#if we were on the woods and we're having a great time preparing for the Apocalypse and the starship

[he-on-honeydew-hath-fed]

Dreamlog

[backfromtwitterforw]

Pomme's diary found in the place she was with Richas (30 first pages)

Day 117

We walked for so long, longer than a day.

Chayanne thinks we'll be safe if we're far enough. I doubt that, because no matter what threatened us manage to find my secured bunker 200 000 blocks away, and even succeded to get into my room to put its letter. Honestly, I think we'll never be really safe anywhere.

Chayanne was panicking so much that we didn't even have time to prepare stuff before leaving. I tried to talk him out ot it, but they were all already gone and I couldn't leave them alone.

At least, I had the reflex to take one of my scythe. And fortunately so.

During our journey, I had to fight a lot of monsters. It's a miracle we all survived without armor or anything else.

We weren't far from death on multiple occasions.

I'll protect them no matter what.

That's a promise.

Day 118

We could build a little improvised camp. We're exhausted from the walk we had, we don"t have alot but it's better than nothing. The most important for now is to survive.

Dapper made a small makeshift field and planted seeds and potatoeshe had collected along the way, while we prepared tools and cut wood.

Tallulah played the flute to try to confort us and give us courage. She even leanred one of my favorite songs on the flute to try to make me smile again.

We make progress, slowly but surely.

Day 119

I think each one of us has tools now. We continued to gather ressources, especially trying to find enough food for everyone, because Dapper's field is not enough. But we didn't have great success, we have to be comptent with the bare minimum. We'll try to build a small shelter tomorrow.

It's hard to do anything because we are all exhausted from the trip. We found materiel to make sleeping bags, so they will finally be able to rest in better conditions.

I'll try to stand guard and watch over them during the night.

Day 120

We were able to start the construction of a small makeshift shelter. It doesn't look great but at least we have something to be protected now.

Truth be told, I haven't slept in a few days, I cannot allow myself to sleep.

We could be attacked at any time, by monsters or by the thing that threatened us. I'm scared it may trace our steps.

On multiple occasions, Chayanne asked me on multiple occasions to share the watch during the night, but I refused systematically.

I'd rather let him rest, and watch over Tallulah during the day. He's the one she trusts the most, he needs to be there to for her, and to protect her.

But I feel the tiredness winning over me.

I fight against exhaution as hard as I can, but I can see my reaction time and my moves becoming slower.

Day 121

The shelter is almost done, I'm so proud of them. They never let themselves be overwhelmed by fear and they do their maximum for everyone to be safe. We watch over one antother and that warms my heart to see it.

On the other side, food is continuously missing.

It soon gonna become a huge problem if we don't find a solution, we won't be able to hold much longer with the ressources we actually have...

I believe it's been a week I haven't slept, I'm trying to stay awake with always being busy. As soon as I am not, I feel my eyes closing by themselves.

It's especially difficult during the night. I spend them looking at the campfire crackling and making sure it doesn't extinguish by itself. We found material to make a lighter, so I play with it to pass the time: I found out the burning feeling is particularly effective to wake me up.

I miss my parents. I miss them excruciatingly.

It's so hard that they're not here with us. I regret all the time that we couldn't leave any note, any letter. They must be terribly worried for us, i feel terribly guilty...

I hope they won't resent us...

Day 122

Dapper amost died.

Dapper.

Almost.

Died.

We were talking about the pending lack of food, and he suggested we could explore the surroundings to find something to eat. I know exploring is something he adores, and he knows better than anyone the different kinds of existing ressources, so I also thought it was a good idea.

I suggested to come with him, but i assured me I didn't have to worry about him, that it wouldn't take him long to come back, and that it would be better for me to stay with the others to watch over them. So, I accepted. I trusted him.

But he went to fight against a skeleton. Or at least, what looked like a normal skeleton, but it wasn't one; this one had an armor and was able to shoot arrows at an abnormal speed, in addition to having knockback.

He thought it was a normal skeleton and attacked. But the skeleton was stronger and knocked him off.

I ran.

I ran so fast, every second mattered.

He cannot die, not like this, not now.

If he dies, I'll never forgive myself.

I managed to find him, and I could finish the skeleton off.

I ran to him to save him, just in time.

With tears in my eyes, I asked if he was ok and why he wanted to attack that monster way to strong for us even though we have no armor and barely any defense.

He just answered that he wanted bones to make bonemill, to speed up the growth of the seeds in the field. And also because he wanted to make a bone mask for Chayanne, since he didn't have his fetish skull.

He was so nonchalant in explaining it all, as if he didn't care about being do close to death.

[your-local-bookworm]

Forgotten Faults.

PERCY JACKSON × DAUGHTER OF ARES!READER.

Summary: Things get confusing when the son of Poseidon grows an unexplainable liking for a daughter of Ares who seems to be adamant on ignoring him.

Part 2

Warnings: Battle in Camp ?? Reader is hurt. Kampé. I don't know, honestly. Percy is a very confused teenager.

Note: This part is more focused on the battle than Percy and Reader's relationship, because it will only seem realistic as they're not yet very close.

Fourteen year old still, but Percy is preparing for his first real battle. He wonders if it'll be like the ones he watched in movies as a kid or that gory movie he watched with Paul when his mom wasn't home. He hopes it's not the latter.

It was the biggest military operation he'd ever seen at camp. Everyone was at the clearing, dressed in full battle armour, but this time it wasn't for capture the flag. The Hephaestus cabin had set up traps around the entrance to the Labyrinth razor wire, pits filled with pots of Greek fire, rows of sharpened sticks to deflect a charge. Beckendorf was manning two catapults the size of pickup trucks, already primed and aimed at Zeus's Fist. Apollo's and Hermes's cabins were scattered in the woods with bows ready. Many had taken up positions in the trees. Even the dryads were armed with bows, and the satyrs trotted around with wooden cudgels and shields made of rough tree bark. Annabeth went to join her brethren from the Athena cabin, who had set up a command tent and were directing operations. A grey banner with an owl fluttered outside the tent. The security chief, Argus, stood guard at the door. Aphrodite's children were running around, straightening everybody's armour and offering to comb the tangles out of the horsehair plumes. Even Dionysus's kids had found something to do. The god himself was still nowhere to be seen. The Ares cabin was on the front line, drilling in phalanx formation with Clarisse calling orders. He failed to track Y/N, though. Also Grover and ... where's Nico??

It appears all of Percy's friends chosen to disguise themselves. Or not, he spotted Nico exiting the Apollo cabin, followed closely by Y/N. Nico took positioned himself beside the Dionysus kids while she came running up to where Chiron was next to him.

"We're all ready, Chiron." she said, boldness radiating off her like moonlight. It set her aglow. It was a nice thing to remember if he died in this battle. He thought of his mom and Paul, Annabeth and Grover, Tyson, Luke, Clarisse and her. So many lives at risks just because some lousy gods got into a fight with their father... grandfather... whatever.

Y/N took a place beside him. "You alright Jackson?"

"Couldn't be any more prepared for this"

When it began it was unlike anything he'd been in before. But much more like the kid's movies, must be because of the monsters. Paul's movie was only humans and horses. When Kampé attacked the Athena tent, Percy and Annabeth stroke back, but the poison was clouding them both.

"Come on" he shouted "We need help!"

But no help came. Everyone was either down or scared or fighting. And when Kampé took a go at Annabeth, Percy was convinced he'll have to witness his friend die, because Chiron's arrows were too late and so was Percy.

Then a sword sprouted through Kampé and Percy saw your figure emerge from behind. Kampé fell and last of Chiron's arrows hit Y/N instead.

Y/N let out a scream as the arrow bit into her flesh and blood streamed down her arm. Her knees hit the ground splattered with her own blood. Percy's heart plummeted.

"Now" Annabeth shouted, eyes trailing the fallen figure beside her. She rose and almost hit Kampé. Almost. But Kampé was fast and in the next five seconds, Annbeth too rolled onto the ground, crying in pain, with blood pouring from the side of her head

To Percy's great, no, huge .. wait. Provoking every bit of satisfaction in Percy's heart, the next cry he heard was from Kampé as Mrs. O'Leary threw her away like a discarded can of soft drink.

His eyes followed upon Daedalus and Briars the hundred handed one charging into battle

When the chaos deceded and night sky ruled over them, Percy retured to his friends. He was more glad than he can express when he found them all on one piece.

Dinner had no order and class, every demigod sat with their friends and Percy found Annabeth, Grover, Nico, Y/N and a Apollo guy, Will Solace? Will Slice? Will Whatever. Sitting on the Poseidon table. His pride soared but that was before his brain clicked and concluded that the Apollo cabin were treating to everyone and had set up their agenda in the dining space.

He took his short stroll up to Cabin 3's table.

Y/N, Will and Annabeth were indulged in conversation Nico tried to fight of his fatigue while Will bandaged around Y/N's shoulder, the gaping black hole now under protective layers of gauge.

"Not a summer goes by that I don't have to treat your bloody wounds." Will scolded her

"You humour me, Solace. This is only my second summer in camp half-blood."

"And you've got yourself in trouble at least a dozen times. Your arms are all scarred"

"It's because I am a dutiful camper. A born warrior. I wear my scars like badges of honour and braver--."

"You are born clumsy."

"I can still punch you."

"Not with a shoulder like that."

"Hey there everyone?" Percy announced his presence

'He-Hey seaweed brain." Annabeth smiled

"Hello Jackson."

"Hi Percy, now before everything else. You got any injuries I should know about."

"Oh, no i don't " Percy replied, "Could've just taken a shower if I did anyway."

"You know what Will?" Y/N turned to the said boy, "Never thought of it this way, but what if I throw myself in a fire pit and see if it heals my injuries?"

Percy wasn't sure if he's ever seen her joke.

"And what if you don't?" Will replied, tugging the last of gauge around her shoulders. He sat beside Nico.

"You shouldn't, really" Annabeth added, looking genuinely concerned.

"Alright." Y/N shrugged.

"I'll head to my cabin. See you lot later" Annabeth stood up. "Thank you once again Y/N, goodnight. You too Percy."

"Goodnight, Wise girl."

"Goodnight Anne, don't worry about it too much."

Percy turned to Y/N when Annabeth departed, "What were you talking about?"

"Luke."

"Oh" Percy didn't want to think of him now. " Can I ask you something?"

Percy knew he shouldn't. Speaking facts, every bit of conscience that remained inside his head bargained not to. But he did anyway.

"Why do you hate me?" No no no. That came out wrong. He resisted from face palming into the table.

"What?" Y/N stared at him. Similar expressions were to be casted upon the two boys sitting with them.

"You.. you always seem to uh, ignore me." He stumbled upon his words. Not as bad as his heartbeat though.

"The Ares and Poseidon children don't have the best relationship now, do they?"

"It feels more than that."

Y/N remained silent. Engulfed in her thoughts.

"When I first came to camp, last summer. A few week after that, you dropped a wave on me. By the lake."

Memories flooded his brain, that was her?!

"Never apologised." Y/N added.

"I didn't know it was you!!"

"You completely ruined my sketchbook!"

"Unintentionally! I am sorry." Percy was redeemed speechless.

"As you should be."

"I am. Really. I'm sorry."

"I forgive you. But if you're looking for a way to pay me back, could you please bring me a glass of water?"

"Sure"

Moments later when Percy came back with a bottle full of water. Y/N was once again engaged in talking with Will Solace. He handed it to her.

"Thank you."

"Thank you too. For saving our heads back there."

"We're all in this together, Jackson."

"So, peace?" Percy suggested, thrusting his hand forward. Excitement erupted in his chest when she took it.

"For now, Goodnight boys." And she walked of i to the night.

"Goodnight!" Will called back.

'Now that is a win." Percy thought to himself on his way back to Cabin 3.

Well, percy and reader are friends now, i do have plans for a few mort parts to this.

[lostmyremembrall]

Ohmygosh happy birthday!! Hope you have a good one and celebrate with your loved ones today :))

Could i request for 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐞? — 🐍 Go on a date with Tom, Ominis, or Sebastian! Send in anything you're comfortable sharing about yourself (such as your love language, 16 personalities), and I'll write a mini HC date, specifically curated for you.

I'm a hufflepuff (she/her), and my love language is physical touch and words of affirmation. I love doing arts and crafts, and I love cats (sorry tom). I'm also an ENFP.

Anyways, happy birthday again!! Have a very blessed one, and I wish you a good day ahead <33

🐍 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐂: 𝐓𝐨𝐦

Touch-Starved! Tom x Reader

A/N: Thank you so much for the birthday wish!! And I indeed had a great one (had some dim sum). We're very similar in nature it's comical. Also an ENFP, love cats and arts&crafts (embroidery, wood carving, etc). Even the love languages! I have a feeling we'd get along perfectly if we knew each other haha. Anyway, thank you for participating and I hope you'll enjoy it!

You're the embodiment of "Every Dark Lord needs an emotional support Hufflepuff"

He seriously needed an open-minded person like you, who would be willing to just be there for him.

