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lumiereandstellaluna · 8 months ago

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Chapter Seven: A Cry in the Dark

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

With a snap of her fingers, Stellaluna transforms back into Thomasin. "While we wait for Tsuki to do her work, maybe we should eat something. Today went harder than we anticipated, Xavier."

As Thomasin reverted to her true form with a simple snap, Xavier followed suit, the mystical energy dissipating around him as he transformed back into his everyday self. The adrenaline of the battle was fading, leaving behind the more mundane reality of hunger and exhaustion.

"You're right," Xavier acknowledged, feeling the toll the day's events had taken on his body. "Food sounds like a good idea. We've earned a decent meal after all that."

He knew the importance of replenishing their energy, not just for their physical well-being, but to maintain their readiness for whatever might come next. The Doll Maker's threat still loomed over them, and they needed to be at their best to face her again.

"Let's find a quiet place to eat," Xavier suggested, his mind already on the comfort of a warm meal. "Somewhere we can talk and unwind without drawing too much attention."

Together, they made their way through the city streets, the sounds of the bustling metropolis a stark contrast to the silence of the rooftop they had left behind. They found a small, inconspicuous diner that seemed perfect for their needs—a place where heroes could blend in as just another pair of patrons in need of sustenance.

As they settled into a booth, Xavier allowed himself a moment to relax, the familiar ritual of sharing a meal with Thomasin a welcome respite from the demands of their double lives. They would eat, they would plan, and they would be ready for whatever Tsuki's analysis revealed. For now, though, they were just Xavier and Thomasin, two friends sharing a meal, their bond strengthened by the battles they fought side by side.

Ordering a club sandwich with crispy fries and lemonade, Thomasin sinks into her seat, tired and hungry. "So...what a day, huh? Seriously, I don't know how I'm supposed to go back to work next week when things seem to be really shifting into high gear."

Xavier ordered a hearty meal for himself, knowing his bottomless appetite all too well. As he watched Thomasin sink into her seat, he could see the weariness in her posture, the kind that only comes after a day of pushing oneself to the limit.

"It's been... eventful," Xavier replied, his voice carrying a hint of understatement. He understood the challenge of balancing their ordinary lives with the extraordinary demands of being guardians of the city. "But you'll manage. You always do."

He took a sip of water, considering her words. "We'll adapt, like we always have. Our duty to the city doesn't pause for the nine-to-five. But remember, you're not alone in this. I'm here, Tsuki's here. We're a team."

Xavier leaned back, his gaze steady and reassuring. "We'll take it one day at a time. And when work starts again, we'll find a way to make it all fit. We always find a way."

The food arrived, and Xavier took a moment to appreciate the simple pleasure of a meal shared with a friend and ally. "Let's enjoy this break while we can," he said, offering a small, encouraging smile. "We've earned it, and we'll need our strength for whatever comes next."

As they began to eat, the diner around them faded into the background, their conversation a quiet island in the midst of the world's noise. They were two people, connected by a secret that weighed heavily on them, yet also bound them together in a way few could understand.

"I know we'll figure it out. I'm just not used to this kind of excitement. Like, I write stories, deal with perfectionist directors and pushy fans waiting for the next chapter. I didn't...you know." She winks. He knows. "I mean, how did you deal with all this stuff before I literally dropped into your life?"

She wasn't kidding about the "dropped in" part. On the day the game recognized her as Stellaluna, it teleported her right to where Xavier was engaging a menacing wanderer. Before she had a chance to be terrified, she was given her Moon charm, instantly transforming into Stellaluna. In a moment worthy of a movie, she intercepted the wanderer with her dual blades before it could deal the final blow to Xavier.

They've been a team ever since.

Xavier took a bite of his meal, chewing thoughtfully as he listened to Thomasin's musings. Her wink was met with a quiet chuckle, the shared memory of her dramatic entrance into his life as vivid as if it had happened mere moments ago.

"I managed," Xavier said after a moment, his tone even. "But it was... different. More solitary. Having you here, it's changed the dynamics, for the better."

