#hence me stepping in last year/being brought in by our old social manager (i miss you cody) and comms team last year

[lupismaris]

Lmao okay okay white cishet social manager has now been added to the DEI Pride planning meetings which frankly is important to ensure shit is done right I’m attending as the multi-tool queer of the division and comms administrator/quartermaster who’s main role is holding the comms team accountable (my supervisors/head of comms words not mine) so my goal of making sure our Pride and LGBTQIA+ history month campaigns aren’t reductive capitalist rainbow washed nonsense is still a go

[mako-and-tails-and-stuff]

Day 13 - Paranormal AU

Pairing - Rita/Veridia

Words: 2,698

Rating: T

Here there be Vampires. More sort of Upir type vampires like in Hemlock Grove where they’re vampires but still ‘alive.’ Not exactly fluffy, it’s a bit darker, mentions of blood, death and other vampirey things. 

It was an old rivalry, like many of the old family rivalries. They all spanned back centuries. Rich, immortal Vampires families, at each other’s throats for centuries. Not literally at each other’s throats - Vampire blood is worth nothing nutritionally and tastes like off-wine. It’s not worth the effort. 

 It was like one those old playwright’s tales - the feuding families who couldn’t actually remember why it began in the first place. Rita had read it once, she found a copy in the library when she was barred inside the house following her transition. Romeo and Juliet it was called. Two lovers from rival families who both end up dead. The fragility of humanity.

 Of course the book was burned the moment her grandmother found it and threw it into the fire, screaming about how no human literature should be in the hand of a Vampire. If no ‘human literature’ was allowed then why it was even in the library to begin with was beyond her. 

Rita would definitely rather be holed up in the library right now, instead of accompanying an assortment of cousins, uncles and her grandmother to this ‘social gathering.’ A ‘social gathering’ being a mass gathering of the richest, most influential Vampire families of the country. Of course many of said families bitterly hated each other. 

 But once a year there was cause enough to push said hatred aside and pretend to get along for the sake of these gatherings. This was the first time Rita was permitted to attend along with the rest of the Santana del Rosario family. Newly transitioned vampires were considered too ‘volatile’ for events such as these and transitioning was deemed to take years, hence she been left at home while everyone else attended.

 The moment they arrived she had been awestruck. The manor was huge, inquisitive decorated, even beyond their own mansions and ballroom was easily the most impressive place she had ever seen - high arched ceilings with glittering lights the entire way up, leading to a crystal chandelier that looked impossible to clean. The floor was marble, enhancing the clicks of her heels as she walked. 

 Cousin Felix slipped an arm in hers, almost tripped her up as he pulled her closer. 

 “See that lot over there,” Felix whispered, nodding his head towards a group across the room. Each had the same curly coppery hair, and pale eyes, noticeable even from here. “Romanos. Stay away.”

There it was. Romano was a name she knew, they hated her family, and her family hated them. At least they were easy to spot. 

 “Ooh, they took their newest little one out,” Felix dropped Rita’s arm and slicked his dark hair back. The little one was what they called her, being the youngest to transition in their family. She’d never met another Vampire as young as her before. She tried to spot who Felix was talking about, but his incessant fussing with his hair pulled her attention to him. He made such a simple action such a momentous task. 

 “What are you doing?” Rita asked. “You already spent three hours doing your hair before we left.” He had taken over the main bathroom for the entire time, not letting anyone else in. She’d tried to get it to get her good comb that Felix had ‘borrowed’ but found the door locked with a note on it ‘Hair in progress. Disturb at own risk. Signed, Felix Serigo Santana del Rosario.

 “Making an impression,” Felix shrugged. “Can you imagine being the one to finally end the blood feud? I’d be a hero.”

 “You have no chance with that one,” Rico, Felix’s brother butted in and mussed up Felix’s hair. “She’d freeze you over with those icy eyes. You’d have better luck with Harry Yorke. Or try his brother.”

 “Hector’s here?” Felix asked, smoothing his hair back down, “I will be right back.”

 Harry Yorke was nice enough, the Yorkes lived in the neighbouring manor, but they didn’t often meet. The grounds between the two properties were rather… large. Felix used to sneak through the woodland to meet Harry until - 

 Rico nudged Rita’s arm, “Grandmother wants to show you off to people.”

 “Why?” 

 She was not some show piece to be shown off. That’s what the others did with the horses, cleaned them up and took them out to show all their friends. They’d done that to her own horse, Angel, an Andulcian mare from the same line as Rico’s high class stallion. It was Uncle Jaime who took Angel out and ended up selling her to Kilian Falk. 

 She saw Falk standing with Harry as she watched Felix slip away, wishing she could follow him and escape this. Falk’s blonde beard hid the sneer on his face as Felix came up to them. 

 “You’re our youngest. People don’t know you. And you won’t be the only one. That Romano one’s here too, Antonio Romano will be parading her about too. Not often they have a new one to show off, Antonio himself was the last one.” 

 As Rico had said, their grandmother had indeed wanted to ‘show her off’ with every new person she was forced to meet, her mood turned sourer and sourer until she could no longer even enjoy the architecture of the building that she had marvelled at when they first arrived. 

 Rita took the first chance she could to slip away, sneaking through a little door at the side and stepping into a cool corridor, the music instantly muffled. It was then it occurred to her she’d never been told who’s place this was. 

 There was no shortage of families in this area. The Yorkes were their neighbours, Falk and his range of relations had a large range about ten miles south, the Kilbride's twelve miles east. It wasn’t until the carpeted corridor turned into a wider chamber like room with portrait paintings on the wall that she finally learned it was the Ivanov Manor. There was no mistaking the scars across Sergei Ivanov’s face from the claws of a werewolf. 

 The last Ivanov was killed only three years ago by Alfonso Romano and the Manor passed into 

‘Communal control’ meaning a council of families ran it. Her uncle Jaime sat on said council. As side Harry’s mother Sylvie Yorke and Alfonso Romano himself. 

 “You’re missing all the fun.”

 Rita jumped in fright and spun around, coming face to face with the most beautiful Vampire she’d ever seen. A Romano for sure, she had the same curly hair, albeit pinned back, combined with eyes like ice and a pointed jaw.

 “And what fun would that be?” Rita forced out, trying to regain any dignity she still had. Vampires don’t get frights. Yet here she was, getting scared by a Romano creeping up on her.

 “They just brought in the human sacrifice,” the Romano said. She sounded serious but there was no way any Vampire would bring a human to an event like this. Much less to be killed, it was unbecoming. Killing for food was a private affair, at least it was in her family.

 “There is no human sacrifice,” Rita said, just managing to avoid catching the Romano’s eyes. She had such nice eyes, a bright, ice blue. If she was any weaker she might want to just stare at them forever. And if the Romanos were not her family’s most bitter, hated rivals.

 “You got me. Too many Vampire not wanting blood on their nice clothes. It’s such a travesty,” the Vampiress shook her head, the loose curls around her face bouncing slightly with the movement.

 The soft coppery blonde of her hair matched with the dark green of her dress, the fitted lace bodice, left both her shoulders bare as the straps curled around her upper arm. The lace went to her waist and flared out into a heavy skirt that to the ground.

