision and purpose. Jolene’s innovative ideas. Estelle’s passion for navigating cultural discussion. Kate’s constant communication and initiative. Sam’s critical eye when we’re overthinking things. Kaitlyn’s honesty with what she believes is best. Izzy’s never-ending drive to make sure each person feels heard and supported. To my boardie family, you are an absolute inspiration. Your work ethic is unmatched, your care invaluable, and your determination a force to be reckoned with. It has been a true honor to work with you, to learn from you, and to be your friend.

“And I know we weren’t perfect, but I’ve never felt this way for no one.”

When people ask me what my favorite aspect of the Co-Presidency is, I actually find a strong parallel with my past experience as Performance Chair. In performance, you get to see people grow throughout the year, building up unique confidence and boldness through cultural expression. As Co-President, I had the honor of seeing that growth extended as I watched those same individuals rise as leaders and come to own their position in FASA. Through the trials and successes, to be granted a front-row seat in that journey is a privilege, and I thank each of my boardies for letting Izzy and me join along for the ride. We definitely took a more hands-on approach this year (hopefully you didn’t get too sick of us, lol), and with that, an even deeper understanding of the efforts and motivations of the people who make it all happen. And being challenged to make the tough calls, actively listen to what people have to say, take action to move forward, and use my voice to stand up for what I believe in, I learned just as much from my boardies as they (hopefully) did from me. Even as Co-President, there is always more FASA and Filipino culture to explore, as well as more to learn from those around you.

“I wanna talk about what I have learned, the hard-won wisdom I have earned.” -Boomers

On that note, FASA would not be standing so tall—well, as tall as a Filipino can be—today if it weren’t for our general members. To my first years: Your energy is what kept FASA fueled this entire year. To my sophomores: Thank you for sticking with us, engaging with our programs, and keeping FASA a part of your life. To my alpha dings juniors: Literally, I can’t imagine life without you. To my grad student population of ~2 (and growing!!): You are history in the making! Keep the momentum going! And to my seniors: I’ll save the sappy goodbyes for when you leave my life forever in a month (mom and dad, I already know I’m gonna cry and you’d best believe I’m bringing you down with me). But in all seriousness, your constant support over the years has shaped FASA into the community we know and love.

Like I said before, FASA is dynamic. It’s ever-changing. But even if the FASA 10 years from now is different from the FASA we know today, the impact we have made on each other’s personal and cultural journeys remains true. That’s the beauty of this family—stripping away the official title and positions, at the end of the day, we’re all just defining our own Filipino American experience together. And though FASA will continue to change, that personal impact is something that will stand the test of time.

“No matter where life takes us, nothing can break us apart...I just wanna be with you.”

Okay yeah yeah, I know I’m a sap, just let me be Feelings Chair for once. Before I wrap things up, there are a few people I want to acknowledge:

Mai-Ly and Elisa: X FAM BEST FAM!! Seriously, you should be incredibly proud of yourselves as FAM Heads. X FAM broke records this year, and I could not be more happy with the top-tier music videos, hella extra [exclusive] merch (other fams be jealous), COASTERS (lol), and overall stronger fam. Thank you for putting up with my sometimes overly Type A agendas and being so flexible amidst the craziness.

Kris and Josh: Long! Live! FASA! Performance! You guys were faced with a lot of difficulties this year. But in the end, you kept performance not only alive, but also fun and something members looked forward to, whether virtually or in-person. I am so incredibly proud of you and honored to have been your dancer :).

Izzy: The Isa to my Bella, the Pierogies to my Beaf. Thank you for being the absolute best co I could possibly ask for and the most amazing friend in the world. You challenged me to keep the big picture in mind and were integral in helping all of us (especially me) balance hard work and fun. As someone easily caught up in the grind and instinctively expecting others to be the same, you kept me in check and indirectly reminded me to take a breather and make sure board was enjoying what they were doing. I will forever have a love-hate relationship with our three- to six-hour calls, and you will always have a spot in my GCal for a Thursday night meeting-turned-dinner-turned-therapy session. It baffles me to think that we weren’t that close before 12 months ago. Thank you for being not only my inspiration as a leader but also my constant as a friend.

Team Isabella 4 Life

So where do we go from here? Admittedly, we couldn’t do everything we wanted to do this year. Izzy and I had a vision for FASA, and it can get discouraging when you’re not able to see your vision through. But at the end of the day, we had to accept that we might not be able to reach the end-goal. If the best we could do right now was focus on the present, make the most for our current membership, and set FASA up for future success, then we were gonna give that our all. And if the INCREDIBLE drive and work ethic of our Interns is an indicator of anything, I have full confidence in the passion, leadership, and people that will continue to join our organization and further its growth. FASA is in good hands—I can’t wait to see where it goes next.

“Your position is so unique.” “So I’ll use it to move them along.”

Looking back on why I ran for board in the first place my freshman year, I remember wanting so desperately to be able to give back to an organization that had given me so much. Thank you, FASA, for giving me the opportunity to do just that. Whether as a general member or Performance Chair or Co-President, I hope I’ve been able to create that safe space that makes FASA feel like home. I said it last year, but I will say it again—FASA, thank you for trusting me. It’s been an honor growing with you.

Mahal na mahal kita,

Bea Fandiño, FASA Co-President

[fluffypeachwriting]

Ten✧Shi makes their debut!

Everybody meet my idol oc group! I’m so excited to finally start making content for them, and I hope people like them! Under the read more are profiles and introductions to the group and members! Art by me!

Feel free to use the inbox to ask them questions! Give them a warm welcome!

Group Intro:

Hello everyone! We are Ten✧Shi! We are a group of four high school teachers in Japan and an idol group! This is our first group interview so please enjoy!

We chose the name Ten✧Shi because there are four (四/shi) of us and our kind students said we were like angels (天使/tenshi) of the idol world! The four pointed star in our name represents each of us coming together to be brighter, but it also represents a compass and our hopes of guiding people to their shiniest future!

For our debut we’ve gone with a more mature concept, taking the theme of angels and putting a modern spin on it!

We were previously school idols, formerly two duos known as ‘Savvy x Spiffy’ (featuring Natsuki and Ryu) and ‘FINEST♡’ (featuring Yui and Haru). Our school idol careers mainly consisted of a local rivalry, but a friendly one. Now we realise that our duo concepts were too different to compare fairly, which is why our competition ended in a stalemate during our third year. However we want to thank our fans, friends and family for supporting us back then.

Ten years on from our last performances we’re back as a quartet! We hope to inspire people around the world with our live shows, with our new concepts and songs. As adults in our late 20’s we want to show the world what we’ve learned since then and just how powerful we are!

We want to thank our students for pushing us to form a group like this, and due to their amazing support we couldn’t have entered the upcoming amateur adult idol tournament, designed for people like us!

Natsuki:

Profile

Height: 6’2 / 187cm

Birthday: July 19th

Star Sign: Cancer

Pronouns: He/him or They/Them

Image Colour: Mint Green

Self-Introduction

“Hi everybody! I’m Natsuki, the leader of Ten✧Shi! I didn’t think I could be a leader, but the other three were so insistent, I couldn’t resist their cute little faces! They said I’m the glue that keeps us together, but I don’t think I put special effort in, I just want to see everyone be the best they can be, Y’know? I just wanna take you all in and squeeze you tight! If I had all the time in the world I’d talk to each fan because you’re all so valuable to us!

I only became a trainee teacher in the past few years, but I’m sooo happy to see my old pals again! I love exploring lyrics in music, I am a Literature teacher after all!! I hope the songs I write in the future will inspire all of you to do your best! There’s so many different types of idol music, but I do love electro swing the most. It’s just the kind of music you can put on and dance around with! I’m so excited to dance with my friends again!

My charm point? Hmm… I don’t really think about that too much, but I’d say it’s that I’m willing to drop everything if my friends need me! I guess I also get compliments on my voice a lot. Of course I train hard as an idol, but I’ve been singing since I was tiny! Maybe that’s why I can’t sing so loudly… Oh you meant something physical? Ahaha… well, it’s a little embarrassing, but I overheard Ryu say I have “like, super toned abs. It’s so unfair.” Does that count? What?! No!! I’m wearing my work clothes I can’t just take it off!! I can’t let the students see me like this!!!”

Journalist’s Note: Due to popular demand, an exclusive shirtless photoshoot was taken shortly after the interview. Please view our Instagram page for a sneak preview.

Ryu:

Profile

Height: 5’11 / 180cm

Birthday: March 5th

Star Sign: Pisces

Pronouns: He/Him

Image Colour: Light Blue

Self-Introduction

“Make this quick, I don’t want to lose track of time and be late for- Oh you’re recording already? Fine. I’m Ryu. And I want to start this by making something clear. I’m not the same teenage boy I was last time I was on camera. The whole playboy persona isn’t gonna fly as an adult. I have a reputation to uphold. I’m a senior staff member of the school now, I can’t be seen dancing in shirts that are barely buttoned up anymore. And I’m especially not calling any of my fans ‘my kittens’. That shit’s embarrassing. Wait, I mean that it’s unacceptable. Can you edit that?

As I said, I’m high up in the school now, so I have a lot more to worry about than back then. And that also includes being part of a bigger group. Yeah, I love those guys, but you can’t deny they’re a handful. It’s kinda weird. In the old days I’d be the one running off and getting us into trouble, but now I’m… uhh… am I stuck-up to you? I really don’t wanna seem that way to students. Why are you laughing? Oi, what’s that face for?

Huh? Charm point? Who cares about that? Oh yeah, I’m the visual center. Okay, whatever. As an idol I like to focus on my body as a whole, but if I had to highlight an area I’d choose my legs. I’m not super tall, but my legs are kinda long, and sometimes Natsuki would latch onto them so they can’t be unattractive. The guy’s got some strange taste but I guess I trust his judgement. He is our leader, after all. Hm? When does he do that? I mean just like if we’re chillin before we go to bed. Yeah? Yeah, we live together. Wait!! Don’t cut the camera let me explain!”

Journalist’s Note: We didn’t cut the camera.

Yui:

Profile

Height: 5’8 / 172cm

Birthday: August 30th

Star Sign: Virgo

Pronouns: She/Her

Image Colour: Light Pink

Self-Introduction

“Hi hi! I’m Yui! I’m a PE teacher and the choreographer of the group! I love love love to dance, even without thinking about it! Dancing is such an amazing way to express yourself. If you’re alone and you need to get some energy out just move your body to the rhythm of your heart! Dancing as a group is so amazing too! Watching our lives shows back and seeing everyone do the moves I made is such an indescribable feeling!

I never thought I’d be a teacher, but I really love it! There’s a lot of hard work involved, but it’s all totally worth it. I know PE can put a lot of stress on students, so I don’t force anyone to do anything, and I try to make everything super fun and accessible! All of my students are so lovely, people really don’t get that kids are humans too, with such rich lives and stories to tell. Honestly I’d rather help out kids that need guidance than spend time with some of the grouches that teach here. EW!

My charm point…. Is my eyes! Connecting to our audience is so important, and I always focus on making the right expression, it’s just another way I can get across my feelings! People say my eyes are always full of life! I also love love love seeing students get inspired by my dances. When their eyes light up it’s like a whole new path has opened up in the world! I hope everyone supports us and we can all make new paths together! Love you!!!”

Journalist’s Note: Yui’s interview is an hour longer than the others. For the uncut version, please visit our site.

Haru:

Profile

Height: 5’5 / 165cm

Birthday: July 29th

Star Sign: Leo

Pronouns: He/Him

Image Colour: Yellow

Self-Introduction

“This is Haru. If I sound moody during this interview, blame the others for waking me up this early. This is earlier than I get up for work. But this isn’t about work so I shouldn’t complain. Hm? Yeah, I’m a maths teacher. I know it’s like the least interesting subject for most people. And I feel the same way. But when I was a kid all of my teachers were hell-bent on teaching their way or no way, so I chose to use my good grades to get a job here, and understand how these kids work as individuals so I can teach them in a way that they understand.

I’m the composer for the group. After high school I was in a rock band for a while. The split wasn’t in vain so it’s all good. And they’re fans of my idol stuff. Being able to write music helps out now, but I’ve still got a lot to learn! Music’s so great, it can lift your spirits or bring you down, which isn’t always for the best, but that really shows how powerful it is! Getting up on stage and feeling the adrenaline shoot through you is addicting and I feel so alive when everyone’s into the rhythm and you feel like the night could last forever... Looking back on some of our recorded performances, I notice how intense I get on stage. It’s a little weird to see myself so… energetic. Is it weird? No? Wait, people like it? You’re just saying that because I’m here. Hey, don’t show me comments on our debut MV, that’s unnecessary.

Charm point… The dark circles under my eyes don’t count even thought people point them out a lot, so I’d say my fang. I have a canine tooth that sticks out a bit, see? The others think it’s cute, but there’s nothing cute about me. What? My fans would say- No I don’t need to hear any of it. There’s no such thing as a charisma centre! I’m not cute and my face isn’t red!”

Journalist’s Note: As a school idol Haru won #1 ‘Cutest New Idol’ as voted by the public. As of the date of the interview, he holds the highest all-time number of votes in a single poll.

[fba-art]

Just out of curiosity, why don’t you like young justice??

aight, so i knew i was gonna wait to respond to this ‘til i had some time to explain.

and i want to start out by saying that i don’t think Young Justice, as a property, is a bad show. in fact, i think it’s a show that had GREAT potential. i watched every new episode via livestream every saturday lol. and now, i’ll be honest when i say it’s been some time since i’ve rewatched it, and i’m always open to changing opinions. a few years back, i wanted to give it another, fresher perspective and dove in for a rewatch, but ultimately didn’t finish. i don’t remember my reasoning exactly, but i recall being disappointed.and it’s funny i received this ask this week, b/c my friend and i were planning on giving it another rewatch for shits and giggle after finals ( sober or not is tbd ).

but so, here’s where i stand on the show.

i started watching YJ when it was abt 5 episodes into s1. and i binged those first five and stick to my guns that holy SHIT 1-3 are bomb as FUCK. super strong start! Independence Day will never not get me SO HYPE and remind me why i fell in love with DC’s teenage heroes in the first place. it’s so… youthful. a fun conversation for another time.

and now, when i started watching YJ, it was like four months into my making my TT!Kid Flash rp blog, and two months after i’d gotten into reading comics; when i found out Wally was like a biG DC CHARACTER, NOT JUST AN OLD CARTOON ONE-SHOT, i went EVERYWHERE to get my hands on more about Wally West. ironically, the first purchase i ever made from a comic store was a silver age Teen Titans tale, issue #2 of TTY1, and two issues of the old Young Justice comics ( still some of my favorite comics to this day; more on that later ).TL;DRi saw a commercial for YJ, ft. my fave DC char and my fave comic title and went “HOSHIT”.

as the episodes pushed the show’s plot along, it was fun and explorative of a more intense side to the idea of a group of superteens in the DCU. and again, very TEENAGER-Y, which i say in the BEST of ways, considering that was the target audience as well. but, as part of that audience at the time, one of the things that had started to bother me was the character relationships. yeah, i was loving on most of the main cast at the time, but for the first half of the season, the team’s supposedly-close friendships were pushed to the backburner ( EXCEPT for KF and Rob’s, which was one of the only things that got me through the season ). the first season WAS about straining relationships. the social drama was palpable. you NEED conflict in your plots, and char-v-char is especially fun. but i remember feeling like there was little bonding. they were a group of acquaintances, learning to co-habitate the same space- not to say that they didn’t seem like friends, but there was a lack of balance between “teens being professionals in their field” and “teens being immature teens”. both were squeezed in, but both consistently felt forced.

which brings me to the next point: forcing relationships without developing them!i wasn’t sure why i was supposed to care about Roy, like. At all. the team always bringing up that they trained alongside him, grew with the guy, and then??? nada, except when the plot needed edgy tantrumy angst.then there was spitfire. i ship spitfire now, but the ENTIRETY of s1 i was SO FRUSTRATED, because all those two did was bicker. wally was pretty foul to artemis, who was also just plain mean to wally. and i say this with the two of them as my TOP FAVE CHARS.and don’t get me STARTED on the best char on the entire team, KALDUR’AHM!!!! who was shit on by EVERYONE– fandom and plot, alike. actually, i do recall in my last rewatch starting two tallies of everytime kaldur was DISRESPECTED and TREATED LIKE GARBAGE BY TEEN AND ADULT CHARS, versus everytime he was treated respectfully. this boy was BRUTALIZED through s1.m’gann and conner, too– a cute concept, but borderline cringey, even creepy, at times. i was rooting for supermartian. i was. but it was like the writers didn’t know how to write a slowburn. the idea was honestly better on paper than in execution.

the YJ spinoff comics filled in a lot of these gaps, i’ll admit. it explored the chars, their relationships, and their behavior in ways the show seemingly didn’t have time to do, and i LOVE the spinoff series. but i also firmly believe that you shouldn’t need a second media to fix the first. it’s capitalistic and no fun.

through the duration of the show, there were also issues such as the hiatuses. i don’t recall them coming with much warning at a time, nor sticking to much of a schedule. i don’t actually remember what they were for, either. but, before and after each of (three?? was it three?) hiatuses, the showrunners would introduce a new character during a new arc, give said character some liners or plot fodder, and do away with them for the rest of the season ( i.e Rocket, Zatanna, Garth and Tula, etc. ).

i have some other, nitpickier issues– why was wally That Way, why was clark Like That, how come bruce was the ENABLER the entire time, etc– but many can be argued as whether they affected the show as a whole or not.my actual biggest problem was the direction.the director.Greg Weisman.bc idk what the hell he was doing half the time, and i don’t think he knew, either. the writing wasn’t GREAT, but at least it was consistent. Weisman truly had a marketable property, a fan favorite, and one of CN’s best running shows at the time. but between the hiatuses, the writing’s faults, the insufficient character development, and a HUGE ego thanks to his fanbase, Weisman was unable to uphold the integrity of his show. there was both fan-pandering, AS WELL AS consciously going AGAINST fans’ wishes. there was that whole “Ask Greg”-thing, too, where he would get back to a fan once every blue moon and answer background questions about the show’s universe, which became a scene of hot debate. Greg Weisman became the JK Rowling of DC, and lost a lot of my respect with his lack of damage control, and impulse control.

then, with the very inception of the show– and i don’t actually know if i can blame weisman for this or not, but i wanna know who pitched it, otherwise– the show’s CONCEPT. why was Young Justice made with this particular cast of characters, cherrypicked through DC history, aged down or revamped or just cut-and-pasted where they didn’t fit? why was its concept, “COVERT TEAM OF ADOLESCENTS WITH SUPERPOWERS WORKING TOGETHER WITH LACK OF SUPERVISION”? why was the show called “Young Justice” when what they wanted was the TT v3 comics? WHY DID WE NEED TO TURN SUPERMAN INTO THE UNAVAILABLE-FATHER TROPE????? questions that will forever remain unanswered. that’s a lie, i can answer most of them, myself.but all in all, a show with great potential that failed in execution.

season 2, i actually enjoyed more than season 1– it felt like there was more of a handle on the story and cast, alike. did i approve of season 2 and what went down? debatable. but that’s a very subjective view. objectively, season 2 flowed better than season 1, but still didn’t follow through on subplots, nor resolved relationships or even characterization ( m’gann, girl what the fuck?? ). very little team bonding, save for, once again, two chars out of the whole team. again, another season of SO much potential, but one that fell short.

its pros, however– i really enjoyed the darker themes, getting darker as time went on. there was a lot of tragedy in s2, and different perspectives and walks of life to watch through different lenses. a much more diverse cast, and very different conflicts to tackle. i was impressed. i don’t think all the controversies were resolved, but i also wasn’t quite as upset that they weren’t; open-ended conflict is frustrating, but is a great lead-in to another season.