He paused, considering how to articulate the shift in his world since Thomasin became Stellaluna. "Before you, it was a lot of silent battles, a lot of shadows. You brought balance, a new perspective. Made me realize that even a lone wolf can benefit from running with a pack." Xavier's gaze drifted to the window, watching the city lights flicker. "You've made me stronger, not just in battle, but in spirit. We're a team, and that means we share the weight of this... excitement."

He offered her a small, genuine smile, a rare glimpse into the appreciation he held for their partnership. "We'll navigate this new chapter together, just like we've faced everything else. Side by side."

Their conversation was a dance of words, a subtle acknowledgment of the bond they had formed. As they finished their meal, the weight of the day seemed to lift slightly, replaced by the comfort of camaraderie and the unspoken promise that no matter what lay ahead, they would face it as one.

"Excitement?" she laughs. "Yeah. But I guess I get what you're saying. I mean, working on stuff, always having deadlines and whatever, I don't have a lot of friends. The only people I meet up with a lot are the folks I work with on shows and everything. But as crazy as all this is, it's nice to have...someone...you know?"

Thomasin averts her gaze, feeling rather shy. "Sorry, forget I said that."

Xavier listened to her laughter, a sound that seemed to momentarily lift the gravity of their situation. He understood the isolation that came with her line of work, the relentless pressure of deadlines and the transient nature of professional relationships.

When she spoke of having someone, Xavier felt the weight of her words, the significance of that simple acknowledgment. He respected the vulnerability it took for her to express that sentiment, even as she quickly tried to dismiss it.

"No need to apologize," Xavier said softly, his voice carrying a quiet assurance. "I get it. It's not just the battles and the close calls. It's the moments in between, the ones like this. They matter."

He met her gaze, his own eyes steady and sincere. "You're not alone, Thomasin. Not anymore. We're in this together, in every sense. And that's something worth acknowledging, no matter how crazy things get."

Their conversation was a delicate balance of shared experiences and unspoken understanding. As they finished their meal and prepared to face the rest of the evening, there was a sense of solidarity between them, a silent agreement that they were more than just allies—they were friends, connected by a bond forged in the fires of adversity and strengthened by moments of quiet connection.

"Xavier, what have I told you about being so sweet and making a girl feel special?" Her voice is playful, but behind the laughter, there is shyness there. Xavier was a very handsome man - looking into his eyes was like looking into an entire galaxy. She might have regarded him as her good partner, but she was also a woman. She could and did notice such things. "I worry about the woman who one day wins your heart. One day you're going to say something nice to her and her heart is going to come flying out of her chest because you made it flutter so much."

Xavier's response was a gentle smile, one that acknowledged the playful tease while respecting the shyness that lingered beneath her words. He was aware of the effect he could have, the way his demeanor could be both disarming and enchanting.

"I suppose I'll have to be careful then," Xavier said, his tone light, a touch of humor in his voice. "Wouldn't want to be responsible for any unintended heart flights."

He leaned back in his seat, his eyes holding a warmth that matched his smile. "But in all seriousness, making someone feel special isn't something I take lightly. It's important to appreciate the people who make a difference in our lives."

Xavier's gaze was steady, his words simple yet sincere. "And you, Thomasin, you've made quite the impact. So, consider any fluttering hearts a hazard of the job."

Their banter was easy, a comfortable exchange between two people who had grown to know each other well. As they prepared to leave the diner, Xavier was reminded of the unique connection they shared, one that was as much about the battles they fought as it was about the moments of human connection that followed. It was a partnership that transcended the ordinary, and he valued it more than he often let on.

"Hey! Hey! Listen." Thomasin was just getting up from their booth with Tsuki started calling out from her phone. "Do you hear me? I'm done here!"

Thomasin looks at Xavier. "Probably should take this in a more private place, yeah?"

Xavier nodded in agreement, his movements deliberate as he stood up from the booth. "Definitely. Let's find somewhere away from prying eyes and ears."

He led the way out of the diner, his senses alert for a suitable spot where they could discuss Tsuki's findings without interruption. The city offered many hidden corners and quiet spaces for those who knew where to look, and Xavier was well-versed in the art of discretion.