 “You hiding?”

 “No,” Rita lied, “just having a look around,”

 “I saw you being paraded around by that old witch. My dad was doing the same so when I saw escape, I decided I might as well try it too.”

 She must be the new Romano that Felix and Rico were talking about, Antonio’s daughter. Rico hadn’t said her name and Felix had taken off to flirt with Harry and/or Hector before she could ask him.

 “She’s just excited to have new blood around,” Rita defended her grandmother, because that’s what you do. You defend your family and you don’t waste time taking to your family’s enemies, no matter how pretty they may be.

 If her heart still beat she imagined it would be hammering in her chest. She couldn’t remember how that felt now, it had been years since she was alive. In the biological sense.

 “My dad’s the same. I’m the first since him so everyone’s acting like it’s the Messiah or something.”

 “A religious Vampire?” Rita joked. “Never met one of them before.”

 When you live forever, and when religious symbols happen to cause pain, you tend to avoid religion.

 “You are hilarious. Do you know humans have people who make others laugh as a career, you should try out for that, I think you’d go really far.”

 “I think you’re right; I should really try out for that.”

 The other Vampire shoot a smile that literally made her knees weak and her stomach flutter. What was wrong with her? This was a Romano, she shouldn’t even be talking to her, let along joking with her or feeling any of these feelings. But then again, she really was nice to look at…

 The Vampire turned her head and looked down the corridor, the way Rita and presumably this Vampire and come down.

 “Someone’s coming.” The Vampire grabbed her arm and pulled her down the corridor before Rita could protest. She found herself running alongside the Vampire, the carpet muting her heels and the other Vampire’s. Then she was against the wall, shoulder pressed in against a wooden railing part the way up the wall and the other Vampire pressed against her. Actually pressed against her with her hand still around Rita’s arm. She could smell the Vampire’s perfume, it was the same one she normally wore herself.

 One of the serving staff, another Vampire, out with the families passed by without a second look and the Vampire pressed up against took a step back.

 “I’m Veridia, by the way. Veridia Romano,” the Vam – Veridia introduced herself.

 “Margarita Santana del Rosario,” Rita said. Her voice was weaker than she wanted it to be, she was still a little in shock from having Veridia literally pressed right up against her.

 Veridia raised an eyebrow.

 “Most people call me Rita.” Her grandmother and Uncle Jaime were the only ones who called her Margarita. And under official ‘professional’ circumstances where everyone one went by their full and complete names.

 “Well Rita, it’s nice to meet you. Hopefully I’ll see you around,” Veridia let go of her arm and set off back down the corridor. She tried to not to stare, but it was hard not to.

 Rita tucked a loose strand of hair behind her eye and took a deep breath before following after Veridia and rejoining the party.

 Veridia may have been joking about the human sacrifice but no Vampire gathering is complete without a little fresh blood. Mixed with alcohol. It wasn’t the nicest mix in the world but it did enough to stop her thinking about Veridia and focusing instead on dancing with Harry. He was a good dancer, and it was a nice distraction until she caught sight of Veridia across the room standing with her father. Rita’s mind was flooded with the memory of Veridia pushing her against the wall so that server wouldn’t see them.

 Rita managed until the end of the dance and no more before she slipped off again, back down that corridor passed the paintings of the Ivanov’s and Sergei with his scars. Every time she turned she’d been looking for Veridia, so best to just leave completely and hide until it was time to leave. Hopefully no one would pay too much attention, if they did, she’d blame it on the alcohol. Or the blood, it tasted like nothing she’d ever had before. But that could just be the alcohol.

 She could smell Veridia’s perfume again, so managed to avoid jumping when Veridia spoke beside her, “you’re hiding again?”

 “Of course not,” Rita lied. She was technically hiding. From Veridia.

 “So why are you out here?" Veridia asked, her ice eyes seemingly staring right into Rita’s non-existent soul. “You looked like you were having fun with that Yorke boy.”

 “Harry? Felix is more interested in him than I am. Or maybe it’s Hector he likes more…” Felix switched every week between the two. But then he had been interested in Veridia when her saw her, a fact which now made her… jealous? She’d never been jealous before. She should not be jealous not of a Romano.

 “That’s the funny one with the stupid hair isn’t it?” Veridia asked.

 “That’s him.”

 “Tell your Harry to keep him. He kept trying to flirt with me until he got dragged off. No. Thank you.”

 “Probably wise. He locked himself in the bathroom for three hours doing his hair.”

 “Harry can most definitely keep him. I don’t even take three hours.”

 “Neither. It’s insane.”

 Veridia laughed at that. It was a nice, soft feeling that brought up. She made Veridia laugh. Why did it feel nice? It shouldn’t.

 “Come with me,” Veridia held out her hand.

 “Why?” Rita asked. Where would a Romano want to go with her?

 “I found something really cool when I was here with my uncle before, I want to show you. And before you ask – it’s a surprise. You have to come with me to see it.”

 It sounded suspicious. Yet here she was, taking Veridia’s hand. Veridia lead her along the corridor and up a small set of flagstone stairs, then a set of flagstone spiral stairs. This end of the house was so still, no music drifted, no chatter, nothing. Just the sounds of their feet on the stairs.

 On the last step Rita just missed the edge of the step and slipped, tipping forwards. Veridia’s arm shot around her waist to try to pull her up and stop her hitting the stone. All the effort succeed in was Veridia also hitting the ground, thankfully at the top of the stairs. Rita really did not like the idea of the edge of the stairs hitting into her, catching her skirt. Rather, she landed partially on top of Veridia, legs tangled and Veridia’s arm over her back.

 She couldn’t remember how to move. She really couldn’t.

 “Are you okay?”

 Rita nodded, “are you?”

 “Very.”

 Veridia made no effort to remove her arm or try to get up. Maybe she forgot how to move as well. Rita wasn’t going to complain. Especially when Veridia slowly sat up, but kept her arm around Rita. Rita tried to pull away, not willingly, this closeness to another person, especially on as pretty as Veridia, was something she never really had.

 It didn’t really feel… real. She felt like she was going to wake up any second back in her own room and Veridia would just be some dream phantom she imagined.

 She still wasn’t fully convinced even as Veridia titled up her chin with one fingers, her nails painted to match her dress and lightly pressed her lips against Rita’s. Rita kissed Veridia back and reached up to touch Veridia’s face, feeling sharp cheekbones and jawline.

 Veridia’s other hand found it’s way around the back of her neck, her fingers cool as they wound around Rita’s hair.

 _________________________________________

 “I have two questions,” Felix pounced the moment Rita slipped back into the party. “one where have you been? And two why is there blood on your neck?”

 Rita caught Veridia’s eye as the other Vampire rejoined everyone as well, her hair slightly mussed and a smear of red at the corner of her mouth.

 What rivals? And whoever said Vampire blood tasted awful, was clearly lying. 

[shsl-shipper-gamer-fangirl]

Phantom Confidants AU

In an alternate universe, I actually write about a P5 AU where the non-party social links are the phantom thieves of that universe. So Mishima, Hifumi, Shinya, Sojiro, Toranosuke, Iwai, Takemi, Ohya, Chihaya, Kawakami and even Sae. Honestly I would have loved to have an animal in the group but Morgana is the only animal social link and he's an original member. But hey it's still a pretty diverse group considering it's a mix of mostly adults, some teens, and a kid. They've got a pretty badass lineup to be honest so here's how I think it'll go. 

