#if a scary cozy monster accompanies me

[aka-indulgence]

I’ve been thinking of a combination of two ideas, I think one I’ve only mentioned on once on my tumblr

It stars of as a “HT!Sans scares you and stalks you a little” fic, where he lives in your area and you see him in your day to day. You’ll find him across the road, at the bus stop, behind you a couple nights, the grocery store. And oftentimes you find him openly staring at you. You hear he isn’t the friendliest guy in the neighborhood, doesn’t trust anyone and doesn’t speak much. You don’t think you’re a “judge a book by the cover”, but he genuinely unnerves you… maybe because his sockets widen and he starts breathing heavily when he’s looking at you. You barely interact with him aside from a few close encounters where he’s said nothing to you and you wonder if he wants to kidnap you, eat you, or both.

And that’s where you’re at with him when an unexpected disaster strikes: zombie apocalypse situation :O AGH (I hate zombie apocalypse stories but thinking about being with ht!sans makes me feel safe :3)

I imagine you’re somewhere public like the supermarket when it hits you, a (small?) hoard crashes into the store and starts attacking people. You don’t have a lot of things on you and you’re in the middle of your grocery run, you aren’t exactly alert or prepared when the bodies that refuse to die start going at you. You manage to run for a bit but you reach a dead end as they close in…

And HT!Sans shows up.

As soon as he realizes what’s happening, instead of running away from the hoard he runs into it, knowing you’re there, barreling through the rotting undeads, fighting to get you.

He takes crashes onto the scene, taking out the ones that had been tailing you. A beat passes where you pant in silence, staring at the hulking skeleton with the single red eye looking down at you. He looks like he wants to kill. You wonder if he was a worse monster than the zombies were. A sound sends him back into action, scooping you and throwing you over his shoulder like a potato sack, and runs out.

He takes you to a of survival bunkers he’s set up (a big shed thing with all the tools he needs to survive in the wild). He sets you down gently, and he asks you: … you… ok?

You find out he wasn’t trying to kill you. He tells you as such. He’s a gentle giant with you who wants to protect you. You crumple into him and sob just from the overwhelming situation… Sans’s mind kinda. Explodes for a moment. Because the little human he’s been pining on is hugging him.

Then after that the fic is you surviving with him. Had a scene where you have to take shelter somewhere not ideal, and you can hear a hoard nearby, and all you can do is hide in Sans’ hoodie and stay very still and quiet while he keeps watchful eye on the shamblers. Maybe going back to find your stuff at your home. Reuniting with Papyrus after being separated in the evacuation when Sans runs back to get you and tells him he’ll meet him at the camps. Making zombie shelter community, all that good stuff.

All I wanna say is, in zombie apocalypse, ht!sans is ideal

[formulawolff]

gg stays the night at Toto’s when he has Jack for the weekend… Jack wakes up with a nightmare and gg offers to put him back to bed, sharing some quality time together and in this interaction, gg imagines children of her own in the future, something she would’ve never considered before

i am so sorry!!!

i just now got to this!!!

but i wanted to write a little blurb about it! i hope you enjoy it! <3

"papaaaa!"

a cry floods the room, bringing you out of your slumber. you stir, gently shaking the figure dead asleep beside you. he grumbles, yet you persist, pressing light kisses all over his temple and cheeks.

"toto. i think it's jack."

"he probably had a nightmare," the words are slurred, thick with exhaustion, "i can go-"

"no," you rub your eyes, "let me see what's wrong. you stay here. you could use the sleep."

blearily, you shift, scooting to the edge of the bed. slipping your feet into cozy slippers, you stretch. carefully, you make your way through the dark room, cursing as you bump your knee against the rigid door.

"fuck."

"careful now, love. come get me if you need anything. don't let the monster under the bed get you too."

rolling your eyes, you shuffle down the hall. once you reach the destination, the third room on the right, you knock softly.

"jack, it's me. can i come in?"

"you're not my papa, but i guess you'll do."

as you make your way into the bedroom, you can't help but feel the little eyes searing into you. the poor thing is clutching his favorite plushie, a cream colored bunny. his name was hase, the german word for the animal. it was a gift from you months ago, as you wanted to treat the little one to something he could sleep with.

at first, toto was hesitant of the gift, but once he saw jack's eyes light up at the new plushie, he couldn't help but melt. you were in the same boat, your heart fluttering every time you saw the boy toting around the animal.

it was his newfound best friend. the one thing he carried with everywhere, no matter what. he even accompanied jack to karting weekends with susie, vacations with the family, and race weekends all across the world.

"is hase not doing a good enough job scaring away the nightmares?" you fold your arms across your chest, arching a brow.

"no," jack huffs, "will you do me a favor?"

"yes," you nod, yawning slightly, "what is it?"

"will you lay with me?" his eyes are bright, alight with a childlike fear, "just for a little while. papa and mama used to, but not so much anymore."

"maybe because they want you to be brave," you cross over to the closet, peering in before shutting it softly, "there's no monsters in the closet. don't worry, i peeked behind the hangers."

"good," jack chirps, "will you look under my bed too?"

since it was the weekend after a race, the last thing your knees wanted to do was squat or bend. yet, you obeyed jack's request, stifling a groan as you kneel to the floor, head bowing as you look under the bed.

no monsters there either.

"i have to report that there are no monsters. maybe they all left because hase scared them off."

"no," jack shakes his head, "they probably left because you're scary!"

"i'm scary?" you can't help but giggle as you burrow under the covers, the child cuddling into your chest.

"yeah," jack responds, "you're a world champion! you'd probably run them over in your car or beat them in a race. i would be scared of you too."

oh lord. the things that came out of that child's mouth.

"well," your eyelids are heavier by the second as jack's breathing slows, his arms clinging to you, "let's get some sleep then. i'll stay here, just for a little bit."

"how about you stay forever?"

"i can't do that," you press a tender kiss to his crown, "your papa needs me."

"well i need you too. you do a much better job checking for monsters than he does."

as the child dozes off, you can't help but feel your heart flutter. perhaps this wasn't so bad. you could definitely be a mom. if it came with moments like this, then fuck yes. you would definitely be a mom.

especially if your children resembled the love of your life.

an hour passes, toto wolff cursing as he rolls over, feeling a coldness in the space where you typically lay. tossing the sheets, he gets up, strolling down the hall.

as the door opens, he can't help but melt at the sight before him.

his son, fast asleep on his beloved golden girl, the two deep in slumber.

if only he had his phone.

[falcor-thee-luck-dragon]

Curious Travels - Geralt of Rivia x (f)reader

- reader is part of my Of Monsters and Men series

Summary: Yet again has your humble bard dragged you and Geralt to another kingdom for whatever reason, though as the snow falls outside, you know just how to keep warm.

Warning: fluff, SMUT, some actual plot

Masterlist

Jumping off of your own horse you’re immediately greeted with the soft crunch of snow under your boots. Your pack of three mighty adventures have traveled all this way to the wintery mountainside kingdom of Turga for, as Jaskier would say, “food, festivities, and fun times to be had”. Not being one to ever walk away from such intriguing tidings, you’ve made it a point to accompany Jaskier on his trek to the kingdom.

Geralt on the other hand could absolutely not be bothered in the slightest to come for such “fun times to be had” but he loves you and begrudgingly decided to follow the two of you anyways.

The whole ordeal of traveling had taken about a week, through forest and fields, streams to pass and bridges to cross, until finally at last your horses had reached snow. And more importantly the wooden post naming the direction of said mountain kingdom, causing your bard to become even more chipper and talkative then usual.

Much to your amusement and Geralt’s silent moody frustration, though he would have liked to smack the bard across his head or quite possibly snap that lute in two. Watching your face light up at Jaskier’s jokes and stories from before he met both you and Geralt, so far has kept the grumbly Witcher to himself, just being able to see your beaming face is enough to make this trip all the better.

Though he’s still doubtful anything fantastic will actually come out of this journey in any way, considering most travels with the two of you end rather poorly.

You’re eyes grew big once they spotted the snowy glowing city of Turga sitting comfortably atop a silver hill in all her beautiful glory. Jaskier wasn’t fooling, this place is absolutely magnificent, it’s like a true winter wonderland.

Great evergreens stand tall at the large wooden gates of the town, two guards dressed in silver armor and a red sash over their breast greet you three with generous smiles of welcome tidings that take you more off center then you’d ever expected. How strange it is not to be looked down upon, or scrutinized by people who always tend to think the worst.

Jaskier simply grins, clearly knowing something you and your grouchy Witcher do not, but what could that possibly be, then again it isn’t exactly abnormal. Following closely behind, you and Geralt lead your horses along the snow covered streets as Jaskier leads the way to the stables.

The whole time your eyes have been wide in awe at the beautiful surroundings of the town, lanterns held up by steel chains hang in a line above your heads. Dashing evergreens keep watch from their various positions in the square. Oddly enough the stables look cozy, decorative pines are hung at the front doors, and from the opened windows you can see on the inside that there are rafters kept along with ornamental little flags of a hundred colors.

Soon enough the face of a dirt smudge stable boy races out of the wooden door, a wreath on the back of it jostles at the quick unexpected movement. Although on further inspection you realize he is a sylvan once you notice the two hooves peaking out from under his oversized cloak, he smiles brightly at the three of you while his big shimmering eyes shine a soft pink as he shuffles through the snow to Jaskier’s steed.

“Vallo Vaskier! Hove yuv bveen!” Exclaims the boy in a peculiar accent with a smile that could light up a room.

“Oh you know..” Shrugs the bard, “A bit of this a bit of that. But here’s something....I have made some loyal companions on my travels, they’re a real time, it’s been great honestly...although a tad bit dangerous at times but eh I’m still breathing.” He laughs, “So anyways, when’s the grand feast at the lady of winters hall?”

The boys face turns into a thrilled grin, “Are you performing?”

Jaskier glances to you before turning back to the kid, “Of course I am. Didn’t just travel all the way up here for nothing. So uh, when’s the feast?”

“Oh, right the veast. You hev to be invited first. But I vouldn’t vorry to vuch, vord alveys spreads vhen you’re here Vaskier.” States the stable boy with a curt nod.

“Boy you got any taverns close?” He snaps his head up to you, curls bouncing in the process as he gives a shy smile before nodding.

“Of course mviss. Vaskier knows ver they are.”

A smirk plays at your lips as you find the bards gaze, “I should have know.” You mutter, turning your head to find Geralt, “Now to find that tavern.” You add suggestively with a quick wink. Causing your man to hand you the smallest of smiles in knowing acknowledgment. 

“Alright, Finn. Take this pretty lady to her home for the night. You’ve got two others who’ll need a stall.” States Jaskier as he nods to his horse, “And uh, the one with the scary face and white hair, be good to his mare. She’s very special to him, more then the half-vampire that rides with us and..Oh! Oww! Y/N don’t hit me woman!” Stammers the bard as you fold your arms across your chest.

A smirk upon your lips at his flustered reaction, “What was that about Roach being more special then me? You didn’t finish what you where going to say.”

“Well I would have if I wasn’t assaulted first.” Assures Jaskier, turning back to the kid, “Anyways, we’re ready to find our stead’s a place for the night. Well perhaps a couple nights, we may be here for a few days give or take.”

“A few days? He never said anything about that?” Grumbles Geralt in that familiar gravelly voice of his, “Y/N did he mention a few days?”

Grasping your horses leather reigns in one hand, you rest the other on Geralt’s broad cloaked shoulder, “Oh where’s your festive spirit? Come on love this is gonna be fun. I can feel it.”

Turning to follow Jaskier and the stable boy into the barn, Geralt tugs for Roach to start walking, rolling his golden eyes as he watches you swagger into the large pine rimmed entrance. Though a small tinge of excitement rushes throughout his body when remembering that subtle wink you shared with him only moments ago.

Your crimson irises light up at the colorful flags and cozy barn atmosphere, perfect for the tired horses that so desperately could use a good rest. You’re never this impressed by such festive decorations most times, but it’s been a long while since you’ve bared witness to such things. It feels rather nice, and anyways, another adventure with your boys is always welcomed.

The stable boy quickly takes Jaskier’s horse to get settled for the night, leaving yourself to find your own stable and Geralt to do the same. You turn, leading your own mare into a hay covered stall and doing what you can to help her feel more comfortable.

Taking off her saddle, you lay it off to the side, going now to brush her brown back, smoothing her fur down as you do. While so lost in your own little world you can’t help but begin rambling about your thoughts to the patient horse.

“Now since it’s come to mind...I think this place isn’t too bad, ya know? I haven’t really met any of the townsfolk so my true impression of the people here have yet to be determined. Although I’m not really getting a hostile feeling coming from this place so that’s good.” The mare snorts in reply, or at least you think she does, causing you to chuckle at the horses timely reaction, “Yes, my friend that’s exactly what I was thinking but you already new that and now I am talking to a horse.....and Geralt is standing right over there isn’t he.” You rush, whispering the last part to your horse.

Geralt leans his large frame against the wooden stalls door, a small amused smirk pulling at his lips as he watches you brush the mare. “Not strange at all. I think they understand, in their own way.”

“Maybe it’s because I travel with you too much, look at me, I’m talking to a horse.” You mutter with a small laugh, “Though I guess their company can be better then an actual persons. I have a feeling you know my meaning.”

He smiles again, looking around the barn until his golden eyes find yours once more, “Better then most.”

You gently tilt your head in a small nod, brushing the last of the mares ruffled hide before setting the brush down. Then reaching for your belongings that are hanging from a metal hook inches from Geralt.

He politely steps to the side as you take your cloak and sheathed silver dagger from off of the hook, bundling them under your arm you take a step forward past him, stopping for a moment to not-so-subtly trail your eyes up to his handsome face.

“See something interesting?” He muses, eyeing you up just the same causing a swarm of butterflies to make themselves know in your stomach. 

Biting your lip you refrain from pushing him against the wooden wall and kissing him like your life depends on it, deciding to instead hug your things tighter and give him a small fangy smile.

“Oh, you have no idea.” Is all you can whisper out as you swiftly turn on your heel to go and find Jaskier before you change your mind and pounce on your Witcher like a cat to her prey.

It doesn’t take long to find him, the bard is casually seated on some blocks of hay as he gently strums on his lute while the stable boy brushes his horse for him. Jaskier is so caught up in his own world of playing that he neglects to notice when you’re standing directly in front of him.