They found a secluded park bench tucked away in a dimly lit corner of a nearby park, the perfect place for a private conversation. The night had brought a cool breeze, and the rustling leaves whispered secrets of their own.

As Thomasin took out her phone, Xavier watched over her shoulder, his presence a silent pillar of support. Tsuki's eager voice filled the air, and both of them leaned in to listen, ready to uncover the next piece of the puzzle in their ongoing battle against the Wanderers.

"Finally, you let me out of my cage!" Tsuki says, rhythmically bouncing up and down. "I analyzed the protocore and discovered some interesting things. But you'll need to bring me more in order to confirm my findings."

"That makes sense," Thomasin replies. "What have you got so far."

"The energy in these protocores aren't like anything we've encountered before with past wanderers. It's almost like its a warped kind of energy - one energy mixed over another. It's almost like it's a parasitical form of energy, in which one form of energy takes control over another."

"Hmm..." Thomasin thinks for a moment. "Didn't the Doll Maker said she could control the wanderers? Maybe that's what you're seeing - her energy controlling the wanderers. What do you think, Xavier?"

Xavier listened intently as Tsuki relayed the findings, his mind already turning over the implications. The notion of a parasitic energy was troubling, suggesting a level of control and manipulation that went beyond their previous encounters with Wanderers.

"It's a plausible theory," Xavier said, his voice low and contemplative. "If the Doll Maker can indeed control the Wanderers, it would explain the unusual energy signatures Tsuki's picking up. It's like she's imprinting her will onto them, bending them to her purposes."

He looked at Thomasin, his expression serious. "We need to gather more protocores to confirm this, but it's a lead worth pursuing. Understanding her control mechanism could be key to stopping her."

Xavier's gaze returned to Tsuki, the digital advisor still bouncing with an energy that seemed inexhaustible. "Tsuki, keep analyzing the data. We'll get you more samples. The more we know, the better equipped we'll be to face the Doll Maker."

As they stood in the quiet park, the gravity of the situation settled around them like the evening mist. The battle was evolving, the stakes rising with each new revelation. But Xavier felt a steady resolve within him, bolstered by the presence of his partner and the guidance of their digital ally.

"We'll get to the bottom of this," Xavier assured Thomasin, his determination clear. "No matter what it takes."

"We're going to need a protocore from the wanderers she summons herself if we're going to get to the bottom of it," Thomasin says. "I wish we had grabbed the protocore from the one she summoned against me with that day. There's no telling when she might do it again."

Xavier nodded in agreement, the missed opportunity a lingering regret. "Next time, we'll be ready," he assured her with a firmness that left no room for doubt. "We'll make sure to secure a protocore from one of her personally summoned Wanderers. It's crucial for our understanding of her control."

He stood up from the bench, his posture reflecting the readiness to act. "We'll stay vigilant. The Doll Maker is bound to strike again, and when she does, we'll use the opportunity to our advantage."

Xavier's eyes met Thomasin's, conveying a silent promise that they would not be caught unprepared again. "Let's keep training and stay on our toes. We can't predict when she'll appear, but we can make sure we're ready to face whatever she throws at us."

As they left the park, the city's nocturnal symphony playing around them, Xavier felt the familiar pull of the hunter's life—the anticipation of the hunt, the readiness for battle, and the unyielding resolve to protect. With Thomasin by his side and Tsuki's guidance, he knew they were a formidable team, one that the Doll Maker would come to fear.

"More training? Seriously?" Thomasin looks like she might curl up into a ball and cry. "Xavier, you're going to be the death of me."

Xavier's lips quirked up in a half-smile, recognizing the exhaustion behind Thomasin's dramatics. "Not the death, Thomasin, just the forging," he said, his voice carrying a lightness to ease her weariness. "Steel sharpens steel, and you're getting sharper every day."

He took a step closer, his tone softening. "But not tonight. Rest is just as important as training. You've earned it."