Tom finds your enthusiasm infectious, often reluctantly breaking into a smirk at seeing you smile.

You're brilliant at making connections, gaining a deep understanding of yourself and others.

-----

Your love blossomed in the Room of Requirement.

On his patrol, Tom needed a place to hide, the panic getting to him as dark thoughts overwhelmed him.

He was desperate, and heaved a sigh of relief as the familiar door appeared on the wall.

He froze, when he opened the door, however.

It was you, in your own atelier, with all the tools prepared for any arts and crafts you might be interested in.

You froze as well, not having expected a guest.

Tom glanced around the arts&craft tools.

How on earth were these supposed to help him?

But, being the perceptive and good-natured Hufflepuff that you are, you noticed his dishevelled state.

You asked him if he was doing alright.

Tom couldn't speak. His teary eyes only staring at you and his jaw clenched.

Without a word, he took slow steps towards you.

And buried his face into your shoulder.

Your eyes widened at the tall man that had to crane his neck to reach your shoulder, his fists shaking at his sides and refusing to let a tear drop.

Slowly, you wrapped your arms around him.

Tom's shoulders relaxed significantly at the warmth that enveloped him.

He buried himself deeper into your embrace.

Realising then, that your embrace was his hiding place, shielding him from all of his dark thoughts.

-----

Tom is very possessive about having his emotional support Hufflepuff all for himself.

It took a lot of adjusting and discussions in the beginning.

Tom would practically hog all of your free hours.

And Tom is very selfish when it comes to your kindness and love.

-----

It was only when there was an apparent possibility that you might leave him, that Tom truly began to reconsider.

I can't lose her now.

Tom panicked. Where will he go to hide if she is out of his reach?

Tom grows determined to do anything if it means keeping you. Even if that may require him to change.

He begins taking an interest in you, your values, your interests, and your dislikes.

And questions what he can offer you.

-----

He is timid at first. But slowly grows accustomed to physical affection over time.

He begins with a gentle kiss on your hand.

Then your forehead.

Your cheek.

It ignited something in him when you giggled in response.

Like he was hearing an embodiment of sunshine.

He feels a grin spreading on his lips as well. And his arms swiftly take you, spinning you in the air and letting your skirt flow before embracing you.

He's like a touch-starved cat, in the sense that he grows more and more affectionate over time as he learns to trust.

Rubbing his cheeks against yours. Rubbing the tip of his nose against yours. Thumbing your cheek as he studies you with absolute adoration in his eyes.

It became easier as Tom saw how physical touch made you happy.

Wanting to see you smile, and hear that beautiful laughter in his ears, he is willing to do anything.

Words of affirmation were more challenging for him.

He grew up with the mindset that honesty is a vulnerability.

And he would never want to lie to you.

He began with statements (that wasn't even a compliment lol but he tried)

"Your shoes are navy." "You got an Outstanding for that Potion's essay." "Your hair changes colour in the sunlight."

When he couldn't bring himself to say he liked the colours of your shoes and hair, or that he was impressed by your grades.

Little by little, he braved himself.

"I like your hairstyle." "You should be proud of yourself for that charmwork."

He's still working on it.

But, you're noticing he's grown comfortable with showing unvoiced compliments

"Did you change your perfume?"

As he pulls you onto his lap at the breakfast table.

You tell him you got a new one at Hogsmeade, noticing how he buried his face into your neck.

When you tell him you need to get to class,

His grip around your waist only tightens,

"Five more minutes,"

his voice muffled against your neck tickling you.

It won't be long before he can voice what he feels - what he's always felt.

-----

At one point, Tom began calling you 'his angel'

To him, you truly are the last grip he has on this world before he descends into chaos and unhinged rage

He is extremely protective of you.

You are his escapism, so he is determined to keep any darkness away from you.

That means keeping you safe, as well as keeping you away from any discussions of dark magic as well as some of his friends.

-----

Tom will regularly fight with your cat for your attention.

"No, you had her last night!"

As Tom glares at your cat.

Your cat knows how to annoy Tom as well.

Like, jumping onto your lap minutes before you leave for a date.

Tom will sulk in the corner but patiently wait until you are done petting him.

One day, you found him having a heart-to-heart with your cat.

"Look, I adore her. And I am not leaving her as much as you hate me. So we've got to find a way to work together."

"We both care for her, yes?"

Your cat meows, as if in agreement.

Tom shows a hint of endearment towards the cat at the possibility of their conflict coming to an end.

He approaches your cat for the first time, before he jumps back at a violent hiss.

"Merlin, I get it," he grumbled before moving to his usual corner of the room.

-----

People would find you two visiting Hogsmeade, regularly sampling the newest additions to the craft store.

Tom would stand back a bit in these stores.

Happy to learn different crafts if you were to teach him,

But he's more content to see you happy.

His eyes soften every time you smile up at him excitedly.

He would hold your hand in his coat/robe pocket

And walk with the proudest smile throughout the school and the village.

After all, how did such an unfortunate orphaned boy get to be with an embodiment of sunshine?

A/N: Oof. Sorry it got so long, you two were just so cute, I kept coming up with more to write. I hope you enjoyed it, and please lmk if there are any parts you want to be changed! (Whether it be your characterisation, or how you prefer Tom to act.)

[achillean-knight]

Happy (early) New Years!

My last upload for 2025!!! It's New Years Eve for me tomorrow so it's.... not too early in terms of my timezone PFFT

--v Alota text under cut if you wanna read it! v--

But yeah, gods, how did 2024 go by so slowly but so quickly? Admittedly, 2024 hasn't been kind on me, both physically and mentally. With the stress of my sister's pregnancy carrying until August, hopefully you can understand how stressful that time period had been on us TwT

Not only that, after he was born, the.... house has become a little bit of a pigsty, so that's not great on my mental health either 💀 I've also pushed my body way too hard this year with nearly drawing at my laptop for all year straight, rendering me bedridden at one point this year just because my body was in too much pain to move. Not great at all.

For the copius amounts of stress and anxiety I endured, I gotta say there were some fuckin' EXCELLENT moments!! I went to comic con for the first time in so long, and cosplayed Michael from FNAF, joining in with photos and overall celebrating FNAF's 10th anniversary at the con with so many others! AND MY BESTIE WAS THERE TOO! Cosplaying as the puppet >:D!

We also went to the aquarium for my birthday which was so bloody lovely. AND WE SAW PESTO, the GOAT that he is KEKEK

HUEHUEHUE I ALSO FINISHED FINAL FANTASY 5 TODAY!! MEANING I have accomplished completing Final Fantasy's 4, 5 & 6 aswell as other games such as Night in the Woods, Undertale, Undertale Yellow, Deltarune and TLOZ: Echoes of Wisdom >:3

I also cannot underestimate how welcoming the Undertale and Deltarune community was to me aswell. I made so many friends and mutuals through it, I literally cannot express how much that meant to me ;w; AND AND THE METTATON COMMUNITY, YOU GUYS RULE!!!!!! ✨✨✨✨✨ This was the first time in so long I felt I belonged. So, thank you :'> I look forward to Mettaton May 2025 >:))))))

ALSO Cannot forget one last thing.... ART FIGHT. My best year yet HUEHUEHUE I loved attacking so many characters this year, and yes, I SURPASSED MY HIGHEST SCORE! I plan to go further beyond in 2025, buttttt I also won't put pressure on myself to actually achieve it.

For as mixed as 2024 has been, I learnt for myself what my new year's resolution will be for 2025. No, I won't put pressure on myself a 50 billionth year in a row telling myself to practice backgrounds LMAO

No, my New Years Resolution Is to be kind on myself. 2015 was my favourite year ever, and even if 2025 doesn't end up being as good as 2015, I wont wallow in that. But I want to make it as special as I could possibly be able to achieve. Especially in preparation for 2026.

2026 is an uncertainty for us. Our lease ends in 2026, and around Christmas is when we learn if we get another year or we're booted. If you didn't know, Australia is going through an intense housing crisis, so I genuinely fear what will happen when that day comes.

But, for now and in the present, I'm going to try and make 2025 special for myself. I want to do so much, and ESPECIALLY go to Comic Con again as Noir Mettaton PFFT But yeah. Lets hope, knock on wood, that 2025 is a good year. Better than this year atleast OIUGGGJH

[aid-worker-sya]

the more i think about my opinion the more i feel like, man. i liked SOTO... i liked Pre-Nayos SOTO at least. i find the Wizard's Court interesting. i find the new characters interesting and now just... it's over. soon we'll probably have new hub that probably takes up fucking another one of my shared inventory slots (anet container for all the scrolls WHEN) and new characters and a new plot. and the more i think about the more i feel like... we're ending right as it began.

i want to like these new characters more. they were fun for the brief time i got to see them and talk to them and see their side stories flesh out. hell even maybe see the main gang meet Dragon's Watch!!!

like i keep imagining, idk. the finale of Midnight King is more or less Eparch literally consuming all of Nayos (for gameplay reasons we can still play it's just treated as "before" the final story step) as Eparch seeks to obtain god-like power further in the Mists. maybe there's a refugee crisis with the kryptis loyal to Peitha who now need a new homeland: let's say Cascade Woods. Peitha also is now somewhat lost and directionless in the face of what is unconditionally an overwhelming defeat for her and is no longer certain she can be a worthy King for her people. the Wizard Court being forced to reveal itself to Tyria at last as Eparch's threat now becomes world-destroying. and then after a period of 2-3 years irl, the final climactic battle with Eparch to end the Wizard/Demon/Kryptis Saga once and for all to prepare for the next great adventure. a new Saga taking a few years.

but it began and ended.... and it's just over now. and i can't stop thinking almost every issue i have with SOTO could've been resolved with "i wish it had more time. i wish we could think about this for another two years and see it develop." but it's just. it's over. and the dialogue in the Tower even seems to be pretty final. like, i have NO doubt we'll see these characters again, but for now it's just... over.

so i'm genuinely curious. does anyone else feel the same? does anyone else feel like Secrets of the Obscure should have been the first installment of a new Saga, a trilogy or duology of expansions with a more streamlined focus by keeping the same writing team so the plot doesn't change multiple times before moving onto the next? or was it fine by itself?

i'm genuinely curious! and i'd love to hear your reasonings too!

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - Bachelor/Clavell/Wan

A little Surprise

While Xander and Pauline are mentally preparing to raise a child together soon, classes have just finished at school and most of the children are heading home. Only Peter, Michael and his sister have stayed to do their homework.

“Bye, Bella, see you tomorrow"/ ‘o.k….’. Mortimer was in a hurry to get home. Because he had planned a competition with Stiles the day before: who could build the most snowmen in the front garden. He had been looking forward to it all morning and could hardly wait for lessons to finish.

“I think I saw Dr. Wolff going to our house this morning"/ ‘what do you think she wanted?’/ ‘Well, I suppose to make a house call’/ ‘maybe about the baby?’/ ‘It's possible…’/ ‘Oh, the little girl must be fine’/ ”the little girl? How do you know it's a girl?"/ ‘uh… I, I don't know, I just think it is’/ ‘hnhn, well well’.

“Pauline doesn't have a bed for the baby yet. I've been thinking the whole time whether we could maybe build one for her"/ ‘Yes, that's a great idea…I'm sure she'd love it’/ ”OK, let's get everything together for it after school. We're sure to have some fabric and wood left at home”

“and I still have some old toys that I no longer need. She'll get that too“/”yes, great. She's always been there for us over the last few months, now we should return the favor“/”do you think the baby might come at Christmas?“/”hm, maybe, but maybe later“/”hmm…”.

Bella had been thinking for days about what Christmas would be like this year. But she wasn't the only one with these thoughts, many others were too. There probably won't be a big Christmas tree or presents this year. So much has been missing since the catastrophe and the death of her parents. But maybe at some point you learn to appreciate other things instead of just material things.

Later. It was already evening when the children came home. And they quickly noticed that the mood in the house was different than usual. “Hello kids, ready for a winter salad a la Xander?"/ ‘You've made this before, what's different about it now?’/ ‘hmm, good question, it's actually the same as what I've put in before’/ ‘hnhn… What did Dr. Wolf want here this morning?’.

“She just wanted to check up on me again and there were still a few things to sort out. Now we can relax and look ahead"/ Michael had a hunch what her statement might be about. Because sometimes, when the adults were talking, he would secretly stand around the corner and listen…. But he didn't let his knowledge show… “o.k…. Sounds good… How much longer will it take to eat?"/ ‘A little longer…’/ ‘Good, then please don't come upstairs, it could get louder’.

Peter helped Michael and his sister carry some materials upstairs to the bedroom. Afterwards, Xander and Pauline heard the loud banging of a hammer and a few other noises that could be associated with manual work. “What are they doing?"/ ‘I don't know, but hopefully not breaking everything’.

After about half an hour, the children came back downstairs. Peter didn't stay for dinner this time, he had to help with some things at home that evening. “What have you been doing up there all this time?"/ ”You'll see when you go to bed later. Just a little surprise"/ ‘a surprise?’.