“Jask!” You vocalize loudly, causing the entranced bard to jump and just about drop his prized lute if not for the strap.

“My gods Y/N, warn a man would you.” He sputters, setting himself a bit straighter once again as he gathers his bearings, “I could have dropped my dear lady just now.”

Taking a couple steps backwards towards Geralt, you chuckle, “In that case, I’ll try harder next time.”

Jaskier sends you a silent dirty look, causing Geralt to slip a couple hushed snickers out from behind you. “Alright bard..” Starts your Witcher, “where’s the nearest tavern? Considering it’s late and we’re all hungry.”

Jumping to his feet, Jaskier nods, “Right. Right. Of course, a tavern would be nice. Well my friend...and Y/N...let’s go find one.”

“Yes let’s.” Mutters Geralt, annoyance lacing his voice as Jaskier practically swaggers past the two of you, lute tightly in hand.

You turn to follow, nudging Geralt’s shoulder as you step past him, “Come on my White Wolf, let’s find that tavern. I could use a good rest, how about you?” The wink you send him is all but enough to fill his mind with wondrous thoughts for how his evening may truly end.

His heart admittedly fills with warmth and excitement as he watches you trail Jaskier out of the barn and into the wintery night air. Soft cool snowflakes kiss your warm skin as you stand in the silver wonderland, waiting for your Witcher to catch up.

A pleased smirk shows itself upon your face as you turn your head up to the dark clouds, enjoying the feeling of the small ice crystals as they float all around you. The night is absolutely divine, as you enjoy the small white puffs of air leaving forth from out of your mouth and nostrils.

You feel no chill from the harsh winter air, though you’re surprised when a certain someone unexpectedly attempts to throw a snowball at your back. Hearing the ball of ice swishing in the crisp air, you step inhumanly quick to the side.

A burst of laughter falls forth from your lips when the snow crashes into the shoulder of Jaskier as he looks from house to house trying to remember where the tavern is. He jumps back, his blue eyes wide as he snaps his jostled attention over to you, and the snowy haired man smirking from behind you.

“That was—was....Y/N!” Grumbles the bard with an angry pout before he begins to smile and eventually shake with laughter as well.

Chuckling still, you turn a raised brow to Geralt as he simply shrugs, “Couldn’t help myself.”

“Yeah okay, Sir. I-Didn’t-Even-Want-To-Come...” Suddenly your eyes narrow causing Geralt to loose his amusement, “You tried to hit me with a snowball, you fucker.”

Geralt takes a cautious step closer to you, a pleading look crossing his features, “And now I know how well your reflexes are.”

“You already know how well my reflexes are.”

“Yes. But...” He pauses for a moment, trying to think of what to say next as you await an answer, finally he takes another step closer, bringing his hand to tilt your head up with the tips of his fingers. His face so close now you can feel his hot breath against your skin, “I’ll deal with your wrath all night long if that’s what you’d wish.”

Gently removing his hand away from your face, you lean in even closer, your lips practically brushing past his own, “I think that is a deliciously appealing proposition, my love.”

Geralt has no time to answer before you swiftly shift away from him, leaving the man with his thoughts and slightly tighter pants as he watches you walk over to Jaskier once again, knowing exactly what you’re doing to him.

It took about a good fifteen minutes to actually track down the tavern of Jaskier’s choice, an admittedly large and homey hall appropriately called The Silver Faun Inn. Quite the name for quite the tavern, as per usual when walking into anywhere on the continent in a place like this.

Your marry band of three was immediately greeted with a multitude of cautious glares and many other intrigued excited glances. Though to your relief, no one dares bother either of you while you make to find a quiet corner for the late hour of the darkening evening.

Soon fresh food and tasteful ale is to be had, filling the three of you up just enough to be satisfied for the night, but not too much, you’ve got plans for later. Plans that are so obviously unnoticed by the titular bard who’s now decided the tavern is in desperate need of entertainment.

Leaning into Geralt’s strong side, a lazy smirk upon your face, you watch in amusement as Jaskier joyously strums his favorite lute. “Don’t think I’ve heard that ballot before.” You whisper.

Your quiet Witcher hums in reply, earning him a light friendly squeeze to his forearm that rests on the table next to yours, “The enthusiasm radiating off of you is just, astounding.” You chuckle, burying your face into his shoulder.

Geralt smiles affectionately at your adorable reaction to his less then impressive one, his heart swells with more silent joy when you pull away once again. Only to stop yourself from speaking, your scarlet irises so caught up in your lovers humored face.

You remain quiet for a moment, your face stoic though your eyes crinkle with mischief before you finally break out into a large beaming grin. Without a second thought, Geralt leans in to gently press his plush inviting lips against yours for a beautiful moment of love and lust.

He feels so lovely, you can tell just how much he truly wants you, but all to soon does he pull away, “I think we should find that room, what do you say Y/N?”

Biting your lip, you stare longingly into his golden eyes, “Fantastic idea. I got the keys so let’s get outta here.”

In a heartbeat do the two of you slip from the taverns quiet corner to wander past your oblivious bard as he belts out another marvelous tune that sends the crowd into fits of song and laughter. Soon all is forgotten and left to the back of your minds as you lead your Witcher up the steps and down to the end of the hallway where your room just so happens to be.

Quickly going to unlock it, you’re bewildered when the little metal key won’t turn left, huffing in frustration you try and force it as gently as you can muster. Geralt leans an arm against the doorframe doing nothing to help you focus on your new task at hand.

“Y/N just turn it left.”

“I am turning it left.”

“More gently.”

“I am turning it gently.”

“How much did you drink?” He chuckles.

Snapping your head to him you playfully make a face, “Same as you idiot, now if only I could fucking get this bitch open then we could...” Errreck. Crack. “Oh fuck me.” You deadpan.

“I’m trying.” Muses Geralt.

Smacking Geralt against his arm you take a step away from the broken lock, “Dammit. I broke the fucking key....and I think the lock too.”

“Can you open it now?”

Sighing in annoyance you raise a brow at your man, “Well uh, guess we’ll find out.”

Turning towards the thick wooden mahogany door with its freshly broken lock, you nervously reach a hand up to turn the golden door handle, sucking in a breath you twist the knob only to be met with resistance.

Pursing your lips together you lean your head against the door, “Whoever made these shit locks I’ll fucking cut their hands off cause apparently they don’t need them anymore with whatever kinda fuckery this is.” You growl.

All you wanna do is get it on with Geralt, this is not helping.

“You could just force the door.” Suggests Geralt.

“I’m not forcing the door love, I really don’t need a bounty on me for breaking a knob.”

“Well, guess we’ll just have to sleep in Jaskier’s room tonight then.” Replies your Witcher with a shit eating grin, he knows just how much you want him right now. And so help you god if you don’t get what you want when it comes to a night with Geralt of Rivia.

“No! No! I can handle the fucking door!” You sass.

Taking a step back into the hallway, he folds his arms over his chest, “Alright then. Open the door Y/N.” Smirks Geralt, urging you to create some chaos.

Huffing, you take a step back, readying yourself to charge the grand mahogany door. The smirk on your Witcher’s face is admittedly smackable or kissable, you just can’t bring it in you to focus on anything else but opening this door. He watches in anticipation as you charge, hands out and ready to force open the closed entrance as you make hasty steps for the tavern room.

Without warning the giant door swings opens, taking you off guard as you fly through the new opening and into the grand room before falling to the hard floor with a grunt. Your chin smacks the wooden floorboards with a thwack sound, your opened palms doing just the same when you land.

“Ouch.” You mutter, lifting yourself up from the ground, turning when your nose catches the scent of someone new.

Snapping to your right, you’re caught with big brown fearful eyes of a young maid, “Oh, uh....your room is ready miss.”

Not aware of the less then friendly grimace adorning your face, Geralt steps into the room before you decide to shove the girl out yourself, “Sorry. The lock wasn’t working, I think we may have broken it.”

Quickly snapping out of her frightened trance, the girl turns a nervous eye to your Witcher, “Um, that key you have there...it’s not the right one. I’ll just uh....leave then.” She whispers, her eyes never leaving yours as she hastily slips out of the room and down the hallway.

Geralt gently closes the door, shoving a chair under the handle to create a makeshift lock while you take a couple steps forward over to the large mattress, resting a hand on the bed. He turns to you, “Well that was...”

“Entertaining much?” You scoff, rubbing your split chin, “I think I’m bleeding....no yeah, I’m definitely bleeding.”

Geralt hums, nodding before walking over to find a small spare cloth on the nearby table, “Sit on the bed I’ll clean you up.”

Doing just as directed you sit, watching as your silver haired lover walks across the room to seat himself next to you, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

Rolling your eyes you pout, “Funny is it? The things I do for you, and now my fucking chin hurts.”

Suddenly his eyes go soft, though there still remains a tinge of humor in them, “Y/N, you’ve already healed and the pain will die soon enough....here, let me just clean the blood away.” He mutters, reaching his arm up to press the pale cloth against your blood smudged skin.

Fine, ignore my pain you ass.

Though you’re still annoyed, the feeling of being tended to by Geralt is enough to dissipate away all your recent frustrations and brewing anger. Sending you into a blissful minute of staring lazily into your mans pretty golden eyes like a dazed lover.

Once he’s confident all the blood is gone, he sets the pink cloth in his lap, saying nothing as the two of you stare deeply into the eyes of one another, the sexual tension of the room rising by the second. You slip out a soft breath, the tiniest of smiles pulling at your lips.

“This is the part where you kiss my pain away. Right here.” You point at your chin, just below your lips. His golden eyes dart down, following your directions.

Ever so meticulously slowly does he lean in closer, the blood smudged cloth left and forgotten as it falls to the floor when his large hands go to touch your face. His lips press softly onto your chin, then cheek, then the other, and another two over your jawline. Earning a satisfied hum of approval from you, much to Geralt’s satisfaction.

Your own hands grasp onto his thick forearms, the rest of yourself feeling rather warm all over as Geralt kisses all over your face, slowly as ever.

“You know..” Kiss, “Geralt, mhmm....my lips are right here...” You mutter, just as he presses a heated one onto the preferred area you’ve asked. He tastes so sweet, like the ale he drank earlier in the evening, but this is admittedly much better then any ale you’ve ever drank.

Soon his hands fall to your waist and arm, then to many other places as he decides to explore your body with his calloused hands. Not being one to hold back, you do just the same, earning a low husky moan from deep within his throat when you palm him just to see what’s going on down there.

Fortunately he’s decently hard, the fabric of his dark pants are nicely stretched out from what pleasantries await you soon enough. Leaving him be for the moment, you gently break away from his sweet lips.

“Oh don’t give me that look.” You chuckle at the annoyed expression adorning his handsome features, “I’m just, rather wet down here and I’d like to get things rolling. Though don’t get me wrong I could kiss those lips of yours all fucking day.” You add, deliberately doing your best to give him your bedroom eyes.

He pauses for a second, his eyes trailing from your clothed nether regions all the way up to your shimmering lust filled gaze, “You’re already wet?”

Rolling your eyes you reach out to pull him further up the bed, “Oh fuck off, you’re already harder then a frozen ice cycle and that was before we even got into this room so shut uh uhh mhmm...” Is all you’re able to ramble out before he’s attacked your neck again with those beautifully plush lips of his, the rest of his body hovering just above you as he rests a knee between your parted thighs.

His lips leave a wet trail all the way down your throat until they reach the edge of your tops laced fabric, where a clear V is had that reaches down to the area between your breasts. He kisses once on the lace and exposed skin on your sternum, then another further down.

He’s just about driving you wild with the frustratingly grand lack of friction in certain areas that are so desperately craving such attention. Done with his teasing you lightly tug at his long white hair.

“Geralt just fuck me already.” You mumble, sucking in a quick breath when he gently squeezes your breast without warning.

Kissing your cheek, his face remains mere inches from your own as he stares mischievously into your crimson eyes, “We may need to take some clothes off first.” He chuckles, planting a quick kiss to your lips before sitting back on the bed.

Laying there, body hot and pulsing with pleasure unreleased, you hastily sit up and fumble as fast as you can to remove your grey top. Flinging it to the floor as your eyes find Geralt’s once again, though this time he’s completely shirtless.

Drinking up every last little piece of your muscular Witcher, you bite your lip as he smiles at you, “And that’s a sight I could look at everyday.” You just about swoon at his quick witted words, no doubt feeling a bit heated the longer he stares at you.

Winking at him, you swiftly shed the thin dark material calling itself an undershirt, a playful gleam in your eye as you watch Geralt quickly find your two exposed breasts. Beautiful and soft, your nibbles perked at the arousal coursing throughout your entire vessel.

Wanting to be bold, you wiggle a brow at him before confidently standing, your eyes never leaving his. He watches with an intrigued curious gaze before you begin unbuttoning your black trousers, earning another blissful smirk across the mans face.

Soon enough are all the buttons finally undone, with a spectacular dramatic bow do you then go to shimmy out of your pants, kicking them to the wooden floor in a rush as you’re now left in nothing but your small whole filled and slightly ripped underwear.

As to be expected, Geralt reaches a hand out to touch your exposed legs, getting nothing but a quick playful kick to his hands as you hum in disapproval. Instead you go to set a hand on your hip, nodding your head for him to remove his own concealing attire.

He hums in reply, standing to his full height as you unabashedly watch him fully undress himself, tossing his pants and undergarments to the floor ever so dramatically. He stares you down with those big beautiful golden eyes of his, you keep your sights locked onto them and painfully ignore his now exposed member that’s hard and dripping with pre-cum.

Biting your lip, you try your absolute best to keep from smiling, “Fuck me I love you so much.” You speak breathlessly, your eyes turning more serious again, “Now sit, please.”

Geralt hums, seating himself upon the soft billowy mattress just as directed, deciding to lean back on his arms and let his body lay open and ready for you. Blinking slowly you finally reveal a pleased smile down at him, just about mirroring the same one that he’s handing you so freely, just like his body.

Slowly you walk forward on the bed, your legs held firmly to either side of his lower waist as you kneel down, hovering your soaked womanhood right above his glistening member. You let out a breathy chuckle, resting your palms against his broad shoulders as he does the same action but with your bare hips.

