#hmm it appears I enjoy horror books

[mysterious-corpse]

📚

📚 favorite book

how could you do this to me /lh

I could never choose so I’m just gonna list some that come to mind

Animorphs (special mention of the Ellimist Chronicles) by KA Applegate

I talk about this one a bunch on my fandom blog @dr-reids-fidget-toy . The author was inspired by Star Trek. Kids book. Child soldiers, war horror, body horror, existential horror, age-appropriate jokes, aliens. Set in the 90s. Series of 50+ books. Many were ghostwritten. POC characters.

All of Us Villains / All of Our Demise by Amanda Foody & Christine Lynn Herman

In this world, magick is real. However, all of the high magick was depleted long ago, except for a stash of it that only 7 families know about. Each generation, a teen from each family has to fight for their life in a Hunger Games-style tournament to determine which family gets control of the high magick for the next 20 years. An anonymous author has recently published a book about this barbaric practice, and this year is the first time the outside world will know about the tournament (media coverage galore!). LGBT+ characters (Queer romance). 2 books. POC characters.

Vicious by VE Schwab (the second book is also very good but the first is my personal fave)

Two college students decide to conduct an experiment after learning of mysterious abilities developed after near-death experiences. The participants? Themselves, of course. Shit goes down. They come back wrong. Has a sequel. LGBT+ character (ace rep!!).

The Mirror Season by Anna-Marie McLemore

TW Sexual Assualt

A girl is sexually assaulted at a party, and returns home to find that her peculiar cooking abilities have vanished. Things around her start turning into mirror shards and breaking into dust. She meets a boy, and they realize they were assaulted at the same party. Buried memories threaten to surface as they become friends, and romance forms. A story about healing from trauma, with a touch of magical realism. (At least, I think it’s magical realism). Queer character. POC characters.

We Were Liars by E Lockhart

Great story with a huge twist. A rich family spends every summer on their private island. The main character is part of this family. After a terrible incident last summer, she cannot remember the event or anything her family has told her about it. She is also plagued by terrible migraines. Now, it’s summer again and her cousins are right where she expected, despite them not contacting her since the accident. POC character.

Foul is Fair by Hannah Capin

TW Sexual Assault

A girl goes to a party and is sexually assaulted by a group of boys. She plots with her 3 best friends and her parents to kill everyone involved. Short summary but trust me, read it. POC characters. LGBT+ characters.

The Gilded Wolves series by Roshani Chokshi

A group of thieves/found family are tricked into agreeing to a dangerous heist. Set in Paris, 1889. Magic is real in the form of Forging - the ability to create and imbue objects with special powers. I can’t say much without giving away the plot. POC characters. Queer characters (including a romance plot). Autistic character. 3 books.

I need to add one for Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao. Don’t let me forget

[caesarflickermans]

I’ve followed you for Years and I find it so funny how you went from shipping Hayffie to not and then it’s me that went from Not to shipping them ajaj. We switched! I grow up and I tend to love more adult ships especially very much complicated and almost doomed adult Dynamic. I should stop cause in every show/movies/books the adult ones don’t get much happiness. I should have known tho since Kane & Abby (they started it!!)

I so fondly remember Kane and Abby!! I shipped them back when I was watching the first few seasons of the 100 too :')

Adult ships have equally interested me more than teen ones even when I was a teen. There seemed to be so much drama around them that I much preferred calmer ships with characters that felt more settled rather than teens going through journeys discovering themselves. Funnily, in recent years I've felt more appreciative toward teen stories & teen ships—I enjoyed Alice Oseman's Radio Silence—and I've enjoyed thinking about modern high school verses for the Capitol rebels :> Me adding Cressida & Fulvia to the 'cast' is also moving down in age ranges, although they are both mid twenties.

And hmm! I think I've just gotten fed up with the movie version of Hayffie. While I understand the enjoyment to have Effie in 13, she seemed to be there for some light-hearted moments in an otherwise bleak movie. I wish they would have made her endure true hardships to really settle a character's journey, because to this day I don't see why Plutarch would've taken her along, why she did go unpunished in 13, or her truly GAF about the rebellion. It seems that for all the development they had her go through in CF, there was little beyond that in both MJ movies.

Overall, movie!Hayffie felt so rushed and ignorant to the journey these characters have had. Haymitch and Effie spent years at odds with each other. Whenever they were in contact, Haymitch was drunk trying to ignore the fact he was part of an entourage dragging two kids Effie picked to the Capitol who would inevitably die, and whose parents he might or might not have to face for the rest of his life. This all happened while Effie yapped about how boring, uneducated, or downright uncivilised she thought these children were. These characters are at such strong odds that I do not see them moving past that in the span of a year and a half.

We were robbed of a slowburn we were never going to get because these were side characters whose love story was never planned until fans asked for one.

Hayffie needs a truthful slowburn to properly work, and the kiss at the end of MJP2 was a final nail in the coffin for me. The flirtations were already a little too frequent, but this kiss clearly was not their first, and that indication did not at all align with my need for a slowburn Hayffie. The fact that the actors were the ones who pushed for this, and that I don't like E-Banks, makes this less a thought-out storyline and more a "well, let's smooch, this feels right!"

The issue with Hayffie is that, after the end of MJ, they aren't really forced into contact with each other anymore. I don't see why Haymitch would care enough for Effie to stay in contact, and I don't really think Effie's life centres around a guy who she appeared to be disgusted by for the whole two to three weeks per year she was forced to spend her time with (and to everyone who might say that, no, Haymitch is a looker: He had been abusing his body with alcohol for two decades and did not seem to bathe often).

That's not to say that, in such a potential slowburn, Effie cannot realise that she cannot shake off the horrors that happened to her in the book. She might end up getting in contact with Haymitch, but she also sort-of really needs a reality check about how her ignorance made her selfish, because I don't see any evidence anywhere that Effie felt any semblance of guilt for her participation or felt grief for the previous tributes.

So a rather rough phone call might make her think, re-watch, and re-evaluate her past actions. That doesn't happen overnight, but takes months and years to come to terms with.

This is the central aspect I think is amiss in the Hayffie canon story and in most ideas that I was surrounded by. Effie needs to apologise, and it needs to happen from genuine growth that I find doubtful to happen during the canon book timeline.

From then onward, maybe a friendship can develop with some calls ever so often, maybe Effie sending him a gift by the next train as a thanks for a particularly rough call. While I don't necessarily see Effie as too bound to the Capitol due to potential trauma after the book time in MJ—she might live in some of the "better" Districts—I struggle to see her move to Twelve. And I don't see Haymitch leaving his home, ever.

So whatever they might—maybe, with an abundance of what ifs attached—become is going to be reduced by distance and, frankly, age and health. I'm sorry to Mr. Abernathy, but his alcohol abuse is not guaranteeing a long life. By the time that Effie might come around, I think he won't live much longer. Even in this version they don't end up in a romance, but at least I can see some platonic affection and appreciation—once Effie actually understands and listens.

I've also seen more Hayffie content I did not enjoy than enjoy (which was... fairly little) and just. realised that discrepancy. My issues with the portrayal of these two in the fandom were that I've often seen them reduced to stereotypes, phrases, and punchlines. There's only so many times that Effie telling Haymitch "Manners!" is funny, especially if we link this back to the never-addressed undertones of colonialised-colonialser here. I've also at some point realised that this is one of the ships where the dynamics are that of damsel-helper, whereupon Effie's trauma was a frequent and serious topic while Haymitch's drinking problems were the bottom of jokes.

But maybe I've also grown old and cynical so sayonara

[msookyspooky]

Fours a Franchise

Chapter 1

wordcount: 9,188

  

"What? No, I'm not doing it Rebecca! I told you already that I changed my mind-" 

"Yn, it's your last stop for the year! Do you know how insightful and inspiring it will be for the survivor to go back to where it all happened? Think of the book sales!" 

You paced your hotel room with your phone in hand. "I'm thinking of more than book sales, Rebecca…Like my sanity, my life, my-" 

"Okay, okay." She interrupted you over the phone. "But as your publicist, your assistant, the head coach of your career AND your number one cheerleader-" You rolled your eyes as she continued. "I'm HIGHLY suggesting you do this book signing." 

You blinked at the window. A huge high rise overlooking a bustling city, a far cry from your humble dwellings you were used to. "Are you suggesting this as my assistant or ordering me as my publicist?" You could hear the edge to your own voice as you felt your mouth twist into a frown.

"Hey, now. I work for you, remember? Bbuuttt, I know what sells. I mean…Let's face it, your um…Side novels were not what people wanted, sweetie. I've been right this far and look! Enjoying a cup of tea before Good Morning America last week! We even got you on Larry King, YN! Life is good so why mess it up over a town that has been a complete bore for over a decade?" You sighed and shifted your weight as she continued. "People love a survivor! They don't want to read a campy fantasy; they want reality. Out of Darkness. YN. The survivor. The fighter. 15 years of horror she faced. 18, 20, 23 were the tender ages she faced down homicidal maniacs some of which were betrayed friends. Trauma, guilt, hatred, fear and she faced it all-"

"Tone down the sales pitch. I'm aware of what I went through, just…Why this town? I've been traveling for weeks on end! Why do I have to go back THERE?" 

"And you can take a break after this one!…Now, it doesn't look very convincing that you're 'Out of Darkness' if you're not willing to go back to the place that Darkness came from to sign some simple books, hmm? It could plummet book sales, appearances, and your followers if you tell them you refuse to go back to Woodsboro…Oh, that reminds me; I need to update your Facebook page for tomorrow." 

Silence stretched on as you stared out your hotel's huge glass window at the world around you. Rebecca Walter's continued with what you could only describe as her customer service voice. Aka her 'We're done talking about this' voice. "...Okay! Your plane leaves at 6 tomorrow morning and I'll pick you up in the rental car to get to your hometown." 

You exhaled in exasperation. "It's not really my hometown. I wasn't even there a year." 

"Right, right. Anyways, get some beauty sleep and I'll call you in the morning. By-ee!" She sang out as she hung up. 

You sighed deeply, staring out at the big city around you. It should be exciting, new, wonderful but all it did was make you feel small and out of place…

Focusing on your reflection staring back at you; You still looked the same that you did 10 years ago as far as aging went but your hair was more modernized for 2011 millennial input. Recommended by who else but Rebecca. You didn't hate it but you felt out of place sometimes. Same with the bandage style bodycon dresses or pleated skirts or peplum tops and not to mention the too high stiletto pumps or the clunky jewelry all in colors you didn't like. It wasn't you. No matter your original style, this style was just to appease the masses that you had your shit together. 

You frowned at your own reflection. It had only been a little over a year ago that you were 'highly suggested' by your publicist to write 'Out of Darkness'. The title wasn't your idea, the photo on the front made you look like a damn Céline Dion CD cover and the lies that you had everything figured out enough to help others overcome trauma made you nauseated. Rehashing your worst times in life endlessly with a forced smile to a bunch of eager listeners with hopeful eyes in your direction that everything gets better…It really didn't; not for you. You just made the best of it. It felt like you were lying to them even if it was white lies to help others feel better.

You watched people walking on the busy street, the entire city lit up as you reminisced…You sometimes wondered if Sidney or Tatum had taken your place; what would they do? You knew Tatum would adore being a minor celebrity and probably get on some reality show or do interviews willingly to fit the lifestyle even more. You could hear her saying "If I'm gonna be traumatized; I'm gonna be traumatized with Gucci." 

Sidney probably would have genuinely believed in what she was doing and would move on. She would feel a purpose to help and inspire others. You wanted to be like that, be like Sidney would be. Hell, even be like Tatum. But the fact was; you weren't Sidney or Tatum. Your mom wasn't murdered by those two. Even if Sid and Tat were your friends…You had to accept the fact that Stu was partially right all those years ago in his own fucked up way. It was horrible what happened to them and to you and you will never forgive Billy and Stu for what they had done but the resentment you had for them wasn't comparable to Sidney's hatred after she found out who had killed her mother and best friend. Her Mom being made into a massacre that poor Sidney and Neil had to find was enough to make her ready to bludgeon her boyfriend to death with a lamp had you not stopped her… Sidney WOULD feel a great sense of duty to her mom and herself to help others overcome these types of situations. You wanted to as well but something in you didn't feel it…Maybe it was guilt? Or maybe what you lacked in life because of it? Mark wasn't here and you never got to find out if it could've worked with him or anyone else for that matter, friends outside the Woodsboro Survivors were nonexistent, and you felt alone in all of this. The secret felt like the heaviest burden on your shoulders you just couldn't shake.

With a heavy sigh; You pulled the curtains on the window to stop the bright city lights from pouring in. 

You walked to the bathroom to shower. Stripping off and looking at your body in the mirror. A scar on your left shoulder and your upper arm was the first to catch your gaze. One on your right forearm and one on your right hand where Neil stabbed you a decade ago. You went to make a fist and your right hand's middle finger and the ring finger trembled to form a fist fully. Not tightly closing as you clutched it in your other hand and looked away. Stepping into the hotel's shower and closing your eyes under the water. You let the water wash over your body as you thought of the last 10 years…How the hell did you end up here?

You faced the wall and leaned your head forward and let the water run down your back. Going from a normalish girl wearing what you wanted and no one knowing you as long as you didn't say your name; to trying to keep up with the kids and the Kardashians and EVERYONE recognizing you... From an isolated cabin to tv appearances nationwide.

'God, I can't believe Stu's ass hasn't barked up my tree after seeing me on TV….' You thought. Even if the malice you should have just wasn't there. You didn't even know if Stu or Billy were even alive or not.

You eventually turned off your water the more your mind wandered to places you didn't want to dwell on. Drying off before doing your nightly routine and getting ready for bed. You checked your phone to see no texts or missed calls from Randy or Dewey and your heart sank a little. Especially since you had to text or call them more often then they did you these days. You knew life was busy. God, did you ever know how busy life could be flying across the country routinely. However, you went from nightly calls from them both, to now, you were lucky to get a call once a month and even then that was usually phone tag with you calling them or them calling you. All of you are just too busy with life now.

You sat your phone down on the nightstand and laid your head down on your pillow. 

'I guess that's a part of growing up…People drift. It's like the trauma was what held us together and the more they move on; the less we need each other.' 

You felt your throat burn a little just thinking that thought before tightly closing your eyes. 

'Or the less they need me like I do them…'

———————————–—–—––––––––––

It was almost afternoon as you sat in the rental car's passenger seat. A picture of your aging Cherri on your screen. Your childhood cat that lived with your family passed away a few years back but you still had Cherri. A trusted family member was happy to take your extremely elderly dog in while you traveled. You swore to yourself you'd spend her final year or two with her instead of traveling for this dumb book signing. This was the last stop and then you were having a little chat with Rebecca.

 "Just text. I mean, you have a Droid. It's not 2005 anymore." Rebecca muttered as she eyed you.

"I know, I love this thing. But I still like calling." You admitted. It was SO much nicer than clicking each number anywhere from 2 to 4 times to get the letter you wanted. You hardly ever texted until you got your phone with an extended keyboard…You still kept the model Mark gave you as a keepsake at home. But a flip phone just wasn't going to cut it anymore.

"That's nothing, you'd die of overload with an Iphone." 

You huffed while calling Randy. "Who wants a phone with a touch screen you have to protect? And the screen is tiny too. I say it's just a fad and they'll die out in a year or two…"

"So, who are you calling up?"

You faltered as you heard Randy's voicemail after multiple rings. "…Well that sucks."

"What? Something wrong?" 

 You frowned as you looked at your phone. "Well, I tried calling Randy but he didn't answer and I don't want to call his house phone and bother his family this early…. There's Dewey." 

You pressed speed dial for him. Just to frown when it went straight to voicemail after a few rings as well. "...Which is apparently on duty." You drew out with a breath of air past your lips in exasperation. "So now, it's Gale." 

"Who?" 

"Gale Riley." You glanced at Rebecca. "Maiden name; Weathers." 

Her face lit up. "Oohh, god yeah! She was such a boss back in the day! Kid me had, like, starry eyes seeing her on tv." 

You smiled and held up a finger as Rebecca nodded while driving. Just when you saw the interstate sign pointing West to Woodsboro. 

It rang one time before she picked up.

"Hey, Gale? Everything okay? Kind of picked up real quickly there." You mumbled.

"What? Oh yeah, just…Writing my next book! I'm so busy with it. Halfway there. And my phone was beside me so… " 

"Oh, totally get it." You smiled to yourself knowing that the computer screen was blank and she was desperate for a distraction. You continued. "I tried calling Dewey but he didn't answer." 

"Oh, yeah…Sheriff Dewey is a very busy man." She muttered. 

"Yeah. So, if he panics later just let him know I was just reminding him I'm visiting Woodsboro today." 

"Today?" 

"Book Signing. " You felt uneasy as the 'Welcome to Woodsboro' sign came into view. "I'll be doing the signing at noon and was wondering if I could visit? I haven't even seen your place yet. It's only been what? 9 years of owning it?" 

Gale released an amused huff on the other line. "Yeah, something like that. I'll text you the address." 

"Thanks. And could I get Randy too? You know he only brings the family my way. I know it a little but I need a refresher because it's just a street away from his parents but I swear to god all those houses look alike." 

"Yeah, I'll send it your way…Listen, it's fine if you're too busy. So am I, obviously, but maybe we could get coffee? I've been dying to shit talk to somebody about this one pushy tart deputy at Dewey's work that keeps buttering him up with treats. Guess what? They taste like cardboard…" She was silent a moment before saying. "...Well…Unless you're running out of here as soon as you can. Been a long time since you stepped foot in this town." 

You sighed as houses came into view. "...No, I'm staying at least till the first kill." You deadpanned, no real humor in your voice.

"Yeah right. I'll see you later. Dewey's going to be over the moon when he finds out his surrogate sister's in town." 

You didn't know if that was sarcasm or genuine. You and Gale were not best friends by a long shot. Not even good friends. Honestly, sometimes you fight like two divorced parents trying to play nice while sharing custody of the kid aka Dewey. And yet, sometimes you both were the only company you had these days.

You listened to Rebecca talking aimlessly about nothing in particular as she drove. You sat in the passenger seat and suddenly it was like you were a 17 year old girl again…

 The memory played out in your head. Your family tried engaging with you as you sat there solemnly in the backseat. Torn up at leaving your old life behind for this place. You could just reimagine the view from the back window; looking at the town you only visited for your grandparents every so often. You dreaded being at a new school at the end of your Junior year. But your grandparent had a health scare and it was closer to your parent's work so you really had no choice in the matter when your folks decided to move there. Any other issues in life pertaining to you or your parents lives just sealed the deal for them even more.

You shook your head slightly with a forlorn expression when you both passed the school…Still the same after 15 years. In your mind's eyes, you could picture Tatum laughing and walking beside Sidney out of the bustling building. You closed your eyes a moment, imagining them waving at you as you passed by before opening them again. An ache in your chest slowly formed…You truthfully hadn't thought of your old friends in a decent amount of time but coming back here just seemed to resurface old wounds. It was so easy to be back in time to 1996. Preferably the Summer before your senior year. You were young and carefree as any teen could try to be. James being a new boyfriend that wasn't abusive yet. Sidney and Billy seemed in love and Tatum was freshly dating Stu. Randy making you laugh or roll your eyes at him at the video store, chilling with Tatum and Sidney at their houses or yours. Watching movies with Stu and Billy who at the time seemed like normal guys that genuinely loved their girlfriends and were just good friends with you…

You glanced at the car's mirror. Your sad face staring back at you and suddenly reality was crashing into you that most of your memories of that group weren't as real as you wanted them to be as far as Billy and Stu were involved as well as what followed just a few short months later. From James, to the strain on your group's friendships, to the very obvious reason why the tension was happening being revealed at the party that night…Those moments of naive bliss you had prior you would never, ever get back.

Rebecca rambled while you were in your own world. "So anyways, I told him he's a complete tool. Because, come on. How can this not be a good sales pitch, am I right?...YN? Hellooo?" 

You jolted slightly as you realized she was directly talking to you and not herself. "Huh? Sorry, just…Getting lost in thought. I haven't been here in 15 years. I literally moved away not even 2 weeks after…Well…You know what happened." 

"Okay, speaking of which. I know your character in Stab was with them-" 

"Right." 

"And you were not, based on your court case I read about." 

"Yes." 

"Sooo…"

"Yes?" You asked with a raised brow.

"Okay, don't take this the wrong way but both of those guys were kind of hot for freaking seniors. I'm not a pedo or cradle robber, I'm just saying! I mean, if I had two guys that cute that were obsessed with me in high school? Murderers or not, I'd think about it…So, did you ever think they were attractive? Ever?" 

You felt the silence in the car. You wanted to be normal. To just admit that yes, they were attractive, their shitty personalities and selfish choices were what sucked but you were attracted to them. Who wasn't at the time? They were two of the most popular and arguably better looking guys in school that hung out with you. You got hateful looks your way just as much as Sidney and Tatum did. It's why the rumors about you were so easily spread. One day when you were talking to Stu in the hallway, him leaning over you with his arm on the locker as you tried to move away from him flirting because he was just recently dating Tatum but you know Casey saw it. Her locker was just down the hall. You were sure even if she broke up with him; seeing him so hyper fixated on you instead of still being hung up on her bruised her ego enough to spread the nasty rumors about you. James was threatened by them as well for the same reason…They were sought after in Woodsboro. So finding out they both were secretly in love with you had you so shocked it ALMOST rivaled the shock of them being the Woodsboro killers…Almost. You wanted so badly to just admit it and have girl talk you didn't get with anyone else.…But considering your trial in the past and the people online trying to dig up your case again; you trusted no one with that info. Especially a fame mongerer like Rebecca. 

"They were alright looking, I guess. " You lied with a nonchalant shrug and redirected it. "Nothing to excuse them from being monsters." 

Rebecca scoffed. "Well duh, they were! Please, they may have not been the nicest but that Billy looked like Johnny Depp and the other guy-" 

"Stu." You knew he'd just about shove Rebecca out of the moving car if he was here.

"- He wasn't bad looking either, I guess. Not my type but apparently he dated some of the most popular girls of Woodsboro High so he had something going for him." 

"Yeah, he was charming and popular and used it to manipulate people." 

"But you seriously didn't want them at all before the murders?  You had to have at least looked or thought about it. I mean, these two guys were obsessed-" 

"With getting their way no matter what." You interrupted her. "Besides, they were dating my best friends and I had a boyfriend at the time. I had no interest in them.

She gave you a once over from her seat. Looking like she wanted to say something before her mouth dropped. She pulled up to the bookstore and your heart sank.

 "Oh crap." Rebecca grumbled. Pulling in as you froze in your seat 

A handful of people with signs screaming at you with signs. Your picture is marked out on a few or 'guilty' written in bold red letters designed to look like blood. You even saw a few of Tatum, Sidney, Casey or Steven with their names and the word 'justice' written on them.

"Okay, just hold your head high and ignore them…You'd think the least they could do is have police here. What else do these small town feds have to do but shovel donuts in their mouths and bust some crack heads here and there?" She grumbled while undoing her belt.

You swallowed, slightly taken aback yourself that Dewey wouldn't be here to rally them away. Looking up to see rows and rows of Ghostfaces on the pole lights near the store. "I'd say damn kids with that-" You pointed, letting your finger fall as you gave a wary look to the small angry crowd. "But…The adults are acting kind of ridiculous too…Isn't this welcoming." You sarcastically mumbled, feeling your anxiety creeping in.

Rebecca shoved her door open. "Screw this, I am NOT having these frigging freeloaders hogging the media attention I-…We worked for!" She slammed her door shut as you gave a shaky sigh. 

Rebecca made a wide gesture to the angry crowd trying to boycott your book and you. Still convinced in the conspiracy theory that you actively helped Billy and Stu and you just got away with murder and were now profiting off of it. 

You were scared of crowds like this just as much as Ghostface. Especially after you almost died from a crazed conspiracy nut seeking 'justice' more than a decade ago. Despite that, you sucked in a breath and got out of the car.

Rebecca grabbed you and led you by the shoulder as you just prayed no one had a gun. 

You heard "Murderer", "We don't want you here", "Leave Woodsboro" as you walked by the 8 to 10 people protesting. Rebecca said a nasty remark back as you said nothing. Numb to it at this point as your assistant slammed the door shut.

"I'm gonna rip the owner a new ass for not handling that. Wasn't me threatening his cat over your set up not enough?!" She marched away as you saw the people still holding up signs, chanting at your picture on the store window. Rebecca slammed a door to a backroom looking for the owner.

You ran a hand over your face, already eager to get the hell out of this town. It wasn't like you didn't have naysayers in other towns but this one felt different…It felt worse.

 An orange cat eyed you curiously from the desk across the room. Leisurely lounging and looking rather plump and content with itself but watching your every move. You walked over to pet it but it jumped off the desk and ran behind a bookshelf.

'You too, huh?' You thought before you went over and sank into a seat at the table you'd have your books signed at.  Staring down at yourself on the cover. You wanted to go home already. YOUR home. Away from people and bullshit like this. Be with your very small inner circle, your aging dog, your small comforts. Anything but this.

Your thoughts were interrupted as a man cleared his throat and you flinched in response. Fearful a protestor got in and could be holding a gun to your head for all you know.

"YN, I'm such a big fan...So hey, can I get some special friends discount or something? By that, I mean, free?" 

You faltered, slowly looking up to see a man's belt and white button down shirt…Your eyes roamed higher to see a green sweater over top of it near your white table in front of you. Your eyes traveled more as a relieved smile slowly stretched over your face. 

"Ray." 

He grinned down at you. A light stubble on his filled out face. A few pounds gained since you were in your early 20's but still some muscle there too. You were sure he still worked out even after physical therapy just not as much with his busy schedule. His hair was in the same volumized, fluffy swept back style he had in Hollywood, just shorter or thinner with age.

He grinned as you stood up. Not having seen him face to face for almost a year as awful as it sounded. 

Randy remarked. "I never thought I'd see you back in this shithole. I mean, you're star status now." 

You gave a chuckle and walked over to hug him. He hugged you back, holding onto you for a few moments before you gently pulled away a bit. "Yeah, whether I like it or not." You replied unable to help looking at the crowd and he put a hand on your shoulder to look back at him instead.

"Hey, screw them. You've came a long way and they don't know what the fuck their even yelling about…" His eyes trailed down with raised brows as he fully pulled away. "And then there's…You." He huffed with a bemused smirk.  "Wow, you in heels is an eerie sight from your usual woman of the woods get up." 

"Oh, shut up." 

"No, seriously. Did you raid Gale Weathers closet?" 

"Ugh, do not compare me to Gale. " You grumbled with a huff.

"Or what? You can't give me pain anymore, Mistress. My wife will have a say in that." He showed his wedding band for emphasis.

You rolled your eyes playfully. "I think if you annoy her as much as you annoyed me in the past; she'll make the exception."

"Not if you're dressed like your going to Fashion Week, she won't. She wouldn't even recognize you if she walked by the window." 

You shoved away from him lightly. "Oh God, stop. Seriously, it's just heels…Your just mad it makes me taller-" 

You went to measure your height with a devious grin, doing the same thing you did at college before that party until he smacked your hand away with a small puff of air escaping past his lips.

He took you in again, his smile fading before shaking his head slightly with a smile. "Seriously though, you look good! Really! It's just so…So-" 

"Different?" You asked with a raise of your brow before your face fell ever so slightly. "Yeah. It's not exactly what I wear on the regular…But…I'm a product and the packaging is what sells. " You gave with a bitter smirk.

His mouth parted as he stared at you. The teasing gone from his face as looked at you. "...Is…Is everything okay? Are you happy with all of this?" He gestured to the table with all the copies of your books. 

You almost told him the truth but quickly forced a smile and shook your head. "No, I'm okay. I'm just…I'm grateful. I mean, I'm privileged with the opportunities given to me from very less than ideal circumstances. I guess…Just wish I could wear a comfortable dress boot with the leaves turning soon." You lost your smile to ask him the same question. "And you? Are you happy with everything?...It's been awhile since we talked. Like, really 'talked' talked face to face." 

He faltered as well before giving a 'pssh' noise between his lips and an outrageous smile. "Of course! I have a beautiful wife that is way out of my league but still stuck it out with me. Two wonderful kids that are everything to me. A house right here in my hometown, I can walk and move like I was never in a coma from being stabbed over a dozen times, I'm freaking alive for god sakes!…No…Life threatening Incidents in a decade. Life is good!" 

You didn't believe that as he folded his arms and closed himself off as he spoke to you. Your brows rose slightly as you softly asked. "Well…And the video store? Everything okay?"

"Yeah! Y-Yeah so great that I now have two businesses in town." 

"Really? Which one?" 

He gave a big gesture to the bookstore with a tight smile.

You gawked at him.  "...This? YOU'RE the bookstore owner Rebecca talked to earlier?!" 

"Yep. She is a very unpleasant woman, by the way." 

Your face scrunched as it dawned on you. "Wait, why didn't you tell me you owned the store I was scheduled at? Why didn't you tell me about the bookstore in general??" 

He sighed heavily. "I was going to but I've been so busy lately. Seriously, I hope my kids remember I'm their Dad at this point." He faltered before his shoulders sagged. "And…I guess I just didn't exactly want to brag I own not one but TWO pieces of shit businesses now. Thank God for Karla's job at the bank." 

"What? Ray, is everything okay financially? Are you and Karla okay?...I know life got away from us but you know you can still tell me anything…Right?" 

Randy stared with a harsh swallow and frown. A protester got extra loud outside enough to break the silence as Randy rolled his eyes, walked to the store's window, and  jerked down a curtain to hide you both from view. He continued as he walked back towards you, arms falling at his sides. "We're okay but it's not…What I want for my family…I know you called and I missed it and I apologize for that. I almost called you back but I just decided I wanted to surprise you instead. I mean, you certainly surprised me with your Assistant putting your face on my store window!…Those assholes out there were not a part of the surprise, obviously. They just arrived 10 minutes ago... I'm sorry, I tried to threaten them with the police but they're not leaving until police arrive and APPARENTLY Woodsboro's finest have more important matters to attend to because dispatch will send an officer when they're 'available'." He rolled his eyes. "Thank fucking god no ones dying her or anything." 

You sighed. "I'm sure Dewey has a good reason for the lack of officers available. He's worried about my safety too." 

Randy nodded. "Yeah, I know…It's just we barely talk as is and then your welcome wagon is that? He couldn't have made sure to be here or send a deputy no matter what?" 

 "Don't worry about it. I've had worse…But back to you. If you're struggling then why do you own this too? What about the video store?" 

"It's…Tanking." He sighed out with a frown as he looked to the ground in shame. "I just came to look over this place instead of my employee Jenny because you were in town…AND she didn't show up to work today or call in. It's weird for her though; she's usually a pretty good employee…. But trust me, any other time, I'd love to be surrounded by films…People just don't rent movies anymore; not like they used to. When I bought the store from my older than dirt boss years back it was like a dream come true. 'Yes! I have something to rely on instead of some pencil pusher job for a boss somewhere!'." He mimicked excitement before dropping the act and slumping his posture. "… But I'm starting to think being my own boss isn't worth the hassle." 

"Was it really doing that bad?" You asked with a grimace. You looked around and saw Rebecca outside through a back window, stalking the yard. Still looking for Randy. Having gone out a back door, apparently.

Randy continued with a frown. "Yeah. The video store really did feel like something and…It's just fading to nothing. I mean, even Blockbusters are shutting down so how does the little man stand a chance? People are relying on that Netflix thing more and more every year. And this place feels like I invested in a steaming pile of crap too. I'm only supplying mostly romances to middle aged suburban housewives wanting to spice up their marriage. Seriously, none of these kids pick up Stephan King anymore. It's fucking sad." 

"Be honest. Did you read when you were a teen?" 

"ACTUALLY, I did." He gave with his arms folded and a smug look.

"Oh yeah? Comics don't count." 

"I'm telling you, I read! I was wise beyond my years." 

You released a huff of laughter at that. "AND reading for school projects doesn't count…Or Stephen King and Clive Barker's 3 books circulating in the library." 

He opened his mouth then closed it. "Ookkay, maybe I wasn't the biggest bookworm compared to my love for cinema but I did read. These kids today don't read books at all! I swear to god, if it's not on their phones or tablet; they don't look at it." 

You shrugged. "I think they read blogs and …Fanfiction online?" You drew out. Unsure if that was even the right term.  

Randy raised a brow  "What the hell is that?" 

You gave an exaggerated shrug.  "I don't know, I just know it wasn't popular when I was their age. I heard Rebecca talking about it with a friend. Something about someone made an erotic fanfiction of Twilight and Rebecca was trying to get a hold of the writer to get her to make a bdsm book about it next year?? I have no idea what the two have in common but I kind of want to look it up later out of morbid curiosity." 

"Weird. What? Is Bella gonna finally punish Edward for being a stalker? Or is a threesome finally gonna happen-" 

You cut him off, silently kicking yourself for bringing it up. "Randy, please. No Twilight rants. I KNOW you hate it." 

"It SUCKS, Yn. It's just some Mormon women's secret wet dream disguised as her inserting herself as Bella, I mean, what the fuck does a 100 something year old man want to do with a teenager anyways? What the hell could he have in common with a kid that doesn't even know what Zima is? And why is he so emotionally constipated with the personality of a rock? Isn't he trying to blend in with his alabaster marble like skin and bright fucking golden eyes? Furthermore, why is he at highschool? People graduate early, who the ever loving hell wants to be in high school forever? Worst years of my life aside from Middle school. And don't even get me started on the fucking sparkles and no drinking human blood!" He ranted a mile a minute.