“Yes, for you two and the baby. But I won't say any more”. Xander looked at her, still a little puzzled, as he had no idea what she meant. “aha, I can't wait to see it/ “when's the baby coming then?”. Pauline looked at her and smiled. Bella seemed to be really looking forward to the little new addition to the house. “It'll take a while, sweetie, but you can tell her a few stories and she'll get used to your voice"/ ‘I'll do that, yes’.

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When Xander and Pauline came into the bedroom later, it was indeed a surprise for them. But certainly not a small one. “My God, look at this…”. She slowly pointed her finger at the crib. “I always underestimate the kids, they're more capable than I am,” Xander said, stroking his own head a little sheepishly. “That's so sweet of them.”. Pauline was very touched, she hadn't expected anything like this.

“I think we'll have to say thank you tomorrow. “/ “Mhm. The only question now is how things should continue here in the future. It's not a good environment here for a new generation.” Xander had also been thinking for some time about how the new children would grow up here. “That's true… I really hope we get help soon. The supplies won't last forever…”. After looking at the crib for a moment, the two of them went to bed. It had been quite an exciting day.

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@greenplumbboblover

[pooks]

in my expanded Hogwarts Mystery fics, there is one theme that i particularly love to write about and it's the fond relationship between Cassidy and Percy

by the time Percy comes to Hogwarts, he keeps hearing great stories about Cassidy Mercury who protects the school from the dangerous Cursed Vaults. also she's one of the best students in her age, good friends with his two older brothers and later, she becomes a prefect.

so naturally he looks up to her.

but Cassidy wins his loyalty on one thing and that is because she saved him from Rakepick in Year 5 and 6. you read that right, Cassidy saved his life twice.

at this point, she has become like a big sister figure for him. she doesn't brush him off because he's younger, but she sits down and listens to him. she pays attention to him. she respects his opinions and doesn't make fun of him.

for example, when they first met in Year 5;

Percy: We haven't been properly introduced...I'm Percy Weasley, future Gryffindor Prefect, Head Boy and eventual Minister of Magic. Cassidy: Sounds like you have your entire life planned out. :)

we know that the Weasley siblings would poke fun at Percy for saying that, but Cassidy doesn't and respects his ambitions. she has treated him like an equal since day 1 and that's why she won Percy from the beginning.

in-game, they have gone even on adventures with Percy. like when the twins disappeared in Year 6 and we're looking for them with Percy who is, understandably really worried (caused there is a dangerous Cursed Vault at the works!) and even ventures into the Forbidden Forest with Cassidy.

and in the sidequest where there is a party in the Borrow while the parents are away on business, Percy choses to lie (it's a white lie to spare Charlie and the others from trouble) when their mum asks them if there were any trouble.

Percy: It's true! I even organized your sock drawer! (when Molly asked if it was true everyone did chores and did not do anything suspicious)

also when finding out that dark artefacts were moved to the Ministry, Cassidy goes to find Percy (and Tulip, but she isn't really fond of talking about the Ministry). the minute Cassidy asked for Percy's expertise, this is the first time we see him so openly happy and excited.

Cassidy Mercury (the MC): Tulip, Percy. I need you to tell me everything you know about the Ministry of Magic headquarters. Percy (excitedly): Merlin's bread, where do I begin?!

clearly, Cassidy trusts his judgement and knowledge more than well enough to ask him about his input and Percy becomes to happy about being important enough to be asked for his expertise. that is really heartwarming.

not to mention in that same scene, Percy agrees to help Cassidy break into the fucking Ministry because she helped him finding Fred and George.

and in my stories, Rakepick actively manipulates and endanger Percy because of his Seer abilities (yes, Percy has strong Seer powers in my fanfics, but he's not strong enough for a full prophecy). he has a bigger role in my HM stories since Rakepick is more villainous and she ends up using Percy as a leverage to get to Bill, Charlie and Cassidy.

the section below is spoilers for year 6 in my HPHM fanfiction

[in one of my fanfic stories (during Year 6), Rakepick takes him as hostage to the Forbidden Forest. Percy had, by this point, become used as a tool to "predict" the future of Rakepick and the Cursed Vaults. his Seer power (which Percy has named as "foresight") isn't strong enough for a full prophecy and Rakepick decides to use him as a bait for the Cursed Vaults.

back at the castle when the gang is preparing to infiltrate the meeting Rakepick is having with 'R' in the forest, they find out from Oliver Wood that Percy has gone missing and his "rat" is acting weird as in full panic. Cassidy then realizes that there is a connection between Percy's terrified behavior for the past months and quickly deductes that Rakepick has him.]

Cassidy saved Percy's life twice and she has promised him that no matter what happens to her or in the future, she will always return to save him. so his feelings about Cassidy is nothing but pure love and loyalty, like how a younger brother sees his big sister. with Cassidy in the picture, Percy is no longer the odd one out in his family (where everyone are paired with someone except him).

in my Wizard Archivist series, the theme of their friendship is especially in focus because Cassidy is, since before the HP book events starts, locked in a hellscape world beyond the real Cursed Vault and Percy struggles to re-open that vault to bring her home with risk for his own life. '

conclusion? Percy genuinely loves Cassidy, as if it was his big sister and she has always been there for him, wheather it's saving his life or just listening to him rambling. it's an innocent and pure love. Cassidy, who is the younger sister to Jacob and has no younger siblings, adores him in the same way.

in a way, Cassidy became a substitiute when Bill and Charlie were too busy with their lives and a source of unconditional love for Percy.

and the kicker is when Cassidy came to save him the first time, she had just smiled and told him that everything would be alright because she was there now.

thanks for coming to my TED talk about Percy and his inofficial "big sis" role model Cassidy Mercury

[brieflyannoyingandfunny]

Chapter 2: Wendigo

Here are some tidbits that didn't fit into the first chapter.

Connie, as in constance like the ghost chick we just ganked. or. Are you seriously telling me a chick named Constance is this hot! c'mon.

There was nothing around them but miles and miles of woods, and Connie loved it. She loved how connected to nature it made her feel and it gave her an excuse to look out the window and ignore Dean Winchester’s stares.

“So why are you coming with us again?” Great, now that Sam was finally sleeping, he had to interrogate her. The whole week they had stayed in Palo Alto was spent in her house, which she had offered after Sam became adamant in staying to look for clues. Connie and Sam also spent their week putting their affairs in order to leave. Her going to them was a really contentious point and she had argued endlessly for it, Sam did not really have the energy for it and Dean was still arguing with her about it.

She turned her head towards him and flipped through her grimoire. “I told you that something is telling me to.” She was being rude and she knew it, but she was tired of having to explain this.

“And you expect me to believe this.” He was also being rude to her back, so it wasn’t like he would mind.

“Yes,” she snapped her book shut. And the sound seemed to wake up Sam. The brothers had a non-conversation about Sam’s nightmares in which Connie stayed eerily still for, even if she did want to say that she would love to drive the car. And when they moved on, she relaxed, but remained silent for the rest of the drive.

When they arrived at the Ranger’s Station Sam and Connie were looking at a 3D map of the national forest, paying particular attention to the ridge labeled "BLACKWATER RIDGE". Connie could only wonder why the coordinates that the Winchester’s dad had left them led to a place so remote and cut-off. She turned around to say this to Sam and found him looking at a picture with his brother, with their backs turned to her. It was no surprise they were startled when the ranger walked in and spoke.

“You folks aren't planning on going out near Blackwater Ridge by any chance?”

The boys turned around and Sam casually said, “Oh, no, sir, we're environmental study majors from UC Boulder, just working on a paper.” Connie was impressed at how fast and easy the lie had come to him.

“We were wondering if you could show us… uh” Connie was so not good at lying this fast, she normally had the time and energy to prepare the lies and get into character. And it seemed that the ranger had caught on to the fact that they were lying.

“Bull,” was quickly spat out by the ranger as soon as she had stumbled.

“You're friends with that Haley girl, right?” That gave them an excuse so good that Dean took it immediately.

“Yes. Yes, we are, Ranger…” Dean quickly checked the ranger’s nametag, “...Wilkinson.”

“Well I will tell you exactly what we told her. Her brother filled out a backcountry permit saying he wouldn't be back from Blackwater until the twenty-fourth,” Dean nodded, “so it's not exactly a missing persons now, is it?” 

Ranger Wilkinson wasn’t quite finished yet though. “You tell that girl to quit worrying, I'm sure her brother's just fine.”

“We will," Connie stated, starting to head out. For some reason, Dean asked if he could have a copy of the backcountry permit to show Haley, which Connie found weird, but who was she to judge, she had done stranger things.

Connie was waiting by the car, leaning against it, when the brothers reached her, arguing.

“… I mean, why even talk to this girl?” Sam whined.

“I don't know, maybe we should know what we're walking into before we actually walk into it?” After Dean said it, there was an awkward pause, and the older brother questioned Sam about his change in attitude. There was a brief discussion inside the car where they decided that they would pose as park rangers to talk to Haley. Connie’s long flowy skirt and assorted jewellery marked decidedly as not a park ranger.

“Wait, I gotta change.” Connie piped up from the back seat.

“What?” Dean was confused.

“If we're going to pretend to be park rangers, I gotta change. One sec.”Connie took off her shoes and grabbed a pair of pants and a different shirt from her bag. The brothers looked at each other. She then shimmied on the pants without taking off her skirt, and then put on the shirt without taking the other one off. She then took off her skirt and shirt without a word. She noticed the silence and glanced up at the brothers.

“What? You've never seen a girl change clothes?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Not like that, that was freaky,” Dean said.

“You have not been around enough women. Whatever, let’s get going,” and with that they were off to Haleys' house.

After Haley’s house where they found out that Haley was going to head out into the woods in search of her brother Tommy with a guide, Sam headed to the library to do some research and Connie trailed after him. To Connie, it seemed that Sam seemed exactly where to look to get all of the information, it was a bit uncanny, still she did everything she could to help him out.

Together they found that Tommy’s group was not the first to go missing that year, and that there had been many more before them. There was a cycle to these disappearances, they happened exactly every 23 years without a fault, and there was a survivor of one of the earlier attacks. Sam also showed her the mysterious shadow that appeared in the video that Haley had forwarded him. Slowing the video down, to show that the creature had sped by the screen in 3 frames. 

There was a lull in the research, where both Sam and Connie were silently doing their own thing. Connie decided that it was now or never.

"Hey Sam," she started, softly, "I know you don’t want to talk about it, and we totally don't have to," she said all this racing through her words. "But I can help you with your nightmares." She said that last part with confidence.

Sam was silent, weighing her words, and after a few moments he let out, "Yeah?"

"Yeah," Connie answers softly,"I made you this." She pulls out a small flat metal object, the size of a quarter. It had various runes and symbols hand-carved into it that Sam would look at in detail later. At that moment, he could only give a small thanks in return. Connie said not to mention it, and they went back into research.

Later on that day, they showed Dean what they had found at a local bar and decided to go to the place of the survivor of the ‘59 attack. The man, Mr. Shaw, who was nothing but a boy at the time of the attack, received them reluctantly with long lines in his face and a cigarette in his mouth. He started talking with his back turned to them. “Look, ranger, I don't know why you're asking me about this. It's public record. I was a kid. My parents got mauled by a—”

“Grizzly?” Sam interrupted, “That's what attacked them?” Shaw nodded silently, smoking his cigarette. “The other people that went missing that year, those bear attacks too?” Sam queried. A pause. Shaw looked askance.

Now it was Dean's turn. ‘'What about all the people that went missing this year? Same thing?” Another pregnant pause. “If we knew what we were dealing with, we might be able to stop it.” Dean gestured to himself and his brother.

“I seriously doubt that.” Shaw scoffed and went to sit down. “Anyways, I don't see what difference it would make.You wouldn't believe me,” Shaw picked up a hard drink, “nobody ever did.”

Connie approached Shaw meekly, and sat down close enough to reach him. Putting one of her hands on his closest arm, in a supportive gesture, she asked him, “Mr. Shaw, please tell us, what did you see?”

In the few seconds that Shaw paused to consider his thoughts, Connie picked up what Shaw felt, saw, and heard the night of the attack. She got the insurmountable amount of pain and fear that he had felt, but also the sense of disbelief that he still carried to this day. As soon as she processed all of this, Shaw began to speak.

“Nothing,” the man was trembling, “it moved too fast to see. It hid too well. I heard it, though.” Shaw had a thousand yard stare. “A roar. Like...no man or animal I ever heard.”

It came at night time?” Connie gently posed, and Shaw nodded. “Got inside your tent?” Sam continued, and Shaw frowned at this.

“It got inside our cabin. I was sleeping in front of the fireplace when it came in. It didn't smash a window or break the door. It unlocked it. ‘“ the brothers shared a quick glance with one another."Do you know of a bear that could do something like that? I didn't even wake up till I heard my parents screaming.” Connie felt the pain that he felt at the loss in her soul. “It killed them?”