“May I?” You politely ask, leaning your head against his as he gently squeezes the flesh of your hips in reply.

“Of course.” He mutters, low and gravelly in your ear as he patiently awaits your body, his very heart about to explode with how much he loves you right now.

Parting your legs wider, you remove one hand from his shoulder to quickly grasp his thick cock, “Alright let me just...” Bringing it to your dripping entrance you line it up perfectly, “I’m coming in..” You laugh, “literally.”

“Y/N you don’t have to say it...”

Digging your fingers into the side of his shoulder you quickly tilt your head to shut him up with a kiss, “Yes, but you laughed.” Pulling back to look at your face, Geralt’s mouth opens to reply, though his words are left on the wind when you slowly slide yourself onto him.

The new welcoming warmth of your core sending his mind swirling with nothing but a colorful bliss. Yours about the same, he’s big as he sinks deeper and deeper into your body until finally he’s completely filled you up.

Closing your eyes, your face scrunches up in slight discomfort at the new thrilling contact, this feeling isn’t anything new it’s just he’s quite large and you need a couple moments to adjust before the real fun begins. Sensing your slight displeasure, he keeps still inside you, trailing a comforting hand over your cheek as he watches your brows furrow together as you adjust.

“I’m sorry Y/N, I don’t mean to hurt you.” Worries your beautiful Witcher as you open your glistening scarlet irises to find his concerned face.

Shaking your head you slowly roll your hips into his, “Never. Apologize for a big dick Geralt....you’re honestly about to work wonders so keep that pretty mouth shut and make me scream.”

Holding in his laughter, he decides to do just as you’ve asked, a second later do you gasp in surprise when both his hands dig into your hips. Pushing you down onto him even more as he pulls you with each roll of your hips against his. Creating a blissful synced rhythm that begins to bring a low pleasurable build into your soaked core.

He suddenly thrusts up into you as you bounce down on him over and over again, your chests rubbing against one another as you both attempt to hold each other’s gazes for as long as you can try. The room feels hot and sticky, the smells of sex, sweat, and Geralt filling into your sensitive nostrils that drives you mad with lust.

All that can be heard is the familiar slapping of skin on skin as you both move against one another in quick passionate motions. Without warning Geralt thrusts deeply into your sweet spot sending you into a flurry of moaned curses as he thrusts his strong hips into you over and over again.

Your body falls flush against his as you whimper and moan into his shoulder from the intense buildup of pure pleasure that he’s slowly filling you with by the second. He can tell you’re close and with that thought in mind you’re pleasantly surprised when he abruptly holds your back, keeping you against him as he quickly lays you onto the soft mattress.

You audibly moan at the new positioning, not being able to hold back any more whimpers of pleasure as he fucks you into the comfortable bedding like his life depends on it. You’re visibility sweaty now, the slickness of yourself and Geralt doing everything to increase your growing pleasure as he slides in and out of you like a crazed man gone years without a proper fucking.

Another moan escapes from your lips as Geralt bounds you into the mattress, hitting you with deep precise thrusts each and every time, leaving you with nothing to keep you steady but his bare back that no doubt is covered in fresh pink scratch marks.

He keeps flush against your body, his manhood buried deep within your parted thighs as he intertwines his fingers with yours, his lips so soft and inviting as they press against your neck and jaw. You can’t remember if you’re ever felt such pleasure from this man as he pulls you to the edge of oblivion.

He suddenly moans against your ear sending new waves of bliss deep into your core and just like that do you come, moaning his name over and over again as he relentlessly thrusts into you with all that he has left.

He grips your hands tight, his warm seed spilling into you a second later, causing you to squeeze your legs tighter against his, “Ugh fuck Geralt.” You moan, your lips brushing past his as he pumps into you for a few more blissful moments before he falls limp against your body.

Utterly spent with your heated love making session, you chuckle at his honestly adorable actions as he lays flush with you, his cock still buried deep inside. He may be a large heavy man, but you’re no common human woman who lays underneath this handsome Witcher.

It’s plain as anyone could see, though you’d cut the throats of anyone bold enough to take a peek at your secretive actions.

Humming in content, Geralt moves to lay at your side, bringing you along with him so that he can stay inside you for a bit longer. You smirk, holding him close as he does the same, “A little needy tonight are we?” You muse, placing a chaste kiss against his puffy red lips.

“Maybe I missed you in more ways then one.” He replies, his golden eyes finding your crimson ones, “It certainly doesn’t help that Jaskier is always with us when we set up camp. I never get a true moment to myself with you.”

Trailing a hand down his scar covered back, you smile once again, “Well you’re about to get a whole week with me if you’re lucky. And I’m looking forward to every single second of it.”

The way you make him feel cannot ever truly be expressed in Geralt’s mind, though you can tell he loves you deeply even when no words are said at all or perhaps when he gets flustered and stumbles on his tongue for the right ones. Though right now he seems to have you vexed, completely entranced and utterly opened and surrendered to him.

But he’d be lying if he said he didn’t feel the same, his eyelids close in content as you gently trail your fingers down his cheekbone, earning a low hum from deep within his throat that sends shivers down your spine even with something so innocent as this.

You break out into a grin, your fangs showing as you let out a couple chuckles once you realize he’s still inside you. His own lips curl into a tired smile, though he doesn’t open his eyes. “Y/N?” He mutters, wondering what on earth could be so funny right now.

Pushing a few stray hairs out of his face you blink, trying to contain yourself once more, “Oh nothing, you’re just being....dare I say, cute. And all things considered, you’re still inside me.”

Geralt shows you a lazy grin, “I like being inside you.”

“Yes and what if I have to relieve myself, or get a drink?”

“I see no problem when you’re lucky enough to be laying next to me.”

Fake scoffing you gently tug on his silver locks, “Geralt of Rivia you’re blessed enough I love you so much you ass.”

Finally he opens his eyes, the most adorable of smiles crossing his face, and only for you, “Well I guess someone has to.”

“Yes.” You smirk, “And I’ll make disappear the next confidant fucker who dare think to take you away from me.”

“So I’m assuming that last tavern wench we met a month ago went missing....not, under mysterious circumstances?” He wonders, a brow raised in humored accusation.

Rolling your scarlet irises, you give him a friendly pat over his bare shoulder, “I wasn’t appreciating that foxy look she was giving you, looked like a horny buck ready to pounce.” The look he gives you is enough to make you burst with laughter, “What? Don’t give me that face Geralt, I didn’t do anything adherently evil....all I did was leave her in the middle of the woods...near another town!” You protest, trying to make your little petty adventure sound less terrible.

 “Well, at least you were nice about it,” Muses Geralt, “though I’m not sure if that’s better.”

“Oh shut it, I couldn’t help myself if you’d like to know alri...” Knock. Knock. Knock. Three raps against the thick bedroom door immediately draws your attention away from Geralt. Propping his head up by his elbow, he turns a protective glare at the mystery person keeping themselves on the other side.

Wanting to snap at the hidden individual who dare break you away from your rather pleasant evening, you push away from the soft comfort of the mattress, quickly pulling out of Geralt, you maneuver yourself into a seated position. “I’ll see who it is, can’t be anyone with a personal vendetta against us, well.....at least I don’t think so.”

Pursing his lips together in slight apprehension, Geralt silently watches you slip from the bed with nothing but a thin white sheet to keep your nakedness from any prying eyes. Your steps to the barred door are swift and silent as an owl in flight, just the same when you remove the chair from the door knob.

With one hand on the golden knob and the other grasped tightly onto the bunched up bed sheet, you turn a curious glance to Geralt who’s now seated fully upright on the mattress, a thin sheet covering his previously exposed manhood.

Finding your sights upon the door once again, you turn the knob, swiftly opening the door where you’re both greeted with the nervous wide eyed face of a young elven boy, who looks only to be about fourteen, dressed in lord-like attire. A suspiciously high status pose about him that sends your brows furrowing in confusion for this strange unexpected intrusion.

Wearing a soft purple scarf over a pure white thick fur laced jacket, his green eyes shift warily from you to your shirtless Witcher then back to you again. His cheeks most certainly reddening the longer he stares, mouth slightly agape, clearly this kid was not expecting the sight before him.

Deciding to relieve the awkward atmosphere, you clear your throat, “Well you certainly don’t look like an assassin, nor do you appear to be ready with coin for a wanted killing. So, do relieve us of this suspense...I was kind of in the middle of something important.” You state, the tone of your voice appearing slightly annoyed even when you try and hide it.

His big emerald irises flicker as he blinks, swallowing his nerves, does the elven boy in the fancy coat and purple scarf stand a bit straighter, “Hello. I am Venemyr of Rorym, messenger to Queen Allira and her husband King Gabriel of this winter kingdom of Turga.” He stammers, eyes shifting nervously from Geralt to you, suddenly he pulls out a folded piece of white and gold craftsmanship in the form of a beautiful card.

His hand shakes slightly as he reaches out for you to take the concealed letter, finding no ill intent from the boy, you fearlessly accept. Once in your hand does he finally begin his explanation, “I come to ask the Princess Y/N of Alkatraz and the Witcher, Geralt of Rivia, if they will accept this invitation to the King and Queen’s eldest son’s banquet as special guests of honor.”

Oh, now things have just gotten very intriguing.

Not positive on how to correctly respond to this large proposition, the young elven messenger nods, “My adversaries had been made aware of you two by a bard named Jaskier who is thought of warmly in this kingdom, then it appeared that the eldest prince became very interested in meeting a lady dhampir and a Witcher of Kaer Morhen.” 

Oh, Jaskier you motherfucker.

Smiling politely, Vesemyr watches with wide foresty eyes when he catches sight of your fangs, noticing his apparent change of demeanor, your face falls, “Uh, well, thank you for the message and this invitation? We’ll see to it soon, and without a doubt report back accordingly sometime tomorrow.”

“The banquet is in two days.”

“Is it now?” You reply in a knowing tone, your brows raising, “Good to know, now if you’ll excuse us...the hour is late and you’d better get to wherever you’ve come from before it gets any colder outside.” And with that said do you flash him a wink before slamming the door into his scared little face and high end attire without a second thought.

Looking down at the strange yet exquisite invitation placed in your hand, you turn it over and find the golden waxes seal of a house sigil. “Y/N come to bed, I think I’d like to have a look at whatever fuckery Jaskier has roped us into.”

Raising your attention back up to the naked man seated casually against the headboard, you smile, making swift steps to the mattress before launching yourself next to his side causing the bed to shift and creak at your jostling movement. Instead of finding his annoyed expression, you’re fortunately greeted with an arm pulling you flush against his side.

With the two of you wrapped up in the white bedsheets, leaning comfortably on one another does Geralt slowly take the parchment from out of your hand. He holds the letter up, studying it’s beauty in the side table’s candle light as you rest your head on his shoulder with one arm slung over his muscular waist.

His breaths are slow and calm, the rise and fall of his chest gently pushing you up and then back down again only ever so slightly while your Witcher carefully observes the golden wax of the houses sigil. “A stag, with a crown of leaves....should we open it?” Muses Geralt, fully aware of how much you want to see what’s inside.

Geralt I swear to god.

Gently giving his waist a loving squeeze, you nod, “If you’d be so kind.” Humming in reply, Geralt makes quick work of the letter, soon its cut open and pulled out for your eyes to witness its ink marked contents.

“Fuck.” Mutters Geralt dismally, “Guess that kid wasn’t fucking with us.”

“And I guess we’re going to a party.” You exclaim, much more excitement flowing through your voice then what Geralt could ever give.

He quickly turns his head down to you, “Y/N no. I don’t give a shit if this prince wants to speak with us, I have no interest in becoming involved in something like that.”

You lightly chuckle at his less then stellar mood before turning your face to press a chaste kiss to his bare shoulder, he sighs, meeting your crimson gaze once again, “Think of it, free drink and food, and this prince wants to see us....we’re practically the guests of honor and I cannot wait to see Jaskier tomorrow cause I’m gonna slap him for it...then I’ll thank him.”

“Ugh, fine.” Begrudgingly mutters Geralt as you press your lips to his.

-

Maybe a part 2 later on, idk we’ll see. Hope you enjoyed this :)

Tagged for series:  @seninjakitey​  @notahappytree​ @ashleyforeverareject​ @sokkasdarling​ @kmuir1​​@haleypearce @diegos-butt​ (@auds24 sorry idk why ur name won’t work) @a-girl-who-loves-disney

[lavenderbang]

Treasure as Greek Gods/Demigods

A/N: I was thinking about how there are twelve main Greek Gods and twelve members of Treasure…. And I created this. I love Greek mythology (obviously, I’m queer and grew up with PJO/HOO) and I love Treasure so it’s double good for me! Anyways enjoy these bullet point head cannons of the boys (I hope if you’re reading this you know about PJO/HOO cause I’m gonna talk about the boys at Camp Half-Blood)

[side-note: I replaced Hera with Hestia because I don’t like Hera very much and I felt like Hestia (goddess of the home/hearth) was better than a goddess of marriage :/... so just go with it please :)]

Hyunsuk >>>> Hestia

Okay so the reason I had that side note is because I feel like Hyunsuk is such the personification of “home”

He radiates so much warmth and security, I felt like Hestia was the perfect fit.

(its basically impossible to be a demigod from her as she is a maiden goddess but lets just pretend somehow its possible)

Would literally have to most cozy and comforting cabin all to himself.

I imagine a fireplace, a reading nook, a comfy bed with many blankets, all the works 

Hyunsuk bounces around a lot, but he’s usually accompanied by one of the other boys, as they can’t seem to leave him alone

He does however spend a lot of time in the infirmary, as he brings a sense of ease and comfort with him and likes to share it with the wounded or sick.

This ideal of bringing comfort to others also applies to the younger campers who feel homesick and cry.

tends to the campfire every night; Hyunsuk says its because it’s his duty as the child of the hearth to make sure everyone stays warm

Hasn’t been on a quest yet, but Hyunsuk doesn’t think he’d be much help anyways so he’s glad to greet the demigods that come back with a cup of tea and a seat in his cabin to relax

very content with hearing all about the adventures of others while staying safe and supporting from the camp

not to mention he’s the biggest scaredy cat ever and hates the idea of going on a dangerous quest and facing scary monsters

He does know the basics of sword fighting (Jihoon made him learn at least that much), but doesn’t care to learn any more.

overall, He’s reliable and comforting person that everyone enjoys having around (so normal Hyunsuk) and enjoys being the stable shoulder to lean on for when others come home from danger.