You groaned softly to yourself and hung your head. "Oh god..." 

"Salem's Lot was a classic, Fright Night a masterpiece of 80s vampirism, The Lost Boys is still enjoyable to this day, John Carpenter's Vampires was kick ass, Near Dark which no one mentions despite it being one of the first western vampire films and having 3 great actors from Aliens! Alien was tremendously better, sequels suck, but that's besides the point!…And most of all, Dracula.. Don't even have to elaborate on that one. Okay, they were all vampire movies. Cold, undead, fanged up assholes that loved being a vampire. They LOVED drinking blood! What the fuck is the point-" 

"RANDY." You snapped before giving him a look. "I know, okay, I know!…Besides, why do you know so much about it if you hate it?" 

He wore a scowl on his face and looked away. "Because Karla's made me take her to see all 3 movies so far and guess what we're seeing this November?" 

You raised your brows with an amused smirk. "...Twilight Breaking Dawn?-" 

"Fucking Twilight Breaking Dawn" He answered before you could even get it out. 

You rolled your eyes playfully. "After all the cheap horror movies you probably have had her watch; it's the least you could do." 

"Yeah, yeah." He sighed out.

"THERE YOU ARE!" You both flinched at Rebecca's voice. "What half brained, idotic, little man are you that you can't do one simple thing; KEEP. THE POSITIVE SHINE. ON. YN. Do I gotta skin that cat or what?-" 

Randy held up his hands. "It's not even my cat, Lady! He just waltzed in one day and never left." 

You raised a brow. "So it IS your cat then?" 

Rebecca went to yell again and you held up a hand. "Rebecca! This is Randy!...Randy Meeks. The other Woodsboro survivor and my friend! Turns out, he's the owner." 

Randy gave her a sarcastic smile and wave as she faltered.

"...Oh." She straightened herself up. "Well then, you can still do something about that outside. Where are the cops?" She pointed to the protesters.

"I already called the cops and they're busy. What more do you want?" 

"BUSY?" She snapped before adjusting herself with a glare while marching out. "Want something done right…" She slammed the door as you both grimaced. 

Randy gave you a sideways glance. "I'd lecture her for slamming my door but I'm kind of afraid to." He looked at you. "Uh…Should we go help her? I mean, I'm the man here and she's just a tiny thing-" 

You chuckled sarcastically as he gave an offended look your way. "What? Okay, What YN?" 

"Sorry but you don't know Rebecca. She's like a fake splenda version of Gale; she'll be fine." You gestured to the door. "But I mean, go out there if you want. Since you're the man here and all."

He looked out the door of his shop and grimaced slightly. "Uhh…Nah. No, you need someone to protect you here more than Gale Jr. out there." 

You tilted your head with a smirk. "Oh, that's good. I feel so much safer with someone to protect me. My hand that was stabbed from fighting a man twice your size gives me trouble making a proper fist. And I get dizzy sometimes after another man punched me in the mouth and smashed my head into a bar. So, I'm so glad THE MAN is here to save me." 

Randy gave you a deadpan expression. "Bitch please, I was stabbed 14 times."

"And yet…What's your kill count? And who saved your ass multiple times? And remind me how many times you were the main target?" 

He rolled his eyes with a sigh. "I fucking held my own, smartass." 

" I know, just screwing with you for old time sake. Don't be mad, I know if a protester came in you'd be the first one to hit them." You chuckled and shook your head as you saw a bin of books on a nearby table. You picked one up and showed him. "We got at least 20 minutes till the book signing…What are these?" 

He huffed with folded arms but walked over to join you. "Those? Oh, books that aren't doing so hot. There from some lesser known authors that apparently aren't exactly best sellers." 

"Yet. It just takes one." You gave and Randy nodded. You picked a few. "Juliette Morris…J.R. Whitney…Summer Raine. Never heard of them." You picked one up and eyed the dark cover. "Robert Gray." You mumbled.

Randy gently took it from you to examine it. "Yeah, I was eyeing that one. Seems like a psychological thriller. Not my type of horror." 

You rolled your eyes. "I know, no blood or boobs, huh?" 

He put the book down. "I take offense to that. I'll have you know, I enjoy plot." 

"Uh huh. The plot of a big set of lungs running from some guy in a mask?" 

"Uh those are Classics; show some respect! "

"I don't have to respect shit when I lived through it." 

"Fair enough. But besides that, you know I actually do like plot to my movies. I'm not Stu-" He faltered. Both of you paused as he said it. You turned around and he shook his head with a bewildered expression. "Jesus, where'd that come from?" 

You stared a moment too, a bit of fear ran through you at the Randy even saying his name before you sighed with a shrug and a tight smile. "Well um…Bound to happen eventually, I guess. Me being back here, talking about horror movies with you like we were in high school again…It feels like we're at the video store and Stu's gonna come by any minute knocking over the vhs tapes just to irritate you while sticking his tongue out at me." 

He gave a look of disgust, a bit of uneasiness in his expression. "Can we please not talk about that reject? Slip of the tongue and it won't happen again." 

You parted your lips to say something but it died in your throat as you curtly nodded in response, looking back down at the book bin before he took it for you. 

"Anyways, I better let you get set up. People should start pouring in within the next 20 minutes. Let me just put these in the horror section. Yell if you need me." He gave a quick smile to you before walking away. 

You sighed and nodded to yourself. "Can do." 

—————————————————

The protestors died out. Well, some stayed but a few left after Gale saw some woman threaten to release personal info after she found out one's identity through a private facebook account that still had their pfp as their face and full name. Then, she threatened to post  them on twitter. A few promptly left but just as many stayed. Holding up the signs that Gale stared at; trying to chant over what you had to say.

Gale eased back from the small crowd gathered inside; eyeing you talking to everyone. A protester tried going in with a sign but she stopped him. "Lloyd, don't you have anything better to do? What would your kids think?" 

He glared at Gale, sign still raised with your picture marked out in red. "They'd be proud knowing I'm defending their cousin Steve's death from the likes of her." He pointed, raising his voice as you kept talking and tried to ignore it.

"Stu and Billy did that and you know it. She was proven innocent." Gale mumbled. "I have the lawsuit and half a million dollars lose to prove it." She mumbled the last part.

"And you proved yourself a coward too. Judge could have been paid off for all we know. You started this, you brought it to everyone's attention, you showed the facts… Just to be a quitter. Out of my way-" 

Gale jutted a hand out as he went to march past her. "I wouldn't do that, Lloyd. This is private property owned by my dear friend Mr. Meeks. You step one more inch of your fat foot in here and my husband the goddamn Sheriff will charge you. You want to yell out there like an idiot that's your American right but don't bring it in here." Gale hissed out. "Now get your fat drunken ass out of here or maybe that lawn that was wrecked coincidently after that bar fight you had with the homeowner will be coincidently reopened?…Everyone has cameras now. I'm sure if I used my old reporting skills; I could find out just who did that…Got it?" 

The man huffed, looking at her in disgust. "One day, your mouth is going to get you in trouble." He pointed at her in a warning as he walked backwards.

"It already has." She muttered back. Focusing back on you as you seemed to handle the protestors with more restraint than she ever gave you credit for. Unbeknownst to you that she was even here let alone defending you from people like Lloyd.

She just…Stared a moment. Taking you in. It was crazy to her. 

 'How did you go from a kid that was shaking over your own shadow to a professional woman selling these schmucks books like they were lined with Jesus's freaking toilet paper?' She thought.

She huffed softly at the thought, tilting her head to watch you. She swallowed as she saw you engaging with everyone in the middle of Randy's newfound shop she knew wouldn't make it, but then again, she didn't think you would either.

She couldn't help feeling…Cast out. A frown on her face. Once youthful skin now bore thin lines near her mouth and eyes. Seeing you up there in your prime, a professional dress and high heels on that looked like something she might have worn, a crowd eager to hear from you and your book…Meanwhile, she couldn't seem to even write her own. No one stopped her on the street anymore, no autographs or photo ops…She closed her eyes a second as she listened to you…You were all grown up now…She was aging too. A part of her could easily see a younger version of herself in you as you gave your speech…She hated it.

She still had her doubts about Tim and James not being Billy and Stu but after a decade of peace; she'd be an obsessed fool to harp on it now. Dewey was Sheriff of Woodsboro like he always wanted, Randy had a happy family and owned a few businesses in town, you were a national treasure…It seemed like everyone was doing something but her. She was so lonely she even was looking forward to coffee with you; coming clear down here just to see you. That's just how pathetic it felt that she was having coffee with the girl that technically ruined her career and yet she had no one else…

You finished talking, Rebecca talking for you to have people buy book copies of the New York Times Best Seller while they lasted.

You walked away before your smile fell, eyes landing on Gale. Gale stepped away from the entrance and gave a curt smile as you forced one on yourself. 

"Gale…I'm glad you came." You said. Not very warm but not outright hateful either. Both of you hadn't seen each other in a long while. You never were very close…A punch in the face at Windsor followed by a lawsuit that made headlines didn't exactly scream 'besties'.

Gale slinked over, taking her time to take you in before forcing out. "Congratulations, YN." Her cool eyes gazed at the table. "I haven't had a chance to read it yet but…" She trailed off. It was a lie. She had read it but something in her didn't want to admit it.

"Oh, well, you can have a copy or I can send you one if we sell out." You replied as Gale gave you a humorless smile at the comment. So similar to what she had told Sidney Prescott 15 years ago outside the police station. 

You gave an awkward shuffle, raising your arms then lowering and raising before stepping forward. Gale was never one for hugs and she knew you didn't exactly want to hug her either. It was all a big, curt, polite show in Gale's eyes that she played along with. For Dewey, for Randy…Even for you. She wanted to hate you but you made it hard proving her wrong over and over. She surmised eating crow over and over makes you more…Tolerant of the person feeding it to you.

You both pulled away with forced smiles as quickly as you hugged. Gale saw Randy standing in the background watching. Observing your exchange as Gale forced a smile his way over your shoulder. He gave a nod with a small polite smile as well.

You completely stepped away with a genuine happy expression as you exclaimed. "Dewey!" You quickly rushed over to hug him tightly. Dewey pulled away sooner than he normally would. Gale frowned at her husband. After all, he hadn't seen you in so long so why not savor the moment? 

"Hey YN. Gale you made it. Good." He breathlessly gave. 

He seemed frazzled as Gale eyed her husband.

You spoke up. "Dewey, I tried to call you." 

"And I tried to call too, SHERIFF!" Randy chimed in, standing next to you. "Those protestors are probably running for the hills now with your cop car about..." He checked his watch. "...45 minutes later." 

Dewey gave a remorseful grimace. "Oh, God. Are you okay?" You nodded before he continued. "Do you recognize any of them?" 

Randy and Gale exchanged glances as Randy nodded and Gale replied. "Yeah, a few. Lloyd Oarth was one of them." 

"Good, good...I'm sorry. Something really important came up…I gotta do something here." He took off his hat and anxiously ran a hand over his hair.

Gale raised a brow. "Dewey, what's wrong?" 

"Just- YN, I need to do this here…I am really sorry." He moved you out of the way and addressed the room right as Judy came barreling in. Police cars speeding down the block to get to the bookstore. A few protestors on the sidewalk scattered but police instantly got out of their cars and forced them to stay. Gale could hear that much and see it from the window.

Meanwhile, Dewey addressed the room. "Excuse me. This will only take a minute! I need you all to stay where you are and remain silent." 

A woman went to leave and Judy pushed her back inside. "Nobody leaves. You heard the Sheriff. Thank you." Even her voice had Gale side eyeing her.

Gale watched some mouthy woman with brown hair and a blue shirt tell her husband. "Can't this wait, Barney Fife? I'm running an event here!" She guessed the event runner was your assistant.

Gale felt a tinge of guilt having said the same thing about him in her book years and years ago. It was pushed aside as she listened to Dewey and more cops came in. Randy put a hand on you as he pulled you towards him. 

"Ma'am, this is a police event now." Dewey replied back.

Gale came to Dewey, blinking repeatedly and whispering to him. "WHAT is going on??" 

All before Judy stepped in between them to tell Gale. "Gale, this is police business. If you could just let us handle it." 

Gale instantly felt that familiar rage filling her at this woman having the audacity to use her little badge as leverage to disrespect her in front of her husband. 

Gale's eyes zeroed in on Judy. "I am talking to my husband, Deputy Judy." Gale used deputy like an insult as you watched.

———————————————————

You felt Randy pull you closer and out of the way of police rushing into the building as you watched Gale getting heated with some blonde deputy near Dewey. You weren't positive but you were pretty sure this was the infamous Judy she talked so fondly about.

Your eyes scanned the area, glancing at Randy as he wore a nervous expression. You were sure you had the same look on your face.

Gale spat at the deputy overstepping. "I am talking to my husband, Deputy Judy." 

Dewey turned to Gale, you and Randy. "Listen. There's a phone we believe may have been taken from the scene of a crime. Deputy Hicks has traced its coordinates back to this location." He hissed out low to not alert anyone but your group.

Randy blinked at Dewey, eyebrows scrunching. "W-What crime?..." Dewey didn't answer and Randy asked again more forcefully this time. "What type of crime, Dewey?" 

Dewey shook his head and walked a few paces. "It's…Need to know for now." 

Gale shoved her hands out in outrage. "And I'm not need to know?!" 

"SHH!" Judy ordered with a finger to her lips and you thought Gale looked ready to smack her right then and there. You watched on with Randy as Dewey held up a cellphone…All before a ringing sounded out.

Everyone in the room looked around before an officer outside shouted for Sheriff Dewey. Dewey and Judy ran out followed by Gale. You and Randy followed close behind with a small crowd behind you out on the street. A few protesters were held up by officers as well. 

You looked confused as the officers circled your rental car. Judy got out her gun and pointed to the trunk as Dewey came towards it.

You stared with wide eyes as you came forward to get their attention.

Dewey held up a hand. "Not now, YN." 

You gave him a dumbfounded look. "Dewey, it's my rental car." You felt eyes on you as you said that. Rebecca gave Dewey a sassy look before tossing the keys to him to open the trunk up.

He did just that, forcing it open as a collection of gasps escaped everyone. Rebecca stared with her mouth parted, Randy's jaw clenched as he held a tighter grip onto your shoulder, Gale gasped and stood closer to you as well, gripping onto your other shoulder…And you…You just stared with wide eyes as a bloody mess was revealed. Posters of your face littered the trunk of the car drenched in blood smears over your image. A knife, gloves and the ringing phone lay on top. Staring back at you in a taunting manner.

Dewey quickly recovered, almost angered at what he found. "Damn it! This is an official crime scene now. Let's lock it down." 

You stood near the trunk staring in absolute shock as someone pushed you away and you just allowed it. Spacing out as your heartbeat was thumping in your ears and your stomach sank. 

You numbly stared at Dewey and asked. "...Tell me this is a prank, Dewey." 

Dewey rolled his lips, looking remorseful before shaking his head and walking closer. "I'm afraid not, YN." He shook his head and placed an arm on your shoulder to lead you. "Come on." As he led you to a police car. 

Gale stayed back and so did Randy as Rebecca got on the phone and called someone. You looked back at Randy one last time before stepping into the cop car. He had a worried expression with a tight frown. Not even looking at you; only the evidence in the trunk…You had to wonder…Whoever did this; how did they unlock it without the keys?…Who's blood was that?

You saw the protestors that stayed behind glare at you in the police car. That trunk makes you look like what they always thought; a killer.

[stainlesssteellocust]

Ok. Where should I start with the 40K novels?

I tried one like 15 years ago and it was bad, no memory of which. Generic space marine stuff. I like the setting and many games, though much of the fandom can be exhausting.

I trust your tastes!

Hmm. There are unfortunately rather more bad or mediocre ones than good, but let’s see. Hopefully your trust will not be misplaced!

Possibly my favourite is The Infinite and the Divine, by Robert Rath. It’s a tale of two Necrons, mad historian and archaeologist Trazyn the Infinite and his rival, oracle and time-wizard Orikan the Diviner, as they squabble over an artifact that could change the destiny of their people. A tale of petty scheming and Tom & Jerry nonsense that stretches for thousands of years. I’m currently reading Rath’s Siege of Cadia, and while it isn’t quite as good, more grand battles and the like, it’s still a good read so far.

Also about the Necrons is Severed by Nate Crowley, a lovely little novella about a Necron general who thinks he’s still flesh and blood, and his long-suffering assistant. The same author also has a few books out, called The Twice Dead King, and I’ve tried the first one. Found it slow going and got distracted, but maybe I wasn’t in the mood at the time. I’ve heard good things about it from others.

There’s the Cain series, which is considered a classic. It’s framed as the private memoirs of celebrated Imperial hero Ciaphas Cain, with asides from an Inquisitor he had a close relationship with. The joke is that, to hear Cain tell it, his reputation is a lie: He’s an utter coward who somehow manages to come out smelling of roses every time, is rewarded by being sent into ever nastier wars and situations, and ends up having to act like his false heroic persona in order to lever his reputation to survive.

It’s a slightly more comedic take on the setting than most, with an undercurrent of unreliable narration: It’s suggested that while Cain isn’t the square-jawed hero propaganda says he is, he’s a lot more heroic than he gives himself credit for, and the extend to which he’s really a coward as opposed to a brave man riddled with self loathing and imposter syndrome is left up in the air. Been a while but the ones I read tended to be fun, if slightly formulaic after a while.

I remember enjoying the old Sisters of Battle books by James Swallow, but I haven’t read them in many years so I’m not sure if they hold up. Same with the Eisenhorn series; both are due a reread and I’ll get back to you on whether they’re worth it.

Blades of Damocles is bolter porn but it’s relatively fun bolter porn, and watching the culture clash of the Imperium and the Tau is nice.

I originally got into 40k novels via William King’s stuff; his Ragnar stories are the usual Space Marine fare (star Viking flavour) but he’s more skilled with it than most. He also wrote the most iconic books for Warhammer Fantasy: The original run of Gotrek and Felix, about a dwarf who wishes to atone for an unnamed sin via dying in battle and the human poet who drunkenly agreed to write his death saga, and to his horror now finds himself dragged to the ends of the earth as Gotrek seeks a worthy death. According to fannish lore, their books were the most profitable part of the WHF IP when Games Workshop nuked that setting (a decision they appear to be rolling back).

And speaking of Fantasy, I personally liked the story Drachenfels, which begins in media res as a party of adventurers battles a dark lord…then cuts to years later as their leader, now a powerful politician, reunites his old party members. By putting on a play of their victory over the dark lord. In the dark lord’s castle. On the eve of his defeat. Which of course cannot possibly go wrong. No siree.

I’ll also throw in a couple of fanfics if you’re into that: Breaker of Chains and its two sequels (third instalment not finished) feature the Primarch Angron, in canon a servant of the Chaos god Khorne and leader of the berserk World Eater space marines. In canon Angron landed on the planet Nuceria as a child and led a slave rebellion against its masters only for the Emperor to snatch him away at the last moment to serve him, resulting in his comrades dying and Angron’s mind breaking, leading him to Chaos. In this story his Legion finds him first, his rebellion wins and he enters the wider galaxy relatively more well adjusted.

Relatively.

Whereas Suffer Not is the tale of an Inquisitor doing her best to actually make the galaxy a better place. Shockingly. Completed, has a sequel, got some negative fan attention because of its take on the setting but I rather liked it.

(Both of the above make the unusual choice of using second person, because they were interactive works: Readers would vote on the character’s next action, and the author would weave the result into the next update.)

I’m sure there’s a lot more stuff I’m missing, but that should be a good start.

[bluerose5]

Their Perfect Oasis

Prompt fill from discord for Maxwell Trevelyan/Dorian Pavus. Turned out longer than I expected (because of course it did) but hope y'all enjoy! Click the title to read on ao3. 💙

Summary:

All Dorian wanted, at first, was his book back.