————which, for better or for worse, we weren’t supposed to have.i personally would’ve rather the show ended there, not quite on a high note ( are u fucking kidding me fjaoisdfjoaifio waLLY, this was during the n52, too ), but with a concrete END. of course there was more to explore, the world they’d built was a big one, but we didn’t need to.

i was literally just yesterday chatting w my sis, bc after school lets out, we wanna watch season 3. i really do. i’m upset that there is one, but i do wanna know what happens to my faves. and, on top of that, i’ve been meaning to do one BIG rewatch, anyways, to get me set up for s3. as a student of film, it’s a huge philosophy of mine to rewatch EVERYTHING and go in with the intent of giving it a fresh start and a clean slate– both medias i love, and medias i hate. it’s important to analyze pop culture critically, and even things that aren’t good can still be enjoyable.

for me, Young Justice wasn’t a phenomenal show to begin with, from its technological side to its creative team to its politics, and i stopped enjoying it pretty early on. but, that isn’t to say it didn’t accomplish GREAT things, and isn’t UN-enjoyable; it has its moments. also i would DIE for most of the cast, i fucking love the characters.

i don’t think anyone is wrong for liking Young Justice. i try to stay in the loop about it, and form new opinions based on whatever information is out there until i can get ahold of the source material. and, i do like aspects of the show. but ultimately, it just isn’t my cup of tea. 

[tumblunni]

Compared to One Sin And A Thousand Good Deeds, this new one has a really short entry? I’ve done all the research on it and nothing else ever seems to unlock.

The concept of an ordinary bird just deciding to become an eldritch being one day and actually achieving it is really badass! And it seems really innocent and non evil, even though its fairly dangerous. Its just a well intentioned cutie who still has the brain power of a small bird so it doesnt exactly fully comprehend the justice or punishments its meant to uphold.

I find it interesting tho that these two Abnormalities seem to be the same thing that just came from different places. Like i guess punishing bird is sorta like a baby One Sin And Hundreds Of Good Deeds? Or else theyre funny sitcom rivals, lol. “nuuu! I wanna be the punisher!!” “well you should have checked if the job was already taken before you transcended mortality”

I wonder if this wise elder punishbeast could help mentor the birb and teach it right from wrong? You could probably neutralize the birb’s danger just by letting them be roommates. And also building them some comfy bunkbeds and letting them decorate their corner of the room with stickers and just I WANNA BE KIND TO ALL THE MONSTROS EVEN IF IT KILLS ME, DAMMIT

Aww, its got a belly mouth! Thats so cute! I wanna feed crackers to its spoopy tummy fangs

And I love how its flavour text continues to remind you its kind of a dumbass underdog even as its warning you about how deadly it is. poor lil guy!

Anyway I’m only on the second day so far. Our employees are Joshua (the randomly generated first one i got) and Bunni (the custom me). Joshua won the rare drop flower crown thing from One Sin And Hundreds Of Good Deeds and Bunni won the wings from the bird but then josh died so i had to reset that day over, alas! hope someone can get those again cos theyre supa cute~

I’ve been headcanoning a bit with Joshua so far and I’ve decided he’s the one officially in charge of One Sin And Hundreds Of Good Deeds. they still send other guiltier employees over there whenever it needs to eat, but cinnamon roll Josh is like its best buddy main handler. He’s just constantly giving it brushie brushie and reading it stories and bringing it mcdonalds and being all ‘aww you~’ at its cute reactions to trying new stuff like that. I feel like the corporation probably initially tried to imprison this thing with force and extract its energy through more evil means, and Joshua was just the first person to realize it wasnt fighting back, and it was a goodhearted creature who would be happy to help humans if they just treated it with empathy. So now he’s officially the district manager for cuddling giant skulls! He still wants to try and pass a proposal to let him take it for walks outdoors though. Its really fascinated by modern stuff and rattles its teeth excitedly when he talks about this mysterious ‘fast food’ place where the donuts come from. “I MUST WITNESS THIS HOLYNESS!!” I feel like the poor thing has been alive for millenia but not really seen much of the world, its used to just self isolating and living for nothing except its Grand Purpose of judging sins. Josh is trying to convince it to express its individual personality and take a chance on truly experiencing life and trying to do what makes it happy. Like “why are you punishing yourself the most when youre the only one here who didnt do anything wrong?” And maybe its mentor/student parent/child relationship with Punishing Bird could also help with that, cos it would ease the burden of judging sins if they could share it. And seeing this confused lil chirper’s misinterpretations of sin and justice could help it realize that sin and justice arent necessarily easy to define anyway, and maybe talking about it with actual mortals could help figure out a better way to do this job. In this AU eventually Joshua would also ascend into a punisher abnormality through his love for them, and join them in giving his own new perspective on the moral dilemma. and then they’d all go YOLO and bust out the wall and go get a mcflurry or something. JUDGMENT FAMILY FOREVER!!!!

[sorenmarie87]

May they come back unscathed

Summary:  When a coven kidnaps Y/N’s mom, Sam and Dean step in. 

Square Filled: Case Fic (Kink Bingo)

Pairing(s)/Character(s): Jo x Reader / Dean, Sam, Ellen, Ash, Estelle (OFC), Rue (OFC), and the members of the cover (OFC) 

Word Count: 5,155

Warning(s): Case violence, Kidnapping, Angry Dean, Secrets, Language, Sexy times in a hot tub 

A/N:  This was written for @spnkinkbingo.

I do not own any of the pictures used in my story aesthetic. I also hate to say this but if you’re reading this fic - please be over 18.  

Shout out to the lovely @fictionalabyss for reading this over as I wrote it.  I wouldn’t have completed it without her help <33333

And then there were three Masterlist

Forever Tags - @lovetusk @coffee-obsessed-writer@mirajanefairytailmage@kazosa@soythedemonqueen@docharleythegeekqueen@holyfuckloueh@ellen-reincarnated1967@ravenangel33@buckyscrystalqueen@clockworkmorningglory@lefthologramdeer@disneymarina@ilovetaquitosmmmm@babykalika2001

Six months.

That’s how long the two of you had been trying.  

Six months had turned into a year and you were close to giving up.  Each time you saw that the tests were negative, it chipped away at you inside.

“Y/N, maybe we should stop trying for a while.  I’m not saying we stop altogether, just for now.  I hate what it’s doing to you…”

“That might be for the best.”  You whispered as Jo pulled you closer and you kissed her forehead.  “I’ll go talk to my mom and see if she has any advice.”

“Maybe she could do a card reading for you.”

“What if,” you paused and flipped over so that you were looking into her eyes.  “What if it’s bad news?”

“Then we’ll deal with it.”

--

Estelle had jolted awake after having one hell of a nightmare.  Rue was sleeping peacefully next to her, so she got up from the bed as quietly as she could and made her way downstairs.  Wiping away the sleep from her eyes as she walked, she made her way towards the den.  She knew that in a couple of hours, she would be making her way to the shop to restock some of the crystals and herbs that always sold out.  Estelle couldn’t shake the feeling that something was going to happen though.  

She was fidgeting with her engagement ring as she made her way to the shop.  Rue told her wear it this morning and to pack one of the tourmaline crystals in her purse just in case.  Her walking slowed as she spotted a ‘73 Cadillac Fleetwood parked across the street.  Estelle cursed as she got closer to see the door was ajar and the store looked like it had been ransacked.  

“Avis, I think I hear someone out front.”

“Delta, you know what to do.”  Delta grinned as she opened a bottle on her hip and poured some of the powder into her gloved hand.  Elsie watched the small panel of tv’s set up to monitor security and when Estelle made her way down the hall, Delta got into place.  She heard Elsie whisper now when she heard the door open, and Delta held her hand steady and blew the powder into the air.  

“What’s going on?”  Those were the last words that came out of her mouth before Estelle blacked out.  Avis pulled the mask down from her face and motioned to Elsie to pick up Estelle off of the floor.  

“All right ladies, let’s go home.  We have work to do.”  

--

The next morning as you were making breakfast, you dialed your mom’s number and pressed the green button.  It rang and rang until her voicemail picked up.  You left a brief message, and went back to finishing breakfast.  A few hours passed and you still hadn’t heard from her.  You called again with the same results.  You took a deep breath before dialing the shop’s number.  “Come on Rue, please pick up…”

“Seven Wonders, this is Rue, how may I help you?”

“Oh bless you for picking up.  Rue, it’s Y/N.  I was wondering if you’ve heard from mom today…  I’ve called her a few times and she isn’t picking up.”

“You know, now that I think about it, she left earlier than usual this morning.  I’ll try calling home and see if she picks up.  Give me a second, sweetie.”  You didn’t hear Jo walk into the room and ask you what was wrong.  “Y/N, You still there?  She’s not there.”

“Do you think….”

“Don’t you think the worst baby girl, we’ll find her.  Call Ellen, and see if she’s been at Harvelle’s.  I’ll call around and see if anyone has seen her.  I’ll meet up with you later, okay?”

“Thanks Rue, I’ll see you later.  Love you.”

“Love you too.”  You placed your cell on the kitchen counter as Jo wrapped her arms around your shoulders.  “Will you, call your mom for me?”  

“Of course, is something wrong?”

“I hope not.”

You watched Jo pull up the contacts on your phone, and when her finger was hovering over Ellen’s name, you went outside to sit on the porch swing.  It wasn’t like your mom to disappear like this.  You heard the screen door open and shut as Jo made her way towards you.  You looked up and she shook her head.  “I’m glad you’re sitting down for this…”

“Why, what’s going on?  Was she there?”  You felt your heart pounding in your chest as Jo took a seat next you and laced her fingers with yours.  

“Mom hasn’t seen her all day - “  You buried your face in the curve of Jo’s neck and tried to hold back your tears.  “Don’t you worry, okay?  We’ll find her.  I asked for Ash’s help too.”  Jo kissed the top of your head and waited for you to calm down before they walked over to the bar.  

Jo led you to an empty booth and rubbed your back gently before making her way across the bar.  You slumped forward and ran your hands through your hair, staring down at the table.   After sometime you shifted so that your chin was resting in your hand and you sighed.  

“Do you know if Ash has found anything yet?”

“Probably not, I mean he’s still in his room.  He’ll be out when he finds something, you know that.”  

You missed the way Jo’s face lit up when she noticed the boys were sitting at the bar.  The four of them were talking about anything and everything.  Ellen chided both of them, telling the two of them not to be strangers and to check in more often.  Sam chuckled as Dean turned around on the bar stool and looked in your general direction.  “Jo, what’s up with your girlfriend?”  

“Oh, um…”  Jo glanced at her mom, unsure of what to do.  

“Estelle, Y/N’s mom is missing.”  She heard Rue’s voice coming from the door and smiled as she walked over and gave her a hug.  “I didn’t want to tell Y/N this over the phone but when I came in, the shop was a disaster.  It looks like someone broke in but nothing from the store was missing…”

“Nothing except her mom that is.”

“Wait, you guys have security cameras at your shop don’t you?”  

“Oh!”  You looked over at the small group talking and frowned when you saw Rue.  She gently smiled as you got out of the boothe and made your way over to them.  She pulled you in for a hug.  “I can’t believe I forgot about the security cameras… Estelle, she’s better with technology than I am.”

“Sammy, why don’t you go and help Rue out.  See if anything shows up on those security tapes and if anything weird nabbed her mom.”  The two of them made their way out of the bar and Jo took Rue’s place beside you.  

“Dean, if you agree to help us, there’s something you have to know.”  Your voice was low but you needed him to know this.  “My mom, she’s a white witch.  I’ve heard from Jo that you hate witches but my mom would never do anything to harm anyone.”

“Estelle is good people.”  You heard Ash’s voice coming from behind you.  Dean sighed and you heard him grumbling about witches.  

“She can’t be that bad of a person if she raised you to be an all right person.”  

“Just alright?”  Jo smacked his arm and glared at him before he turned to look back at you.  

“I’m a fantastic person, you just have to get to know me better.”  For the first time all day, you grinned and winked at Dean who was speechless.  Jo released you with a chuckle as Ash handed you a bottle of water from behind the bar.  Jo was relieved that you were doing better but she knew that you wouldn’t be at 100 percent until your mom was found.  

Dean’s phone started ringing and when he pulled it out of his pocket and saw Sam’s name pop up, he answered it and put it on speaker before placing it down on the bar.  “What’d you find out?”

“Something nabbed her all right but get this - they used knockout powder before they took her.”

“Why would they want to knock her out?”

“They didn’t want her to know where they were taking her.”

“Did you get a good look at who took her?”  

“That’s the thing, it wasn’t just one person or at least that’s what Rue was telling me.”  

“How -”  You stopped yourself before answering.  It wasn’t your place to tell them what powers Rue had.  

“Y/N, do the names Avis, Delta and Elsie mean anything to you?”  You shook your head as you glanced over at Dean and Jo.  

“She says no…”  You heard Ash furiously typing away on his laptop behind you.  “If you wait a few minutes however, I think Ash is looking up something..”

“Okay amigos, I might’ve found something.  I did some digging into those names you mentioned and found out that it was a  coven that kidnapped Y/N's mom.  It seems like they were big into illegal activities.  Onenote to mention - they used to throw huge parties that would put Jay Gatsby to shame.  We're talking parties that ultimately ended up as orgies."  

Ash turned his laptop around so you could read more.  “The leader of the coven, Avis specializes in what they call sex magic.”

“Wait you mentioned Gatsby, when was this coven originally founded?”

“It says here 1926.”

“It doesn’t explain why they took Estelle though.”  Jo gently squeezed your hand in reassurance.  “We’re closer to finding her.”  

“I know, I’m just worried.”

“Sweetie, your mom, even though she upholds the ‘do no harm.’ aspect of being a white witch, she is a fighter.”  

“Were you able to find where the coven is based now or where they took her?”  

“You wanna tell her Ash or should I?”

“Tell me what, exactly?”  

“The last time I got a ping from her cell was around Grand Island.”

“Thanks Ash.. hey Dean, take me off speaker will you?”  You watched Dean pick up his cell phone from the bar and walk outside before clicking the speaker button off.  “Are we helping out?”  

“If I said this wasn’t our problem, I’m pretty sure Ellen would put a boot up my ass.”  Sam chuckled but he knew Dean was right.  

“I’ll head back to the bar.  Rue said she was going to stay here and clean up.”  

“I don’t like that she’ll be by herself…”

“Oh don’t you worry about me, sugar.  I can take care of myself, just please do whatever you can to find Estelle.  She’s all that girl has left.”  Rue smiled sadly as she handed Sam back the phone.  

It took Sam fifteen minutes to make it back to Harvelle’s.  He slid a piece of paper with a license plate number on it and asked if Ash could look it up for him.  

“No problemo.  Just give me a few minutes…”  

“I guess it’s better that 51 hours like last time.”  

“You can’t rush genius..”  You snorted out a laugh as you watched Ash work.  Whenever you didn’t find Ash sprawled out on the pool table or in back with a lady for the evening, he would teach you everything he knew about computers.  