Xavier knew the importance of balance—pushing too hard could be just as detrimental as not training at all. "Tomorrow is another day, and we'll face it when it comes. For now, let's get some rest. We both need it."

As they made their way back, Xavier was mindful of Thomasin's limits. He was a relentless warrior, but he was also a protector, and part of that duty was to ensure that his partner was taken care of, not just in battle, but in all things.

[Another week later]

Thomasin is lucky - so far, the Director doesn't need her for now, so she's been left alone, writing the next script for the serial. In between writing sessions, she trains with Xavier, preparing for their next encounter with the Doll Maker and her wanderers. It's a tiring balancing act, but somehow, she gets it done. Xavier's encouragement helps her more than she realizes.

Her work group chat wouldn't let up about all the Lumiere and Stellaluna sightings. The two heroes of Linkon City were all they could talk about - whether it was who was the stronger person (Lumiere, hand's down) or whether the duo were single or dating each other.

Ugh, why do people always ship folks like that? We're just friends! It's not like that! Thomasin thought, exasperated. Besides, it's kinda hard to think of romance when, you know, we're trying to save everybody's lives!

But the worst part was that the Director was thinking of making an action series about Lumiere and Stellaluna - and he wanted Thomasin to write the script. She politely declined, of course (she wasn't about to reveal her secrets, intentionally or not), but the Director was persistent.

"Spiderman didn't have to deal with this nonsense - so why should I?" Thomasin murmured before plopping her head onto her desk gently. "Eff my life!"

Xavier had been quietly observing Thomasin from the doorway, a silent sentinel in her moments of frustration. He could see the weariness etched into her features, the battle between her dual lives taking its toll.

He stepped into the room, his presence a calming force. "Spiderman also didn't have a Lumiere to watch his back," Xavier said, his voice a gentle reminder of their partnership. "And as for the shipping, let them talk. They don't know the half of what we do, the sacrifices we make."

He approached her desk, leaning against it with an ease that spoke of their shared comfort. "You're doing more than most could handle, Thomasin. You're writing stories that captivate minds while living a story that could change the world."

Xavier's hand found a stray pen, twirling it absentmindedly as he spoke. "As for the action series, let the Director dream. You and I, we have bigger battles to fight, more important narratives to shape."

He offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Take a breath. You're not alone in this. We'll handle it together, like we always do. And when the time comes, we'll give them a story worth telling—the truth of Lumiere and Stellaluna, the heroes behind the masks."

"Geez, Xavier!" She jumped high up from her desk, shocked to see her partner behind her. "How...How did you get inside my apartment? Is your teleportation power that overpowered?!"

Xavier's expression remained composed, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes at her startled reaction. "Teleportation would be quite the trick," he said with a soft chuckle. "But no, I used a more traditional method. The door was unlocked."

He straightened up, his stance relaxed. "You've been so focused, I didn't want to disturb you with a knock. But I'm here if you need a break, or just someone to vent to."

Xavier understood the importance of being there for Thomasin, whether it was for a training session or simply to offer a moment of respite from the pressures of her double life. "Sometimes, the quietest entries are the ones that can make the loudest impact," he added, his tone light, trying to ease the tension of the surprise.

He knew well the boundaries of their partnership and respected her space, but he also recognized when she might need that unspoken support. "I'll make more noise next time," he promised, a smile playing on his lips. "Just to keep your heart from leaping out of your chest."

"Oh well thank you." She gestures to her bed nearby, where he sits down. "Did you bring food too? Or we can order some. I haven't eaten yet."

Xavier took a seat on the edge of the bed, his movements graceful and deliberate. "I thought you might be hungry," he said, reaching into a bag he had brought with him. "I brought some takeout from that place you like—the one with the spicy noodles and the dumplings."

He placed the bag on the bed between them, the aroma of the food wafting into the air, a tempting invitation to take a break and replenish their strength. "But if you're in the mood for something else, we can always order your favorite."

Xavier knew the comfort that familiar food could bring, especially after a long day of juggling responsibilities. It was a simple gesture, but one that spoke volumes of his attentiveness to her needs.