The last thing he expected was for Maxwell Trevelyan to spoil him with an afternoon together.

~~~

Maxwell Trevelyan had always been quick on his feet.

There Dorian was one afternoon, minding his own business while he combed through tome after tome in the Inquisition’s library. Their meager collection had few works that he deemed to be of any noteworthy academic merit, let alone worthy of his time to read, but some proved interesting enough to add to his ever-growing pile of books.

What they found during their travels typically turned out to be far more interesting, ancient ruins filled to the brim with anecdotal accounts and mysterious artifacts. While he left most of the elven stuff for Solas to study, there was still so much to review in between his own research.

He was going through all that he had gathered on the connections between rift magic and time magic when his beloved Inquisitor made his appearance.

“There you are,” Maxwell greeted.

Although he tried to put on an air of indifference, Dorian ended up smiling in spite of himself.

“Where I always am around this time of day,” he said, not once looking away from the scroll he had spread out over his pitiful excuse of desk, but beggars couldn’t be choosers.

Not that he was all that focused anyways, it being near impossible to pay attention with Maxwell around.

After he pressed a kiss to Dorian’s cheek, Dorian quickly turned to scour through his and Alexius’s old notes, more so to hide his now-flustered expression.

Warmth spread throughout his cheeks at Maxwell’s low chuckle.

“Looking as stunning as always,” Maxwell breathed, his words overflowing with a reverence that made Dorian’s heart skip a beat. 

“Was that ever in question?” Dorian countered.

Maxwell pressed himself flush against his side, a hand braced upon the table as he leaned in to brush his lips along the shell of Dorian's ear.

"Never," he replied. Dorian’s fingers froze when he started to shuffle through the pages, but he could hear the smirk in Max's voice, clear as day. "Am I distracting you?"

Dorian shook his head, more so to clear his mind than to answer the question.

"I—No, of course not! I was just—"

"Then, let me try a little harder."

Without warning, Maxwell disappeared from his side.

One second, he was snuggled up to Dorian. Then, the next, he was leaning against the wall near the staircase, a book in hand that he pretended to flip through. He studied Dorian, eyes alight with mischief, but the latter watched him skeptically, arms crossed over his chest.

"What are you doi—" Dorian started to ask, but it was in that exact moment that he processed what book Maxwell held.

It was almost comical, how his head snapped towards the desk, then back towards Maxwell, then to the desk again.

Maxwell pinched one of the book's corners, allowing it to dangle precariously.

Oh, the horror. To have a work so highly disrespected.

Dorrian huffed.

"What?" Maxwell teased, attempting to sound innocent but ultimately failing, way too pleased with himself for his own good. "Need something?"

"Well, now that you mention it," Dorian sighed, "it has come to my attention that I am indeed missing a book."

"You don't say."

"Mm-hmm…" Dorian took a step forward, but Maxwell mirrored him easily enough, one foot positioned on the next step. "A book vital to my research, in fact. One that I would very much like back."

"Ah, and what would you be willing to do for this book, I wonder."

"Name your price."

The next step down was more purposeful, the way Maxwell shifted his weight. 

Understanding dawned on Dorian then.

"Maxwell," he warned, pointing a finger in his direction, "I am not chasing after you."

Maxwell simply beamed at him in response. He tucked the book underneath his arm, pressed tightly against his side.

"I'll make it worth your while," he promised.

"I'll make it worth yours if you just— Well, and there he goes," Dorian grumbled.

The madman didn't even hesitate to dart off down the stairs.

"Max!" Dorian called out, forgetting where he was for a second. 

Teasing laughter rang out in a slight echo that traveled throughout the tower. A few unimpressed glances were tossed their way, but Dorian ignored them.

Tapping his foot upon the floor, he shook his head in disbelief.

"I am not going to chase him," he told himself. "I am not…"

Down below, he could hear Maxwell say, "Hi, Solas! Bye, Solas!" as he escaped into the throne room. Not that Solas had much time to mumble out an amused greeting of his own, the Inquisitor there and gone in the blink of an eye.

Time was wasting, but Dorian’s curiosity eventually got the better of him.

He paused his mantra, bottom lip poked out into an exaggerated pout.

"Vishante kaffas," he swore, approaching the staircase. "Okay, and now I'm chasing after you."

The things he did for that man.

He followed after him at a brisk walk, not a run!

He had to retain some semblance of dignity after all.

It was bad enough that he had to put up with Solas's knowing stare as he passed through the rotunda, so it seemed that Dorian would suffer even the greatest torments for Maxwell’s sake.

Whatever he had planned better be worth all the effort.

When Varric heard his entrance into the main hall, he didn't even so much as look up from his writings. Instead, he simply jabbed his thumb in the direction of the doors, Dorian smiling sheepishly before continuing on his way.

Once outside, Dorian caught a split-second glimpse of Max on his way towards the stables, but Dorian saw the bait for what it was. He knew all too well that, if Maxwell truly wanted to elude him, then he would have done so by now. Either that, or he would have melted away into the shadows, only to be seen when it was his moment to strike.

Dorian had to admit, part of him actually enjoyed this little game of theirs. He knew it to be playful, all intended in good faith, and he absolutely adored how Max loved to tease him.

It would make "catching him" all the more rewarding.

However, as things turned out, he didn't even have to catch him, not when Maxwell came to him instead.

Rushing down the remaining stairs and through the courtyards, Dorian stopped short when he heard the clomping of a horse’s hooves draw closer.

With a tug on the horses’ reins, Maxwell guided two of the Inquisition’s best mounts to a stop in front of him. Both of them were of sturdy, dependable builds with slick, glossy coats, one brown and the other black.

When they shifted to a halt, Maxwell fed them some apple slices from their packs, then turned to beam at Dorian.

“After you, my dear,” Max said, his hand outstretched to him.

“What?” Dorian asked, eyebrow raised in question. “Are we going for a ride?”

“How observant of you to notice,” Maxwell teased, “but, yes, we are. I have a surprise for you.”

“A gift?” Dorian pressed. “My, my, I do love being spoiled, especially by you.”

“Then, you’ll love this,” he said. His expression gentled, causing a swarm of butterflies to flutter around within Dorian’s chest. “I promise.”

Swallowing past the sudden lump in his throat, Dorian coughed quietly under his breath to clear it.

“Right,” he said. He nodded at the closest horse, the one that stood as black as night. “I’ll take this one.”

“A fine horse for a pretty man,” Max praised.

“The prettiest,” Dorian corrected.

Placing his hand into Maxwell’s, he hoisted himself up into the horse’s saddle. Not that he needed the assistance, but he could hardly turn down such an offer from Max. He adjusted his weight around to get comfortable while Maxwell mounted the other horse with ease.

Dorian froze into place when he glanced over, only to become tongue-tied at the very sight of him.

Back in the library, the lighting had been muted enough —and everything had happened so quickly— that Dorian didn’t really get a good look at him before.

Now, it was as if he was seeing him clearly for the first time.

Sunlight washed over him in a wave of gold, each feature emphasized with the attention reserved for the most revered religious icons. Dorian wouldn’t be surprised if they were already carving statues in his honor, devoted to reproducing every last detail to perfection.

Perched upon his horse, Maxwell held himself upright with the utmost confidence.

Warm, sun-kissed skin soaked up the afternoon rays. Brown hair was carefully slicked back, teasing glances beckoning Dorian to follow him to the ends of the world itself. Maxwell inspired a loyalty influenced by a power greater than a siren’s song, a loyalty that might even lead them to their eventual demise, a fate accepted in stride so long as Dorian could remain by his side.

Maxwell circled his horse around him, and Dorian couldn’t help but wonder if the posturing was intentional.

After all, he had certainly cleaned up for—for whatever this was.

Gone were those tasteless rags of his, those drab, brown pajamas hopefully tossed out of his wardrobe for good.

In their place, Maxwell wore a blue shirt, crafted of the finest silk that shimmered lightly through each shift of his chest. The top few buttons were left undone, revealing a golden chain nestled around his throat and hanging down between his pecs. Black, form-fitting pants accentuated the shape of his legs, hugging Maxwell’s hips and thighs. The fabric was tucked into a pair of black, leather boots, designed for both style and comfort.

Dorian had to admit, he was impressed.

All of that, and he didn’t even have to lift a finger to help.

Safe to say, Maxwell took his breath away.

Younger Dorian, who spent his days reading and fantasizing about handsome, heroic princes from far-off lands, positively swooned at the sight before him.

Not that current Dorian was faring much better.

He swallowed thickly as he watched Max, his lips parted in awe.

Maxwell, oblivious to Dorian’s appraisal —or, perhaps, acutely aware of it— flashed him a blinding smile.

"Race you!" he stated.

With a slight flick of the reins and a click of his tongue, the horse sped up into a steady trot towards the drawbridge. People maneuvered around them both, steering clear of their path.

It was hard to ignore all of the stares they were attracting; but, for once, Dorian was inclined to let them look.

He had the most amazing man in Thedas all to himself, and that was all that mattered.

Catching up to him, Dorian feigned an annoyed grumble.

"A rather unfair challenge, don't you think?" Dorian asked. "Considering the fact that you know the way to our destination while I am left in the dark, following on blind faith alone."

Maxwell hummed in contemplation, drinking in the sight of Dorian from head to toe, which was fair. Dorian had certainly gotten his fill of Max. The latter deserved to marvel in the excellence of his resident altus.

And if Dorian happened to sit up a bit straighter under the weight of that appreciative gaze, head held high with pride…

Well, that would remain between the two of them.

Voice warm and low, Maxwell leaned in and told him, "Try to keep up then."

Without warning, he took off into a galloping pace, a hearty laugh left in his wake.

Once again, Dorian was left chasing after him, ringing out with his own laughter in turn.

"Oh, you're delightful!" Dorian called out over the whipping winds, quickly gaining on Maxwell’s position, only a couple of paces behind.

Together, they rode through the mountainside until the blank canvas of white gave way to snow-covered flora. Icicles hung like crystals from bare branches, capturing sunlight, only to cast it out in an array of colors.

Thankfully, Dorian had little time to even think about the cold, let alone fixate upon it.

Eventually, they arrived at the edge of a clearing. Maxwell slowed to a stop, far enough from Skyhold to grant them some privacy yet close enough to be back a moment’s notice, should they be needed.

While Dorian didn't think himself to be much of a praying man, he happily prayed then that they not be needed. Not anytime soon, at least.

After Maxwell jumped down from his horse, he approached Dorian’s side without missing a beat. Offering his hand out again, Dorian gladly took it, allowing Maxwell to help him down to his feet.

They stood there for a second, chest to chest, while all of the world and its problems melted away into the background.

"Well," Maxwell said, "looks like I won the race."

"You don't say," Dorian hummed. Gentle fingers combed through Max's hair, coaxing any strays back into place. "I never would have guessed."

"Mm-hmm…"

They stole glances at each other's lips.

Maxwell tugged him closer by the waist, Dorian’s arms wrapped around his neck.

Their noses brushed ever so slightly.

"Tell me," Dorian whispered. "What prize does the illustrious Inquisitor desire for his well-earned victory?"

By then, their lips were barely a hair’s width away.

"A kiss from a certain someone would suffice, but that must wait, I'm afraid." Their lips had only just grazed against one another when their warmth disappeared entirely. Dorian's breath was stolen from him as Maxwell pulled away, placing a careful distance between them both. "All in due time, handsome."

"Hmph, you're such a tease," Dorian huffed, albeit with no real heat to his voice.

"It'll be worth it," Maxwell reminded him. He even had the audacity to wink at him. "I'll make it up to you later."

"You better."

"I swear. Now, close your eyes."

"Seriously?" Dorian scoffed.

"Please," Maxwell said. "For me?"

Well, when he put it like that…

"Oh, alright, fine!" Dorian closed his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. "You're lucky you're so cute."

Maxwell only chuckled in response.

Dorian listened closely while he coaxed the horses away with soft murmurs. His footsteps faded off into the distance, but logic told Dorian that it couldn't have been more than a few minutes before he returned.

Didn't stop those few minutes from feeling like an eternity.

Maxwell took him by the hands and led him forward.

"Ready?" he asked.

"Ready for what, exactly?" Dorian wondered.

"You'll find out. All I ask is that you keep your eyes closed until I tell you to open them."

"Not cryptic at all."

Nevertheless, he followed, trusting Maxwell with his life.

Dorian spoke to fill the ensuing silence.

"You know, we should have ridden double," Dorian stated. "Like in the stories! The ones where the protagonist whisks the love interest away on horseback, arms wrapped tightly around them as they ride off into the sunset together."

Max snorted. "But of course. One small problem, though."

"And what is that?"

"As lovely as the idea is, horses can only support so much before you start to risk injury to them or yourself, and I, for one, was not going to be on the receiving end of Master Dennet's anger for hurting one of his precious babies."

"Fair enough," Dorian conceded, sighing dramatically. "Foolish books, giving me unrealistic expectations of romance."

"Heh, hopefully this will make up for it."

Snow crunched beneath their feet until, surprisingly, it stopped.

Before Dorian could question him about it, Maxwell beat him to the punch.

"Just a little farther, and…" Maxwell trailed off. He took Dorian by the shoulders and arranged him into position. Strangely enough, Dorian felt the cold wash away. In its place, a wave of heat enveloped them, but Maxwell hardly sounded shocked by this development. "There!" He released him. "Now, open your eyes."

Dorian didn’t have to be told twice.

He squinted, blinking past the relentless daylight, and eventually managed to pry his eyes open.

What awaited them was unlike anything he had expected.

It was a scene plucked right out of a fairytale.

Without thinking, Dorian placed a hand over his racing heart.

“Wow,” he gasped. “This is amazing.”

Even then, that was the understatement of the century.

The clearing that Maxwell brought him to was secluded; however, more than that, it had the thriving appearance of a meadow in spring. A large, square area was protected from the harsh winter snow. Lush, green grass sprouted all over, sprinkled with patches of colorful wildflowers that danced in the occasional breeze.

In the center of it all, a blanket was spread out. And upon that blanket, there sat a basket, alongside Dorian’s long-forgotten book.

Streams of golden light filtered through the nearby branches, reflecting off of tiny motes that glided through the air.

Their horses were secured to a tree close by, grazing happily amongst the fresh grass.

It was their own little oasis, surrounded by a cold desert.

After another speechless moment to really soak it all in, Dorian was finally able to catch his breath.

“Maxwell.” He turned to him, incredulous. “How did you manage to do all of this?”

He waved his arms grandly at the setting before them, twirling in place.

Pleased with his reaction, Maxwell shrugged, uncharacteristically bashful, as he glanced around.

“I might have asked Dagna for a favor,” he said, nodding at each of the square’s four corners. “The work of runes. They ward off the cold and ‘any critters or creepy crawlies,’ as she explained it. Kind of like a mixture of fire runes for warmth and protective sigils to keep the wildlife at bay.”

“Makes sense,” Dorian breathed, once again impressed with the quality of her work. “Remind me to thank her later.”

“We both will,” Maxwell assured him, then admitted, “I had actually wanted to bring you sooner, but I needed to position the runes just right. Then, after that, it was basically a waiting game for the snow to melt and the mud to dry up.”

So, he had been working on this for a while then.

Dorian smiled at him tenderly.

“Thank you,” he said.

Maxwell chuckled.

“You haven’t even gotten to the best part yet.”

“You mean, there’s more?”

“Of course.” Taking Dorian’s hand in his, Maxwell bowed slightly at the waist to press a kiss upon the back of it. His lips lingered, eyes trained on Dorian the entire time. “Will you dine with me, Serah Pavus?”

“I’d be honored to.”

Eager to see what else he had in store for him, Dorian all but dragged him over to the blanket. Maxwell, ever the gentleman, helped him get seated before joining him at his side.

Dorian didn’t so much as hesitate before snuggling up to him.

Maxwell tossed him a grin and opened up the basket.

A whiff of warm spices instantly greeted them. Dorian’s mouth watered. His stomach grumbled.

The scent was a familiar one, one that reminded him of home, but he didn’t dare get his hopes up, trying his best to sneak a peek.

“So, what’s on the menu today?” he asked.

“I made us lamb curry,” Maxwell answered, casual as can be.

Dorian choked at that.

“Wait, what?”

“I said that I made—”

“I heard what you said, but you cooked?” Dorian stammered. “For me?”

“Was I not supposed to do that?” Maxwell deadpanned. 

“I— No! I mean, it’s just that…” Dorian blew out a frustrated breath, at a loss for words. “Surely, you have more important things to do than wait on me, hand and foot. You must be incredibly busy.”

“Not busy enough to neglect spending time with you. I know you’ve been homesick,” Maxwell stated, his brow furrowed in concern. He reached out and cupped Dorian’s cheek, brushing his thumb along the curve of it. “I know it’s not the same, but I wanted you to feel a little bit at home. Here, with me.”

Dorian melted into his touch, releasing a shaky breath.

“Damn it. You’re going to make me cry at this rate,” he informed him. Already, he could feel a slight sting building at the corner of his eyes. He blinked past the burn of unshed tears. Carefully, he wiped at them before they could fall. “Stop it. I have an image to uphold, you know.”

Maxwell snickered.

“Of course. Here.” He reached into the basket and unearthed a bottle, cradled with the utmost care. “Something to cheer you up.”

Dorian didn’t even have to read the label to know what it was.

“You got us an Antivan Red imported in?” he asked. “Out here? Don’t even get me started on the spices that you had to get for that curry, Inquisitor.”

“Leliana and I might have pulled some strings,” Maxwell said.

“Of course you did.” Dorian playfully glared at him, the bottle hugged close to his chest. “Okay, out with it.”

“Out with what?” Maxwell questioned. He cocked his head to the side.

“What’s the special occasion?” Dorian countered. “My guess is that you’re either going to propose, or you’re going to ask to fool around out here in the middle of the woods, where anyone could happen upon us.”

“The real question is, would you even say yes to either of those options?”

Dorian thought it over, then shrugged.

“Ask me after my third glass.”

Once he opened it, he shamelessly took a swig from the bottle, comfortable enough to ignore decorum when they were all alone.

Maxwell passed him two glasses, which he filled up generously. In the meantime, Max worked on uncovering their dish, still steaming with warmth over a bed of rice.

“Want to try a bite?” he asked.

Scooping up a heaping portion with his fork, he held it out in offering.

As if Dorian would refuse.

“I’d love to.”

The instant Dorian wrapped his lips around the fork, he swore that he transcended to a whole other plane of existence.

Now, usually when he read fiction, the premise of someone moaning over their food was always eye roll-inducing at best.

However, after trying Maxwell’s cooking, he was a changed man.

The richness of the base, the tenderness of the lamb, the warmth of the spices…

All of it came together perfectly.

“Oh,” he purred, “you, my good sir, are a god amongst men.”

“Tell me something I don’t know,” Maxwell teased.

He took his glass of wine from Dorian and raised it between them.

They stared into each other’s eyes while he made his toast.

“To us,” he whispered.

They clinked their glasses together.

“To us,” Dorian agreed, as they both took a more tentative sip to savor the taste.

The light, fruity notes complimented their dish well. An exquisite pairing that lingered on the palate, but not that he expected anything less from Max.

Once again, Dorian found himself stealing glimpses of Maxwell’s lips.

“You know this will cause people to talk,” he said.

“Compared to usual,” Maxwell replied, his sarcasm deafening, “when they remain absolutely silent about the two of us?”

“You know what I mean.” Dorian snuggled closer, his lips quirked up into a smirk. “You ran off to some secluded location with that dastardly Tevinter magister.” He rolled his eyes at the misuse of the title. “Maker have mercy!” He raised his voice in pitch, mimicking a tone of fright and scandal. “Will our beloved Inquisitor return the same? How are we sure that madman isn’t conducting some sinister ritual in secret, sacrificing the blood of goats and virgins in the name of the Black Divine?”

“Hmm…” Maxwell hummed with a pointed look around the clearing. “Sorry to disappoint, but I don’t think there are any goats around.” He snorted. “Or virgins, I’m afraid.”

“Alas,” Dorian sighed, “I guess that we’ll have to make do without.”

“Cast your magic then. I’d happily fall under your spell.”

“You’re terrible.”

Using his free hand, Dorian curled his finger around Maxwell’s chain, tugging him closer until their lips brushed.

Maxwell swallowed thickly.

“Kiss me,” Dorian whispered. “Please, I—”

Whatever he was going to say, Maxwell cut him off in an instant. Their lips crashed against one another, pleading, desperate. They gasped for breath, only to reclaim the kiss with renewed fervor.

Dorian didn’t know how long they stayed there, lost in the moment and the feel of each other.

Part of him wanted so badly to remain there forever, but all good things must come to an end, or so people said.

Eventually, they parted.

Maxwell rested his forehead against Dorian’s while they struggled to compose themselves.

The words slipped free before Dorian could even process them.

“Are we sure that I’m not dreaming right now?”

“If you are,” Maxwell answered, stealing a swift peck, “then promise not to wake up, because I don’t ever want this dream to end.”

Dorian smiled into the next kiss.

“Neither do I.”

[nohookstobefoundhere]

ALL of the cocktail asks, for Olivia Minuit and Maple Stagleaf

This is gonna get long so I hope you're ready

Olivia Minuit

Ameratto sour ~ if your oc can drive what kind of vehicle do they drive? Do they have a dream vehicle?

Olivia has driven an uncountable amount of vehicles, from animals to machines throughout history so she is comfortable driving whatever is given to her but she doesn't own a vehicle herself. Living the quiet life in Ruby Ridge she likes to take her time and walk everywhere though she does have a rather old bike for when she needs it. As for dream vehicles, well when you've seen everything from the creation of the wheel onward it's kinda hard to wonder what's next eh? So for her, simply seeing what humanity comes up next is a dream of its own.

Blue Lagoon ~ what does your oc wear to sleep? Do they have a dedicated set of pyjamas or wear whatever?

Because of her past, Olivia wears the baggiest and flowiest of clothing, which to her means sun dresses. But when it comes to sleep wear? It truly depends on where she is and with who? If she's in strange place with strangers, she just outright sleeps in her clothes in case she needs to escape. But at home by herself? It can be anywhere from cute loose pyjamas or just her undergarments. Anything less is when she's just shared her heart with someone. Something she almost never does.

:readmore:

Piña Colada ~ if your oc has a bag or purse, what are five things inside?

Books, notepad and pencil for those who don't know sign language, a switchblade, pads and tampons just in case someone around her needs it and a water bottle.

Singapore Sling ~ what was one of your OCS favourite tv show/movie as a child? Do they still enjoy it now?

Given that Olivia was never a child, at least not like humans do, this is rather a hard question to answer so I'll it as what shows or movies comfort her/makes her feel better. Studio Ghibli simply put, for when she feels like she's losing touch with humanity and is lonely, kids cartoons and movies when she needs to laugh and horror when she's angry or just want to relax.

Woo woo ~ what's their relationship like with their parent/guardian?

Complicated. She isn't human, her creation was, well, not unwanted. She is serving her purpose but it's not like she wants to be around them nor do they care to interact with her. She's just happy to be. When they do interact though it's stiff and business like. And given they only appear in her dreams, lest they kill thousands by their sheer presence, she always wakes up exhausted and grumpy.

Margarita ~ does your oc have any disorders or disability?

Given that a stream of blood constantly flow into her mouth, she is unable to speak lest she closes her eyes rendering her vulnerable. So instead she signs to communicate. Few have heard her voice but it is said to be enchanting. She also has heavy trauma that she masks... Maybe too well. She also doesn't have eyes, just black empty voids for eye sockets though that doesn't seem to affect her vision but it definitely scares those who aren't used to her.

Long Island iced tea ~ who are your oc's best friends?

She doesn't have any friends. Just acquaintances. And her Soul.

Grasshopper ~ describe your oc's personality

She is calm, quiet and solitary. She enjoys books, tea, cooking and laughing. A kind and understanding mother she tries to be her best in order to bring out the best in those she loves. She will kill those who threaten her loved ones.

Jungle bird ~ Has your oc ever made choices they regret?

Too many... Too many... When you live as long as she has, it's inevitable. Best not dwell on the past, especially when some of the people you love reminds you of it.

Harvey Wallbanger ~ post images or moodboards that fit your oc's aesthetic

Uh, can I DM you that? This is getting pretty long as is. Just remind me ok?

Dirty banana ~ post a song or lyric that fits your oc

Uh, there's a lot of songs that do... Hmm... Maybe happy loner by marina? Or wrecked by imagine dragons? What about go tell aunt Rhody from resident evil 7? Anyways hope those are satisfactory!

Chocolate martini ~ does your oc's name or design reference anything?

Ok first of chocolate martini? That sounds disgusting! Ahem, anyways, her design originates from a mental painting I thought up once... Just made from darkness and pain from the inside... Anyways I built her from that portrait and named her Olivia Minuit. Olivia because the olive branch is a symbol of peace, something she seeks in herself and the world. Minuit is french for midnight, fitting given her origins.

Mojito ~ does your oc have any tattoos and/or piercings? If so what are they? If not, do they want some?

She doesn't, and although she can see the beauty of it she's gone through too much pain in her life to willingly let herself feel pain just for art or fashion.

Daiquiri ~ is your oc a smoker?

No, and she despise smoking to boot. Too many bad memories linked to it.

Mimosa ~ has your oc ever committed a crime? If so what did they do? If not, what would they most likely be to commit?

She's lived through all of humanity's history. She hasn't commited every crime, she isn't evil or malicious, but sometimes you gotta do what needs to be done in order to survive, protect and cause change.

Tequila Sunrise ~ does your oc have any hobbies? Is there something they've always wanted to do but never had the chance?

She has had many hobbies, some she dropped, some she just can't do in our present day for various reasons others she simply lost interest. These days her hobbies consist of reading, cooking, gardening, sewing and playing video games. She also enjoys studying whatever catches her eyes.

Of course there's plenty she wants to learn and do but she's not worried, either she'll get to it or it just wasn't meant to be.

Mai Tai ~ how was your oc's life growing up? Did they do well in school if they attended? Do they have any awkward teenage memories?

Her life can be summarized in three words: pain, solitude and longing. She had to learn many things the hard way, her unique attributes made people alienate her and she spent her life just wanting to find a place where she belonged. Of course these weren't constants but they were a major part of her life throughout the millennias.

Whenever she sought out education she always gave it her all, sometimes she succeeded, sometimes she failed miserably. Nobody can be good at everything, not even her kind.

Awkward teenage memories? No, but lots of awkward memories of her trying to navigate the human world.

Blue Hawaii ~ does your oc speak any other languages? If they didn't learn to speak the language when growing up, when and why did they learn it?

Olivia has lived through eons, she has learned and forgotten languages like the sun rises and falls. She learns either out of necessity or curiosity. Currently she knows french, English, Greek, Japanese, Korean and German. And she is trying to relearn arabian and Spanish but mostly to pass the time.

Cuba libre ~ if your oc wears any cologne/perfume, what's their favourite?

She naturally smells of blood, so she tries to hide the scent with perfumes and colognes. Only one has worked and it's because it marries well with the smell of blood. A simple perfume that makes her smell like she's just finished tending to her flower beds.

Caipirinha ~ what does your oc's voice sound like?

Soft, low and enchanting. It's melodic and pleasant. But when she talks to those she trusts it also becomes full of life and passion, less low and soft, less subdued. It is a beautiful calming voice.

Gin Rickey ~ what does your oc consider to be their best feature? Alternatively, what's something they're most self-conscious about.

Her laugh and her smile, because those things always make others smile and laugh in turn.

Her eyes... They attract trouble, they attract darkness, and yet she cannot hide them...

Manhattan ~ what kind of people does your oc hate the most?

The greedy, the selfish and the uncaring. They have hurt her the most. They are the ones she has killed the most.

Maple Stagleaf

Ameratto sour ~ if your oc can drive what kind of vehicle do they drive? Do they have a dream vehicle?

Maple just rides around with his bicycle. He doesn’t really leave the school campus so he doesn’t need more than that otherwise buses exists. Dream vehicle? No, not really. Whatever works for his current needs would be enough for him.

Blue Lagoon ~ what does your oc wear to sleep? Do they have a dedicated set of pyjamas or wear whatever?

He just wears boxers in the warmer months and pj bottoms when it’s cold. he has specific boxers for sleeping and pj set for when he’s sleeping away from home.

Piña Colada ~ if your oc has a bag or purse, what are five things inside?

Laptop, school books, sketchbook, school supplies and a water bottle.

Singapore Sling ~ what was one of your OCS favourite tv show/movie as a   child? Do they still enjoy it now?

Brother bear because of all the autumn colours and the story. It always made him wish he was that close to his overworked or carefree siblings.

Woo woo ~ what's their relationship like with their parent/guardian?

He loves his parents but he never sees them. His mom is the moon goddess and his dad being the white stag. He just never has any reasons nor opportunities to see them.

Margarita ~ does your oc have any disorders or disability?

Not explicitly, but his focus on schoolwork makes him feel lonely and isolated despite his small circle of friends. They know this and try to drag him out from time to time. He also longs for love but doesn’t seem to really understand what that entails.

Long Island iced tea ~ who are your oc's best friends?

Hugo Honeysuckle, a grizzly bear, he’s currently studying zoology and entomology. he’s a soft and kind friend and roommate to Maple. He enjoys going to the local pub for a beer and fish and chips with their other friends. He always asks Maple to tag along but it only works on Fridays. He has a daughter from a one night stand he had as a teen from which he’s raising with the help of his retired parents.

Grasshopper ~ describe your oc's personality

Calm and reserved like his older brother. Maple mostly focuses on his studies to forget his loneliness and troubles weighing him down with his brothers. Although kind, he knows martial arts and uses it in self-defence... he unfortunately tends to misjudge when it is appropriate to do so. he loves art and is actually studying art and art, which is how he met Hugo. He has trouble breaking his routine if plans come up too quickly and needs a least three days in advance to be comfortable to have his routine changed. Hugo is the only one with whom he has an easier time stepping out of his routine for on a whim.

Jungle bird ~ Has your oc ever made choices they regret?

Too many. But a big one is how he left his brothers before going to school. He has yet to build the courage to face them.

Harvey Wallbanger ~ post images or moodboards that fit your oc's aesthetic

just picture autumn, books, sweaters, antlers and wood and you got the vibe.

Dirty banana ~ post a song or lyric that fits your oc

One day, I'll change my ways 'Til then I'm stuck in this space Shut down and hiding my face Tuned out and losing my faith 

I don’t like myself - Imagine Dragons

Chocolate martini ~ does your oc's name or design reference anything?

Autumn is mostly the idea here. Things winding down, things ending, getting ready for a rough time until it gets better again.

Mojito ~ does your oc have any tattoos and/or piercings? If so what are they? If not, do they want some?

He does not and he’s fine like that.

Daiquiri ~ is your oc a smoker?

Absolutely not.

Mimosa ~ has your oc ever committed a crime? If so what did they do? If not, what would they most likely be to commit?

What god hasn’t? Currently though no, he has no want to attract attention to himself. He just wants to be.

Tequila Sunrise ~ does your oc have any hobbies? Is there something they've always wanted to do but never had the chance?

he enjoys reading and building craft kits. knitting and sketching.

Mai Tai ~ how was your oc's life growing up? Did they do well in school if they attended? Do they have any awkward teenage memories?

It... was not a good life. hard and unforgiving and unfortunately, all of his own making. He simply tried to be like his brother’s but somehow things always ended up broken, ruined or finished because of him despite doing everything right one way or another. His only friends we’re his brothers but despite being the second oldest, he couldn’t help but feel like the youngest.

Blue Hawaii ~ does your oc speak any other languages? If they didn't learn to speak the language when growing up, when and why did they learn it?

He knows french and English and dapples in any language the nearest book is when he, just, needs to not be for a while.

Cuba libre ~ if your oc wears any cologne/perfume, what's their favourite?

A nice pine or woodsy perfume, people often mistake him for a hiker or camper by how much of nature he smells like.

Caipirinha ~ what does your oc's voice sound like?

an average male voice that’s calm, collected and tired but still pleasant to listen to.

Gin Rickey ~ what does your oc consider to be their best feature? Alternatively, what's something they're most self-conscious about.

His antlers are his pride, no other stag or creature which grows antlers has ever compared to his and it helps to unlike everyone else, his does not shed in autumn. Most likely thanks to his father. most think they’re fake given they stay year round but those who know their antlers know that you just can’t fake antlers like his. he also enjoys his subtle musculature.

he’s self conscious about his second guessing and sometimes about his clothing choices caused by his magnificent antlers.

Manhattan ~ what kind of people does your oc hate the most?

liars, hypocrites, slobs and the purposefully ignorant. Those who enjoy controlling and those who are stuck in their own little world.

[with-love-from-hell]

oho i just saw ur reqs are open ❤️❤️❤️ may i get a luci/satan (separate or only lucifer if u have to choose hehe) x artist!mc? hurt/comfort, they struggle because they do art for a living because they're not good at anything else yet they feel like they aren't good enough to be an artist? id also love to see their reactions to drawings and paintings mc did of them <3 maybe also their reaction to their vent art? I can elaborate on this on dms since i dont wanna talk abt it in public hehe. Thank u so much big sis Storm <3

Hello!!!!!!! <3 Thank you for the request (: ! I am also adding Solomon per your specific dm. I hope you enjoy these short drabbles- i had fun writing it! 💕

I decided to take this to basically just giving a scenario of an artist!Mc who does vent art and Satan, Lucifer, and Solomon find their sketch book or see them creating! 

Dark Art

Genre - Comfort, slight hurt, fluff

Written for a GN!Mc

Wc: ~3.8k

Cw: vague mentions of depression/trauma (nothing too dark), vent art that is described as disturbing (e.g. gore, horror, etc), vague mentions of self-harm, mentions of crushes/relationships, mildly suggestive on Solomon’s, unpolished

Satan

"Mc, over here!"

Satan waves frantically to you from his spot at the corner of the library. Your face lifts as you see the excited expression on his face, and you gleefully stride over to the set of arm chairs he had set aside for the two of you.

It had become a weekly ritual for the two of you to spend your independent study hour at RAD together tucked away in a random corner of the library. Satan would- as usual- be reading a book and provide commentary to you on his thoughts while absorbing the story. In turn, you would normally have your sketch pad out, venting the stress of the day on paper. It was nice to be able to be close to someone, yet still engage in your own independent activities without judgement.

Satan had seen your artwork before. The first time he noticed the aggressively slashed lines on your paper, he was a bit concerned. Though, after you explained your process as a way to vent emotions, he understood. He was intrigued by your coping skill, and would be lying if he'd say he wasn't interested in giving it a try to better manage his anger.

Throughout your time in the Devildom (despite the initial difficulties- if you could call it that), Satan and you had become extremely close, finding deep comfort in the intense emotional responses you both had to things. It was almost as if the two of you shared a silent understanding of eachother's plight. Satan seemed the most human out of all his brothers, despite still being a demon.

Over time, he grew more and more interested in your artwork, finding comfort in your explanations for your choice in pen stroke, or color palette. He would stare at you with a look that could only be described as pure awe as you explained, eager to soak in your thoughts and emotions. It was strangely...cathartic.

And today, that eager curiosity was no different than the past as your pencile glided across the thick paper of your sketchbook. It was a piece you had been working on for awhile- a side profile of Satan. You were currently working on detailing the soft curvature of his lips, having just finished detailing his delicate blonde locks.

Apparently, you hadn't glanced up at him in awhile, too engrossed in your artwork. If you would have, you would have noticed the look of intrigue painted all over his face as he watched you. Sometimes, your artwork was less aggressive and more delicate- though it was a rarity. And Satan's interest was typically especially perked by these drawings.

"What are you working on so intently there, hmm?" He mused. A smirk slowly formed on his lips as he watched you freeze up and a harsh blush appeared on your cheeks.

"Uh- nothing!" You snapped, a bit too quickly and harshly.

Satan's curiosity only grew at your attempts to hide what you had been so fixated on from him. Sure you were insecure about your art at first, but you had overcome the embarrassment and were eager to share your work with him most of the time. Hr would notice you picking at your cuticles as he observed a more intimate piece, but overall you would let him observe your work, even if it was unfinished.

Satan clicked his tongue at you teasingly. "Oh come now, Mc. Its been so long since you were nervous to share a drawing with me. Come on, let's see!" Satan reached out a hand as a gesture for you to give him the book.

You gulped, clutching the book into your chest. Your voice came out as a subdued stutter. "Its- uh...its not done yet."

Satan raised an eyebrow at you. "That's never stopped you from letting me see before..."

You glanced down at the floor, face burning so hot that you swore your body had caught fire. Satan sighed, and withdrew his gesture, but continued staring at you.

"Is it really so embarrassing? You know that I adore your artwork." Satan's expression was now one of disappointment as he pretended to return his focus to his book.

You chewed your lip for a moment, curious as to how he'd respond if he knew you were drawing him. He had never been one to criticize your art, only offering helpful feedback if he gave any sort of critique- which was rare even if you asked for it. With a resided sigh, you squeezed your eyes shut and thrust the sketchbook at him.

Satan smiled and retrieved the book from your hands, his heart leaping into his throat as he recognized the features of his face on the smooth page. His expression changed to one of surprise and his cheeks flushed a deep crimson hue as he took in the artwork.

He traced his finger along the wispy lines in his hair, trailing them down to the bump in his neck where you had so immaculately depicted his Adam's apple. His eyes trailed the page longer than you were expecting, and nervousness bubbled within your chest as your heart thumped loudly in your ears.

What if he thought you were creepy? Your insecure thoughts hissed at you as you peaked at him through one eye. There's no way he'd find this endearing.

You snatch the sketchbook back out of his hands, your face pale from embarrassment. You quickly gathered your belongings and turn to leave, but are caught by the wrist.

"Mc, wait." Satan's voice was barely above a whisper.

Your breath caught in your throat as you slowly turned back to him. You couldn't find the courage to speak, but Satan recognized the expression on your face as one of shame.

"How long have you been working on that?" He queries, nodding towar the sketchbook tucked into your armpit. "It looks like its taken a long time..."

You turn your gaze to the floor, the anxiety continuing to course through your veins. Satan noticed the continued embarrassment, figuring perhaps he had chosen the wrong words to express how flattered he was.

"Mc..." he took a deep breath, his blush growing a deeper red. "I love it."

You snap your gaze up to him. "Huh?"

He gives you a weak smile. His hand that gripped your wrist becoming clammy as his nerves took over. "I said...I love it. I'm honored you've chosen me as the subject of your artwork."

The tension you hold slowly releases and you ease back down into the arm chair. Satan rubs the back of his neck with his hand as he tries to figure out what to say. After a pregnant pause, you both lock eyes. Your hearts both flutter at the emotions identified within your eyes as they stared admirably at one another.

Another smile passed by his lips, wider this time- giving you a spark of inspiration for the way you now wanted his lips to look. You quickly flip to the page you had been working on and begin to change the details in Satan's face so a loving smile is decorating his features, rather than the neutral look he had before.

Satan could only smile wider, admiring you work with his cheek pressed against his palm.

Lucifer

"AGH- God dammit! MAMMOOOOON!"

Lucifer was just trying to go to bed after a long day of paperwork and stress...And of course Mammon had to go and leave the bags of garbage compiled from his room right around the corner from the stairs, causing Lucifer to trip and nearly fall.

He growled, the migraine pulsing through his head becoming more prominent with each passing stomp toward his room. It was 2 in the God damned morning, and Mammon had some nerve leaving his trash out for someone else to deal with. Surely this would mean a long lecture, and perhaps the punishment of custodial duty at RAD for the next two weeks.

He paused as he approached your room, his thoughts drifting away as he saw the door cracked open. Lucifer felt his lips curve into a soft smile as he thought about you relaxing after a hard day as well. Perhaps he should pay you a visit? Just for a quick 'goodnight'...

And just like that, his priorities have changed. He knocks gently on the frame before pushing your door open slightly

"Mc?" Lucifer called softly, peering into your bedroom. He clamped his mouth shut though when he saw you asleep at your desk. Your head was resting on your craned arm, a shading pencil still caught between your fingers and your hair. Your mouth hung open slightly, and a soft wheezing could be heard as you slept.

Lucifer chucked to himself and waltzed over to you. Normally, he would quietly shut your door and turn off the light if he were to intrude on your sleep, but the position you were in was so obviously uncomfortable. He gently plucked the pencil from your hand and set it down at the desk, but paused when he noticed the image that was half-drawn on the page.

A grotesque looking monster was positioned front and center of the page. Its mouth hung open, dripping a dark viscous liquid dripping from its razer sharp teeth. Eyes littered its face, some seemingly bloodshot while others were purely displaying the sclera- though he was unsure if this was due to the artwork being unfinished or by personal choice. The lines were aggressively strewn across the page, almost looking like you had been battling with the paper.

Lucifer cast a worried glance at you. He had seen you drawing in your sketchbook before, but he'd never actually seen what you were drawing. Nervousness rose in his chest as he thought about why you may be chosing to draw such an upsetting creature...perhaps it was just a special interest?

Curiosity got the better of him as he slipped your sketch book from under your sleeping body. He tucked it away in his coat pocket, determined to look through it later. After all, he knew that human art tended to reflect the emotions of the artist, and he wanted to make sure you were okay. Besides, he could always ask for forgiveness later.

Lucifer swiftly moved your body to your bed, being as gentle as possible so as not to wake you. After tucking you in and placing a gentle kiss to your forehead, he quickly left to his room to look through your sketch book.

After changing into silken pajamas and pouring himself a very full glass of Demonus, lucifer settled into his cozy armchair across from the roaring fire. He flipped through the pages of your book, pausing on each drawing to observe the features. To his relief, not all of them were like the grotesque looking beast you had been working on today. Some of them were sketches of Devildom flora, or of various bugs or animals.

But even still...the amount of aggressive line work and upsetting images were enough to cause concern. He made a mental note to check in with you about the artwork, and about your current mental state.

He hoped you would open up to him- to tell him what your troubles were. He desired to be close to you, but he still sensed an ambivalence on your end- and rightfully so. He had lashed out at you more than once, and the thought did pass him by that you were perhaps drawing these upsetting things to vent your trauma at his hand.

Lucifer sighed and rose from his seat, closing the sketch book. As he walked the book over to his night stand, a folded piece of paper slipped out from between the blank pages in the back and onto the floor. Lucifer paused, staring at it quizzically.

Perhaps it was just some old notes, or a discarded drawing you had meant to throw away? Regardless, he leaned into his curiosity and picked up the paper. After he unfolded it, he was greeted with a sight he couldn't even have imagined.

It was...him? An immaculately detailed profile of his upper body. It appeared you had maybe drawn it during one of the council meetings, as he had his RAD uniform on and he looked focused on something from across the room- Diavolo, more than likely. Lucifer stared at the page, awestruck at clearly how much time and effort went into making this.

Lucifer quickly reopened the book, flipping past some empty pages to find any more art he potentially had missed. Between the blank pages, he found a few more folded up papers, each holding a different portrait of him.

Sitting amongst the 5 pages on his bed, Lucifer didn't how to react. A bright blush decorated his features, and a slight smile twitched onto his lips. Did this mean...that you wanted to be close to him too? Maybe he had read you wrong...

Lucifer selected the drawing that caught his eye the most- an image of him in his demon form with his arms crossed. He trailed his image along the detailed feathers on the wings, his smile growing wider. Thoughts of how you viewed him danced through his head and made his chest swell with pride:

Did you think he was beautiful? Intriguing? Mysterious? How often do you look at him? What is your favorite feature of his?

Lucifer tucked the image away into his nightstand, keeping it for himself. He refolded the others, reluctantly returning them to their places in between the blank pages of the book. He quickly rushed to your room, returning the book to your desk quietly.

Lucifer practically sprinted back to his room, nearly leaping into bed and retrieving the image from his nightstand. He stared at it for what seemed like hours, admiring every little detail. Part of him cursed himself for acting like a giddy school girl who found out her crush likes her back, but another part of him wanted to drown in the feeling of being admired by you.

As he fell asleep that night, the drawing lay atop his chest, clutched in one hand. Before unconsciousness took over, he made a silent promise to himself. No longer would he hide the desire to be close to you. He would let whatever walls down he could to let you see whatever it is you wanted to see in him. No longer would you admire each other from afar...

...But first, he was still going to get to the bottom of those disturbing images.

Solomon

“Mc, would you hand me that vial over there?” Solomon asked, not even bothering to turn his attention to were you had been sitting. He was so engrossed in his newest potion that he hadn’t even noticed you had said you were going to go take a walk because your leg was cramping. 

Surely he should have figured you would need to get up and move eventually- especially after your body had been contorted into the corner of the small room due to the amount of space his supplies took up. After all- this was something you had agreed to do to get some peace and quiet away from the chaos at the House of Lamentation, not to help him with his grueling work. 

Solomon turned after he wasn’t given a response, slight irritation crossing his face until he realized you weren’t in your spot on the floor. He sighed, rising from his position and grabbing the vial himself. He paused though, when he noticed your sketch book had been left open to something you had been working on.

Solomon’s interest was piqued, but he fought the urge to pick up the book, returning to his position at his caldron. After adding the final ingredient and seeing a small mushroom cloud of dark yellow smoke billow out from the top of the liquid, he turned off the heat and let the substance cool. He was pleased to finally have gotten the expected result from his new sensory-enhancing potion, and he couldn’t wait to get some Guinea pigs (aka- the 7 brothers) to test it out. 

As he leaned back on his stool and dusted his clothes off, he found his gaze wandering back to the sketch book. He scoffed, trying to be more aware of his unconscious desire to snoop through your artwork. He had more self control than the demons he was surrounded by...or so he thought. 

Solomon couldn’t remember a time that he had known you that you weren’t drawing in that book. He was sure it had to be filled to the brim with different types of art by now- and frankly he was surprised you still brought the same ratty sketchbook every time you joined him in his room. Usually he was so busy with something, that he couldn’t do more than spare a passing glance at your hands scribbling and erasing away on the paper. He had never actually seen anything you created before. 

The more he tried to push away the urge to sift through your drawings, the more the impulse coursed through his mind. Finally, he decided to toss a coin to get the idea over with and out of his head. Heads, he would look through your book; Tails, he would go try to find where you had gone to distract him from the urge. 

Somewhere in his mind he knew he could just do the latter and be done with it...but his curiosity was getting the better of him. 

He tossed the coin in the air, seeing it land on tails. He cursed under his breath, having silently hoped it would be heads to give him an excuse to take a peak. Surely it would annoy you if you caught him, but what could he say? He wasn’t called “shifty” for nothing!

Solomon moved toward the door, his hand pausing on the handle as he looked back toward the sketch book. He stood there a moment, wondering what your art style was like, and intrigued by the mystery of the book.

“Fuck it.” He mumbled, turning away from the door. He paced quickly toward your sketch book, snatching it up and carefully observing your current drawing. He was surprised to see the grotesque picture before him- thinking you would surely be the type to draw silly little comics or images of unique animals. 

He traced his lines over the haphazardly scrawled out words that decorated the background of the image. “ENTRANCE” in all capital letters was etched above the image of a slim woman with long double-braids. She was naked, and appeared to be covered in what appeared to be open wounds. Her body was contorted in different directions, and bones protruded through her twisted skin. A wide, clown-like grin was painted on her face, though she was depicted with tears in her bloodshot eyes. It appeared as though you had been working on the background of the image- the rough outlines of a stage could be seen behind the woman. 

Solomon blinked a few times before turning the page, now even more curious as to what things you had been drawing all this time. the next image was similar, showing a woman pinching her hips to the point of drawing blood while looking into a mirror where no reflection other than a hazy shadow was depicted. The next image after that was of a large bird picking the remaining meat off of a human skeleton. He was quite impressed with your skill, and remained shocked by the subject matter. He wouldn’t have ever guessed you’d be the type to draw body-horror, but he’d be lying if he said he didn’t enjoy the fact that you did. After all, he had an appreciation for more dark forms of art as well. 

Solomon continued flipping through the images before stopping on a familiar face- his own. 

He raised an eyebrow, trying to process what he was looking at. He was able to take in the familiar details enough to recognize himself, but the drawing seemed unfinished. The white of his hair was only half-colored, and one eye showed drastically more detail in the irises than the other. He found himself wondering what the intentions were behind the drawing.

He didn’t have time to ponder long, because just as quickly as he had turned to the page, the book was snatched out of his hands. Solomon turned to see the horrified expression on your face as you clutched the book against your chest. 

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?!” You snapped, your voice shaken with embarrassment. 

Solomon blinked a few times, trying to think of what to say. He could apologize, but he’d much rather razz you- especially considering he now fully believed you had a crush on him. He gave you a playful smirk. “I was curious. Can’t blame me, can you? And now I’m even more intrigued by that last one.” 

Your face drained of all color except a bright ruby blush. 

He gave a light chuckle, stepping closer to you. He brushed a strand of hair from your face, his tone suave as he spoke. “You know, all you had to do was ask me to model for you.” 

“I...You...” You stuttered, too flustered to even give a comeback. Your demure response only made Solomon more bold as he trailed his finger on your jawline. You shuddered at the touch, reeling back slightly before finally being able to speak properly. “Y-you could have just asked to see it. You didn’t have to snoop.” 

Solomon was taken aback by your words. After a moment, he collected himself and his suave demeanor returned. “Hmm, well then. I would like to see it.” 

You widened your eyes, staring at the sorcerer who seemed so confidently flirtatious. What has gotten into him today?

As you sheepishly hand him your sketch book, his smirk only grows. He flips open to the half-finished drawing you’d done of him, having given up on it temporarily when you couldn’t quite get the curve of his lips how you wanted. He gave a dramatic sigh, his eyes meeting yours.

“If only I knew how enamored you were with me sooner. I would have started making moves on you ages ago.” He scoffed, giving you a flirtatious wink. 

Your face grew hot at his words and you snapped your gaze away from him. Your heart beat rapidly- as if it would soon explode from your chest. 

 Solomon let out a deep laugh, pulling you close to him by the hips. “Relax now, I’m just teasing. Though- I would like you to accompany me on a date some time. I would love to hear about your inspirations for your artwork.” 

[a-casual-kpopfan]

Together Again? - Yves x Chuu

Genre: Horror inspired?

This was an older fic I wrote quite a while back so please, enjoy the cringe!

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

(Yves’ POV)

*Ring Ring*

I look down to my phone and see the caller ID. “S.K Real Estate.” I take a sigh and pick up the call. “This is Yves.”

“Yves, it’s Lip.” I hear the voice from my phone.

“Oh, Kim Lip, what’s the status on the property?” I ask as I get in my car to head to my office. “We were able to buy it off, mind taking a look before we book renovators?” Kim Lip asks of me, I look at the time on my car’s tablet screen.

*Sigh*

“Sure, send me the address.” I say as I strap on my seat belt. “Done, I’ll see you at lunch, okay?” Kim Lip says in a lighthearted voice. “Yes ma’am, I’ll see you at the office.” I hang up and start up the car, while pulling out of the driveway, the address Kim Lip sent was inputting in my GPS.