“Hey Ash?”  He mumbled something of a reply and you chuckled to yourself.  “Do you by chance think, that the license plate number Sam gave you is from the car they used to take my mom?”

He stopped typing and looked over at you.  “If he got it off those security tapes, I have no doubt.  Y/N?  They’ll find her.”  You squeezed his forearm as Ellen called for you.

--

Kitchen duty.  That’s what Ellen stuck you with.  You could hear them talking in hushed voices about what the plan was to get Estelle back.  It wasn’t fair that they were trying to bench you, it was your mom that needed rescued.  You took your hands out of the soapy water, and rinsed them off intending to go back into the main area of the bar and give them a piece of your mind but Jo’s voice rang out and she sounded pissed.

“It’s not fair to exclude Y/N from the hunt.”

“Jo, there’s a difference between knowing how to hunt and actually knowing.  You know that.  She always stays back with Ash..”  

“It’s her mom though!  HAVEN'T YOU EVER LOST SOMEONE AND HAD TO DO WHATEVER IT TOOK TO FIND THEM!?"

“Joanna Beth!”

“You know what, I can’t be in here right now.”  Jo stormed towards the kitchen and when she saw you standing near the door, she paused.  You pulled her in for a hug with a small smile forming on your face.  “Pretty sure I just benched myself from this hunt.”  

“Babe?  Fuck him, Dean’s not the boss of you..”

“What about my mom?”  

“You’ll always be her baby and one day she’ll understand.  I can’t just sit here and not do anything while everyone else is out risking their life for my mom…”  You pulled back with a sigh.  “Okay so what do we need?”

--

The two of you talked it over before leaving a note for Ash.  You made sure to plan everything and on a three hour drive - you had time to hammer out the final details.  It turns out that there are two different motels on the same block, and you glanced over across the street while you were stopped at a red light.  “Shit, Jo, we may have a problem.  Impala ten o'clock.”

“I don’t see them, so we’ll be fine.  Now turn right up ahead… “  

“So bossy.”  You muttered and pressed on the gas.  Jo smirked as she moved over a little and placed her hand on your thigh.  “Not now Joanna.”

“Oh you mean business if you went full name.  I’ll be good.”  Jo winked as you pulled into the parking lot.  “Siesta Key Suites really?”  

“Would you rather stay across the street where Sam and Dean can find us?  You know what would happen then - Ellen would be here faster than you can REO Speedwagon and she’d rip us both a new one…”  

“I’ll go check us in, okay?”  Jo kissed your cheek gently and you watched her walk away.  You opened the passenger door and pulled out the bags you packed for this trip.  You were closing the car door when Jo came back with a set of keys.  “We’re in room 4… and guess what, this place has a hot tub.  I hope you packed a bathing suit.”

“Jo, I love you, but you know damn well I didn't.  Could you stop thinking with your hypothetical dick for a second?  We’re not supposed to be calling attention to ourselves…”

“Just one little late night dip in the hot tub, please babe?”

Jo reached for your hand and the two of you walked towards the room you would be sharing. “Fine.”

--

You were listening to a playlist on one of the laptops Ash formatted for you as you picked at your food and you could see Jo moving along to the beat.  “Babe… bring your phone and the portable speaker, I know it’s packed down in the bag.”  You peered over your laptop as Jo danced around the room.  “Babeeeee you promised!”  

You forced yourself to pause the music you were listening to and sat the laptop off to the side.  Unzipping the bag, you pulled out a small ball shaped speaker that plugged into your phone.  You screeched when Jo picked you up and slung you over her shoulders.  She carefully opened the room door, making sure the room key was in her pocket.  “Jo, put me down!!!”

“Nope!”

“Jo, please?”

“Uh-uh, not until we reach that hot tub.”  

You huffed and looked down.  “Joke’s on you, I have the best view right now.”

“I don’t know about that.”

“Jo, please.  Your ass is amazing, ask anyone.  Hell ask Dean, I’m sure he’d tell you the same thing.”

“You’re just saying that.”  You couldn’t see her face but you knew a light blush was forming on her cheeks.  

“As a person with no ass to speak of, yeah girl that booty is banging.”

“If I pay you, will you never say it like that again?”

“How much are we talking?”  The both of you laughed as you reached the area outside where the hot tub was located.  Jo placed you on your feet as you looked around.  “Okay this area is well lit and no one can sneak up on us, so we’re good.  Now I just need a ledge or something to prop my phone up on…”  

“Just put it down anywhere!”  Jo called out behind you, what you missed when were searching for the perfect spot was Jo stripping down to her bra and underwear.  You finally had a playlist pulled up and was just about to press play when Jo swept you off your feet and dropped you into the hot tub.

“Jo!  What the hell…”  She shrugged and chuckled darkly to herself.  “I think, you might be a little more comfy if you removed some of those wet clothes.”  She tugged at your wet shirt and you raised your arms.  Why bother resisting now?  You popped the button to your jeans and unzipped your pants slowly, as she watched.  “You know how earlier you were saying that you had the best view?”

She slowly moved towards you and unhooked your bra, throwing it on to the pavement.  You shuddered at the cool air.  “Yes?”

“I think.”  She nipped at your collarbone softly and you groaned.  “that the view I have right now, is one hundred times better.”  Jo lightly kissed up your neck and down your jawline until her lips found yours.  She placed your hands on her waist before switching sides and one of her hands caressed your cheek gently.  The two of you swayed to the music playing in the background and you rubbed small circles on her lower back, before moving your hand lower and grabbing a handful of her ass.  You felt her swat at your hand and you giggled, repeating the action on the other side.  Jo’s familiar scent of vanilla and whisky invaded your nostrils as she kissed your shoulder.  You were about to pull her in closer when a set of headlights illuminated the small area and Jo quickly pulled you underwater.  A couples minutes went by as the two of you popped up.

"Jo.. I love being that close to your pussy, you know I do, but why'd you shove me under water?" "Didn't want them to see us. And one of us had to watch-" "Honey. They'd recognize you faster than they would me.”  

--

"Hey, was that.. couldn't be, could it?" "What Sammy?" "I thought I saw Jo in that motel hot tub." "Better FUCKING not be." Dean pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and dialed Ellen’s number.  After a few rings, she picked up.. "Your fucking daughter better be where you left her."

“Don’t you take that tone with me boy, I’m not your mother but I will beat your ass.”

--

Jo was in the shower when you heard someone knock on the door.  Taking a deep breath, you dug through Jo’s bag, and grabbed her gun.  You placed it on the door before peeking out.  “Shit, shit, shit…”  You carefully unlocked the door and opened it.  

“What in the hell do you two think you’re doing here?”  

“Going after the witches that took my mom, what else would we be doing?”  You watched Dean’s face and flinched when the two of them stepped inside and slammed the door.

“Jo, I can understand.  She’s trained but you?  What use are you - if anything you’re dead weight.”

“Thanks for the reminder asshole.”  You clenched your fist and glared at him.  “What’s this really about Dean?”  You watched his face for a second before it dawned on you.  “Okay, really?   You’re jealous at a time like this… are you fucking kidding me?”

“Dean, really?”

“Shut up Sammy, this has nothing to do with you.”  You scoffed as your hand relaxed slightly.  “I don’t understand how she ended up falling in love with a witches daughter.”

“How we ended up together is none of your business.  Jo’s happiness is what should matter right?  Or what, you just want her for yourself, is that it?”  Dean shifted slightly and your eyes followed him.  “You’re unbelievable, you know that.  You can hate me all you want, Winchester.  I don’t need you to vocalize that - I can feel it.  I’m going to say this once - that girl in there means the world to me and I’ll be damned if I let some small dicked asshole try and tear us apart.  I love her and if you were her friend, like you claim to be, you’d support her decision.”  You needed to leave before you did something you regretted.  You were making your way towards the door when you heard the bathroom door open and Jo was standing in the doorway.  

“What the fuck?”

“I’ll be outside babe, I need a few minutes.”  The door opened quietly and you stepped outside.  

There was a lot of things running through your mind but most of them involved taking a baseball bat to Dean’s face.  You were half way down from your room when it hit you - how did you know what Dean was feeling?  The one person you could ask wasn’t there.  “Mom, what the hell is going on with me?”  

When Jo eventually came outside to talk to you, she found you singing Can’t Fight This Feeling softly.  “Here I thought Kevin Cronin sung it from the heart.”  

“He’s one of many.  I take it he’s still pissed off?”

“More so since I walked out to find you.”  You chuckled as she wrapped her arms your shoulders and pulled you closer.  “I love you, you know that right?”

“I know but why do I sense a but there?”

“I’m not going to lie and say that there aren’t feelings there for Dean.”

“Oh sweetheart, I knew that when you first introduced him to me.  I just -”  You bit your lower lip.  “Jo, I could feel how he felt.”

“How - I didn’t think you had any powers.”

“I - I have no idea.”  Your head hung down as you looked at the sidewalk.  

“Babe, we can ask your mom when we find her.”  You and Jo looked over as Dean’s head poked out of the door.

“Get back inside, now.”  

“...does he mean both of us?”

“YES, INSIDE NOW!”

The only sound coming from your hotel room was coming from the heater kicking on.  No one said a word.  You heard Sam clear his throat and you looked over your shoulder at him.  “I’m going to go for a food run.  Y/N, you wanna go with?”  

Dean snorted and you felt your fist clench up again.  “Yeah, of course.  Jo, do you want anything?”

“You know what I like.”  You kissed her cheek and pulled away with a smirk.  Your good mood didn’t last long though.  Dean muttered something under his breath and you swung, punching him in the face.

“Y/N, come on.”  Sam tried to stifle a laugh. He knew it would only earn him a crossed look from Dean, but it erupted anyway. It was the kind of laugh that shook his whole body, throw his head back, a deep chuckle roaring from his chest, relishing in his brother's misery  

Sam’s laughing died down once the two of you entered your car.  He held his hand out for the keys and you willing handed them over.  “I’m not entirely sure I should be behind the wheel of a car right now.”  

“I know you probably don’t want to hear this,”  Sam backed out of the parking lot and pulled into oncoming traffic.  “But I can understand why Dean is so pissed.”  

“Could you explain it to me?  I’m not trying to be an asshole or anything - I just can’t understand.”

"Dean doesn't want to have to watch Jo watch you die. Or what if she steps in front of a curse for you? And he's left watching his friend die." "For some bitch witch?" "No. Just in general. Dean's been doing this his whole life. He's watched so many capable people die doing what we do. People he cared for. He doesn't want to go through that again. He can't stop Jo, but he had hoped to stop you."

You sighed to yourself as Sam pulled into the diner parking lot.  The car shut off and you felt Sam nudge your shoulder with a smile.  He held the door open for you and even gave the waitress your order.  Sam heard you humming along with the music, so when a root beer float was placed in front of you, Sam watched a smile form on your face.  

“Oh wow, it’s been forever since I’ve had one of these!”  You took a sip from your straw and looked over at Sam.  “Hey Sam, can I ask something weird?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

“Can you maybe, only if you want to that is, can you hug me?”  Sam opened his arms and pulled you closer to him.  He moved your drink closer and you laid your head on his chest.

“That wasn’t so weird.  I mean look at who my brother is.  The weird ass questions I get from him sometimes…”  Sam shakes his head and you chuckled

 You thanked the waitress when she returned with your order and asked if it was possible to put the rest of your float in a to-go cup.  “Of course, just give me one second.”  She returned and when she handed you the cup, you pulled out a twenty dollar bill and pressed it into her hands.  The drive back to the motel was too short in your opinion but it had to happen.

“Babe!  Look~ Sam got me a rootbeer float!”  

Jo grinned as Sam made his way into the room.  "You tryna steal my woman, Winchester?"

“I would never.”

--

Estelle woke up confused.  She tried wiggling free but her arms and legs were bound to the chair she was sitting in.  Once her eyes focused, she surveyed the room around her.  “This is way too nice to be a dungeon.”  The door slowly opened as Elsie entered with a grin on her face that made Estelle shudder.  

“Oh don’t look so unhappy, this won’t hurt.”  Elsie twirled a carving knife in her hands.  “I was told not to harm that pretty face of yours - Avis’s orders and all.  The question now is where do I start?”

--

Ash called you in the morning with everything he found out.  You passed the message on to Sam because Dean wasn’t speaking to you.  After the boys went back to their hotel room, you had a long talk with Jo.  It was hard but you decided that when they finally went after Avis and her coven,  you would stay back.  Jo agreed that once you got back to Harvelle’s she would teach you how to protect yourself.  

“Come back to me in one piece, okay?”  The two of you shared a slow, sweet kiss before she pulled away.  

“You know I will.”  She made her way to the Impala and took the seat behind Dean.  He gave you a small nod before he pulled out of the parking lot.  

“Spirits, watch over and protect those three.  May no harm come to them and may they come back unscathed.”  You closed the door quietly with a sigh.  You spotted your laptop, and pulled up Netflix.  You were about to click on something of interest when you heard a knock on the door.  The knocking repeated until you opened the door.  The last thing you remember was someone blowing a light pink powder into your face and you calling out for Jo.  

--

“Y/N?  Y/N, sweetpea, wake up..”  

“Mom?”  You felt like someone knocked you out with a truck with groggy you felt.  “Where… where the hell are we?”

Once your eyes focused, you looked around the room but when you glanced over at your mom, you gasped.  “Baby, I know you’re worried, and trust me these aren’t as bad as they look.”

“What a shame, Elsie was so proud of her work after your little session.”  Avis was standing in the doorway with her arms crossed.  “I guess she’ll have someone new to practice on, won’t she?”

“Don’t you fucking dare.”  You heard her heels clack on the floor as she approached your mom and pressed a finger into one of her open wounds.  You heard her scream out in pain as a grin formed on Avis’s face.  You watched as she slowly removed her index finger and stared at the blood.

“Our blood is the same color but yet we’re not that same.  I’d rather get rid of the hunters who exist to exterminate us but yet you choose to willing help them.”  You watched as she flicked her hand and a speck of blood landed on the wall.  “I’ll be sure to give our newest guests your love, ta for now darlings.”  Avis sauntered out of the door and you heard the lock click.  

--

Jo was sitting in the backseat reloading all of their guns with witch killing bullets.  

Dean glanced at her through the rear view mirror when he heard her cock one of the guns.  He raised an eyebrow as Jo grinned back at him.  “I would’ve never thought of witch killing bullets.  These are amazing, Sam.”

“Dean, you might want to kill the engine.”

“This isn’t my first rodeo, Sammy.  I know how this works.”  He parked at the end of the gravel driveway and the three of them made their way towards the house.  Dean motioned for them to stop when another car pulled up and Delta carried you into the house.  

“Was that…”

“I THOUGHT SHE WAS SAFE AT THE MOTEL DEAN!  THAT DOESN’T LOOK SAFE TO ME!!”

“Jo, lower your voice.”  

“You said she’d be safer if she stayed behind.”  Jo’s voice cracked.  “I should’ve stayed with her… and protected her!”   

“Jo!”  Dean placed his hands on her shoulders and turned Jo so that she was facing him.  “Listen to me okay, we will get Y/N back, I promise.  We won’t be able to do that if you’re freaking out.  So I need you to take a deep breath for me.”  He watched her take a few deep breaths and when she appeared to be calm, they reformulated their plan.

[ohprettyweeper-moved]

Open Your Eyes (Part 4)

Chapter Summary: As Christmas Day nears, feelings get stronger.  Pairing: Tyler Joseph x OFC, Frank Iero x OFC Word Count: 2635 Warnings: None? A/N: I needed something fun and cute to write with low pressure so that I could stop worrying about a more serious piece I’m working on for a bit. This five-part crossover series was the result! It’s cheesy and fluffy and is probably akin to something you’d see on the Hallmark Channel, but that’s how I intended it to be. Thanks to @razor-tothe-rosary for your help and encouragement! Enjoy reading, everyone!

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Americus scrolled through her phone one morning, ignoring Vanessa’s emails and catching up on the industry gossip. She was slightly surprised when she came across a paparazzi picture of Emerson and Frank Iero coming out of a record store in Jersey together. She knew that the Vans photoshoot had gone well for her new friend, but she hadn’t realized it went that well.

“Canoodling with co-stars, huh?” Americus teased when Emerson answered her call.

Emerson paused for a moment. “What do you mean?”

“There’s pictures of you and Frank together in Jersey,” Americus explained. “I knew you were going home for the holidays, I didn’t realize you were going to see Frank while you were there.”

“This is exactly what I didn’t want to happen,” Emerson groaned. She explained about Jeff and the phone call on the day of the shoot, how she had become friends with Frank, and how Jeff had stood her up at the airport. “Frank rescued me, and I wasn’t ready to face my family, so I hung out with him for a little bit.”

Americus frowned. “It’s not a bad thing, you know. I don’t know Frank real well, but I’ve heard good things about him.”

“No, Frank is great. It’s just that I’m new to all of this, and I don’t want anyone thinking I’m using Frank or you or anyone to climb the ladder.”

“I’ve seen your work, you know. You’re climbing the ladder on your own. If you make friends along the way, there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s important to have people you can trust in this industry, honestly. Vans was a big deal, and you got there on your own. It can only go up from here, and it’s not going to have anything to do with Frank.”

“I guess,” Emerson mumbled. “I’m with my family now, but I’m going to call Frank. I’ll give you a call when I’m back in Los Angeles.”

Americus cleared her throat. “I’m actually doing some soul-searching of my own right now, and I’m in Columbus. Stay in touch, though, okay? If there’s anything I can do to help, let me know.”