Full plot, codenames, and Mementos chats under the cut: 

(SPOILERS AHEAD) 

Plot Your Heart Out!

So first up, who would be the new protagonist? At first I figured Mishima because he's got that work-in-progress good guy vibes. But then I checked the list and realized that most of the group are adults and not really sure if Mishima can handle the leadership role. So who else? Then it hit me. Best dad Sojiro. Think about it. He had a direct connection with Wakaba who started this whole metaverse discovery. It's the perfect setup! He helped Wakaba with her research from time to time and during one of the experiments, they had discovered the metaverse. Maybe. I'm making this up as I go. Anyways! 

The general premise is that Sojiro was the first Phantom Thief in his youth and became an urban legend later on when he retired. When he took in Futaba, he promised he'd devote himself full time into raising her so he quit the calling card business. Except fast forward many years later, he was forced to wear/rip off his mask again. 

In this AU, Sojiro already changed Futaba's heart early on so Futaba was able to enroll at Shuujin Academy. It's all fine at first until she comes home and brings up Kamoshida and how no one not even adults can lay a hand on him. Her concerns bring out his instinct protect his child from such monster. When conventional methods failed and the rumors of sexual assault is less farfetched from the truth, he didn't hesitate to start stealing hearts again. 

During the infiltration he'll most likely be able to recruit Mishima and Kawakami (both obviously carry good reasons to get back at Kamoshida). Mishima has average stats which makes him a good support member. He gets stronger with baton pass! Someone give this child a confidence booster and he will plow you. Kawakami has the best buffs which makes life so much easier. They succeed and the school becomes safe so he thought his comeback was just a one time thing. Oh he was sorely mistaken. 

At this point, gossip about the Phantom Thieves have spread and such news have even reached our local back alley doctor. During the weeks before Kamoshida's confession, Sojiro had been striking up unethical deals for medicine from her and so she connects the dots. She confronts him at the cafe during a slow night. She doesn't plan on ratting him out however she wants in. She wants him to change the heart of this one doctor and gives him a deadline (she doesn't say at first that it's because of that one girl patient although they find out anyway during the confrontation in the palace). She somehow ends up joining them during infiltration, awakens and joins the team. She is probably the closest friend/acquaintance that Sojiro had among the group before they were phantom thieves. 

Then comes my favorite arc temporary title Guns Ablaze. They're somehow managing in the metaverse but medicine can only go so far. They need good equipment and when they realized that model guns were effective in the metaverse (courtesy of Mishima experimentally bringing one with him once because real guns are illegal), they decide to shop at Untouchable. Only to somehow get roped into his yakuza blackmail drama. 

Sojiro develops a camaraderie with Iwai because they're both single parents trying hard to raise their adopted child. Definitely share the father of the year award. He joins them at the first day of infiltration because this is his fight and he will settle this with them. Hell, he doesn't even hesitate to bring a real gun with him and shoot a shadow even without a persona. Turns out the shadow yakuza is stronger than a few bullets but he faces him head on and awakens. He is Sojiro's best bro and they talk about parenting a lot. 

Halfway through though they get stuck because the shadows are surprisingly agile. Gun attacks are effective but they keep missing their shots. And you guessed it. They're going to have a kid teach them how to shoot a gun. It's embarrassing really at first, especially for the adults, but they respect Shinya for his sharpshooting skills. They hang out with Shinya a couple of times and the kid grew on to them. One time though they decided to head to the palace after training/hanging out with him but they didn't know that Shinya followed them due to some undecided plot device. He wouldn't awaken in the palace tho but he's still in awe. Some time later, the mother issue happens and he asks for their help. He asks to join them when they decide to change her heart and that's how he awakens. He is best boy. They dote on him a lot. 

Meanwhile the Phantom Thieves are gaining popularity, hence a greater demand in media. Ohya being one of those journalists assigned to write about them, accidentally discovers more than just your average article. However, good journalism is confirming facts before publishing half-truths and so she investigates further regarding Sojiro's group. She ends up frequenting either the cafe or the clinic (she tried the airsoft shop but that was too obvious). She ends up being a regular of Sojiro's curry and of Takemi's medicine (altho she just goes there to flirt err fish info). It takes a while, weeks even, but at some point, someone slips. She gets her evidence on them being Phantom Thieves but she has no plans on outing them just yet. She asks them to change the heart of her boss and they do, with her help even. She insists on tagging along and they couldn't shake her off so she comes with them. She awakens when she confronts her boss' shadow. From there on, she's been helping the team with selecting their targets because who better than a journalist? 

Recruiting Hifumi was probably the most obscure accident, mostly because I honestly can't think of a good connection just yet. There's the fact that she goes to church and Wakaba's grave is near there but even that is grasping straws. Maybe Hifumi put in a mementos request? Somehow got dragged by proximity when they went to mementos and she was just on her way to catch the late train home? I don't know. Someone help me. Chihaya too. I was thinking that Chihaya gets involved with Ohya's arc. Maybe they're friends since they both frequent the red light district. Yeah let's go with that. Chihaya is obviously the navigator of the group so she's a must have party member and Hifumi is the strategist also a must have. They work hard okay. 

Moving on! At some point they try to target the politician from Toranosuke's social link. But it becomes their shortest case ever. Tora had somehow figured that his old acquaintance could be targeted by the phantom thieves and he wants to stop the, but he has no way of contacting them. One day he went to visit that guy's place but coincidentally it was his place of distortion. Coincidentally, the phantom thieves were there and unaware of Tora's proximity. He gets pulled in with them. They never did manage to beat the Palace ruler. Instead Tora just talks it put with the shadow and the palace crumbles after negotiations succeed. Everyone's confused as to what just happened but they're not against it. Tora awakens on his own the next time he joins them, probably in Mementos. He refuses to fight but he always steps up to talk with shadows willing to negotiate. 

At this point, the phantom thieves reputation is skyrocketing. The hype is so strong that Sojiro gets a warrant of arrest. Sae hadn't confirmed it yet but she has made enough connections to point Sojiro as a suspect phantom thief. They do their own research to find out the best way to get out of this. During their investigation, they find out that there's been a suspicious pressure to have the phantom thieves arrested, abnormally so. They deduce that although Sae was an immediate threat, she was just being pulled by the strings. 

They needed to see the bigger picture and to so that, perhaps Sae was the key. They need her cooperation and to have that, they need her to have a change of heart except without the excessive guilt to render her incapacitated. They tried talking it out with her but when that failed they had no choice but had her face the facts, or rather face her shadow self. Sae awakens in her own palace, realizing how twisted her desires had become. When they escape, she asks if she could join their cause and they gladly welcome her. 

Shido is the last palace not just because of him being a corrupt prime minister but also considering the motherfucker had Wakaba murdered which makes this personal for Sojiro. After all, not only did Sojiro love Wakaba (romantically or not) but she was also the reason he was able to become a Phantom Thief in the first place. That fucking dildo Shido is long overdue to be brought down by Sojiro so that Wakaba can have some semblance of justice. Oh and Japan gets saved too I guess. (Yaldabaoth who?) 

