#is she able to talk to her in dreams? talk in her mindscape?

[ethereance]

Au where post canon Allura gets sent back in time to s1. Or so she thinks at first. But because she has no body in her own reality, her quintessence latches onto the closest alternative the second she can return to the universe. The differences are subtle. But as time progresses they grow more apparent. Her ‘future’ knowledge isn’t quite so handy after all.

[1800dustbunny]

i have more lore ab my GF sona

unsure of her first name but her last name is Digon (look up the meaning of that word lol) she was blessed with prophetic dreams from a higher power that slowly manifested to the point she is able to perceive the mindscape and, more importantly, see bill. she ended up thinking she was insane because of Bill. her eyesight got gradually worse the more her powers manifested. (for context to the art: the doctor is talking about her to Ford behind a two way mirror)

[iihauntedmuffinii]

A Breath of Fresh Air (The Boys Fanfic)

SUMMARY

Daphne Bennett is a psychiatrist for kids in the foster system. She relies on her powers to help her clients unlock their traumas and emotions in a safe space. Unlike most superheroes, her powers come with a price. She is losing control of her body's health and mental state and sadly, her usual tricks aren't working. When the fluctuations in her powers are too painful she decides it's time to try and find a cure. A cure that she thinks resides center focus on The Seven. Through odd circumstances she is placed near the famous superhero team and their loose cannon of a leader, Homelander.

I have a Spotify playlist associated with the story, so if your interested, and don't care about chapter title spoilers I recommend checking it out.

SPOTIFY PLAYLIST:

CHAPTER FOUR: Second Wind

His emotions tumble into me wave after wave and I’m drowning in a memory, lost to the physical realm once again. His mindscape was darkness and nothing else. I was floating amidst the dark waves barely able to keep myself above water.

“Black Noir!” I scream out into the nothingness. The abyss that looked down at me gave me no sign of hearing my pleas. The waves tossed and turned me around, spinning me underneath the depths until I was dizzy. I surface back up, struggling to breathe through the sloshing depths. “Please! Black Noir! Speak to me, Noir!” I scream out into the nothingness once more.

The nothingness doesn’t speak back. It feels like an eternity before a flicker, a sparkle, streaks across the black abyss above me. Memories wash over the sky as if I was watching an old movie in a theater. Sitting in a comfy seat with a bag of popcorn at my side, nice thought, but instead I was drowning in darkness. 

The memories unfold with precise clarity.

“Erving! Erving! Gosh, where are you Erving…” A clear melodic voice yells out across Buster’s Playhouse, the children playing all around her didn’t help the search. Her son is not anywhere to be seen from her perspective. The playhouse setting is exactly what'd you'd expect from a children's playhouse to be. Full of colorful games and mascots that were dancing their own tunes. Cheap pizza and ice-cream cake served at every table. It was a dream location for a child's birthday party. Though for Erving this dream will soon turn into a nightmare.

Erving can hear his mom calling for him. Struggling to find him. When his mom brought Erving to Clint's birthday party--without a direct invitation from said birthday boy, she never thought that would matter. Erving's mom didn't know how cruel children could be. Erving knew the invitation was only given to him because his cousin Benji was invited, and that only made it more awkward for him. He didn’t know anyone but his cousin and the mascots at Buster’s Playhouse. His mom and aunt just wanted shy Erving to break out of his shell.

Erving wanted to introduce himself to the birthday boy, Clint. He was so cool. He had a skateboard and his mom never let him get a skateboard. She always complained about how they were deathtraps on wheels, but Erving just thought his mom's prerogative was to worry about everything . Erving still imagines how cool it would be to be friends with someone who can ride a skateboard. Benji thought he was cool too. Benji talked about Clint all the time and now seeing him in person Erving can see why.

Those happy thoughts of being friends with such a cool kid were bashed into bits the moment he was pinned on the floor of the ball pit by the birthday boy himself.

“Stop! Stop! Please, I can’t breathe!”

“Aww, little baby is going to cry in the baby ball pit!”

His heartbeat grows wild and his breathing slows, time stands still, for little Erving. He feels his body move before his brain can comprehend what’s happening. As if possessed by instinct he grabs the boy's grubby hands and clenches them so tightly he can feel the bones crack beneath the skin. The birthday boy screams so high pitched and full of pain it causes his voice to crack. Erving throws him across the pit and the birthday boy falls head first into a sharp corner of the ledge. His head slams, a resounding crack echoes across the room making Erving go still.

Clint’s body was stuck firmly to the ledge, laying half in the ball pit and half out. His skull fragments and flesh deeply morphed around it. The skin connected to the nape of his neck and head was visibly peeled open, layers of folded skin revealing a gaping bloody hole within. The blood was pooling over, spitting sporadically and splashing wildly covering walls, the colorful ball pit slowly turning a dark shade of red. A blink and the entire room turns the same shade of disgusting red .

Erving’s eyes grow wide and he finally feels like he’s regained his breath. His irises’ blow out  and his nostrils flare, but he makes not a single sound. His instincts take hold of him and he scrambles out of the ball pit and up the twisting red slide. He slips over and over as he climbs up the winding slides, leaving blood smears in his path.

He doesn’t know how but he’s made it to the far back of the tunnels where the window attached to the tube system was. It showcased all of the cast from Buster’s Playhouse. He couldn’t focus on any of those details at this frozen moment in time. He tightly put himself into the fetal position, trying to become as small as possible.

“I’m okay, I’m okay, everything is okay…” Big fat teardrops stream down his face without Erving’s consent. His tiny hands grip his knobby knees so tightly his knuckles grow pale. The blood spackled across his body sang to him. Reminding him of what he’s done. What Erving didn’t know was that it was about to get a whole lot worse.

“It’s okay, Erving. You didn’t mean to hurt Clint. You were just trying to protect yourself.” The recognizable and boisterous voice from the iconic titular character Buster spoke. The voice sounded like it came from right beside him, but as he looked around no one was there. But that wasn’t completely true.

There was a highly detailed mural framed by the window connected to the slide tunnel, and the mural was a cute depiction of Buster with all of his pals. Erving blinked past his tears and stared hard at the mural, not looking away for even a second. Not even when he heard the screams of people down below. Someone found Clint.

“It’s okay Erving, we know you didn’t want to hurt Clint.” Buster’s voice was more clear this time. Looking now straight at the mural he could see that Buster’s mouth was moving. “We all know you wouldn’t do harm to anyone on purpose.” The cartoon character, Buster and all of his animal friends nodded along with that statement. Erving eyes turn into saucers and his mouth drops open not able to hold in his gasp.

“R-Really?” Erving's tears stop as he gently touches the window. Blood smears across it blurring the mural's visage.

“Erving, you're a nice and funny kid. You wouldn’t hurt anyone, would you?” Buster asks him with cheer and happiness radiating from the mural.

“No! No, I didn’t mean to…” His head is shaking back and forth, his tight knuckle grip does not relent.

“There, there Erving. We're here for you no matter what. That's what friends are for, right?”

“We a-are f-friends?”

“Of course!” This time all of the voices of Buster’s Playhouse joined in. The mural was still, and what Erving imagined to be moving wasn’t anymore.

“Erving! Erving, where are you?” His mother’s voice pierced through his skull with striking clarity. Looking through the window he had the perfect vantage point to see the chaos unraveling below him. Because of him.

Parents were running out with their children and others were screaming at employees. A police officer was already on the scene, and it looked like he wasn’t the only one now patrolling. His mother was in the center of it all. She had tears streaming down her face and she was clutching Erving’s bright red baseball cap, it was her only life line. 

He knew what would happen when she figures it out. She would hate him. She would send him away and never talk to him again. That’s exactly what would happen. He was sure of it, and sadly, he was right.

He was found frozen in the slides by one cop, and the blood all over him gave them enough to know what happened. A kid who developed powers and killed another kid by accident. A horrible tragedy that was becoming more frequent these days. Sadly, Erving being black didn’t help his case when the authorities decided he was a public danger if untrained. So, he was to be separated from his family and shipped off to be trained by his sensei.