“I will. Talk soon.”

Americus disconnected the call and tossed her phone to the cushion beside her. Emerson’s fear of being thought less of within the industry was precisely one of the things that made her want to get out. The littlest thing about one’s life could be misconstrued; it could destroy a prestigious career such as Americus’s or end one that had hardly begun, such as Emerson’s.

“Deep in thought again, daughter?” her father asked, coming into the living room with a cup of coffee in each hand. He handed one to Americus and took a seat at the other end of the couch.

Americus gave a small smile. “I’ve got a lot to be thinking about. I love the life I’ve lived, Dad. Really. I have no regrets, except that lately, I just don’t feel … well, grounded. That’s the word I keep using. I’ve never canceled on contracts before, until now.”

“That’s how you know this is important to you.”

“You’re right there. Being home again has been amazing, but it does still feel like a break. I know I need to go back to work, I just don’t know what work that will be.” She pressed her lips together. “Tyler offered me a job doing photography for their tour.”

“Tyler,” her father echoed. “That’s been a nice reunion, hasn’t it?”

“Daddy,” Americus said, rolling her eyes. “This isn’t about Tyler. Though, yes, it has been nice to be around him again. But to give up modeling -- everything I’ve built over the last fourteen years. I don’t know if I can do that.”

“Modeling wasn’t going to last forever, anyway. And, you know, taking a step back now doesn’t mean you’re done for good.”

They finished off their coffee in silence. With their mugs empty, Americus’s father excused himself to run his usual Saturday errands. Americus had some things to do herself, so she got up and got dressed, and headed out on her own.

Emerson let out a deep breath as she surveyed herself in the body-length mirror. Her sweater dress was pristine, save for the little piece of fuzz she picked off near her hemline. Her leggings would keep her warm, as would the socks and boots on her feet. Her hair was perfectly curled, her makeup flawless.

“Well, you look date-ready,” Tanya smiled from her place on the couch, curled up with Emerson’s soon-to-be stepfather.

“Thanks,” Emerson replied, one end of her mouth tugging upward. “I’m really not sure about this.”

“We know you’ve never wanted to do things this way,” Graham assured, “but Frank has been in this business for a long time. I don’t think he would lead you astray.”

Emerson didn’t think he would, either, but that didn’t make his plan any more appealing. What her mother and stepfather didn’t know was that when Emerson had called Frank about the pictures and the speculation, he had suggested they use it to get to Jeff and Sarah; to make their exes jealous, if nothing else. These weren’t the types of games Emerson usually played, but it had seemed like a better idea at the time than it did now.

When Frank arrived at seven o’ clock on the dot to pick her up, Emerson let him in the house and politely introduced him to her mother and Graham. Ignoring the meaningful looks in her direction, Emerson bid them goodnight and promised not to be gone too late, before she and Frank walked out to his car.

“Freezing out here,” she mumbled, dropping into the passenger seat.

“It is Jersey in December,” he reminded her. “You hungry? I’ve got reservations in the city.”

Emerson nodded. “I’m definitely hungry. But we don’t have to go all the way into the city, you know. We could eat around here. I don’t mind.”

“First of all,” Frank said, smirking at her as he pulled onto the main drag, “you deserve to be spoiled a little. Second of all, pretty sure New York City is a better place for us to be seen out together than anywhere else in the area.”

“That’s true.”

“We don’t have to go, if you’re unsure.” He reached for her hand, squeezing it reassuringly.

Emerson took a deep breath. “It’s not that I don’t want to go. I wouldn’t mind Jeff seeing me out there, better off without him, really. I’ve just never played games like this before -- always made a point not to, actually.”

“I like that about you. But sometimes, you’ve got to play the game. In this industry, Emmy, you have to show them that you can stick up for yourself. That you’re not a doormat, and that you’re not the innocent, naive thing they all think you are.”

Emerson withdrew her hand from his. There was something harsh and condescending in his tone. It made her want to get out of the car and walk home in the cold. Crossing her arms over her chest, Emerson sat back in her seat and spent the rest of the drive staring out her window.

Tyler came to pick Americus up this time, and when they saw each other, they couldn’t help but laugh. Americus’s sweater read, “Why is the carpet all wet, Todd?!” while Tyler’s read, “I don’t know, Margo!” The exchange was one of their favorites from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, so it was only fitting that their sweaters were coordinated.

“And we didn’t even have to try,” Tyler laughed, holding her steady as they walked down the icy steps of her father’s front porch. “Don’t slip. I about ate it on the way up.”

Not at all interested in a bruised backside or sore limbs, Americus held tight to Tyler’s arm as they awkwardly made their way to his car. When she was safely seated and buckled in, Tyler went around to the driver’s side, ready to get them to Josh’s place.

“I thought you said Josh lived in LA?” she asked.

“He’s got an apartment there and a house here,” Tyler explained. “We’re in Los Angeles a lot, but Columbus is home. You know?”

Americus nodded. “Yeah. I do, actually.”

“It’s been nice having you around here, you know. Spending time together again. Not that this is anything, you know, so don’t take it the wrong way, but I always wondered if you and I wouldn’t have became something if life hadn’t taken us in different directions.”

“Really? You would have wanted that with me?”

Tyler shrugged, suddenly wondering if maybe he shouldn’t have brought it up. “We were young. When you’re young and close friends with the first girl you ever kissed, those things cross your mind. But I’m kind of an emotional guy.”

“You are,” Americus agreed, “but I wondered it, too. You were my first kiss too, you know.”

Tyler couldn’t help but smile as he glanced at her from the driver’s seat. “I did know that, actually.”

Americus couldn’t help but blush and wonder if maybe Tyler had walked back into her life at just the right time, and for a reason she was just beginning to understand.

When they pulled up to the front of the restaurant, Frank handed the valet the key before opening Emerson’s door. She stepped out of the car, walking a few steps ahead of him. Just outside of the front door, Frank caught her by the elbow and pulled her aside. His hands mingled with hers, and he begged her forgiveness.

“I shouldn’t have said it like that, I’m sorry. I know the kind of reputation you’re trying to uphold and I’m not saying it’s wrong, but I am saying that you have to start sticking up for yourself if you’re going to make it, or your reputation isn’t going to matter. I think you’ve got a great future ahead of you. I want to see you make it. I don’t want -- I don’t want anyone to hurt you.”

Emerson swallowed hard. “Thank you, for the apology. It’s accepted. And for not wanting me to get hurt. I don’t want that either, but I also don’t want to become someone I’m not. I don’t want to be cold and callous and unfeeling.”

“There’s a balance,” Frank assured. “We just have to find it for you. Ready to eat now?”

Leaving one of her hands in his, Emerson nodded. “I’m ready.”

Frank smiled and led her into the restaurant. He gave his name at the front, and the host assured him that a table was waiting as reserved.

With their minor disagreement behind them, more pleasant conversation ensued. It wasn’t at all unlike their times together before; Emerson couldn’t believe how easy it was to just be around Frank. She didn’t have to pretend to be someone she wasn’t, or keep up appearances for work. In fact, by the time their food was served, Emerson had all but forgotten the reason they were out in the first place.

After dinner, Frank took her to Rockefeller Center. They took a picture together in front of the big Christmas tree there, watched people go by, and slowly made their way back to the restaurant.

When they crossed the Jersey state line, Emerson bit her lip. She knew what she wanted to say, but she wasn’t exactly sure how to say it. After another couple of minutes, she just blurted it out.

“I don’t wanna go home yet.”

Frank looked over at her briefly before setting his eyes back on the road. She could see that he was the one trying to fight a smile now, and it made her feel better about saying what was on her mind.

“Wanna go back to my place?”

Emerson nodded, shooting a text to her mother that she may not be home at all. Even as an adult, she didn’t want to worry anyone and add anymore drama to her vacation.

At Frank’s place, he offered her an oversized t-shirt to exchange for her dress. Her leggings would suffice for now, so she declined his offer of sweats and they settled on the couch with a couple of beers and Year Without a Santa Claus. The movie was Emerson’s favorite holiday film, so when she saw it on the guide, she pleaded with Frank to watch it with her.

As the movie started, Frank scrolled through his phone. Emerson asked if there was any reports of the two of them out in the city together, but he shook his head.

“Nothing yet. Don’t worry, I’m sure something will come up. Jeff will see what he’s missing.”

Emerson nodded and sipped at her beer, but she wasn’t really interested in making Jeff jealous anymore, she realized. She was only interested in what could develop with the man sitting next to her.

As the movie played and the two of them drifted off to sleep, Emerson leaning against Frank and him with an arm around her shoulders, Emerson started to wonder just how much her career would be affected if something with Frank started … or perhaps it already had.

The party was a blast. The crowd wasn’t too big, but it was certainly more than a group of people hanging out. Josh was nice and hospitable, conversed easily with Americus, and enjoyed hearing her stories about Tyler from their childhood.

Tyler never once left her side. Every wink he sent in her direction, everytime he leaned close to whisper something in her ear, chills invaded Americus’s spine. Her crush was quickly developing into something more, and while she wanted to see where all those what-if’s from long ago might lead, she also knew she had a decision to make regardless of her feelings for Tyler.

They stayed later, after everyone had left, and helped Josh clean up.

“That’s good for now,” Josh said, once all of the trash was picked up and the snack bowls were grouped on the island in the kitchen. “I’ll get the dishes and whatnot tomorrow.”

“You sure?” Americus checked. “It won’t take long between the three of us.”

Josh waved her off. “It’s almost one in the morning, it’s freezing outside. Get out of here before I change my mind.”

Americus smiled and hugged him. “Nice to meet Tyler’s best friend.”

“I was going to say the same to you,” Josh returned with a smile. “Good to know we can get along, if you decide to come work with us.”

Americus took a deep breath, glancing at Tyler. She should have figured Josh would know about the job offer; Tyler wouldn’t have offered it before checking with other people involved first. Still, it was strange to hear from someone else.

Josh bid them goodnight and saw them to the door; Americus had a tight hold to Tyler’s arm again so she wouldn’t slip but they both managed a wave back to Josh before getting in the car.

“Are we too old to do sleepovers like we did when we were little? I mean, before the whole boy-girl thing became an issue?” Americus asked. “I know it’s not the field like you talked about before, but I just feel … I don’t know. Can’t put a label on it.”

Tyler nodded and reached his gloved hand out for hers. “Yeah, I think I know what you mean. Wanna stop at your dad’s for clothes and stuff first?”

Americus nodded, lacing her fingers through his. They had more or less picked up right where they left off before her life moved west, and she wasn’t complaining one bit about that. There was some getting to know each other again that would have to happen, but she could accept that.

[nanadesuyo]

[Drama CD] 俺様レジデンス —西園寺三兄弟— -Oresama Residence- : Track 01 TRANSLATION

My first attempt at translating a drama cd!!

Oresama Residence is a drama cd series where you are hired to work as a housekeeper for the Saionji Household which consists of three brothers. The eldest son, Fuji (CV: Takeuchi Shunsuke), the middle son, Ran (CV: Yashiro Taku), and the youngest son, Gen (CV: Saito Soma). A promising pay and good looking guys but...there’s one problem. They’re all spoiled rich kid oresamas lol

You can read more about the story and characters here and here, translated by @clearui​

It’s a pretty funny CD and the voice cast is divine so here’s hoping my translations will get more people interested in this series~!

Something I’d like to say first though:

Please DO NOT repost my translations under any circumstances. Reblogs and likes are perfectly okay but please don’t post my translations anywhere nor claim them as your own. If you want to share them outside of tumblr, please just share the link to this post.

Track 01 | Track 02 | Track 03 | Track 04 | Track 05 | Track 06 | Track 07 | Sakuran Territory | Free Talk

Now without further ado, here are the translations the first track!

Track 01 – The Three Saionji Brothers

[00:00]

*birds chirping*

Fuji: *snoring*

Ran: Fuji-kuun~? Fuji-kuun~?

*door opens and closes*

[00:25]

Ran: Fuji-kun, it’s past 8:00. You should wake up by now, right?

Fuji: *snoring*

Ran: Eh? He’s still sleeping?

[00:40]

Ran: Fuji-kun, c’mon. Ooi~

Fuji: *grunts*

Ran: *sighs* There’s no helping it huh? *inhales* FU-JI-KU-UUN!

Fuji: SHUT UP!

Ran: Ah, you’re up. Good morning~!

Fuji: You little…You wanna get sent flying? You didn’t have to raise your voice, I heard you the first time.

Ran: Eh? You were already awake? Then the least you can do is reply.

Fuji: Shut up. It’s my wish to wake up when I want to. Tsk! You’re really such a useless guy.

Ran: What’s with that tone? You were the one that told me to wake you up at 8:00 yesterday, weren’t you? All I did was faithfully uphold that promise~!

Fuji: There’s a way to wake people up right?! A way to wake your older brother up nicely, go rehearse it and come back.

Ran: *sigh* …So annoying.

Fuji: Oi, you looked at me and called me ‘annoying’ just now, didn’t you?

Ran: Ehehe. What’re you talking about~? You sure you’re not just hearing things?

Fuji: Tsk. You double faced bastard…

Ran: I don’t wanna hear that from a perverted narcissist. And besides, I think it’s a pretty big problem if a man your age can’t wake up in the morning by himself.

Fuji: I don’t wanna hear that from someone can’t think about anything other than women and is forever in heat.

Ran: That’s the same as Fuji-kun, isn’t it?

[02:05]

*door opens*

Gen: Hey, you two are being really loud.

Ran: Oh, Gen. Good Morning~!

Gen: Don’t “Good Morning~!” me! What’s with all the commotion so early in the morning?! I told you, didn’t I? That I have an important mock exam today. Can’t you be a little considerate and keep it down?!

Fuji: If you have a complaint, take it up with Ran. It’s his fault.

Ran: No it’s not~! It’s Fuji-kun’s fault for feigning being asleep!

Gen: I don’t care who it is…or rather I don’t care at all. Ah~ah…this is the worst. I thought I’d get up early in the morning to review but nothing went in my head. If it doesn’t go well, it’s you and Fuji-kun’s fault okay?

Ran: My my, you’re more on edge than usual, exam taker.

Gen: I’m different from you easygoing people! Not to mention, you’re always always doing this only when I’m studying—

Fuji: I got it. I got it. Sorry ‘bout that~ Gen~! *pats Gens head*

Gen: Grr! I’m always telling you to stop treating me like a brat!

Fuji: You are a brat so there’s not helping it.

Gen: That part of Fuji-kun, I really hate it!

Fuji: I see. I see. Well that’s a problem.

Gen: That’s what I mean! I’m telling you that attitude of yours is what pisses me off!

[03:21]

Ran: Okay okay~! Gen, stop it at that.

Gen: *grunts*

Fuji: Hmph. Gen is still such a child, aren’t you?

Ran: Come now, Fuji-kun too. Please don’t add fuel to the fire.

[03:35]

Ran: Hm? Ah it’s already 8:30 now? Isn’t it almost the time for arrival?

Gen: Arrival? What’s coming?

Fuji: I told you before, right? Our new housekeeper.

Gen: Ahh. Now that you mention it, you might’ve said something like that…

Fuji: Honestly. Why do I have to wake up this early in the morning just for a stupid housekeeper?

Ran: There’s no helping it, is there? That father of ours went out of his way to call and told us to greet them courteously. That’s never happened until now, has it? It seems like there’s special circumstances this time around.

Gen: Who knows, who cares? They’re just gonna quit before a month anyway.

Fuji: Pfft. The reason they run away is pretty much because of you two, though.

Gen: What are you saying? No matter how you think about it, it’s because of Fuji-kun and Ran-kun, isn’t it?

Ran: No no. It’s because Gen and Fuji-kun make them cry, right?

Fuji: I just want to acquire tears as samples.

Ran: Even though because of that sample acquirement, you developed a crying face mania?

Fuji: *grunts*…Anyway, I’m different from Gen.

Gen: Huuh? It’s not like I wanna make them cry! They’re the ones that cry by themselves. I just say something and they’re like, “You’re so mean~!” Even though they can’t even properly do their jobs, they’re only good at flirting and making eyes at a man. Ah~ah, dumb women who are only after money are really disgusting.

Ran: I find it weirder if a woman isn’t good at making eyes at a man though.

Gen: And Ran-kun immediately makes a move on those idiots!

Ran: Well of course! It’s rude to not make a move if there’s a girl around.

Gen: No, don’t get defensive about that. Well, they’re just gonna run right away this time too.

Ran: Probably. Even I wouldn’t wanna come to this house if I were a girl.

Fuji: Hmph! Don't say stupid things! The Saionji house has me, you know? I've got good looks, good brains and my personality is the best! This absolutely flawless Saiounji Fuji-sama...

Gen: Uweh…there he goes again...

Ran: Shh! This isn't something you should interrupt!

Fuji: I think they should actually be grateful to be able to be beside a man like me but...I see! I'm too perfect that just by being close to me they feel pathetic...

Gen: Hey Fuji-kun...I think this every time but it's getting really cringy so stop it!

Ran: Like I said! Shh!! This thing with Fuji-kun, it's an illness okay?!

[06:00]

Reporter: Next on the news. The President of Saionji Group, Mr. Saionji Ryuutarou has, at 10:32 Japan Time, announced at the Los Angeles general meeting of stockholders, the takeover of the American company KSG. From this, the KSG has…

Ran: Ah~ah, Dad’s doing things flashy again.