>>Oh yeah, although Futaba isn't a thief here, it's not because she doesn't know. It's only because Sojiro forbade her and his word is law so she's still mad about that. She still helps as Alibaba though. Honestly best non-party member confidant of Sojiro and that's not just father bias talking. Okay maybe a little father bias but he's a proud dad okay. 

>>Also Morgana is a social link of Sojiro's. Except it's really just Sojiro being a softie with the cat. He has no idea what Morgana's meows mean (does he even talk/transform in this au?) but he is a good landlord and sometimes he feeds the cat better than he does Akira. 

>>Originally I didn't want Sojiro to be a Wild Card but due to Persona Tradition, in order to be a protagonist one must be a special snowflake with lots of facades inside. So I guess his velvet room would look like a cafe only without the coffee because Caroline and Justine (or just Lavenza) are kids and coffee is bad for them. Sojiro feels so uncomfortable with Igor behind the counter because for a barista to not touch them coffee beans at all, that's pretty suspicious. 

—

Codenames 'subject to change' 

Sojiro Sakura - Solo (single shot of espresso) 

Yuuki Mishima - Wolf (talk about wolf in sheep's clothing or is it the other way around?) 

Hifumi Togo - Jade or General (because shogi) 

Shinya Oda - Trigger (guns guns guns)

 Munehisa Iwai - Gecko (his tattoo) 

Tae Takemi - Witchdoctor or Plague (she protec but she also attac) 

Ichiko Ohya - Rebel (fight the power!) 

Sadayo Kawakami - Burnout (teachers have no chill) 

Chihaya Mifune - Tarot (fortune telling duh) 

Toranosuke Yoshida - Tiger (his name) 

Sae Niijima - Empress or Judge (her personality)

—

Mementos Chats: 

Ohya: No matter how much I drink every night, my body still gets hangovers sometimes. Hey, Takemi. You're a doctor, right? Know any good medicine for this? 

Takemi: I can actually prescribe you with the best medicine. Prevention. "Drink moderately" is an effectively proven motto to live by. 

—

Toranosuke: I tried checking this "phansite" and I keep seeing the "pound sign heart stolen", could you explain to me what that means? 

Mishima: ...Did you mean hashtag? I think I'll be explaining to you more than just that. 

—

Shinya: Are all adults like this? Stressed? I've been thinking about how I'm not growing up fast enough but now I think I just want to be a kid forever. 

Iwai: Smart move, kid. But don't let us get to you. Us adults are fun too, heh, when we're not too buried in bills and taxes.

— 

Iwai: Hey, know any good places to bring your kid? 

Sojiro: Depends on what he likes and the occasion. From what I heard, your kid already likes you enough so just go out and have fun with the kid. 

—

Mishima: Between studying and phantom thieving, I think I just might be better with the latter. 

Kawakami: Why? Last time I checked, your grades seem pretty okay. Are you having difficulties with any of your subjects recently? You know you can always ask me to teach you. 

—

Kawakami: I know I signed up for this but this is too exhausting! I don't even have the energy to check papers after. When I get home, I just collapse on my bed! 

Ohya: I know what you mean. I can't even make a pit stop at my favorite bar! 

—

Chihaya: I've seen shadows in my fortune tellings but to think that I'll be using it against literal shadows. The city sure is amazing ain't it. 

Hifumi: I'm not sure if it is exclusive to the city. Nevertheless, it is always fascinating to watch you work, Chihaya-san. 

—

Hifumi: Despite this group being composed mostly of adults, I find myself strangely at ease... 

Sae: Even as an adult, I agree with that sentiment. This is... a wonderful group to belong to.

—

Sae: I've been meaning to ask this but how do you juggle Phantom Thief work with your real world jobs? I honestly didn't think you had any free time to spare. As a case example, I myself only get by with four hours of sleep on slow days.

Takemi: We seriously need to reevaluate your working schedule... That or quit your job. Can't have you dying from exhaustion on us. 

—

Takemi: I may be a doctor but you all need to look after yourselves better. If any of you collapse, I'm not footing your hospital bills. 

Sojiro: What's this? Free medical advice? You've gotten soft. 

—

Sojiro: So you've been hanging out with Akira and Futaba lately? Those two can't be good influences on you. 

Shinya: They're cool, I guess. Heh, so what if they're bad influences? I hang out enough with you guys at night so that should balance it out, right?

—

Some other trivia: 

Since most of the group are adults with full time jobs, they do most of the phantom thief stuff at night 

They also work out a schedule because they have a lot of responsibilities outside phan stuff 

Still, since Sojiro is a veterinarian at this, they usually accomplish a lot in an hour or two so that helps 

Mishima and Hifumi are forbidden to do any phantom thief activities during exams week 

Meanwhile Kawakami excuses herself for the week after finals week (checking papers is exhausting okay) 

Kawakami is at the forefront of "long weekends do not touch" and "holidays touch them and you die" because teachers need those okay 

Kawakami volunteers to clean the dirty armor they find but on the condition that she gets first dibs on good armor 

Mishima still manages the phansite and he's super proud about the work they do 

Mishima visits the cafe a lot and eventually befriends Akira and Futaba 

Hifumi still speaks dramatically when giving orders or planning strategies in the metaverse 

Hifumi is actually very extra but they just let her be 

Toranosuke can't really fight much but damn he's good at them shadow negotiations 

Toranosuke can't join much because he campaigns at night but he makes it a point to be present at least once a week and during important meetings 

Shinya can't stay too late either so they either go in earlier sometimes or make up an excuse in unexpected cases 

You'd think Shinya would get teased a lot but he's actually doted upon 

Gee Shinya, how come you get to have three dads? 

Iwai and Sojiro are best dad friends and you can't tell me otherwise 

Iwai only cancels on them for father-son bonding and he usually gives them prior notice 

Ohya is the type who cancels at the last minute or arrives late 

Ohya is also the one who invites the adults out for drinks after 

Sojiro offers coffee as an alternative for those who want or may need it 

Takemi is the strict mom friend who doesn't let anyone get sick on her watch 

Takemi forbids anyone to do anything further the moment the first signs of exhaustion show 

Takemi has a special skill that makes her immune to status ailments (unlockable with social link rank up) 

Chihaya does their fortunes upon request with or without persona (she still uses her tarot cards either way) 

Chihaya still slips in her accent sometimes especially when they get ambushed 

Sae is super conscious about used to having a palace (and the only one in the team who had one) but the squad is understanding and she feels happy to be accepted even still 

Sae actually gets along pretty well with them despite their previous conflicts, which are all water under the bridge 

Sae is probably the most OP out of all of them, maybe it's because she had to face her own shadow, hmmm 

The women of the group do hang, sometimes even go out for drinks 

Hifumi joins mostly on weekends because those are in the mornings and Takemi forbids alcohol as long as the sun is out so they just window shop mostly or eat out 

More often than not, those hang outs extend into evenings so Hifumi excuses herself and Ohya now drags the rest to Crossroads 

Meanwhile the guys just chill at Cafe Leblanc, sometimes Iwai even brings his son 

They do have outings with the whole squad (sometimes plus Futaba!) 