“Dragged them off into the night.” Shaw shook his head in confusion. “Why it left me alive...been asking myself that ever since.”

Connie holds Shaw's hand tighter, never having completely moved away. Shaw freed his hand from Connie's grasp and accompanied his other one to his collar.

“Did leave me this, though.”

Shaw opened his collar to reveal three long scars. Claw marks. The trio looked at them, Connie was quick to avert her gaze.

“There's something evil in those woods. It was some sort of a demon.” Connie silently agreed with the first, although with what she had experienced from Shaw's head she knew that it was no demon.

Connie, Sam, and Dean stepped outside of Shaw's apartment and started making their way to the stairs, talking as they passed through multiple closed doors. Sam and Dean walk side by side, and Connie one step behind them, trailing after their long footsteps. “Spirits and demons don't have to unlock doors,” Dean started. “If they want inside, they just go through the walls.”

From behind him, Connie spoke up, “And from what I saw from Shaw's memories it was something more physical, more…”

“Corporeal,” Sam finished for her.

“Corporeal? Excuse me, professor.” Dean said mockingly.

“Shut up,” Sam sputtered.

“Wait, you can look inside people's heads?" This was aimed directly towards Connie.

“Yes. Moving on. What do you think it is?” Now was not the time to discuss what her abilities were.

“The claws, the speed that it moves...could be a skinwalker, maybe a black dog. Whatever we're talking about, we're talking about a creature, and it's corporeal. Which means we can kill it.”

When they arrived at the motel they were spending the night in, Connie went to secure the room, or more hopefully rooms. and the Winchesters stayed behind by the car, getting their bags. After getting the clothes bags out of the way, Dean opened the false bottom into the weapons box, and props it open with a shotgun. He put some guns in a duffel bag. Sam leant in to help and said, "We cannot let that Haley girl go out there."

“Oh yeah? What are we gonna tell her? That she can't go into the woods because of a big scary monster?”

"Yeah." Sam spat out. Dean stopped checking one of the guns to look at him. "Her brother's missing, Sam. She's not gonna just sit this out. Now we go with her, we protect her, and we keep our eyes peeled for our fuzzy predator friend." Dean closed the duffel and picked it up. "Finding Dad's not enough?" Sam huffed, slamming down the weapons box and then the trunk."Now we gotta babysit another girl too?" Dean gave Sam a stare that felt like steel. "What?" "Nothing." Dean threw the duffel bag at Sam and started walking off in the direction of the motel. Sam stood there, watching.

The next day, they pulled up to the forest and encountered Haley, her guide Roy, and her little brother Ben. After making arrangements to go into the forest together, Haley noticed that no one in the trio was dressed appropriately, commenting on Dean's biker boots and jeans, and Connie's long nails and jewellery. After a brief dick measuring contest with Roy, they headed out.

As they were hiking through the forest, Roy was in the lead, closely followed by Dean, then Haley, Ben, and Sam and Connie bringing up the rear. Roy and Dean were too far ahead of Connie to hear what they were saying, but she could imagine the sort of talk they were engaged in. 

When suddenly, Roy grabbed Dean, stopping him from moving forward. He then grabbed a stick and stuck it in the ground. Wham! Dean had almost stepped on a bear trap.

“We are so busted.” Connie whispered to Sam after they passed by Dean and an annoyed Haley who started questioning Dean, pointing out the discrepancies in their story and asking who they were.

“Sam and I are brothers, Connie is Sammy's friend, and we're looking for our father.” Dean explained. “He might be here, we don't know. I just figured that you and me, we're in the same boat.”

“Why didn't you just tell me that from the start?”

“I'm telling you now. 'sides, it's probably the most honest I've ever been with a woman. ...ever. So we okay?” There was a pause where Haley weighed his words.

“Yeah, okay.” She finally said.

They started walking towards where the others had gone.

“And what do you mean I didn't pack provisions?” Dean obnoxiously pulled out a big bag of peanut M&Ms and stuck his hand in the bag as he hiked on. Haley waited for a moment, then followed after him.

They had finally reached Tommy's camping site. The tents were shredded open and bloody. Roy assured them that it had been a grizzly. Haley took off her backpack rummaging through the campsite and started calling for her brother but Sam shushed her, telling her that something might still be around. When suddenly Dean calls for his brother.

Dean had found tracks where the bodies had been dragged from the campsite. They led nowhere, they just vanished. With this information the boys determined that it was not a skinwalker or black dog. They went back to the others and Dean comforted Haley, telling her that Tommy might still be alive. Abruptly they started hearing a male voice calling for help. All of the group went searching, but there was nobody around. And when they returned to the campsite, all of their supplies were missing.

“What the hell is going on?” Haley asked.

“It’s smart,” Sam explained, “it wants to cut us off so we can’t call for help.”

Roy scoffed. “You mean someone, some nutjob out there just stole all our gear.”

A realisation hit Sam and he grabbed Dean to have a private chat, Connie stared after them. Sam asked for their father’s journal where he had written everything he knew about monsters and flipped through it. He pointed to the Wendigo entry.

“Oh come on,” Dean said, “Wendigos are in the Minnesota woods or, or northern Michigan. I've never even heard of one this far west.”

“Think about it, Dean, the claws, the way it can mimic a human voice.”

Dean considered it for a second. “Great.” He took out his pistol and gestured with it. “Well then this is useless.”

Sam gave back the journal to Dean and told him that they needed to get those people to safety.

Back at the campsite, Sam addressed the group.

“All right, listen up, it's time to go. Things have gotten...more complicated.”

“Kid, don't worry. Whatever's out there, I think I can handle it.” Roy said, cockily.

“It's not me I'm worried about.” Sam said. “If you shoot this thing, you're just gonna make it mad. We have to leave. Now.” He insisted.

“One, you're talking nonsense.” Roy got right in Sam’s face. “Two, you're in no position to give anybody orders.”

“Relax.” Dean pleaded.

“We never should have let you come out here in the first place, all right? I'm trying to protect you.”

“You protect me?” Roy scoffed. “I was hunting these woods when your mommy was still kissing you good night.”

“Yeah? It's a damn near perfect hunter. It's smarter than you, and it's gonna hunt you down and eat you alive unless we get your stupid sorry ass out of here.”

Roy barked out a laugh incredulously. 

“You know you're crazy, right?” Roy mocked.

“Yeah? You ever hunt a wen—” Dean pushed Sam, interrupting him, and told him to chill out.

“Stop. Stop it. Everybody just stop.” Haley pleaded. “Look. Tommy might still be alive. And I'm not leaving here without him.” A long pause followed Haley’s declaration.

“It's getting late. This thing is a good hunter in the day, but an unbelievable hunter at night. We'll never beat it, not in the dark. We need to settle in and protect ourselves.” Dean finally said.

“How?”

By the time the sun went down, the group had built a campfire, and Dean started drawing something in the dirt around the campsite while Haley poked at the fire. She looked at him and asked what the symbols were.

“They're Anasazi symbols, for protection.” Connie answered from where she was also observing Dean next to Haley. He gave her a once over.

“The wendigo can't cross over them.” He added, at that Roy barked out a cocky laugh.

“Nobody likes a skeptic, Roy.” Dean commented and headed out to sit next to Sam, at the edge of the campfire.

“You wanna tell me what's going on in that freaky head of yours?” Dean asked. Sam immediately tried to say that he was fine, but his older brother was having none of it.

“No, you're not fine. You're like a powder keg, man, it's not like you. I'm supposed to be the belligerent one, remember?” There was a long pause.

“Dad's not here,” Sam said angrily, “I mean, that much we know for sure, right? He would have left us a message, a sign, right?” He almost pleaded.

“Yeah, you're probably right.” Dean conceded. “Tell you the truth, I don't think Dad's ever been to Lost Creek.”

“Then let's get these people back to town and let's hit the road. Go find Dad. I mean, why are we still even here?”

“This is why.” Dean came around to Sam's front and took out their father's journal.”This book.” He gestured to it. “This is Dad's single most valuable possession—everything he knows about every evil thing is in here. And he's passed it on to us. I think he wants us to pick up where he left off. You know, saving people, hunting things. The family business.”

Sam shook his head in distress. “That makes no sense. Why doesn't he just—call us? Why doesn't he—tell us what he wants, tell us where he is?” 

“I dunno. But the way I see it, Dad's giving us a job to do, and I intend to do it.” Dean affirmed.

“Dean...no.” He shook his head. “I gotta find Dad. I gotta find Jessica's killer. It's the only thing I can think about.”

“Okay, all right, Sam, we'll find them, I promise. Listen to me. You've gotta prepare yourself. I mean, this search could take a while, and all that anger, you can't keep it burning over the long haul. It's gonna kill you. You gotta have patience, man.”

Sam looked down, then up.

“How do you do it? How does Dad do it?”

Dean turned to look at Haley and Ben, who were being distracted by Connie as she was telling them a story that drew small wary smiles from them.

“Well for one, them.”

Sam looked over at the group by the campfire, Connie was now holding both Haley and Ben's hands and finished saying something that managed to startle a small giggle out of Haley.

“I mean, I figure our family's so screwed to hell, maybe we can help some others. Makes things a little bit more bearable.” Dean then paused. “I'll tell you what else helps.” Sam looked at his older brother.”Killing as many evil sons of bitches as I possibly can.”

Sam finally smiled. A twig snapped loudly, and they started hearing calls for help once again. The brothers ran back to the others. Dean readied his gun and Sam shined his flashlight about.

“He's trying to draw us out. Just stay cool, stay put.” Dean ordered.

“Inside the magic circle?” Roy side eyed dean.

The wendigo once again called out for help and then it started growling. Roy admitted that it wasn't a grizzly and pointed his gun at the sound. Something rushed past them and Haley let out a shriek. 

“It's here.” Sam said.

Roy shot at the rustling, then again. After realising that he had hit it, Roy went to see what it was despite Sam and Dean warming him not to. Sam and Dean ran after Roy, and Connie stayed behind with Haley and Ben.

“It's over here! It's in the tree!” Roy said. Roy had disappeared.

The next day, after spending an unrestful night, Sam and Connie were quietly chatting close to the tree line, Haley, Ben and Dean were among the tents.

“How did you guys get into hunting anyways?" asked Connie.

“It runs in the family” responded Sam. “What about you? How did you get into witchcraft?”

“It also runs in the family,” admitted Connie with a small grin,”although I'm a born witch.”

“Born?”

“Yeah, there's three types of witches. Those born into the powers, those who study and well, those that make deals with devils.” Explained Connie.

“All these years hunting… you'd think I'd know that.”

“It's a trade secret,” said Connie. “And don't tell any witch this, but my coven and I don't really like the ones who make deals. We find it distasteful and the selling your soul is so not worthy.”

“Coven?” Sam asked after a moment considering her words.

“Yeah, my mom, aunt, grandma and I are part of one. I miss them a lot.” 

“How come you aren't with them.”

“I got a feeling that I should move to California when I was choosing colleges.”

“The same one that made you come with us?”

Connie considered telling Sam that she had felt drawn to him the moment that she had met him. But decided otherwise, so she simply said,"Yeah.”

The silence that followed was not uncomfortable, but since their conversation was pretty much over, with a tilt of his head in the direction of the others, Sam and Connie headed towards them.

“Hey.” Sam said as they reached them. “So we've got half a chance in the daylight. And I for one want to kill this evil son of a bitch.”

“Well, hell, you know I'm in,” said Dean emphatically.

Sam then showed the wendigo page of John's journal to Haley, Ben and Connie.

“'Wendigo' is a Cree Indian word. It means 'evil that devours'.” He explained.

Dean continued, “They're hundreds of years old. Each one was once a man. Sometimes an Indian, or other times a frontiersman or a miner or hunter.”

“How's a man turn into one of those things?” asked Haley.

“I know this," said Connie. “It happens when someone in a harsh winter becomes desperate and consumes a member of their tribe or camp.” The brothers nodded.

“Like the Donner Party.” commented Ben.

“Cultures all over the world believe that eating human flesh gives a person certain abilities. Speed, strength, immortality.” Sam continued with the explanation.

“If you eat enough of it, over years, you become this less than human thing. You're always hungry.” said Dean.

“So if that's true, how can Tommy still be alive?” Queried Haley.

“You're not gonna like it.” Replied dean, sharing a knowing glance with Sam.

“Tell me.” Demanded Haley.

“More than anything, a wendigo knows how to last long winters without food. It hibernates for years at a time, but when it's awake it keeps its victims alive. It," Dean hesitated at this part, “uh, it stores them, so it can feed whenever it wants. If your brother's alive, it's keeping him somewhere dark, hidden, and safe. We gotta track it back there.” 

“And then how do we stop it?” asked Haley.

“Well, guns are useless, so are knives.” Dean said. “Basically…” he held up a can of lighter fluid, a beer bottle, and a piece of a white cloth he had picked up from the campsite.”We gotta torch the sucker.”

Later that same day, Dean led them through the woods, ready with a molotov cocktail in his hand, Haley was behind him, followed by Ben, Connie and finally Sam. They passed through trees marked with claws and blood.