And he started his career as Black Noir off of the tragedy that was Clint’s murder. The black water washes over me but I can still breathe. My eyes open slowly and all I see is Black Noir.

Are you okay?

“I’ll be fine.” The coughing fits begin and the rattling of my lungs makes breathing feel like I’m being electrocuted from the inside. The blood spills out of my mouth before I can reach for my handkerchief. I lift half my body upright, ignoring the dizzy spell as I reach for my purse. I focus all my energy on finding my medication. I weakly grab the now almost empty bottle laying in an interior purse pocket and pop a pill into my mouth swallowing it dry. “Now, would you like me to call you by your given name or by your superhero title?” I refocus on Black Noir, needing to concentrate on anything but myself. 

He doesn’t answer at first, instead he reaches slowly into my purse, and hands me my handkerchief. I take it numbly, not knowing how to quite fathom or respond to the kind gesture. I hold it dumbly in my hand, not moving to clean my face. He grabs it from me, making me flinch in surprise. He wipes my face with light sweet touches, I could barely fathom how strongly his aura oozed patience. Finishing his cleanup he hands me back the handkerchief placing it delicately in my lap. It was soaked in blood.

You can call me Erving.

“R-right, Erving, I’m sorry about this.” I groan out pathetically, an ache that has been slowly healing is back in full force. I needed to stop getting myself into these situations.

Why are you sorry? You were only trying to help.

“No Erving, I shouldn’t have invaded your mindscape, at least not without permission first! I could have hurt you or myself in the process. I don’t know how…” I couldn’t finish my word vomit before Erving interrupted that train of thought.

No! You didn’t do it on purpose. And I wanted you to see it. What happened right now only makes me more determined to go to therapy. I want to be better.

“R-really? I-I mean that’s great! I just didn’t know how’d you feel…” I move one step forward on wobbly legs like a freshly birthed foal. Black Noir, like a gentleman, grabs my arm and helps to steady me. Someone so isolated is now touching me and showing me attention in a public setting. That feels poignant. A show of trust that was rarely given out by Black Noir.

It was something to treat with utmost care. It's important to nurture rather than stifle these connections and I think  Vought covets to destroy these type of healthy relationships. Not on my watch, not anymore. Black Noir–No Erving, was going to have a friend, a connection no matter what. That’s a promise I will make to myself. He holds my arm with such care, as if he was caressing a baby bird’s broken wing. His gentleness contrasted heavily with his dark figure and intimidating costume. But his bright sparkling aura gave his sweetness away.

I-I hope I didn’t scare you.

“You’d never scare me, Erving.” I whisper back, as quick as a cheetah on the hunt, not wanting him to fret for a second. We were in the elevator within a blur of people and time. Nothing quite felt real, and my powers felt off somehow. It felt muted almost. My extra dosage of medication plus overextending myself has made my powers fire back some odd side effects.

Good, that’s good. I scare most people.

“I know, Erving. You don’t have to explain if you don’t want to.” I squeeze his supporting arm trying to bring as much warmth as I could into a single touch. His aura flares to life, content with the invasion of my powers.

The elevator finally dings on the 99th floor and we slowly head to my office taking one step at a time.  Passing the masterful portraits was intimidating every time, but the marble busts’ gave me goosebumps.

What you saw in my head was exactly how I remembered it, if not clearer.

“Before you ask, I don’t know how I did that, not exactly at least. I’ve only done it a few times and they have all been accidents.” 

I haven’t remembered that time for so long. I think you somehow unlocked that within me. You are the key to remembering myself.

“I want you to be comfortable and safe when we talk about these things. But that means we can’t do the mindscape nonsense again until I can fully control my powers. I don’t want to hurt anyone.” I whisper the last bit more to myself. I shouldn’t have said it at all.

I believe in you.

I stop dead in my tracks, not before fully turning the knob to open the door of my office.

“Really?” The hope dripping from my voice and my eyes didn’t leave his figure for even a second.

I believe in you and nobody, not even you, can change my mind.

“Seems like you have more faith in me than, well, me.” I shrug, self depreciation seeping from my voice. Opening the door to my office in full cheer after Black Noir’s assurance I see Ashley waiting, sitting ramrod straight on the luscious couch. My good mood was dashed at the sight.

“What were you thinking promising those funds for—” Ashley pauses mid rant, her mouth gaping wide like a fish out of water. “Black Noir! Ah, I mean Daphne, why didn’t you tell me you were accompanied by the esteemed Black Noir?” Ashley asks, her tone dripping with venom. Trying to peddle back her planned scream session, I’m sure. Who knew toting around a member of The Seven would come in handy. Strike that from the record brain–do not use the client’s status to get Ashley off your back. That would be selfish of me, but tempting.

“He was just being a gentleman and escorting me back to my office. He also agreed to schedule a session with me,” I elbow Black Noir in the gut not caring if Ashley was staring. “Didn’t you, Black Noir?” I give him one more pointy shove. He nodded aggressively in Ashely’s direction. Her mouth opens and closes over and over for at least a minute.

“Well, okay. I will see you bright and early tomorrow Mrs. Bennett.” She grinds out, just barely able to hold herself together. Her aura flashes red in anger and the embers and sparks flared to life like a wild fire. The taste of burnt toast took over my senses making me wince in disgust. She scampers out of my office as if staying any longer would give her a rash.

“That went better with you around. Thanks!” I place my hand gently on his.  I also wait for any indicator of him not wanting physical contact. He grips my hand tightly back, a sense of yearning for familiarity throbs within him. His strong emotional response flares his usually quiet soul back to life. The stars within his aura twinkles and dances so brightly it makes my head spin.

Anything to help. He gives my hand an awkward pat, not used to giving out affection, before closing the office door behind him. He tries to discreetly check the perimeters without me noticing. Always on high alert, it seems. 

“I knew you’d be a helper. We need to schedule an appointment for you. I didn’t just say that just to get Ashley to drop her mouth on the floor.” I ran over to my planner at my abrasive desk. I grab my inkwell and pen looking back at Noir, who hasn’t moved a muscle since closing the door. “Erving, you can choose whatever time you need. You get first dibs by the way! No one else has set one up yet…” I stammer off, a bright red flush taking over my face for the oversharing. 

Would Friday morning at 8am work? I have to go on a recon mission tomorrow, so I want to push it back to the end of the week.

“If you need to, we can always schedule it on the weekend. My schedule centers around you guys, not the other way around.” I want everyone to know that I’m serious about helping. It seems it’ll be difficult to convince anyone around here of that, other than Erving.

No, I would like Friday morning. 

“Alright, I’ve penned you in and now your first official session is scheduled.” I couldn’t help but cheerfully sing those words. It almost felt like a miracle.

It's late. I should take you home.

“Oh, you don’t have to do that, Erving! I don’t even live that far from Vought.” I huff a stray curl out of my face as I hurriedly grab my bag and papers from my desk, readying myself to leave. As I scramble around the office, tidying up before leaving, I look up to Erving holding out his arm. Waiting for me patiently, still and silent like a statue. I sight before relenting and grabbing his arm, squeezing it tight, I gently steer him outside my office and towards the elevator.

Entering the lobby with Black Noir on my arms feels rather odd. The few warry employees and random stragglers there also seemed to think it was odd, giving us a wide berth. I can feel all their eyes on us as we slowly walk out of the building, it has the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. 

I call for a Taxi ignoring people walking past us with their phones out, not caring to ask for permission to get a photo. People walking by stopped abruptly gawking at the dark shadow standing behind me. I quickly–comically shove Black Noir into the Taxi before we cause an accident from the public spectacle. 

“Where to?” I give him my address and he floors it ignoring the both of us, like a true professional. 

You are uncomfortable.