Fuji: Hmph. And I wondered why he hasn’t been home lately, is this why? Actually, when was the last time we saw him?

Gen: Hmm? Umm…I think about half a year ago? Well, it’s like Dad. He has no interest in his own kids, after all, that person.

Ran: What’s this, Gen~? Are you lonely~? Want Big Brother to console you~?

Gen: I’m not lonely! That sorta stuff is annoying so stop it.

Ran: There you go again, getting embarrassed~! Gen is such a shy boy, aren’t you~?

Gen: Like I said, I’m telling you to stop it!

[07:00]

*door bell rings*

Ran: Ah, I think they’re here. The new housekeeper.

Fuji: I look forward to seeing how long this one lasts. Well, as long as I get a good sample I don’t care.

Gen: I’d like someone that stays quiet and listens to what I say. Oh! And a women that’s not an idiot.

Ran: Gen is always only on about that. For me, as long as she’s cute, I’m fine with anything~!

Fuji: Yeah…you’re the worst.

Ran: Fuji-kun is the last person I wanna hear that from~!

Gen: I think this is what they call ‘comparing the height of acorns’(1)

*door opens, footsteps and door closes*

[t/n] (1): Gen says ‘donguri no sei kurabe (どんぐりの背比べ)’ which is an idiom that translates to "comparing the height among acorns." It means to brag about or compare things that don't really matter.

Other translations: [x]

Please do let me know if there’s any mistakes in my translation or if there’s a better way to word things. ( ´ ▽ ` )ﾉ

[kassandra-lorelei]

N/CC prompt: "Do I really have to wear a dress to this thing?"

Here we are, my friend! Enjoy!

@missbabcocks1 @holomoriarty

“Do I really have to wear a dress to this thing?” C.C.turned this way and that, looking down at herself and studying the way the fabricmoved with her body. “It’s not an actual wedding!”

“Yer wearin’ a dress and yer gonna like it, missy,” Francalled to her from the main part of the living room. “I didn’t get ta gothrough months of planning and going over magazines for yer actual wedding, sowe’re doin’ it now.”

The producer rolled her eyes, “I thought the bride wassupposed to get a choice…!”

“Not when I’m in charge.”

That had been obvious the moment the idea was sprung on her.When C.C. and Niles had announced to the Sheffields that they intended to havea small ceremony to renew their vows and get their rings blessed, Fran hadjumped at the opportunity to make it as close to the real, grand thing aspossible. That had involved sending out invitations (strategically leaving outC.C.’s mother), hiring catering for the day, and – perhaps most importantly ofall to the former nanny – making sure C.C. looked every inch a bride.

Not that the producer was entirely convinced. As far as shewas concerned, the ceremony they’d had in the hospital delivery room had beenall the wedding she and Niles had needed. Granted, her father hadn’t been ableto give her away, and her brother would’ve been a riot at a reception, but thosethings didn’t matter quite so much as being married to her husband.

Her husband, whose voice was calling from the corridor intothe dining room and kitchen. He’d been out getting groceries, but had obviouslyjust come back.

“Hello! Anyone in?”

C.C. snuck a peek around the corner when she heard Fran runningtowards the butler. Then there was a small commotion as she bundled him back aroundthe corner.

“Ah, ah, ah! Back! Get back! Turn around!”

“What?” Niles sounded confused. “Why?”

“Yer lovely bride is in the other room, tryin’ on dresses.You are not allowed to see before the wedding!” Fran explained.

He huffed a little as he replied, as though holding back exasperation,“Mrs Sheffield, as much as I am touched that you want to treat this like anactual wedding, please appreciate that C.C. and I are already married. Therehas already been a wedding, and as such there can be no bad luck if I see her.”

C.C. couldn’t see, but she could imagine Fran making big, doe-likeeyes.

“Niles! I didn’t get ta do this fer you the first time! Iwanna do all the little traditions, and that includes makin’ sure ya don’t see C.C.in the dress before the big day!”

“Has she picked it, then?” Niles asked interestedly.

“She’s not deaf, Hazel,” C.C. called out to him, beforelooking down at herself again. She did like this dress. “But…I think I have,actually…if I really do have to treat this like it’s our wedding.”

She stepped out from the little cranny that she’d tuckedherself into to get changed, and made her way down the steps into the mainliving area. There was a full body-length mirror waiting for her, and shestudied how it looked from a distance.

Well, maybe with her hair done up and some nice jewellery…

Meanwhile, Fran, after checking that Niles hadn’t left hisplace one last time, turned and froze in place, apparently awestruck by thesight.

“Oh! It’s perfect…!” she exclaimed, clasping her hands overher heart. “I actually think I could cry, seein’ you!”

C.C. didn’t quite know what to say to that, but it didn’t matter because she didn’t endup getting a chance to say anything – Fran was on the move again before she could.

“Ooh, wait right there – there’s a bunch o’ flowers in thevase in the kitchen, I wanna see what it’ll look like with the bouquet!” theformer nanny hurried away, only apparently stopping for a split second to warn Niles.“Stay against that wall and don’t move a muscle. I’ll know if ya do.”

Her heels then clicked away towards the kitchen and C.C. wasleft alone in the living area, with her husband just the other side of thewall.

But it seemed that Niles wasn’t going to let the time pass insilence, “You think she’d actually know if I came around the corner andlooked?”

“Who knows what she knows and doesn’t know in this place?” C.C.began to smirk to herself. “She learned from the best yenta guide the momentshe walked in the door!”

She thought she heard Niles chuckle lightly, before asingle, sharp ring came through from somewhere else in the house.

C.C. looked around, “Was that the phone?”

“It’s in the kitchen,” Niles replied. “Mrs Sheffieldprobably picked it up.”

There then came a sound like shuffling feet, as though herhusband was trying to make his mind up about something.

“It…may have actually bought us some time. I could sneak apeek…”

“No, we should do as we were told,” she stopped him then andthere, back to looking at her reflection. “She’s doing her best to make surethis is all being done the way we like it. For the most part. I’m still notsure I need this dress, no matter how nice it is. A morning suit would be justfine…”

There was a pause before Niles spoke again, “Describe it tome.”

C.C. blinked, “What?”

“The dress. Tell me about it,” he said. “Then I can tell youwhat I think, without breaking our promise to Mrs Sheffield.”

“Oh. Well, that does sound like an okay compromise…” shesaid, biting her lip softly. “Let’s see…it’s ivory white. With a sweetheartneckline and kinda…thin sleeves, just over my shoulders. It goes all the way tothe floor, so I’ll have to pick it up a little as we walk, but that’ll be worthit ‘cause otherwise Nanny Fine’ll get ticked off that I didn’t show off myshoes as well. There’s no fine decoration or anything, but I don’t think itneeds it because jewellery would work just as well, and when I get my hair alldone up there’ll be plenty of room for a nice necklace and pair of earrings toreally stand out.”

There was another pause after that – a longer one. Honestly,it was a little off that Niles was being so quiet.

She tried asking, “Well, what do you think?”

“It sounds beautiful,” came the reply.

A very gentle…tearful reply?

C.C. leaned back, wondering about trying to see around thecorner, “Niles, are you crying back there?”

“…No.”

It was a lie, and both of them knew it. He was excited,imagining how the day was going to be, and finally getting to see her wearing thedress. C.C. didn’t want to assume, but she imagined he’d been waiting to seeher like that for a long time. Probably about the same amount of time he’d beenimagining her carrying their child.

And though the bump wouldn’t be visible on the day, it warmedher to know both had come true.

It had all been enough to help her decide. She wasn’t goingto disappoint him by not wearing the dress now, no matter if they were marriedalready or not.

She grinned, feeling her own eyes starting to well up just alittle, “I love you, Butler Boy.”

“I love you too…!”

She wanted to go to him and wipe away his tears, traditionbe damned, but a pair of heels signalled that Fran had come back, apparentlyfinished on the phone.

“What’s goin’ on out here?” she asked, concerned and alittle annoyed. “Niles, did you look when I specifically told ya not to?”

Intending to defend her husband, C.C. called out, “You havemy word, Nanny Fine, he did not look.”

The replied question was instant, “Then why is he crying?”

“Because I have the most wonderful wife in the world, and Iknow she’s going to look beautiful,” Niles spoke up, sounding like he mighthave been wiping his eyes on his sleeve.

C.C. beamed to herself, feeling the heat of blush coming toher cheeks. Not that she was going to show that to anybody – she might’ve beena blushing bride, but she had a reputation to uphold!

“Pfft. Sap.”

She heard Niles laugh, and then Fran made a noise like shewas touched.

“Oh, you guys…! Oy, I can hardly stand how adorable all o’this is!” she came around the corner to address C.C.. “I couldn’t find theflowers after all, they must’ve wilted an’ got thrown out, but that was Ma onthe phone – I promised ‘er I’d take the twins over fer a visit and she justreminded me I’m runnin’ late. Ya think ya can get out of the dress by yerself?”

“Absolutely,” C.C. smiled, before gesturing to herself. “AndI will take this dress.”

“Alright, good!” Fran clapped her hands together, delighted.“I have ta run an’ tell Max, an’ then I’ll get the kids and be goin’.”

She rushed across the room towards the office, where Maxwellhad been banished to for the duration of the dress picking, quickly let himknow where she was going, and then rushed back to disappear upstairs and get thetwins.

Then she was back with the twins’ baby carriers, and with one last goodbye, she was outthe door and it was time for C.C. to go get her clothes back from the corner ofthe room.

“Give me a minute, Niles, I just have to get changed.”

“Are you sure you don’t need my help?”

He sounded like he’d stopped crying, and had turned his attentionsto other matters. Now that they were alone, C.C. supposed it was only naturalin some ways. After a little emotional moment like that, some intimate time didsound rather pleasant.

But so did some of their usual fun first.

“I’m more than sure I can handle taking a dress off bymyself, Dust Buster,” she told him, just about managing to get the zipper downon the back of her dress. “Besides, your ancient, gnarled fingers would takeforever to get the zipper down…”

She could almost hear him smirking at her, “You know youlove the anticipation.”

“Waiting for me to get out of this thing is anticipation,lover,” she said, corners of her mouth curling upwards. “Besides, I’m wearingthe lace bra and panties you like underneath, and wouldn’t you much rather see those?”

There was a short silence before Niles spoke again. He wasprobably considering his options.

“Take all the time you need, my dear,” he eventually said. “I’llbe right here waiting when you’re done.”

“Oh, I bet you will, my darling husband,” C.C. grinned, peelingthe dress off and letting it pool at her feet. “I bet you will.”

[shsl-shipper-gamer-fangirl]

“We’ll steal your disbelieving heart!”

Part 3 of edit sets for witchsona AU

**Please DO NOT edit, use, or repost any of these! Thank you!

[UPDATED and COMPLETE character profiles (codenames, outfit, awakening scene, dialogues) under the cut!]

NEW NINE WITCHSONA

Atsuko "Akko" Kagari

Codename: Nova (short for supernova)

Arcana: Fool

Mask: Golden domino mask with star shaped holes for the eyes

Outfit: Think Shiny Chariot just more conservative and more red, golden gloves, shine bright girl!

Persona: Susanoo -> Amaterasu, goddess of the sun and of the universe [World arcana] (second awakening)

Skillset: Strong physical attacks and resistance but lower magical defense

Weapons: Shiny Rod (but Akko swings it like a bat) and slingshot gun

All-Out Attack Card: "A Dream Come True!" written with a colorful background and she says, "Wasn't that so much fun!"

Awakening Scene:

Akko: I won’t give up! Never! If I just reach out my hand, it’s sure to begin! Thrilling! And exciting! My very own story!

Susanoo: And if your story starts only to finish too early?

Akko: That won’t happen! I won’t let that happen! I’m sure that my story will be just as bright as Chariot’s! No, much MUCH brighter! I can already see it sparkling! And I won’t let it die so easily!

Susanoo: I’ll hold you to those words. Remember, even the brightest stars have to die eventually but when you have to, do so with a bang. I am thou, thou art I… This is the start of your story. Show them just how bright you are!

Akko: I will become the brightest! I’ve always dreamed of this moment ever since Chariot came into my life and now it’s finally happening. I’ll make this the most fun story anyone has ever heard of! Shine bright, Susanoo!

Quotes:

"That was too easy! Ha!"

"Look at me! I’m getting stronger again! Yay!"

"New skill get! I bet it’s strong!"

"Oooh, a treasure! Quick, let’s grab it!"

"Finally! A safe room! Haaaah, I’m so exhausted!"

"Exploring is always so exciting! It makes my heart skip a beat!"

"Me? Tired? Ha! You’ve got to be kidding!"

"Uuuuugh, this is getting annoying real fast."

"That’s it. I’m out. Don’t wanna do this anymore."

"Look! An enemy! Let’s beat it up!"

"Kyaaah! We’ve been spotted! Run! Run! RUN!"

"Eh? Is it just me or was that harder than it should have been."

"Small fry? Pssh! Let’s just skip to the boss already!"

"Ehhhh, don’t they look kind of strong? Maybe we should look the other way."

"There’s no turning back from this. Everyone, let’s give it our best shot!"

"Victory! Yay! As expected from our awesome team! Let’s go, girls!"

Baton Pass: "Nova shining through!"

Protect: "Watch out!"

Endure: "I’m not going to die… not until I meet Chariot!"

Summon Persona: "Shine bright, Susanoo!" or “Dazzle them, Susanoo!”

Follow Up: "Pick me! I want to help!"

Cover Fire: "Please, please let me get a shot!"

Harisen Recovery: "Stop acting all funny!"

Low on Health: "Hey, won’t somebody heal me already? I’m kind of dying here."

Healing someone: "Pain, pain, fly away!"

Getting Healed: "Uwaaah! That feels so much better! Thanks!"

Giving Buffs: "Let’s see you go all out!"

Physical Attacks: "Homerun!"

Attacking: "Prepare to get beaten!"

Attack misses: "Huh? That wasn’t supposed to go like that!"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "So annoying! Someone beat them already!"

Fainting: "What? Already? No… this can’t be. I can’t… my story should have been happy..."

Getting Resurrected: “Thanks! Now I’m gonna make sure that THEY die next!”

Status Ailment: "Uck, being sick sucks!"

Burn: "Hot! Hot! Hot! HOT! Throw me some ice! Anything cold!"

Freeze: "Too c-c-c-cold! Achoo! Euuugh, I want a kotatsu."

Shock: "YEOWCH! I’ve already learned my lesson to not put my fingers in a socket so why do I have to get shocked all over again?"

Forget: "Chariot who? I feel like she’s supposed to be someone important..."

Charm: "Well excuse me! Those shadows probably like Chariot more than you guys do anyways!"

Rage: "Fine! If that’s how it is then I’m not gonna hold back!"

Despair: "Will I ever find Chariot like this? Maybe she’s already gone forever..."

Hunger: "*stomach growls* I’m really craving for some Japanese food right now."

Dizzy: "Hold still! How can I hit you if you won’t hold still!"

Sleep: "Zzz… Chariot is the best... zzz..."

Silence: !!!!!

Mouse: "Squeak!!!!!"

Mementos chats:

“Cognitive world? I don’t really get it but it’s kind of like world inside a person’s heart, right? So if we keep going on like this then I’m sure I’ll be able to find Chariot someday!”

“If our clothes is a reflection or something of our heart then how come I didn’t get Chariot’s clothes? Do you think if I wish with my heart hard enough, I can get an outfit change?”

“What’s with all these lame skill names though? They sound like hard to memorize spells. I’m going to rename all of mine!”

“Not only am I a Phantom Witch but so are my friends! Isn’t this the best! This is so exciting!”

“I’m finally a Phantom Witch! After all those years of just dreaming and now I’m living it! Wait for me, world, I’ll definitely become a great Phantom Witch like Chariot!”

Akko: Isn’t this amazing? My mentor in magic is also my mentor for phantom witching!

Ursula: Yes, it is amazing. I just wish you showed more enthusiasm towards our magic classes in the real world.

Akko: My feet are killing me! Professor Crow, can I hitch a ride on one of your broombas?

Croix: You could but I don’t think Bird Mom would allow you to slack off.

Akko: Just what kind of dish is "Cavendish" anyways?

Diana: ...I can hear your stomach growling. Have you eaten at all before this?

Akko: I don't get this arcana thing. Why isn't Chariot's arcana Chariot? I mean it's already in her name!

Diana: Clearly you haven't been studying. Again. If you did then you would know that that's not how arcanas work.

Akko: What do you mean this isn’t how you’re supposed to use the Shiny Rod?

Diana: Exactly what that means. Honestly how did you get it into your possession?

Akko: Isn't it weird calling out your own name when you summon your persona?

Diana: I suppose it is but I've gotten used to it.

Akko: Why would you name yourself "My asthma"? You sick or something?

Lotte: It's not "my asthma", it's mi-

Sucy: No. Don't tell her. This is funny.

Akko: Why am I not surprised that Sucy is just as creepy even as a Phantom Witch?

Sucy: It's called consistency- something you lack.

Akko: Thank goodness we have Lotte with us, she's really good at talking us out of a fight!

Lotte: Well we wouldn't be fighting so much if you just tried talking first instead of running in head first.

Akko: Hey, you're not wearing your glasses. Can you even see anything?

Lotte: Oh, actually my glasses are incorporated in my mask. It's thoughtfully convenient.

Akko: Amanda's outfit is so cool! Not like in a Chariot way but still cool!

Amanda: Thanks. It just shows how cool my rebellious spirit is. Meanwhile your outfit is... very Akko.