~~~~~

I pull up to a beaten down home, two floors high and supposedly a huge basement too. “After this gets fixed up, this should sell well.” I tell myself.

I come up to the front door and look around. “Never thought I would be back here.” I pull the key out of the lockbox hanging around the doorknob of the home. I pull the door open, making a loud creaking noise as the door gets pulled out longer.

“This brings back memories…”

I walk into the living room, everything here was all covered in cobwebs, beaten down and old.

I never thought Kim Lip could get this property off the bank. I look to a beaten down old couch, picturing me and my late parents.

A young me, watching movies with my parents.

“Eomma… Appa… I’m going to fix this place up.” A small tear comes from my eye, but I immediately wiped it. After a moment of reminiscing about the past, I move towards the stairs heading to the upper levels.

Each step I take up the stairs, a creak gets louder and louder with each step I take.

I reach the second floor and see an empty den area. Once again, I see a young self, playing with toys, using all the space with all the imagination in the world.

“Where has the days gone?”

The imagination disappeared as I make my way to the bedroom… My bedroom…

Once I open the room, seeing pink, white vibrant colors. Birds flying past the window.

A happy living.

All that faded away to a dead and grey surrounding, cobwebs reappearing. I take a big sigh and look around. “Nothing but a good remodeling would help this place.”

I turn around and my way to the stairs.

“You came back.”

I turn around as a I heard the voice. There was nothing but an empty room, closed window, and all.

“I finally found you.”

“Who’s there?!” I run to the closet door and open it to see nothing in here. “Must be my imagination.”

(3rd POV)

A dark shadowy figure appears behind Yves, floating closer behind her with each second passing. Yves so concentrated on the closest, swearing she heard someone speak to her… Like a young girl’s voice.

The dark figure’s hand was basically feeling Yves’ neck until...

*Ring ring*

“Hmm?” Yves turns around without any presence of a spirit being there, the dark shadow retreated to the darkness of the house.

“Yves! How’s the house?” Kim Lip’s voice comes yelling through the phone. The dark figure watching from the shadow starts to grin then to a devilish smile.

“Yves… It is you…”

The dark shadow returns to where it came from… A little house beneath…

(Yves’ POV)

“Everything is fine, it looks like it hasn’t been lived in, in years.” I tell Kim Lip as I walk out of the room, heading to the stairs. “Yeah, I don’t believe it’s been used for about 15 years now?” Kim Lip says…

“15 years? That’s around the – AH!”

As I took the last step, the floorboard gave out let me slip and fall on the ground, hitting my head in the process.

“YVES?! YVES?! SOOYOUNG?!” I can hear Kim Lip screeching over the phone. I get up slowly and grabbing my phone that’s not so far from me. “Yeah, I’m here.” I tell her while groaning from the pain.

“What happened?!” Kim Lip yells through the phone. “Yah, calm down. You’re screeching like a bird. It was just a faulty step on the staircase.” I say as I feel my head.

I pull my hand away from my head to see that I have blood running down. “Ah damn it Sooyoung…”

“Lip, I’ll see you later at the office. I’ll be leaving now.” I tell her as I walk out the front door and lock up. “Okay Yves, stay safe.” *Beep Beep*

The call ended and I walked to my car, once getting in I wipe up my head with some tissues.

“This going to leave a mark…”

~~~~~

*Later that day*

“Are you sure you can work?” Kim Lip asks me while wrapping my head with bandages in the washroom. “Yes, Kim Lip, I’ll be okay. If I go home early, my wife will be on my ass if I come home early.” I tell the blonde.

“Aaaaaand… Done.” Kim Lip finishes wrapping my head. “Thanks Lip…” I look up to her, she smiles back at me just nodding.

Once Kim Lip had packed up the first-aid kit, we head to our office.

“So, what did you think of the place?” Kim Lip says as she sits in her desk across from mine. “Not going to lie, the place is really beaten down, but I don’t think it’ll take long to rebuild the place.” I give Kim Lip a small smile.

“You know, there’s other homes in the city.” Kim Lip says giving me a pitiful look. “I know Lip, I know… I just really need this deal to go through.” Giving her a trying look.

“Okay Sooyoung, I’ll get a construction crew there tomorrow morning.” Kim Lip gets on her computer and starts doing her business. “Thank you, that means a lot.”

~~~The next morning~~~

I arrive at the house with the construction crew surrounding the area. Once I pulled up to the property, I was greeted with Kim Lip wearing a protective hat. “Good morning, Yves.” Kim Lip gives a smile while handing me a protective hat. “As you can see, it’s going to be quite a project to get this house up to code.”

I watch as some heavy machinery tear down a wall. “So basically, we have to get this place rebuilt from bottom up?” I ask in annoyance while drinking my morning coffee. “More or less. The only thing that’s really intact is the basement and a wine cellar.” Kim Lip brings me over to a table with the blueprint and floor plans.

“Wait there’s a wine cellar?” I ask Kim Lip. “Why don’t I remember there being a wine cellar?” Kim Lip then showed me the lower part of the blueprint. “Yes, it’s right here, but there’s a problem.” She brings me to the basement and shows me the door.

“It’s chained up.” I say as I stare at the chained door. “The works try to use a metal cutter but no luck, so we’ve come up with a more… Direct approach.” Kim Lip says with a little smirk. I give her a confused look, wondering what she has planned.

“What do you mean, direct?” I ask her.

“MA’AM, WE’RE ALL READY!” A worker yells out to Kim Lip. “Oh, perfect timing.” Kim Lip pulls me quite a distance away from the door and hid behind the doorway of the basement. “Why are we back here?” I ask the blonde.

I watch some construction men walk into the hall to the chained door and they seem to be setting…

“JUNGEUN, WHEN WERE CLEARED TO USE DYNAMITE CHARGES?!” I yell panicking, afraid what could happen to our jobs.

“Relax, I got it handled already.” She replies with a sly smirk.

“EVERYONE CLEAR OUT!” The men who walked in has already see the charges, I take cover behind Kim Lip.

“3!”

“2!”

“1!”

**BOOM**

Debris flew out of the hallway, shortly after the air started flying inside the corridor. “Damn, it must’ve been locked up for quite a while.” Kim Lip says as the air slowly dies down. “It should be safe enough to walk in now.” A construction worker tells us.

I follow in behind the worker with Kim Lip behind me.

(3rd POV)

“You found me…”

Yves whips her head around thinking someone is behind her. Yves sees nothing as Kim Lip and the other works inspect the wine cellar, nothing is unusual in room as there’s just some old wine bottles in there.

“Ma’am, there’s something in here.” One of the workers shine a flashlight over a dollhouse.

“Why is there a dollhouse here?” Yves goes up to it, feeling like something is calling her.

The closer Yves gotten to the dollhouse, whispers in her heads grown stronger.

“Sooyoung… Save me Sooyoung…”

“Save you? Where are you?”

“Come closer… I’m here…”

“Are you… In the dollhouse?”

“Yes Sooyoung, I’m inside.”

Yves walks closer to the dollhouse and sees a little doll in there.

A little penguin, beaten up and bloody. Kim Lip watching Yves the whole time, can feel a certain presence loom amongst them, Yves picks up the doll and can hear a voice loud and clearly.

“I have you once more!”

A voice yells out in Yves head.

“Yves!... YVES!... SOOYOUNG!” Kim Lip yells at the older one. “Huh, wha- what?” Yves comes back to reality, not realizing that she’s been speaking to a doll the past few minutes. “Do you want to go back outside?” Kim Lip asks Yves in worry that they’re starting to run out of fresh air.

“S-Sure… Hey, can you bring the dollhouse outside with us?” Yves asks a worker to bring out the house along with them while Yves stays attached with this doll in her hands.

Once Kim Lip, Yves and the workers came out of the basement, they all breathe in the fresh air considering how far inside they were in the wine cellar. “Ma’am, where do you want this?” The worker with the dollhouse asks.

“Just set it on the table please.” Yves tells the man, and he obeys.

“What’s up with this dollhouse being locked up in there?” Kim Lip asks as she inspects the miniature home. “I-I don’t know... There’s something about this thing...” Yves turns the doll over to the back, as she felt a tag on it.

“K-Kim Lip.” Yves says in shock, not believing what she’s seeing.

“What?” Kim Lip looks at the dolls back, where Yves is staring at. “W-What? What does it mean?” Kim Lip asks in the same shocking feeling Yves is experiencing.

The two’s vision both converge on the doll’s owner tag saying…

“Ha Sooyoung + Kim Jiwoo.”

~~~~ Time skips to the office ~~~~

(Yves’ POV)

“Do you have any idea why your doll house would be locked up like that?” Jinsoul, my fiancé asks me over the phone. “I don’t know where it came from honey, I don’t remember this at all.” I reply back, while holding this doll in my hand. “Well, I think we can figure it out later. Bring the house home tonight.” Jinsoul tells me.

“Okay babe, I’ll see you at home. I love you.”

“I love you too, don’t stress out too much.”

I just smile as I hang up the phone and continue my work for the day.

*Later that day in the office*

(3rd POV)

It was a normal day going forth, Kim Lip and Yves both planning how the new house will be built up. Everyone else in the office minding their own business…

Well almost everyone…

The strange figure slowly striding through the halls, only speaking out one name.

“Sooyoung… Sooyoung…”

The figure kept calling out, as the spirit passes, all lights and electronics start going haywire. The spirit strides closer to Yves and Kim Lip’s office, as she closes in the building loses all power.

“Aish, what a time for a power outage.” Kim Lip curses at the inconvenience as her and Yves were still looking over the floor plans.

As the shadowy figure came closer to the door, Yves can feel something odd looming around her. “I’m going to check outside, you coming?” Kim Lip says as she reaches for the doorknob, suddenly a feeling of fear shook Yves in her core, starting to panic as Kim Lip opens the door.

“Kim Lip wait!!” Yves yells out and lunges for the door but before she could reach Kim Lip, the door has already been opened by Kim Lip.

“What is it?” Kim Lip asks as Yves freezes in her spot, seeing there’s nothing beyond the door or anything looming in the hallway. “Yves?” Kim Lip calls the older girl once more. “H-Huh? Oh, it’s nothing...” Yves replies back. Kim Lip shrugs it off and goes on to check the other offices to see what’s going on with the power.

Yves stays in her shared office, looking out the window. The view confuses Yves as the rest of the city’s power it completely fine. “Why is it just our building? The whole block would’ve lost power...” Yves says to herself while looking around if there’s anything wrong with the power lines, but nothing seems to be visibly wrong on the outside.

“Sooyoung!!!”

As Yves turns around, a shadowy figure leap at her. As the figure and Yves come in contact with each other, Yves eyes go completely black before fainting and laying on the floor.

(Kim Lip’s POV)

As I continue walking down the hallway, the power sudden has come back. I look up the ceiling lights disbelieving that it was freak power outage.

*Smash*

A smashing sound comes at the end of hall, in the direction of mine and Yves’ office is at. I go running the hall in worries of the worst possible scenario. “Yves?!” I call her name out as I continue running down the hall.

As I come reach the doorway of the office, I go into a panic as I see a broken coffee mug and a passed-out Yves on the floor. “Shit, shit, shit!” I run over to her body, checking her pulse and for any bleeding.

“She’s breathing, but this can’t be okay.” I go over to my phone on the desk, as I hear the line available, I dial 911.

“911, what’s your emergency?”

~~~~~

“Thank you for calling the paramedics, Jungeun.” Yves’ fiancé Jinsoul says to me. “Anything for my best friends.” I give a weak smile at her as we both drink some coffee in their home. “Do you have any idea of what happened?” Jinsoul asks worriedly. I shake my head in response.

“I left to go check out why the power had gone out, once the power came back on, I found Yves on the floor passed out.” I tell Jinsoul, in a guilty tone. Jinsoul noticed and she laid her hand on mine. “Don’t feel guilty, Jungeun. You did the right thing, and no one had any idea this could happen.” Jinsoul tried to comfort me.

After a moment, we heard crashing from upstairs. Jinsoul and I looked at each other and ran up the stairs to their bedroom. As we open the door, Jinsoul and I see a horrific hovering over Yves’ unconscious body.

“GET AWAY FROM HER!” Jinsoul yells out, charging right at the bloody shadow.

“YOU DON’T DESERVE HER!”

The shadow charged back at Jinsoul, instantly overpowering her, and pinning Jinsoul to the wall. The shadow slowly started taking form, of a.... A woman? I stood in fear, looking around for anything to help Jinsoul. Without thinking, I go and charge the shadow.

“So weak.”

The figure let go of Jinsoul and came charging at me cause the shadow to pin me to the floor. One foot on my left hand, her hand on my right and her free hand around my neck.

“You don’t deserve Sooyoung.”

The shadow speaks of Yves’ real name. The shadow’s face became more visible.

“THE DOLL!”

“J-Ji.” I try to speak out the name I read on that cursed doll!

As I start losing consciousness, something came crashing over which distracted her long enough to loosen her grip on my neck.

“JIWOO!”

The shadow comes in shock, suddenly rolling off me holding her head in pain.

“HOW?!”

The shadow screams out, with blood coming out of her eyes and mouth. Jinsoul runs over to me and helps me up. I put my hand in my pocket and grab the doll I took from the office.

“KIM JIWOO!”

The shadow screams louder, almost deafening us.

“I’LL MAKE YOU REGRET THAT.”

The shadow, we shall name Jiwoo has disappeared from our sight. Jinsoul and I collapsing on the ground due from the stress we just experienced. Both of us breathing so heavily, only to be interrupted by sudden coughing.

Both of us look up to Yves’ gaining consciousness. “SOOYOUNG!” Jinsoul runs towards her and stands by her side, I rush over to the other side of the bed.

“J-Jinsoul?” Yves comes to be, seeing that Jinsoul and I are by her sides. “Wha-What happened?” Yves sits up looking confused. “I took you home Yves, I had to call the paramedics bring you home... But now I see it’s not a medical issue.” I say worriedly... Jinsoul giving me the same look.

“What do you mean?” Yves asked, Jinsoul took her hand and gave her a worried look. “W-We experienced a spirit... Possibly a demon haunting you...” Yves looked shocked.

“H... Haha.... Very funny you two...” Yves looked traumatized, as if she doesn’t believe the two of us. “Hahahahahaha, I know this is a prank.” Yves laughs out like a sociopath. Both of us not giving in to her insanity. “I-I’m sorry love... This isn’t a joke...” Jinsoul speaks out while tearing up.

“I think we need some help. I’ll be back.” I say as I head to the door.

“Wait, Jungeun!” Jinsoul is turned to me, there’s a scared look on her face and I can probably guess why. I take a sigh and just nodded.

“I’ll make a call here if you two don’t mind?” I ask and of course, both shook their heads.

I dial in a few numbers to hear a familiar voice...

“JUNGUEN!! I WAS WONDERING WHEN YOU WERE GOING TO CALL!”

I flinch as I hear the shouting through my phone.

“Yeah, yeah I missed you too Haseul... But this isn’t a matter of catching up...”

“...”

“It’s serious.”

“How soon?”

“Now.”

~~~~~

“Hi, my name is Jo Haseul! I’m a researcher and detective of demonology.” Haseul comes inside shaking hands with Yves and Jinsoul. After shaking their hands, Haseul locked eyes with me. “Jungeun!!” She comes running at me with a hug. “Oof, hello to you Haseul.” I gave a friendly hug back as she starts squeezing the life out of me.

“HASEUL!!!”

The friendly banter stopped as we hear shouting from outside to see an angry pink haired girl carrying a bunch of equipment and bags, along with two other girls. “Ahhh! I’m so sorry Gahei!”

Haseul and I come out to help the poor girls Haseul left outside.

After a few minutes, Haseul, Yves, Jinsoul and I are sat at the table with the 3 other girls setting up various equipment. Jinsoul and I explained what happened tonight and to our surprise, Haseul isn’t shocked.

“Okay so, Yves. You are not haunted.” Haseul says as she goes through a notebook, we all take a sigh of relief thinking not much worse is happening. “Wait, if I’m not haunted, then why are the others setting up all these equipment?” Yves asked while looking at the three girls wiring up everything.

“Like I said, you aren’t being haunted but there’s a certain spirit that has an attachment to you and from what I hear and that the spirit was physically able to come into the human world, it’s been a long and strong attachment.” Haseul explains further.

“Haseul, we’re done.” 3 girls come into the dining room joining us. “Ah yes, Yves, Jinsoul, Jungeun. These are my partners, Hyeju, Chaewon and Gahei.” Haseul pointed them out to us, Jinsoul, Yves and I stand up and bow in respect.

“You can call me Vivi.” The pink haired woman smiled at us.

“You can call me Gowon, and you can call her Olivia.” The short, brown-haired girl says, while the girl with the black hair smiles and nods at us.

As the 6 of us sit at the table, I broke the silence. “How do you 4 know each other?”

“Oh uhm... Haseul and I are married.” Vivi holds up her left hand with a ring, I look over at Haseul’s hand and it also has a ring. “Eh?! Why didn’t you tell me!” I stand up and yell at Haseul. “Hahaha, you’re the one who never called.” She replies, I stubbornly sit back down but staring at Haseul.

As the rest of the table laughs, Jinsoul asks about Gowon and Olivia.

“Olivia and I worked at a research facility to use cameras and infrared imaging.” Gowon explains. “That’s right.” Olivia says with a slight nod. “Oh, I see... That’s why you guys set up all these cameras.” Yves says while they nodded.

“We’re going to be staying with you guys here, Jungeun you’re welcomed to stay or to go home.” I look over to Yves and Jinsoul then back to Haseul. “No, I’ll be staying. My best friends need all the support.” I gave Jinsoul and Yves an assuring smile.

Haseul nods in agreement. “But I need to get some fresh clothes.” I say, getting a small giggle out from everyone. “I think I have some extra sweats for you.” Jinsoul says getting up from the table.

I went on and followed her.

~~~~~

[4:30am]

(Jinsoul’s POV)

*A girl laughing*

I shot up from my sleep, thinking I heard someone in the room. I look around and I see nothing in my shared room with Sooyoung, that would be out of the ordinary. I get up from my bed, grabbed my robe and slip on my slippers. I felt the bed move a bit, “Is something wrong Soul?” I looked back to see her trying to find my hand.

I couldn’t help but smile of how much of a baby she still is. I lean back a bit to reach my hand out to hers. “Nothing baby, I just have to use the washroom.” Sooyoung just hums and flips over resulting in her falling back asleep immediately. “Aish, this woman.” I giggle a little bit as I get up from the bed and walk out of the room quietly.

I slowly step down the stairs, not trying to wake up anyone. Vivi and Haseul are soundly asleep on the air mattress in the middle of the living room, Gowon softly snoring on the couch. The one I don’t seem to find is Olivia, I shrugged it off and make my way to the kitchen.

I flip on the dimmed down light in the kitchen in attempt to not wake anyone with the brightness. I make way to the fridge to fetch myself some water, after pouring myself a glass I take a look on the clock on the wall.

I then realized something was off with the house...

It’s insanely silent. None of the clocks are ticking. I slowly walk up to the clock on the wall, taking a better look at the time.

3:07am.

“But why?” I ask myself as I take down the clock. As I take a deep look, I feel something very off in the reflection.

I saw a pair of eyes and a smile appear in the glass, I dropped the clock on the floor as I screamed, in results of waking everyone up and the smashing of glass all over the kitchen floor.

(3rd POV)

Everyone awoke from their sleep, shocked of hearing Jinsoul’s scream from the kitchen. On instinct, Yves immediately jumped out of bed and ran her way to the kitchen seeing Jinsoul scared, with Haseul, Vivi and Gowon around her.

“Baby, what happened?” Yves got on her knees in front of Jinsoul, while Jinsoul lunged at her engulfing Yves in a hug out of fear. “Shh... Shh... I’m here now...” Yves is trying to comfort the crying Jinsoul.

After a few minutes, Jinsoul had calmed down.

With Yves and Jinsoul still sitting on the kitchen floor, Haseul breaks the silence. “Jinsoul, what did you see?” Jinsoul then pulls away from Yves body and stands back up along with Yves.

“I saw.... I saw it smiling at me in the glass...” Everyone in the room seemed shocked. “A-Are you sure it was... That?” Kim Lip asks Jinsoul, the latter nodded.

“I can back that up.” Olivia coming out of nowhere. “Jesus Hyeju, you scared me.” Gowon slaps Olivia lightly. “Sorry, I was in the van outside.” Olivia explains as she opens up her laptop.

“Oh, that’s where you’ve been?” Jinsoul says, with Olivia nodding. “I was monitoring any activity through the night.” The group of girls gather around Olivia as she sets her laptop on the dining room table. “This is what we see in real time.”

A regular video of Jinsoul going up to the clock, looking into and dropping it plays. Kim Lip stifles a laugh, Jinsoul nudging her with a death glare. “Sorry, you looked funny being scared.” Kim Lip apologizes, but Yves chimes in. “Agreed.” Kim Lip then raises her hand up without looking at Yves, as the latter high fives it in the same manner leaving both smirking while Jinsoul tells Olivia to continue.

“This is what was caught in our infrared sensor camera.” Olivia then changes the video to a grainy green and black imagine.

“AHHH.”

Jinsoul drops down to her feet and backs her wait up the wall. Everyone just in as much shock as Jinsoul.

“Th... That can’t be...” Yves says in shock of the image that Olivia paused...

The image is the shadow of Jiwoo caressing Jinsoul’s face as Jinsoul stares into the clock.

“W-What was the time of the video?” Yves asks. “4:57am” Olivia replies, Yves then looks at the wall clock in the dining room, everyone following suite.

Hands are stuck at 3:07am.

“H-Haseul?” Kim Lip looks over at the older woman. “GaHei, please grab the file in the van listed as K.J-H.S.” Haseul says in a serious tone, Vivi nodded as she runs out to get the file and, in a few moments Vivi hands the files to Haseul.

“Sooyoung, what’s your last name?”

“Jung.” Yves replies to the sudden question, but Haseul shakes her head. “Your maiden name please.” Yves then tells Haseul her name. “Ha Sooyoung.”

Haseul then opens the file showing a photo of a younger Yves and a familiar child next to her. “N-No. That c-can’t be!” Yves then slams her hands on the table, breathing heavily. Kim Lip’s eyes widen as she gulfs down the saliva in her throat.

“I-I’ll be right back...” Kim Lip says as she slowly walks to the front door.

In the meantime, Yves picks up Jinsoul from the floor calming her down, Gowon and Vivi cleans up the broken clock and shattered glass in the kitchen. Olivia searches the cameras trying to find the root of the Jiwoo ghost, Haseul reading through the file of Yves.

*BAM*

Kim Lip dumps the dollhouse onto the table.

“Will this help?” Kim Lip asks as she also pulls out the Jiwoo doll out of her pocket and places it in front of the house.

Haseul shocked as it is the exact same thing in the photograph with Sooyoung and Jiwoo. “Yes Jungeun, I think this should help a lot.”

Yves then looks at the dollhouse, giving it a deep glare. Jinsoul notices the look on her face and palms her cheek. “Baby it’s okay, we’ll get through this.” Yves turns to Jinsoul and gives her a smile.

“Okay, everyone! Gather into a circle.” Haseul calls everyone and brings them into the living room, everyone sitting on the floor in a circle surrounding the dollhouse and doll.

“Gahei, you can start.” Haseul directed. “Hyeju, Chaewon, please have this documented.” Everyone in the crew nodded. Both Gowon and Olivia leave the circle, Gowon pulling out a notepad and pen as Olivia sets up her laptop and activating live feed of the infrared cameras.

As the 5 girls left tighten up the circle, Vivi directs everyone to hold each other’s hands.

Vivi – Haseul – Yves – Jinsoul – Kim Lip

“I summon the spirit of Kim Jiwoo. I demand your presence!” Vivi yells out.

For a moment nothing responds...

But the moment after, a slight breeze goes by everyone and is clearly noticeable.

Vivi opens her eyes, but the eyeballs have rolled back only showing the whites. Vivi then starts mumbling out gibberish but sudden stops and closes her eyes.

“What do you want with me human. Why was I summoned?!” A different voice came out of Vivi’s mouth, clearly a woman but distorted.

“Why do you haunt this couple?” Haseul asks.

“Why? Why?! WHY?! AHAHAHAHAH. I deserve to be with Sooyoung. Not this bitch of a woman.” Vivi opens her eyes but the color in her pupils have changed to a bright peach.

“But why did you look at Jinsoul the way you did.” Haseul asks another.

Vivi’s head then tilts to the left, her mouth forming a large smirk, her eyes staring straight into Jinsoul’s eyes. “I was... Examining my human vessel.” The voice of Jiwoo says, leading up to a maniacal laughter.

As the laughing slows down and stops, the happy look that was on Vivi’s face drops to a frown. “You think you’re better than me... I know your dirty secrets you bitch. ALL OF YOU!”

Vivi’s face then looks at Haseul. “You woman! Married to this vessel! You enjoy this don’t you, seeing your wife’s body move around like this, hearing her voice like this, it turns you on.” The smirk returns on Vivi’s face.

Haseul was unphased by the comments. Haseul looks straight into the cursed peach-colored eyes. “What is your connection to Sooyoung.” Haseul asks in a stern voice.

Vivi’s turns to Yves and the two locked eyes, Vivi with a frown and the look of desperation while Yves shows seriousness, wanting to be in peace with Jinsoul.

“I love her, she loves me back. Ever since I died.... No... Ever since my family killed me for loving Sooyoung, that very same love kept me in this world...”

“That’s not love! You’re obsessed!” Jinsoul snapped and screamed at the spirit.

“I Am Not WOmAN!” The demonic distortion in the voice growls louder with those words

“I had confessed to Sooyoung when we were children, she accepted my feelings but when her parents found out, she was taken from me. I was taken from her. I was abused by my parents to a point they killed me for being gay.” The voice in Vivi explains the story.

Yves’ eyes widen as suppressed memories are flooding her brain.

“C.... Ch.... Chuu?” Was the only word that Yves can muster up. “Yes love, that’s me.” Vivi’s lips form a great smile.

“N-No! She must be lying, Sooyoung! This is a ghost!” Jinsoul tries to convince Yves that this was nothing but a demonic spirit haunting them, but little did anyone know this spirit was Yves’ childhood best friend that she missed so much.

“SHUT UP YOU BITCH!” The voice in Vivi screams out. “I-I can’t... I don’t understand...” Yves’s face drops down, staring at the floor.

“Why did you only show up now?” Kim Lip takes a turn with a demon. “That dollhouse and doll... I used that doll as a vessel to keep my active in this world, as years went by, I couldn’t move to anywhere else.... Until the seal broke...”

Kim Lip then remembers the chained door that her team demolished...

“I tried reaching Sooyoung before... But her parents interfered...” The possessed Vivi then stops talking and stares straight at Jinsoul. “I think that’s enough speaking, let’s take go for a walk.” Vivi’s body then collapse, simultaneously Jinsoul goes unconscious. The circle is broken, the 3 girls remaining go into a panic.

“Soul!? Jinsoul?! Jung Jinsoul!!” Yves kept crying her name out, but to no avail Jinsoul. The tears start running from Yves eyes, the panic and stress had reached an all-time high for Yves.

Kim Lip runs to the phone and immediately calls 911.