“I’m not adapting very well to the new job requirements, I guess. You know, all the attention and publicity really isn’t my thing.” I begin to aggressively scratch at my arm as I try to get the goosebumps to go away. 

Understandable. It’s something I always wanted, I think. I can feel it almost. Like I wanted to be seen.

“Do you remember that feeling coming from somewhere specific?” I ask quickly, jumping at the opportunity to discuss his improving mental status. Maybe jarring his root memory helped him unlock parts of his brain he couldn’t previously see before. That's at least one theory. The taxi driver coughs loudly interrupting what seems like a crazy conversation to an intimidating, silent shadow. My face turns bright tomato red.

“Um, you’ve arrived.” The cabbie coughs out gruffly. 

“Thank you!” I give him a large tip and push Erving out of the cab as if he couldn’t get out by himself. On the sidewalk outside the entrance of my building Erving gives me his arm again. We intwine arms like the Wizard of Oz crew-minus the other two and walk up to my floor. Luckily for me it was empty of any prying eyes. The neighbors were either at home asleep or out partying, or maybe doing something illegal. The safest neighborhood it is not, my wrecked furniture and stolen Bose can attest to that. 

Entering my apartment felt like entering the heavens. I’m finally home. I’m sleeping in my bed and taking a shower. I only dropped by quickly to grab some stuff and clean my ruined apartment, but I haven’t been able to sleep at home since I’ve been kidnapped. Two and half weeks ago. It feels longer.

I sigh dreamily, not able to hold it in. I’m just happy to be home.

I turn the switch and my string lights light up the room with a warm glow. The lights intertwine with the plants inside the mason jars, which were repaired and now strung up across my ceiling. The ragged and torn curtains are now replaced with new brightly colored orange drapes. My ruined rugs were now replaced with expensive knitted material of  military green shade. Where the stolen TV was now a fancy new projector screen paired with an already installed projector resides. To put the cherry on top of this Trading Spaces miracle is a large L shaped tangerine colored couch. The couch was flush against the wall of the open floor plan, sitting directly across the projector screen.

I gasp out feeling my heart speed to an unstable pace. From the entrance way I could see a little folded card and a vase of white roses on my kitchen counter. I drop Erving’s arm running to the card not able to focus on anything but the note.

Dear Daph,

Your Father and I have been worried about you and visited your apartment last night. You weren't there, your father and I decided it would be best to check in and we used your extra key. Your Father suggested it! To my astonishment your apartment was a mess. Almost all of your belongings were gone! Did you know about this?!  We knew this area was difficult but we didn’t know it was outright dangerous. 

We did not think further on it and we installed locks and extra security measures for your protection. I thought it would be nice to replace your old belongings as well, we know you have a lot on your plate right now. So, one less thing for you to worry about. But we would prefer if you moved somewhere safer, or just come back home, that's an idea! 

No, wait, sorry! You're an adult; I forget sometimes. Before I write on and on and on I wanted you to know you can always call us. We are always here when you need us and even when you don’t.

Love,

Your Parents

There behind the vase was a bottle of blue pills. Thank goodness, I have been needing a replacement. All of the worries I had resting in the back of my head now were lifted, all thanks to my meddling, caring parents. 

Your place is very inviting. Once we got past the scary stairwell and your eerily silent neighbors. But your apartment is different…more ‘warm.’ I jump in the air forgetting Erving was there, he is standing still as stone not moving an inch from the entrance. 

“Thank you for walking me home, Erving.” I walk across the apartment and stand in front of his silent figure.

I’m glad I did. If I’d known your neighborhood was full of so much crime I would have brought along some security measures. Your alarm system won’t cut it for serious threats.

“Well that’s reassuring. I’m just grateful I have any security at this point. I’m sorry, now I have to kick you out for my own health. I’m desperate for a shower and sleep.” I ramble on, faltering to a stop as Erving shakes his head.

Have a good night Dr. Bennett. 

“You can call me Daphne if you want. Whichever you prefer.” I yap at his back on his way out, he stops, still and silent to the outside world.

Okay, I’ll see you Friday Daphne.

“Goodnight Erving.” I whisper back before he fully makes his exit, he was here and now he’s gone. If someone was listening on the other side of the wall they would think I was talking to myself.

I jumped at my opportunity in what felt like a long time to unwind. I run to the bathroom stripping myself from my clothes and jump into the shower. I needed to scrub the stress sweat away and sense of dread that Vought Corp emits, like a foul stench. 

After turning into a prune from my well earned hot shower I put on my comfy pajama set that was much too large for my small frame. Just how I liked it. The pajama set is a pale pink shade and is fluffy all over. I lazily get out of the steamy bathroom and make a bag of extra butter popcorn. I finally have a chance to look at all of my social media, and it is as I expected. Flooded with messages and followers by the thousands. All from that brief interview, no doubt. I turn my phone back off. Maybe I shouldn’t have looked.

As the microwave does its magic I start to play with my brand new projector. All the streaming services were automatically set up with my accounts, thank god. I put on an old favorite my Dad and I watch every summer together. Red Thunder , a film the Payback crew performed in 1983. Classic cheesy American propaganda at its cheesy gooiest.

I run to my room to grab my large fuzzy pink blanket, wrapping it around myself to keep the night chill away. Grabbing a large glass bowl and throw in my buttery popcorn to munch on for the movie. A breeze chills my back, probably from my open sliding door that connects to the tiny terrace. I need to close it before the temperature drops to freezing.

“Am I interrupting anything?”  I scream automatically dropping my bowl of popcorn, it cracks and shatters on impact and popcorn flies everywhere. I’ll be finding popcorn for months with the way it splattered in every direction. Now I have to deal with bugs! Speaking of nuisances.

“You can’t just barge into my home without asking for permission first. Not even a text? I thought you of all the Superheroes would have some sense of decorum!” I admonished without restraint, my no-nonsense tone clear, not surprised at all really that he would do this. He definitely has an issue with boundaries, honestly I think he loves pushing people to their limits.

“You never gave me your personal number.” He chuckles through his sardonic words, a smirk twist at his lips. He takes confident strides to a whole new level as he glides through my apartment. Each step was accompanied with a poignant and loud crunch, the popcorn now worse off. “Can’t fix everything with a nice shiny coating.” He whistles out as he gives my apartment a derisive once over. 

His eyes were sharp as he took in the surroundings, readying himself for an attack, like a predator on edge. I don’t take my eyes off him, and he finally decides to acknowledge my presence. He gives me this scowl, this dark judgmental look that would strike me to my core if I wasn't such a self assured person. It was a stare that quaked no arguments and it told me he didn't approve.   

“I see you can relate to that.” The insinuation was not lost on me, I would have to be an idiot to not see the insult. I’m not taking the bait, no matter how much he wants me to. He lazily lounges on my couch taking up all of the space by stretching himself across it. His aura was bursting and sparkling with confidence but the red tumultuous sand continues to turn and weave around him. It was so cutting and complex and it felt painful. His eyes don't leave me for a second as I slowly approach him, as if he was a starving mad dog. 

“I’m sorry for not giving you my personal number, here.” I quickly write my number on a sticky note and push it into his hands. He looks stricken, and then like a balloon that has been released, deflates into my couch. That looks of defeat is bashed after a moment and he is suddenly on high alert again. All in a few seconds. His back is ramrod straight and his confident lounging is no more. His glare is as powerful as it was just a moment ago, and instead of provoking him I do something he doesn’t expect.

I turn away from the predator, give him my back and I try to dismiss that he's dangerous. I focus on my breathing while I stroll to my microwave to grab a bag of extra butter popcorn. Slow and steady steps across the kitchen tile.

“If you want you can join me! I just turned on Red Thunder . Do you like that movie?” I put the bag of popcorn in the microwave and let the miracle of modern tech work its thing. I finally look back at Homelander who I left stricken and stuck to the couch.