"We can eat, talk, or just enjoy the silence," he offered, giving her the choice. "Whatever you need right now, Thomasin, I'm here."

"Oh my god, you're heaven sent, Xavier." She places her hand on her mouth so he doesn't see her drooling over the food. "Thank you so much, partner. Have I told you how much I appreciate you? Because I do."

Xavier's eyes softened at her words, a silent acknowledgment of their bond. "You don't need to say it, Thomasin. It's what partners are for," he replied, his voice carrying the weight of their shared experiences and unspoken understanding.

He opened the takeout containers, the steam rising and filling the room with the scent of well-spiced food. "Let's eat. You need your strength," he said, handing her a pair of chopsticks.

As they began to eat, Xavier was content to share the moment in companionable silence, knowing that sometimes actions spoke louder than words. The simple act of sharing a meal was a testament to their partnership—a partnership that went beyond battles and heroics, rooted in the care they had for each other.

Xavier watched as Thomasin's tension eased with each bite, her appreciation clear in her relaxed posture and the small, contented sounds she made. In these quiet moments, away from the chaos of their lives, they found solace and strength in each other's company.

"Hold on. Hold the plate for me." Focusing on the plate, Thomasin holds out her hand. The plate shakes a little before moving toward her. She carefully takes the plate in her hands, pleased with her new ability. "That's like...the coolest thing ever."

Xavier held the plate steady, an observer to the display of her burgeoning ability. His eyes tracked the movement of the plate, a hint of pride in his gaze at her accomplishment. "Impressive," he said, the word laced with genuine admiration. "You're getting stronger, more in tune with your abilities. It's remarkable to witness."

He watched as she took the plate, her pleasure in her newfound skill evident. "It is cool," he agreed, his voice steady and encouraging. "And it's only going to get more impressive from here. You're tapping into potential you haven't even begun to explore."

Xavier's belief in her was unwavering; he saw not just what she was, but what she could become. As they continued their meal, he knew that this was just a glimpse of the power Thomasin held within her, a power that would grow and shape the future of their fight against the darkness that threatened their city.

"All this time, I didn't think I even had an evol. And now that I do, it's telekinesis? So cool!" She takes a bite out of her plate of food. "Oh my God...remind me to buy this food when my sinuses are clogged up. The spice will set it straight!

Xavier's smile was a quiet echo of her excitement. "Discovering an Evol is always a turning point," he said, his tone reflecting a touch of wonder. "Telekinesis is a rare gift. You'll wield it well, I have no doubt." He watched her enjoy the food, her reaction to the spice a moment of levity amidst the gravity of their lives. "I'll remember," he assured her. "Spicy remedies for clogged sinuses. Though, with your new ability, you might just be able to clear them with a thought."

Xavier's humor was subtle, a gentle nudge to keep the mood light. He took another bite of his own meal, savoring the flavors and the company. "Enjoy your meal, Thomasin. You've earned it, and then some."

"Hey, you're my partner, right? So be sure you enjoy your food, too." She smiles, noticing how much happier she is with him around. "Besides, I can't possibly eat all this spicy food. Then again, if I eat it just before a wanderer fight, do you think I'd breath fire? Because that would definitely be a boon."

Xavier chuckled at the playful suggestion, the sound a low rumble in the quiet of the room. "Breathing fire would certainly add a new element to our battles," he said, the twinkle in his eye betraying his amusement. "Though I think I'd prefer to keep the fire-breathing to the dragons we might face."

He took another bite of his food, enjoying the heat that danced across his taste buds. "And you're right, as partners, we share the load—and the meals. I'll help you with the spice, but let's save the fire-breathing for the Wanderers who need a good scorching."

Xavier's presence was a steady comfort, his quiet demeanor a counterbalance to the chaos of their lives. As they ate, there was a sense of camaraderie that only those who have faced darkness together could truly understand. It was a bond forged in fire, unbreakable and enduring.

Xavier noticed the abrupt halt in her words, his gaze lifting to meet hers with a silent question. "Is everything alright, Thomasin?" he asked, his voice a soft note of concern.