Akko: Hey! What's that supposed to mean?!

Akko: Just how many snacks do you bring with you each time?

Jasminka: Enough for everyone... and more!

Akko: How come you guys get to ride your personas? Like Amanda can ride on hers and Constanze has a huge ship!

Amanda: You can't even ride a broom, how can you ride anything else?

Constanze (through Stanbot): Akko, basics!

Akko: Constanze has it easy, huh. We have to fight shadows while she just stands back and supervises.

Constanze: *pouts*

Constanze (through Stanbot): No cover fire for Akko!

Akko: Eh? Ehhhhhh? No way! J-Joke! That was just a joke! I was kidding!

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

Diana Cavendish

Codename: Empress

Arcana: Hierophant

Mask: Silver mask with intricate carvings reminiscent of crowns exuding a royal vibe

Outfit: Think Revolutionary Girl Utena just with a different color scheme, white and blue and gold, white gloves or blue to accent

Persona: Celtic goddess of healing Sirona -> Roman goddess Diana (second awakening)

Skillset: Strong heal and magic spells, high magic resistance but weak to physical and status ailments

Weapons: Rapier and Desert Eagle

All-Out Attack Card: "Battle Royal" written with a castle in the background and she says, "It was hardly a challenge."

Awakening Scene:

Diana: Is this truly my limit? A prodigy at the wand and yet in this moment, I am useless. No, I can’t let this end like this. Not as a sight so pathetic as this. I have been useless at the wand before then I worked towards regaining my worth, and I shall do the same now! I will not stand by as those before me suffer! If this is my limit then I shall just find a way to go beyond it!

Sirona: Splendid words, your highness. Your valor has not wavered a day. Helplessness is only a temporary situation, as you’ve excellently deduced. It is not permanent therefore it can be change. And more importantly, you can change. Now the question is, will you? Even if it means turning your back on the very customs and traditions that you uphold?

Diana: I will admit that forsaking tradition does not sit well with me… But these are different times, and surely there are outdated customs that need to be corrected. I won’t completely change them all but I am willing to change enough.

Sirona: And that is more than enough. Let us proceed with the pact. I am thou, thou art I… The strength to accept the old as well as to adapt to the new, is a skill you should hone. Will you rise above the challenge?

Diana: I shall do more than just conquer it. I swear upon my name that I shall surpass and master it! Dance, Sirona!

Quotes:

"I’d hardly call that a challenge. Let us move on."

"It would seem that I’ve gotten stronger. It’s not worth to brag."

"A new skill? Perhaps I could master it today."

"There is a treasure chest ahead of us, try to see the surroundings first unlike last time."

"A safe room. We should maximize our time spent here."

"It certainly is a different experience to explore here. I’m not quite sure how to feel about this."

"This is hardly tiring exercise, no need to concern over me."

"Hm, perhaps I may have underestimated the vastness of our excursion. Do not fret, I can still carry on."

"I apologize but this is my limit. I’ll try not to hold you back next time."

"There’s an enemy nearby. So? What is our course of action?"

"We've been spotted? Don’t let them ambush us!"

"The difference in power is palpable."

"Are you sure we can afford the time to dawdle on these weak shadows?"

"That shadow is of great adversary. We should exercise caution."

"Failure is not an option here. Only attack when you’re ready."

"Victory is ours. Well done, everyone."

Baton Pass: "Empress joining in!"

Protect: "No! Nova!"

Endure: "I will not fall here… Definitely not by the likes of you!"

Summon Persona: "Unsheath your blade, Sirona!"

Follow Up: "Would you like a hand?"

Cover Fire: "If you think you can’t handle it then I can."

Harisen Recovery: "Focus more next time!"

Low on Health: "Some assistance would be lovely."

Healing someone: "That should make you feel better."

Getting Healed: "Thank you, I appreciate the help."

Giving Buffs: "A boost for good measure."

Physical Attacks: "Fall by my blade!"

Attacking: "I will end this!"

Attack misses: "What? How could I have missed?"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "Someone, please finish this for me!"

Fainting: "Is this my limit? How pathetic I must be..."

Getting Resurrected: “Thank you. I will gladly return the favor later.”

Status Ailment: "Perhaps I should have trained my body’s fortitude more..."

Burn: "This is but a slight fever. I just need to cool off in a bit."

Freeze: "It’s quite c-cold. I don’t supposed anyone brought a sweater?"

Shock: "I can’t move! Someone get me an insulator to discharge this with!"

Forget: "Duty? Did I really have anything as cumbersome as that?"

Charm: "I have never set sight on anything as beautiful and so I shall protect them at all costs!"

Rage: "You pathetic scum! Feel the wrath of my sword!"

Despair: "What’s the point? There will always be someone better than me no matter how hard I try..."

Hunger: "Oh my, please pardon my stomach. It’s been a while since I last ate."

Dizzy: "Is it just me or is my blade softer than I remember?"

Sleep: "Zzz… No time to rest... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "Squeak!"

Mementos chats:

“So this is the world that Chariot has seen before us? I wonder what she thought of it...”

“The shadows take the most peculiar of forms and yet their names exist among our legends. Perhaps there is a connection not known to us, hmm.”

“I’m not quite used to wearing such… flattering clothes but they’re not impractical. I might actually consider doning something similar in the real world.”

“I’ve heard of The Phantom Witch Chariot but never did I think that she was doing something like this. And never did I think that I would be doing something similar today.”

“I must say, being a witch and a Phantom Witch is not quite the same but I will gladly take both responsibilities.”

Diana: Pardon me for my intrusiveness but I can’t help but notice how reiminiscent of Chariot’s moves your movements are. Were you two perhaps close in the past?

Ursula: Eh? Really? Ahaha… I guess you could say that I look up to her… Let’s leave it at that.

Diana: Normally electronics do not function here in the cognitive world and yet you somehow managed to bypass through that… with magic?

Croix: And don’t forget science. You’re looking at the future of magic, science!

Diana: Your outfits bears quite the uncanny resemblance with Chariot’s… *mumbles* How envious.

Akko: Huh? Did you say something, Empress?

Diana: I'm still uncomfortable with the use of firearms in battle.

Akko: At least you get to use an actual gun! Why the heck do I get a kid's toy instead?

Diana: Really now. I don’t know why you’re the leader when you’re the most reckless out of all of us.

Akko: I know right? Hey, wait! That wasn’t a compliment at all, was it?!

Diana: It's amazing how there are worlds like this all because someone believes it.

Akko: Chariot was right all along. A believing heart is magic. And it's our duty to make sure that magic is used for good!

Diana: So a diplomatic approach could work just as fine... Interesting, I wouldn't have learned that from Akko.

Lotte: Yes, well you know Akko. She has her own way of dealing with things.

Sucy: It's called brute force.

Akko: Hey! I can hear you guys over here!

Diana: Night Fall…? I don’t think I recognize that book you’re bringing with you. What is it about?

Lotte: You should have been prepared if you asked that question. Let me start from the first volume!

Diana: I don’t suppose you have something in your arsenal that could cure Nova’s airheadedness.

Sucy: I actually do. But using it on her would just take out all the fun so I don’t.

Diana: Why am I not surprised that you and Nova are teamed up?

Amanda: Watch it, your highness. You don’t want me start a revolt on your case, now do you?

Diana: I have never considered a Persona to manifest in such a creative manner. Wait, I don’t remember these… did you add these here?

Constanze: *nods her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Special modifications!

Diana: Excuse me but you wouldn’t happen to have biscuits with you, or would you? I’m a bit peckish and I didn’t bring anything with me.

Jasminka: It’s okay. I have all sorts of happy flavors with me!

-----

Lotte Yanson

Codename: Owl

Arcana: Temperance

Mask: Great grey owl-shaped mask but the eye holes are covered with prescription glasses

Outfit: Think traditional fantasy rpg mage but with grey feathery look, brown and a bit feathery gloves

Persona: Luonnotar, the Finnish "female spirit of nature"

Skillset: Strong buffs and support; her high affinity with spirits makes her handy to have when doing shadow negotiations particularly recruiting shadows

Weapons: Spear and harpoon gun

All-Out Attack Card: "Night Fall and Spirit Calls" written with spirits celebrating in the background and she says,"I lost my temper back there."

Awakening Scene:

Lotte: What should I do? My friends are in trouble and I can’t help them! No! I… I have to help them! It’s not a matter of whether I can or I can’t, I WILL! I will definitely help them! They’ve done so much for me and now it’s my turn to pay them back. Even if I can’t do it alone, with them by my side, I’m sure that I can do it now!

Luonnotar: It would seem that you have found your strength.

Lotte: I have. I know that I’m not the strongest and yet… when I’m with my friends, I feel strong. They give me strength. And with that strength, I want to protect them!

Luonnotar: Yes, cherish that feeling and protect it with all your heart. Let me provide you the necessary power. I am thou, thou art I… You are stronger than you think In acknowledging your own weakness, you have found true strength.

Lotte: I may be weak but I will get stronger. I will be strong enough for my friends! I call upon your name, please hear me, Luonnatar!

Quotes:

"Well that was a quick fight. Shall we get going?"

"Amazing! It feels so different when I level up, I feel stronger!"

"A new skill? I can’t wait to see what it is!"

"Treasure chest up ahead. Let’s scope the area first."

"Look, a safe room. We should use this to take a break for now."

"It feels like I’m in a book when we’re exploring worlds like this."

"I rested plenty beforehand so I’ve got a lot of energy with me. Let’s go?"

"Maybe I should pace myself. These places go farther than I thought."

"I don’t think I can keep up anymore. Sorry, I’m going to hang in the back for now."

"Enemy spotted. What do you think we should do?"

"They spotted us! Everyone, be careful!"

"The difference in strength is too obvious."

"There’s no need to go after those weak ones. We shouldn’t bully them so much."

"They’re too powerful! I know you want to fight but you should pick your battles."

"It feels like this is an important battle. Be sure that you’re fully prepared before facing it."

"We won! That was amazing, everyone!"

Baton Pass: "Owl swooping in!"

Protect: "Be careful!"

Endure: "Not yet… I still have much left in me."

Summon Persona: "Hear my calling, Luonnatar!"

Follow Up: "I think I can finish them off."

Cover Fire: "Would you like my help?"

Harisen Recovery: "Are you alright?"

Low on Health: "If you could, can someone please help me?"

Healing someone: "Please, hold on!"

Getting Healed: "Thank you so much!"

Giving Buffs: "This should help."

Physical Attacks: "I’ll take you down!"

Attacking: "Take this!"

Attack misses: "Sorry, I missed!"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "Please, finish them off for me!"

Fainting: "No… I don’t want to die… I… I’m sorry..."

Getting Resurrected: “Thank you. Let’s not do that again.”

Status Ailment: "I don’t feel so good..."

Burn: "It’s so hot! Oh geez, I’m sweating too much."

Freeze: "Brrr, c-cold! Not even our worst winters were this cold."

Shock: "Eep! Is this what touching livewire feels like?"

Forget: "For whose sake did I go through all these lengths for? Where are my friends?"

Charm: "Well they asked so nicely, it’s kind of hard for me to turn them down."

Rage: "You! I’ll make a net out of you with all the holes I’ll pierce through you!"

Despair: "It’s no use... In the end, I’m still as weak as I started..."

Hunger: "It’s silly but I’m suddenly craving for some homemade hapansilakka pies."

Dizzy: "Huh? I can’t seem to move my body right."

Sleep: "Zzz… Just one more chapter... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "Squeak~"

Mementos chats:

“This is the world inside a person’s heart… As I thought, I still prefer Night Fall’s interpretation in volume 321.”

“I wonder what my Palace would look like if I had one… I’m starting to wish I had one if only it looked like something plucked from Night Fall.”

“Thank goodness that my glasses is incorporated in my mask. I don’t I’ll be of much use if I can’t see anything.”

“The objects here don’t have any spirits in them but instead I can talk to the shadows instead. That’s an unexpected tradeoff.”

“I know this is more of Nova’s dream not mine but now that I’m a Phantom Witch, I’ll do my best!”

Lotte: I’m actually a bit relieved to have the supervision of an adult with us.

Ursula: That makes me happy to hear. Unfortunately, not everyone shares the same sentiment… *sigh*

Lotte: If Crane is Bird Mom then what does that make us though?

Croix: Well I’m Crow and you’re Owl. We’re obviously unrelated to Crane aka Bird Mom.

Lotte: Really, Nova. You should think things through before acting out!

Akko: But then I won’t get to do anything!

Lotte: I’ve heard rumors that you’re well-rounded with skills but I never imagined you’d be this good with a rapier. You’re like a character pulled out from a book!

Diana: This much is just the basics, it’s nothing noteworthy. I’ve been told that you are quite the avid reader, do I truly remind you of a certain character? Perhaps you could recommend me the book, I’d like to expand my library.

Lotte: I feel kind of silly in my outfit. I'm not used to wearing something so eye-catching.

Sucy: It feels the same for me. Well the mask is more pointed but as long as it serves its function, I could care less.

Lotte: I’ve done some research and it seems that your outfit is based on the plague doctors from a different continent long ago. Isn’t it kind of ironic that rather than heal sickness, you inflict them upon our enemies?

Sucy: I could care less. This outfit is pretty efficient in protecting me from my poisons and that’s the only thing that matters.

Lotte: You look like you’re just dancing when you fight. Light on your feet but heavy when you kick. You’re amazing, Rebel!

Amanda: Aww, thanks. Just for that, I’m gonna show you some of my best combos next time.

Lotte: Isn’t it tiring to have your persona always out? If you need to rest, don’t hesitate to ask us. A small break will do us more good than harm.

Constanze: *shakes her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Still good but thanks!

Lotte: You're so strong! I don't know anyone else who can lift such a large weapon so easily.

Jasminka: Thank you. I don't know anyone else who can talk to spirits though!

-----

Sucy Manbavaran

Codename: Miasma

Arcana: Devil

Mask: Plague doctor mask

Outfit: Dark cloak and robes, horns headband, black leather gloves

Persona: Maria Cacao or "Maria" for short, the goddess at Mt. Lantoy in Cebu, Philippines

Skillset: Strong at dealing status ailments and debuffing enemies; her intimidating aura helps in shadow negotiations particularly shaking down more money and rarer items off shadows

Weapons: Sickle and modified gas pistol

All-Out Attack Card: "Deadly Concoction" written in a cauldron with mushrooms in the background and she says, "Was that too strong for you?"

Awakening Scene:

Sucy: How annoying. Are all shadows this obnoxious? They talk too much, it’s a pain. It doesn’t really matter to me but… you’re in the way. I can’t let you have my teammates, I still have plans for future experiments with them. So shut up and get lost already.

Maria: As dishonest as ever. Would it hurt you to be frank with your feelings for once? Well as long as your heart is in the right place then it shouldn’t matter. After all, actions speak louder than words, don’t you think so?

Sucy: For someone who’s supposed to be a reflection of myself, you sure talk too much. Can’t we just skip to the part where you give me powers already?

Maria: Not a fan of introspection either. Very well then, let us make haste. I am thou, thou art I… Let us make the world eat their words. Talk is cheap but actions are of great consequences.

Sucy: I don’t know if I care about the world enough but sure, if you say so. Let’s see what you got, Maria!

Quotes:

"That finished too quickly. So? What are you standing there for?"

"Oh, I leveled up? What else do you want me to say?"

"Hm, a new skill? Ooh, this looks like it’ll be fun to use, kukuku."

"Treasure chest ahead. Ah, you have that greedy look in your eyes again."

"A safe room. You’re tired already? Lame."

"There’s not much for me to find when exploring here. Still beats doing nothing."

"I’ll join you for a while I guess. Got nothing else to do."

"Sure, I guess I can walk some more."

"This is too bothersome. I’m going home."

"There’s an enemy up ahead. Think first before you charge headfirst."

"They saw us? Why am I not surprised."

"Don’t tell me you didn’t feel that power difference."

"Wow, you must be pretty bored if you want to bully some weaklings."

"Looks like someone’s got a death wish if you want to fight them so badly."

"Remember, if we die here we die for good. So don’t go charging in like you want to die, got it?"

"Ah, we won. Well good for us I guess."

Baton Pass: "Miasma drifting in!"

Protect: "Watch yourself, idiot!"

Endure: "I’ve taken poisons worse than this."

Summon Persona: "Take them down, Maria!"

Follow Up: "Think you can finish them off on your own?"

Cover Fire: "Yeah, sure I’ll cover your back."

Harisen Recovery: "Stop daydreaming!"

Low on Health: "Huh, this is bad."

Healing someone: "Don’t just lie there, get up."

Getting Healed: "Thanks, I needed that."

Giving Buffs: "Make it count while it lasts."

*inflicting debuffs* "Let’s see how you’ll survive this, kukuku..."

Physical Attacks: "Should I slice your head off?"

Attacking: "I wouldn’t get up if I were you."

Attack misses: "Missed? Tch."

Couldn't finish off enemy: "So annoying. I’ll get you next time."

Fainting: "This is it, huh? Well can’t say I’m surprised… still, how frustrating..."

Getting Resurrected: “Thank you, being dead was a nice experience though.”

Status Ailment: "Tch, I got careless."

Burn: "It feels like summer back home. Too hot."

Freeze: "Achoo! Still not used to the cold."

Shock: "I’ll only move when this gets cured."

Forget: "What am I doing here? Are there any mushrooms around?"

Charm: "Eh, I got bored."