Sam caught up to Dean and said, “You know, I was thinking, those claw prints, so clear and distinct. They were almost too easy to follow.” Suddenly they heard growling, Sam and Dean whipped around and they all heard the sound of rustling trees.

Haley was standing underneath a tree, and blood started dripping on her shirt. When she noticed, she looked up, then leapt out of the way of Roy's corpse that fell right where she had been standing. Dean examined his body and concluded that his neck had been broken. They heard more growling and started running away from the wendigo.

Ben tripped on a root and Connie tripped on him, since she had been right behind him. Sam hurried back to help them up, dividing the group. Ahead of them, Dean and Haley were stopped short, the wendigo standing before them. Haley let out a scream.

The trio of younger siblings stopped running and they ran into Dean's broken molotov cocktail, evidence that Dean and Haley had been taken.

The trio kept walking for a while, when Ben interrupted the silence. “If it keeps its victims alive, why would it kill Roy?”

“Honestly? I think because Roy shot at it, pissed it off.” Sam simply said.

Ben then found a trail of peanut M&Ms and picked one up.

“They went this way.” Sam and Connie caught up to Ben, who handed the M&M to him. Sam let out a laugh.

”It's better than breadcrumbs,” said Sam.

“Since Dean is Hansel, does this make you Gretel?” teased Connie.

Sam, Connie and Ben followed the trail. They came to a mine entrance marked with signs that warned them of danger inside it.

Inside the mine, Sam led them with his flashlight, when they heard growling. Sam quickly turned his flashlight off and pushed the other two against the wall, putting his hand over Ben’s mouth so he wouldn’t scream. Connie had a death grip on his jacket. The wendigo came close to finding them but headed towards another tunnel at the last minute. They continued their exploration of the mine, the floorboards underneath their feet creaked and they fell through the floor, they fortunately fell from a small height into a pile of bones. Ben spotted a pile of skulls and leapt backwards at the sight. Connie was surprised at the amount but was not startled, since human bones were unfortunately a common spell component, so she had gotten used to the sight of them.

“Hey, it's okay, it's okay, it's okay.” Sam comforted Ben.

Sam and Ben looked up to see their siblings hanging by their wrists from the ceiling, Sam and Connie ran to Dean, and Ben to Haley. Sam grabbed Dean and shook him to wake him up. The older Winchester brother opened his eyes. Sam asked if he was okay and Dean groaned but said that he was fine. Sam cut Dean down and held him up with Connie's help, while Ben took care of Haley. They helped them over to an empty spot on the floor and got them to sit down.

After checking that they were alright, Connie looked up and spotted Tom, also hanging by his wrists. She let Haley know, who started crying and approached her brother. She touched his cheek, saying his name, which made his head jerk up. She frantically asked Sam to cut him down and he did.

Meanwhile, Dean and Connie were looking at the stolen supplies that were piled in the corner. Dean picked up flare guns.

“Check it out.” Dean called out to his brother.

“Flare guns. Those'll work.” Sam grinned.

Dean laughed and twirled the guns.

Soon, they headed down a tunnel. Sam and Dean in the lead with the flare guns, Connie right behind them, and Haley and Ben supporting Tom.

They were slowly heading to the way out when they heard growling.

“Looks like someone's home for supper.” Quipped dean.

“It’s too fast and we're in its home territory. We'll never outrun it.” Connie said.

Dean looked back at the others. “You thinking what I'm thinking?” He asked Sam.

“Yeah, I think so.”

“All right, listen to me. Stay with Sam. He's gonna get you out of here.”

“What are you gonna do?” Haley asked.

Dean winked and started walking and yelling. “Chow time, you freaky bastard! Yeah, that's right, bring it on, baby, I taste good.”

Sam waited until Dean was a safe distance away where his voice faded out and led the group down the tunnel.

They had been walking rapidly for a small while when they heard growling once again, the wendigo had found them. Sam pointed the gun at it and told the Collins siblings and Connie to get out of there. The Collinses did but Connie stayed.

“If you're staying I am too," she said. Sam briefly considered her words, but there was no time to argue. He nodded and readied his gun ready to shoot. They turned on a corridor and heard growling, they whipped around and the wendigo was right in their faces, Sam fired a shot and missed; the wendigo had dodged and gotten out of the way. Sam and Connie started running after the Collinses.They reached them before too long and hurried along the tunnel, the end of which they quickly reached, the wendigo hot on their trail.

“Get behind me.” Sam said. He was tall and broad enough that the Collinses and Connie were able to hide behind him. However, Connie had other plans, she had a spell that could at least slow it down. She stepped out from behind Sam, her normally blue eyes, glowing purple.

“Wait! I've got this! Manete!” Oh this was hard, she had never done it outside of stopping a ball or roughhousing with her cousins. And never without a hexbag. Connie’s hands were trembling and she could start to taste the blood that was coming out of her nose. Just when she was at the end of her strength, she sensed that Dean was coming up behind the wendigo, gave a sigh of relief, and slumped against Sam's warm arms.

“Hey!” Dean called the attention of the wendigo, who turned to look at him. Dean shot it in the stomach. The flare went off and the wendigo went up in flames.

“Not bad, huh?” Dean asked his brother and Sam grinned, still holding Connie.

They traversed the forest, back to the ranger's station, Haley and Ben still supporting Tom, and Sam holding Connie in his arms, since she was still unconscious. By the time they had reached the ranger's station she had woken up but was still groggy.

Dean and Haley were checked by the paramedics first. Then Connie who told them she had hit her head, but felt alright, just tired. The ambulance was loading Tom up to go to a hospital and Ben was being interviewed by the police, Sam behind him. Ben lied to them, telling them it was a giant grizzly. Haley thanked Dean with a kiss on the cheek and a wish for him and Sam to find their father. She, along with Ben, climbed up the ambulance to ride with Tom.

The Winchesters and Connie sat on the hood of the impala, watching the ambulance drive off.

“You alright princess,” asked Dean.

“Yeah,” there was a pause, “but what’s with the princess?” Connie raised an eyebrow.

“It’s because after that badass stunt you pulled you fainted and Sammy had to carry you like one.” Dean teased and Connie blushed, the red coming up to her ears, which were hidden behind her fair hair.

“Guys, I used to like camping, ” she said abruptly, rapidly changing the subject.

“I hate it," said Dean.

“Me too,” added Sam.

“Sam, you know we're gonna find Dad, right?” said Dean, after a short silence. “Yeah, I know. But in the meantime? I'm driving.” Sam said. Dean tossed Sam the keys. Sam and Dean got in the car, Connie a step behind them, they all slammed their doors almost in sync.

[flamboyantly-incompetent]

OoTP, Chapter 2 - Quidditch Tryouts

Draco Malfoy x Hufflepuff!Reader

Warnings: death mentions

Masterlist

Word Count: 2446

Note: Something that really bothered me about book/movie 5 was how the only people who seemed to be truly bothered by Cedric's death were Harry and Cho. I attempt to fix that.

In years past, the atmosphere of the Hufflepuff common room had been warm and lively. Ever since Cedric Diggory died, though, the weight of his absence was ever present. People sat by the fire, tended their favorite hanging plants, and studied at the great cherry wood tables in silence, eerily somber.

No sooner were you five steps in were you set upon by Zacharias Smith.

"Y/L/N!" he said, eyes lighting up at the sight of you. He had never reacted this way to your presence before. "You fly, right?"

You blinked. "Erm, kind of?"

"I'm Quidditch captain this year. We're holding tryouts on Thursday for Cedric's spot, and a ton of other people have left too." Everyone in the room paused what they were doing to stare at him.

Olive Sceptre, a fifth year with long red hair and freckles, said weakly, "We're just going to replace him?"

"We can't play without a Seeker," he snapped. "What am I supposed to do?"

No one spoke for what seemed a long time, the only noises being the crackling from the fireplace and the soft whoosh from the enchanted breeze. Finally, Ezra Roberts, a seventh year and one of Cedric's friends, broke the silence and said, "He loved Quidditch mate, it's not an insult. We'll be there."

Zacharias turned his gaze back to you, and you nodded stiffly. His shoulders relaxed and he nodded back, then returned to his spot at a table.

A number of first years looked around at each other in confusion. It was unfortunate, really - the rest of their year had been welcomed into their houses with some semblance of normalcy, but for Hufflepuff, they'd unwittingly inherited a grief they had no rights to. You shook your head in a daze and retreated back into the hallway. The smell of dinner had already begun to emanate from the kitchens.

"Y/N!" a voice called from behind you. It was Herbert, followed closely by Yvette and Donna - your best friends since they'd saved you from a Peeves episode in second year. "Did Zacharias find you? He asked a few other people at breakfast. I know we have to, y'know, to play but it just seems-"

Yvette pulled all of you around, and interrupted, "We were just about to head to dinner but wanted to find you first. So let's go." You followed obediently.

"D'ya hear Sprout's got an aquaponics?"

"I was just there - it's pretty impressive. She's growing snake venom plants over leaping koi. Said Advanced Herbology students might be able to try something similar next year."

Donna grinned. "I expect a full report, we'll be the most prepared once we get there. We've just got into Bubotubers, and I can already tell it's going to be disgusting."

With the promise of something delicious and filling, you never thought to mention that you'd offered to tutor a Slytherin a full year ahead of you. Instead the conversation made laps around Herbology, Quidditch tryouts, and the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, and her sycophantic dedication to the textbook.

"I've heard some Ravenclaws talking about it," Donna said between bites of stew. "They seem to think her qualifications begin and end with her involvement at the Ministry. Which isn't nothing, but still. And 'High Inquisitor' has never been a thing 'til now."

"I miss Hagrid," Yvette said despondently, "Grubbly-Plank seems nice but her lesson plans are so," she paused to poke around on her plate with a fork, "well, boring."

Herbert snorted, "Not any more boring than flobber worms."

You looked up to chime in, and made completely accidental eye contact with Draco Malfoy from across the room. He looked incredibly smug, but looked away from you very quickly before you had a chance to wave. Disappointing, but not surprising. You'd expected him to be an ass.

"I'm not sure anything will top those unicorn colts from last year," you said, turning your attention back to the conversation at hand. "And he always offered me tea whenever I stopped by to ask questions."

Just then, over Donna's shoulder, a Gryffindor seventh year stomped down an aisle shouting, "Oy!" Donna and Herbert turned around subtly to observe whatever drama promised to ensue.

A disheveled and tired looking Harry Potter froze in the doorway. You'd only ever spoken one word to him - a quiet 'sorry' for stamping on his foot accidentally during a Herbology lesson in your second year - but it was hard not to recognize him. Especially after last term. Harry Potter, the boy who lived and apparently kept living, clutching Cedric's dead body, screaming about You-Know-Who was not a sight you'd soon forget. You shivered. Cedric had often been the life of the common room and, though you hadn't known him well either, you often found yourself wishing he was still around to crack jokes and hand out sugar quills to first years.

"So," Herbert said darkly, turning back around, "wha'd'ya reckon?"

Donna bit into an apple tart, eyebrow raised. Yvette replied, "About what?"

Herbert rolled his eyes. "About Cedric. About You-Know-Who being back. Nothing happened over the summer. When we all went home I expected to be in some kind of martial law. Daily Prophet says Potter's barking. Dumbledore too."

Donna scoffed, "Daily Prophet also said Harry was twelve and in love with Hermione Granger, and it's so, painfully obvious he's got the hots for Cho Chang."

You nodded. "True."

"So do you think." Yvette whispered, "they were maybe fighting over her and it got out of hand?"

"No," you said quickly, "not at all. I doubt, well I don't know him so I don't know, but I doubt he'd've done that." Donna shook her head too.

Herbert crossed his arms. "Well maybe it was just a trick of the maze. Like a boggart or something. And then-"

"Then what happened to Cedric? And I think if it was part of the game, Dumbledore would've known." You bit your lip, thinking, then continued, "I dunno, I expected something major too. But my mum says between Dumbledore and Fudge, her money's on Dumbledore."

"I think maybe," Dona started, eyebrows knit together, "maybe we'll just have to wait and see."

A Ravenclaw from the table behind leaned over, it was Luna. She said, "My father, he runs The Quibbler, we think-"

"What's that?" Yvette interrupted. "The Quivler?"

Luna huffed. "Quibbler. We think-"

"Never heard of it."

Luna reached into her robes and pulled out a colorful magazine. She tossed it into Yvette's lap and continued, "We think Dumbledore and Harry Potter are telling the truth. And that the Prophet should find itself some real journalists." She tossed some hair over her shoulder. "Y/N, have you started the Arithmancy assignment? You may want to, I almost missed dinner working through it."

"Oh, uh, thanks Luna." She nodded and turned back to her table.

Donna blinked a few times. "Anyway, do you reckon you'll make the team this time?"

You sighed. "I don't know. I don't know if I want to make the team. When I tried out last year I just wanted a reason to ask for a broom for Christmas, and I have a broom now. And you know me - I don't have a competitive bone in my body."