“ Red Thunder ? Aren’t you a little young to have seen that?” His grumbling revitalizes something that wasn’t there before. The usual angry red aura that clung to him faded to a paler shade for a flicker of moment and stills. The rumbling storm that was his soul quiets to just a murmur. 

“All because I’m not as old as you doesn’t mean I don’t have good taste. I know a classic when I see it. Also, this is a childhood favorite of mine!” The microwave dings at my passionate declaration and I hurriedly grab the fresh popcorn. I choose to completely avoid the mess that was currently on the floor. This time I’m using a plastic bowl too.

Homelander hasn’t moved from the couch, and he didn’t look like he was getting ready to leave. So I’m taking that as some form of reassurance that he wants to be here. In some way or form. Or maybe he’s trying to figure me out by provoking me on my home turf?

“Mine too.” 

The silence between us was not comfortable, but the movie helped. Then at my favorite moment I couldn’t stop myself from bursting out into a full on accent.

“At last, the famous American hero, Soldier Boy. You don't seem like much of a hero to me.” I quote in time with the movie, in a very bad Russian accent, mimicking the Soviet commander’s mannerisms. 

“You wouldn't know a hero if they walked in here and blasted you in the face.” I quote back to myself, giving Homelander a real show. All the weirdness now out in the open. He shouldn��t be here in my apartment in the first place, so no point in getting embarrassed. His body is trembling? I'd bet he's shaking in frustration from my bad performance. I fully commit to the bit now embracing the possibility that just maybe Homelander was laughing at my antics.

“My name is Colonel Yuri Valisivich Kasimov, commander of Soviet forces in this sector. Where will the American weapons be delivered to the Afghan rebels?” My Russian accent has evolved into a derivative and thicker parody of itself. 

That did it. Homelander spiels out in a low timbre of soft chortles. My serious expression and stiff stance falters. I can’t help but stare, eyes bug-eyed wide, in awe. His bright red dust devil of an aura clouded above his head lifts completely, for just one second. The aura shines, shimmers like an emerald, and the green color is so rich I feel lost inside a forest. The smell of fresh pine hints at something I can’t remember. Neither can he, I think. His bright smile transforms into a strained and forced grimace, trying to hide his authentic response.

“You weren’t kidding when you said it's your favorite movie.” He grumbles, crossing his arms and settling further into the corner of my couch placing his feet on top of my new coffee table. I offer him my bowl of popcorn, choosing to ignore his dark scowl. His furrowed brow and tight frown doesn’t waver as he grabs a handful of my delicious buttery popcorn.

“I told you!” I throw one into my mouth without missing. Homelander’s eyes widens a fraction and stares admittedly a second longer than what would be considered appropriate. Before he can say something rude I tune back into the film. “One man against the entire Soviet army. Who do you think you are? God?” My Russian guard caricature was full blown nasal silliness.

“No. God would have mercy. I won't.” Homelander replies through tight closed lips. Unable to stop himself it seems. His usual warm cinnamon flavor of control is now replaced by a bright citrus sweetness that feels happy. On instinct my powers control my body and I’m invading his personal space on the couch. I don’t notice I’m extremely close until his shadow feels like it can swallow me whole. His intense attention now focuses in on me. “Don’t look at me like that.” He grunts not giving me an inch as he stared down at me with derision.

“Looking at you like what?” I sit back quickly, feeling intrusive the more contemptuous his glare grows. His body is stiff ramrod straight again, like he’s back on the press junket and not sitting on my couch watching Red Thunder . 

“There’s no one that understands my struggle. They only think I’m something to be controlled…like you.” He’s now muttering something under his breath but I can’t quite grasp it. His pupils are blown wide and I can feel he’s not here anymore, but deep inside his own head.

“I don’t think that about you.”  I mimic his stance, going ramrod straight, puffing out my chest and tucking my chin in. Staring directly into his vacant eyes as I repeat, “I don’t think that about you. Whoever makes you think that way, yourself or someone else, they're wrong.” I ignore my better judgment on not touching a client without explicit consent and grab both his shoulders. I grip him tight with my bony fingers, forcing him to meet me head on. “I’m on your side.”

A sigh that was trapped deep inside his chasm of a soul releases and his stormy aura flares and shimmers, like it was taking its first breath after holding it for too long. His expression doesn’t give as much away. Still as a marble statue, like he was carved into my couch, but then he blinks.

“Shut up, I’m watching the movie.” He grumbles, and takes my blanket too, just to rub salt in the wound. He’s eating my bowl of popcorn now wrapped tightly in my large fluffy pink blanket. I sneakily put my feet under the little bit of the blanket he isn't hogging and we watch the movie in companionable silence. I snuggle further into the new couch enjoying the pleasant sound of action movie explosions and cheesy one liners lulling me to sleep. 

I woke up with a start, hyperventilating and my heart pounding loudly in my ear, a rhythm that haunts me. The memories of running through a rainforest, the rain beating down on her skin, or was it his skin? The feelings of fear when a large black panther struck Black Noir by surprise and the rush of adrenalin and joy after a victory streamed through my blood like a warm embrace.

His fresh memories of his past were so visceral and survivalist centered. I have nothing to compare it to in my own life, and it all felt so raw . I don’t think entering his mindscape was the best idea, considering all of the side effects that come with it. The roller coaster ride of emotions and memories tumbling like a few loose bolts inside my aching head is the worst part.

Finally taking a real deep breath I take in my surroundings. My blanket sits comfortably on top of my lap and there is no Homelander in sight. No proof of last night other than my memories. The pounding headache throbs at the front of my forehead, reminding me to take my medication before I start the day. I jump from my couch, leaving my projector on as it drones about the local news. 

I stop mid step to see the popcorn and shattered bowl still lay amuck all over my floor. Well, that’s proof of last night.

I jump over the mess pointedly ignoring the obvious hazard on my floor. I grab a bowl, milk, and cheerios as I pop a blue pill dry down my throat. I top it down by throwing a cup of black coffee into my cereal. Olivia calls me down right diabolical for doing this. I just think it cuts the middle man. I bring my bowl to the couch turning up the volume as the news anchors drones on.

“Breaking News has just been released this morning. A whistleblower inside Vought Corporations has documented proof that Superheroes are not born, but made. Vought has made a drug known as Compound-V, which they inject into infants –” The ringing in my ear is so loud I feel like I lost my hearing. The NNC anchor drones on more, and journalists around the panel join in the conversation on occasion.

“Vought needs to come out with a statement!” A reporter is screaming their head off, and others from all sides of the screen are critiquing Vought to some capacity. My body trembles and my cheerios grow soggy. I continue to stare blankly at my Tiffany blue bowl. 

“H-How is this possible?” All my limbs feel numb and cold like I’ve been stuck under cold running water for hours. 

“Guardians have to give permission to have their children undergo this pharmaceutical trial. There are also gag orders involved from what’s implied in the whistleblower’s statement.” The terrifying piece of information felt like I swallowed dark ice shards and the information was stabbing me from the inside. This coldness feels like a bubbling brew of poison inside my stomach, just waiting to burst and froth out of my mouth.  It was too much to bear. I turn the projector off. The apartment is eerily silent.

The buzzing of my phone was loud and shocking in the empty silence. My phone’s sudden vibrating and ringing jingle alert went off for a minute straight without showing any signs of stopping. Finally, I force myself up off the couch and grab my phone from my bag.

Ashley Barrett

Of course. “Yes?”

“You’ve heard about the leak.”

“Yes, I did–”

“Good, I’m required to give you the day off for a ‘mental health’ recovery day,” I can hear her muffled guffaw before continuing. “to recover from this recent information. But, since you are our resident mental health expert I want you to check in on The Seven. Make sure to at least get me a verbal confirmation they’ll be at their scheduled media circuit tomorrow. Remind them they must keep their lines of communication open for Mr. Stan Edgar, if he chooses to address them. Did you get all that?” A mixture of strain and condescension mingling in her vocal cords like the beat of an annoying drum. I swallow the bile rising from my throat and rub the tears out of my bloodshot eyes.