Rage: "You don’t want me mad."

Despair: "This is all just a waste of effort, let’s just go back home..."

Hunger: "The food here is too bland, blegh. I need real food."

Dizzy: "Huh, I keep missing for some reason."

Sleep: "Zzz… Kukuku... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "Squeak."

Mementos chats:

“I wonder what sorts of poisons are only found in the rotten hearts of people, kukuku...”

“An unlimited reserve of test subjects that I can actually accidentally kill? This whole Phantom Witch thing may be worth more than I thought.”

“Oh, this outfit is actually efficient in protecting myself from all sorts of poisons. Maybe I should consider making one in the real world.”

“If I went home and told them that I can summon our local deity then I wouldn’t hear the end of it.”

“Do whatever you want. Just don’t expect me to be as enthusiastic as you when it comes to being a Phantom Witch.”

Sucy: Still, for someone who just awakened recently, you sure do know a lot.

Ursula: Do I? I suppose I’m just more observant, ahaha...

Sucy: You look like you can handle things on your own. Are you sure you’re okay with babysitting us lot?

Croix: Oh, don’t worry about me. I’m learning much more while I’m with you. Besides, I’m just here to supervise. Bird Mom is the one doing the actual babysitting.

Sucy: Hey, Nova. Come over here so I can test out this new potion.

Akko: Don’t you already use them against the shadows here? What do you need me for?!

Sucy: The highly capable Empress taking orders from the incompetent fool Nova. Never thought I’d see the day.

Diana: Please don’t make this any more embarrassing than it already is.

Sucy: A great grey owl, huh? I thought you’d get at least a brighter color scheme given your personality.

Lotte: Oh, um, thank you? I thought you were going to say it was because of my hair color.

Sucy: That too.

Sucy: It’s annoying when the glasses fog up. I don’t know how you deal with this all the time.

Lotte: You get used to it… eventually, hehe.

Sucy: I’m surprised you’re letting the reckless Nova take the lead. I figured you’d fight over the position with her and then having it end up in Empress’ hands.

Amanda: Are you kidding me? Who else am I going to Rebel against if not the leader? Besides, I’d rather take Nova’s side than Empress’.

Sucy: Hey, can you modify my gun so that it shoots gas more accurately? Or maybe something that shoots more painfully?

Constanze (through Stanbot): Possible! I'll work on it soon!

Akko: Somehow, those two teaming up makes me feel uneasy...

Sucy: Hey, did you bring the game with you? I’m sitting this one out.

Constanze: *nods her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Let’s continue our last save!

Sucy: Don’t you have anything exotic to eat?

Jasminka: Say no more, I know you like frogs so I brought some!

-----

Amanda O'Neill

Codename: Rebel

Arcana: Chariot

Mask: White mask, maybe same as P5 Joker's but edgier

Outfit: Think P5 Joker and her hair is groomed like in the Holy Grail episode, red gloves

Persona: Eris, Greek goddess of chaos

Skillset: Strong physical, high agility, most likely to do follow-ups

Weapons: Bo staff and shoes that hurt as hell, and submachine gun

Notes: Amanda has the only solo-rideable persona. It takes form of either a revamped broom or a hoverbike. She's the only one who equips two melee weapons because of her acrobatic fighting style.

All-Out Attack Card: "Wrong side of the law" written with a heist background and she says, "That all you got?"

Awakening Scene:

Amanda: There ain’t no way in hell that I’m going to lose to a creep like you! I’m done playing by your rules! Watch me break all of them and then I’ll break you into pieces!

Eris: Not so fond of authority as always. It’s a trait of yours that I don’t dislike.

Amanda: Heh, I don’t really care if you like me or not. You’re here to give me power, right? Well what are you waiting for?

Eris: Ah, and always in a hurry, as swift as you are on a broom. Good, there won’t be a dull moment with you. I am thou, thou art I… Let us break free from the suffocating chains of order and become chaos incarnate!

Amanda: You don’t have to tell me what I’m already about. Rules just cramp my style. Let’s crash this party, Eris!

Quotes:

"That all you got? Man, what a letdown."

"Heh, I could get used to this levelling up thing."

"New skill? Let’s test this baby out!"

"Ooh, a treasure chest. Alright, I’m calling dibs!"

"A safe room? I guess a break couldn’t hurt."

"Man, look at us! Aren’t we hardworkers exploring through all this?"

"Don’t tell me you’re already tired? I’m just getting started."

"It’s getting kind of boring but sure, I’ll humor you."

"It was fun while it lasted. Hey, when are we going home already?"

"Enemy spotted. What do you say? Let’s sneak up on them!"

"They saw us? Oi! Don’t let them hit our backs too!"

"Heh, I actually worked up a sweat with that one."

"Leave the small fries, let’s hit the big ones instead."

"Woah, those are definitely not small fries. You sure you can handle them?"

"Hey, don’t let these jerks kill you. If you do then I’m going to kill you twice over."

"We won already? No sweat."

Baton Pass: "Rebel crashing in!"

Protect: "Dammit! Watch out will ya!"

Endure: "Heh, try harder."

Summon Persona: "Shake things up, Eris!"

Follow Up: "You know you need me."

Cover Fire: "Need some cover?"

Harisen Recovery: "Oi! Get yourself together!"

Low on Health: "Um, guys? Some healing would be nice!"

Healing someone: "You’re welcome."

Getting Healed: "Thanks, I needed that."

Giving Buffs: "Go wild out there!"

Physical Attacks: "Did that hurt?"

Attacking: "You’re good as dead!"

Attack misses: "What? Missed? Don’t screw with me!"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "These annoying pieces of..."

Fainting: "Dammit... Am I that weak? This isn’t how I was supposed to go!"

Getting Resurrected: “Thanks, I’m going to make sure they end up in hell for this.”

Status Ailment: "Tch, not this annoying crap again!"

Burn: "Damn it’s too hot! Sweating bullets over here!"

Freeze: "Achoo! Seriously?"

Shock: "You know what? I’m not even gonna try."

Forget: "Break rules? Why shouldn’t I follow the rules?"

Charm: "Hey, don’t hate me for siding with the stronger team just saying."

Rage: "You bastards! Let’s see you talk shit after I’m done with you!"

Despair: "Does it even make a difference? In the end, I’m still going to get locked up over some dumb rule no matter how much I fight against it..."

Hunger: "Anyone here got any snacks on them?"

Dizzy: "Dammit! Stop missing!"

Sleep: "Zzz… That sounds dangerous, I’m in... zzz..."

Silence: …!

Mouse: "Squeak!"

Mementos chats:

“Man, this place rocks! We can practically do whatever we want with no adults to nag us! Too bad we don’t have an audience to piss. Oh wait, those are what the shadows are for!”

“And I thought I was fast on a broom. My persona’s breaking the sound barrier!”

“Stealing treasure? Don’t mind if I do.”

“I’m more of a Phantom Thief than a Phantom Witch but sure you can call me either.”

“Not really into the whole Phantom Witch thing but hey, so long as I get to do all this crazy stuff then I’m not complaining.”

Amanda: Babysitters? What kind of killjoy joke is this? With the majority of us being students, I didn’t expect a teacher to join us. No offense teach. Just don’t do cramping on our style, ‘kay?

Ursula: I can understand why you would be disappointed but don’t mind me. In here, we’re comrades of equal authority. I won’t “cramp your style” so to speak.

Amanda: You enjoy riding those flat disks? How do you even go fast on those without falling off?

Croix: Well you’d be surprised at how fast these broombas can go. Definitely faster than the ordinary broom but not as secure. Hmm, perhaps I should add some straps for safety...

Amanda: Look, let’s be real here. The only reason why I’m following you as the leader is because I don’t want to be leader. You still suck at your job though.

Akko: Hey! It’s harder than it looks, okay! Let’s see you do better then!

Amanda: Pass, you’re already enough to make fun of.

Amanda: Hey, you know how we can pull of all sorts of crazy stuff in here? And yet we still haven’t seen Nova fly a broom.

Akko: Why do you have to remind me?

Amanda: Hm? So the Luna Nova's "princess" is a Phantom Witch too. Huh, never thought I'd see the day.

Diana: I would prefer if you call me by my codename Empress but if you prefer then perhaps instead of Rebel, I should call you the Luna Nova’s “delinquent”.

Amanda: You use a rapier? You know I'm pretty badass with one too.

Diana: Yes, I'm aware. I think everyone has already heard of your infamous Appleton incident.

Amanda: Good times.

Amanda: Owl, huh? Aren’t those birds kind of nocturnal? Never figured you were the type.

Lotte: I’m not. I don’t usually stay up late at all unless… I do end up pulling all nighters reading my favorite book… and my favorite book’s fanfics.

Amanda: So ever noticed how you’re all “dark and gloomy” and your persona’s all “bright and benevolent”? What’s up with that?

Sucy: It’s not that surprising. Where I’m from, it’s the most benevolent gods that judge the most cruel punishments, kukuku...

Amanda: Flying on a broom feels awesome but flying on a ship ain’t half bad either.

Constanze: *gives a thumbs up*

Constanze (through Stanbot): You’re welcome!

Amanda: Woah! Did you just literally tear through that bag of chips with your claws?

Jasminka: Isn’t it convenient?

-----

Jasminka Antonenko

Codename: Mishka (Russian Bear mascot of the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games)

Arcana: Strength

Mask: Polar bear mask

Outfit: Think Overwatch Mei but with a different color scheme, fur gloves with claws, could be white or light blue

Persona: Maslenitsa, Slavic goddess of harvest and witchcraft

Skillset: Good at party healing and dealing brutal AOE damage but the only catch is that she doesn't have a lot of SP so she uses a lot of items to replenish it. Most likely to give cover fire.

Weapons: Two-handed axe or hammer and bazooka

All-Out Attack Card: "Chow Down" written on a dining table filled with food as a background, and she says, "Seconds, please?"

Awakening Scene:

Jasminka: Fighting is bad but bullying is worse! Stop bullying my friends!

Maslenitsa: I must agree. Aren’t bullies the worst? Are you just going to let them do as they please and bully your friends? Stand by and do nothing?

Jasminka: No! I can’t just watch this. I have to do something! But to do that, I need to fight them on the same level. Will you lend me your power?

Maslenitsa: How can I lend something that’s already yours? Your answer has more than satisfied me. Let us begin. I am thou, thou art I… You who has been at the mercy of oppressors, do not let the same fate befall on your loved ones. Choose your battles, and win each one that you fight in.

Jasminka: I won’t let anyone else get bullied! I’m done being nice! Let’s make them regret what they’ve done, Maslenitsa!

Quotes:

"That went by fast. Let’s go?"

"I’m growing stronger again!"

"I learned a new skill, amazing!"

"There’s a treasure chest up ahead. I hope it’s food this time."

"We found a safe room. Who wants to join me for a snack break?"

"I make sure to bring lots of snacks enough to last every time we go exploring."

"It’s okay, I ate lots so I have lots of energy!"

"If I keep eating enough then I’ll be fine for the rest of the trip."

"Sorry, I ran out of food. I don’t think I can make it like this."

"I see an enemy. Should we pounce on them now?"

"They saw us! Oh no!"

"Did you notice the difference in strength?"

"No bullying. They’re too weak to bother with."

"They’re too strong. Do you really want to fight them?"

"I don’t want my meal to be the last supper. Let’s give it all we’ve got!"

"Victory! Let’s eat to celebrate!"

Baton Pass: "Mishka pouncing in!"

Protect: "Watch out!"

Endure: "Ouch, that hurt..."

Summon Persona: "Rip them up, Maslenitsa!"

Follow Up: "Need an extra punch?"

Cover Fire: "One shot is all I need."

Harisen Recovery: "Are you okay?"

Low on Health: "Um, I need a quick snack."

Healing someone: "Don’t push yourself."

Getting Healed: "That feels nice, thanks."

Giving Buffs: "Eat lots and get stronger!"

Physical Attacks: "Easy does it!"

Attacking: "One grand slam!"

Attack misses: "Oh no, I missed!"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "Hmm, I need to eat more."

Fainting: "This is bad… really bad… I don’t want this..."

Getting Resurrected: “Thank you, I’ll bring your favorite food next time!”

Status Ailment: "Oh, my body feels different. Nothing like a good meal to cure it!"

Burn: "It’s so hot! Ice cream would be nice."

Freeze: "Actually, it’s not that cold but some warm soup would be lovely."

Shock: "Ouch, this isn’t a happy flavor at all."

Forget: "What’s going on here? Where did all my food go?"

Charm: "Sorry but they promised me some good food!"

Rage: "You’re just a bunch of meanies! I’ll teach you how to be nice!"

Despair: "Do I even make a difference? Maybe it was all for naught..."

Hunger: "*stomach growls* Huh, am I not eating enough?"

Dizzy: "Swing and miss? That’s not right..."

Sleep: "Zzz… Omnomnom... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "SQUEAK."

Mementos chats:

“Isn’t it amazing how food can help so much more in the cognitive world? And it’s also extra tasty!”

“I wonder why the food found here always taste so much better than the ones bought in the real world, hmm.”

“My outfit is so nice and warm and comfy! And these claws are useful too for opening persistent wrappings!”

“It’s always snack time all the time!”

“Isn’t this so much fun? We all get to hang out as Phantom Witches here even when we already hang out together in the real world!”

Jasminka: Why do the tastiest ones always have the best stat boosts? I’ll feel guilty for eating them without a good reason.

Ursula: Now, remember. It’s alright to have snacks every now and then, just save the especially useful ones for last.

Jasminka: I want to bring some cold and hot snacks too but I don’t think I can maintain their temperatures for long.

Croix: Oh, don’t worry about that. Just tell me beforehand and I’ll get a mini fridge and microwave ready.

Jasminka: Hmm, I wonder what snack should I eat next?

Akko: Ooooh! Is that a new flavor? Let me have some, please!

Jasminka: I brought tea and cups. Would you like some?

Diana: That’s rather quite thoughtful of you. Please accept my deepest gratitude.

Jasminka: The next time that you ask for items from shadows, please ask for more food instead.

Lotte: I could try but how sure are we that their food is safe to eat?

Jasminka: Oh, shouldn’t you wash your hands or at least take off your gloves before you eat? They’ve been exposed to your poisons so I don’t think that’s safe.

Sucy: Don’t worry about me. I’ve already developed an immunity to most poisons.

Jasminka: Don’t move too much after eating or else you’ll get indigestion.

Amanda: Normally I don’t like being told what to do but you asked so nicely, Mishka.

Jasminka: That’s no good, Steam. You always forget to eat. You should take care of yourself more.

Constanze: *shakes her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): I’m okay! Thanks anyways!

-----

Constanze Amalie von Braunschbank Albrechtsberger

Codename: Steam aka the Navigator

Arcana: Magician

Mask: Same goggles she wears in the anime

Outfit: Steampunk armor, brown gloves, the kind you use for machinery work

Persona: Baduhenna, Germanic goddess associated with war

Skillset: "Wild Hunt" which is basically ship mode and the usual navigator skills, strong gun skills, offense support type

Notes: Her persona is/can transform into a ship (like the one in the anime). Her persona also doubles as the transport vehicle of the group. She even makes "modifications" on her persona (skill exclusive to her and Croix). Upon second awakening, it transforms into Grand Charion.

Weapons: Her modified guns like in the anime; her persona also has canons

All-Out Attack Card: "Modern Magic" written on a circuitboard background and Stanbot says, "Victory!"

Awakening Scene:

Constanze: *shakes her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Bad shadows! Go away! Constanze mad!

Baduhenna: The opponents before you need more than just that for persuasion. What do you say? Shall we blow them to smithereens?

Constanze: *nods fervently*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Blow them up! Blow them up!

Baduhenna: Ha! Aren’t you an excited captain! With that attitude, the only thing you need now is a ship. Here, I shall give you the steering wheel. I am thou, thou art I… You who possess the power to create, let your crafts take you to farther seas!

Constanze: *raises her fist*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Full speed ahead, Baduhenna!

Quotes: (in Stanbot voice)

"Fight too easy! Finished too fast!"

"Level up! Overall capacity increased!"

"New skill! Reconfiguring output!"

"Treasure chest spotted! Initiate investigation!"

"Safe room! Time for maintenance check!"

"Sailing through! Searching for loot!"

"Energy levels at maximum capacity!"

"Halfway through the energy tank! Be efficient!"

"Running low on energy! Permission to recharge!"

"Enemy identified! Plan for action!"

"Enemy spotted us! Retreat!"

"Identifying large power gap!"

"Enemy too weak! Don’t bully!"

"Enemy too strong! Don’t be stupid!"

"Important fight! Be prepared!"

"Victory! Yay! Yay!"

Entering a battle via Ambush: “Fire in the hole!”

Getting ambushed: “All hands on deck!”

Rush: “Steady as she goes!”

Encountering the Reaper: “Walk the plank!”

Attempting to escape from battle: “Hit the deck!”

Party manages to escape from battle: “Abandon ship!”

An enemy flees in a Palace: “Fish swam away!”

Recovering party’s HP: “Be more careful!”

Recovering party’s SP: “Recharge with this!”

Giving buffs: “Buffs away!”

Bestowing Concentrate and Charge to party: “Charging up!”

Treasure Map: “Map get!”

X Marks the Spot: “More treasure!”

Know the Ropes: “Weakness found!”

Loose Cannon: “First shot!”

Man Overboard: “Switch now!”

Panic Station: “No! You can’t die yet!”