"There's always Keeper," Donna said, mouth full of roasted broccoli, "and you've got to try out at least. I am."

Herbert looked up sharply. "You hate flying."

"Well, yeah, but I've never had a reason to do it. Maybe if I did I'd like it."

Yvette rolled her eyes. "Maybe. I'm trying out too."

"Okay," you said, "I will too then. Herb?"

"If you insist."

Thursday evening rolled around after a long day of Charms, Transfiguration, and History of Magic. Herbert, Yvette and Donna came with you to an empty common room after classes so you could fetch your broom. Hoping to keep it a secret, though apparently your attempt had been in vain, you'd been keeping your Cleansweep 7 under your bed. The girl's dormitory was empty too, aside from your white fluffy cat, Wilbur, who was sprawled out across the floor. You scratched behind his ears for a moment and grabbed your broom.

Back in the common room, you said, "D'you reckon everyone's at the Quidditch pitch?"

The four of you tramped across the grounds to the pitch where, as you'd predicted, what looked like every single Hufflepuff had congregated.

Madam Hooch and Zacharias were leading the other two remaining players from last year, a beater and another chaser, all carrying three school brooms each.

"You'll have to share," Madam Hooch said. "Are you all trying out?"

Most people nodded, a few shook their heads and one simply said, "Moral support."

Hooch sighed and said, "Well at least that much hasn't changed. Smith, you may need to book the pitch again next week for a second round. Let me know."

Zacharias had everyone get into groups for the position they'd like to try out for, and you shuffled into the smallest group for Keeper, then the rest of Hufflepuff - the spectators - found seats in the stands joined by Professor Sprout, who beamed broadly at everyone who'd look her way.

"We'll start with Chasers," said Zacharias. "It should be easiest to fill spots from there. Olive, you're up."

Tryouts wore on. Zacharias and Cadwallader juggled the quaffle with increasingly complex passes, all the while McManus did his best to pelt the given new comer with a bludger. It was pretty fun to watch, though there were a few solid hits that ended with a trip to Madam Pomfrey.

Donna did exquisitely poorly, dodging the quaffle as fervently as the bludger, and then quitting almost immediately after catching the quaffle the first time. All she said was, "Nauseous," as she left the pitch to lay down in the stands.

However, Yvette did quite well on her turn, managing to roll on her broom to avoid a bludger and make a tough catch all at once. After she got off her broom, Zacharias shook her hand and said something, then she looked at you with a giddy glint in her eye. You shot her a thumbs up.

Yvette, officially on the team, Beaters were next. You sat with the Keeper and Seeker groups on the cold grass to await your turn. The team continued in quite the same way, just with a new player. Ezra Roberts managed to land a solid hit that sent a thwak echoing across the field, and hit Zacharias squarely in the gut. The quaffle soared past his head. Ezra was welcomed to the team.

Seekers were next, due to their specific need for some amount of daylight. Instead of using an actual snitch, which could be lost for days if uncaught, Zacharias produced a basket of gold painted golf balls, which he sent whizzing into the air at random intervals to see who could catch the most. Herbert did a fair job, but Devon Summerby, admittedly the obvious choice, was welcomed to the team.

Finally, it was time for the Keepers. Only five of the original group had stuck around; most had trailed off to complete homework, though they, and the rest of Hufflepuff, remained in the stands, reading by wand light. Zacharias dismissed the Beaters and the new Seeker, who also clambered into the stands.

Your name was called, and you mounted your broom and kicked off to the circle the goalposts. The sun had disappeared behind the castle, casting long shadows all the way to the forest.

"Just try to keep us from scoring, yeah?" Zacharias shouted.

"Got it!" you shouted back. Quick as a jinx, they zoomed towards you, and you focused on keeping an eye on the quaffle. From Smith to Cadwallader, to Yvette then back to Cadwallader, you blocked the quaffle as it soared towards the leftmost hoop with the back end of your broom. Zacharias recalled the quaffle and you went again. You blocked the next few attempts as well, fairly at home in the air, and it was fun enough.

You were willing to admit, being on the Quidditch team wouldn't be the worst thing.

Something caught your eye from the ground - silvery white hair. Draco Malfoy and the Slytherins who seemed to be constantly one step behind him had marched onto the pitch, brooms in hand, and were scowling at the proceedings. He met your eyes, surprised. The quaffle soared by your head and into the center goal.

"Sorry," you said in a daze, "I got distracted."

Zacharias flew up next to you. "That's alright. Pretty good job, too. Could you send Wanda up?"

You nodded and flew back to the group still sitting on the field. "Wanda, your turn." Wanda Clemm, a sixth year with tight curls and a gap tooth grin, launched herself into the air and proceeded to block every quaffle thrown at her.

Malfoy, standing with his arms folded, refused to look at you as if he had no idea who you were or why he'd even want to acknowledge your existence. The taller one of his two companions caught you looking and sneered. You raised an eyebrow and returned your attention to the players descending from the sky.

Zacharias clapped once and said, "Thanks to everybody for coming out - I think we've got a good lineup this year, all things considered. That's a wrap." People began filtering out of the stands as he turned to you. "Hey, I was wondering if I could make you the substitute in case somebody can't play? You'd have been Keeper if it weren't for that last one."

"Sure!" you said, the surprise evident in your voice, "Of course."

"Great. See you later!"

Yvette, Herbert, Donna, and yourself gathered to walk back to the common room. Then you heard Malfoy say, not even a little under his breath, "Their best player loses a fight with a hedge and they have to try everyone in the house for a suitable replacement? Pathetic." The creaking from the stands stopped as everyone who'd heard him froze. It seemed that no one quite knew what to do.

So, before you had a chance to think about it, you stomped over and snapped up at him, "Have you ever considered not being such a gigantic git?"

"Ten points," Professor Sprout said, "from Slytherin Mr. Malfoy. And ten points from Hufflepuff, Miss Y/L/N. For unsportsmanlike conduct. the both of you are out of line."