“Y-yes, of course, I’ll call them all right away.” 

“Good, give me a report by the end of the day.” She hangs up before any more words can be exchanged. Breathe, just breathe. I shakily dial the first number I put in my phone, Homelander and call him. I get the dial tone three times before I give up and leave a voicemail simply inquiring about his well being. I thought maybe that bonding moment last night would foster something friendly, but maybe not.

Next I call Erving–labeled as Black Noir in my phone’s contacts. He doesn’t pick up. Damn, was he going out on a retcon mission the night before? He didn’t specify when he was going just when he would be back. Ugh, I knew this would be fruitless but I call Stormfront. 

“Hello, this is Stormfront’s assistant Tammy. How can I help you?” A dull monotone voice I assume to be female actually answered.

“This isn’t Stormfront’s personal number?”

“No, this is Stormfront’s main line if you want to schedule an appointment with her, if it fits in her already very busy schedule.” She says through a bland nasally accent I couldn’t decipher. 

“Ah, well tell her Dr. Bennett called to check in on her. I want her to know if she needs anything or a time to talk–”

“Got it. I will tell her the therapist called to ask about scheduling a counseling appointment.” 

“Don’t you know her schedule? We can workout a–”

“Thank you Dr. Bennett but I have to run all the call-ins by Stormfront. I will contact you again if Stormfront agrees to an appointment.” The audacity of this stonewall of a woman.

“Stormfront told me she wants to schedule—”

“I will tell her about you calling, okay. She will choose to move forward how she likes from there. Have a good day!”

“But–” The dial tone replies back to my weak plea. How pathetic. Stormfront seems to be thinking she can get herself out of therapy by steamrolling me with her team of interns. Well, I’ll find a way. 

I call Queen Maeve next and it goes straight to voicemail. Not surprising. I call A-Train and I’m hung up on in the middle of a ring. I call again and the pattern repeats. These people are more opposed to therapy than cats are to a running bath. Somethings gotta give. I call Starlight, my last hope.

“This is Annie.” 

“Hi, Annie it’s Daphne or Dr. Bennett if you’d prefer.” I clear my throat pushing through any of my ingrained apprehension for forcing therapy. “I’m checking in on everyone. After the recent news, a lot of people who have powers may need a person to talk about such a life changing revelation.”

“You have powers too, Daphne. The news came out only a few hours ago and you're calling us to see how we feel? How can you possibly ask us when you probably don’t even know how you feel!” 

“Y-your right I called at a bad time. I’m so sorry. Please, call me if you need–”

“No, I’m sorry Daphne. I didn’t mean to snap and you're right it's just a bad time right now.” She’s quiet but firm in her interruption. 

“No, no, it’s my fault for not thinking about how hard this could be for all of you. I should have at least worded it more tactfully.” 

“No! Daphne, you have powers too and I shouldn’t have snapped at you. You're just doing your job. I'm sorry for my outburst. I think I would like to schedule an appointment, actually.” She softly whispers that last part, sounding like she could hang up any moment if I didn’t word this exactly right.

“When would you be able to come in?”

“Next week will be great. Monday morning at 9am would fit my current schedule. If anything changes I’ll let you know.”

“Thank you, please take time for yourself when you can.” I hung up the phone hoping she took my words to heart. Her reminding me of being just as much a part of the people that may need to talk to someone about this–I instead ignore that agonizing thought and keep moving. I move without full control looking over my large portfolio of contacts. I landed on one name I haven’t seen in a long time. My body presses it without my mind letting me second guess.

“Hello?” A shy sweet voice, sounding raspy as if it hasn’t been used often comes from the line.

“Hi, Marie. I know I haven’t called in a while, but with the recent news out I wanted to check in on you.”

“You call me on all my birthdays and send me cards for every Holiday. You do more for me than most adults around here ever do.” Her muttering voice fills with disdain when talking about the Red River Institute, which is valid. I don’t only think that because I was laid off based on budget cuts. There are many factors in why I don’t like the Red River Institute. 

“Well, I think we need to sit and talk in person for once. How about it, kid?”

“As long as you promise me you won’t call me kid.”

“Okay, fine. They grow up so fast. I’ll pick you up and we can take the subway together.”

“Daph, I can meet you at the restaurant without you chaperoning me.”

“Right, right.”

“So, where do you want to go?”

“A Jitter Bean coffee and breakfast sandwich sounds amazing right now.”

“I can go for a coffee.” Marie’s noncommittal affect is still her usual tone of choice.

“Are you free now? We can get brunch before the lunch rush takes all the good seats. The Jitter Bean not too far from the institute would be better for you, right?”

“We can go to any Jitter Bean you’d like. I don’t mind. The Institute doesn’t care how long I’m out. The curriculum around here isn’t strict–they care more about our nightly curfews anyway.”

“Right, I forgot about their strict evening curfew. Let's meet up in thirty then.”

“Alright, see you there.” I hang up the phone and hurry to get ready. I choose to ignore the messages and calls coming from my phone–unless it was work related. Family and Olivia were something I was going to deal with later. 

I throw on a basic white blouse and sheer eggshell colored cardigan to layer on top. My form fitting blue jeans and mauve flats were all I had the remaining energy to pair my top with. Anything else would be too much for me today. I put my hair up in a pink scrunchie to get my messy curls out of my face and I quickly grab my bag before vaulting out the door.

I’m back out in the thrumming city. The crowds of blurring emotions filtering through me felt exhilarating. And horrible. The strong jumble of emotions that were impossible to decipher left a muddy sour film on top of my tongue. The blood rush giving me a quick high also left me winded and light headed. This all struck my body within a few seconds. I stumble leaning outside my apartment building, trying to catch my breath. Cold sweat ran down my brow and I could feel my bouncy curls fizz out from the humidity. Taking a deep breath I call for a cab and the ride there is peaceful. 

My phone buzzed and my family's name flashes on my screen over and over again. I ignore them. I need space before I can even think about talking with mom and dad. The texts from Olivia were only growing by the hour. A decent pace for Olivia. I just don’t know how to talk to Olivia about my powers at all. I barely told her about them yesterday, and now I’m supposed to feel comfortable talking to her about this ? I need space from all of them to think.

“We’re here m’am.” The cab driver piped up cheerfully, not sounding annoyed at all, for once.

“So sorry.” I whisper out desperate to just be away from the small space. I scramble out of the cab and see an old Jitter Box I haven’t been to in years. Not since my first job in the foster system–involving kids who have powers and criminal-records. The idea of a kid with powers at some point discovering my secret was a worry I had every day. The job was also grinding in every sense of the word.

The amount of children that end up in even worse situations was very high, and the statistics haven't changed. It would be amazing if they were given a chance to integrate into society, rather than be imprisoned. It still makes my blood boil thinking of the psych department being one of the first to be eliminated for budget cuts. My internship was out the window and I had to start somewhere brand new. It was also difficult leaving a lot of my patients. 

Marie was always one of my favorites, and has so much potential to do great things. Her lack of faith in my field also always gave me a kick in the butt to try and help her. She is an abstinent one though, that’s for sure.

The more decrepit version of the Jitter Box from my memories seats an older Marie sipping on a cup of black coffee. She sat at a booth at the front with a nice window view. Seeing her in person after all these years feels like I'm traveling back in the past. Seeing her mature growing self in contrast to my memories of the brave preteen has me choking back tears. I quickly wipe them away with my sheer sleeve and push myself to go inside. No one was inside but the cashier, the cook flipping burgers in the back and Marie at a booth. When she sees me enter she waves at me awkwardly as if unsure on how to socially participate at all. Has she grown shier since I last saw her? Her maroon silk like aura that wrapped around her like an ever twisting ribbon was bouncy as ever. Her aura was unique in the way it moved and swayed, but stayed consistent like Marie herself. She is not so withdrawn as to hide her aura, yet.