When someone’s health is low: “Someone heal them!”

When someone is incapacitated: “Witch down! Witch down!”

When someone exploits a enemy weakness: “Good job! Critical hit!”

When someone’s weakness is exploited: “Oh no! This is bad!”

When someone misses: “Miss! Lame! Super lame!”

Performing 3 Baton Passes in succession: “Go! Go! Combo!”

Announcing All-Out Attack: “Now’s our chance! All-Out Attack!”

Status Ailment: "Oh no! Someone’s sick!"

Burn: "Get some ice over here!"

Freeze: "Blankets! Where are all the blankets!"

Shock: "Shock! They can’t move!"

Forget: "Amnesia! Please remember!"

Charm: "Stop batting for the other team!"

Rage: "Calm down! No need to get mad!"

Despair: "Don’t lose hope! You can do it!"

Hunger: "Feed them! Bring out all the food!"

Dizzy: "Too dizzy! Accuracy is all wrong!"

Sleep: "Get some sleep later not now!"

Silence: "Why won’t you say anything!"

Mouse: "Can’t do anything as a mouse! Send help stat!"

Mementos chats:

“Persona is a ship! Ship is object and therefore modifiable!”

“Outfit not practical! Maybe can be scrapped for parts!”

“Constanze wonders if possible to manufacture a persona!”

“Lots of unique parts in cognitive world! Constanze is enjoying free resources!”

“Constanze is a Phantom Witch! This is amazing!”

Constanze (through Stanbot): Detecting abnormal wavelengths! Two persona signatures coming from Crame! Suspicious!

Ursula: Eh? There must be some sort of mistake. I mean, isn’t there a one-is-to-one rule for persona and persona users?

Constanze (through Stanbot): Is that new? Can Constanze look?

Croix: Sure is. Go ahead and have fun, kid.

Constanze (through Stanbot): Nonsense Nova! Stop being a reckless leader! Or else I’ll kick you out of the ship!

Akko: You’re not really going to kick me out, are you? Hey, w-w-wait a minute! Where are you dragging me to?! Okay, I got it! I’ll be more careful already!!

Constanze (through Stanbot): Staaaaaaaaaare!

Diana: Hm? I beg your pardon but is there something you need from me?

Constanze (through Stanbot): Constanze don’t talk! Owl talks but she talks to shadows! Don’t understand how!

Lotte: I’m not really sure how either. Maybe it has something to do with my ability to talk to spirits in the real world?

Constanze (through Stanbot): Bored! Want to play a game!

Sucy: It can’t be helped. I guess I’ll be your player two.

Constanze (through Stanbot): New upgrades added! Now ship is faster!

Amanda: That’s our Steam! Always ahead in the research and development department.

Constanze (through Stanbot): No eating inside Baduhenna!

Jasminka: Oh, sorry I just couldn’t wait anymore.

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

Ursula Callistis

Codename(s): Chariot, Crane

*NOTE for Ursula, she will have two masks: she starts out with Chariot and later on dons Crane (since the curse suppresses her powers)

Codename: Chariot

Arcana: Sun

Mask: Golden masquerade mask

Outfit: Think Overwatch Mercy just more red than yellow and minus the halo, white gloves, very magician

Persona: Astraea (star-maiden or starry night in Greek) [or second option Alfrodull, literally

sun-chariot in Norse]

Skillset: Strong bless skills, weak to curse skills. Has buff skills too.

Weapons: Shiny Rod which transforms into Shiny Axe for melee and then transforms into Shiny Arc for long-ranged

All-Out Attack Card: "A believing heart is magic!" written in the sky among the stars and she says, "I believe in you!"

Awakening Scene:

Chariot: If this person doesn’t think magic is precious then all I have to do is show them properly!

Astraea: That’s right. That’s a good attitude to have.

Chariot: What? Who said that?

Astraea: Do not be alarmed, child. I am not the enemy. I have always been with you but only now do you hear my voice.

Chariot: Who… Who are you?.

Astraea: I am thou, thou art I… There is always new wonders hidden in magic and today you have found me. You who possess a believing heart, never lose sight of it again.

Chariot: If you’re really a part of me then let’s do this. Lend me your magic and fill the world with smiles. Shine bright, Astraea!

---

Codename: Crane

Arcana: Hanged

Mask: Red bird-shaped mask with pointed beak

Outfit: Simple white witch outfit with bird motif and red accents, red gloves matches with mask (and hinting at Chariot)

Persona: Hestia, Greek goddess of the hearth, architecture, and the right ordering of domesticity, the family, the home, and the state

Skillset: Strong bless skills, weak to curse skills. Has some healing skills.

Weapons: Eskrima sticks and a crossbow

All-Out Attack Card: "Shoot for the stars!" written with the Fountain of Polaris in the background and she says, "I can shine at least this much!"

Awakening Scene:

Ursula: Never again… Never again will I let you touch her! I’ve already lost enough... Even if it costs me my life, I won’t let you take her away!

Hestia: Have you found your resolve again?

Ursula: This voice? It’s… different?

Hestia: Just as you are also different. And yet this feels strangely familiar, does it not?

Ursula: Wait, does this mean... No, this is not the time to question this.

Hestia: You’ve changed. Just like how you changed five years ago. But this change… suits you more. I am thou, thou art I… Not all who wander are lost forever. You who have found your path again, please don’t forget to believe.

Ursula: I know that now. All this time I’ve been doubting myself… when all along I should’ve just believed like I used to. Akko believes in me. And I think, out there somewhere, Croix believes in me too. That’s why I have to wake up and start believing again. After all, a believing heart is my magic. That same magic will help me protect those who are important to me. Lend me your strength, Hestia!

Quotes:

"Thank goodness that was easy. But we shouldn't let our guard down."

"Did I level up? I can feel renewed strength within me."

"Oh my, a new skill. All these new spells are tricky but I'll manage."

"There's a treasure chest. I hope that it's not a trap."

"Oh thank goodness, a safe room. Everyone, please take a break and pace yourselves."

"Let's all be mindful when exploring, okay?"

"Don't worry about me, your teacher has more stamina than you think."

"I'm a bit worn but overall fine. If you want to, let's keep going."

"Oh my, it seems that I'm not as fit as I remember. I think I've reached my limit, sorry everyone."

"There's an enemy ahead. Please be careful."

"We've been spotted! Don't let it ambush us!"

"That was quite an unfair fight, don't you think so?"

"They're weak shadows and it's your call if we fight them or not."

"These shadows are stronger than usual so keep that in mind."

"Everyone, brace yourselves. This fight is not something we can afford to lose."

"We won! Good work, everyone! I've always believed in all of you!"

Baton Pass: "Crane soaring in!"

Protect: "Be careful, Nova!"

Endure: "No... I will not end here!"

Summon Persona: "Lend me your strength, Hestia!"

Follow Up: "Don't hesitate to ask for help."

Cover Fire: "I've got your back!"

Harisen Recovery: "Are you alright?"

Low on Health: "I've had worse... don't worry."

Healing someone: "Please hang on!"

Getting Healed: "Thank you, I needed that."

Giving Buffs: "You are stronger than this!"

Physical Attacks: "I hope you don't mind me being blunt!"

Attacking: "Take this!"

Attack misses: "I missed? My eyesight can't be that bad, is it?"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "I leave the rest to you!"

Fainting: "No... I failed again? I'm sorry, everyone."

Getting Resurrected: "Let's... not do that again. Thank you for getting me back."

Status Ailment: "My body has grown weaker than I thought."

Burn: "Oh my, I think I may have a slight fever."

Freeze: "C-C-Cold! I could use some hot cocoa."

Shock: "Ouch! It hurts to move!"

Forget: "Who is Crane? Where's Chariot?"

Charm: "It's rude to judge by appearances so maybe I'll give the shadows a chance."

Rage: "How dare you! I'll beat you to a pulp!"

Despair: "Why did I even come back? Am I even useful the way I am now?"

Hunger: "Hearing my stomach growl so loudly is just embarrassing."

Dizzy: "Huh? My body isn't moving like it should."

Sleep: "Zzz… Finally, a nap... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "Squeak!"

Mementos chats:

"Crane, huh? I wonder what happened to the Chariot inside of me."

"I still have yet to regain my full strength but I won't let that hold me back."

"Maybe I should bring Alcor with me next time. Oh, but he doesn't have a persona. Should I make him a mask then?"

"To think that I was given another chance to become a Phantom Witch again. I won't waste this chance, I promise."

"It truly is better doing this with company than fighting alone. I'm so happy that there are so many Phantom Witches with us now."

Ursula: What are the odds that our outfits are both bird-themed? This reminds me of the saying, "birds of the same feather flock together".

Croix: Except we're both literally different species of birds.

Ursula: No, we are not naming our group "Murder". We're not here to kill people.

Croix: I meant "murder" as in a group of crows but I like your definition better.

Croix: Don't you want to find out who would win in a birdfight, a crane or a crow?

Ursula: No. Let's not find out. Ever. Can't we just find out which bird has better manners?

Ursula: This is more exhausting than I remember.

Croix: It's okay, Crane. There's nothing to be ashamed of with age.

Ursula: That is! Hey! Aren’t you the older one between the two of us?

Croix: Ah but do you see me complaining about aging problems? Checkmate.

Croix: I thought I'd be fighting with Chariot but Crane isn't half bad.

Ursula: Is that genuine praise I hear coming from you, Crow? I wonder what you need from me this time.

Ursula: Did you just... kiss me?!

Croix: What? No. It's called a peck.

Ursula: If our power is a manifestation of our rebellious spirit and if that is supposedly unique to each individual, then I wonder why Nova and Chariot share the same weapon.

Akko: Hey, does that mean that I'm kind of like Chariot in spirit? Wouldn't that be awesome!

Ursula: I feel proud but also a bit embarrassed when a student of mine does better than me. I hope I'm not lacking as your professor.

Diana: You don't need to concern yourself with that. Regardless of your performance, we will always hold respect for you, both as a Phantom Witch and as our professor.

Ursula: It never occurred to me to try and talk to shadows. We don't have to fight every battle thanks to you.

Lotte: Well I don't really want to fight unless I have to. I'm glad that some shadows think so as well.

Ursula: Some of those poisons are dangerously lethal. I hope that you exercise caution when handling them back at the real world.

Sucy: Oh, don't worry. I never use the dangerous ones on Nova.

Ursula: Your persona is so convenient. Not having to walk all the time sure saves us a lot of energy.

Constanze: *gives her a thumbs up*

Constanze (through Stanbot): No problem!

Ursula: I've heard how you were good with a broom but those talks don't do you justice.

Amanda: Well have you heard of how much trouble I stir up?

Ursula: Your party heal saves lives every time. I just hope you don't overwork yourself.

Jasminka: It's okay. As long as I eat after, I will heal everyone as much as you need.

-----

Croix Meridies

Codename: Crow

Arcana: Moon

Mask: Black bird-shaped mask with curved beak

Outfit: Same as anime but maybe edgier and more black accents, black gloves or maybe red or white to contrast

Persona: Morrigan, Irish mythology of a crow goddess --> Branwen, Welsh goddess of love, means “blessed raven.” (second awakening)

Skillset: Strong nuclear and has curse skills, weak to psychokinesis. Has some buff skills.

Weapons: Gadgets linked to her smartphone and sniper rifle

All-Out Attack Card: "Sorcery Solution System" written on a smartphone interface background and she says, "Your magic is outdated."

Awakening Scene:

Croix: Finally! I’ve been waiting for you for years!

Morrigan: It is you who have kept me waiting, milady. And to call me through such unconventional methods, you are quite the interesting master.

Croix: Yeah well you didn’t exactly come when I called for you all these years, did you?

Morrigan: There are reasons why you could not meet me back then. But I know that these are of little importance to the present matters. Let us form the contract. I am thou, thou art I… You who are not bound by convention and the like, spread your wings even farther!

Croix: With you, I can finally reach places previously inaccessible to me. You shall be my wings to help me soar. I will soar high, higher than Chariot ever did! Take flight, Morrigan!

Quotes:

"Too easy. I haven't even stretched my wings yet."

"Power level is rising once again."

"Hm, a new skill? Heh, you learn something new each day."

"Treasure chest up ahead. I could use the extra funds."

"Good, a safe room. I want to analyze my findings so far so go on and take a break."

"Isn't this exciting? There's always something new to discover with every exploration!"

"Don't underestimate the stamina of a veteran."

"You girls walk ahead, I'll be riding my broomba."

"Tch, running out of charge so don't think I can go full power."

"Enemy spotted. Shall we ruffle their feathers?"

"We've been spotted? How could you let your guard down so easily!"

"The power gap is too significant to ignore."

"They're not even worth the magic expense, don't bother."

"The enemy's power level is off the charts, you sure you want to pick a fight with them?"

"We cannot afford to lose here. If we're going to fight then we must absolutely win."

"We won. Don't act all surprised, it's only natural that we'd win."

Baton Pass: "Crow flying in!"

Protect: "Dammit! Nova!"

Endure: "I can't die here... I won't die like this!"

Summon Persona: "Take flight, Morrigan!"

Follow Up: "Perhaps I could be of assistance."

Cover Fire: "I'm a good shot, trust me."

Harisen Recovery: "Get yourself together!"

Low on Health: "Tch. Don't look down on me."

Healing someone: "Don't die on us just yet."

Getting Healed: "I appreciate the help."

Giving Buffs: "Updating stats."

Physical Attacks: "This will only hurt... a lot."

Attacking: "Good night."

Attack misses: "What the? The accuracy stats are off!"

Couldn't finish off enemy: "They're more tenacious than I thought!"

Fainting: "Dammit... I was so close. Was my life truly this insignificant?"

Getting Resurrected: “Thanks, version 2.0 me will repay you later.”

Status Ailment: "To think that my body was this susceptible, urk!"

Burn: "Overheating over here! Someone turn on the AC!"

Freeze: "Brrr, it’s too c-cold! Is the thermostat broken again?"

Shock: "Years of playing with live wire and still my body can't get used to this."

Forget: "Why did I do all of this? What goal could have pushed me to get this far?"

Charm: "If I'm going to fight then I might as well fight for the winning team."

Rage: "You insolent garbage! I'll show you my talons!"

Despair: "Do I even make a difference? Maybe it was all for naught..."

Hunger: "Where's a cup of instant ramen when you need one?"

Dizzy: "The controls are going haywire!"

Sleep: "Zzz… Gotta recharge real quick... zzz..."

Silence: ...

Mouse: "Squeak!!"

Mementos chats:

"It's fascinating to theorize just how the cognitive world physically manifests. If we discover enough then the possibility of deliberately creating our own is out there!"

"What? Me? Cheating? You have your weapons and I have my convenient gadgets which do the work for me. All is fair."

"To think that my rebellious spirit would manifest into this outfit. I can't say I dislike it. After all, a crow is much more intelligent than it lets on."

"It took me years before I could return to this world but now that I have, I finally have become a Phantom Witch."

"I always knew that I'd be a Phantom Witch. I just never accounted for the possibility that I wouldn't be working alone... Heh, it's not so bad."

Ursula: So your codename is Crow and your persona looks like a crow... not to mention the fact that your real name sounds like...

Croix: You're just jealous because I have a theme.

Ursula: I think Crow is a good fit for you. They're known to be quite the smart animals that have good memory.

Croix: You know what else crows are good at? Murder.

Croix: It's such a shame that I can't bring back shadows to the real world.

Ursula: It sounds like you already tried. You wouldn't do something that dangerous for the sake of research, right? ...Right? Crow, answer me!

Croix: Instant ramen has never failed me. Even here in the cognitive world, this is the most convenient and most satisfying meal to eat to go.

Ursula: Cup noodles again? That's all you ever eat, that can't be healthy. Next time I'll bring better food choices for you.

Croix: Fun's over, kids. You all heard Bird Mom.

Ursula: Did you just call me Bird Mom??

Croix: If I fold you a thousand origami cranes then would you grant me a wish?

Ursula: You don't have to do that. I'll gladly help you in achieving your wish with all my power.

Croix: You truly are interesting, Nova. The way you wield the Shiny Rod is unlike Chariot's and yet it is just as effective. Who would have thought?

Akko: Really? Are you saying that I'm just as strong as Chariot? No way! Chariot's way better than me!

Croix: I've seen how you wield a wand but I've never seen you wield a rapier before. Excellent skills as expected.

Diana: I'll accept that praise but I still have much to learn.

Croix: Oh, is that a new upgrade? I see... increased efficiency. It looks like you did a pretty good job as always! Do you mind if I take a closer look?

Constanze: *shakes her head*

Constanze (through Stanbot): Constructive criticism please!

Croix: Well aren't you quite gifted? Two-type weapon fighting style and a rideable persona for added maneuverability. I can't say that I'm not jealous.

Amanda: Heh, you're just overselling it now, teach. But you're not wrong.

Croix: Maybe Crane was onto something. Instant ramen isn't as filling here as it is in the real world, not like I’d admit that to her face.

Jasminka: Would you like some of my snacks? I brought extra.

Croix: Amazing. Your innate power to summon spirits in the real world could manifest into the ability to negotiate with shadows over here. Tell me, what is it like?

Lotte: Well the shadows are surprisingly more like people, once they start talking that is. Sometimes they talk too much though.

Croix: Correct me if I'm mistaken but are you using different poisons each time?

Sucy: Shadows are convenient test subjects. Well I still use Nova sometimes.

Feel free to edit or add to this AU. Have fun!!