They are a good squad, and god I love this AU

—

I uhhhh wanted to write down everything, like codename, outfit, persona, awakening scene, skills, mementos chats with each other, and all but I didn't have the time. Maybe I'll do them in another post? Maybe. Just know that I love them confidants and this au stole my heart. 

If anyone wants to add, draw, write for the Phantom Confidants AU then feel free to do so! Have fun with this idea and enjoy!!

[graceofaphoenix]

The Hatching of a Plan

Rhon: ::Snarling at my image in the mirror as I adjusted the fancy suit I wore, feeling it tight around my large body. I hate this part of my life and I felt like nights like this were a waste of time, a waste of a night that could be spent hunting the scum. Tonight was yet another Glymera party and while I would normally just sneak out and not show up, my mahmen had been keeping a rather close eye on me ever since the other night so it was best if I at least made my existence known at this party. Looking away from the mirror long enough to send a text to my partner, letting him know I wouldn’t be there tonight even though the Scribe knew I wanted to be. My partner was a good man, a civilian who wanted to fight the Lessers and although he was an amazing fighter, it didn’t hurt to have some back up once in awhile. Once the message was sent, I looked back up at my reflection staring at the stupid suit I had managed to squeeze into and once again sneered at how I looked. I wanted nothing to do with the Glymera and these suits I was forced to wear during these parties made me feel like a prisoner in my own body, I much rather be wearing my leathers. “Rhon, hurry up! The Doggen will be here any minute with the car.” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at my mothers impatience and want to take a car two blocks from the house. It was needless to have a Doggen take us such short distance when we could dematerialize or even just walk it. Taking one last look in the mirror and sneering once again, I leave the room and head to the front door where my family was waiting, tonight was going to be a long night. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: Black was definitely my color but, red was a close second, and at events like tonight, red was my favorite option. I pulled out a sleek, scarlet, strapless gown from my closet and hung it up on the corner of my floor-length mirror. This one would be perfect. I would wear my hair up, with a few soft, curly tendrils of hair falling loosely against my shoulders, diamond dangles from my ears and my diamond rosary necklace that matches, laying perfectly atop my decolletage. For makeup, Dolce & Gabbana’s “Candy Apple” lipstick would be the perfect shade for this gown. Add in a little smokey eye and some blush, and the look would be complete.

I loved these Glymera events. It was like going to a grand ball; everyone was dressed to the nines, there was expensive champagne flowing until the early hours of the next day, and there was dancing. Of course, I hadn’t done much dancing in the past few years, seeing as my male was never even a thought on the guest list. He wasn’t Glymera, not even close. He was a civilian, and a fighter. Neither station fit for a Glymera female. Hence, all the secrets. I really did hate lying to my parents all the time but, there was no way they would ever consider him as a “viable candidate” (their words, not mine) for their one and only daughter. It hadn’t been until recently that they began to push me towards finding a mate. My mahmen had started “The Hunt” as I called it. She had actually brought males into our home for dinners, to try and match me up. The more I pushed against her attempts, the harder she seemed to fight back. I definitely got my stubbornness from my mahmen. No question there!

It took me about an hour and a half of fussing but, I was finally happy with my look for the night. Grabbing a clutch and tossing a few necessities into it, I made my way to the foyer. “Are you sure there’s nothing you missed up there, sis? Maybe, one hair you forgot to pluck in your left eyebrow, or something?” my brother’s comment dripped of sarcasm.

“At least I actually bathed myself, fully. How is it you can cover your whole body in a three minute shower?” I retorted. It was all in good fun. We liked to taunt each other but, when push came to shove, my twin and I were thick as thieves.

“Enough.” My mahmen said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “I swear, you act like you’re both still twelve sometimes.” Waving a hand towards the door. “Now, get in the car. Your sire will meet us there.”

The three of us piled into the back of our stretch limo and headed downtown to the gala. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::The ride to the party was a quiet one, my youngest brother still a bit afraid of me after the knife throwing incident and my other brother wasn’t much of a talker to begin with. Once we pulled up in front of the house, my mahmen seemed to look at all of us and her gaze fell upon me. “For once Rhon, please don’t cause a scene and actually make us proud to call you our son.” I knew my mother at times hated claiming me and it wouldn’t of surprised me if both my parents had discussed disowning me a time or two and although I loved fighting, it didn’t mean I loved the disapproval of my parents.:: Yes, Mahmen. ::It was a simple reply and I knew I would do my best to do what was asked of me, no matter how much I despised these social gatherings. My mother seemed to stare at me for a moment or two longer as if she was trying to decide to believe me or not before she finally offered me a rare smile and spoke again. “Maybe with any luck you will find a nice female at this party and maybe give up that thought of being a fighter.” I had to bite my tongue in order to not get snippy with my mother but in my head all I could think was that not even the Scribe Virgin could provide my mother with that miracle. Quietly I exited the car and made my way into the gala, scanning the room for a certain person whom tended to make these damn parties a bit bearable at the very least. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: Excitement buzzed through me like a live wire as we pulled up to the venue and the driver got out, walked around the car and opened up the car door for us. I may not agree with the politics of my station but, that didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the perks that came from growing up with old money, and these galas were one of my favorites.

The driver offered his hand to me, in assistance. I reached out and took it and he helped me out of the car. I immediately moved out of the way to let my mahmen and brother out, all the while taking in the enormity of the place. There was carpeting laid out on the walkway and stairs, leading up to the massive entryway, lined with ancient, greek-looking pillars. The lighting was soft, yet still enough to light the entire passage.

Once everyone was out of the car, I just about bolted up the stairs, silk shawl blowing in the wind behind me.

“Larimar!” I heard my mahmen speak under her breath. Custom was, the families would enter together, /calmly/ and orderly. Proper. It was embarrassing enough to her that my sire was meeting us there. There was no way in hell the three of us were walking in separately.

I inhaled a deep breath. “Okay. Okay.” I replied, as I turned around on the top step and waited for my mahmen and brother to catch up. Once they had, I linked arms with my brother, Killian, and shot off a bright smile to my mahmen. “Ready?”

She just shook her head and walked one step ahead of us.

Killian elbowed me in my ribs, “Could you just settle down for five minutes to get us through the doors?”

With a sly grin on my face, I shifted my body to hold my head up just a little higher, rounded my shoulders back, and demurely adjusted my stance. The deviation in my body was slight but, the impact of the adjustments were great. I now looked like the perfect, proper princess my mahmen was expecting me to be as I entered the great hall behind her. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::One by one the other aristocrat families began to arrive and slowly people would drift off to their own cliques within the bigger clique. I never really fit in anywhere among any of the cliques, of course everyone was polite and kind with me as I approached them with our family status being what it was, but that didn’t mean they actually /wanted/ to socialize with me. I stick by my family, keeping a half smile upon my lips as I was introduced to several families that I wouldn’t even bother to remember as it was rare I even came to these events.