Jihoon >>>>> Ares

Idk if y’all saw this coming but I ended up picking Ares (I was debating between Ares and Zeus tbh...)

I mean, as if Jihoon doesn’t radiate power and strength idk who does

Jihoon is physically the strongest, but also mentally one of the strongest too (as proven in YGTB, coming back to the industry after not being a trainee takes incredible mental strength)

He would for sure be the head of the cabin with his competitive headass

Not only is it his competitive nature that makes him head of the Ares cabin, but he has also been on the most quests out of everyone at camp

Jihoon spends most of his time at camp training, but referring to the bullet point above, he isn’t at camp very often because of quests

He does spend a lot of the evenings in Hyunsuk’s cabin, mostly just telling tales to his bestie and soaking up the home-y feeling of his friend

He has more scars than you could count, but he wears them like badges of pride and is not afraid to show them off

He feels like they symbolize how he’s a protector and they are his “medals of honor” for saving everyone (but he would never reveal he feels that way that to anyone)

Enjoys capture the flag

If you have Jihoon on your team, guaranteed victory because he’s a beast at sword fighting

maybe because he’s up at the crack of dawn training, but it comes in handy when playing games with the campers

Speaking of campers, Jihoon is the scary older brother that protects you from bullies

Very caring for his siblings and the other boys and will take the head off of anyone who hurts them emotionally or physically

What a good brother :)

Overall, Jihoon is scary and strong, bringing great pride through many quests, but hes also a competitive dork who stands up for others

Yoshinori >>>>>> Demeter

Okay so this one is less about shared traits and more about vibes so bear with me please

Yoshinori is very caring and has a big heart and I personally believe that is the secret to growing anything green

Demeter is all about agriculture and growing things and I think that Yoshi radiates that energy

He would spend a lot of time in the strawberry fields, cultivating and enjoying working out in the sun

he hums to himself while tending to the plants (my heart :()

He’s pretty shy and reserved, so he enjoys spending time with greenery rather than people

that being said, he does enjoy when someone comes out to work with him, just because its cool that someone is interested in his hard work

has been on a few quests, but doesn’t enjoy it like Jihoon; he sees it more like a duty or chore than something fun and exciting

catch him wondering around in the woods instead of training

Yoshi likes being surrounded by the big trees and it allows him to think and sharpen his mind instead of his sword

not the head of his cabin, but has been asked a couple times to which he refuses

doesn't like all that responsibility, but for sure is a fun older brother who listens really well

I get the feeling that all the younger Demeter kids come to him when they are experiencing problems and he provides excellent advice while watering the hydrangeas

Which btw, his room is FILLED with different flowers and ferns

He enjoys the bright colored flowers the most, as he thinks it brightens the mood even on the rainiest days

Overall, Yoshinori keeps to himself and enjoys working with beautiful greenery, but he’s also a soft, sweet and reliable person who listens when you need someone

Junkyu >>>>>> Apollo

Junkyu as the god of the sun? I think its a pretty good fit tbh

He’s bright and cheerful and has the voice of an angel, which is a characteristic of all children of Apollo

Junkyu might be a child of Apollo, but he’s not a good healer at ALL

Like Hyunsuk, he does spend some time in the infirmary to bring up the spirits of those who are sick or wounded

but that’s about all hes good for there

He spends most of his time in the strawberry fields to soak up the sun (And bother Yoshi who is working in the field) or in the Pegasus stables tending to them

Junkyu is the best at caring for the Pegasus; he has a way of understanding exactly what they like and want and enjoys them because “they’re so cute :3″

He is never alone, as he likes to follow around the campers he is friends with and yap their ears off (Mashiho)

Lead singer at Campfire

hits all the high notes and even adds in runs because he feels like it and can

writes his own campfire songs and teaches the rest of the camp them

can’t swing a sword, but hes GOATED at archery

has only been on one quest, and he didn’t even bring a blade because he complains that “they’re too heavy”

however he was the only one to return practically unscathed because hes a sharp shooter

low-key kinda scary with a bow, because his usually smiley, giggly self becomes serious

Overall, Junkyu is a social, bright camper that loves to sing and chat; he’s not good at healing, but he makes up for it with his strength in archery and care for the Pegasus

Mashiho >>>>>> Aphrodite

Genuinely, I didn’t want to be biased (I’m in love with this man) but he ended up becoming Aphrodite after I picked everyone else out

I mean, Mashiho was said to be one of the visuals in YGTB and if you haven’t fallen in love with him at least once YOU���RE LYING

Even Treasure is in love with Mahshiho and that is a perfect fit for Aphrodite

Around camp, he has a fan club that swoon over him (Jihoon and Junkyu are a part of it) and is for sure every new campers biggest crush

His soft, pretty-boy looks paired with how adorable he is when speaking makes many of the campers think he’s a little softie

however, Mashiho is easily one of the strongest campers and has been on at least a dozen quests

because of this, he’s the head of the Aphrodite cabin, although Mashiho is a bit different from most of his siblings in terms of ideals/interests

despite this, he’s a very understanding and caring older brother to the younger Aphrodite kids, making sure to listen to their wants and needs for the betterment of the group :)

Prefers a dagger to a sword, but knows how to wield both; he likes the discreetness of a dagger, as it helps with his cute, unsuspecting image

100% can charm-speak and uses it to his advantage when battling

spends most of his time training with Jihoon, but its not because he needs it, more because he likes the physical activity

That, or he’s listening to Junkyu rant about anything and everything as the Apollo kid wont leave his side lol

Absolutes cracked at capture the flag

this dude is always the center of any offence for the team because he can move quickly and can “persuade” basically any defense in giving up the flag

Overall, Mashiho is the Camp’s #1 crush, but don’t let his cute looks and sweet personality fool you as he is a very strong and formidable opponent.

Jaehyuk >>>>>> Dionysus

As if Jaehyuk doesn’t radiate Dionysus vibes

Jaehyuk is life of the party and super fun and social, which I feel like fits really well with the god of wine (who also historically had raging parties)

This kid is the most popular guy at camp, getting all the tea about everything going on

If Mashiho is camp’s #1 crush, Jaehyuk is camp’s #1 best friend because he’s LITERALLY FRIENDS WITH EVERYONE

And he’s even good friends with everyone, as he makes sure to keep up to date with everyone’s business and is always there when you need someone to chat with about stuff

took over doing the camp tours from the Hermes kids (no one objected tbh)

Adds funny commentary about every place they visit on the tour (”This is Zeus’ fist! One time as a joke, we convinced Junghwan it was Zeus’ actual fist and he was scared to go around here for MONTHS! Oh, and over here-”)

Spends a lot of time in the Big House because he likes being around his dad (Who actively avoids him) and feeding Seymour the leopard head.

When he’s not at the Big House, you can see him bouncing around from place to place chatting and checking in with ever camper

Most definitely wearing shades and has a drink in hand (it is a summer camp after all)

Hasn’t gone on a quest and frankly doesn’t want to

Why would he worry about all that saving the world crap when he could nap in the grass and goof around with the satyrs?

Hasn’t swung a weapon in his life and couldn’t care less; the sword strapped to his belt is for show

Despite not going on any quests, still ended up being head of his cabin

I mean, it was by popular vote so who was Jaehyuk to argue

Overall, Jaehyuk is a popular, friendly guy who always brings a good time to the rest of the campers. He’s one of the first people you meet when arriving at camp and it always leaves a good impression because of his fun nature

Asahi >>>>>> Hephaestus

Now, I know this is a hot take, but I have my reasons for this one 

I had a vivid image in my mind of creative Asahi in a forge creating art and other contraptions all day

as the god of craftsmanship, forge, and fire, Asahi’s creativity and reserved nature fit really well with Hephaestus. 

He spends a lot of time in the forge creating whatever comes to mind (or whatever Yedam draws up for him)

He likes it because not a lot of people bother him and he’s able to work quietly and focus on his creation.

the only person he sees regularly is Jaehyuk, but that’s because he’s everywhere all the time

Asahi’s favorite thing to make is small wind-up toys for the younger campers to play with.

He made one for a homesick Demeter kid once and the next day when he came to the Pavilion to eat supper, a gaggle of young campers flocked him asking about toys

ever since, he made sure he always had a little toy on him at all times and the young campers follow him around when he’s not in the forge

Not head of the cabin because he hasn’t been on any quests, but he would like to go if they needed him to

he’s not really afraid of anything so a quest sound like no big deal to him, especially if he isn’t going alone

doesn’t like to train much because it takes away from his working time, but knows the basics of every weapon-fighting style (He has made quite a few for the camp)

prefers using a spear the most, as its light and he’s a paper doll (sorry not sorry)

Is kinda shy and reserved, but the rest of the Hephaestus kids make sure to include him in any sort of family discussions

he appreciates it and is trying to be more social with Jaehyuk’s help :)

Overall, Asahi is a creator and an inventor who spends almost all of his time in the forge, but despite this, he has children, his siblings and the most popular camper eating out of the palm of his hand :)

Yedam >>>>>> Athena

this is a given because of Yedam’s big sexy brain; Athena was my first pick for Yedam and he was literally the first person I wrote down for this because how could it NOT be Athena?!?!?!

not only is Yedam a genius and carries the brain-cell for Treasure, but he also has a intuitive and creative mind like Asahi and Athena is also the goddess of crafts as well as wisdom so I think its a perfect fit

to start off (relating to the above head-cannons), he designs a lot of machines and gives them to Asahi to create.

killer at making blueprints for things and enjoys working on things like that

he also likes to create other forms of art and likes to try new things frequently :)

he spends most of his time at the arts and crafts center (obviously), but you can also find him at the arena training with the group of boys that likes to train (Jihoon, Mashiho, and Doyoung; with Junkyu tagging along to watch occasionally)

if he’s gonna strategize war, Yedam feels like he should be able to do the things he’s planning for everyone else

likes using a long-sword because it gives him distance while also maximizing speed and ease of use

speaking about strategy, you do not want to be on the other team for capture the flag

Yedam sees it like a game of chess and already has a counter move for every strategy the other team has and is definitely ten steps ahead

doesn’t fight much, but is the leader of whatever team he is on because he always has a plan (and even a counter plan for Junghwan as a teammate)

head of the Athena cabin because he’s been on a handful of quests, and honestly he feels pretty indifferent towards them

not excited to go on quests, but not opposed to being picked either

because he’s head of the cabin, he’s usually the guy the Athena kids go to when they have any sort of issue

he listens well and is sympathetic, before giving a calm and rational solution to whatever the problem the kids are experiencing

Overall, Yedam is tactical, smart, and a strong fighter, but he’s also a very innovative individual that designs and creates as well as takes good care of his siblings

Doyoung >>>>>> Zeus

we are 2/3 done and I just got to a big three god oop

but I mean, Doyoung really does radiate power and I think only someone as confident and cool as Doyoung could handle being the king of the gods

Trains nonstop with the little group of boys that likes to because he thinks “you can never be too strong/prepared”

wields a sword but can use basically any weapon; definitely prefers something made out of metal though

Has the ability to summon lightning (hence preferring a metal weapon), but it can sometimes get annoying.

Once, he sneezed at campfire and 1/3 of the camp was sent to the infirmary due to electric shock/burns

Doyoung looks very scary and powerful but is actually a dork the moment he opens his mouth.

his little laugh kills the strong stoic persona a son of Zeus would radiate

flirts with any new camper, but not in a serious way, more like a playful, teasing, “look how fun I am” way.

he’s not to the degree of Mashiho, but does have a tiny “””fan club””” because of these flirty remarks

lives for the attention tbh

he rarely sleeps in the Zeus cabin, as he doesn’t have any siblings and the cabin just feels so cold and lonely at night

Likes to stay in Hyunsuk’s cabin because Hyunsuk also has no siblings, but will sleep in any of his friends cabins

Although his least favorite cabin is Ares, since in his opinion it smells like B.O and the siblings bicker too much.

Is the head of the cabin (obviously, he’s the only one) and has been on maybe 5-6 quests

going on a quest is a double edged sword because he’s one of the strongest demigod with his powers and training, but he also has the strongest scent so he is like a monster magnet

Prefers to go on quests alone or just stay at camp for the safety of others

Overall, Doyoung is a powerful and strong camper, who likes to tease and have fun while also training hard and being at the top of his game; he cares a lot for the other campers and likes to spend time with his friends

Jeongwoo >>>>>> Posideon

this goof for sure would flaunt the fact that he’s son of the big three lol

this one was less of a reasoning and more of just the feeling I got when I was thinking about who fits Jeongwoo

like I can just see him being on the canoe lake with on of the other boys and using his powers to flip the canoe as a joke

speaking of the lake, you can find him there because he likes to be around the water

He though does spend a lot of time with Haruto at the climbing wall, because he says “it’ll get his muscles big”

he and Haruto are inseparable (much to Ruto’s dismay) because I said so

He has only made it to the top of the climbing wall once, but even then he did scorch his arm pretty badly (which he didn’t shut up about it for weeks...)