I throw my arms around her, giving her as much of a bear hug as I can pull off. She holds her breath and her maroon ribbon aura tightens taut around her as if to shield her from my touch. I pull back quickly not wanting to push it.

“How’ve you been Marie?” I ask as I slide into the opposite seat. Her shy smile turns wide and sharp.

“How bout you tell me about your powers first and then we talk about me, hm?” Marie sips her black coffee, looking very pleased by flipping the tables on me.

“Ah right. Guess I couldn't get past that question. Ah, well, I’ve been keeping my powers secret since I was a child. Ever since my powers manifested when I hit puberty they were difficult to understand. My lack of understanding and control eventually led to an accident. That incident cost my family a lot and they had to cover for me in order for us to keep away from the authorities. Luckily, after the incident my family was able to help me control my powers and how to hide them from the public. Nothing more dramatic than that. I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you before.” I drop my eyes to the floor, twisting my hands together repeatedly. Anything but looking Marie directly in the eyes. 

“I would have done the same thing if I was in your shoes.” A sigh of relief leaves my lips before I can hold it back. Marie chuckles at my obviousness. “I can’t believe you got away with it for so long. You're a terrible liar.”

“I know. I'm impressed with myself if I'm being honest.” I shrug. "So, how has the news affected you?” I ask without restraint, not wanting to divulge any more about my own past.

“It hasn’t affected me.” Marie sips her black coffee, she’s as unflappable as ever.

“The concept of us being made, rather than born hasn’t changed your perspective on anything ? Not your powers? Your parents? Nothing?” I continue to press waiting for any sign of a facial reaction. She was cold, still looking unbothered, and a little bored.

“My goal hasn’t changed.”

“I didn’t ask you if your goal has changed, I asked if the news changed how you felt about anything. Has it?” 

“I don’t feel any differently, like I told you. How does it feel being a part of The Seven? Can you write me a recommendation letter for university?” 

“Of course. You still aiming for Godolkin University, right?” I ask, letting her change the subject.

“I need a full ride to make this at all possible. A recommendation from someone working with The Seven could go a long way.”

“Don’t worry Marie, I'll write you a recommendation letter that will knock the socks off of that admissions office.”

“Thanks, Daph. That means a lot. Now tell me all about being in The Seven. ” She whispers the last part as if scared the empty Jitter Bean was filled with nosy people. I sigh loudly before adding a groan in there too. Marie’s laugh is barely held in by her hands, trying to cover her giggles. The waitress interrupts us, stepping up to our table in a cute blue dress uniform. 

“How can I help you girls?” A thick accent, Jersey if I had to guess, and hips swaggering with every word.

“I would like a black coffee with a bacon egg and cheese crescent, please.” I pipe up quickly wanting that sweet beautiful breakfast sandwich as quickly as possible. The waitress’s dark orange aura fluttered in annoyance at my quick tone. She writes that down with a muttered assurance, waiting and staring pointedly at Marie.

“Could you turn the volume up?” Marie asks, her sharp eyes now focused on the TV in the corner of the small cafe. The waitress sighs loudly before doing so. CNN channel has been non stop filtering through journalists across all sources wanting Vought’s head on spike for the recent revelation. I mean that’s bad press no matter how you look at it. Oddly though CNN wasn’t talking about Superheroes being made not born.

They instead had live footage center focus at a beach. A beach not too far from where we were now. The exploded whale on the beach was a new and horrifying sight I didn't think I'd see in the daily news. 

“Oh my god.” I mutter out gasping at the helicopter debris shown floating in the ocean. Three men confirmed dead from the terrorist attack.

“The attack is being led by a member of the Shining Light Liberation Army. He has destroyed whole city blocks with his telekinesis and has five identified murders attached to his profile. He is wanted on all accounts, and from our current reports The Seven has officially entered the scene.” The blonde news anchor with a deep soothing voice reported over the live footage. The Seven arrive in a dramatic style, all together like an actual team. All the infighting was not visible when all you could see was the colorful suits. The footage was all at a birds eye view.

“I believe the Deep beaching a whale but how’d it explode?”

“Was that the Deep?” I ask dumbfounded, squinting my eyes on the TV screen trying to decipher the pixelated footage.

“Did you know they were on a retcon mission?” Marie’s voice quivered with excitement she couldn’t hold back. She shakes my shoulders from across the table, trying to shake the words out of me.

“Of course not. I’m not nearly as important as you assume I am. I’m barely even a concept to them, an annoyance at most. Definitely not a part of The Seven , don’t let Homelander hear you say that.”

“Homelander’s touchy about you joining The Seven ?”

“I’m not a part of The Seven so there’s nothing to be touchy about. Now where is my coffee?” 

“Fine, if you want to change the subject I will. Tell me what it’s like to work at Vought!”

“Um, it's definitely…impressive.”

“Impressive? That’s all you got to say?” With Marie’s derisive questions the waitress drops two cups of black coffee in front of us.

“How are you expanding your resume by the way? Other than strongmaning your elders, of course.” 

“You will be happy to know I’m still volunteering at the soup kitchen. I kind of gave up on soccer, though. Didn’t want to break the news to you over the phone.” She shrugs, not seeming all that heartbroken over it. But that was Marie for you. If I didn’t have powers I would have a hard time reading her tightly held expressions. Her statements even offer many ways of interpreting, and she did all this on purpose. She holds everyone afar even the people she considers herself close to. I should check in on her more frequently.

“Well, I’m proud of you for taking your volunteer work seriously. If you tell me your schedule I could make some time to go to the soup kitchen with you, if you’d like?” I ask, hope obvious in my voice as I wrap my hands over hers from across the table. She smiles and squeezes my hands back. The warm tingle of content trinkles into my bloodstream, and I feel myself relax in what felt like a long time. Then things change.

I can’t hear anything as the world crashes around me. The Jitter Bean’s barely standing foundation is cracking and crumbling within a blink, plaster is falling from the ceiling and threatening to crush us. Marie grabs her bag and is immediately at my side looking for a safe path towards an exit. I grab her hand and focus every muscle in my body to push us out of this broken building. 

The waitress wails as she is hit with a large beam that was previously attached to the ceiling. As we run past her I can see the waitress wasn’t breathing. Someone screamed from the back–the cook, but Marie held my hand tight not willing to let me go while pushing past the hot steam spilling from the broken pipes. 

“You’re going to be okay, Daph.” Marie doesn’t give me time to respond before wrapping her arms around me and jumping through the steam and out the gaping hole that was the front entrance of the cafe. The steam was hitting Marie square in the back, but didn’t touch me. She yells out in pain as we land hard on the broken concrete. I push myself up from the cracked sidewalk and try to hold Marie as she lays on the ground groaning in pain.

“Oh god, M-Marie.” Her usual warm dark coloring has paled into an ashen shade. I turn her body to the side and she immediately howls out. The sharp guttural moans of pain coming from her lips before she takes in a deep breath. “I’m going to call for an ambulance, Marie. I will be with you the whole time. Don’t you w-worry.” Tears are falling down my face and I’m muttering her assurances as I can’t help but stare at her boiled back. Her back had layers of bubbles in her skin that oozed blood out by abundance, so much so that it was making me woozy. 

The emotional bombs that were surrounding me didn’t help my concentration either. I shakily grab my phone and I’m calling for the nearest hospital, but Marie’s hand grabs my phone before I can dial the final number.

“D-don’t.  Look again Daph, I'm healing.” She gasps out, barely able to grit out each word. She’s still strong even in such a dire situation. Looking once again at the mess of her back I can finally see what she means. The blood now was coagulating around each wound and it was healing at an impossibly fast rate. I didn’t know her blood powers gave her that much of a healing benefit; she must have been working on that for a while. She will be a great student for Godolkin University if I can get her out of this mess without further injury.