You glared at each other for another moment before you turned on your heel abruptly and retreated to the common room with the rest of your house.

~~~ Taglist ~~~

@yeolsbubbles

@ronslovergirl

[chirpsythismorning]

I love it when milkvan accounts have "the superhero and the heart 💜💙" in their bios, like yesss address her by exactly what she doesn't wanna be seen as, and him as how his other love interest standing in the way of milkvan sees him

I can honestly say it's gotten to a point where I feel bad? Like, completely separate from byler obviously, just seeing some of their takes on things, it makes me feel pity almost because their interpretation of what's happening is just so superficial and yet they truly believe it's the most beautiful love story on the planet.

I'm not even the type of byler that hates milkvan tbh. I am a byler that was a milkvan back in the day. Like, I hate to admit this, I hate it so much, but I literally remember rewatching season 2 to prepare for s3's release and I skipped all of s2 practically so I could get to the end to rewatch their reunion! I was that bad!

For those that don't know, s2 was seen as like a big risk from Netflix's perspective, because they were scared that the show would tank since El wasn't with the boys again, specifically Mike, for the entire season. And so I can honestly say, at one point, I contributed to a large sector of fans back then who thought it was the Mike and El show and ended up missing a lot as a result. Though, upon coming across theories post s3 (Mike in front of the closet in Will's room was what opened my eyes officially), I remember rewatching s2 and seeing that shed scene and feeling instantly that it was romantic... And so apparently, all it took was me actually watching it instead of skipping over it to realize....

So that's probably a part of the problem for them still, is that they're watching the milkvan scenes with undivided attention (with rose-tinted goggles), and they're glossing over everything else. Even now, with one season left we still see them downplay Mike and Will's relationship by saying Mike hates Will? And that alone could not make it more obvious that they do not actually watch the show.

Most bylers on the other-hand are capable of watching milkvan scenes, multiple times, like we analyze them to death. And most of us are coming from a good place, genuinely trying to understand these two characters and where they are both coming from. Though, I have yet to see a byler scene be analyzed by milkvans? Like they just don't talk about them beyond downplaying them both romantically and platonically? I'm convinced they've seen every byler scene maybe once bc they were forced to on the first watch but they've avoided their scenes ever since... Not great for their ability to understand the show obviously.

Many of them do in fact view that first meeting in the woods as like them falling in love at first sight. And genuinely, A LOT of people got hooked on Stranger Things in the first place because of Mike and El and them sort of viewing all of their interactions as irrefutably romantic.

And that isn't inherently bad! It's not! But now when you add Will in the mix, you start to see the hypocrisy seep in through the cracks. And it's because by comparison, they view fans merely speculating about Mike's potential feelings for Will as something to be seen as perverted or gross. And so that for me, is when I sort of start to question the groundwork of milkvan.

Because quite frankly, I didn't see any of these people getting angry and defensive about how gross 99% of the audience was for shipping Mike and El in s1-2. As far as I can remember, the show was a hit in large part because it followed this very successful trope of self insert nerdy boy meets girl who is way more 'cool' than him, and people ate that shit up bc we always do. It's what we're used to. It's safe. From what I recall, no one had any problem with Mike trying to kiss El in his basement bathroom after like 3 days of knowing her, during a very traumatic time in their lives and only specifically after Lucas implied Mike was already in love with her and wanted to marry her at this point.

They saw that and said, that's love bitch.

And bylers say this all the time, but it is absolutely true: If the roles were reversed, if El was the best friend of Mike's who went missing and instead Will was a boy they found in the woods while looking for her, fans would have been saying this is obviously a best friends to lovers story between Mike and El!!!.. And that bathroom scene? If that happened between Mike and Will? They would have saw that and said what the fuck kind of sick shit is this.? And maybe it would have been in large part because the circumstances at play, bc it doesn't really matter to me personally when it comes to that situation whether it was a girl and a boy or a boy and a boy, it was an odd choice to make, plain and simple. And that's what I'm trying to say here. That to them, one is true love, and one is disturbing.

Mike's known Will longer. If he is queer (he is), then it's very likely he did have a crush on Will at the time he met El, not necessarily super consciously or anything. But even despite that, I don't think Mike would have felt comfortable with kissing Will in that situation, nor any other boy or girl. They prove this when Mike's makes that comment in s2, chastising Dustin and Lucas for merely being interested in getting to know Max, despite never having spoken a word to her? Like that tells you right there the circumstances and everything at play is what led Mike to try to kiss El in that moment, a moment that was unprecedented and never would have happened in any other scenario.

Even in the case they found Will in the woods instead of El, I don't even think that scene would have happened either? And this is because the whole point of it was for El to ask Mike if she was still pretty despite having a buzz cut (looking like a boy like everyone in the story has been hinting at us that entire season), for Mike to say pretty, really pretty, only for him to look visibly uncomfortable with himself, followed by trying to overcorrect this moment by kissing her.

That scene wouldn't make sense with Mike and Will bc it was happening in the first place because of heteronormativity. And it existing and people thinking it's like peak romance, is in and of itself proving the hypocrisy of an audience that is eventually going to call Will and Mike ending up together, coming out of nowhere and perverted...

Bc you just know if El was Mike's best friend, they never would have had any interest in Will as this boy they found with superpowers. They would have got those scenes of Mike looking everywhere for El and instantly latched onto the boy/girl slow-burn best friends to lovers trope.

The crazy together scene???? If that scene was between Mike and his best friend El, fans would have been rooting for it to end in a kiss... Why do you think the Duffers had that awkward long pause at the end? They were nodding to the fact that this audience is willing to see one thing, but not the other. Even when the thing they're willing to see is overcast by things that should make you a little bit more critical of it in the first place.

Putting Will or any other boy in El's place in that scene in the bathroom or other moments between Mike and El in s1 would have completely removed the romantic lens for most of the audience back then, and it's because... wait for it... HETERONORMATIVITY!

We as a society see a boy and a girl being nice to each other and pressure them to make it official. Hell no a boy and a girl can't just close friends. Either one of them is harboring secret feelings or one of them is gay.

Heteronormativity is literally why most of society latched onto these 2 characters, not necessarily the pieces that made up the whole. And so they have to make up excuses despite the circumstances bc it is so normalized that they don't think twice about it, because they've never had to think twice about it up to this point.

Stories have always catered to them. In fact, the stories we've been exposed to our whole lives has created the expectations we have in the first place.

And so like... I do feel bad but only bc I'm a decent person and don't like to see people hurting genuinely.

No doubt I will feel satisfaction seeing some folks who were hurtful to bylers get a taste of their own medicine, but I genuinely hope that they can eventually learn to accept it and appreciate the story for what the Duffers intend it to be when it's all said and done.

As for the superhero and the heart... again, I feel bad like genuinely, I don't know how to even explain the unnecessary guilt I feel that these strangers who I don't even know are going to be whiplashed tf out of next season...

[dragonmasterhiccup]

(YESS 😭! I wish they included it in the movie, and the gif literally made me snort 🤣)

Ayla jumped lightly in her spot once more, glancing up at her older sister with an expectant grin, "Well? Can he? Can he, can he, can he?" She made it a point to repeat her question, ignoring the small eye roll Freya did.

Ruffling Ayla's hair, Freya stared at Hiccup with an amused expression, "Okay, okay. Neither of you better not get hurt somehow. And you-" She turned to her younger sister before continuing, "You aren't allowed to have a sword like that until you're older."

At her orders, Ayla tried to fix her hair while starting to pout again, "You're no fun..."

-----------

Snorting in response, she slightly tilted her head, "Well then, I'll be sure to remember that you willingly put yourself in a log."

At his smirk, she shrugged, examining her nails as though they were more important. Reflecting a teasing smirk, she spoke nonchalantly: "If you did take a nap, then I'll probably leave you here all alone. Wouldn't want to disturb your peaceful sleep, right?"

Freya shifted in her spot, lifting her chin as she kept the ferns down by her other hand, "As a matter of fact, I am, Sir Haddock."

She'd be lying if she said she didn't enjoy the change of his voice, chuckling at his impersonation as she covered her mouth to hide the grin she wore, "So intense. Only, we'll have to find out who will truly win this battle." Pretending to dust herself off, she glanced in the direction where they came from, "I better prepare my winning speech." At the mention of the Great Hall, though, she perked up and was reminded of lunch, "Hey! Speaking of the Great Hall, we should stop by over there once we're done here."

She was about to ask what he meant by 'just one bird', but the sound of nearby leaves being rustled interrupted her from doing so, quickly ducking behind the rock as the ferns covered her figure. She anticipated for Ayla and the dragons to come bursting through, finding them immediately without much effort, but as she managed to glimpse at where the noise was coming from, she flinched at the unexpected sight of a...bunny.

It's white fur stood out from among the greenery that surrounded them, and she suppressed a snort, "Really? A bunny--"

Her words we cut off as Blaze suddenly appeared right after the bunny, which swiftly ran away from the dragon who scanned the area with narrowed eyes. 'Shoot!' Freya hid herself behind the rock, hoping he didn't see her. With her heart beat becoming steadily faster, she waited for what would happen as the Sand Wraith slowly stalked near the log and rock where she and Hiccup were hiding.

Not long after he appeared, Ayla came running out of the bushes from where Blaze came from as well, beckoning Toothless forward as her amber eyes examined the small clearing. It didn't take her long to see Blaze sit down right next to Hiccup's log, licking his paw nonchalantly as though silently communicating something to her. Noticing him doing so, Ayla creeped up to the log with a devious smirk, trying to make her footsteps as light as possible before she abruptly stood over the withering piece of wood with a triumphant smile, "I got you, Hics!"

She proudly placed her hands on her hips, gaze flickering around the scenery one more time, "Can I call you that? I just came up with it on my way here.." Ayla mumbled, attempting to spot out Freya, who was desperately trying to hold back her laughter. "Anyway, where is Fey at? C'mon, you gotta tell me..!" What she didn't notice, though, was how Blaze walked up to the rock her older sister was hiding behind, immediately knowing what his rider's scent was and sat down in the same mannerism as he did for Hiccup, his tail slowly flicking to the side as he 'innocently' glanced around the forest.

He waved a hand, which looked a little silly, given the small space, "Nah, you wouldn't do that...wait. Would you?" Eyes narrow, he stared at her, trying to determine whether she actually would or not. "Mmmm...no, no I don't think you would."

She already showed that she cared for his safety. That, and Toothless would find him immediately anyways.

At her confirmation of her being comfortable, he gave a satisfied nod. "Good, good..."

"Winning speech? Oh-ho-ho, I wouldn't be so sure. This," he pressed his fingers on the log shell beneath him, "right here, is a perfect hiding spot!"

As if on cue, a piece of the log fell, bouncing off his hair and landing right in front of his arm, his eyes on the broken piece for a moment before looking back at Freya, deadpan. "Okay. You, uh, you might have a point, actually..."

"Well! Too late to turn back now!"

Peeking his head out just enough to see the position of the sun in the sky, he mumbled, "Huh. That late in the day already?"

Scooting back so he was fully hidden again, he couldn't believe how fast the morning came and went. "Yeah, some lunch sounds good, now that you mention it." He'd been having such a nice time, he hadn't even realized that he was hungry.

As the rustling continued, Hiccup retreated further back into the log, staying as still as possible.

The rabbit almost got him, too, but he had a feeling the dragons were close by. Sure enough, he was right.

He could feel the rumble in the ground as Blaze sat next to him, and the log crumbled around him a little bit more.

Well, that didn't last long.

Toothless was by the log, too, nudging it with his nose. Hiccup was surprised it didn't fall apart then and there, but it held.

After Ayla finished speaking, Hiccup crawled his way out of the log, brushing the dirt off himself as he stood up. "Ah, you did! You found me! Though I am curious at how long it would've taken, had you not had the dragons help?"

"Uh, Hics? N-no, I uh, I don't think I'm a fan of that, actually..."

He ruffled his hair, getting the dirt and log debris out as he pretended to look around before shrugging. "I can't tell you that, I feel like that would be breaking some unspoken rule. You'll just have to find her yourself."

As he spoke though, he nodded his head in Blaze's direction, giving Ayla a discreet hint.

[tobiasdrake]

It's over, Erlina. Bring me Aephorul.

Oh, there he is. Good job. Thanks.

HEY. RUDE. Did no one ever teach you that it's not polite to killsteal?

I had a whole pre-mortem speech prepared about how she and I aren't so different in the lengths we'd go to for the people we love, and you ruined it. Ugh, I want to break your neck so bad.

Oh. There you are.

You're not about to tell me I can't wring this guy's neck, right? You were there for my Statement of Intent. You knew what this was about. I will go through you to get to him. I am nowhere near as attached to you as I am to Garl.

No, it's time for him to die, is what it's time for. I want my pound of Fleshmancer.

...what final surprise? Your big thing was Erlina and we beat her. What more could you possibly have--

Oh, fuck me. I got vengeance in my eyes and somehow I completely forgot about Strife. Shit. Right. Fused with the Acolytes to become a whole new kind of thing. A World Eater, I'm guessing.

UGGGGGGH I hate this fucking guy so much.

I'm neurodivergent. I get that being bored can be the most insufferable agony in the world. But get a fucking hobby, man.

Yeah, yeah. Come on, Zale. Let's go god-fight the apocalypse.

Not if Strife has anything to say about it, you're not. *sigh* It never ends. It never goddamn ends. I am not looking forward to whatever immortal eternity vigil we're going to have to perform after this.

Once this is done, I am taking a long-ass vacation and y'all are coming with me. That is not a request.

If you guys could, like, research ways to get my hands around Aephorul's neck while we're gone, that'd be great. Maybe dedicate part of your civilization to it or something. Maybe with a statue of me while we're at it.

Oh, but that is just a friendly request, not some sort of god decree. I'm not going to Great Eagle this shit. Just. If you could. For me.

I don't know why you needed both of us when we've never been apart for more than five minutes, but we love you too, Teaks. Have a good life.

And maybe put those skills to work helping us figure out how to murder Aephorul, because I trust you more than anyone when it comes to deciphering obscure lore.

But don't let that take you away from the most important calling in your life: Writing better fucking tomes. I want Zenith Academy stocked with Teaks Originals of all--

Oh, shit. We're leaving Zenith Academy completely unstaffed. Well, we cleared out all the Dwellers and chased the Acolytes out so hopefully they won't need any more Solstice Warriors ever again. Otherwise those kids will just have to do with an empty school, a bunch of books, and a plank of wood that reads "GOOD LUCK".

I can't speak for Zale but you'll be hearing plenty from me, bestie.

But I really can't delay any longer or else your planet's going to be devoured by a cosmic monstrosity.

Alright, Zale. We're gods now. We must conduct ourselves as such. Dignity. Decorum.

CHOKE

ON

MY

RADIANCE

FUCKWORM

Like gods do.

Come on, Zale. It's going to be a long vigil.

But first: Back down to the planet. Because it's party time.

[koridoru]

Hashira x gn!reader that's usually gentle but beat someone/people who were talking badly about the hashiras

(ah so nezuko)

Reader uses they/them!

(tw: some gore and suggestive language)

"Y/n! Y/n!!"

Mitsuri called from down the hall, she wanted to see her best friend.

She trutted down the hall gracefully, hopping into the room that Y/n was in.

"Oh! Hello Kanroji-san!" Y/n chirped, a soft smile on their face. They waved to Mitsuri.

"Y/n! We get to go on a mission together! Ubuyashiki-sama is sending Iguro-san and Uzui-san with us! We're hunting a pretty powerful demon!"

A hint of excitement flashed in her eyes, a look of determination on her face.

Y/n nodded, following Mitsuri down the hall to find the others.

Obanai was sitting in a tree while Tengen was tying up his hair in preparation for their mission.

"Well well, if it isn't Y/n! You ready for our flashy new mission?"

Tengen nudged Y/n on the shoulder, a wide smile on his face as his whole being seemed to glimmer.

"Isn't eveeything you do flashy, Uzui-san?" Y/n jokes.

Tengen laughed rather proudly, Obanai rolling his eyes as he hops down from his tree branch.

"Will you two take this seriously. This demon has killed dozens, we need to head out as soon as we can."

Obanai glares daggers at the flashy man and the muffin with innocence in their eyes.

"Aw! Don't worry Iguro-san, we'll get there soon!"

In a way, Obanai did appreciate how nice Y/n was to everyone, including him. But he would rather kiss Muzan than admit it.

Y/n giggles a bit, their hands clasped in front of them.