He set his chopsticks down, giving her his full attention. Xavier was always ready to listen, to step in when needed, or to simply be there, a steadfast presence in the ever-shifting tides of their lives.

The room was filled with the quiet comfort of companionship, the kind that didn't always need words to communicate. Xavier waited patiently, ready to respond to whatever was on her mind, whether it was a new revelation, a sudden idea, or just the need to share a moment of silence.

"Ah, sorry." She pats her chest. "Some of that spice got caught up in my chest. I just need some water." Thomasin got up from her desk chair, totally missing the book that was on the floor. She trips over it, losing her balance very quickly. "AH!!!"

In an instant, Xavier was on his feet, his reflexes honed from countless battles allowing him to catch Thomasin before she hit the ground. His arms were secure around her, a protective embrace that steadied her.

"Careful," he said, his voice calm and reassuring as he helped her back to her feet. "The spice is one thing, but we can't have you battling the floor as well."

Once he was sure she was stable, Xavier retrieved a glass of water for her, his movements fluid and efficient. "Here, drink this. It should help," he offered, handing her the glass.

The moment of alarm faded, replaced by the quiet concern in Xavier's eyes. He made a mental note to clear any obstacles from her path in the future, always vigilant in his care for her. "Just take a moment, catch your breath," he advised, watching her closely to ensure she was truly alright.

"Ah...thanks. Didn't see that book there." Now, Thomasin is the one in danger of having her heart coming flying out of her chest. She steps away gingerly, dusting herself off. He was so well-toned and so...ahhhh.

Clearing her throat, she takes the water, thirstier than ever. "Thank you for that."

Xavier nodded, his expression unchanged, a mask of tranquility. "It happens to the best of us," he said, his voice a gentle rumble. "Just glad I was here to catch you."

He watched as she took the water, ensuring she was recovering from the cough and the near fall. Xavier stood by, a silent guardian, always ready to assist but never overbearing. His presence was like a quiet shadow, there when needed and receding when not. "You're welcome, Thomasin," he replied, once she thanked him. "Take your time. There's no rush." Xavier knew the importance of these small moments of care, the way they could fortify the bonds between partners. As she drank, he quietly picked up the book from the floor, placing it safely on the desk, out of the way.

"Whenever you're ready, we can continue our meal," he said, his tone an invitation rather than an expectation. Xavier was patient, understanding that sometimes life—and spice—could take you by surprise.

"So, while I have you here, you can tell me how I'm supposed to get the director off my back about writing a script for a Lumiere/Stellaluna series." Thomasin takes a bit of her food. "First of all, I don't think he can do it. He mainly directs dramas, you know, the soap operas all the old ladies watch without fail during the day and the ones the office ladies watch at night. It's what he's basically known for. This is my third time working with him."

"Anyway, I get why he's trying to capitalize on...you know. Our masked antics are all my colleagues ever talk about. If it's like this in my group chat, it's probably worse everywhere else." Thomasin's eyes widened. "Should we check social media to see what's going on?"

Xavier leaned back slightly, considering her dilemma with a thoughtful gaze. "Navigating the director's expectations can be tricky," he mused. "Especially if his expertise doesn't align with the vision for a Lumiere/Stellaluna series."

He took a bite of his food, chewing slowly as he pondered her situation. "Perhaps suggest a collaboration with someone who has experience in the genre you're aiming for. A partnership could balance his dramatic flair with the action and intrigue a superhero series demands."

At the mention of their masked escapades becoming a hot topic, Xavier's lips quirked in a half-smile. "It's inevitable that people would be drawn to the mystery of Lumiere and Stellaluna," he said. "But remember, social media is a double-edged sword. It can amplify the legend as much as it can distort it."

He paused, considering her next move. "Checking social media might give us insight into the public's perception. It could be useful to understand the narrative they're constructing around us." Xavier's tone was nonchalant, but his eyes held a sharpness—a hunter's awareness of the importance of staying one step ahead of the story being woven about them.

"Let's start with Breddit - that one site where you can talk about all kinds of topics. Surely, we can find something there, right?"