Marie’s coloring has returned and she doesn’t look like she was going to pass out anymore. She gets up more smoothly than could have been expected. I stumble to my feet grabbing her hand, making sure to not get separated until she’s safe. Finally looking at our surroundings we can see the whole west avenue street was caved in. A huge crevice that was so deep it led into what looks like the sewer system. Cars were half in the trench and other vehicles were abandoned or completely destroyed by the wreckage. The debris that fell into the entrance of Jitter Bean was not the result of the cave-in. 

People were screaming and running from an apartment building just a few streets across from us. If I squint hard enough I can see someone flying and twisting around the building. Crowds of people were scattered a good distance from the focal point of the ongoing destruction. In a blink a huge hole bursts from the apartment building with a resounding crack of thunder that made the whole street shake. Pieces of the building fall below and crash, making the crowd scream. 

“We need to get out of here.” Marie grips my hand tighter as she mutters this under her breath. I nod silently agreeing, but I couldn’t take my eyes off the building. Marie doesn’t give me much choice as she drags me in a speedy fashion farther away from the destruction. 

Sadly we didn’t get far away fast enough. Through a cloud of dirt and metal propelled itself with a human being attached. Landing not just a few feet from us. A black woman’s limbs were cracked and broken from all angles. Her neck was half decapitated from landing on a piece of shrapnel. Marie freezes at the sight now completely immobile. I stand between her and the dead woman blocking her view.

“Marie, you're not there. You’re not there anymore, Marie. Breathe. In,” I take in a deep breath, and through my powers I loosen her coiled tight aura “and out.” I repeat the loud breathing and she joins in as her shoulders finally release their tension. The screaming and thunder cracks don’t help completely soothe her panic attack, but it has helped her calm down a bit. “Are you feeling okay enough to get out–”

Black.

Everything is black.

Then I hear a voice. A voice I remember. It’s Marie. Her voice sounds far off and as if it was coming from under water.

“Daphne! Please, Daphne get up! I’m just going to get–” 

I can’t hear anything again. It all feels rather fuzzy. The pins and needles sensation across my entire body was the first thing I notice in the numb darkness. Then it was the groggy ache that throbbed a terrible beat inside my skull. That is excruciating. I blurrily open my eyes and I’m laying down in a cot with an IV attached to my arm. Turning my head I could see I was inside a temporary hospital setting, and from what it looks like, was holding a number of homeless people. Lines with food and clothes being handed out is a big give away.  

“I want to know she’s okay before I go but I have to be home before my curfew.”

“I understand miss. Hopefully your friend will be up soon, but she did receive a severe concussion. My advice is she get an MRI as soon as she can. Such injuries as hers shouldn’t be taken lightly.” The feminine and stern voice comes from the lady in the bloody scrubs.

“I’ll tell her.” Marie dismisses the woman completely and hurries to me with quick wobbly feet. “Daph, I’m so glad you’re up and okay. For a second I didn’t know how…” She left her sentence out in the air to be unfinished. “The field nurse says you should get an MRI after this. To make sure you don’t have irreparable damage, you know, the usual checkup.” She shrugs, trying to lighten everything with gallows humor. It helps.

“What time is it?”

“It just turned 5.” She checks her phone with a flicker of worry in her golden eyes.

“Marie, thank you for saving me a million times and hopefully we will be able to hangout under better circumstances,” Marie snorts at that “but go home before you get in trouble.” I lift myself up from the cot taking the IV out myself. Marie’s eyebrows twist up and her mouth turns down as if wanting to say something. I shake my head at her and she gives out a long sigh.

“Okay, just please get home safe. Take a cab as soon as you feel better.”

“I will. Now get going!” I  wave my hands at her trying to push her away. She smiles, a real smile I haven’t seen on her in this entire time we’ve talked today. A smile of relief is better than no smile at all. She gives me a quick hug before running out the doors. She hopefully made it back in time without punishment. Red River Institute was quite harsh with punishments. 

I sigh, and try to get up from my cot on my trembling feet. I grab a crutch that was left for me and can’t help but pat at the bandage wrapped around my head. I flinch back from my gentle prodding and feel pretty dumb for it. Catching my eye was the crowd of news press filming a makeshift stage in the center of the refuge. Center stage was my worst nightmare, Stan Edgar. He was a wearing a navy blue pinstripe suit that looked tailor made for him, which it was, and the fabric looks like it was ported here from Egypt. He looked healthy and pristine as if he didn't have a worry in the world. My blood goes ice cold and I kept stop myself from glaring at him. His polished perfect white smile takes over his face morphing him to look approachable, but I know what he is. A predator who's just got his kill. 

He begins his speech with as much confidence as someone born with a silver tongue.

“I know the news about Compound V is a shock to everyone. As you can imagine, this has been a very difficult day for the Vought family. Our focus now will be to learn the truth. As I said we are conducting a robust investigation into Compound V, but let me be clear; I had no knowledge whatsoever. We believe it was the work of a small, disaffected group of scientists led by former Vought employee Madelyn Stillwell. But sadly, there are more important matters at hand. Everyone at Vought sends their thoughts and prayers to those families that were affected today. Though it is important to acknowledge that this tragic event could have been far worse; today’s attack underscores just how dangerous Super terrorists have become. And, at a time like this, America needs its heroes more than ever. We live in a dangerous world. Our brave heroes were already fighting terrorists overseas, but now, America faces this war on a different front: right here at home. These enemies will stop at nothing to infiltrate our borders and attack our citizens. Our superheroes are the last line of defense. And today, the death toll would have been much higher had it not been for the brave actions of our newest hero, Stormfront, who stopped the terrorist before he could take more innocent lives. I don’t want to imagine what would have happened if Stormfront hadn’t been there, but thankfully she was patrolling the border of New York when she heard the destruction taking place . Without hesitation she immediately swooped in and put herself in harm's way to stop this terrorist from harming any more people. America is truly blessed to have you, ladies and gentlemen, Stormfront.” Stan Edgar’s speech is pristine as he gives no leeway for a journalist’s intrusion. Every little loophole Edgar could possibly think to cover within thirty seconds was said. 

He did it all with such a calm demeanor it made me feel ill. Looking at his face made my palms sweat profusely and the pit of my stomach burns with a cold fury I couldn’t bear. Like coals resting still inside my belly and burning through my intestines.

“Thank you. But we all know who the real heroes of this group are, right? The people you see behind you, the people who are struggling every day. So let’s give them all a hand.” She starts the round of applause and the people in the building join in. I clap along politely too trying to mask my inner turmoil. I take in the scene around me trying to ignore the press and Stan Edgar all together. 

I notice Stormfront isn’t the only one of The Seven in the makeshift hospital and refuge for the newly homeless. Starlight is at the booth handing out water, but her shining bright aura that is usually impossible to miss is dim. She’s lost some of her light, but why? Looking to the opposite side at the exit where more people are being gurneyed in and out; Homelander stood at the edge of the scene. His whole soul screamed and raged, so much so the tornado that was his aura spins and twists so fast I can feel the winds whip at my mind. The power of his emotions and soul battered at me with such ferocity I'm lucky I'm still standing. Through pure willpower and one crutch I wobble my way towards the superhero. People gave him a wide berth, so even they could sense he was on edge. 

I drag myself across the makeshift hospital to look him directly in the eyes but he’s hyper focused on the stage. He hasn’t noticed me. I cough. 

“What are you doing here?” His eyes grows wide and his attention is immediately on me, so much power in a stare.

“I didn’t exactly book myself a room here, Homelander. I got in the crosshairs of the destruction and was brought here for immediate medical care.”

“Did you see what she just did?” His intense stare that felt like a natural force when directed towards me were now glaring back up at the stage.

“See what?” I can't help but feel discombobulated by his outright anger.  

“The way she smiled at me, all smug. She knew I had called dibs on him and she still has the audacity to do that .” His hands were gesture energetically and the next moment he’s still as a statue. His writhing aura quivers and shakes, but the tornado was still. I couldn’t decide which was scarier. “ 

“What if I told you I know how to get your numbers to skyrocket by tomorrow.” 