“Jinsoul...... Please don’t leave me....” Yves says quietly sobbing in her tears. Haseul is there comforting Yves, while Olivia and Gowon tend to Vivi who comes to shortly.

~~~~~

Many hours later. [2:00pm]

(Yves’ POV)

Kim Lip and I are sitting in the designated waiting area in the hospital that Jinsoul is being tended at. A doctor came up to us, “Mrs. Jung Sooyoung?” I immediately shot up from my chair, Kim Lip standing by me.

“Yes, that’s me.” The doctor goes through his clipboard and lets out a heavy sigh. “Well Mrs. Jung, your wife is breathing and alive. It seems she has fallen into a sleep induced coma. We don’t have any estimate how long this could be. But until told otherwise, Mrs. Jung Jinsoul is to be discharged from the hospital although with life support equipment which will be set up by one of our professionals.”

A sigh of relief came out of my mouth, same as Kim Lip. “Thank you, Dr. Soel.” The doctor nodded and went his way inside.

“This is all my fault.” Kim Lip says, about to break into tears. I shake my head and give her a hug. “None of us knew what was going to be behind that door, if anything I would’ve had it blown up as well.” I give her a hug, able to calm her down.

“Let’s go get Jinsoul.” I break the hug and give a sedimental smile to Kim Lip, she gives me the same and nod.

After a couple hours, Kim Lip and I come back home to Haseul and the others. Jinsoul is all set up in the bedroom, Haseul and Vivi had locked up the doll set in a sealed closet covered with bible pages and had a priest bless in hopes it stops any spirit to come out.

As the day went on with no certain events, we’re all gathered at the dining table having tea and coffee. Kim Lip and I explained what the doctor said, everyone was relieved though Haseul has a theory.

“I think Jiwoo took her to the spirit world.” Haseul says, most of us being in complete shock in. “That’s absurd! The shock of the ritual was probably too much for Jinsoul causing her to pass out like that.” I snapped at the idea that a ghost from my past is affect me now.

I look around at everyone, no one is saying anything.

“I don’t think she’s wrong Yves...” Kim Lip breaks the silence at the table. I shake my head in denial. I don’t believe this. “That’s impossible! If she’s been taken, why is her body still here and alive?!” I try to reason out every possibility.

“Her body may be alive, but her spirit isn’t here, I don’t feel it present in this world.” Vivi comes out and tells me. I stand up from my chair, slamming my hands on the table.

“How am I supposed to get my wife back then?!” The tears start coming out, I am distraught and in a panic.

“I can call a friend.” Haseul stands up from the table and walks out of the dining room dialing on her cell phone.

“Everything is going to be Yves.” Gowon comes over and puts her hand on my shoulder. Olivia and Vivi give me assuring smiles.

“I’ll be here till everything is over Yves.” I look over and Kim Lip giving me a determined face while holding on my hand on the table.

I look at everyone and come into realization of how I must look right now.

“I-I... Thank you everyone for helping me and Jinsoul.”

“This is our job Yves, if anyone can figure this out, it’ll be Haseul.” Vivi says as she gets up and walks around the table. As Vivi came around to me and gave me a hug.

Before I knew it, everyone came around and joined in a group hug.

“Okay, she’ll be here in a – Oh... Group hug?” Haseul walked in a middle of this wholesome, yet embarrassing moment, we didn’t move an inch but just stare at her.

“WITHOUT ME?!” Haseul came running towards join in our hug, all of us laughing and having a good time.

~~~~~

[11:00pm]

*Ding Dong*

I hear the doorbell and by instinct I immediately check through the peephole, but I don’t see anyone. I know everyone is inside the house. “I might be going crazy.” I say to myself.

“Who was that?” Kim Lip yells from the living room. “I don’t know, I didn’t see anyone.” I reply as I walk back into the living room.

*Ding Dong*

I walk back to the door, once again looking through the peephole. No one, again.

“Ugh, am I really going crazy.” I say to myself. “Kim Lip, did you hear the doorbell?” I ask her, she comes to the hall for the front door looking at me like I’m crazy. “Yeah, I heard it, why?” Kim Lip says as she walks up to the door. “Go look through the peephole.” I step aside to let her look through it.

“There’s no one there.” Kim Lip tells me, I nodded and tell her. “Yeah, I know.” Kim Lip steps away from the door and we’re both confused to what’s ringing the doorbell. “Maybe the neighbors are pulling a prank?” She suggests.

*BANG, BANG, BANG*

“AHHHHHHH!”

Kim Lip and I essentially grab each other and backed up away from the door.

“Hey, what’s with the screaming?” Haseul appears out of the doorway from the dining room.

“I-I think there’s a ghost outside.” I tell Haseul, she looks at both of us like we belong in insane asylums. “A ghost? Gahei! Do you feel anything weird?” Haseul leans in the dining room and yells in the dining room.

“Nothing other than the doll set, why?” Vivi yells back to Haseul. “Nothing babe, I’m just checking on something!” Haseul goes back to us and walks up to the door. “What’s been happening?” She asks both Kim Lip and I as we’re still holding each other.

“The doorbell rang twice, then I look through the peephole and I saw nothing.” I tell Haseul and she seems to be trying to hold in her laughter. “How tall is the peephole?” Haseul laughs out, I look at her confused and had let go of Kim Lip. “About 160cm, why?”

“AHAHAHAHAHA, sounds about right.” Haseul laughs out and unlocks the door at the same time. “WAIT, HASEUL, NO!”

Before I was able to reach the door, Haseul opened it wide open to reveal... A very short person.

“YEOJIN!”

“HASEUL!”

I watch as the short person and Haseul jump at each other for a large hug. “Thank you for coming on short notice.” Haseul thanks the short person, assuming her name is Yeojin?

“Anything for you, I owe you so much anyways.” Yeojin gives a cheeky smile to Haseul. “Come in and meet everyone else.” Haseul lets her in, but Kim Lip and I are still in shock.

Haseul closes the door and turns to us with Yeojin beside her. “Ah this is Yves and back there is Kim Lip, you two this is Im Yeojin. One of my old partners.” Kim Lip and I bow in respect and introduce ourselves to her.

“Now, let’s get you caught up with everything.” Haseul tells Yeojin as the shorter one nods and is lead to the dining room with Haseul. Kim Lip and I look at each in very confused looks, she just ended up shrugging and leaving for the dining room.

“How did I not see her though.” I ask myself in confusion.

[1:00am]

Everything was explained to Yeojin, Kim Lip and I got more acquainted with her and as for the other girls, seems like they all know each other from some point.

“So Yeojin, what is it that you exactly do?” Kim Lip asks, I lean in a little closer to the table as I too am interested how she would help us.

“As Haseul told me, Jinsoul may have taken by Jiwoo’s spirit. Correct?”

Kim Lip and I nodded.

“With given consent of course, I can send Yves into the spirit world and have her retrieve Jinsoul and simultaneously Haseul and Vivi will seal up the doll set with Jiwoo’s spirit attached to it.”

“And how will it be sealed?” I ask them. “We burn it, but we need to burn the item in your possession that remains the last lifeline for Jiwoo.” Haseul explains but I look at her confused. “What do you mean, I don’t have anything from her.” I reply, but Haseul shakes her head and pulls a photo from the file.

My eyes widen, giving me a pure shock. “That’s not from her! That’s a gift from my parents when I was born!” I yell at Haseul, but once more, Haseul shakes her head. “This is an item from Jiwoo when you were kids before she...” Haseul didn’t finish her sentence but puts her head down.

“Yves... Sooyoung, your parents were helped by my...

Mother.”

Haseul looks up and stares at me dead in the eyes. “W.... What do you mean?”

Haseul opens the file and gives me a report of it.

“October 22, 2015.

The Ha family has been experiencing paranormal activities within the household.

October 23, 2015.

It has come to my attention that the Ha family is being haunted by a single spirit, it is believed to be a little girl as both Mr. and Mrs. Ha can hear a little girl’s giggling approximately from 3:00am to 5:00am.

October 24, 2015.

All manual, hand clocks stop at the time of 3:07am every night for the past week.

Have called in imaging specialists who research in demonology.

October 27, 2015.

It has been 3 days since last entry, imaging reports found that the spirit originates from a doll set in the household basement. One of a little girl with red hair, one of the daughter of the Ha’s.

The plan is for such situation is capture and containment as destroying the items may possibly release the spirit having no bounds to these objects.

Best solution is to separate the two dolls, suppressed the daughter’s memory of meeting Kim Jiwoo.

May we hope for the best.

October 30, 2015.

The plan was executed and ended successful.

The Ha family has moved to a new home, the doll set was sealed behind stone doors that was sealed by chains that splashed with holy water. Took 3 priests to securely feel comfortable that the doll won’t harm them.”

Upon reading the reports, seeing the photos. My head starts hurting.

“Ah shit.” My head is starting to pound harder and harder. I grab my head with both hands, the pain started becoming unbearable.

Suddenly my vision became black.

[11:00am]

I wake up with a cold towel on my head, I look around to find myself in the living room.

Moments after I wake up, I see Kim Lip come in the room with two mugs of I presume coffee.

“Oh, you’re finally awake.” Kim Lip gives me a smile, placing the mugs on the table and removing the towel on my head. I thank her and sit up. Kim Lip sits next to me and hands me my coffee.

I hear no one else in the house as I take a sip of coffee. “Where is everyone else?” I ask her, Kim Lip took a sip of her coffee. “They’re at the property... Preparing...” Kim Lip says putting both of hands around the coffee mug and putting it down near lap.

“I see... I guess we have to go too.”

(Jinsoul’s POV)

[Time Unknown]

“Ugh, my head.” I sit up but kept my eyes closed, I move my hands up, but a sudden feeling came around my wrist.

“Wha-What?” I open my eyes and I noticed that my arms and legs are chained to the ground. “Soo-Sooyoung! This isn’t funny!” I look around the room and realized it isn’t our room...

This is a bedroom, seemingly styled by a little girl. Everything is...

“Peach?”

I look around the room, everything is in the same shade of peach, except there’s a singular flower... A rose... In burgundy?

For a moment, I felt a cold breeze, but I was indoors.

“You’re finally awake.”

I look around the room to not see anything or anyone in here, until I stopped and looked at the mirror on the wall. A reflection of Jiwoo came to be, she smiled at me and before I knew it, Jiwoo flashed from the mirror to in front of my face.

I was left speechless, what does this thing want with me.

Jiwoo stood there and examined my face.

“Why did you take me here?” I ask her, Jiwoo moved back slight and gave me a creepy grin.

“Because I know she’ll come after you.”

“No!” I tried getting up from the bed, forgetting I was shackled to the bed. “Ah, shit.” I fell back on the bed but with stinging pains in both my wrist. “Hehe, nice try girly. I will end up with Sooyoung and we’ll live happily.” Jiwoo laughed but gave me a dead serious face.

“She’ll never! You’ll be left here all alone once again!” I scream out at her, leaving Jiwoo with a face of disgust. “Humans... So... Pathetic.” Jiwoo said and snapped her fingers, summoning a shadow and a moment after, everything blacked out.

(Yves’s POV)

Kim Lip and I pull up in Kim Lip’s car at the bought property... My old home. Something felt different after stepping out of the car. “Is it me or does feel...” I began to ask.

“Cold?” Kim Lip finishes the sentence, I look at her and nod.

“It’s the middle of Spring but the feeling gives me chill.” I say as Kim Lip, and I walk in the house. The two of us walk into the old home to see Olivia and Gowon setting up the cameras and laptops, assuming for monitoring purposes. Vivi, Haseul and Yeojin are all discussing something.

“Ah Yves, did you bring what I asked?” Haseul stands up looking at me. I nod my head and bring out the item from my bag.

I pull out a swan plushie from my bag.

“Good, shall we get started?” Vivi asks all of us, nodding in reply.

I put my swan next to the penguin in the doll house. “Good, now go sit down Yves.” Yeojin points me to a chair in the center of the room, I went ahead and sat down and leaned back. “Just want to ask one more time, you’re willing to go through with this?” Yeojin asks me.

“Yes, of course. She’s my wife, I have to go in.” I tell her with a determined look. Yeojin gives me a nod and calls over Haseul and Vivi.

“Okay Yves, we’re going to start the process. Hyeju and Chaewon had set up cameras monitoring the house in case a spirit sees the free real estate.” Haseul says with a little wink trying to lighten up the mood.

“With you being in the spirit world, it leaves a bridge open to the undead and the real world. Don’t take longer than you would need.” Vivi warns me, I nod. “I’ll be as fast as I can.” I tell the three girls.

Kim Lip comes up to me side and grabs my hand. “Come back alive and I’ll get you an iced americano.” I giggle a little bit then I ask her. “What if I don’t?” She laughs at my reply. “I guess I’ll have to partner with that Jeon Heejin at work.”

I gasp. “Wow, you already had a replacement in mind?” Kim Lip gives me a half smile and smirk. “Come back alive and no one needs to be replaced.” I give her the same smile and nodded. “I’ll be right back.”

I turn back to Vivi, Haseul and Yeojin.

“Ready?” Yeojin asks me.

“I’m ready.”

“Okay, let back and close your eyes.”

I lean back and close my eyes, feeling Yeojin holding my head with her hand.

“Listen to our voices when you’re there.”

...

I open my eyes and I look around and it’s nothing but fog.

“Yeojin?... Vivi?... Kim Lip?” I call out, no one to be around or to hear me. “This must be the spirit world.” Some fog cleared up around me, revealing in front of me a gas lantern meant for me to use while wandering.

I hesitantly pick the lantern up and shines a path for me. “This must be from Yeojin and them.” I say to myself with a little smile. I started walking up the path...

The fog just seems endless, it felt like I’ve been walking for hours.

The wall of fog seems to be ending... The lantern’s light is getting strong, I seem to be coming to the end of the fog...

I exit the fog and I find myself at a familiar place...

The house where all this started.

“So, everything is tied to here... All where a lie started...”

I walk along the path the fog shows me, as I kept walking closer and closer to the entrance, I felt something here... Something cold...

As before I open the doorknob a snowflake lands on my hand.

I look up to the clouds in this endless plain of fog. “Why is it snowing now?” I ask myself, although I dismiss it and enter the house. I step in and it’s like how it was left when I was a child except...

There’s no color.

It’s like all the color of the house has been sucked out of this place, everything is all black and white.

Where do I go now?

I look down to my feet, there’s a trail of ice... Almost like it’s leading me somewhere. I didn’t like the feeling, but I had to.

I follow the icy trail, leading me to a familiar place.

The basement where Kim Lip and I first found the doll set, although the chained door is not here... It’s been replaced by a glowing red door.

“Jinsoul, I’m coming!” I bust open the door and everything in this place is peach?

But to my relief, I see a familiar person in the corner.

“Jinsoul!!”

I drop the lantern to the ground and run over to Jinsoul, seeing that she’s chained to the walls.

“Jinsoul! Wake up!”

I hold her cheeks and shake her shoulders, in a moment Jinsoul gained consciousness.

“So... Sooyoung?” Jinsoul sounds groggy, she sounds terrible. “Baby, it’s me, I’m here!” I start to tear up, being so worried about her. “How... Did you get here?” Jinsoul asks me, as I try to unlock the chains, but every time I thought them it starts freezing my hands.

“Ugh how can I get her out?” I struggle with thinking what I can do to get her out. Jinsoul passes out once again, I can’t imagine how she feels being taken like this and stuck here.

“Sooyoung.”

I turn around hearing a voice calling my name.

“Jiwoo.” I respond to her appearing to me.

“So, you remember me?” Jiwoo asks me, I hesitate but I nod. “I remember everything Jiwoo... Chuu... My childhood... Our childhood... What happened?” I started tearing up, feeling like I lost so much in the past.

“Our families happened... My family abandoned me once they found out that I loved you Sooyoung, which lead them to telling your family that I was obsessed with you.” Jiwoo tells me about what happened in my covered up past with her.

“What was I to you Jiwoo?” I ask her angrily.

“I... I love you Sooyoung, I wanted to do everything with you.” Jiwoo tells me in a sad tone. I start walking closer to Jiwoo, I don’t know what’s going on with me, but I want to get close to her.

“I-I’m sorry Jiwoo.” I start tearing up more, getting closer to the spirit of Jiwoo.

The memories of us playing as kids.

The memories of loving her in my young life.

“I know you lived a happy life Sooyoung... I’m sorry for having to resort to this... I just wanted to talk in private.” Jiwoo says looking away from, beginning to cry.

This empty feeling, the dissatisfaction I’ve been feeling... The feeling of needing something... Someone...

“Jiwoo.”

“What?”

Before she can come to realization how close I was, I engulfed her in a hug. I can feel the shock in her body... Oddly enough, feeling a heartbeat. After a moment, she grabs me into a hug as well.

I can hear her crying.

I can feel her tears.

I can feel her love for me... She can feel my love for her.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t live my life with you...” I tell her.

We break the hug, and she nods. “I know Sooyoung... You’re grown up now.” Jiwoo tells me, she snaps her fingers and the chains around Jinsoul disappear.

I look at her body and run towards it. I hug Jinsoul’s unconscious body and feeling relieved.

But...

“Jiwoo... You deserve a life too, it wasn’t fair.”

“Ridiculous Sooyoung... I can’t come back from the dead.”

I get up away from Jinsoul and walk back to Jiwoo.

Before Jiwoo can say or do anything, I do the unthinkable.

I grab her face and kiss her.

In a moment of shock, Jiwoo took a second to register the action and kissed back. Slipping her arms around behind me as I put my hands on her cheeks.

I start crying, realizing this is the person who I yearned for, to love and to be loved by... But she was taken away from me by her parents, covered up by my parents...

I could’ve searched for her, I would’ve and taken her.

We break the kiss, and she only stares at my crying face.

“I suppose this is goodbye?” Jiwoo asks me.

I look down and think....

I look back up to her. “This is the hardest thing I ever had to do...”

....

I gasp for air, jumping from the chair.

“Chaewon, Jungeun now!” I hear Haseul yell out, I watch Gowon and Kim Lip oil and torch the doll set with the penguin and swan in it.

I start crying watching the whole thing go up into flames and before I knew it, it all became ashes. After the incineration of the doll set, Kim Lip comes running to me and hugging me.

“You came back!” Kim Lip yells out, almost sounding like she’s crying. I try to calm her down hugging her back and patting her back. “Hey, it was the iced americano that kept me alive.” I say laughing, causing the room to laugh.

“Singing in the raaaaaain...”

My phone starts ringing... I look at the ID.

“Jinsoulie <3”

“H-Hello?”