After introductions, I was allowed to drift off on my own, my mahmen not far from me though as she kept her eye on me, making sure I didn’t sneak off in some shape or form and just disappear. Every once in awhile I would sneak up on a small group of people and throw myself into the conversation, only half paying attention just to make it seem like I was interacting and make my family happy, that alone was a chore in itself. My eyes kept drifting to the door, knowing that soon enough the one person I was hoping to be here would be here soon, and sure enough just as I peeked over, in walked @Larimar_BDBRW with her family.

I turned to the current group I was talking with and politely excused myself before making my way over towards @Larimar_BDBRW keeping to the edge of the room so she wouldn’t see me, or at least that is what I was hoping for. Managing to make my way behind Larimar, I waited as her family went through the same greetings every other family would go through before stepping up almost right behind her as stealthy as I possible could and whispered right next to her ear.:: Well fancy meeting you here, @Larimar_BDBRW.

Larimar: The entire idea of what I liked to call “the receiving line” at these things drove me crazy! I just wanted in! I didn’t want to have to go around and say hello to every single person my family knew, and some we didn’t, just to be able to find our table, settle in with some champagne and head off to do some people watching. Rhon would most undoubtedly be here, too. We always found some fun to be had. Rhon had become a pretty good friend. He had been my parent’s choice for my transition, and as much as I hated the idea of going through that with someone other than my male, I simply had no other choice. Rhon had turned out to be the perfect male for the job, though. Thankfully, there had been no interest on his end and it ended up being a purely businesslike exchange. Over the years, he had been my go-to for feedings, as well. Being as high up in the Glymera as I was, feedings were done with an audience. So, once again, I was going to have to go with someone other than my male. I’m not quite sure what Rhon got out of the deal. But, he always seemed happy to oblige. My parents were probably paying him, or something. Either that or, he was just doing it out of the goodness of his heart, for a friend. We never really talked about it much. It wasn’t a favorite topic of mine.

Anyway, my family was finally coming to the end of our “receiving line” and just about on our way to drop our purses, coats and other essential at our table when out of nowhere, there was a soft breath tickling my ear. My hand went up without thought and I slapped Rhon right in the face. As I turned around, both gloved hands went to my mouth, covering the beginnings of a laugh. “Rhon! I’m so sorry! But, you should know better than to sneak up on me like that.”

My mahmen whipped around sharply and gave both Rhon and I a glare that said, “If you two embarrass me tonight, there’s going to be trouble.” Then without a second thought, she plastered a beauty queen smile on her face, turned back around, and faced the crowd, gallantly walking to our table.

My gaze shot to Rhon as I gave him a look saying, “Uh, oh! We’re definitely in trouble now.” and a small giggle escaped from my lips. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::The second @Larimar_BDBRW turned around I could see the slap coming and I actually had to fight back my reflex to stop it, not everyone here knew about my side job as a fighter and I didn’t want my mahmen having to explain it. I had to admit, Larimar had some really good strength to her but the look of utter surprise upon her face was worth the sting to my cheeks as I chuckled and rubbed at my cheek. For a moment I felt like a child again, getting yelled at for my shenanigans when Larimar’s mother turned on us and the look from Larimar afterwards made me stifle a snort as my eyes rolled just a bit.

My eyes glanced over @Larimar_BDBRW and a soft smile came to my lips as I took in the beauty of the dress and make up she was wearing before finally speaking again.:: You know for someone who’s as radiant as you, you pack one hell of a punch. ::I laughed as I shook my head and nodded towards an empty table, granted it wasn’t with our families but I was okay with that. “Shall we go catch up and see what other kind of trouble the night could bring us?” (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: At Rhon’s compliment, I politely stepped back with one foot and curtsied, bowing my head like a proper young female of the Glymera race. However, I couldn’t hold in the chuckle long. As I stood back up, I leaned into him and whispered, “I’ll take you on, any day of the week.” Knowing, that with his little side hobby, there was no way I could take him. Pulling back, “I should probably go at least drop my purse at my family’s table. Give me a couple minutes and meet me at the champagne fountain?”

I didn’t give Rhon much of a chance to do more than nod before I headed off to my family’s table. I had certain responsibilities to my family and Rhon understood that. My sire was at the table waiting for us. I went around the table, dropped my clutch and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. “Good evening, sire.”

“Larimar. Killian. I hope you’re behaving for your mahmen.” It was more of a statement than a question and Killian and I just nodded as my father leaned in, took my mahmen around the waist and pulled her towards him. “Leelan.” He leaned down and gave her a kiss. “I’m sorry I couldn’t arrive with you tonight. I had matters of intense import at the office.”

“Not at all, my love. It was nice to get a chance to have Larimar and Killian all to myself.” She shot us both a knowing glance. “Okay, you two. Go. But, /behave/. Understood? Remember who you are.”

“Yes, mahmen.” Killian and I replied in unison, and I was off for the champagne fountain, to see what kind of trouble Rhon and I could find.

Grabbing a champagne flute off the table, I slid up next to Rhon and leaned back against the table. “So, are we hiding from your mahmen tonight, or should I take a minute to make an appearance and say, ‘Hello.’”? (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon:

::I knew I was imagining things but it seemed everyone my mahmen or father was talking to, ended up staring at me as I waited for @Larimar_BDBRW by the champagne fountain and it made me want to tell them all to take a picture. I welcomed the sight of Larimar walking towards the champagne fountain a few minutes later, knowing that at least things will get interesting soon enough. My eyes roll as my mahmen is mentioned and I take the champagne flute from @Larimar_BDBRW and take a sip of it before I shake my head just slightly.:: There’s not going to be much avoiding my mahmen tonight, she won’t be far away. There was an incident yesterday and now she’s making sure I’m not too far out of sight.

::Nudging @Larimar_BDBRW with my shoulder as I look around the gala and shake my head a bit.:: You know, I never did get how you could possibly enjoy all of this. ::The words came out in a hiss almost as my hand waves to encompass the entire gala before me, my head shaking.:: The more I try to make my mahmen happy and participate the more ashamed I become of being apart of this bloodline. ::I didn’t know why I felt like I could tell Larimar pretty much everything, including my thoughts about the Glymera, but it almost came as second nature now a days. My head turns slightly so I can look over @Larimar_BDBRW for a moment.:: There’s too many rules for my liking.

Larimar: Once Rhon relieved me of the drink in my hand, I reached back and grabbed one for myself. Arching a slender brow in his direction, “An incident, huh?” I could only imagine what he had done to get himself into trouble with his mahmen this time. Truth was, trouble seemed to follow Rhon around wherever he went. It was the details of the stories I enjoyed, though.

Following the gesture of his hand with my gaze as he waved around the room, I couldn’t keep the smile from radiating off my features. “Are you kidding, Rhon? Look at all the pretty dresses, and shoes! Can’t forget the shoes!” I winked in his direction. “And the champagne, the dancing, the brilliant lighting that’s incredibly soft, yet bright enough to light up the entire room. It’s like watching the ball Cinderella went to where she lost her shoe, only in real life.” I let out a small sigh. “You know I don’t agree with the politics of our station but,” and now it was my turn to wave my hand around the room, “Just look at this ballroom, in all its glory. It’s majestic.” I took a small, dainty sip of my champagne before turning to Rhon and adjusting his coat. “You know, maybe if you just looked a little harder, you might find a female to go home to, instead of your parents.” I teased. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon:

::If my head snapped in Larimar’s direction any quicker, I would of gotten whiplash and if looks could kill, she would of been dead a million times over. The thought of even bothering to look for anyone to go home to was at the bottom of my to-do list, especially since the only type of person that would be acceptable is someone of the same status as myself and those of that status didn’t chase after fighters. Yes I was an aristocrat by blood but I was a fighter by calling and I couldn’t help but feel at times that fighting was in my blood more than the Glymera was.:: You know good and well I could care less about dating, I’m a fighter not a lover.