Obviously has the powers to control water, But he’s still learning how to do it efficiently

 he keeps a bottle of water with him at all times, even when he’s sleeping

“You just never know when someone is gonna attack and I’d rather have at least a little defense with me at all times; I am son of Poseidon you know, so I do get a lot of people trying to start fights.” (not true btw)

Sings well at campfire

everyone was pretty surprised he wasn’t son of Apollo because he fits right in with them, adding harmonies with his angelic voice

hasn’t been on any quests but is DYING to go on one

literally anytime there is a quest announced, he volunteers, but the prophecy is never for him

gets a bit whiny and sulky about it, but makes sure to send whatever camper gets to go off on their way and greets them excitedly when they get back

Overall, Jeongwoo has a good balance of work and fun, training and teasing his bestie Haruto. He’s eager to prove himself on a quest, but he still needs to be able to hone his incredible powers first (to which he is aware he has and likes to talk about)

Haruto >>>>> Hades

I love emo/edgy Haru leave me alone

much like Hades, Haruto sounds and looks scary, but is actually not that bad of a guy when you get to know him, which is why I think Hades is a good fit for him

like Doyoung, he looks scary and stoic until he opens his mouth

you can find him in a few places most of the time:

either he’s at the climbing wall with Jeongwoo

where he prefers to do training by doing physical activity instead of swinging a weapon around because he has more fun that way and it feels more like a game to him instead of training

this reasoning also applies to the volleyball court, as its a game and sports are fun

or he’s in the woods by himself talking a walk

he likes to clear his head and take some time to think about stuff and the fresh air of the woods really helps him with that

values his alone time and the woods are a great place to get alone time/peace and quiet (occasionally runs into Yoshi though; they just smile at each other and move on)

the way to tell where he’s at is if you can hear his dolphin screams, he’s on the climbing wall with the lava (doesn’t always fair well for Haruto :/) and if you hear loud, boisterous shouts, he’s playing volleyball (he gets excited)

He can summon the dead, but he also can summon riches

when he first got to camp, he had a hard time differentiating the feeling of the two so it was a 50/50 if you were getting diamonds or skeletons

has gotten a bit better now, but still occasionally will summon a lump of gold in the middle of a battle

he does visit the underworld sometimes, but its only been a few times and his dad was pretty nice and welcoming

but mostly goes to see Cerberus as the big puppy fell in love with Haru the moment he saw him

has only been on one quest and it did not go quite as planned so he’s okay with not going on anymore (Jeongwoo was jealous for the hours leading up to it, but then cried when his bestie left)

Fights with a short sword but rarely uses it to actually fight

its more of a defense item during capture the flag than an actual fighting weapon

He feels a little indifferent when it comes to fighting, as he’d rather just do something fun or athletic instead of fighting so quests didn’t really do it for him

Overall, Haruto is the epitome of don’t judge a book by its cover, because he looks tough and menacing but is really a softie who enjoys being active outside and doesn’t really enjoy fighting a lot. He values his alone time, but he also enjoys having fun with others too

Junghwan >>>>> Hermes

I have the habit of making maknae’s children of Hermes, but its because they are so cheeky and teasing I can’t help it

Junghwan is playful and fun, which fits with most with Hermes so I picked it out for him

This kids such a nice guy to the new campers, especially on their first night in his cabin.

tries to keep the atmosphere fun and light, talking about how exciting and cool camp is and tries to immediately be friends

he likes to hang out at the volleyball court or will occasionally go to the creek and try to catch frogs in Zepheros creek

he’s all about enjoying his time at camp, so pranks are a MUST (flashbacks to that one tmap ep. where he purposely scared Hyunsuk by banging on the windows of the spooky shack)

anything unfortunate happens to one of the campers, Junghwan is the first to be taken in to be interrogated

might be a bit of a troublemaker in this sense, but nobody stays mad at him for long because his joyous laughter after a successful prank melts away any anger

still pretty young and inexperienced with any sort of weapons, so he sticks with something small like a dagger or knife

He trains occasionally, but only because he’s urged to by the older campers

is the worst capture the flag player (I’m talking audible groan when its revealed he’s on your team)

not because he’s weak, but because he doesn’t care about winning

on multiple occasions has accepted bribes to give up the flag or throw the game when he gets close on offense

Hasn’t been on any quests but Junghwan doesn’t really mind because quest sound serious and boring and baby isn’t about to waste his time on that

unless they ask him to, in which i guess he has no choice.