“Sooyoung? Where are you?”

~~~~~~

“Well, everything seems to be fine, Jinsoul is in good health, nothing seems suspicious lately and the sun is shining as bright as ever.” Haseul tells me, Jinsoul and Kim Lip.

We all nod at her statement, and I stand up first. “Thank you Haseul, I wouldn’t know what I would’ve done without you. Haseul stands up and walks over to me and giving me a hug. “Oh, honey, don’t worry about anything okay? Hear my number if you ever want to get in touch.” Haseul hands me her business card with her phone number written on the back.

I watch Haseul walk over to Kim Lip, watching both of them exchange hugs. “Call me more often.” Haseul says with a pout, making Kim Lip laugh.

I watch Jinsoul stand up and give Haseul a big hug.

“Thank you for everything, if it wasn’t for you and the others, Sooyoung and I wouldn’t be together again.” Jinsoul says, making Haseul smile.

“I’ll be in touch with you all, okay? I should get going before Gahei gets mad at me.” Haseul laughs it off. The three of us walk her out to the front door. With Jinsoul next to me, I take her hand and hold on to it tightly.

The three of us watch Haseul’s van drive off, in the distance.

“I should head off too, take a nice shower and sleep when I get home.” Kim Lip walks out of the front door, walking to her car will giving me and Jinsoul a wave goodbye as we do the same.

Once everyone had left, I’m finally left in peace with Jinsoul.

“Hey babe, let’s take a photo.” I tell Jinsoul, she seems a little shocked from what I said, but smiles at me.

“Of course, Sooyoung.”

“Say cheese!” I yell out.

“Cheeeeeeese!”

“I love you Sooyoung, thank you for giving me a chance.”

[anonymousfiction211]

The washing room

Summary: You spill your drink on Loki and decided to clean his shirt.   Word count: 1.485 words Warning: Smut A/N: A bit busy with school lately. Not a very long story, but still hope you like it :) Let me know if you have any comments, suggestions or ideas!

“No, I’m not doing it”

“It would just be for this night. Please? As a favour for me?”

“FINE! But just for THIS night! And don’t forget to say hi to Jane for me”

You followed Thor to the living room. Loki sat there reading one of his books. He didn’t look up when the two of you entered. He licked his finger and turned over a page. “I’m going to Jane’s tonight. So lady Y/N will be keeping you company tonight” Thor said to Loki. “You mean babysitting” he said without looking up. Thor sighed and looked at you “Don’t let him get into trouble”. You gave him an sceptic look. “Okay, just call me when he gets into trouble”

You sat down on the couch and turned on the tv. You started to flip through the channels. “Can’t you just pick something to watch” said a low voice near your ear. You gasped in shock and accidently dropped the remote on the floor. Loki walked around the couch and picked up the remote. “Jesus, you nearly gave me a heart attack” you hissed at him. He plopped down next to you “Not amused, darling?”

He changed the channel and a horror film started to play. You tried to take the remote but he held it too high. “Come on, you know I scare easily” you whined. He looked into your eyes “Isn’t it your job to keep me out of trouble?” he smirked. “Besides, if you’re really scared you can curl up to me” he winked at you. You felt yourself blush a little. You crossed your arms and stared at the tv. “Would you like a drink?” he asked you. “Eh.. yeah, since when are you so nice?” “I am always nice to you” he conjured up two cups and handed one to you.

It wasn’t a secret that of all the people living in the tower Loki got the best along with you. That included his own brother. He never threatened to throw you out of a window or stab you. But he sure was annoying most of the time. He was always finding way of getting under your skin. Putting hair dye in your shampoo, or your books too high so you can’t reach them. But the most annoying part was that you couldn’t stay mad at him too long. You were madly in love with him from the first day he moved in. He could be moody, but was always charming. And the two of you had more intimate moments, seeing a side of him not everybody knows about. Plus he had a certain grace about him. Everything he did seemed flawless, calculated. His emerald eyes and long black hair had you staring at him every time he wasn’t watching.

You pretended not to notice his arm sliding behind you on the back of the couch. Sure, you and Loki were friends. And he was an enormous flirt and tease, but you always doubted his sincerity. You weren’t following the movie, suddenly a jump scare appeared on the screen. Out of instinct you put your hands in front of your face, spilling the drink you were holding over Loki’s shirt. You heard him sigh and you saw the wet stain on his shirt. “O my god, I’m so sorry!” You stood up and went to grab a towel from the kitchen. When you came back Loki had taken his shirt off. You stopped in your tracks and stared at his abbs. When you see Loki you wouldn’t take him for a muscular guy, but he certainly had a trained body. He cleared his throat, snapping you out of your thoughts. You were hoping he didn’t notice your face reddening.

You walked towards him and started to dry his chest. “Again, so sorry. I didn’t mean to…” he put his finger under your chin and tilted your head. You looked straight in his emerald eyes “It’s okay, darling” he said in a husky voice. He let go of your chin and put hand on top of yours, which was still holding the towel to his chest. He lightly stroked your hand, not breaking eye contact. Your mind was racing with thoughts about Loki and you kissing, undressing and more. “Ehm… you shirt! I should put it in the washer” you quickly said. You broke contact and grabbed his shirt. You quickly walked towards the washing room.

You bend down to put his shirt in the washer. When you closed the washer door you stood up straight. You felt two hands on your hips and a chest at your back. A hand left your hips and put your hair behind your ear. You felt lips against your ears and hear him whisper “Y/N, I can’t do this anymore. I need you, badly” You turned around and faced him in shock “W- what?” “Darling, you must have noticed the teasing and flirting lately. I certainly noticed that slight blush on your face” he put a hand on the back of your neck and pulled you towards you. Your lips were almost touching. “Can I?” he asked. You nodded and you felt his lips press lightly against yours. He kept going and you felt his tongue begging you for entrance. You opened your mouth and let him in. You slid your own tongue down his mouth and started to explore it. Your hands were stroking his chest lightly.  

He broke the kissing and smiled at you. “I don’t think this is quite fair” he said. He grabbed the under hem of your shir and pulled it over your head. He started to kiss you again and you felt a hand unclip your bra. You put your hand around him on his back and pulled him as close as you could “it’s cold” you said. “I know a way that will warm you up” he smirked. He pushed you back, trapping you between the washer and his body. He grabbed you by your hips and pulled you up, placing you on top of the washer. You tried to break the kiss, but he wouldn’t let you. “I need air” you said between kisses. “I have been waiting to kiss you since I met you, I am not stopping” he growled. You giggled and put your hands in your hair. You felt him smile and felt his hands staring to caress you breasts. You felt your nipples harden as the kissing became more passionately.

You squeaked when the washer started to wash in the highest setting. Sending vibrations through your entire body. Loki chuckled “Enjoying yourself?” You felt him open up the buttons of your pants, sliding his hand down. You moaned and started to kiss his chest, trailing up to his neck and ear. Feeling proud when you heard a soft moan escape from his lips. He started to tease you by drawing circles on your underwear, right on top of your clit. You tried to move your hips with his movements. Becoming wetter with the minute. “Stop teasing me” you moaned. “Teasing is in my nature” he said with amusement in his voice.

A green shimmer engulfed the washer and it started to vibrate at a higher pace. You yelped at the new feeling, but Loki shut you up by sliding his tongue back in your mouth. You felt him slide your underwear to the side and go back to drawing circles on top of your clit. His fingers went lower and two of them entered you. Making you moan like crazy. He started to pump his fingers in and out of you. Loki started to place kisses up and down your neck, occasionally biting you softly. While his fingers worked their way in and out of you, you felt his thumb go back to your clit. The overstimulation and the vibrations of the washer send were becoming to much. You started to moan louder “Loki, please… I’m so close” He stopped kissing you and looked into your eyes. “Come for me” he whispered in his low husky voice. You didn’t know how, but came undone immediately at his command, moaning his name.

Loki worked you through your high. The washer stopped vibrating. He pulled his fingers out of you, as slow as he could. He kissed you passionately. He put his fingers to his own mouth and licked them clean. He was still staring into your eyes. Watching him do that got you worked up again. He grabbed your hips and pulled you against him. Your legs wrapped around his waist and a hand supported your ass. You felt his erection against your heat. “I’m not done with you” he whispered. He walked you back to his room. “Good thing we were alone tonight” you said. “Hmm.. almost as if someone planned it this way” he said teasingly while squeezing your ass.    

[honeyabyss]

Sleepover

Lucifer:

Okay so you want to have a sleepover with Luce, it probably happend a lot already, but not under those circumstances, it’s rather falling asleep in his study and waking up in his bed, questioning if something else happend last night

you propose the sleepover and at first Luce is confused like “but you already sleep in my room? wait a sleepover isn’t about sleeping? why would it be called a sleepover then?”

so you explain him, that it’s about spending some fun time with friends and that it leads to staying over night...and Luce agrees to your propsal of a sleep over

at the day of the sleepover you enter his room to find him organizing documents and other work related stuff

...? Wow that sounds like a lot of fun...

Well excuse you for Lucifer being a responsible righthand man, who still has to do some work!!!

you watch him work while listening to a few of his old records and sipping some demonus, all in all just like any other day you decide to visit him in his study, just the location changed

you’re bored out of your mind and your sighs annoy Luce so he asks you to stop..let’s be honest you probably going to answer his request with another sigh

“Is this not what you had hoped for today?” asks Lucifer the obvious

after some explanation he finally gets that you wanted to relax together and not do the usual stuff

“I apoogize, I simply assumed ‘fun time together’ meant the same to you as to me. I enjoy all the time spent with you” smooth talks his way out of his mistake

he actually puts his work down and asks you if you’d like to take a late night walk through the garden instead

when your walk ends, it is already very late, even for Luces terms, so you decide to go to sleep

“What are you doing? You’re sleeping on the bed! What kind of host would I be to let you sleep on a flimsy matress on the floor?”

climbs into the bed after you “the bed is big enough, stop complaining”

you can’t escape his death grip

Mammon:

has probably claimed your bed as his already, given how often he sleeps over at yours

you want to change it up and sleep in his room this time, Mammon gets very bashful talking about how you can’t cause his room isn’t cleaned up, yeah no shit Mcs room isn’t clean either due to certain demons hogging their room and leaving their crap everywhere

anyway, you two make yourselves comfortable on the two sofas in his room, a sofa for each to have more space for yourselves and also because Mammon is embarrassed, not that he would admit...

you watch some movies, probably of the genre action, and eat some delivery pizza, Mammon even pays!

you fall asleep on your sofa midway through the 4th movie, you wanted to go to sleep, but Mammon roped you in for another one, cause he thought you two could last a little longer...yeah neither of you could...

anyway after some time Mammon wakes up, his back hurts from sleeping on the sofa and he is about to start complaining, when he notices you’re still asleep on the other sofa, so he decides to just shift into a more comfortable position

he ends up watching some more TV, sadly for him the only things that get sended this late are horror movies, scared from just watching about half an hour, he turns the TV off and shifts in his seat restlessly

the great Mammon isn’t scared and he isn’t seeking your comfort, neither is he worried about his the human, but he ends up laying you down in his bed anyway, with him half sitting on the floor and half laying on the bed to give you some space, his hand holds yours while he falls asleep again, more at ease being close to you, he forgets about the horror movie he just saw

Leviathan:

sleepover? Did you mean your regular all nighter with games and anime? Yeah it's nothing new for this pair, that doesn't mean that Levi is  n’tvery happy about you suggesting it this time

he actually plans out the whole night, "finish this game until then, so we have enough time for these new anime episodes coming out this night, OH! And we can't forget this game... Hmm maybe if we put it here?”

Has a very tight schedule, because he wants to make the best out of his time with you

" Arrhhg!!! No you can't do that Mc! If you keep playing this bad we'll never finish this game in time!" he complains but ends up feeling really bad right afterwards and apologizes repeatedly

you suggest to just play for fun and forget the schedule after all this isn't the last night you two can spend together

Levi.exe has stopped responding

 you want to spend more time with him even though all he did today was complain? Are you an angel Mc? Or just mentally insane?

you keep playing late into the morning actually having a lot of fun, laughing a bit too loud and getting scolded by Satan who just wants to read his book in silence so SHUT THE FUCK UP, thank you.

"ah Mc! Watch out! Someone's attacking from behind you... Oh? Did you fall asleep? It's already late for you huh? What a normie falling asleep at 6 am..."

he is a bit overwhelmed by the situation and doesn't really know what to do with you now, you fell asleep in a beanbag in his room but it probably isn't comfortable enough to sleep on for long, but to get you into his bed bathtub he has to either carry you or wake you up, keeps mumbling to himself for a while gathering courage and lastly carrys you into his surprisingly very comfortable tub as it is big and layed out with blankets and pillows, he is a blushing mess by the time he is finished

he isn't tired yet so he goes back to playing, but he turns down the volume as to not wake you

Satan:

you probably spend a lot of time in each other's rooms already, mostly in his due to his brother's constantly appearing in your room, so when you ask to have a sleep over the only thing that changes is that you actually plan to sleep there this time and not just accidentally fall asleep

Satan texts you the whole day asking you about things you want to do or not want to do, so he can get the right things, considers you equally involved in the preparations as him, so your opinion isvery important to him

you end up deciding on a few books you'd like to read and make yourself comfortable together

Satan isn't used to much physical attention but he pulls you next to him on his bed nonetheless, it is easier to read like that

you take turns in loudly reading a passage of the current book

the atmosphere is very relaxed, you laying comfortably in bed, some tea (or cold bevarage of your choosing) and some dimmed lights only there so you can see the letters on the pages

as much Satan enjoys this reading session with you, the situation also relaxes him so much that he falls asleep midway through your reading part, all you notice is that his head suddenly drops on your shoulder leaving him in an uncomfortable looking position

you put a marker in the book and put it away for later, before carefully lowering Satan and yourself in a comfortable sleeping position and pulling the blanket over the two of you

content you fall asleep next to him, in his sleep Satan pulls you closer, carefully holding you

when he wakes up a bit later that night he is embarrassed about being so close and swiftly pulls away accidentally waking you up, you're still half asleep not entirely grasping the situation and just pull him back closer seeking warmth and fall asleep again, leaving Satan a blushing mess that slowly calms down and falls asleep again

Asmodeus:

a sleep over? Did you mean sex and sleep cuddles? No? Oh well, but tell him if you change your mind

what do you mean staying awake for long? Do you think his beauty is natural? I mean yeah it is, but he also has to take care of himself

agrees to let you spend some time with him before going to bed, because how could he deny you his beauty?

he insists on doing his normal skin care routine and if you want or not he's going to do the same to you “stop running away from me, I can't see much with this face mask on! But you will catch me if I fall while chasing after you, right?"

"How could you betray me? I fell on my perfect booty because of you" he actually starts crying after having fallen over some clothes

stressed Mc noises while crouching down next to him, apologizing and trying to calm him down

it's a trap

he pulls you into a hug letting himself fall onto the floor, caging you in with his limbs, there is no escape, he might look lithe but he's still a demon and with that very strong

"fine. I'll leave you alone, but don't complain later if your skin isn't as smooth as mine... Oh? But I won't let you free from my embrace, because this is the payment for making me fall and not catching me"

true to his words he doesn't let you go, he carrys you to his bed, takes his mask off with one hand, and makes himself comfortable in bed, laying down half on you to keep you from running away and because Asmo just wants your love and affection so your better cuddle back

Beelzebub:

sleepover? Can we order food? Already dials the number of all restaurants that have delivery

it's actually a very spontaneous sleep over, you just haven't been able to see each other much lately due to school related things and because Beel had a lot of training for his upcoming Fangol match, so you missed him and asked if you two could have a sleep over, Beel was overjoyed and instantly bear hugged you

just chilling on his bed eating food and talking about the day

don't worry Beel the vacuum will take care of any crumbs that fall onto the bed and might be uncomfortable to sleep on

after finishing a year worth of food, you clean up the packages and dishes and bring out the garbage

"you can take the bed, I don't mind sleeping on the sofa" Beel is an adorable gentleman who just wants to keep you comfortable all the time, even though he would love to cuddle you

if you insist he will sleep in the bed with you, but will be a bit nervous, so he keeps a small distance between you two, if you want cuddles then the best option will be to just take the lead and bring him in a position of your choice, it's not like he doesn't want to cuddle he just doesn't want to hurt you

once he falls asleep he will hold you contently and share all his warmth with you

a heads up: maybe take a shower in the morning, I bet Beel will dream of food and might drool on you

Belphegor:

ah yes sure we can have a sleep over

you expect him to stay awake? Really? The Avatar of Sloth himself is supposed to be awake? You're asking a lot human....

after some back and forth with a few breaks, because Belphie fell asleep midway through the discussion, you end up deciding on doing something you both might enjoy... Though Belphie thought it is a bit childish at first

so you end up stealing all Blankets and pillows you can find, Beel gives his volunteeringly away for his friend and his brothers enjoyment... While others ,cough Lucifer cough, have to be a dick about it and not give you his blanket even though he never sleeps anyway

you build a blanket fort in the planetarium, Belphie tries to help here and there, but 1. he is sleepy and 2. he never build one before so he needs your help

after you finish building your very comfortable night shelter, Belphie almost instantly falls down on the pillows and spreads himself out

you join and cuddle up to him, making him grumble a bit as he now has to adjust his position again

the view from the planetarium is the second reason to why you chose this place, Belphie lazily points out to some stars and tells you about their names and meaning

after some time you fall asleep, "you make me stay awake, but fall asleep yourself?", Belphie obviously can't have his title of avatar of Sloth be stolen, so he accidentally wakes you up by nudging your side with his elbow "oh sorry, did I wake you? I'm really sorry, I just wanted to find a more comfortable position..."

like the little shit he is, he pulls you close and falls asleep before you even realize what just happend

Solomon:

oh? A sleep over with him? He didn't do that in ages... Actually I don't think he ever done it, at least not in the "hey you're my friend and I just want to spend some time with you" sense

anyway don't accept any of Solomons ideas! “We can cook-” NO “Oh okay take out it is, more time for the fun part I guess... So wanna do some magic pranks? I have some new spells I still have to test-” NO “Oh... Well your right it might be a bit dangerous. How about we visit some old friends of mine? I'm sure I'll get them to make a pact with me this time-” Solomon... NO!

I'm very sorry Solomon, but I'm sure Mc doesn't want to die just yet

so you meet at Purgatory hall, because there is no way the brothers will leave you two alone... For a "sleep over" uh huh sure they'd be watching you the whole time, no fun wouldn't recommend, so Purgatory hall it is, Simeon will agree to check in on you to calm Lucifer down

Solomons room is probably as much of a mess  as Satan's so the only place to sit will be his bed, "make yourself at home, just don't sit down on that book it's cursed... Oh and don't spill this potion... You're better off not knowing why..."

he will tease the hell out of you. Period. He has spend too much time with Asmo "visiting a man at this time in is room.. That's very dangerous... Someone less of a gentleman than me might take advantage of that, unless that is what you had planned wink wonk”

just hit him with a pillow

but he will hit back

pillow fight it is, but it wouldn't be Sol if it didn't contain magic, he plays unfair making a magic pillow wall around himself while throwing pillows at your defenseless self, when you surrender he will let down his wall and fall onto you laughing loudly and freely, which attracts Simon's attention who looks into the room and smiles gently at the two of you enjoying each others company

Solomon has a lot of fun with you and actually feels comfortable enough to laugh, which gives you an immense boost of pride making you want to keep him laughing, so you start telling him bad puns and jokes until both of you are wheezing and panting for air having laughed too much

as you calm down the exhaustion hits and you both agree to rest for today, Solomon slides under his blanket and holds the blanket up for you, you slide into his awaiting embrace and cuddle into him

he might use the new position to tickle you a bit, but not much as he doesn't want you to slip out of his embrace, you fall asleep tangled together

Simeon snaps a picture of you two, but don't worry it's really blurry cause it's technology and Simeon just can't handle it

Simeon:

a sleep over? That sounds nice, he definitely wants to spend some more calming time with you

seeks permission for you from Lucifer instantly, so you don't have to go through it

even goes as far as to pick you up from the house of lemantation and carry your bag, cause he is nice

will drop of your stuff and take you out grocery shopping then, how to better spend your time then with your favorite hobby? Simeon likes to cook so that is what you'll do

don't worry he will help you with everything you don't know, don't know how to cut this? Let me show you, cut to a cliché scene of him standing way to close behind you guiding your hand to correctly cut this.. Shadow bellpepper? I dunno

anyway you two end up having lots of fun while cooking and Simeon might take any chance to tease you, damn this closet sadist angel with way too tempting shoulders

the whole family enjoys your cooking, grandpa Solomon, mom Mc, Dad Simeon and dog child Luke

when you retire to bed, he tucks you (oh god this got autocorrected to fuck and I'm so glad I saw that before posting it) into bed and gives you a kiss on the forehead for good dreams, will then settle himself on the sofa, "are you trying to tempt an angel? As much as I'd like to cuddle... I don't think we should..."

will reluctantly join you in bed but turn his back to you and keep space between you, will tense up if you put your arms around his waist and  cuddle into his back... But will enjoy it after getting used to it, will tangle his fingers with yours and hold your arm around his waist

Luke:

he is the one to ask for a sleep over, because Simeon said he is only allowed to stay awake longer on special occasions and he is a big boi and wants to stay awake longer and spend more time with the adults, “so can you please come over? I'll even bake you a cake...”

so you bake a cake together.

it's really nice and you have fun, Luke is really confident and takes the lead, telling you what to do next

 Oh and occasionally you have to bring grandpa Solomon out of the kitchen, cause he is trying to help, but... Yeah, no.

you have to help Luke put the cake in and out of the stove, cause he almost burns himself and you just want to help, but Luke sulks a bit, don't give him headpats he's not a dog, just hug him and tell him you care about his well-being

the cake turns out great and you have it as a dessert after dinner with everyone, grandpa is sulking, cause he wasn't allowed to help but whatever he'll get over it

it's about the time where Luke normally goes to bed where he starts to get a bit drowsy, his answers in your conversation about everyday things, are getting shorter and he needs longer to find the right words, so you suggest going to bed, but Luke wants to stay up late...

He falls asleep 10 minutes later and you tuck him into bed, you try to leave but he keeps holding your hand, guess you'll have to stay

Simeon finds you two cuddled together later that evening, as he wanted to check in on you before going to sleep himself

Barbatos:

it's the very rare occasion of Diavolo leaving the castle for a business in the human world, and Barb has been left behind at the castle to upkeep the work there, luckily there is not much to do so Barb decides to invite you over for some rare alone time... Also because he feels a bit lonely after spending almost each day with a man-child

when you arrive at the castle, Barb is already waiting for you at the front gates with a basket "I hope you don't mind if we have our dinner outside? The weather is so nice today I thought we could eat in the castle garden"

night picnic with Barb.... Actually now that I think about it... Isn't it night all the time in Devildom?... Anyway night picnic

Barb has literally made a feast for you two, he is so used to cook in big portions you'll have 'some' rest food to bring back to Beel tomorrow

just relaxing in the garden on a fluffy blanket surrounded by magically glowing flowers and eating nice food with Barb while talking about anything that comes to mind

his inner butler kicks in after you're sated and he instantly stands up to clean, but you pull him back down to relax, he is a bit flustered as he finds himself on his back with his head resting in your lap, your hand softly stroking through his hair, but the embarrassment soon gets replaced by pure contentment as Barb calms down and let's you play with his hair

he falls asleep in your lap, but you don't mind and let him take a small nap

when he wakes up again about an hour later, he bashfully apologizes for falling asleep... "it has gotten a bit chilly, shall we go in now?"

butler Barb is a British gentleman and that's why I like him, so after he put all the food and plates back into the basket he shakes out the blanket and drapes it around your shoulders to keep you warm, you better be grateful and take him with you under the blanket!

he brings you to a room which is right next to his so you can find him quickly in case you need something

"you want to sleep in one room? Is that truly wise? I'm still a demon and there is only one bed in my room... You don't mind?.... Oh well if you insist..." he is not used to being close to people of any race, laying down his butler demeanor and being his casual self is still a bit hard to him, but you're patient and so he tries to relax with you

he keeps distance in bed, and asks you multiple times for your confirmation that this is really to your liking

you fall asleep quickly and Barb, not in a creepy way, watches you a bit trying to find any sign of discomfort, as he doesn't find any he takes a big breath and takes your hand again looking for discomfort, but he relaxes with a content smile as your grip tightens around his hand as well

 he falls asleep feeling very happy and as if he has achieved a big next step of getting closer to you

Diavolo:

slaps 'youthful fun 101' on your desk in rad "how do you do, fellow kid? Ready for some neat sleep over at my castle this weekend?"

...

yeah... Let's fucking go!

Sorry Barb

he wants to try everything you can do at a sleep over... He never had someone to do that with, so just be nice and make the best out of it

you start out easy, you need to have a base to return too and later rest so the dining room gets redecorated to a giant blanket fort, eveything is covered in blankets and pillows

with the base set it's time for some fun, Dia suggests to play some games so here you go playing... I dunno party games... Even roping Barb into a round of Poker.. Barb wins due to his pokerface....

after some games to set the mood, Dia is up for some rather surprising things, braiding each others hair, doing face masks even a manicure, this man wants it all and he is having so much fun don't ruin this for him

much to Barbs dismay Dia wants traditional sleep over food so pizza it is, Barb was at least able to convince him to make the pizza themselves so it is less unhealthy, so here you three are in the kitchen baking a messy pizza with all sorts of toppings, because Dia can't decide on just a few

Barb is starting to regret having bought this youth trends book for Dia

after eating a delicious pizza it is movie time with an excessive amount of snacks to choose from as if you're not already full from the pizza, so you two cuddle up in your blanket fort and watch some movies on a laptop, until late into the night, Barb has already retired to his room but only sleeps with one eye closed always ready to jump for the fire extinguisher

Dia has too much energy

how about hide and seek  at night, in the castle, in hell, with no one else knowing about it, you hide in the kitchen almost scaring Barb to death when he enters to get a glass of water, he drags you out of the kitchen and exclaims the kitchen to be a restricted area

stop scaring Barb he almost kicked you, cause he thought you're a rat

what’s better at 3 am then having a 2-man full out blown karaoke party, waking everyone in the castle up

only positive thing for Barb: you sing until your voices are hoarse so you can't scream at him anymore

with the last energy you two have, you decide to top this very successful and entertaining sleep over with a pillow fight, messing up your blanket fortress

you fall asleep cuddled together under a half collapsing blanket fort, but don't worry Dia is shielding your body so nothing is going to suffocate you

Barb wants to retire... But he's also happy for his lord that he had such a great time

[writer-ish]

φόβος, or the persistence of fear

prompt: to shower with my muse / for sex on a table/counter/desk / for our muses to try a new position + words: “make me” pairing: mason x detective (grace bennett) word count: 5.3k words | rating: super E!!! (minors dni) summary: φόβος (FO-vos) Greek. “fear”. Post-Book 3 Final Demo, Mason and Grace have some trouble overcoming their individual fears.

author note: i know you said “or”, lovely @detective-sweetheart , but to my eyes you were issuing a challenge as to whether or not i could do them ALL. i didn’t quite succeed, but hopefully it doesn’t disappoint. 😘 and, uh… *side-eyes the word count* ...yeah. really should get that ao3 account up and running huh?

warning: this smutty lil fic immediately follows the end of the final demo for book 3 (bobby route) so if you don't want any inkling of what that's all about, stay away.

XX nsfw prompts

X X X X

Saying that it had been “one of those days” would not only be an insult to days but to the concept of singularity itself.

By the time they roll into the warehouse, it's just after nine-thirty in the evening. The sun has already dipped beyond the horizon almost entirely, but there remains an eerie summer glow of light that seems to permeate the atmosphere. Not quite day, not quite night, but instead some liminal moment that feels almost otherworldly. Familiar, yet not.

Grace shivers.

Mason, sitting beside her in the roomy black SUV, turns towards her as the almost-imperceptible tremor runs through her body.

She meets his gaze, taking in his expression – tight and concerned, the grey of his irises stormy and conflicted – before she feels his hand reach across her lap and cup her outer thigh, tugging her closer to him.

They wait in silence as Adam parks and the rest of Unit Bravo gets out, Felix patting her leg reassuringly from beside her before exiting on his side. Mason gets out as well and turns to her, hands now shoved deep in the pockets of his leather jacket.

It's Grace's turn, so she gingerly exits, the weight of the day finally revealing the toll it's taken on her body. The fifteen minutes of inactivity in the car were, apparently, all it had needed as a reminder of what she'd endured in the last sixteen hours or so. All of a sudden she feels exhausted, weighted down, frustrated, and in desperate need of a shower.

"You good?" Mason asks as they walk together towards the entrance of the warehouse, shoulders brushing, a bit behind the others.

"Just tired," she responds, rubbing her eyes wearily. "Can't wait to shower and just lie down."

"Need any help with that?" The drawled reply is rife with a familiar irreverence, but there is something heavier in his tone that makes Grace glance up.

He's looking down at her, telltale smirk on his lips. But his grey eyes are dim and there's a furrow between his brows that isn't normally there.

"Yes."

Her quick response seems to surprise him; he stops walking and turns to look at her with an inscrutable expression. She can understand why—she isn't normally so brazen when it comes to his advances and she knows he revels in her shyness sometimes. Mastering the art of getting a rise out of her, making her flustered, teasing her and watching her blush.

But this time she doesn't care if her response feels bold or unlike her. Since dawn that morning, the litany of things she'd experienced were enough emotional and physical turmoil to last a person a lifetime, never mind a period that's comprised of less than twenty-four hours.

And now she wants Mason and she wants a shower and she wants to sleep. In whatever order she can have them.

Instead of saying anything flirtatious or sarcastic, he lets his eyes roam over her face for a moment and then he just nods and drapes an arm over her shoulders, leading her inside.

Upon entering the Warehouse, they’re greeted by Adam, Nate, and Felix, who appear to have been waiting for them. All three agents turn when they see Mason and Grace walking in, and Grace feels a pang of guilt, knowing that Adam will probably want to coordinate a meeting of some sort to go over the events of the day as well as next steps.

Sure enough, he intercepts them as they attempt to walk by.

“We should be debriefing on everything that just occurred." Adam crosses his arms and peers down at Grace. "And Detective, have you gotten a hold of Agent Bennett? I can’t seem to—“

Grace opens her mouth to reply, and perhaps Mason can feel the way her body leans away from him, already attempting to gear herself up for the meeting Adam has planned for them all, because he tugs her closer and begins dragging her away, speaking over her before she has a chance to respond.

“The Detective,” he announces, forcing her to keep pace with him, “is currently unavailable."

She can feel Adam's disapproval radiating at her back and she looks up at Mason helplessly.

"Stop," he commands her, then says over his shoulder: "She's had a rough day, okay? We'll meet in the morning."

Adam grumbles his reluctant acquiescence and Felix shouts after them: "Don't forget how thin the walls are!"

Nate splutters, as Mason throws back: "They're concrete!"

Nate’s splutters turn into a groan as Felix responds: "With you two it doesn't seem to make a difference."

Grace groans as well, feeling the heat surge up into her cheeks as she buries her face in her hands. Mason just laughs and continues to drag her along.

As soon as she gets to her room, she lets him in and then closes the door firmly behind them, leaning on it heavily with a deep sigh.

Mason is already walking around the small room, inspecting the current aesthetic. When the room had been set up for her, cues had apparently been taken from her own apartment. So there’s a vibe that can definitely be considered “cozy”, like her style – long white curtains, a plethora of pillows, a down comforter – while also being weirdly unfamiliar. It’s like a Sims version of her own place in some Bizarro universe. She isn’t sure if it makes her feel more at home—or less.

“What did you bring from your place?” His voice breaks her out of her reverie and she looks at him in surprise.

“Oh, uh—” Taking a look around, her brow furrows. “Honestly, not much. After what happened this morning, I didn’t have the wherewithal to grab anything that I really needed. Thank god there’s some stuff here. But I’m going to have to go back tomorrow and sift through the damage. See what can be salvaged.” She shrugs, then to her horror, she can feel her eyes inadvertently well with tears.

“Hey, hey—” Mason is in front of her before she can blink, tilting her chin up. “What’s that for?”

“Ugh, just—” She rubs her eyes frustratedly. “What a fucking day.��

“Yeah, you’ve been through it,” he agrees, before roughly pulling her into his arms. “One for the record books.”

His arms around her provide more comfort than he could probably ever understand and she feels her whole body wilt into his strength and his heat and his scent.

“I’m so sick of days ‘for the record books’,” she mumbles into his chest and she can feel his chuckle more than she hears it.

“Why don’t we see if we can make this one a bit better, hmm?” She looks up just in time for him to capture her lips with his.

Letting out a little sigh, she twines her arms around his neck and allows him to kiss her slowly, leisurely, taking little sips from her mouth, stroking her tongue with his own, stoking a slow fire that always seems to be maintaining a low burn in his presence. She presses her body closer, enjoying the feel of her breasts against his torso, his growing hardness pressing into her stomach.

He glides his hands down her back and cups her bottom, squeezing it appreciatively, before pulling her even closer still.

Moving his mouth to her neck, his teeth glide against her pulse point, and her heart skips a little beat when she feels the sharpness of his canines against her sensitive skin.

“Relax,” he whispers, kissing her softly right in the place where his teeth had just scraped. “This isn’t where I want to taste you.”

She lets out a little whimper and brings his mouth back to hers, kissing him fiercely, feeling the points and ridges of his teeth with her tongue crowding his mouth. He pulls her tightly to him, dragging her body up so her feet leave the ground, and then he drops her backwards on the bed, his knee already down on the mattress with her, poised to pounce.

“No—” she protests and before she can blink he’s off of her and standing at the edge of the bed.

“What is it?” His voice is calm, with none of the frustration she would assume he’d be feeling in that moment.

“No, it’s just—” She pauses and glances at the door to the ensuite bathroom, teeth digging into her bottom lip. “I really need a shower, before any… tasting happens.”

He blinks and then in a flash he’s on her again, his body pressing her deep into the soft mattress.

“For what it’s worth, sweetheart,” he says, nipping at her lips, “I’ll taste you whenever, however.”

“Reassuring,” she laughs, “but trust me when I say a shower is needed.”

“Then let’s get you wet.” She laughs again with a groan, allowing him to hoist her up.

He tugs at her shirt and she raises her arms accommodatingly, allowing him to lift it up and over her head. Piece by piece, he undresses her, hands grazing her skin with each article he removes, discarding the item as quickly as it comes off her body, until she stands in front of him fully nude.

Self-consciousness at her nudity is a forgotten pastime now that she’s with Mason. It’s something about the way he looks at her —he’s always just so pleased. With her or with himself she can’t tell, but either way it does wonders for one’s self esteem.

Even now, she can almost feel the heat emanating off of him, a hungry smoulder of pure energy as his eyes roam up and down her body.

“Shower,” she squeaks, not sure who needs the reminder more.

Instead of answering, he lifts her up effortlessly, dragging her thighs around him until she can cross her ankles behind his back. She feels the fabric of his clothing rubbing every inch of bare skin it encounters – the leather of his jacket against her nipples, his jeans between her legs – and he settles her onto a dresser that she literally hadn’t even noticed before that moment.

Her breathing escalates in anticipation and yearning, waiting for wherever his mouth or his tongue or his teeth go next, but instead he remains quiet and still, before leaning forward and resting his forehead on her shoulder.

She freezes, unsure what he wants or even what she should do. And then she feels it.

A light tremor, scarcely noticeable, running through his body.

Before she can react, his arms tighten around her in a crushing hug and she instinctively hugs him back fiercely, running her hands up and down his back, pulling him closer with her legs.

“Mason,” she whispers. “What—?”

With a growl, he lifts his head and captures her mouth with his own, teeth and tongues clashing in a hungry, desperate kiss. His fingers tangle in her hair as his thumbs caress her cheekbones in a juxtaposition of rough and gentle.

She kisses him back, trying to keep up with the shift in his mood. Pulling away with a gasp, she attempts to catch his eye.

“Are you—?”

Groaning, he leans in and kisses her again, hands running over her body in frantic strokes, as though memorizing the shape of her with his palms.

When he lifts his head again, she sees the conflict in his narrowed gaze, the grey irises stormy with anger and desire and another, less discernible emotion that causes gooseflesh to rise on her bare skin.

“Just look at you.” His voice is harsh, almost angry, and her jaw slackens in surprise at his tone. He tilts away from her as he speaks and she registers the absence acutely as cool air hits bare skin that now feels on display, her legs still spread open around him.

Shyness overcomes her as she becomes truly conscious of her nudity for the first time. She makes to close her legs and he grips them tighter around his hips so she can’t move them, his eyes flicking between hers, seeking answers and absolution.

“You’re so soft, so small,” he continues, his voice still rough with shades of anger, even as his words feel hollow and almost somehow reminiscent of—grief? “This skin, this body you’re in—it’s so weak.”

“Mason!” She finds her voice finally, confusion and indignation at war with one another in her mind as she tries to coincide his expression – which can only be described as tortured – with the hurtful things he’s saying.

“How can we let you go back out there?” His voice is raw now, the anger appearing to slowly fade away, leaving him worn-out and desperate in its wake. “Unprotected? Out in the open for any fucker to grab, to take. To hurt?” He gives her a little shake and she gasps. “Huh? How?”

Understanding dawns. Yes, it had been a rough day for her. One of the worst.

But it looks as though, maybe, it had been a rough day for him, too.

Immediately, her hands begin to move of their own volition, running up his chest and over his shoulders. His whole body seems to sag, the fight draining out of him completely, and he closes his eyes, turning his head away from her.

“I have the Agency,” she murmurs as she tries to soothe him with her touch, her tone, her words. She tucks her hands under his jacket and pushes it off until it drops on the floor. Smoothing her hands back up his arms, she doesn’t stop until they cup his face. “I have them to protect me.”