And find things they did. In addition to topics regarding their sightings, they find countless other communities - fan clubs for Lumiere, fan clubs for Stellaluna, and fan clubs shipping the two together. Thomasin knew better than to actually click on the links - there was bound to be a topic, a photo, or an illustration that neither of them would be ready to take in.

"Ah...looks like...we're kind of popular, huh?"

Xavier's eyes scanned the screen, taking in the myriad of posts and discussions that sprawled across Breddit. The sheer volume of attention was a testament to the impact they had made on the city's consciousness. "It seems we've become quite the phenomenon," he acknowledged, his voice a low hum of amusement mixed with a hint of wariness.

He leaned closer, not to read the details, but to gauge the general sentiment. "Popularity can be a fleeting thing," he remarked. "But it appears Lumiere and Stellaluna have struck a chord with the people of this city. They're looking for heroes, and somehow, we've filled that role."

Xavier straightened up, turning to Thomasin with a slight shrug. "We should tread carefully. This kind of attention can be overwhelming, and it's not always positive. But for now, it's clear we're giving them something to believe in."

He offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Let's just focus on what we do best—protecting the city. The rest is just noise." Xavier's demeanor remained calm, a steady presence amidst the storm of public opinion.

"Oh, they're looking for something all right, and I don't think it's just for us to be heroes." Thomasin clicked out of the site. "Fans going to do what fans do, but you're right. I shouldn't put too much thought into it. I think when you're a hero, keeping your sanity in tact is pretty important."

Xavier nodded in agreement, his expression serene yet understanding of the complexities that fame could bring. "Indeed, the line between hero and icon is often blurred by the gaze of the public," he said. "Our true purpose must remain clear amidst the clamor."

He watched as Thomasin closed the site, a silent commendation for her decision to step away from the whirlwind of speculation and adoration. "Sanity is a precious commodity in our line of work," he continued. "We must guard it as fiercely as we do the city."

Xavier's gaze lingered on her for a moment, a silent acknowledgment of the weight they both carried. "Remember, Thomasin, you're not alone in this. We stand together, not just against the darkness, but also against the storm of attention that follows us."

He offered a faint smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes but conveyed his support. "Now, let's finish our meal. We'll need our strength for whatever comes next."

"Well, I have to get back to work on my script, but you are more than welcome to hang out and rest if you like, partner." She smiles at him warmly. "There might be a bag of unopened dried mango slices on the kitchen counter if you'd like a snack later."

"Thank you, Thomasin," Xavier responded, his voice a soft echo in the room. "I might take you up on that offer. The mango slices sound tempting."

He stood up, his movements graceful and unhurried, a quiet force in the space they shared. "I'll be around if you need anything," he assured her, his tone carrying the weight of a promise. "Good luck with your script. I have no doubt it will captivate the audience just as Lumiere and Stellaluna have."

With that, Xavier retreated to a corner of the room, finding solace in the silence that allowed Thomasin to focus on her work. He picked up a book, the pages a familiar comfort, and settled in. Every so often, his gaze lifted from the text to watch over her, a silent guardian ever present, ever watchful.

Thomasin continues to work into the night, Xavier nestled in the corner of the room, quiet as a mouse. It is only when things seem too quiet does she realize that he's fallen asleep. With a smile, she quietly creeps out of the room, grabbing a blanket for him. Carefully, she drapes it over his sleeping form, careful not to disturb him.

"Sleep tight, Xavier," she whispers quietly.

She continues to work on her script, mindful of her draft deadline, approaching in two days. It's nearly two in the morning when she gets a notification on her phone - someone is at her door. The phone doesn't make a sound since it's on silent mode - usually done so she can sleep. Confused, she heads for the door.

"I didn't order any food - who on earth is knocking at this hour? Maybe it's someone who got the wrong apartment."

Tired, she saunters to the door, not in her right mind as she opens the door. "Hello - "

The figure is tall, dark, and menacing - surrounded by black feathers.

Her screams echo throughout her apartment - and then...silence.

Her glasses are on the floor - but the rest of her is nowhere to be found.

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