Overall, Junghwan is a soft-hearted, friendly camper, who’s boyish nature and fun personality allows him to get away with not training as hard, pulling ridiculous pranks and throwing capture the flag.

~~~~~~~

A/N: look at me, finally posting again after what seems like years. I’m working on some fics but I just stop suddenly after I get to a certain point so we’ll see, as I want to post more soon! But anyways, this one was fun to write, so let me know if you guys liked this and please consider checking out my other works if you enjoyed this. Make sure to stream Treasure’s new web drama and ily all <3

[seulgiswhoreee]

collab works

this is everything i have ever written or will ever write in regards to collabs, to be updated with every new change <33

format:

member

title of collab (collab link) - title of fic / plot

teaser link | fic link

Taeil

Crimes Through Neo City {Canceled} - All You Can Do Is Run / "Wanna tell me why you keep running from your problems? From him? And while we're at it, explain to him why you packed up and left that day.", "All I can do is run, you know that."

teaser | fic

Hide If You Can - 3, 2, 1, run! (original ik) / "If we're going to be teaming up and surviving together, let's hope you can shoot a gun."

teaser | fic

Hiraeth - greedy / in which you slowly find yourself greedy for more of famous CEO Moon's son, Taeil, touch.

teaser | fic

Johnny

Aether - mirrors / Everything is not what it seems.

teaser | fic

The Music Shop - Looking 4 Myself / Johnny's journey to finding himself, and in retrospect, you.

teaser | fic

Yuta

Traepmora Academy - causa perdida / in which professor'sson!yuta is forced to tutor you and learns what it's like to be a celebrity's daughter, always in the spotlight, always under pressure, he regrets thinking you were a lost cause.

teaser | fic

Kun

Kokuhaku - hit reset / in which kun gets a heavy feeling of deja vu.

teaser | fic

Doyoung

Twisted Eras - Who is in control? / "See you on the other side."

teaser | fic

Jaehyun

Party Time - intoxicated / in which you and jaehyun have a bad habit of only loving each other when intoxicated.

teaser | fic

The Story Of Us - the story that never seemed to end / the story of y/n and jaehyun, the story that never seemed to end, literally.

teaser | fic

Wish We Could Turn Back Time - cotton club affairs / in which jaehyun longs for something more than just your cotton club affairs

teaser | fic

Write Your Own Story - powerful / From the very first time we loved, from the very first time we touched; the stroke of your fingers, the scent of you lingers. It burns like a fire, electricity, when you're close I feel the sparks. When you hold me, when you touch me. It's so powerful.

teaser | fic

Winwin

Like A Dream {Canceled} - the moon & stars / As we sat, silence slowly loomed over us with only the bright moon and twinkling stars to accompany us. And as I locked eyes with him, I knew I was doomed.

teaser | fic

Jungwoo

Lights! Camera! Action! {Canceled} - side character / in which you are the side character in an uprising k-drama starring your crush, jungwoo, and his crush.

teaser | fic

Lucas

All Monsters Are Human {Canceled} - crazy in love / "Did you do it..?", "I did it for love.. for you." His grin widens, he must be crazy.

teaser | fic

Mark

Do You Like Scary Movies? - 13 Cameras / in which someone plants 13 cameras in your house to learn your routine, which ultimately helps in your demise. (loosely based on the movie 13 Cameras but executed differently - would now be a good time to say that i haven't watched that movie in years.)

teaser | fic

Enter: Doom - The Last Option: Gate 11 / in which you have no clue that the world is literally ending and when you do get a clue, you regret not spending every waking moment with the love of your life.

teaser | fic

Superstition Made Me Afraid To Love - chopsticks, chop this / you feel silly to be avoiding mark lee and his love just because of vertically standing chopsticks.

teaser | fic

The Language Of Thorns - unbreak my heart / "oh so you can physically heal wounds but you won't heal my heart?"

teaser | fic

What Lurks In The Dark - poison / stay home with your boring parents or be at a party all weekend with the people in school who used to pick on you, pick your poison.

teaser | fic

Write Your Own Story - guns and knives / the guns and knives are the only thing keeping you from loving mark.

teaser | fic

Hendery

The Thrill Of It All - cotton candy and funnel cakes / your first date with your highschool crush, hendery.

teaser | fic

Renjun

Remember Me For All Centuries - runaways, strays / “Let’s run away together, baby.”

teaser | fic

Jeno

The Lakes - my tears ricochet / my favorite things about you.

teaser | fic

Unsolved - be my bride, till the end of time / welcome to the best and worst 8 days of jeno's life

teaser | fic

Haechan

Lies - bad liar / "your lies can't save you now, you're trapped in them."

teaser | fic

Phantom Of The Opera - want, need, desire / in which donghyuck desires you in ways that scare you.

teaser | fic

The Dark Room - carried away / in which donghyuck gets carried away with his lovin'

teaser | fic

Olympus Is Falling - please, take me home / in which you literally are the goddess sent from heaven to brighten donghyuck's life.

teaser | fic

Jaemin

23 Ways To Fall In Love - beginning, middle, end / The story of you and Jaemin is like a rollercoaster. Bumpy, smooth, high, low, and everything in between but it all starts when you spot Jaemin on the other side of the cafeteria cozying up with the most popular girl in school and your feelings for him start to uncover. Will your newfound and obvious crush on Jaemin catch his attention or is there more to the story?

teaser | fic

Sleep Paralysis - the expressionless / in which you interview and charm a doctor who did the workup for who he thought was the expressionless woman.

teaser | fic

Open Ending - edge of a cliff / loving jaemin is like a cliff. you would haul yourself off of it as soon as you got close enough, letting yourself blissfully fall thinking you would have someone to catch you. loving you is easy. all he has to do is stand there and catch you in his arms, give you the world you deserve. but then why does it feel like such a burdened task?

teaser | fic

Yangyang

Let’s Fake It - dance with me / So move me, baby, shake like the bough of a willow tree.

teaser | fic

Shotaro

Aristocracy - i hate you, i love you / in which you get arranged to marry the one person you hate with all of your life.

teaser | fic

Avenoir - soulmates in crime / you expected to meet your soulmate in a sweet romantic way, like meeting in the coffee shop near your house, eyes turning gold to indicate that this is the person you're destined to love. you certainly did not expect to meet your soulmate during a bank heist, eyes turning gold as you bleed out next to him, bullet wound almost penetrating your left kidney. your soulmate didn't expect to meet his soulmate in this situation either, and he certainly didn't expect you to come back to life after bleeding out in his arms.

teaser | fic

Chenle

Love On The Workfield - like romeo & juliet / "like romeo and juliet, forbidden but forever."

teaser | fic

Jisung

No Promises - promises are meant to be broken / jisung breaks the one promise that kept you sane.

teaser | fic

Strawberries & Cigarettes - kiss me silly / it hurts to hate jisung as much as you do for breaking your heart. it hurts to love him still.

teaser | fic

When You Love Someone - the art of destruction / The Raven is told to be a bird that brings wisdom, affection, and healing. However, Ravens are also told to be birds that bring darkness and great voids. When the lives of two raven-haired teenagers clash, one will love and one will destroy. There is a consequence for loving, for caring but that destruction, that darkness goes unseen by those around them for weeks and when recognized, it might just be too late.

teaser | fic

[fishandships]

Selfship Samhain Day 30 - Spooky or Security

did i use this prompt as an excuse to share my favorite spooky story from my area? yes, i absolutely did :P i’ve shared this story around many a campfire, and this is my personal version based on various accounts i’ve heard from others. (also, if you’d like to hear an alternate telling of the Dogman legend, here’s a lyrical version written in the ‘90s!)

Summary: an autumn camping trip is the absolute perfect setting for scary campfire stories! maybe even one scary enough to spook an Autobot.... Wordcount: 1817 Warnings: brief mention of fictional(?) misfortunes including blood and animal death, food mention 

      Michigan autumns were typically cold and drizzly and dreary, and thus far this one had been no different. Luckily, however, the rain had let up and the sun come out long enough for the dampened forest to dry and allow the group - led by Prowl and River and accompanied by Bumblebee, Sari, and Optimus - to proceed with their annual camping trip. Now with evening falling the air was just crisp enough to make the crackling campfire that much more pleasant as the party settled in for the night. “See, this isn’t so bad,” Optimus told Bumblebee, who had not initially been a willing participant. 

      The younger ‘bot was seated beside the fire, helping Sari roast marshmallows. “It sure beats camping in winter,” he agreed.  

      Sari was bundled up in a warm blanket and looking as cozy as could be. “Told you camping was fun! Wait til Prowl and River get back with the firewood and we start telling some spooky stories.”

      Her friend scoffed. “Ha! You’re gonna have to try pretty hard to spook me-- what was that?!”

      A rustling sound coming from the forest nearby made him jump. Instinctively Optimus reached for the handle of his axe while reassuring his companions at the same time. “It’s probably just an animal.”

      “Just an animal? What if it’s a bear?!” Bee shot back. 

      “I don’t think there are any bears around here,” Sari mumbled around a mouthful of gooey marshmallow, utterly unperturbed. 

      Two familiar figures stepped into the circle of firelight, and Bee heaved a tremendous sigh of relief. “Oh, it’s just Prowl and River! I thought you guys were a bear!”

      Dropping an armload of sticks and logs a safe distance from the fire, Prowl put his servos on his hips and shook his helm. “Why would you be worried about a bear? It’d be far more afraid of you than you were of it.”

      River added their own, much smaller pile of firewood to Prowl’s and brushed bits of bark off the front of their flannel shirt. “Yeah, the only thing in these woods that would dare to try tanglin’ with you would be the Dogman.”

      Bee vented dismissively. “Pfft, the Dogman? That doesn’t sound so scary.”

      Their eyes widened in mock dismay. “You wouldn’t be so quick to say that if he showed up here tonight.”

      There was a stray leaf in their hair; Optimus leaned down and gently plucked it out for them. “Okay, I’ll bite. Who is the Dogman?”

      River flashed him their signature lopsided grin in thanks before resuming their playfully cautionary air. “He’s a fearsome monster with the head and tail of a wolf and the torso of a man. He walks on his hind legs and they say his howl sounds like a human scream. He’s been stalkin’ these very woods for centuries - ever since this was still Canadian territory, and the city was just a little settlement called Détroit. In those days folks referred to him in hushed whispers as Le Loup Garou...”

      Recognizing the beginning of a campfire story, Sari grinned from ear to ear and snuggled down in her blanket burrito. Bumblebee followed her lead, flopping forward onto his stomach with his chin in his servos, and Prowl sat beside him, crossing his legs pretzel-style. Wordlessly Optimus offered River a servo to help them climb up and settle themself on his thigh. They gave his foredigit a little squeeze of thanks before launching earnestly into their story. 

      “The very first record of the beast was a sighting by a young woman named Archange. On the way back to her home in the forest one night, she encountered a terrifying creature with the face and tail of a wolf and the torso of a man. It rose on its back legs and strode towards her. Her father heard her scream and burst from his cabin to drive the monster away. The next time, though, poor Archange would not be so lucky. On the day of her wedding, she and her groom had just finished their vows and shared their first kiss in a forest clearing surrounded by friends and family. Out of nowhere Le Loup Garou appeared in their midst and snatched up the bride, carrying her away into the forest. The wedding party searched for her, but all they ever found was her torn and bloodied veil.”

      The group made various small sounds of revulsion and sympathy. Sari drew her blanket a little more tightly around herself as River went on. “In the 1800s, a group of lumberjacks were harassing a stray dog that had wandered into their camp. They chased it into a hollow log, and one of them poked at it with a stick. At this the animal let out a bloodcurdling shriek, came out of the log, and stood up on its back legs. Those big burly lumberjacks ran for their lives.”

      “Serves them right for mistreating a dog,” Prowl sniffed. 

      River nodded in agreement before continuing. “Only a few years after that, an elderly widow reported to the local sheriff that a pack of dogs had been circling her house the previous night. She said they walked like men, and instead of barkin’ or howlin’ they screamed. The sheriff dismissed her as just a crazy old lady...until later when he came across an overturned wagon by the side of the road. The driver was nowhere to be seen. The horses were all dead, their eyes wide open with fright, but there was no blood anywhere or any sign of a struggle. The only clue as to what happened was the massive tracks in the dust all around the cart. The sheriff wanted to think they were wolf tracks, but he’d never seen a wolf that big.”

      “Ok, so...” Bumblebee wiggled into an upright position and hugged his knees to his chassis, his voice a little higher-pitched than usual as he pointed out mostly to reassure himself, “This was all way-back-when stuff.”

      “Oh, those were just the early sightings,” River told him. “In the 1930s a fisherman in his boat saw a pack of wild dogs on the riverbank where he meant to put in. Not wanting to tangle with ‘em as he came ashore, he fired his gun into the air to scare them off. All the dogs fled...except one, huge and black, which rose up on its hind legs and stared the fisherman down with its bright blue eyes. The fisherman, shaken, raised his gun again, and only then did the creature disappear into the woods.”

      Aside to Prowl, they added, “He did take a shot, by the way, but he missed.”

      “Good,” he said.

      They resumed their story. “In the ‘50s, a preacher found claw marks on the doors of his church. The newspaper reported that the marks were made by a dog...only this ‘dog’ would’ve had to been over 7 feet tall to be able to reach that high. The same thing happened in the ‘80s - claw marks around the door of a cabin. This time there were huge tracks around the scene...from a canine that walked on only two paws.”

      Sari wiggled a little closer to Bumblebee. “Th-that was all still a pretty long time ago, though. The Dogmen are all probably long gone by now.”

      “Or are they?” River raised their eyebrows emphatically, their eyes lighting up. “In 2000 in Battle Creek, right near where I was born, a woman saw what she thought was a big dog crossin’ the street, and she didn’t think a whole lot of it til it reached the other side of the road, stood up, and looked directly at her. And on a farm in Ann Arbor in 2015, a barbeque was crashed by a wolflike thing that came out of the forest. It stood 7 feet tall on its back legs, and its front paws looked like furred, clawed hands. The witness said it bared its teeth, and they thought it was tryin’ to smile at them. Then it dropped to all fours and ran back into the forest. That was the most recent reported sighting. Just about everyone I knew growin’ up had a story, either their own or somethin’ that someone else had told them. The county where I lived has been a hotspot since, like, the early 1900s.”

      “Really?” Optimus sounded particularly intrigued at this. “Have you ever seen it yourself?” 

      An emphatic nod from River. “When I was a teenager, I was drivin’ through the woods late at night and I saw somethin’ walkin’ by the side of the road. I knew in a heartbeat this was not a dog or wolf. It looked like a wolf, but way bigger, and its fur was red like an Irish Setter. Its eyes glowed bright white in my headlights, and I swear it looked right at me.”

      “What did you do?” he asked. 

      They made a wry face. “I really wanted to pull over and get a better look, but I was out past curfew and believe me, I was way more afraid of my mothers’ wrath than I was of the Dogman.”

      Looking thoughtful, Prowl crossed his arms over his chassis. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you actually believe this thing is real. You’ve studied zoology most of your life, River. Do you really think it’s scientifically possible for such a creature to exist?”

      “Well…” They thought a moment before answering, “We already know there’s an abundance of prey animals - deer and squirrels and things - enough to support wolves in parts of the state. I don’t think it’s that big of a stretch to suppose there could be a new subspecies of wolf evolving adaptations to help it survive in competition with humans. Still, bipedalism is something we would be able to trace through fossil records, which of course we don’t have. So as much as I’d like to believe, I’m skeptical about it.” They gave Optimus’ servo another squeeze and smiled. “Although a few years ago I was skeptical about the existence of aliens, too, so who knows?”

      “Maybe you humans should sleep in our cabs,” Optimus offered, nudging them playfully. “Just in case.”

      “Not yet, though!” Sari protested. “That was a really good story! I want another one! Do you know any more, River?”

      River looked to Bumblebee. “Do you wanna hear another one, Bee?”

      The bot in question made an effort to look more relaxed. “Uh, sure, why not? I mean, it’s not like I was scared or anything.”

      “Okay then,” River said with a grin. “I do know of one other local legend. Have you guys ever heard the story of the Nain Rouge? Ever since he placed a curse on the founder of Detroit, Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, the citizens of the city have said that whenever he is seen, terrible misfortune is sure to follow...”

[i-swear-this-is-for-homework]

a strange and savage home

They get drinks, and it’s... well, it’s really weird. And awkward. And terrifying. But also, strangely, almost nice. Spongebob Trivia is involved.

The pub is clean and cozy and warmly lit. It’s still early, and Jon is relieved to find the place mostly deserted when they arrive. Basira pushes past the handful of customers to claim a booth, and Daisy heads towards the bar to grab menus. Jon hesitates for a moment, torn between the two. He waits a beat too long to follow Daisy and ends up edging after Basira, feeling foolish and awkward and unreasonably afraid to speak to Basira alone.

She’s already seated by the time he makes it back. He notices that she has positioned herself very carefully, with her back to the wall and a good view of the bathroom and the entrance and the bar. He decides it’s best not to mention her wary, measuring gaze and instead sits opposite, with his back to the door. He’ll probably Know if anything’s coming up behind him. Hopefully. If not – well. There are worse ways to go.  

He wonders if he should say something to Basira and decides that he probably should. Then he wonders what he should say and decides that he has absolutely no idea. Then he wonders if he’s already waited too long to say anything and decides that he probably has. It would be too awkward to start a conversation now.  And he still has no idea what he would actually say. Lovely weather? How ‘bout those football scores? Sorry that I keep accidentally reading your mind?  He settles for avoiding her gaze and shifting uncomfortably in his seat until Daisy arrives, dropping menus on the table and squeezing in beside Basira.