She turns his head and waits until he opens his eyes, his gaze still narrowed, but with a telltale furrow in his brow.

“And I have you,” she adds, softly. “To protect me.” She pauses, watching the creases in his forehead smooth even as his eyes drift away from hers once more. “I’ll be okay.”

He reminds her now of a beast being soothed; a wolf, perhaps—hackles still up, but with the understanding that the threat has passed, for the time being, at least.

She knows not to look too much into it; loyalty is intrinsic to Mason’s being. His defence of her would be his defence of any of them.

But she kisses his brow anyway, just in case. His cheek, too, even as he stiffens in her arms.

“I’ll be okay,” she repeats, “unless I don’t get a shower in the next thirty seconds.”

His expression shifts back to a familiar one: arched brow, lips curled up on one side, white teeth showing one sharp canine. He seems almost relieved, though at what she’s not sure – the reprieve? Her unspoken forgiveness? Her assurance?

Regardless, she knows she won’t get the answers she seeks and, sure enough, he says nothing, only lifts her back into his arms and carts her off to the bathroom.

She can’t help but laugh against his neck, although her heart still thumps an erratic beat at the odd moment they’d just had.

Depositing her by the sink, he peels off his shirt, dropping it unceremoniously onto the floor as he reaches inside the shower to turn on the water. He then strips out of his pants and underwear just as quickly, appearing more comfortable in his nudity than he is clothed—a fact that she’s come to realize is true.

She can’t help but take him in, flawless and muscular, a constellation of freckles across his upper body and arms. Unruly onyx waves tumble towards his shoulders and her fingers itch to run through them. His chest is covered in short, curling hairs that stretch across his pectorals and down, over his defined stomach and even further still. His prominent erection is unselfconsciously on display, flushed and waiting, apparently, for her.

Feeling the colour rise in her cheeks as she stares, she hazards a glance back up to his face.

He’s regarding her quietly, a growing smile on his lips, his gaze half-lidded and pleased.

“Like what you see, sweetheart?”

“Always,” she responds before she can lose her nerve, her face heating even more.

He chuckles softly, taking a step towards her, stroking his knuckles down her cheek. “The feeling is mutual.” He nods towards the running water. “Feel that and tell me if it’s okay.”

Hopping off the counter, she reaches her hand in. The water is scalding and she hisses out a breath, before adjusting it slightly cooler. She waits a beat until it runs at a suitable temperature on her palm and wrist. “That’s good for me. You?”

She finds herself craning her neck to look up at him. He’s standing tall in front of her, looking down without really tilting his chin. He has a half smile on his face as he watches her and she feels herself redden again under his gaze.

“I’ll be fine,” he says eventually, before crowding her until she has no choice but to take a step in.

Entering the shower fully, she allows the water to run down her back, tilting her head to wet her hair. He follows her in and runs his fingers softly down her chest, snagging on her nipples, already distended and aching.

“Beautiful,” he murmurs, tracing over her lightly with his fingertips, playing and stroking. One finger circling a nipple before going down further until it grazes between her legs.

She bites back a moan as her eyes shut briefly, her palms pressing back against the cool tile of the shower for some sort of purchase.

He loops an arm around her waist and brings her to him, kissing her wetly, open-mouthed and demanding, their bare skin slipping against one another.

Swiftly, he turns her, pressing himself into the cleft of her ass. She can feel his hardness wedged deeply between her; a new sensation, but not entirely unpleasant, either. She wriggles experimentally and gasps at the titillating pressure.

“One day,” he murmurs in her ear, reading her mind, and she knows from the way he chuckles that her cheeks have gone truly red this time.

He strokes down her forearms, linking his fingers overtop hers before pressing them onto the tile so that her body is forced to tilt forward slightly. Then, he adjusts the spray of the water so it’s not hitting them directly.

“Open.” His voice is a gruff command and she can’t help but obey, her feet slipping slightly in her haste to spread her legs.

She feels his hand course over her wet skin, erection still pressed against her bottom, as his fingers move across her, teasing and playing, until they settle into the warm, liquid centre of her.

She lets out a protracted moan, her legs shaking, the relief of finally having him touch her right where she needs him to almost more than she can bear.

He strokes her masterfully, a finger delving into the wetness her body is producing just for him, for his touch, and then circling at the apex of her thighs. Her clit throbs with his attention and she can’t help but cry out as he applies steady continuous pressure. The shaking in her legs increases and his body presses against her even tighter, his other hand coming up to cup her breast, thumb strumming her nipple at the same pace as his other finger works her clit.

“I want you to come,” his voice grinds out next to her ear. “I want you to come all over my hand. I can already feel you dripping all over me, all over yourself. Let go, sweetheart.” He bites her neck lightly and she feels the sharp prick of his fangs on her sensitive flesh. “Let go.”

The pain and pleasure intertwine into a blinding flash of white light, her body convulsing as she cries out, her shout echoing throughout the small room. Her legs give way and he holds her steady against him, his arm the only barrier between her and the tiles.

She comes down slowly from her climax, her shaky breath echoing around them, trembling fingers still scrabbling for purchase on the wet tiled walls of the shower.

Before she can fully catch her breath, he turns her around wordlessly and crushes his mouth to hers again. She matches his fervour, opening her mouth and allowing him to consume her. Their kisses feel hungry, desperate, and she whimpers against his lips. Tightening his hold, he lifts her up into his arms, pressing her against the cool tiles. She can feel his hands splayed across her back, cushioning the impact, and she tightens her legs to draw him closer.

His erection is notched between her legs, stroking hotly up and down the teeming wetness there, both from the shower streaming between them and also, she knows, from her own body’s response to him, his nearness, and the promise of what’s to come.

She reaches between them and grips him, running her hand up and down his length as he tilts his head back and groans.

“Jesus, Gracie,” he bites off, and she can feel his fingers digging into her where they rest on her upper and lower back. “You gotta stop that, sweetheart, before I—”

“Make me,” she teases, revelling in these small, rare moments where she has the upper hand.

His head snaps up and she feels her heart skip a beat at the expression on his face, those silvery irises as thin as crescent moons against the deep black of his dilated pupils. His lips curl in a familiar smirk as he bounces her up higher in his arms. Laughing in surprise, she loses her grip on him and has to put her arms around his neck instead for balance.

At the new height he has her, she can feel the tip of his cock nudging into her liquid centre.

She lets out a breath that extends into a moan, feeling him enter her as she opens for him further. He holds her steady, hands cupping her ass as he guides her down, then back up, then down again, allowing her body time to accommodate him comfortably.

“Oh,” she whimpers, the sensation almost too much for her to bear. “I can’t—I’ve never—”

“Shhh.” He shifts and one hand goes to the back of her neck, drawing her head down his shoulder, while his other arm grips her around her hips. “I got you.”

Slowly, slowly he thrusts and pulls back, thrusts and pulls back, shallow and fluid movements, her body giving and giving some more, until he holds her tightly against him, their pelvises notched together, him fully seated within her.

There is never a moment in which she feels so vulnerable as the moment when they’re connected like this. Her body trembles with emotion, the full weight of the day finally crashing down on her. She tightens her thighs against his hips and her arms around his neck, tilting her head to kiss his wet, freckled shoulder, neck and jaw, happy that the steady stream of water from the showerhead prevents him from noticing the tears streaking down her cheeks.

She can’t do this right now, she can’t allow herself to succumb to this moment, these feelings, because if she does, she’s going to say something she regrets. Something that will ruin everything.

So she distracts herself with the physicality of what they’re doing and with the pressing need for release.

“Move,” she begs with a sob that hopefully he believes is impassioned rather than emotional. She rocks her hips against him, needing the moment to end just as much as she needs it to last forever.

He quickly and silently obeys, using her body to create a rhythm that matches his own, crowding her against the corner of the shower, holding her securely in his arms. She can feel his heart pounding against her body and without thinking, she digs her teeth into the soft skin where his neck meets shoulder, not hard enough to draw blood but certainly enough to leave a mark.

The sudden action, fierce and uncharacteristic of her, almost possessive in its intensity, clearly surprises him. His hips stutter against hers and his hands grip her tightly—so tightly that she knows she’ll be seeing the bruises in the morning. He lets out a hoarse shout and she can feel his release inside her and that’s all it takes to send her hurtling over the edge with him. Letting out a cry that matches his, she rides the wave of her own climax, her body holding tightly to his, inside and out.

They stay like that for a beat, hearts pounding, Grace’s breath echoing shakily against the tiles. Gently, Mason disentangles her from him and sets her down, still holding her against him firmly. He strokes her back until she can get her breathing and pulse under control.

Once she’s steady, he pulls away from her. She inadvertently lets out a whimper as the water, now lukewarm, causes goosebumps to rise on her skin, the heat from his body too tempting to be taken from her. She has no reason to be concerned, however, because he’s back on her almost immediately, this time with a soft, soapy cloth in his hand that he begins to wash with her with.

Long, languid strokes down her back, her arms, the backs of her legs. Gently between her legs as he washes away the intermingled essence of what they’ve just done, rinsing and rewashing, in light, soft strokes.

She allows him his ministrations, feeling sleepier and more languorous by the moment, enjoying the feel of him caring for her. She registers that the soap has a light scent, inoffensive to her own nostrils, but she can’t help but wonder if it bothers him.

Reaching up lazily, with an arm that feels sluggish and heavier than usual, she brushes the damp hair back from his forehead.

“The soap—?” she tries, taking the wash cloth from him and allowing it to drop between them. She steps back slightly and rinses herself with the water streaming down.

“It’s fine.” He shrugs. “I can only smell you.”

“Me—?” She realizes belatedly he means her arousal, and the evidence of their union, and her face flares up with heat once more. His smirk turns into a full fledged grin.

“Oh, sweetheart, if I could make you blush like that forever, I’d be one lucky son of a bitch.”

The word forever seems to hang between them and the smile drops quickly from his face at her sharp intake of breath.

“Turn around,” he says gruffly and she obeys quickly, reluctant to allow the moment to be shattered completely.

She hears the sound of another liquid dispenser and the telltale coconut scent of her favourite shampoo fills the humid space – when the Agency does something, they really do it right, she thinks, impressed and a little weirded out – before she feels Mason’s hands in her hair.

If she’d expected impatience or roughness from him in this endeavour, she’s pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong. For all his brusqueness and usual lack of desire to perform acts of service for others – outside those related to sexual pleasure – he takes his time with her hair, leisurely massaging in the shampoo, fingertips expertly pressing into her scalp and lathering the wet strands.

She tilts her head back and closes her eyes, a hum of pleasure escaping her lips. The warm water streams over her body and she’s convinced she’d be able to fall asleep standing if she let herself.

After a few more moments of quiet bliss, Mason places his hands on her shoulders and turns her back around. He gently tilts her chin up until the water is streaming over her hair now and she brings her own hands up to assist in rinsing out all the shampoo.

As she gets the shampoo out of her hair, his hands idly tease and caress her, his fingers running over her body once more in light strokes. The touch doesn’t seem to be intended to reignite anything; instead, it appears to be for the simple pleasure of just touching her.

They’re both quiet, the need or the desire to speak seemingly sapped out of them, and she allows him his touches, until all the soap is out of her hair and off her body. Then, she languidly opens her eyes and just watches him—watches how his eyes follow his hands as they move over her body, tracing her with his gaze as well as his fingers.

“Your turn?” she asks, finally, her voice a quiet echo in the small space.

He shakes his head and gathers her close to him, kissing her soundly on the mouth. “I’m good. Ready to come out?”

Instead of answering, she wraps her arms around his neck, stroking down his back and into his damp hair, the unruly waves curling around her fingers more than usual. She kisses him again, then nods against his lips, her eyes dropping closed of their own volition.

The rest is a blur. She feels him towel her off, remaining completely boneless the entire time and succumbing to his ministrations with nary a physical protest. He must dry himself as well, but who knows, because next thing she feels is him carrying her to her bed. She snuggles even more securely into his arms and she can swear she registers his lips against her forehead.

When he settles her on top of the covers she doesn’t even bother to do anything except burrow herself underneath them, still naked, hair frizzing and damp.

Her eyes are still closed, but she knows he hasn’t left, can feel him like a physical ache. Hovering but not touching or sitting. She doesn’t know if he’s in the process of dressing or stark naked. Doesn’t know if his intent is to stay or to go.

The need to keep her feelings inside, to not...ruin things, or push him away, is so, so strong. She could ask him to stay and he could go anyway, taking her heart with him. She could stay silent and wait for him to make his own decision, knowing the outcome would likely be the same.

As she wars with herself, feeling time ticking past, feeling him slowly slipping away, an image arises in her mind unbidden.

It’s his eyes.

She thinks of how they’d looked that morning, clouded with worry and not a hint of lasciviousness, even though she knew she’d been about ninety-nine percent see-through as she’d squelched up the drive.

How they’d looked when he’d apologized to her for his harsh words at Haley’s the other day, contrite and a little bit confused.

The way they’d held anger and, more than that, hurt when Bobby had spoken about kissing her.

And then she thinks about the look she’d seen in them as they’d all been overrun by Trappers and, immediately afterwards, as she had faced certain kidnapping by a supernatural he knew he could not defend her from.

He’d been terrified.

Those storm-grey irises, so familiar and already so dear, had been filled with abject terror and fear.

Fear for her.

The images fade as she hears him rustling, collecting his things.

She thinks again about how he’d been scared for her. Scared of losing her.

She’s scared, too.

She’s scared that all of this might be for naught. That she’ll fall deeper and deeper in love and he’ll soon be looking for a way out.

But tonight isn’t for fears, she decides. Tonight, they’re safe. Tonight, they’re together.

Tonight, he's hers.

“Mason?” Her eyes remain closed, but she hears his movements stop. She lets out a shaky breath, releasing the final bit of her trepidation, before speaking with conviction:

“I want you to stay.”

X X X X

👀 tags: @utterlyinevitable , @ethansramsey , @otherworldlypresents , @worldoffandoms , @raleighcarrera , @ejunkiet , @starrystarrytrouble , @terrm9 , @openheartthot , @octobereighth , @campsearchlight , @coldshrugs , @kelseaaa , @homeformyheart , @intothestrawberryjar , @magebastard , @kodysteach , @newfangledsoul , @silma-words , @lalizah , @detective-sweetheart , @lem-20 , @ifshebreathes-shesathot , @takemyopenheart , @v2itbwstct (if you want to be added/no longer want to be tagged, pls let me know!)

[moonmothmama]

i swear to christ i've fallen in love with Cain and Abel all over again every single time i've encountered them.

years ago when my brother recommended i read Swamp Thing, do you know what i came away from it with? i mean i enjoyed it. but what really burrowed into my brain were these two fuckin' guys from ONE scene, a dream sequence, and i knew there was more to them, i didn't know what it was referencing but i knew it was referencing something, and i had to find out what, i wanted more of them

and it's interesting because i had run into Cain and Abel before, briefly; in the tie-in comic book to Batman: the Animated Series. it was an issue about Scarecrow. on one page there was a sequence with two men talking to Professor Crane about a work release therapy thing. and it stuck out to me because, just like the Swamp Thing appearance later, i could tell it was a reference to something. i didn't understand the reference but i know how that shit goes. they were way too detailed and distinctive not to be someone. i couldn't look it up back then because like..... it was a long time ago. it's not like i could just google shit the way we can now.

anyway. i read Alan Moore's run on Swamp Thing- which predates Sandman as i later found out- at my older brother's behest, and as i said, i walked away with a burning curiosity about two characters who had appeared once in a main character's dream.

so. typical me.

and when i looked into it, i found something that fucking delighted me: that their origins were in old horror comics. that shit was RIGHT up my alley. so i dove in, and fell in love with them again. for real, i love those comics. first off the art! AUGH the old comic book art, i live for that shit. older comic book art is so gorgeous. and i love horror! i don't care that they were a lil corny. i have some of the collected volumes of House of Secrets & House of Mystery and god i wish they were in color.

anyway there was no repetitive reenactment of the first murder going on between them until Swamp Thing. they had a pretty typical mildly antagonistic sibling relationship as far as i recall (i have to go digging for my books); Cain teased Abel, and they were a bit competitive with each other, but iirc that was about as far as it went, aside from maybe a few quick gags. although, idk, would they have been doing that back then if they could've gotten away with it? hmm. food for thought.

what was i saying? right right. falling in love with Cain and Abel for the third time: watching Sandman on Netflix. by the time i heard that was gonna be a thing i already had a deeply established affection for these guys, although i'd never encountered them in the Sandman comics (the only sandman things i can remember reading are Death: The High Cost of Living & Endless Nights. if there was something else i've forgotten it). all the same, though, i was creeping on the news about it because hell, what chance am i ever gonna get to see Cain and Abel onscreen again? i mean a gal can dream. (hah) and they were a huge deciding factor in me watching.

and AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaa

they're so good i love them so much

particularly, watching this reminded me how much i enjoy Cain. is it weird that i feel a little guilty admitting that i favored Abel?? almost feel like i should apologize, lol (sorry Cain. mea culpa). but i love both of them. and i love them as a pair. and i am SO HYPED at the prospect of seeing more of them next season. PLEASE let there be more Cain and Abel next season.

[halcyonstorm]

Buttered Popcorn

“In the trip to Marley, I imagine Onyankopon would tell Levi and Hange to go to the movies, because he thought Hange would love it. (I imagine they would go without Onyankopon) So, in the cinema, at the beginning when the lights of the projector turn on she would be super excited and Levi would hush her.  And well, the movie would begin… (I don’t care the genre) and I imagine they would get a little close, maybe arms touching? But then the typical romance scene would appear, with the actors kissing, and so they would get conscious of the situation, Levi would get awkward and separate from Hange, and I don’t know anymore. I think it can be funny, fluffy and whatever you feel like :)”

-

Hi! Thank you for leaving me a submission! I altered what you said a little bit, but I hope it’s still enjoyable. Some of the movies I added are recent, so just please disregard that the movies definitely came out after their lifetime. I really enjoyed writing this, so thank you!

-

Marley was hustling and bustling. Every weekend, markets would open up and merchants would gather in the center of the city to sell their items. All sorts of items, including fruit, jewelry, books, liquor, ice cream, and even animals. Today was the day that the 104 was able to forget about Titans for a little while. Onyankapon decided to take advantage of that. 

“Hey, Levi,” Onyankapon whispered, touching his upper back, gesturing for Levi to walk with him. He pulled him away from Hange for a moment. Hange was purchasing something at a stall. “The kids are going to that restaurant down the block for an early supper.” He gestured towards the road behind them. “You and Hange should go on a date.”

Levi scoffed, shoving his hands in his pockets. “Why would you ask me, specifically, to go on a date with her?”

“Cut the crap, Levi. We all know you like her,” Onyankapon said. Levi shot him a death glare, which made Onyankapon’s shoulders tense. They walked a little further while Levi contemplated his decision.

“…Fine. I’ll keep her company to make sure she doesn’t wander off,” Levi agreed. Onyankapon smiled wide.

“Great! There is a cinema down the block on the right side. You should take her there. I’m sure she’d love it.” Did he already plan our date? Levi asked himself.

“What’s a cinema?”

“It’s where you sit in a big theater and a movie is shown on the screen. You can buy all sorts of food too. There are a ton of showings. Horror, romance, comedy, action; You should go with her and decide. They’re showing movies at all times of the day.”

Levi nodded in understanding. Where was the Commander, anyways?

“The movies…” he muttered to himself. He, himself, had never seen a movie before. He figured Hange would enjoy it. Plus, he could spend some alone time with her. 

Levi turned his head to look behind him. He narrowed his brows. “Where’d Hange go?” He asked aloud, noticing Onyankapon disappeared as well. He began pushing through the flow of the crowd to find her. He was starting to panic. His heart rate started to pick up, adrenaline coursing through his veins. This new city was enormous compared to their little island of Paradis. She’d be gone, forever stuck in enemy territory. It was then he suddenly noticed Onyankapon from his tall stature, who must’ve stopped walking with Levi at some moment in which he couldn’t quite remember. He was standing casually, chatting with someone. He jogged over to him and found Hange. Levi rolled his eyes.

“Hange, stay with the group,” Levi enunciated. Hange just smiled, pushing out a wafer cone with a creamy substance on top.

“Try this!” She said. Levi was confused. After a moment of him just staring at it, she took his hand, placed his fingers around the cone, and let go. “Try it. It’s good.”

Hange had a cone for herself. “It’s called ice cream. This is vanilla. It’s so sweet and creamy and cold and soooooooo good!!”

Levi bent his head down towards the cone, awkwardly opening his mouth to lick it. The woman-you’re-in-love-with’s hand touching yours can be very convincing after all. An eyebrow raised in interest.

“Mm… Not bad.” Levi noticed Onyankapon was staring at him. He kept weirdly shaking his head towards Hange and clearing his throat. Is he okay? he asked himself. Levi shook his head quickly at him, as if to ask what the fuck?

Onyankapon rolled his eyes dramatically, patting Hange’s back. “I’ve gotta use the bathroom. Levi, keep an eye on Hange.” He winked at Levi. Levi is so fucking dense, Onyankapon thought to himself, passing by them to find a bathroom. Oh. That’s why he was acting funny, Levi thought to himself.

Hange started walking next to Levi, licking her ice cream. She really likes it, Levi thought to himself. It made him happy. He figured now was the only appropriate time to ask her out… He had to make it as casual as possible. He felt his heart start to race and his hands begin to shake. It wasn’t a big deal. We are just hanging out like we usually do. Then he thought maybe he didn’t have to even say anything. He can lead them to the cinema and somehow draw her attention that she’ll ask him. Yep. That’s what he was going to do.

“Let’s go this way,” Levi said, grabbing her wrist gently. He didn’t want to lose her in the crowd, knowing how her attention span can be short at times. Hange was really grateful to be spending the day with him and that he wanted to spend it with her.

The pair got through the crowd in the center of the city. They passed some stalls on the outskirts when he finally noticed the cinema. There was a huge red and white sign at the top. There were black letter cards that read multiple movie titles, including “Psycho”, “The Wizard of Oz”, “The Godfather”, and “The Best Years of Our Lives.” There was a ticket booth in the center with glass doors on either side. Levi had finished his ice cream cone and had a wrapper remaining. Hange finished too. Great, he thought. There’s a trash can right by the cinema. I’ll go over there, draw her attention this way, and she’ll invite me to go in. 

“I’ll take your wrapper,” he said, putting his hand out. 

“It’s okay, I got it,” Hange replied.

“Give it to me,” he said sternly. Hange chuckled nervously. 

“Okay. There’s a trash can right there on the left,” she said, pointing in the opposite way of the cinema. 

“I see one over there. I’ll throw it out there.” He had already walked towards the cinema before she could respond. There weren’t many people on this street, so Hange had a clear view of Levi.

“Oh! Levi!” Hange started walking quickly over to him. “Onyankapon told me about the cinema… Let’s go watch a movie!” Levi smirked to himself.

“I guess,” he replied, being coy. My plan worked.

Hange seemed to light up once they walked in the building. It was very pretty inside. A chandelier hung from the ceiling, huge movie posters propped on easels, and there were red and yellow flashing lights around each theater room which also lined the floor. The smell of butter filled their nostrils. 

“What’s that smell?” Hange asked aloud, walking towards the counter.

“Popcorn!” the employee responded. “Would you like some?” Hange looked behind the lady, noticing a huge red glass box with yellow and white kernels inside.

“Yes! Large.” The employee smiled, starting to fill a large bucket with popcorn. Hange suddenly had a burst of energy. “What movie do you want to see?” She asked Levi.

“Hmm… Half of them sound boring.”

“I’ll pick,” Hange nodded.

The employee handed them their bucket. Hange’s eyes widened and glistened. It smelt so good. There were a few wet pieces at the top, fresh with drizzled butter and the salt glistened in the light. The bucket was very warm.

“Which movie would you two like to see?” she asked.

“Hmm… Psycho,” Hange replied. “I’m not sure what it’s about, but I like the sound of it!” 

The employee grinned, handing her the tickets. “I hope you enjoy!”

“Thanks!!”

Hange happily walked down the hallway with the bucket of popcorn. She offered some to Levi. He was stubborn, but Hange insisted he tried it. As it turns out, he loved it. It was salty and buttery, but a light snack. It was perfect for movies.

They found the movie theater their movie was playing. It was completely dark in the room, except for the bright screen. Hange gasped.

“Whoa!” She exclaimed. “This screen is HUGE!”

“If you eat that entire thing, something else will be huge later too.”

Hange chuckled. “Oh, Levi…” She seemed like she was gonna continue, but she didn’t. “Let’s sit up there!” Before Levi looked her way, she was already climbing the stairs up to the higher chairs. Levi passively agreed, following her. He thought she looked very handsome today. He enjoyed seeing her in a suit.

She picked a seat in the middle, weeding her way through. She finally sat down with a plop.

“I’m so excited!” Hange whispered loudly, smiling wide. Levi’s heart swelled at the sight. 

“Just keep it down,” Levi said endearingly, taking the popcorn from her. Hange was staring at the screen, eyes wide in excitement. “I have no idea what it’s about!!”

Levi felt the urge to kiss her right there. After all, no one would see. It was dark and people were mumbling amongst themselves. No one would be able to see them here. He, however, held back his urge.

The small lights on the walls around them dimmed, hinting that the movie was starting. Creepy music started playing. Hange’s grin was still ear-to-ear, eyes wide. She was loudly munching on popcorn. Levi shushed her, grabbing some popcorn with his hand. It was unlike him, but he shoved it in his mouth. He wasn’t gonna tell her that he loved it (unless she asked, of course).

The movie began. It was beginning with a lady stealing money and driving away in a car, not knowing someone has been stalking her. She had bought a new car and changed her look, trying to ward the guy off. It started to get really creepy after this. She was in a motel room, beginning to strip. Hange felt extremely awkward, as did Levi. This feeling, however, quickly dissipated. She got in the shower, and the creepy man broke into her room, starting to slowly make his way to her bathroom. When they showed his dagger, Hange gasped.

“Oh my god! She’s gonna die!” Hange whispered loudly to Levi.

“No, she’s not,” Levi said, but definitely lying. He was getting nervous too.

Suddenly, it happened. The man whipped open the shower curtains, stabbing the lady in the shower to death. She screamed bloody murder, pun intended.

Levi and Hange screamed. Hange was sure that he never screamed in his life until now. A few others screamed in the audience as well. Levi unintentionally grabbed Hange’s hand, still a bit greasy from the popcorn. 

“I told you she was gonna die!” Hange nagged, her voice normal now.

“Well, I didn’t expect them to show it on screen!” Levi replied whispering. 

“I am NEVER showering again!” Hange whispered loudly.

“It’s not like you shower to begin with!” Levi replied back to her. Someone loudly shushed them in the audience. Hange giggled softly.

“Maybe you’ll just have to knock me out again.”

Their hands remained laced throughout the entire movie, Hange accidentally squeezing way too hard when a scary scene was shown. Levi blushed each time this happened. He really liked holding her hand. It turns out that this movie was on a whole other level of fucked up, but it was right up Hange’s alley. She loved crazy shit like this. Levi was starting to get weirded out but every time he looked at Hange, that feeling went away. Finally, the movie ended, and the credits rolled out. People in the audience were clapping. Hange made a questionable face at Levi before softly clapping her hands together. Levi placed his hand on her chin and turned her face towards him. 

“You have something on your cheek,” Levi said. He grabbed a handkerchief from his pocket, inspecting her face.

“Oh, it’s probably popcorn,” Hange chuckled, her cheeks flushing red. Thank God the room was still a bit dark.

He started to smush the kerchief on her cheek, trying to rub off the butter. He was looking at her so intricately, so carefully. The lights started to brighten the room again. They were almost alone in the theater. 

“There you go,” Levi said, folding his dirty kerchief and placing it in his pocket. Hange was feeling adventurous today. He got her all hot and bothered by staring so beautifully at her face. 

“You’ve got something on your face, too,” Hange said nervously. Levi knitted his brows. 

“Where?”

“Here,” She said, slowly leaning in. She placed a soft but sweet kiss on his beautiful lips. Levi was shocked, pleasantly shocked. He kissed her back for that brief moment. His cheeks flushed red as he tried to hide his excitement from her kiss.

When she pulled away, their eyes locked. 

“I think I missed a spot,” Levi said softly, placing his hand on her cheek, kissing her softly again.

-

“So…” Levi began as they walked out of the theater. “He was the psycho the whole time? His mother wasn’t even alive…”

“Uh huh!” 

“That’s a Psycho for you,” Levi added. Hange started to laugh. Levi smiled; Hange was lucky enough to catch his smile. He didn’t show his teeth, but the corners of his mouth turned up in a happy, content smile. He hadn’t felt happy (or felt this happy) in a long, long time. 

“Levi,” Hange said, looking over at him. “Let’s see more movies together sometime.”

Levi smiled visibly at her. “Let’s do that.”

[i-will-physically-fight-you]

As Long as the Forest Stands Tall, I’ll Be With You

Title: As Long As The Forest Stands Tall, I’ll Be With You

Summary: Humans come to Logan’s tree in all sorts of shapes and sizes. They ask for good crops, to find true love and to strike riches beyond their wildest dreams. Rarely, however, does a child stand beneath his tree, shivering and hiccuping in the bitter cold of winter.

Pairings: Familial Analogical, Background Platonic Logicality and Familial Intruroyality

Word-Count: 2.6-k

Warnings: Human Sacrifice, Death Mention, Body Horror, Morally Gray Logan, Angst with a Happy Ending

This fic is inspired by an anon ask sent to me awhile back that I just now finished. It’s also the Cryptid Logan fic that won the poll of next published wip, so hope y’all all enjoy :)

-

A human child stands at the base of his tree, shivering and hiccuping in the bitter cold of winter. Indeed, the child’s stick arms hugs its frame in a poor attempt to stay warm. The child does not have a coat, and its threadbare stockings could hardly count as shoes. 

Logan finds himself mystified by the sight.

 Humans came to his tree, in all sorts of shapes and sizes. They asked for good crops, to find true love and to strike riches beyond their wildest dreams. He granted them all, as long as they left an appropriate gift in its place. Things like books and knowledge he favored most of all, but he often did not turn away a cow or two if it was all they had to offer.

However a child? Rarely do children come seeking his help. Adolescents do not have the same worries as their often self-absorbed older counterparts. The few children that have come his way in decades past asked for things for others. The appearance of the child is enough to wake him fully from his winter rest.

“Hello.” He speaks, the wind carrying his message, through the dead tree branches and over the mounds of snow below. 

He forms at the base of his tree, in a shape familiar yet alien to a human’s eye. Centuries of practicing shapeshifting and he still has not perfected a form that does not send a human’s flight-or-fight’s reflexes into overdrive. Humans are innately good picking up on minuscule anomalies. If it is not the nose this time, then it is the ears he has gotten wrong. Too pointy, too many. He’s certain this time he has the right amount of body parts.

The child leaps in the air at his greeting. They turn to face him, trembling even more. He does not think it is from the cold.

“H-hello.” The child returns the greeting, dipping their head in reverence.

“What is your name, child?” He asks, “and what do you seek?”

The child makes a weird, muffled noise. Their head is still lowered, facing away from Logan’s searching gaze.

“My name is Virgil, I--I’ve come to seek an end to this harsh winter. That you--you bring about a prosperous out-pour of crops this Spring.” The child speaks, slow and stilted. Like words firmly pressed into their mouth by someone else and not a genuine request from the child himself.

A flash of anger passes through Logan. If humans think by sending out a sapling their chances will double, they are wrong. Logan values knowledge and wisdom, not emotional manipulation.

 Logan hums in acknowledgement of Virgil’s words, “I see. And what shall you offer in payment?”

“Myself.”

“What?” Logan asks, for he is sure he misunderstood the child.

“I--it’s--Chief Habrok said as an orphan I’m not good for much else and that this is the highest honor I could bring to the village. So I offer myself as a sacrifice.” Virgil looks up at him, glistening tears half-frozen to his cheeks. So much of both fear and determination radiates from the small being. 

Logan’s ire has kindled to a raging forest-fire. This is worse than simply thinking Logan would be softer to a child’s pleas than an adult’s. Humans have bargained with him using livestock but one of their own young? A child that has lost so much already? It is revolting. All around them, the forest creaks, branches shifting not from the blizzard’s winds but of their own volition. Virgil flinches. 

He reaches down, softly cusping Virgil’s chin with a hand to direct the child’s attention towards himself.

“I will take you far away from here. Somewhere you’ll be safe and loved for as long as this tree stands tall. Okay?” 

“And my village--you’ll take care of them?” Virgil asks, confusion and doubt swirling around him. Much like the fierce snowfall sweeping through the forest.

Logan’s lips twitches. “You have my word that they’ll be taken care of.” 

“O-okay.” Virgil agrees, voice soft and small.

Logan drops his hand away, holding it out by his side. “Take my hand.”

Most would hesitate touching the hand of a spirit. They’d fear to be swept away, to never see the light of day again. The fear is very much present within the child. But again so is that firm, resolute determination. Virgil’s tiny hand shoots forward, latching onto Logan’s larger one with a startlingly strong grip. The wind picks up as the trees shake themselves from their foundations, their roots. They stretch, relishing the freedom of movement.  

“Close your eyes.” Logan murmurs. It’s his only warning before he calls forth to the forest. Logan is not this one tree like the humans believe. He is all of them. He is the whole forest. Each of them are perfectly formed clones connected by the same root system. 

He integrates Virgil’s soul into the system, careful to keep the child’s individuality intact. Somewhere in the bidding snowstorm, a young three-foot sapling sprouts bright green leaves much like the tree the two stand under. Certain of his work, he withdraws. He underestimates the drain of his powers, because he nearly collapses to the ground.

“You!” Virgil gasps, staring at Logan with bulging eyes. Logan looks at himself, no longer ambiguously human in appearance. Ah, yes. He’s quite forgotten how frightening his true form can be for humans. It is a shimmery indigo blue that is almost translucent. He has a multitude of eyes and just as many limbs. His hair is mossy, with bits of berries and flowers poking out of it. His eyes are a pupiless navy blue with whirling black rings.

“You look different as well,” Logan says, pointing out that the child’s form has taken on a glowing purple hue. Hmm, purple. Unusual color for a spirit. He still looks much like a human aside from the color. Give it enough time, however, and the child’s appearance will shift to reflect his newfound nature.

“Am I dead?” The child blurts out.

“Not in the slightest.” Logan reassures. The child does not look reassured despite this, “Now come, I know someone who will take good care of you.”

“B-but I thought, you’d--” The child stutters, unable to form a coherent sentence.

“Oh no, I’m terrible with children. I promise that you will be quite safe with him.” Logan says, blinking out the dizzying nausea. He frowns in distaste. Maintaining a physical presence is annoying and draining. This is why he seldoms ventures out to the physical realm if he can help it. 

“Now shall we?” Logan asks, shouting over the blizzard at this point. Virgil huddles closer, burying his head into Logan’s robes, away from the roaring blizzard. Logan’s robes become wet with tears. Logan places a tentative hand on the child’s back. \

Then he pulls both of them away--their physical forms dissolving completely. They reappear in a dwelling in the depths of the astral realm. A calamity of voices greets them. A kind, older one overlaid by two energetic young ones. 

“--you two shouldn’t go off without permiss--”

“Logey, Logey!” The two young voices say in unison, as a set of green and red blurs come dashing towards Logan’s direction. The green one looks human enough except for their bottom half made up of swishing, swirling tentacles. The red one sports shimmery see-through wings and insectoid eyes. 

The child presses closer to Logan, his heart rate accelerating by a substantial amount. In response, Logan draws his limbs around to shield Virgil while holding one hand out in warning. He supposes new faces, especially inhuman ones, is frightening for the young child.

“Remus, Roman,” He says, breathing labored, “I ask we forgo the usual hug-tackle just this once.”

The saplings stop short, their faces flashing with confusion. One of them opens his mouth to protest, but a blue pair of hands with talon-like nails rest on each of their shoulders.  

“Logan, what’s going on?” Patton asks, “shouldn’t you be slumbering still?”

Logan doesn’t answer him at first. He glances down, craning his neck towards Virgil. “Would you like to meet my friend?” He whispers lowly. Virgil tightens his grip on Logan’s robes but nods. Satisfied, Logan draws his limbs back, revealing the child to Patton and the saplings. Twin gasps erupt from Remus and Roman.

“This is Virgil.” Logan informs them, “Virgil, this is Patton and his sons--”

“I’m Remus and this is Stinky!” Remus says, thrusting his thumb towards his brother.

“No I’m NOT! My name’s Roman!” Roman shrieks, his indignation however is quickly forgotten as he holds out a hand towards Virgil, “Hey you want to play knights and dragons? You and I can be the knights!”

“No fair! I want him to be a dragon with me!” Remus stomps his foot. Roman glares back and it seemed like the two were on the verge of a wrestling match when a tentative voice speaks up.

“Can I...can I be a dragon knight?” 

Remus and Roman stare at Virgil, who mostly hidden himself behind Logan at this point. Just a purple tuft of hair and eyes are visible.

“That’s...that’d be cool!” The twins say in unison. It’s times like then that Logan is reminded they were once one; Romulus. Once a highly respected river spirit until humans’ actions caused him to split and reform anew.

“Why don’t you three go along and play in the fort? Logan and I have some things to discuss.” Patton suggests, smiling brightly. Too bright. Logan withholds a shudder. 

Remus and Roman don’t protest, too excited at the prospect of a new playmate. Roman extends a hand towards Virgil, who looks up at Logan in askance. 

“Well, go on.” Logan raises an eyebrow, “it is alright.”

Virgil takes Roman’s hand and the three are gone in a blink of an eye. So has Patton’s smile. 

“Logan--what have you done?” 

“What do you mean?” Logan deflects, gritting his teeth. He extends a few limbs, looking for something to steady himself with. A warm pair of arms steady him, guiding him to a chair. Trust Patton to help even in the midst of being upset.

“Don’t. Not right now. Virgil--he is a part of you, I can sense it. But he isn’t--”

“The human village near my forest sent him as a sacrifice.”

Patton almost lets go of him, “You didn’t!”

“Of course not,” Logan rolls his eyes as he sits down in the chair with a grunt, “but I couldn’t send him back there or leave him completely alone to die. Humans can’t survive our realm, you know this. Integrating his soul as a part of me was the only option.”

“And the village?” 

“I’ve taken care to make sure they get what they justifiably deserve.” Logan answers, closing his eyes as he shares a vision with Patton. 

For a fleeting second, he sees flashes of the forest marching among the white visage of a raging blizzard. Flickers of drab buildings caught in gnarled branches being torn apart. A hundred voices screaming in terror. 

He opens his eyes and sees Patton again. The air spirit regards him with raised eyebrows and a small frown tugging at his lips. Not quite approval, nor disapproval.

“You plan to look after Virgil, then?” 

“No, of course not,” Logan says, “I thought that was rather obvious. You are good with saplings--I am not. Besides you are always saying how it’d be nice to have around a peer Roman’s and Remus’ age for their benefits.”

As to prove his point, several delighted laughter echoes from the children in the distance. Logan smirks, satisfied. He rises from his chair, desperate to return to his winter slumber, when Patton pushes him back into it. He is embarrassed that it was more of a gentle shove than anything else.