Larimar and I could sit here arguing back and forth about what was majestic and what wasn’t, but I really didn’t see the point in it to be honest. Instead I scan the room looking for my youngest brother before pointing him out to Larimar, a little smirk crossing my lips as I notice the scrape on the tip of his nose.:: Notice my brother’s new beauty mark on his nose. That may of been caused by one of my daggers after he threatened to wake up my mahmen one night when I came home late. That is where true beauty is at Larimar. Defending our race from the scum that would see us dead. The Brothers, the trainees, the King, all of the civilians who defends us, that’s what’s beautiful. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: I didn’t even bother to turn and acknowledge Rhon’s look. I could only imagine the daggers I was getting. Yet, I did a pretty good job at holding back the chuckle. I knew he wasn’t looking to make one of these Glymera Stepford Wives his mate but, I never thought I would find a mate in a civilian, either. I had always hoped to find someone in the Glymera that felt the same way I did about the politics. But, life didn’t work out that way. The male of my dreams ended up being someone so far from that, it was scary sometimes. Finally, turning to face Rhon, I spoke somewhat quietly, “You know. You never know what you might find if you just step back and take a look. One of these females might surprise you.” I had a faraway look on my face, as I once again adjusted his coat, in some ways wishing it was the coat of my male, and he was here with me, sharing in this piece of my world that I loved. I had never told Rhon about him. Truth was, I was afraid to tell anyone about him. You never knew who was listening. Plus, once you tell one person, it’s like breaking a crack in a dam. You can’t put that genie back in the bottle.

As Rhon changed the subject, one corner of my lips quirked up and I quickly shot back at him, “And exactly how many lessers were perched on your brother’s nose at the time?”

As a photographer, I had a different outlook on what exactly beauty was from the rest of the world. Rhon and I had been through this discussion before. I had once tried to explain to him the beauty of a banana rhine that we found next to a dumpster. He didn’t get it. A small glimmer of a smile flashed across my lips as the memory danced through my thoughts. I did get what he was saying, though. I understood the beauty of the fight against evil. The story, and the art to go along with it, was as old as time.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah… “ I rolled my eyes and quickly changed the subject, as I looked back out across the dancefloor, “So, are you going to allow me to get one dance in tonight, before you poof out into the wind?” (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon:

::I noticed the distant look in Larimar’s eyes as she adjusted my coat yet again and I even recognized the look. It was the kind of look I got often when stuck at Glymera events and I found my mind wandering to someplace else but for Larimar, she loved these events so I couldn’t help but wonder where her mind was. Even after Larimar took the time to adjust my coat, I adjusted it back the way it was so it was a bit sloppy, it’s how I was comfortable.::

I’m not going anywhere as long as my mahmen is here, I’ll never be able to sneak out without her noticing so you have me all night to dance with.

::Reaching out I grab ahold of Larimar’s hand and pull her out onto the dance floor as a slow song comes on, a little smirk crossing my lips as my hands grip her hips lightly and I began to dance to the music.:: However that means I have all night to drag out of you where your mind just was a moment ago as you were adjusting my coat. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: I huffed out a small sigh and shook my head as Rhon readjusted his coat. “Really?” I knew he hated these events but, he actually looked good when he got all dressed up and it annoyed me to no end when he wouldn’t let me make those small adjustments that made all the difference in his outfit.

It didn’t take much to light up my features with a smile, though, and dancing was one of those ways. So, when Rhon reached out and pulled me out to the dancefloor, the frustrated frown on my face disappeared in seconds. Placing one hand in his and the other on his shoulder, we drifted much more gracefully than he would ever admit around the floor. The only thing that could make this better would be if it were my male out on this floor with me.

I always thought I could hide my thoughts and feelings pretty well. I had managed to hide my male from my whole family and all my friends for three years. Even the closest of my friends didn’t know about him. That was due to the whole genie in a bottle thing. It had always been safer that way. But, as our relationship grew stronger and stronger, those feelings got harder and harder to disguise, and apparently, Rhon had been paying attention. I debated whether or not it was time to confide in someone, just one person. It would be so nice to be able to talk to someone, and who better than Rhon to know. He was the one that was feeding me, from time to time. Out of all my friends, I don’t think I had a more intimate relationship with anyone else, aside from my male. Plus, he trusted me with his secret. I should be able to allow myself to trust him with mine. Then again, would he even understand? When he said earlier that he could care less about dating, he truly meant it. Never had I heard him express an interest in any female. Plus, it’s not like I could talk to him here, in the middle of this gala. There were too many people to overhear.

I looked up at Rhon, flashed him a gentle smile and quietly shook my head. “Oh, it’s nothing. I was just off in my own world, as usual. You know me.” (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::I knew how much Larimar loved to dance and the smile that came over her face, made me smile. I was glad that I could make Larimar smile simply because how much our lives were intertwined with each other. I was there to help her through her transition and even now I was there when she needed to feed. Larimar was not only my best friend, but probably my only friend so any chance I got to make her smile, I enjoyed it. As we danced around the ballroom, I watched not only her but everyone around and I notice my mahmen looking on with a satisfied smile upon her lips, score one for me.

My eyes narrowed as Larimar told me that she was just in her own world and I shook my head just slightly before twirling her and then pulling her back in and dipping her as I leaned over her, a smirk playing across my lips.:: I do know you Larimar, that’s how I know you’re full of shit right now. ::Chuckling a bit as I stand Larimar up and continue to dance with her, my eyes looking on her for a moment before I continue to talk.:: You know you can tell me anything. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: I loved the Rhon knew how to dance, and was willing to come out on the dancefloor with me during these events. The way he twirled me around and dipped me was straight out of a fairy tale, minus the charming prince… not that he wasn’t an amazing male. He just wasn’t my prince.

I grinned as Rhon told me how full of shit I was, and as he pulled me back up and commented on how I could tell him anything, I let out another soft sigh. He was so right, on both counts. I was totally full of shit, which wasn’t uncommon for me, as of late. I had been lying to everyone, constantly. And yes, I could tell him anything. I knew I could. So, what had been holding me back? Oh yeah, that damn genie. It all seemed so stupid now. If I could trust anyone, it was Rhon.

Before I could even stop myself, I grabbed a hold of the back of his neck, pulled him down so his ear was less than an inch from my lips, and I whispered, “I met a male.” I let go for a split second before grabbing his neck again and tugging him back, “I mean, I’ve fallen in love with a male… a civilian.” This time I let him go and allowed him to withdraw, all the while searching his eyes for surprise, confusion, astonishment, disapproval, but hopefully, acceptance, anything to tell me what he was thinking. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon:

::For a split second as Larimar pulled me down, I thought she was going to kiss me, but instead I felt her warm breath on my ear which sent a shiver up and down my spine, my eyes growing wide as I heard her words. She had met a male, a civilian one at that. As I pulled back from Larimar, my feet stopped moving and luckily so had the music so it didn’t seem all that awkward. Quickly I forced my face into a passive look, keeping my shock to myself as I grabbed Larimar’s hand and pulled her not only off the dance floor but out of the gala all together. This was definitely not a conversation to have in front of the entire Glymera.