She seems to notice the tension immediately. The menu provides Jon with a momentary shield from Daisy’s exasperated looks, but there’s only so long you can stare at a list of chips and beer before you have to make a decision. The waitress arrives far too soon for Jon to make the most of his temporary distraction, and takes away the menus, leaving him alone with nothing to protect him from Basira’s distrust and Daisy’s pointed looks.

Daisy’s the one that breaks the silence, in the end. “I didn’t drag you two out here to stare at each other miserably. We are gonna spend the night drinking and talking and bein’ normal. So stop it. Now. Basira, Jon is not trying to do you in over drinks.”

“I’m not trying to do you in at all!”

“And Jon, you can stop being weird.”

“I’m not doing anything!” Jon tries to protest.

“You’re being quiet and mope-y. We came here specifically so you could stop being mope-y. So… do something else. Talk. Drink. Find a cute stranger to go home with.”

Jon feels himself blushing. “That’s really not my thing.”

“Talking?”

He wants to bang his head onto the table. Repeatedly. “Cute strangers.” He hesitates, reconsidering. “But also talking, I suppose.”

Basira snorts. The drinks arrive. Daisy saves them both from talking by launching into a story about a case, a completely mundane, completely non-sectioned case, and it’s funny and good and Jon finds himself laughing alongside Basira as Daisy gets up for more drinks. He feels normal for the first time in… weeks, really, more normal than he has since waking up from the coma. He does end up talking to Basira about the weather (she hasn’t noticed it), and the football scores (she doesn’t follow football), and it’s a bit awkward but not too terrible (he also hasn’t noticed the weather and also doesn’t care much about football, so they have that in common at least). They skirt around work-related topics and it feels like neither one of them is saying quite what they mean, but Jon thinks it might be a good start. It feels like a normal conversation between normal co-workers, a normal night at a normal pub.

Of course, as soon as he thinks this, things quickly become not-normal.

Daisy arrives with another round of drinks – his third, he realizes – and as he finishes it off Jon realizes that he’s not in the least bit buzzed. This realization is immediately accompanied by another, significantly more disappointing realization. He puts down his drink and interrupts Basira’s account of a drug bust gone wrong.

“I don’t… I don’t think I can get drunk.”

Daisy bursts out laughing. “What, really?” She may already be a bit tipsy.

“I’m usually a bit of a light-weight. But I’m not feeling anything right now. Maybe it’s like, you know.” He doesn’t really know how to say this. Doesn’t really want to say it, except that it feels important, so he glances around the bar and lowers his voice. “Maybe it’s like an avatar thing?”

It sounds even stupider when he says it out loud than it did in his head, but Basira seems concerned by the question. “Jon, do you… do you Know that?”

“Um. I don’t know. I think so? It’s hard to tell, sometimes.”

Basira looks even more concerned. “What would that even mean?”

Jon shrugs, trying to ignore the pressure of knowledge building against the door in his brain. He could know exactly what it means, he could… but he doesn’t want to. He squints his eyes and pushes it away. At least, he tries to. A bit dribbles in, despite his best efforts.

“I think it’s because, well… I heal fast now.”

Basira nods. “The scalpel wound.”

“And the ribs.”

“Right.”

“Well, that might – possibly – extend to alcohol. It is technically a poison. My body might be… healing itself before I can feel the effects.”

Daisy leans forward. “And you don’t know if you know that because of your spooky mind powers?”

He hesitates. “I’m almost certain I know that because of my ‘spooky mind powers.’ I just… well. They haven’t been entirely reliable all the time. Sometimes, I think I know something but I don’t really Know it, or I Know something but I don’t realize I know it… it’s confusing.” He stares at the table as he speaks, not wanting to meet their eyes. They’d been having such a nice night, such a normal night, before he had to go and remind them of this Otherness, remind them that he is not human, that he is a monster and that he won’t ever really be able to –

Daisy interrupts his thoughts with another laugh. “Jonathon Sims. We are in a strict no-moping zone. We already talked about this.”

“I just found out that I can’t get drunk! I think I’m entitled to – ”

“You’re not entitled to anything, monster-boy. You don’t think you can get drunk?”

“I’m fairly certain, yeah.”

Daisy grins and motions the waitress over. “Well, there’s only one way to find out.”

And that’s how Jon finds himself staring at eight shots, lined up on the table in a neat row.

Basira still looks uncertain. “You know, if you’re wrong about this, that amount of alcohol could kill you. Or hospitalize you, at least.”

Jon takes the first shot. He doesn’t feel anything. “I’m pretty sure I can’t die.”

Basira’s lips quirk up at that, and Daisy laughs. “Jonathon Sims. Finally defeated by the horror of work drinks.”

“Work drinks are scary!” He takes another shot. He doesn’t feel anything.

Daisy is still laughing. “You’d think they are, from the way you shuffled in here an hour ago! You hid behind your menu for fifteen minutes!”

“I was thinking about my order!” He takes another shot. He doesn’t feel anything.

“You were avoiding us.” Basira says it matter-of-factly, without a hint of malice, but it still makes him bristle as he picks up the fourth glass. Daisy gets to tease him, but Basira?

“You’ve been avoiding me for weeks!” He takes another shot. “Not you, Daisy. But Basira! I woke up and you left me all alone!”

Basira goes very still. “How do you figure that?”

“You’ve made it very clear that you don’t trust me!” He takes another shot. “And don’t like me!” Another shot. “And don’t want me to be alive!” Another. “You left me alone! And I woke up different and wrong and with nobody to talk to and nobody to help me and I’m sorry you can’t trust anyone, I really am, but I have been there and done that and it does not work, it does not help anything, it didn’t help me and it didn’t help Tim and it didn’t help Sasha and it didn’t help Martin and – ”

“Jon.” He realizes with a start that Daisy is sitting next to him, grabbing his arm. When did she get there? The world is spinning. “Jon, you need to quiet down.”

The rest of the bar is watching them, he can feel it on the back of his neck, or maybe that’s just the Watcher that is always watching him. Or is he the Watcher that is always watching them? Maybe it’s both. All three? He feels a sudden, overwhelming need to be as unobtrusive as possible.

“Sorry.” He says it as quietly as he can. Maybe that was too quiet. He raises his voice a little. “Sorry.”

Daisy grimaces. “Yeah, I heard you the first time.” This strikes Jon as hilariously funny, although he can’t quite articulate why. Something about the way her eyebrows scrunch up. He dissolves into giggles as she pulls on his arm.

“Okay, Sims, you were really, spectacularly wrong on the whole can’t-get-drunk thing. Let’s get you out of here before you hurl. Or make Basira any angrier than she already is.”

She nudges him out of the booth, which is fine, the world is spinning pleasantly, and then she tries to make him stand up, which is not fine, and now the world is spinning unpleasantly. His brain is doing funny things, expanding and contracting in unpredictable ways, and he thinks he may have misplaced the door in his mind but then he realizes he can feel the door, he can feel it everywhere, and he can’t tell if it’s open or shut but either way there is a lot of information flowing everywhere at once, and his mouth is parroting what he knows an instant after he Knows it.

“Chelsea – that woman, near the door – is celebrating her birthday today. She’s told her friends she’s 39, but she’s lying, she’s really turning 43. One of the bartenders has been stealing money out of the tip jar for the past four months. He’s saving to buy a new TV. My blood alcohol content is 0.4035882352941177. That’s a lot, I think. Yeah, that’s definitely enough alcohol to kill me. Or, not me. A person, enough to kill a human person in general. Martin! He’s a human person. D’you know, he’s been sleeping in Elias’s office? He’s there right now, we could go see him! The first episode of SpongeBob SquarePants aired May 1st, 1999.”

That last one seems important for some reason. He thinks he should probably yell it out, in case someone didn’t hear him. “MAY FIRST, 1999!”

The Watched feeling is getting stronger, so he Watches back. A staring contest!

Basira is suddenly on his other arm, forcing him back into a seated position.

“Jon. Stop it! Stop… stop Looking at the whole bar.”

He doesn’t understand what she’s saying. Stop Looking? He could just as soon stop existing.

He focuses on her face, and that does seem to stop the Watching. Or maybe narrow it down? He’s looking at Basira, now, instead of the whole pub. She’s worried. Not angry. Was she angry a second ago? He can’t remember. The universe slows to a lazy roll as he sits. “I feel weird.”

“Yeah, that would be the eight shots in the space of two minutes. Jesus, Jon, you really better be right about your healing factor, or this night is going to end very badly.”

He’s having trouble forming any coherent thought other than: “I don’t want to go to the hospital again.”

“Yeah, we don’t want to take you to the hospital again.”

The hospital looms in his mind. “It’s cold and smells funny and there’s nothing to watch but dreams. I don’t like watching the dreams. And everything’s different when you come back, not good-different, bad-different, and Tim is dead and Martin’s gone and – ”

Daisy sits down on his other side. “Take a breath, Jon. We’re not going to the hospital.”

She’s close – too close – too-close-i-can’t-breath – and Jon tries to scoot away, but he bumps into Basira on his other side. He’s sandwiched between the two, and for a second it’s too tight, too tight, but then he remembers they’re people and not dirt and they can’t hurt him. And then he remembers he’s not in The Buried, he’s in a pub, and he’s sitting between his two co-workers and he definitely just lost control of… well, of everything. The world snaps back into focus as quickly as it first spun out of control, and the door in his mind stays open long enough to supply him with the knowledge of exactly what just happened before he musters the energy to slam it shut against the tide of information. He slumps.

“Oh god.”

“Back to normal, then?” Daisy’s eyebrow quirks upwards.

“I’m… wow.”

“Yup. That was… yeah.”

He plants his forehead firmly on the table. There are no words. There really are no words. What are you supposed to say when your boss gets drunk and loses control of his terrifyingly inhuman powers? What are you supposed to say when you are the boss and you’ve just gotten drunk and lost control of your terrifying inhuman powers?

Daisy’s the one to break the awkward silence. “Soooo. The good news is that you can get drunk.”

“And the bad news is I that never, ever should get drunk.”

“Yeah, that about covers it.”

His head is on fire. “I have the worst hangover of my life.”

Basira passes him a glass of water. “Wait two minutes. I’m sure your superpowers will kick in.”

“They’re not superpowers.” Jon can’t quite muster the energy to drink it, but he presses the cool glass against his forehead and closes his eyes.

Daisy snorts. “They’re basically superpowers.”

He’s going to argue when he feels a tap on his shoulder. He Knows it’s the waitress without having to lift his head. Normally that would scare him, but at the moment he can only feel relief. He doesn’t want to open his eyes.

“Excuse me? What’s your team name?”

“Our team name?”

“For the pub quiz? You got the first question correct. The air date for the first episode of SpongeBob SquarePants.”

Daisy bursts out laughing. Jon cringes against the noise, but his headache is already feeling better. He sits up. “No. No, we are absolutely not playing a trivia game.”

“Come on, Jon! Trivia is perfect for you!”

“That’s exactly why we’re not playing!”

Basira leans forward. “Our team name is… ‘The Archives.’ Team Archives.”

The waitress nods. “I’ll add you to the list. You might wanna come sit at the bar with the other teams.”

“We’ll be right up.”

“Really, Basira?” Daisy is still laughing. “The best you can come up with is ‘Team Archives’?

Jon starts in on his glass of water. “I mean. It’s not inaccurate.”

“Thank you, Jon. Now come on. Win us a pub quiz.”

“I am absolutely not about to win you a pub quiz. It’s cheating!”

Basira grins. “It is absolutely cheating. But it’s also what normal people do at normal pubs.”

“Normal people at normal pubs don’t generally have the key to infinite knowledge rattling around in their brains.”

Daisy grabs his hand and tugs him towards the bar. “We’re not moping tonight, monster-boy. I’m sure you can win us a pub quiz without accessing the spooky ‘infinite knowledge’ rattling around up there. You’ve got a ton of useless college degrees, yeah?”

“None of my college degrees were in SpongeBob trivia.”

Basira smiles as they settle themselves at the bar. “They really were useless, then.”

“Yes, I should definitely go back to school for a degree in American television, that would solve all of our problems.”

“Maybe not all our problems,” Daisy points at the next question. “But it would solve this one.”

What is the registry number for the star ship Enterprise?

Jon feels the knowledge pushing, but he ignores it. Basira knows, though – surprisingly, she seems to know a lot about American television. Especially science fiction and bad romance movies. Daisy teases her, but she’s answering more questions than Jon and Daisy combined, and the evening regains a semblance of normality as the quiz progresses. They don’t win, in the end, but they do come in second, and Jon is laughing as Basira high-fives him and Daisy bows dramatically as she accepts the second-place prize.

It’s a bar tab. Twenty more pounds to spend at the same pub.

“I guess it means we’ll have to come back soon!” Daisy presents the gift card to Jon, who immediately turns and presents it to Basira.

“Basira won it, not me. Besides, I. Well. I probably shouldn’t be drinking ever again.”

“You can still come to bars, monster-boy. And help us win the trivia! Maybe next time the topic will be old spooky books.”

“I suppose I could be useful in that situation, yeah.”

“It’s not about being useful, stupid, it’s about having fun. You’ll come next time, yeah?”

Jon smiles. “Yeah. I’ll come.”

“Good. And you, Basira, you don’t even get a choice, you’re our most valuable team member.”

“I guess I’ll come next time, too, then.” She pockets the gift card and things feel good, or at least okay, and Basira might be avoiding his eyes now that trivia is over, but at least he’s not hung-over anymore, and Daisy is still acting happy. Then Daisy excuses herself to use the bathroom, and Jon is left alone with Basira, and things are less good.

He said some things to Basira, when he was drunk, and he wants to take them back, but he’s not sure how. He hesitates a second too long (that keeps happening to him tonight), and Basira’s already speaking before he can decide what he wants to say.

“Jon. I’m sorry. About – well. About leaving you alone. I – ”

“No, Basira, you don’t have to apologize. I was drunk, I shouldn’t’ve brought it up.”

She takes a breath. “You were right, though. I didn’t think about what it might be like. For you.”

“No, that’s okay, you’ve had a lot going on and – “

“Shut up and let me apologize, okay?”

“Oh. Right. Uh… sorry.”

“Good. I’m not saying I trust you, or anyone really, but I am sorry. For making it seem like… like I didn’t want you alive. I didn’t not want you alive.”

He raises an eyebrow. “There’s a stunning vote of confidence.”

“What I mean is… I didn’t want you to die. But I didn’t know what you coming back would mean. For you. For the archives. Still don’t, really.”

“That makes two of us.”

“Yeah. So I’m sorry. For leaving you alone.” She quickly adds: “I’m not saying I trust you.”

“Yes, you’ve made that very clear.”

“But I am saying we should work together. Share information. Not… not leave each other alone.”

“Good.”

“Good?”

“Yeah.” He feels himself smiling. “Yeah, that sounds… good.”

“Good.”

“Good.”

Daisy gently punches his arm as she returns from the bathroom. “Leave you alone for two minutes and you both revert to monosyllables. You’re hopeless.”

“I’ll have you know, Basira and I just had a very civilized, very sober conversation about the future of the archives.”

Basira smirks and links arms with Daisy. “Speak for yourself. I’m definitely not completely sober.”

“And I thought we weren’t talking about work tonight.” Daisy links her other arm through Jon’s, forming a chain. “C’mon, monster-boy. As the only sober one among us, it is your duty to lead us home.”

He raises an eyebrow. “Is monster-boy a thing now? Is that going to stick?”

“It is absolutely going to stick.”

“Please, no.”

Basira laughs. “I like it. It’s... endearing.”

“But if you really hate it we can find you another nickname.”

As Jon leads them out onto the street, he realizes that he doesn’t really hate it. Also, he’s afraid that any other nickname she thinks of would be infinitely worse. “It’s fine. I suppose. Just – one request?”

“Yes?”

“Don’t tell Melanie. Please. About monster-boy or… or anything that happened tonight.”

Both women burst out laughing. Basira finds her breath first. “I solemnly swear that I will not tell Melanie anything. Despite the fact that this is the kind of gossip she lives for and if she ever did find out I hid it from her, she would never forgive me.”

Daisy adds, “But she is invited to the next night out! So maybe you should pace yourself a bit better next time if you really don’t want her to find out.”

“The shots were your idea, Daisy!”

“Yes, but you agreed surprisingly easily.”

“I was curious!”

“And that’s your whole problem, isn’t it?” Basira is a little too close to the truth with that comment, and she seems to notice it a second after she’s spoken. She freezes a bit, glancing at Jon to see how he’ll react.

Jon decides he can take the ribbing from her. Besides, it’s not like she’s wrong. “Yes, I admit that curiosity in general has not been great for my health or the general state of my humanity.”

That gets Basira laughing again, and Daisy too, and Jon finds himself smiling and leading them down the empty street, under the orangish glow of London’s reflecting clouds.

It takes a few more minutes for him to fully process Daisy’s statement. As the only sober one among us, it’s your duty to lead us home. Back to the archives. Home. He supposes it’s the only home they have, all of them, tied to the books and the statements and the knowledge and the desperate need to know, a strange and savage home that has trapped them all like flies in the center of a spider’s web. He brushes that troubling idiom out of his mind before he can examine it too closely.  But the fact remains that their home is not much of a home, more of a prison, really.

But then, has Jon ever really had a home? He doesn’t remember his parents much, just a vague feeling of happiness and love before they were taken away. His grandmother cared for him, gave him a place to live, but was it a home, really? He spent so much time wandering away. The only person he can really think of is Georgie, Georgie and The Admiral, waiting in their cozy apartment with some strange foreign spices simmering on the stovetop and tea waiting to be poured. But that’s not his home anymore, either, and it hurts to think about Georgie, so he focuses instead on the two arms linked through his, on Daisy and Basira, and he thinks that maybe the warm feeling in his chest is close enough to a proper home. When they finally stumble into the Institute, the hallways are dark and empty and echoing, but not lonely, and he thinks that his home is a bit less strange and savage than it was before.