“Logan, you can’t just--you have a responsibility to Virgil! He is of you now, if you leave--it’ll be detrimental to both of you. Remember when Romul--when Remus and Roman first came into being, if separated it caused them--”

“This is different. I made sure to account for that,” Logan snaps, “Please Patton, could you at least watch over him until--”

 Logan stops abruptly as a pain burrows into him. After centuries of existence, Logan has experienced pain, both great and minimal. But he was not prepared for this type of pain. The aching, spluttering kind. He could not breathe. It was like he was drowning and being burned alive at the same time. But it isn’t oxygen he needs. It’s something else. And every second he isn’t reunited with this something, the pain only continues to worsen. 

“Dad! Dad!”

“Something’s wrong--”

“I didn’t hit him!”

“--hurt--”

Something is deposited onto his lap. A shaking, quivering Virgil. Who Logan had promised would be safe here. Not writhing in pain. Logan gathers his limbs around the child tightly. A low rumble like trees creaking in the wind emanates from Logan. A lullaby that forest spirits know well. A human might find it frightening. It does not frighten Virgil. He can feel the child relaxing in his hold, cries quietening. Virgil is not human anymore, after all. The pain ebbs away but still Logan’s focus remains on Virgil.

“Are you alright now?” Logan asks.

Virgil nods, hesitating.  “I’m sorry.”

Logan’s many eyes blink in confusion. He looks over to Patton and the twins, who he’d almost forgotten. Patton’s lips are pressed firmly together in a signature “I told you so” move. He is missing his usual gleam in his eyes, however. His gaze darts between Logan and Virgil before landing solidly on Logan. It doesn’t take him long to decipher what that means.

“What do you have to be sorry for?” Logan asks Virgil. 

“I did something bad--didn’t I? And you punished me so that’s why I--”

“No,” Logan cuts in, causing the child to jolt, “you did not do anything wrong. I should be apologizing to you. I inadvertently caused harm to you when I promised safety.”

“You mean it?” Virgil asks, his little eyes squinting up at Logan. There’s so much wariness and mistrust in those eyes. Too much for a child as young as Virgil.

“I do. I apologize for causing further harm to befall you. While it hadn’t been my intention, it still hurt you and so I take responsibility for it.” Logan tells him, bowing his head. It is a serious matter when spirits break a promise. He cannot blame the young sapling if he chooses to not to accept his apology. Especially after the hurt Virgil has already endured in his short lifespan. 

Logan is as old as the forest. He has seen many things and knows twice that of things in the world. Still, nothing quite prepares him for Virgil’s response.

“Okay,” The child says, and then, “promise you won’t leave me?”

He raises his head to look at Virgil. Doubt still dances in those little eyes, but so does hope. Logan wants to laugh. What a stubborn, brave thing to have. He’s still willing to trust Logan even though he’d broken his promise not even a hour after making it. It’s illogical, foolish yet heartwarming all the same.

“As long as the forest stands tall, I will be with you.” Logan promises, a much more serious oath than the first.

Then a small smile graces Virgil’s face and oh! Oh, for all his infinite wisdom, Logan does not know how to raise a sapling. How could he, when he had no mother tree? No one to nurture and nourish him as a young, vulnerable sapling? But he knows Virgil already has him wrapped around his roots. That upon sensing the child at his tree, his fate at once had been sealed.

For once not knowing something does not agitate him. In fact, as he wraps a limb over the child in a loose embrace, he thinks he does not mind it.

[shoichee]

May I request a matchup please?

I go with she/her and I'm Straight! Pretty outgoing at some point but mostly is that calm sunshine in the group (or that's what I've been told) I am a Virgo and an ENFP! You see where the energy is coming yes? Hehe

Anyways,Hobbies,, You can say almost anything fun. I love sports especially Volleyball and basketball. I definitely enjoy singing, drawing, painting, writing and so many things- I just can't stop haha!

Strength? The ability to talk to Everyone easily! Communication! I love interacting with people and I honestly think its one strong point for me! I usually get pissed at people easily but Somehow they turn around and become nice to me so It doesn't bother me much anymore!

Weaknesses,, Stress is the biggest one. I can't function straight with stress and I lose my control and focus. I get really vulnerable and weak under it and like,, oops. Also Insecurities are part of the whole thing but that goes with Everyone I guess.

My interests revolve around almost everything. Curiosity. Mhm. Oh and Also I LIVE for making Others feel better. No matter who I try to take care of Everyone around me and all. Even if other people thought they were bad and Hideous. I just give the person a chance and then,,,, I get easily attached. Help.

Ah, I am not the tallest but Is 5'475 tall? Hehe,, lets not talk about the rest- Long dark hair with some hazel highlights and slightly tanned skin.

Hmm what else. Ah yes! One main thing that I LOVE is Roller Coasters.

I hope that's enough?? Haha Hope you have a good day/night! Stay Hydrated!

I just saw that another anon Said that they forgot something and since mine is in the askbox I was wondering if It's okay to add some small things? Minor details? If so here are mine🥺 (I don't remember if I submitted as an anonymous or not but I'm the ENFP gal who has a lot of energy uhh Volleyball basketball gal?)

I am a big softie who EASILY gets attached to people/things/animals and even numbers. If I liked someone and they liked this specific number, this number is now one of my favorites. Colors as well. Anything that resembles someone I really like. Plushies? If anyone got me one I'm definitely cherishing it but best gifts would be colorsets. I love coloring so any color set makes me happy.

I am a total softie. I would appear to be confident and more mature but I have this soft side in me. (And that side who squeals and screams in horror movies as well) I cry while watching shows and Whatever happens that makes me happy makes me soft like 🥺

Food makes me happy as well (Idk I'm hungry had to put that in)

Sorry If that caused you confusion and if that was messy-

Hope you have a Lovely day/night Darlin!!💖💖

AHHHHH HI, I AM BACK AND READY TO DO YOUR MATCHUP FELLOW ENFP(and ENTP oof)  HERE TOO I RELATE KEKE YOU SOUND SO WHOLESOME AND SWEET JUST AHHHHHH– anywho….. I am…. Sincerely sorry I went on an unannounced hiatus–

Best Matchup…

Sakurai Ryō

listen, HEAR ME OUT

he’s an INFP first off, the butter to your ENFP bread and he’s a virgo too

he’d probably be intimidated by you first by how chatty you can get ✋😭 but he’ll always be in the background, noticing your presence, being that the very observant guy he is

but you’re always hanging around the basketball courts and he has that curiosity in him that he can’t bring himself to shake off

everyone calls you the oh so wonderful “calm sunshine” and the mega-softie that he can’t help but want to get to know you, but he doubts your reputation and rumors about you just a smidge bit when he sees you yelling your ass off at Aomine, because let’s face it, he brings out the worst sides in everyone LMAO and he’s NEVER OUTWARDLY NICE (Aomine—stop making things harder for everyone, I’m begging–)

of course, noticing Sakurai doing his own shooting drills many times while you hang around the courts, you’ve tried a few times to approach him to say a quick “hi” and a chat, but he IMMEDIATELY books it out the door every time, all while frantically chanting “sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry!”

you’re here like: “??????????? What did I do?”

it was by pure chance when you guys ended up in the same class that spring, I just know it

it was during a break when you, who were seated pretty close to Sakurai, couldn’t help but take a quick peek on his desk when you realized he was moving his pencil in a way that only an artist would do: he was drawing something

oh no… someone got a wee bit excited at that, totally not you right now or anything

even when he was half covering the paper while timidly sketching, you could totally see that he was drawing some manga panels and quickly outlining some dialogue bubbles

you made a suppressed delighted noise and he INSTANTLY scrambled to cover his sketch with his entire body on the damn desk and snapped his head up to look at the source of the sound: you

“Uh-uh..Uhm…! I’m sorry!”

“No, no!” you tried to reassure him. “I should be sorry for looking at your art without asking…”

“Oh…” he hesitated, before sitting properly again… though his arm still protectively covered the paper. “It’s fine… so…”

“But by the way!” you chimed. “I really love your art style! I draw too, so I was just really excited to see you did too, sorry if I scared you… I never meant to, ehe.”

he dares to try to glance at your figure at your giggle, but he immediately averts his gaze away in embarrassment… does he have an eensy crush on Touou’s “calm sunshine?” he doesn’t dare to even think

I would think for the next few weeks, you would be the one to initiate all the conversations with him in class, talking about manga and sharing your own drawings to make him feel better, even bringing up basketball as a topic frequently

he slowly becomes more comfortable with you, now realizing that you aren’t here to hassle/embarrass/bully/take advantage of him… poor guy

I suppose this is where your comforting side kicks in a lot more; you’re very protective of him in general, because LOOK AT HIM and tell me he isn’t the SOFTEST GUY YOU’VE EVER MET?

you’ve slowly led him to have more agency on himself + with others and have a little more self-esteem on all the encouragement and reassurance?? and you always try your best to make him feel better?

he likes that you’re the more “mature” and “put-together” one out of the two, you’re someone he can rely on in that sense

there’s gonna be a LONG TIME where he thinks he can’t be with you because he thinks he doesn’t deserve you—someone help this poor guy out

and you’re probably giving the most OBVIOUS signs that you’re smitten with him and everyone around you two are just slapping their faces like: “DUDE… you’ve GOT to be kidding me…”

fast forward where you’re probably the one who confessed and then you two get together

he’s surprisingly calm under large amounts of pressure (he has to, that’s his entire life on the courts), and when it’s with you (someone who he really, REALLY cares about) he’s willing to steel himself to be someone you can rely on during periods of high-stress and vulnerability

he gives sound advice, being really down to earth

as much as he has tons of insecurities on his own, when you have your own bouts of insecurities, he’s rushing to reassure you so adamantly and vehemently that it’s almost comical how passionate he is to dispel your negative thoughts

like, he understands you down to a T because he faces the same struggles himself

you BOTH can cry and squeal at all the types of movies together in a collective sobfest for movie marathons

bonus: there was a time when you gifted Sakurai a mushroom plush, as per his team’s suggestion… not knowing that they were snickering the entire time

“Wha-wha…? What’s with everyone associating me with mushrooms…?”

“Hm? I thought they were your favorite food? And your team told me you would love something like this…”

“Uh… erm… I guess… though I don’t think I’ve ever said any of that.”

a light bulb went off in your head, then a very large irk mark replaced it… you immediately turned and stormed off to find the conniving Imayoshi to yell his damn ear off… leaving a very confused Sakurai behind

his gifts for you on the other hand, are impeccable and well-thought out, always giving you art supplies and trinkets and plushes you might fancy

Runner-Up Matchup!

Kiyoshi Teppei

I was debating between Sakurai and him SO MUCH

let’s just say both are great matchups to you

Anyways, our local ENFJ here is just as sunny as you here

with you two together? godamn, it’s too bright looking at you two standing next to each other, flashing everyone the brightest smiles out there like there will never be rain (cue the sunshine anime sound effect with all of the yellow rays coming off of you two)

both of you guys are quite the conversationalists, livening up any place you guys go to

like… you guys are really similar to each other, no really

it’s not hard to believe for anyone that you two would become great friends and then accidentally fall in love with each other eventually, and it feels all too natural

the only thing that distinguishes him from you is his very strong will and strong mental state overall

he isn’t the “Iron Heart” for nothing

he would definitely keep you grounded on your feet when things get mentally tough, always being there to say the right things and help you relieve the stress through massages and doing some work for you (if he can); also canon because he does this for the Seirin team

and he’s always there to stop you from being too nice to people (especially if these people were vicious and awful to you one moment and then become nice to you the next)... or instead of stopping you from doing anything, he LETS you be nice and chatty, but while you turn around to leave/do something different, he gives them a quite threatening (knowing) smile of his own as a warning not take advantage of you

he’s… not adept with his hands in terms of arts and crafts, so while you stare at wonder at his basketball techniques, he admires your dexterity with a pencil and brush… you’re like the Renaissance goddess to him or something

“Please Teppei, It’s not THAT much of a masterpiece.”

“(y/n), you know you should give yourself some cre~dit.” He would cheekily say while mussing up your hair (he, in fact, quite loves that your highlights really do remind him of sun rays)

“Hey!!”

both of you are literally holding onto each other for dear life when you two thought it was a bright idea to sit down and watch a horror movie together; it’s canon that a horror movie caused him to develop a huge fear of rats… so I’m just saying

“(y/n)! You sing?? Wow, lucky me, getting free front-row seats.”

“And who said I sing for free?” you playfully chided, and he gave a good-natured smirk of his own

“I’m glad you asked, because I can be the instrumental backing to your vocals, so I’ll be technically working to support you, as always.” he reaches into his back pocket to pull out…

a harmonica

a fucking harmonica

“How am I gonna sing to THAT?”

“Let’s try it out, shall we, (y/n)?”

bonus: imagine the hellstorm the Kirisaki Daichi team is gonna get when you see Teppei in a horrible state after that match

Honorable Mention!

Kise Ryōto

did you say your interests revolve around everything??

did you say that you like to sing?

did you say you like to talk with people?

say less, for you have summoned the one and only Kise

canonically, Kise is pretty much the only guy with dyed hair (he actually has brown hair while everyone else has natural black), so when he spies your hair also being a bit different from the rest, he remembers your face

he noticed how sociable you are and how you got along with most people around school

and he finds you a bit more intriguing than your average person to be honest

why did I not put this guy at the top of your matchups? it all lies within his twisted personality

Kise, being an asshole that he is, would talk to you frequently and have you wrapped around his finger (YIKES, aka the people Teppei would warn to stay away from you)

I can already imagine the drama between the two of you and all the misunderstandings things are gonna cause–

see, you’re a great communicator, and contrary to popular belief, Kise really isn’t the best communicator at all—always keeping his real feelings to himself, accidentally assuming things at times, jumping to conclusions, hiding his motives at times

you’re an ultimate softie at heart and get attached really easily, and Kise at first, chalks you up as any other fangirl he’s met (OUCH)

and even when he finally reveals a more sinister side to himself, and you get pissed off and storm off, he’s a bit… thrown off… when you’re back to begrudgingly talk to him again the next time you encounter him

like, you guys will be going through 75282 hurdles before you guys truly see eye-to-eye with each other, but IF THAT HYPOTHETICALLY DID HAPPEN ALREADY…

you guys would be softies together!! he glomps on you, gets all childish on you, and you’re the sentimental person crying and being emotional

when you’re unbelievably stressed, he’s automatically by your side to support you and your needs

and when his team loses again in another match/tournament, and Kise is THIS close to crying again, you do everything you can in hopes of comforting him

people would probably look at you two and go, “eurgh, cheesy”

frequent karaoke night trips!!

you guys just share hobbies and try everything like it’s a trading card game

always going to the fairs and amusement parks to try on all the rides for fun

insanely tooth-rotting fluff in a nutshell if you can get past the huge initial obstacles

[shadow-assassin-blix]

A Picture is a Poem without Words

Chapter 13

A/N: Canon typical violence. Some spice at the beginning but nothing too detailed. I rewatched ep 2x06 and realized that Marta’s husband is named Diego. For the purpose of this fic, and to create less confusion, I have called him Antony. Dress is number 10 found here.  Gif from @scntacruz 

Pacho tags: @yungkvte @mcrmarvelloki

Everything tag: @mikeisthricedeceased

It had been 3 days since Blix had woken up. She had gone through her antibiotics and was now able to move a bit more freely.

The stitches were going to be removed today, and she couldn’t wait for it. The stitches were itching terribly.

When the doctor finally arrived, she was practically bouncing in her seat. It didn’t take him long to remove the stitches, with a small warning of ‘don’t do anything too strenuous.’

He left a moment later, and Blix spent a few minutes gently stretching. It was about 10am and Pacho had briefly left to go give his men some orders for the day. He came back in as Blix was about to stand up.

Pacho moved over to her, slowly. He stood before her, his hands cupping her face. He leaned down kissing her firmly and passionately.

She kissed him back with as much as enthusiasm. She started to lay back down onto the bed, her hands gripping his silk shirt tightly as she pulled him down. Pacho pressed his body against hers, and one hand moving down her body, while his other buried itself into her hair.

“I believe you mentioned something about spending the day between my legs?” Blix murmured against his lips.

“I did indeed. I plan on doing exactly that. Cleared my schedule and everything,” Pacho joked lightly as he moved down to press kisses to her neck, nipping here and there.

Blix giggled lightly at that, a moan escaping her mouth as he bit a particularly sensitive area.

He paid intense attention to that spot, as his hand slipped under her cotton shorts. His hand slid past her panties, his fingers running up and down her slit.

She moaned lightly at his teasing, her hips jerking up wanting more. They removed their clothes with some urgency, the both of them sliding under the covers.

The two of them spent most of the day either chasing their highs or simply lying next to one another, enjoying each other’s company.

The next day rolled around and the two of them finally untangled themselves from each other. They showered and dressed, before heading downstairs.

Gilberto & Miguel were downstairs waiting for them discussing next steps.

“Ah. Blix, lovely to see you moving about more freely. I hope you are feeling better?” Gilberto greeted her cheerfully.

“Yes, much better. What are our plans?” Blix asked them as they walked into the dining room to have breakfast.

The four of them sat down to eat and talk. As Blix made her plate, Diego appeared next to her, and after quickly kissing her head, he sat down next to her.  Blix smiled softly at him, telling him good morning.

Gilberto began to explain his thoughts to Pacho about next steps, as Blix checked her phone for missed calls. Upon seeing there was nothing there, she placed it on the table and listened to Gilberto.

“… Mrs. Moncada has reached out to Don Berna. I suspect she is attempting to make as many allies as possible to hurt Escobar. We will let her do whatever she pleases. Our priorities will be taking over his production lines and starve him of money,” Gilberto informed them.

“Where do we begin with that?” Blix asked him curiously.

“We’ve already begun. We are taking out his production sites, starting with the ones Mrs. Moncada informed us about to the ones Escobar doesn’t think we know about,” Miguel spoke up.

She nodded her head in understanding, glancing down at her phone when she saw it was going off. She answered it, standing up and strolling into the living room.

“Hey Javi, what’s up?” She greeted.

“We have a new colonel. Martinez. And the ambassador has insisted that DEA have an overseer. Messina. The ambassador is not too happy with any of the agencies currently. I would suspect he will be reaching out to you soon to bitch at you, just so you’re aware,” Javier warned her.

“Good to know.  What’s Martinez like?” She asked him.

“An ass. Extremely by the book. I have never felt more frustrated with Search Bloc. Hell, I’ve never felt more frustrated in general. I… hmm. I have a terrible idea that may bite me in the ass later but… if it means Escobar goes down,” Javier said in an exasperated tone.

“What do you have planned Javi? Please don’t do anything stupid,” Blix begged him softly.

She knew from experience that Javier would have half-assed plans that usually ended up with him being in all sorts of trouble.

“I’m going to reach out to some CIs and go from there. That’s all you need to know. I’m not going to risk your career by telling you too much,” Javier’s voice lowered as he spoke.

“Javi…” Her tone turned admonishing.

“Anyway, when you find yourself back over in Bogota let me know. We can go on that date,” Javier stated somewhat loudly.

“Do not use me as your cover,” Blix growled at him, hearing chatter in the background.

“Yeah, see ya soon sweetie,” He ignored what she said and hung up.

“That motherfu-” She groaned staring down at her phone.

Blix sighed heavily, as she pocketed her phone, and running a hand down her face in frustration.

She returned to the dining room, re-taking her seat. The brothers had continued to talk out their plans with Pacho and she half listened to them. Blix was far too distracted to fully pay attention.

Halfway through one of Gilberto’s explanations his phone rang, and he answered it excitedly.

“Good morning Marta, light of my life. What can I do for you?” Gilberto greeted.

He listened to her for a moment, before passing the phone to Blix.

“She apparently wants to speak to you,” He stated as he held it to her.

Blix took the phone, “Hello Marta. What’s up?”

“Hi. I need help. We moved up the wedding and I am freaking out over what to do. My mothers are driving me nuts and I cannot stand their opinions no more. Please help,” Marta sounded close to tears as she spoke.

“Okay. Tell me where you are and I’ll be there,” Blix said calmly as she stood up again.

“I’m at my father’s favorite home, thank you so much,” Marta vaguely explained, hanging up.

“Uhh. Okay. Gilberto? Which of your 10 mansions do you consider your favorite?” Blix asked him as she placed his phone on the table.

“Navegante will take you. I assume it has to do with her wedding plans?” Gilberto waited for her nod. “I assumed so. She has been panicking over the plans for the past week.”

“Vagueness runs in the family I see. ‘Kay. Just gonna go grab my bag I guess… as I’m led to an unspecified location. Not like that ever turns out terribly for anyone in a horror movie,” Blix mumbled as she made her way upstairs to grab her bag and some shoes.

Blix, after grabbing her things, stepped outside and got into the waiting vehicle that held Navegante and Maurice.

It took about an hour and a half for them to get there. Blix stared up at the house with an eyebrow raised as she took in the grand home.

“This man…is ridiculous…” Blix said quietly, shaking her head.

Blix strolled up to the front door, smiling at Marta who was waiting for her.

“Alright. What’s wrong?” Blix asked her as they stepped in.

“So, a great deal of it is taken care of, but so many small details need to be taken care of,” Marta began leading her to the backyard porch, to a table that was covered in books and samples.

The two of them tackled each item: place settings, decorations, dresses, accessories and the like. The entire process took about 4 hours to get everything decided and ordered.

“Now, what else do we need to do?” Blix questioned her as they finished up.

“Well. I was hoping… would you be willing to sing our first dance song?” Marta quietly requested.

“You want me to sing… for your wedding?” Blix clarified, staring at her surprised.

“Yeah.  I love the way you sing. Plus, I’m sure Pacho would love to hear you sing as well,” Marta teased lightly.

Blix shook her head at that, before replying, “I’ll sing one song. That’s it.”

Marta squealed happily and hugged her, yelling, “Thankyou!Thankyou!”

Later that week, while at Pacho’s place, the news reported the first murder committed by Los Pepes.

Blix quietly listened to the news report, glancing at the men around her who appeared unbothered by the grisly murder.

Blix slipped outside, as she called Javier. However, there was no answer, which said to her that he knew she’d be upset with what had happened and was avoiding her.

Over the next several weeks, Los Pepes became embolden and were murdering Escobar’s men left and right.

Gilberto drew the line when the latest macabre display took place at a Christmas light show, where small children saw the scene.

Gilberto attempted to reach out to Judy Moncada to talk to her and Don Berna about the murders. To tell them to tone them down.

Unfortunately, they no longer cared about the Cali Cartel; they were focused on exacting their bloody revenge on Escobar.

Blix spent most of that time helping Marta with wedding plans and getting the venue ready. The wedding was this weekend, and time was of the essence.

Marta insisted that everyone get their hair and nails done the morning of the wedding. Pacho, who was not expecting guests at 6am, stared at the bride to be with some confusion when she appeared in the doorway of his bedroom.

“Hello uncle! Can you please make sure Blix is up and downstairs in 15mins? We have a busy day today!” Marta said cheerfully.

Pacho raised an eyebrow at her, before glancing down at Blix who was buried in his blankets and pillows, Diego laying half on top of her.

“Was she aware of these plans beforehand?” Pacho inquired as he looked back at Marta.

Marta gave him a toothy smile, before disappearing.

“That’s a no,” Pacho answered to himself.

“My love? My beautiful shark? You have to wake up,” He gently spoke, kissing her shoulder.

“….why? wedding not until tonight?” Blix grumbled, shaking her head.

“I know but… Marta made plans apparently… and she’s downstairs waiting for you,” Pacho informed her, pulling the pillow she tried to hide under away from her.

Blix lifted her head up, eyes blearily staring at him.

“What do you think would happen if I said no?” Blix asked him, turning her gaze to the doorway.

“Marta would be upset, and cry which would then upset Gilberto and he would make you go through with it anyway using threats,” Pacho answered.

“… so my chances are good?” Blix questioned jokingly.

Pacho chuckled, “Get up. It won’t be that terrible. I’ll see you later on.”

Blix quietly crawled out from under Diego, who had flopped onto her back at some point during the night. Blix learned very quickly that Diego was the kind of person who very rarely slept in one spot all throughout the night and very much like to spread out and take as much of the bed possible.

Blix, who was crawling over Pacho to get out bed, mumbled, “This better not be terrible, or you are making this up to me.”

“I had already planned on it. I look forward to seeing you in the dress Marta picked for you. She says it’s quite… salacious,” Pacho teased her, kissing her on the cheek.

Blix simply rolled her eyes and changed out of her night clothes into some shorts and a tank top, with some flipflops. She wasn’t going to get overly dressed up for a day of hair and makeup. She stepped into the bathroom, brushing her hair and teeth. As she walked downstairs, she clipped on her shark necklace.

Marta smiled at her and said, “Good morning! We are going to have a wonderful morning and then tonight is going to be amazing!”

Blix smiled softly at her, still trying to wake up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

The next several hours were a whirlwind of hair, nails, and makeup. By the time, they were ready to put on the dresses, it was late in afternoon/almost evening and Blix was exhausted. They had arrived at the venue and were doing last minute preparations.

Blix had finally put on the dress that Marta insisted she wear, with red pumps to match. She stared at bejeweled bodice of it that had a nude material backing it to give it some modesty. The dress itself was made to fit her like a glove, so even without proper shoulder straps it was able to stay in place.

Her hair had been done up in a high bun, her makeup as bold as the dress.

“Marta, I thought all eyes were supposed to be on you? Not on me looking like I stepped out of a romance novel?,” Blix lightly joked.

“Ahh. The beauty of it is though… if all eyes are on you no one will pay attention if me and Antony slipped away for some alone time,” Marta whispered conspiratorially.

Blix chuckled at that, “I see. I’m the distraction.”

Marta nodded, causing the two of them to giggle some more. Marta turned and looked at herself in the mirror in her wedding gown, nervously running her hands over the material.

“What’s up?” Blix asked her, standing beside her.

“The wedding jitters everyone warned me about. I always thought I wouldn’t get them, because I love Antony so much. But I am feeling them now,” Marta responded, trying to take a deep breath.

“I’d say that’s pretty normal. This is a big step in your life. It’s not an easy one to take. No one would blame you if you decided to postpone. That boy worships the ground you walk on, and if you said you wanted to wait, he would do it. So, tell me. Do you want to wait, or do you want to go marry the man you love?” Blix posed the question to her, smile on her face.

Marta took a moment to calm herself before smiling and nodding at the mirror, “I don’t want to wait.”

“Alright then, I’m going to go take me seat. I’ll see you out there honey,” Blix stated as she stepped out into the hallway.

Gilberto stood nearby, waiting to walk her down the aisle.

“Hey, give her a minute. The wedding jitters have hit her. She may need some words of encouragement too,” Blix said to him, stopping in front of him.

“Ahh. I had a feeling they would hit her soon enough. I’ll go check on her,” Gilberto replied with a knowing smile. “Blix. If I may say so, you look beautiful. I get the feeling you are going to knock Pacho off his feet.”

Blix smiled, feeling her cheeks warm up as she made her way into the main hall. Her seat was next to Pacho near the front. She made her way down the aisle, spotting Pacho with Miguel and Antony.

Miguel was the first to notice her, and nudged Pacho on the arm, motioning to look her way. Pacho turned to look at her and stared at her in awe.

“Hi. We should probably take our seats, it should be starting soon,” Blix noted, as she got near them.

Pacho quietly led her to their seats, his eyes roving up and down her figure. He eventually leaned over, pressing a kiss to her cheek.

“You look like a goddess in this dress. I cannot wait to see what it looks like on the floor as I worship you tonight,” Pacho whispered into her ear. “Who knows? I may not even wait till then.”

Blix cleared her throat softly, turning to meet his gaze. She gently gave him a kiss on the lips and whispered for him to behave.

He smirked at that, wrapping his arm around her shoulders, keeping her close to him.

The ceremony began 15 minutes later and lasted for about an hour. Pacho noticed during the ceremony, that Blix was not one who cried easily; many got teary eyed during the vows. He noted at one point that she had looked down at her own left hand, her gaze blank. He desperately wanted to know what was running through her mind, but knew he wasn’t going to get an answer anytime soon.

He reached over and held her hand in his, while the ceremony continued.

When it was over, they all headed to the reception to celebrate.

Miguel was the last family member to give a speech. Pacho looked around trying to find Blix, who had disappeared a few minutes after they had arrived.

“Good evening everyone,” Came her voice on the microphone. “For those of you who don’t know, my name is Blix. I am a friend of Marta’s.”

Everyone turned their attention to her, as she stood on the dance floor directly in front of the bridal party.

“A few weeks ago, Marta asked me a very important question. She asked me if I could sing the first song of the night. I agreed on the condition that I got to choose the song. She was a bit… hesitant to say the least. In fact, I had to bargain with her… a trait I am most definitely positive she got from you Gilberto,” Blix joked.

Several people chuckled, as Gilberto stared at his daughter with pride, pressing a kiss to her head.

“Per her request, she got to choose what I am wearing, hence why I look I belong in a telenovela or a romance novel,” She gestured to her dress with a wave of her hand. “And I get to choose the song to start our evening.”

Blix looked back toward the band who gave her a thumbs up to say they were ready to go. Antony, who knew what the song was going to be, led Marta to the dancefloor. Blix took up a spot in front of the band, looking at the couple with a smile.

“This is going to be a cover version of an oldie,” She hinted, softly clearing her throat.

The music began, and everyone stared at her curiously trying to figure out the song before she started to sing. Antony and Marta began to sway softly to the music, Marta was tearing up slightly as she recognized the song. It was one of her favorite songs

As Blix sang, her gaze moving about the crowd. Her eyes eventually locked onto Pacho’s who was smiling softly at her. She sang a couple of lines, keeping her eyes on his, subtly singing to him.

She broke her gaze away once she got closer to the end, moving it back to Marta and Antony. When the song ended, the crowd clapped and cheered. Marta after hugging Antony, strolled over to Blix to throw her arms around her in a huge hug. Blix hugged her back.

Blix handed the microphone to one of the band members who took over and began to play the playlist that Marta gave them.

Blix after giving her congratulations to the happy couple, made her way over to Pacho. She collapsed not in the empty chair next to him, but onto his lap.

“I am exhausted,” She said with a small yawn.

“Don’t fall asleep just yet… we still have to get through at least another hour before we can slip away unnoticed,” Pacho informed her.

Blix quietly nodded, before the two of them got up to get food and mingle. The party was in full swing, and she was standing near the brothers listening to them as they told stories about Marta. Blix noticed out of the corner of her eye, that Marta and Antony had slipped outside.

She smirked, turning to look over at the wedding cake. Blix tilted her head as she looked at it. Something about it wasn’t right, she just couldn’t put her fingers on it. She shook her head, thinking she was being paranoid.

If only she had listened to the paranoia.

One moment she was talking to Gilberto, the next all she could hear was a sharp ringing. She was aware of something on her legs, pinning them down, and several screams and shouts. Blix opened her eyes trying to focus on something, anything. Her vision was blurry, all she could see was disfigured shapes and splashes of colors.

A voice was calling her name, growing louder as it moved closer. The weight on her legs disappeared as a face came into view. It took several blinks for her vision to clear, and she was able to see Pacho’s face staring down at her.

“I’m starting to think someone out there wants me dead,” Blix mumbled as Pacho helped her sit up.

Pacho chuckled weakly at that, whispering, “You’re okay.”

The two of them slowly stood up, looking over each other, inspecting the damage. Blix could see several bruises on his face, and blood coming out his ear. He grasped his left arm, that she assumed he had landed on.

Pacho, looking her over, could see some blood coming from her nose, with various bruises on her body. He noticed she was favoring her left leg, probably due to the dead body that had landed on her right.

The two of them looked around, as Miguel made his way over to them, holding his shoulder. The three of them found Gilberto, and after making sure Marta and his family was okay, sent everyone home or to the hospital. The 4 of them somehow made it to one of Gilberto’s home, each of them covered in soot with some sort of injury.

The four of them made it into his office where Gilberto collapsed into a chair and stared off into space. Pacho lit a cigarette and Miguel stood there with his arms crossed.

Blix had one of the guards grab a first aid kit so she can fix everyone’s injuries. She set the kit on the coffee table, before going over to Gilberto’s glasses and decanter of whiskey. Her hand trembled for a moment, and she shook it thinking that would steady it before grabbing the decanter and pouring everyone a drink.

Blix passed them out once they were all poured out, and Miguel nodded his head in appreciation. Gilberto took the drink, blinking slowly.

Pacho took the drink after taking a drag of his cigarette. Blix took her place next to Pacho, leaning against a chair.

“That man… has no decency,” Gilberto began, standing up. “To attack my family like this… my daughter on the night of her wedding. Only a madman would do that. A crazed animal, dangerous.”

A moment passed, as Gilberto began to shake with fury.

“I want him dead. Not next year. Right now. Kill all of them. I don’t just want you to kill his lawyers, accountants, and bankers… I want you to kill his secretaries, anyone who lifted a finger to help that man. I want to see them dead,” Gilberto’s once calm voice began to shout. “ANYONE WHO HAS EVER LICKED A POSTAGE STAMP AND PUT IT ON AN ENVELOPE IN HIS NAME, I WANT TO SEE THEM DEAD! AND THEN I WANT YOU TO FIND ANYONE WHO EVER SHOOK HIS HAND AND KILL THEM TOO!”

Miguel during his tirade, placed his hand on his shoulder, nodding his head quietly.

Pacho paced slightly, fury on his face as he took another drag of his cigarette.

“That son of a bitch. From this night, we’ll show no mercy,” Gilberto declared with a shaky breath.

Blix looked at the 3 of them, knowing there was nothing she could say in this moment that could help them. There was something she could do however as she quietly guided each of them to a chair. Grabbing the first aid kit, she began to tend to their injuries softly. All 3 tried to wave her off, but a firm look from her made them back down.

“Can’t rage war against Escobar, if you let your injuries go untreated,” Blix murmured to Gilberto as she looked over his wounds.

Gilberto sighed heavily and allowed her to tend to him, along with Miguel. Pacho didn’t complain, having learned his lesson from the last time he had been injured.

Once all 3 were patched up, Pacho turned the tables on her and insisted that she let him look over her injuries. She let him tend to her minor injuries with a small sigh.

A few minutes later, her and Pacho were stepping out of the office. Diego greeted them; his face full of concern as his gaze roamed over the both of them.

“We’re fine. Could’ve been worse to be honest,” Blix assured him as the 3 of them walked out to a car, to drive home.

After the both of them took a shower, and changed into cleaned clothes, Pacho went to bed, Diego trailing behind him. Blix sat in the living room, not ready to go to bed just yet.

It was late in the night, and Blix couldn’t sleep. She stared at the proposal that Gilberto had drawn up and given to her the day before to give to the ambassador. With a heavy sigh, she called him not caring that she will probably be waking him up.

“Ambassador… I need to talk to you… and the CIA. The Cali cartel want to make a deal,” Blix began.

The next morning, in the early hours, she had flown out to Medellin, proposal in hand. The trip to the embassy didn’t take long, but it sure felt like time was moving slowly.

Blix stepped into the ambassador’s office, her face blank as she took a seat next to Stechner. She was grateful to have thought about putting on makeup this morning to hide her bruises, to lessen questions.

“So. Cali wants to create a bargain, eh? Is that what you’ve been doing with your free time Agent Lage? Hanging around cartel members?” Stechner said in a mocking tone.

Blix ignored him, as she pulled out the documents that Gilberto and the other Gentlemen had signed, setting it on the ambassador’s desk.

“Listen. I am well aware that no one here is innocent when it pertains to the Cali. I would know, since Gilberto informed me that the both of you are on his payroll. This meeting was bound to happen soon enough, so cut the crap. Let’s get this show on the road,” Blix spoke calmly.

“So, Gilberto wants free reign for 6 months after the death or capture of Escobar, and all 4 are willing to turn themselves in?” Ambassador Crosby asked in clarification after spending some time reading it over.

“Yes. All four of them have agreed to turn themselves in 6 months after Escobar’s death, or capture, without interference from law enforcement. No interruptions to production lines or sales. They spend 6 months making themselves rich, and then they’ll gladly let us arrest them,” Blix explained further.

“What about your bestie? Pena? Don’t think he’ll be too happy to know you made this deal for them. What are you going to about that?” Stechner questioned looking at her.

“Currently? I don’t care. He’s not focused on Cali. When that time comes, I’ll tell him the same thing I am telling you. It’s one less cartel. Who cares how it’s done?” Blix nonchalant answer disguised her worry.

She knew one day she would have to face Javier about her decisions, but it was not going to be anytime soon. She would deal with it when the time came.

Stechner stared at her somewhat impressed, “Living in Cali definitely made you more cutthroat. If you ever think about switching agencies let me know.”

Blix rolled her eyes at that, and watched as the ambassador approved the proposal, making a phone call to the president of Colombia. A few minutes later and the signed document was being filed away, signed by all in the room.

Blix stood up preparing to leave, when the ambassador stopped her, “Agent Lage, the annual Christmas party is tonight. You should come.”

Blix nodded once, making her way out into the hallway. Stechner sauntered outside beside her, his hands in his pockets.

“So, tell me… How is Mr. Herrera? I’ve noticed you no longer have been living in that lovely little townhouse of yours. However, I guess it is hard to stay there after Escobar’s men destroyed your door,” Stechner commented as the two of them walked toward the elevator.

“I’m not dignifying that with an answer,” Blix replied, shaking her head.

The two of them stepped onto the elevator, Blix not sparing him a glance.

“Not sure what happened recently for you to come forward about this deal suddenly… however… I hope you are prepared for the potential fallout if anyone else finds out about your relationship with him,” Stechner warned her.

Blix continued to ignore him, walking forward once the elevator doors opened. Blix was well aware of the consequences; she currently did not care about them.

Blix checked in with her team.

“What’s happening guys?” Blix asked them as she stepped into the office.

Theo, Cynthia, and Robbie all looked up from their desks, before grabbing files, holding them out to her.

Blix took all of the files, with a short laugh. They filled her in on current assignments they were working to help DEA. Cynthia & Robbie traded off on who monitored the airports. Theo listened to chatter and translated phone calls. She took a seat, going through each file and approving them when she was satisfied with the work. The work took about 2 hours before she sent off the files to various other departments to be filed.

Once she got caught up on paperwork, she left the embassy. She was not in the mood to go to another party, so she hopped on a plane back to Cali.

Returning home, she smiled softly at Pacho who was on the phone giving out orders. He finished up his call as he spotted her walking toward him.

He leaned down, kissing her softly.

“So… I was thinking you and me could go out for dinner this evening?” Pacho suggested as he straightened up.

“I like the sound of that. What are our plans to deal with Medellin?” Blix inquired as the two of them strode over to his corvette.

“I’ll tell you later this evening,” Pacho answered her, driving her into the city.

While the two of them ate, Los Pepes with the new knowledge being fed to them from Cali, attacked the Medellin cartel hard. Pacho eventually informed her of what was going to go down, and she had a feeling that this war was going to get bloody on both sides.