"Speaking of which, he's right, we should definitely head out now!"

Obanai, looks at Mitsuri, blushing under his bandages that she agreed with him.

They all nod, Tengen leading the way as they venture into the forest.

They walked for about a half hour before Y/n asked the dreaded question.

"Are we there yet?" Their eyes were closed and their tongue was sticking out, trying to show how tired they were.

Tengen shushed them, his eyes looking around on alert.

He motioned his hand for them to go forward and spread out a bit, Obanai didn't go far from Mitsuri though.

It was dead quiet until the sound of a twig snapping broke the silence.

Y/n was the cause of this, they squeaked, jumping to the side and clinging to Obanai's haori in fear.

A low growl was heard, followed by a crash of wood. A tree fell, being completely chopped off at the base.

A demon emerges from behind the stump, it's eyes glowing.

The demon was a male, his skin was paper white with black sclera and bright cyan hair that was down to his shoulders. His yukata was bloodstained, his claws as well.

"Well well, what do we have here? Demon hunters?" He growls, a malignant grin on his face.

All four of them drew their swords,

Y/n shaking a bit.

The demon looked down at Mitsuri's sword.

"What the hell is that? A whip? I shouldn't have expected more from a shameless tramp like you, with that your shirt open like that."

He growls, pointing a clawed finger at Mitsuri.

"Sh-shameless tramp?!" Mitsuri was quite offended.

The demon scoffs.

"And what about that one." He points to Obanai. "Why the bandages, you trying to look cool? Maybe learn to cut your hair better."

Obanai's eyes narrowed, he clenched his sword tightly.

Y/n's eyes widened, they started to shake a bit, but not with fear, with wrath.

"You guys are hashiras, aren't you? How pathetic, that tall one looks like he's just for show."

"I'll have you know my three wives and I do a great number of good for the demon slayer corp!" Tengen rushes to his defense.

"Three wives? Three? Wow, you must be desperate to take in three sluts like that."

The demon cackles, all four of the slayers now enraged, but none quite as angry as Y/n.

"Wow, this is a new feeling... Shock without fear. Although it's overshadowed by all this unyielding rage!"

Y/n lets out a gutteral yell, leaping forward and slashing at the demon several times, cutting off one of its arms.

The other hashira watch in shock, they had never seen Y/n like this.

Y/n grabs the hair of the demon and kicks his chest, sending him flying back while affectively ripping his head off with their bare hands.

They were holding the demons head in their hand, panting and trembling with rage.

They drop his head, letting it disintegrate.

They turn around, their eyes once again full of innocence.

"Are you guys okay? You ready to head back now?"

The hashira could do nothing but stare in shock.

"W-wha.. what was that about?!" Mitsuri was rather alarmed.

"Whaaat? I couldn't just let him talk trash about you guys!" Y/n had a somewhat sad look on their face, as if they weren't covered in demon blood.

[voraciousvore]

The Giant (7/16)

***Contains violence and kidnapping***

------Chapter 7------

I woke up to the rising sun streaming in through the window. I felt so comfortable and warm, cuddled up on the giant's chest. He had placed his hand protectively over me while I had been asleep. I stretched and yawned, cracking my back.

"Chester? Time to wake up," I said, massaging his chest with my hands. He shifted underneath me and closed his fingers around my midsection, lifting me off his chest.

"Good morning," he yawned, raising himself up to a sitting position. He rubbed his eyes sleepily with his other hand.

"What do you want to do today?" I asked him. I was very happy with the events of the previous night and was in the mood for an adventure.

"Actually..." Chester began, "I had something in mind, but I wasn't sure what you would think about it." I looked up at him questioningly. "I know I said earlier that it wouldn't be safe for you to be around other giants. Which is still true. I was thinking I might be able to mask your scent with cologne and hide you on my person while I wore the same cologne. Then I could take you out with me, and nobody would be able to detect you. What do you think? Would you want to try it?"

I furrowed my brow and ruminated on the idea. While the plan would be risky, Chester would still be around to protect me if I were discovered. Going out sounded fun, and I really wanted to see more of the world I was in. We could go to a bookstore or library and obtain books about magic. I didn't want to stay isolated from the world for the rest of my life.

I looked up at Chester, starry-eyed with excitement, and grinned. "I want to go."

"Great!" he proclaimed. We hurriedly dressed, ate breakfast, and prepared to leave. Chester threw on a big hoodie with a roomy pocket in the front for me to hide in. He brought out the cologne, a small clear bottle full of light purple fluid.

"I'm going to have to spray this on you pretty liberally to conceal your scent, so you might want to cover your eyes and nose," Chester warned. I complied, and he drenched me in fluid, then sprayed it all over himself. I sneezed and rubbed my nose. Once the excess spray dissipated, Chester kneeled down to my level and inhaled deeply through his nose.

"I think that will work. It doesn't completely eliminate your scent, but covers it well enough." I gazed into his giant handsome face and smiled idiotically. He smiled back tenderly and grasped me in his hand, gently depositing me in the pocket in the front of his jacket. The inside of the pocket was large and soft, and I could see out the sides without feeling too exposed. I was jostled about when he started walking, but I soon adjusted to the rhythm of his gait. The weather outside was chillier than it had been the past few days, and overcast, the sun hidden behind a gloomy barrier of gray clouds. To my surprise I heard the familiar beep of a car unlocking, then the opening of a car door, and I felt a little disoriented as the giant sat down in the driver's seat.

"You have a car?" I asked, realizing how dumb the question was as soon as I spoke.

"Of course," Chester answered. "I live out in the woods. It would be too far to walk where we're going." The car engine roared to life, and I settled in against the giant's torso, appreciating the heat radiating from his body. The ride was bumpy, and lasted about twenty minutes. Eventually the car stopped.

"Where are we?" I inquired, not able to see anything from inside the pocket.

Chester opened the car door and stepped out. "We're at the market. Don't be afraid, I will keep you safe." As he started walking, I peeked out the side, and felt my heart jump into my throat. There were giants everywhere, and they were all frighteningly massive. Some of them gave Chester strange looks as he passed by, and I realized with dread they must suspect something. I retreated deeper into the pocket, hugging my legs, and started to involuntarily shake like a leaf in the wind. Chester must have felt me shaking because he reached his hand into his pocket and held me softly, petting me with his thumb in an effort to calm me down. I huddled into his hand and gripped his fingers tightly. Chester would protect me, but one wrong move and I could potentially be stolen away and eaten alive. I had already lived through that terrifying experience once, and I never wanted it to happen again. I cringed and held on to his hand tighter.

After a few minutes Chester stopped walking. His fingers encircled me and he pulled me out of his pocket, keeping me hidden inside his fist. Cautiously, he opened his hand enough so that I could see we were standing in front of a giant bookshelf full of thick tomes about magic.

"Which ones do you want?" Chester whispered, trying not to draw attention to himself. I looked over the books and pointed at a couple that interested me. Chester took them off the shelf with his free hand.

"Do you want to look around the market some more, or are you too afraid? Would you prefer to go home now?" Chester questioned under his breath.

"Let's go home," I said back quietly. "I'm frightened." Chester nodded and put me back in his jacket pocket. He went up to the counter and paid for the books I had picked out, chatting politely with the giantess at the register. As I warily peered out of the side opening, I noticed a tall, thin giant across the room staring in my direction. I didn't think he was able to see me directly, but he was fixated on my giant protector, as if he knew that Chester had a human on his person. The way he looked chilled my blood. His eyes were blue, cold as ice, and he had long blond hair pulled back neatly into a ponytail. He was gaunt and pale, with high cheekbones that gave him a haughty, aristocratic mien. He was dressed in a black coat with brass buttons, pants, and boots. He maintained his intense gaze the entire time we were in the store.

I felt rising panic in my chest, but as usual there was nothing I could do. I desperately wanted to warn Chester, but there was no way for me to communicate to him my concerns without drawing outside attention. Chester walked out of the store, books in tow, oblivious to the potential threat. I couldn't see if the giant man was following us or not. I rocked back and forth with anxiety. I wanted to look out but was too afraid of being seen by other giants as Chester strolled through the crowd. Eventually, Chester made his way to the parking lot, which was mostly deserted. I thought this might be a good opportunity to warn him.

"Chester!" I hissed, trying to get his attention as quietly as I could. "Chester! I think someone might be following us!"

Chester stopped in his tracks and stiffened. He turned around to survey his surroundings. Before he could do anything, however, something crashed into his head. With a grunt, he dropped like a stone to the pavement. He landed on his back so I wasn't crushed under his body. Although I was not harmed, I was too stunned to react. An ominous shadow loomed overhead. I stayed in my hiding place, a wave of terror washing over me. Someone was roughly searching his body, rifling through his clothes. Suddenly, a giant bony hand snaked into the jacket pocket and bumped into me. I yelped and tried to dash away, but the hand was much faster and violently grabbed me. I screamed as I was ripped out of the pocket and into the cold air.

The terrifying giant that had been watching us earlier was crouching over me, his face contorted into rage. When he saw the prize he had snagged, he flashed me a vicious grin, revealing gleaming white teeth. He was inconceivably massive, even taller than Chester, and I realized immediately I was in serious danger as I struggled fruitlessly in his tight grip.

"Chester!" I shrieked. "Help me!" I glanced back to see his head covered in blood, eyes closed, flat on his back. The other giant tightened his grip, causing me to cry out in pain. His hands had none of the gentleness that Chester's possessed.

"Finally!" the cruel giant declared. "I have my own human!" He stood up to his full height and brought me close to his face to get a better look. I started to cry. My tears only seemed to amuse him. His cold blue eyes ogled me in a way that made my skin crawl.

"Please... let me go," I pleaded, gasping for breath. "You're hurting me."

He ignored my supplications, shoving me into his coat pocket and striding off.

Chapter 8

Chapter 1

[thecurseoflife]

CHAPTER 22 : A traitor in the ranks

-What a night to raid a forge, right ?

Andrew's allies sighed. Ah, how they hated this man. But yet, they were here, late at night, ready to charge at his command.

-I don't think there's such a thing as a nice night to murder people.

-I mean we could be covered in blood and rain ! Now it's just blood.

-Great.

Camalia was slightly feeling ill. Her eyes glimmered a bit at the mention of murder. She hated talking about hurting people, and killing them was the worst kind of pain to give. But she couldn't show it. Suck it up, push it down, and forget about it forever. A very healthy coping mechanism.

-So are we going to stand around all day or are we going in ?

-In a second Juniper, be patient.

The warrior groaned.

-I've been patient for the last 15 minutes ! I don't understand what we're doing right now.

Suddenly Andrew tensed up and hold up his hand, effectively shutting everyone up. He waited a few seconds, then signaled everyone to move. They slowly made their way to the door, making sure to be invisible from the few windows in the building.

Kai was first and once everyone was ready, he burst the door open, shards of wood being splattered everywhere.

They all ran in, weapons ready, prepared to fight and maybe kill... no one. The forge was completely empty. Well, completely would be an exageration. There was blacksmith's tools laying around. They all turned to Andrew, back to them, wondering what to do next. He brutally threw his weapon on the ground and turned to them, furious. Despite his frantic gestures and terrifying expression, his voice was calm and low.

-There is no way they could have known. We have a mole.

Everyone tensed, and Juniper stepped forward, carefully.

-Wait, Andrew. Don't jump to conclusion, maybe the informations we got were wrong or-

The beautiful yet bloodcurdling man violently slammed his fist on a nearby table, effectively shutting her up, and making his allies jump a little.

-No. I know what I am saying, Juniper. Don't... contradict me.

He raised his fist a little, and all could see the mark his hand left on the wood. His gaze slowly analyzed his crew, judging their sweat, the trembling of their legs, any sign that could make him understand which one betrayed him. However, he didn't seem to find what he was looking for, and in a fit of rage, threw all the content of the table on the ground, making it fly everywhere. He left the forge fuming, enraged, feeling worse by the second.

It took a while for everyone in the forge to regain their composure, before following him silently, suspicious of everyone. No words were exchanged. They got back to the castle, went into their separate rooms and hopped to bed. No comments about the situation, no accusations, nothing.

Camalia was terrified. She knew this mission would be the one to compromise her the most, but she didn't expect such a strong reaction. She didn't regret anything, and would do it again, but she was afraid. What if someone saw her room empty ? What if someone had been onto her this whole time ? What if that someone tell on her ? Would she die ? Would anyone care ? She was so scared. So, so scared. Her guts were wrapped uncomfortably, her throat was tight and her nose tingly. She could feel her eyes burn, ready to let out tears, but she prevented it. She couldn't. What if...

In his bed, in the dark, staring at the ceiling, Varian knew. He was mortified, but he knew. And he didn't know what to do.

The next morning, they weren't woken up before the sun for a fruitless meeting. Good, they really needed that sleep. Especially since they all had trouble finding it. Except, of course, Clementine, that slept like a baby, right after convincing Andrew she couldn't be the spy and antagonizing the rest of the crew.

So, in the middle of the morning, they were in the kitchen, groggy and with dark circles under their eyes. The leader put his hand on the table, and all the attention turned to him.

-As you all know, we have a mole.

Juniper let out a groan, flopping on her chair.

-Andrew, PLEASE. There could be thousands of other ways they could have known. Or maybe they didn't and simply change location every so often.

The fabulous man slowly closed his eyes, his shaking breath slowly coming out of his mouth. Clearly containing his anger, Andrew spoke slowly, devoid of all emotions, and flat as can be.

-I am sure. Juniper. That we have. A. Mole. I don't have to explain myself to you.

Juniper rolled her eyes, clearly thinking he should, but said nothing. Starting a fight with with egocentric man would lead nowhere, and it would be more productive to simply search for the traitor, and once they don't find anyone, he'll admit he's wrong. He looked at her dead in the eyes, expecting a comeback, but once he was sure nothing would ensue, resumed his speech.

-That mole is dangerous. They probably already warned the rebellion of our plan, and is keeping tabs of our every move. Soon enough, they'll gather enough information to lead the rebellion in an attack against us. An attack that, with enough informations, they are sure to win. To avoid that from happening, we need to find that traitor. Right here. Right now.

Gazes were exchanged. Curious, suspicious, uninterested, worried... That meeting was going to split the group. Inevitably, hurtful things will be said, accusations thrown, and trust will break as soon as one start to speak. So, no one was saying anything. What a great way to prevent things, avoiding them altogether.

Annoyed that things weren't moving along, Clementine threw the first accusation.

-I have come to notice that both Maisie and Kai haven't been very present in the castle.

The two men immediatly stiffen, shocked.

-Excuse me, counter-attacked Maisie, but we have not seen much of you either. We simply do not cross path in this gigantic palace, is it really that suspicious ? Juniper can testify that we are very much present in the castle, to use your words.

-Yes, what he's saying is true. I often barge into their room unannounced and they're always there or working on something in the castle. I always find them relatively quickly.

Clementine gritted her teeth.

-Oh, what a convenient excuse for you Juniper. And who can "testify" of your whereabouts between those times then ?

Juniper's retribution was nothing but a muffled sound for Varian. He didn't need to think very long, throw random insults, or any of this to know who was the traitor. Well, to have a good idea of who it might be. But what if he was wrong ? What if it wasn't her ? He had to make sure. He had to know.

But how ? His throat was tight, his body was sweating, his mind was foggy. It should be easy. Ask her, just ask the question. In the middle of the commotion, of the screams and the shocked gasps. They were the only one still seated on their chair, Varian staring at her in hesitation and dread. What if he is right then, mh ? What would he do ? Was this really another betrayal ? How come it didn't feel like it at all. No. No, no, no. Don't... overthink before knowing the truth. Come on. Just open your mouth, and...

-Camalia...

It was soft, hesitant, almost whispered. Yet it catched her attention immediatly. She looked up from the ground she had been staring it, her eyes wide in fear. Droplets were running down her face, crashing down on the chair, beside her hands tightly gripped to the wood.

-Are you...

He stopped, once again doubting, questionning whether he actually wanted to know or not. But her expression had brutally calmed down, and she seemed determined...no. She seemed accepting.

-Are you the traitor, Camalia ?

-Yes.

Glass shattered, and they turn their head to the noise only to see all the Saporians staring at them. Juniper, Maisie and Kai seemed horrified, while Clementine had a wicked smile and Andrew's face fell as dark as ever. Camalia felt the oh so familiar tingle of fear travel through her back, but she didn't mind. She closed her eyes, and with a faint smile, waited for her sentence.

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