[maraudersmessrs]

Remus Lupin and the Prisoner of Azkaban--- Chapter 8: Protection, Connection

Ao3 link

Chapter 1 / Chapter 2 / Chapter 3 / Chapter 4 / Chapter 5 / Chapter 6 / Chapter 7 / Chapter 8 / Chapter 9 / Chapter 10 / Chapter 11 / Chapter 12 / Chapter 13 / Chapter 14 / Chapter 15 / Chapter 16 / Chapter 17 / Chapter 18 / Chapter 19 / Chapter 20 / Chapter 21 / Chapter 22 / Chapter 23 / Chapter 24 / Chapter 25 / Chapter 26 / Chapter 27 / Chapter 28 / Chapter 29 / Chapter 30 / Chapter 31 / Chapter 32 / Chapter 33 / Chapter 34

Remus jerked awake amidst chaos. It one moment, he hadn’t even been aware he had fallen asleep and the next, he was in pitch black, filled with squabbling young voices. It took several seconds of intense confusion to place himself–his flat? The park? The Leaky Cauldron? Captive somewhere, in the First War?– before his awareness seeped back. Train. Dark? Why….

He could feel something. Not necessarily intuition, not exactly wolf sense, but something deep in his chest felt something stirring at the end of the train, something that brought silence and…

”Not here, I’m here!” someone nearby complained.

Sleep still slowed his thinking, like wading up out of glue. Students… He should… There was something.

There came a loud, “Ouch!”

He was still trying to piece together a plan of action when something in him went cold. In that wash of chill clarity, he stood. “Quiet!” His voice was rusty from disuse and sleep, but it did what he needed; the others in the train car fell silent.  Something was coming down the corridor. He could feel it.

No. They wouldn’t be here.  Surely, no one would let them on the train, near the students. He drew his wand and pointed the tip to his palm, conjuring a pale, cold flame that washed over the cabin. 5 young faces were staring at him apprehensively, rendered slightly ghoulish in the flickering light. With a start, he recognized Harry, watching him without recognition, a ghost’s face with none of the memories. Turning his attention to the door, he rose, measuredly, wary, warning the children, “Stay where you are.”

He had intended to face whoever– whatever– it was in corridor, but the door have a soft click and slid open slowly with all the gravitas of an executioner. Immediately, all the twinges in his bones and body were magnified as if he were being held under freezing water and the hand holding the flame shuddered involuntarily. The thing that glided in was tall enough to be unnerving on it’s own, but the vile presence that cloaked it….The Dementor sucked in a rasping gulp and Remus nearly staggered, a cloying dullness weighing at his knees, his chest. So tired. So weak. And to delude himself that he knew anything about being a Professor, about protecting anyone. When had he ever been anything except a burden? When had he ever had anything genuinely helpful to anyone? Never. Only diseased. Only the one who needed accommodations for him to even be near normal people. Only a thing. His scars throbbed. He tasted blood in his mouth. Not his. Oh, god.

Look how you’ve helped, his mind hissed, dredging up the memory of James’ body, pale and disturbingly limp in death, lying amid the rubble of his house. Glasses cracked and crooked, mouth open, empty eyes wide. There had been a note written on the palm of one slack hand; need milk. What did you do for them? Lily had been face down, splinters all through her red hair. One of her socks had been missing. Where were you then? The single bloodless finger, foraged from amid other bodies, other parts, other people who did no more wrong that pick the wrong day to take their children out to go shopping. The frigid air seemed to be stuck somewhere in his chest as he stared numbly up at this…thing.

Like you. A dark creature. Like you.

Something collapsed across his feet. Someone. Blankly, he stared down until the vague, pale shapes coalesced themselves into a recognizable pattern against his conscious mind. Harry. NO, said something louder, stronger, angrier than the other voice. You will NOT.

Rage was hot. Rage was clarifying, like a fire searing away cobwebs until he could see and think. Dementor. Unacceptable. Children. No. Joy, said the fierce voice. You need joy.

He had that. He stepped forward, over Harry, in front of Harry and drew his wand from his pocket. “None of us are hiding Sirius Black under our cloaks. Go.” The rust in his voice was gone, burned away.

The Dementor simply watched him, beginning to draw in another breath. I’m going home, he focused. The feasts and halls were ahead. The memories and the students and the scars of old pranks, the professors and the best, brightest, most loving years of his life. Second chances. Getting to know Harry. Magic. I’m going HOME, he pushed savagely, feeling the gloom slough away from the corners of his mind. His hands were warm again. There was a brightness in his chest. I belong here and I’M GOING HOME. Yes! “Expecto Patronum!”

The wolf burst from his wand and charged the Dementor with the speed of a shot, driving it away before it, into the corridor. And off, he focused down the length of his arm, into the wand, into the spell. Off this train. Out into the wastes. No more children. No more chances.

He only relaxed when the lights sputtered back on, shrinking the cavernous air the car had taken on in the midst of terror, back down to cozy warmth. He took a moment to extinguish the crackling flames in his hand and take a steadying breath. You must be quicker. Stronger. Better. You’re no longer fighting for just yourself. Turning, he saw a gangly, freckled boy and bushy haired, anxious looking girl already leaning over Harry. Everyone flung out their hands for an anchor when the floor gave a jolt that accompanied a piercing squeal as the Hogwarts Express lunged forward once again, quickly gaining speed. The other boy in the seat stood to hover timidly over the girl’s shoulder as the freckled one began to slap Harry about the face. A tad unwarranted, but he could see the worry behind his force. How could this have been allowed to happen?

“Harry! Harry! Are you alright?”

Even when he opened his dazed eyes, Harry looked moments from passing out or throwing up, pale and sweaty, shaking. Remus knew how he felt. As they students hauled Harry back up onto the seat with them and began talking, Remus saw the small red haired girl looked almost as bad off as Harry did and began rummaging through his pockets. Chocolate, he had gotten chocolate…ah, there. He began snapping off chunks of the largest bar, making them all start and whip around to stare at him. 5 pairs of bewildered, uncertain eyes. Yes, this was a place where they were supposed to be safe and yet, they were attacked, emotionally, mentally. Who would have prepared them for that? The smolder of fury was beginning to rekindle in his gut. How had they come on board? “Here,” he offered the first and biggest to Harry before moving directly to the shaking girl. “Eat it.” Anger made his voice clipped, and so he softened in deliberately with a small smile to her. “It’ll help.”

Poor Harry swayed in his seat, looking green and like he’d been hit by the train and stared straight at him. “What was that thing?”

Something none of you should have had to deal with yet. Or at all. “A Dementor,” he replied, passing a piece and a reassuring nod to the others. “One of the Dementors of Azkaban.”

All of them looked lost, incredulous. No one moved to put the chocolate anywhere near their mouths. “Eat,” he prompted. “It’ll help. I need to speak to the driver, excuse me…”

He left, trying to uncurl his fingers from around his wand in his pocket. We do not curse other Hogwarts staff members, we do not curse other Hogwarts staff members– He didn’t care if this decree came from Prime Minister Fudge himself; these monsters were used to torture criminals, not school students. Unthinkable. He rapped smartly on the Engineers door, waited impatiently for another moment, then used a bit more force. His knuckles burned, but so did the kernel in his chest. A scuffle, then a young-ish wizard, stocky and blonde, poked his head out uncertainly. “Ye-es?”

“Hello. Professor Lupin. I have a question.”

“Um…yes?”

“What exactly is going on, here?”

The man looked a bit lost, for he automatically scanned the hall behind Remus before focusing back on him. “I don’t…”

“You stopped the train.”

“Well, yes. There were…I mean, there were Dementor’s on the tracks and…I can’t just…they wanted to search the train.”

“Yes,” he said, tersely. “I noticed. Why did you stop and let them?”

“They’re…they’re trying to find Black, ain’t they? They’re set to be at Hogwarts, I was told.”

“Yes. Hogwarts. Is this Hogwarts?”

The engineer looked pleadingly at him. “Sir–”

Remus stopped himself. Closed his eyes, took a breath. Not intentional, he had not done it on purpose, it was thoughtless. Well, and that was the problem. He opened his eyes again, trying to tamp down his righteous indignance. “I apologize. I realize you are trying to do your best. It’s a scary situation,” he said, gently, and was rewarded to see relief make the man sag. He had obviously been bracing. People don’t often knock on engineer’s doors, he supposed, for good news. “But,” he continued. “Were you told to do this?”

“Well, not in so many words…”

Remus’ lips tightened. This was not the man to take his grievance to. Dumbledore seemed to be his next stop. What better a way to start off the school year than complaining to your boss, right? “I see. I worry for the students and their mental health. One never knows what struggle someone else is going through in their own minds.”

The man looked a little shamefaced. “Er….”

“I’m sorry to have disturbed you. How far out are we?”

“About 10 minutes.”

He nodded and turned on his heel, making his way back to the car. When he came back in, every student was still holding their chocolate, still looking whey faced and drained. He couldn’t help a small smile from tugging his lip. “I haven’t poisoned that chocolate, you know….”

Everyone started, guiltily, and began nibbling with surprise on their faces. Well, I HAD told you you would feel better… “We’ll be at Hogwarts in 10 minutes,” he announced, then added, concerned. “Are you alright, Harry?”

The poor boy gained some color in his cheeks, but it seemed to be shame. “Fine.”

Remus sighed. Well…welcome home.

[j-writes-and-suffers]

NaNoWriMo Day Seven

Actually waking up to his alarms this time, Philip was relieved to see that his phone was fully charged, and he wasn’t spectacularly late. He had time to eat a real breakfast, shower, and even put on clean pants. He realized he should probably dress comfortably; the parade around town would be a hell of a workout, and slacks were definitely not workout clothes. Settling on basketball shorts and an Elk Grove t-shirt, he headed out the front door, much more energetic than most mornings.

By the time he arrived, students and faculty were gathering by the football field. Lined up in the parking lot were a dozen parade floats, the drivers waiting patiently for their cue to head out. Philip found his liberal arts colleagues standing near one of the frontmost floats. “Is this always so big?” He asked, a little surprised by the massive turnout.

“Usually, yes.” Dr. Samuels replied. “Good to see you’re punctual this time.”

Philip forced a smile, wondering if his boss would ever let him live that down. “Yes, sir. I tried my best.”

“Good. Come on, the parade is about to leave. Get in position.”

Philip nodded, following his coworkers to their place in the parade. One by one the floats filed out, accompanied by hoards of Stags chanting pridefully. As they made their way into the town, passersby smiled and waved. When they marched through neighborhoods, many of the families, especially those with small children, were standing outside, cheering and staring in awe. Even though they saw it every year, something as colourful and energetic as a parade was bound to win over kids; they squealed in delight, when the mascot, Stanley Stag, waved in their direction.

The march around town was long and effortsome, covering nearly five miles and taking upwards of three hours. The weather was nice, though, and everyone was in good, if tired, spirits by the time they returned to campus. As the parade disbanded, Philip made a beeline for the picnic. Breakfast had been hours ago, and he was starving.

The courtyard was filled with the smell of homemade food and the chatter of hungry students. Most of them had only been eating takeout and cafeteria trash as of late, so this was a welcome and delicious change. Philip took a deep breath, savoring the smell, and his stomach growled. Grabbing a plate, he hurried to get in line, not wanting to miss out on anything. He piled his plate high with food, asking for a helping of anything that looked good. As he made his way down the row of tables, his eyes locked on a tray of cheeseburger sliders; he could see bacon peeking out of the buns, and his mouth started to water.

“Would you like to try one?” A familiar voice broke Philip’s starving focus, and he looked up, blinking in surprise.

“Oh, uh, sure, yeah…” He squirmed where he stood, not sure how he was supposed to speak to Lucien at the moment.

“Is something on your mind?” The taller man frowned as he placed a slider on Philip’s plate. “You look upset.”

The young blond looked up at Lucien with confusion. “Well, I mean… do… do you still wanna talk to me?”

“Why wouldn’t I?” Lucien raised an eyebrow.

“You abandoned me at the poetry slam yesterday. I figured you’d gotten sick of me.”

“No, no!” The brunette shuffled awkwardly behind the table. “I was just a bit... overwhelmed. It was getting really loud, and everyone was crowding us… I didn’t mean to ditch you or anything. I just kind of freaked out.” He admitted, staring shamefully down at his shoes.

“So… you still wanna do dinner next weekend?” Philip asked hopefully.

Lucien nodded. “Yes, of course!” He glanced down the line, looking at the hungry students piling up behind Philip. “We can talk more later. I think the crowd is going to kill you if you don’t move soon.”

“Right! Shit. See you later!” Spirits raised, Philip waved and hurried off down the table.

As the sun started to set, the food was running out. Many picnic-goers had left, and the remaining ones were simply waiting for the bonfire. Long finished eating, Philip climbed to his feet, gathering abandoned paper plates and half-eaten snacks to toss in the trash. As the sun went down, a few of the teachers gathered to start the fire. Another group brought out hot water heaters and cocoa mix, as well as ingredients for s’mores. Philip had cozied up on a bench, content to sip hot chocolate and chill, when someone dropped down onto the seat adjacent to him.

“Evening. How has your day been?” Even in the dim light, Lucien’s green eyes seemed to glow. A smile flickered across his face as he moved closer to Philip.

“It’s been… It’s been good. I’m kinda tired, but I ate good food, and the parade was really fun. It was great to see all the excited kids. Some of them even walked with us for a bit.”

“That sounds lovely.” Lucien mused, resting his arm across the back of the bench. “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself.”

Philip nodded, “Yeah… me, too.” He found himself unconsciously scooting closer to Lucien, almost leaning against the taller man. Lucien didn’t seem to mind it, his arm moving from the bench to Philip’s shoulders. The young blond sighed contently; for the first time all week, he was properly comfortable and totally relaxed.

The growing chill in the air was countered by the fire’s radiance, its glow casting long shadows around the populous courtyard. Students and teachers sat around the softly pulsing flame, roasting marshmallows and making friendly conversation. The last glimmer of sunlight faded, and the half moon shined overhead. Now that it was properly dark, Professor Noctus came creeping out of the administration building, a mischievous grin on his dimly-lit face.

“Good evening, friends. Would you like to hear a ghost story?”

While most of the crowd murmured in approval, once voice piped up from the back. “You’re not that scary. I bet your stories suck.”

“Oh?” Balthazar raised an angular black eyebrow. “You think my stories are bad, or you think my storytelling is bad?”

“Both. Ghost stories are lame, and so is your dumb gimmick.” The brazen boy was hard to make out in the firelight, but he had stood up to confront Noctus, and was planted firmly in place.

Philip and Lucien exchanged a glance, wary of what was to come. They waited patiently, but to their surprise, the professor hardly reacted.

“Then why not leave?” He shrugged, “If my stories bore you, get out. Or, if you’ll be so kind as to tolerate them, sit down and shut up.”

The boy dropped into his seat, bitter that he hadn’t started a real argument. Meanwhile, Balthazar had taken a candle from his pocket, lighting it in the fire. He held it beneath his chin, his features more sharp and bizarre than even in the flickering uplight. He bared alarmingly angular teeth in a broad grin, and Philip wondered to himself whether they were filed down or prosthetic.

Well into the night, Professor Noctus told tales, of monsters and men, and the world they shared. He warned of children whisked away in the night, regaled about families brutally slaughtered, even spoke of good friends that had met rather gruesome demises. Though none of the stories were remarkably original, the air filled with a chill that couldn’t be fought with fire. The audience’s souls grew cold as Balthazar drew them in, his remarkable wordplay and flare for the dramatic making generic old tales refreshingly horrific.

As the moon crept across the sky, the fables grew more ominous, more gruesome, and more bone-chillingly awful. Students started to dissipate, growing fearful or uncomfortable; certainly none left of boredom, for as the tales grew more terrifying, they also got more captivating. As a particularly nasty story drew to its close, Philip pressed against Lucien, shivering and snuggling up.

Without saying a word, the older man slipped off his jacket, wrapping it around the trembling blond. Though Philip’s choice of attire had been appropriate for a long walk during the day, the temperature had dropped massively, and even the fire wasn’t enough to make up for his light shorts and thin shirt. Lucien’s jacket was a welcome addition to his outfit - soft and insulated, it soothed the chill that had been creeping up Philip’s spine. He felt a tickle in his nose and stifled a soft sneeze, sighing in annoyance.

The evening drew on, and Philip continued to sniffle and sneeze. Lucien reached up to feel his forehead, worrying that the younger man might be ill. “You’re not feverish, I wonder what’s wrong…”

“I don’t know.” Philip shrugged, his voice nasal from congestion. “I’d say maybe allergies, but I don’t think anybody brought their dog…”

“Dog?” Lucien’s voice wavered awkwardly.

“Yeah,” Philip nodded, “I’m allergic. You’re probably confused cause told you about Callie, but she’s an Afghan. They’re hypoallergenic.”

Lucien nodded, pretending that’s why he was troubled, “Ahh, I see. That makes more sense.”

“She’s pretty great…” Philip mused, “you should meet her sometime.”

“Maybe,” Lucien shrugged. “I’m not great with animals.”

Philip shook his head, “Don’t worry, man. She’s super friendly. Really chill, too.”

“Oh… sounds… nice, then. It’s getting awfully late. I should probably leave. Feel free to keep the jacket for tonight, I know you have a long walk home.” Lucien climbed to his feet, waving briefly before slinking off into the darkness.

Philip frowned. He hadn’t wanted Lucien to go yet; it felt like they were starting to bond better, and he was a little uncomfortable listening to Balthazar’s stories alone. After one more hair-raiser, he ended up heading home himself, the whole way flinching and squealing at every snapped twig and shadowy movement. He continued to sneeze throughout the walk, grumbling under his breath about allergies and what the hell and he didn’t even notice a dog. By the time Philip got home, it was the wee hours of the morning, and he was ready to pass out. Still dressed, he curled up on the bed, tugging Lucien’s jacket around him.