Once outside, I turn on Larimar and look at her, my eyes shining with confusion but also joy for my friend, my voice soft and quiet in case anyone was in earshot of us and I just shook my head.:: Your mahmen is going to kill you if your sire doesn’t disown you first. ::I kept my voice calm and non-judgemental, after all I never did agree with the rules and politics that came along with our status, that much was obvious with my want to fight.:: How did you manage to meet a civilian? Does he treat you right? :: I had a million questions for Larimar, but none of them were anything for blame or anything along those lines, I just wanted to make sure Larimar was being treated like she should be, she was my only friend after all.:: (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: The moment Rhon’s feet stopped on the floor, my eyes shifted around the room. Thankfully, the song had ended and no one was really paying any attention. But, terrifying thoughts ran through my mind. Had I spoken too loud? Had anyone else heard me? Could they tell by the look on my face how I felt, that I was in love? My gaze shot back to Rhon as he suddenly tore me away from the dancefloor.

Once outside, I saw a hundred emotions flicker across Rhon’s face. I was having a hard time deciphering what he was thinking. For a moment, I thought I saw happiness but, when he spoke, I wasn’t sure. The tone of his voice was gentle, yet still had a slight firmness to it. I wasn’t quite sure if he was reprimanding me, or just afraid for me. The thought of being disowned by my family brought tears to my eyes.

“Rhon, I know! I know exactly what they would say and do. I’ve been going over that in my mind for a long time…” I tried to catch my breath. “Do you remember that summer when I went to see my cousin upstate? I met him there. He was visiting friends too, and it turned out, he was from Caldwell. That got us talking, and it was instantaneous between us. And yes, he treats me like the world, and the moon, revolve around me.” There was a brightness to my voice as I spoke about him, yet there were still tears in my eyes. The amount of emotions I was feeling right now was astounding. Fear, love, confusion, joy, exhaustion, and relief all had a place, at the moment. (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::I watched the way Larimar’s body spoke along with listening to her words, I had gotten rather good at deciphering body language as it was a damn good use for fighting. I didn’t need to hear her words to see how much in love she was and instantly my lips curled up into a grin from ear to ear. My hands reached up and gently wiped the tears from Larimar’s eyes as I cupped her cheek in my hand and gently caressed it to try and calm her.:: Shhh! It’s okay Larimar, you have nothing to fear. You’ve kept my secret and I will keep yours and do everything I can to make sure nothing happens. You deserve love no matter who it’s with.

::My arms wrap around Larimar and I bring her in for a big hug, my hands rubbing calmly over her back. I knew what it was like to have to hold a secret so deep that if it was ever uncovered it would destroy not only my life, but the life of my family as well. It was something I never would of wished for upon my worst enemy let alone Larimar.

As I sat there holding Larimar and doing everything I could to comfort her, an idea came to me, one that made my heart began to pound. An idea that could help both of us.:: Wait, what if we were to date? (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: The second Rhon’s lips spread into a grin and he reached his hand out to wipe away my tears, I knew I had done the right thing. He would keep my secret. Although, that was never in question. What had been, was whether or not he would understand, and he did. It didn’t matter to him who this male was, what he did, or where he came from. All that mattered to Rhon was I be treated the way he expected me to be.

I thought I would be okay, for about a split second. But, then Rhon embraced me with his huge arms and gave me the biggest bear hug. I couldn’t stop it from happening. It was as if all my emotions compiled together and burst that fucking dam. The floodgates opened and the tears just flowed freely. Damn it! I didn’t want this to happen. How was I going to go back inside and face everyone with red eyes and mascara down to my chin?

That’s when he said it, the dating thing, and I couldn’t help by pull away and laugh. It was a reflex. I wasn’t even quite sure what I was laughing at. “Rhon, I just told you I was in love with someone?” (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::For a moment I was offended by Larimar laughing at the idea and then it clicked that I didn’t fully explain myself, my own laughter joining in on Larimar’s.:: I don’t mean actually date, just pretend. ::My mind was running a million miles a minute as the idea ran through my mind. Larimar and I both had a secret that we needed to be kept from our families and we could use each other as an excuse as to our whereabouts if we were ever questioned.:: We tell our families we’ve decided to mate and then when we want to do what we want, we just tell our families we’re going out with each other. My family would assume that maybe I’ve given up on my want to fight, and your family would get to think that you have chosen a male of worth. ::My eyes nearly rolled out of my head as I had to say the words ‘male of worth’ but I got it out.

Sure Larimar and I would have to pretend to be a couple in front of the entire Glymera but it would also get us both what we wanted. I would get to fight without having to worry about my parents and Larimar would get to spend more time with her male. (@Larimar_BDBRW)

Larimar: As I wiped away at the tears that were still streaming intermittently down my cheeks, I listened to Rhon go on about his idea. It was simple and brilliant but, could it actually work? Would people buy into it? We would have to do it carefully. I still wouldn’t be able to go out into public with my male, and Rhon would have to be take even more care not to get caught out, while fighting the lessers. One mistake and the whole thing could blow up in our faces. But… it could actually work. My mahmen had been telling me for years that Rhon was perfect for me. She always had had a soft spot for him. Could I do that too her, though. Give her that hope? It would be so easy. She would never second guess where I was, if she thought I was with Rhon. But, the lies… Then again, what other choice did I have? This was my way out. I was in love with a male that my family would never allow me to be with. If we did this, if we put on this ruse, I could have it all, my love and my family. I wouldn’t have to choose. Who better to trust with sharing in these lies than Rhon?

“That could possibly work. We’d still have to be super careful. But, we already spend a lot of time together. My mahmen is going to be thrilled! She’s always wanted the two of us to get together. I’m surprised she hasn’t pushed that idea on your mahmen, yet.” (@SonInCamo_BDBRW)

Rhon: ::Sitting there and watching Larimar’s expression for a moment or two, being able to see the wheels turn in her head as she thought about the idea. I could tell the exact moment that everything clicked in her head as it did for me and I couldn’t help but chuckle a little bit as I pulled Larimar into a hug, and just held her for a moment before pulling back, a grin covering my lips.:: To be honest with you, my mahmen brought you up on the way over here, I’m not too sure your mahmen didn’t put her up to it. ::The laugh that escaped my lips was a booming laugh that came from deep within my chest. Slowly I was starting to feel like shackles were be removed from and I was going to be free. I would have my chance to fight, I would have my chance to defend my race, and no more would I have to worry about my mahmen or sire being disgraced. I was going to have my cake and eat it too.

Stepping back from Larimar, I smiled and took her hand in mine, my thumb caressing the back of her hand as I laced our fingers with mine.:: Shall we go tell our family the good news?

#TheHatchingOfAPlan #BDBRW