“I’d tell you you're full of shit.” He whispers derisively, glaring down at me with pure hatred I think incorrectly directed towards me.

“Come make pasta with me and I’ll tell you my plan.” This whole idea centers around him actually agreeing. The spur of the moment idea influenced completely around what happened today. Marie's words partly to thank for this brilliant idea. An idea so good it will help me help Homelander, while also letting Homelander think he’s getting what he wants. It’s so good it probably won’t work. But it’s worth a shot.

“What the fuck are you talking about? I got better places to be than listening to your hairbrained schemes.” He scuffs shuffling away from me, inching closer to the exit. 

“The invitation is always open. If you want to hear my proposal, and also make pasta with me, then stop by.” I say before turning my back on him and hobbling away. Not letting him have the last words this time.

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

If you want to get my most recent updates for this fic check it out on AO3!

[sterlingarcher23]

- Neverending Story -

Turn around. Look at what you see. In her face the mirror of your dreams. (Max and El are narrational magic mirror - will talk about in another post)

Make believe I'm everywhere given in the light. (Max trying to think happy memories and the bottle points to El - lens flare and rainbow)

Written on the pages is the answer to a neverending story (Max's letter to El ; the MKUltra files containing information about El, Max and the alternate dimension & teleportation)

Reach the stars - Fly a fantasy. (the brain looks the same as the cosmic web, it's technically a universe in itself and been talked about not just in recent years. The writers tweeted about a song called "Cosmic love" one as well ; fly a fantasy = flee out of this romantic fantasy of yours)

Dream a dream and what you see will be. (Lucid dreaming: Max is able to walk between dimensions of the mindscape as shown when she did enter the mind lair from her own mindscape ; no concentration or help with a network needed, she does it like we go through a door - and making a dream real: Max can alter her mindscape)

Rhymes that keep their secrets will unfold behind the clouds (Patterns = Rhymes =Poem)

And there upon a rainbow is the answer to a neverending story. (Henry is upon a rainbow: his actions trigger the Neverending Story to happen ; El sent Max's consciousness over a rainbow bridge/Bifrost into another dimension)

Show no fear for she may fade away. (Fading in the void and really be gone if El's afraid - she isn't in the revival scene. There's neither fear, no anger, those are El's usual triggers for her powers but im this case its love)

In your hand the birth of a new day (El holding Max's hand, the flower, the bottle ; Lucas holding the pinecone = resurrection, regeneration, eternal life)

Rhymes that keep their secrets will unfold behind the clouds (Patterns = Rhymes again ; El and Max meeting completing the poem)

And there upon a rainbow is the answer to a neverending story. (Rainbow on Max's face ; rainbow directly behind Max = the other dimension is inside of Max)

She's the answer and the dimension directly connected to her brain to a neverending story for El and Max.

The "rainbow" can also be interpreted as the eyes iris (Greek for rainbow) - since "You are an angel in disguise. I can see it in your eyes"

A few lines can be interpreted for other moments, forwards and backwards (reach the stars = Starcourt), not just Season 4 but also foreshadowing Season 5. And it can be compared with other media references that are inspirational elements for the show.

Anyway, it is heavily Elmax coded. Similar to the song lyrics of "Separate ways (Worlds apart)": "Someday love will find you." - meaning it isn't meant for Season 4 but 5.

The Neverending Story is only possible through this:

[animehime94]

THANKS TO THEM I'M BAWLING RN

Here it's 8 AM in the morning and I just finished watching Thanks to Them.

I did guess this episode would be about Luz' friends discovering human world and it would end in a cliffhanger with Belos.

BUT IT STILL DESTROYED ME 🥺😭🥺😭🥺😭

They were learning Spanish with "the scary owl" aka Duolingo 😅 And Hunter was trying to learn how to sew like Dadrius I- 🥺

I actually wanted everyone to go to school with Luz and see how human schools work. But it didn't happen, and Luz seemed miserable there compared to Hexside.

Another interesting thing was Camilla's dream about Luz. She loves her just the way she is, and actually enjoys her creative side. But everyone else in human realm sees Luz as a failure and such comments overwhelmed her. I would say this is an accurate symbol of having a child with special needs AND depression / anxiety.

Believe me or not, I get the exact feeling of drowning in deep waters when everything feels overwhelming to me. It's like I can't breathe and I sink deeper in my mindscape. But I always find a way to breathe. To get out of there. And it's thanks to shows like TOH 🥹

I really appreciate Dana and TOH crew for making one of the best shows I have ever seen in my entire life. If I was able to grow up with this, if I was in my childhood, I would have a lot more self confidence. But it's not too late, even as an adult and as a teacher I am learning a lot.

Hunter's PTSD is valid. He did his best to cope with Belos' existence but things took an unexpected turn.

The sacrifice was already guessed by the fandom but it still broke my heart and I'm still crying as I write this post.

I'm really sorry if my comments or thoughts don't make sense. It's just my way of being open with how I feel and I really want to share my thoughts as I remember them.

I wouldn't be able to talk to the people around me about these things. I'm in a toxic situation where my family is against my lifestyle. We are polar opposites and they don't get me. But I know this fandom will. I'm sure someone will be able to relate to it. Just like how I could relate to both Luz and Camilla.

Speaking of them, the ending took me by surprise. I didn't expect them to be together. I thought they would be seperated once again, but I guess this proves how much Camilla cares about her children. Yes. Her children. She is a proud mom of 6 teenagers 🥹

I hope she will be able to meet Eda, King and Principal Bump. I really want Camilla to see they love and understand Luz the way she is. And hearing Bump's comments would reassure her that Luz belongs there. Maybe she can even help with the Collector by like... being the awesome mom she is and telling them bedtime stories. Because I can't see them as an evil character. They just look like a lonely kid with divine powers to me.

Last but not least, I hope they destroy Belos for good. He deserves the worst after all the evil shit he did 🤬

[ablednt]

1) Is there any media you think did explicitly plural characters well? 2) Is there any media you think handled CSA well (I think you mentioned Persona 5 once but I can’t find that post). 3) How do you think the “into the mindscape” plot can work well (either headspace or metaphorical, and how do you make it clear if it’s the latter?)

1) in terms of like, explicitly stated in a "this character is a system I'm writing about a system this is a plural system"....no I cannot think of any unless we count indie OCs from unpublished works but I don't really in this case. The closest to being explicitly plural I can think of is I'm actually quite fond of how systemhood is portrayed in Omori (it's technically not explicitly stated but the call the inworld headspace for a reason yk?). I just think that for the most part we aren't really in a place yet where most plural creators are A) aware of their plurality and B) safe to canonize it rather than providing subtext and hints.

3) (2 got too long to put in the middle) I honestly just like basically every iteration of this trope and especially how much plural coding goes into it. Most of the people making it do seem to be plural in that they cannot imagine a mind in which there is only one person or one version of a person, it really speaks to the theory side of plurality, an exploration of what it means for the human brain. The only times I think it's executed badly is when it's deliberately plural and made by singlets because then we get stuff like the abomination that is total drama islands "literally a brain with gross bits all over the place" headspace." I like them when they're metaphorical and don't rely too much on coherence one just because it's fun and the trope doesn't take itself all too seriously generally and also because our headspace tends to have a slightly incoherent, dream-like quality so it feels more accurate that way.

2) Yes but to a point. The bar is absolutely in the floor when it comes to representation of CSA victims and survivors so I always feel like I'm praising media for the bare minimum and I've never truly felt fully seen by any portrayal and my opinion on that hasn't changed but...! I do have a slightly better outlook on some medias than I did the last time I was talking about this. (Mild spoilers for persona 5 and major spoilers for revolutionary girl utena, discussion of CSA and violence)

Persona 5 was I think, perhaps the best in terms of showing the character moving on to having a full life and character arc unconnected to their trauma without shelving it unrealistically. Ann gets closure within the first proper arc of her story and is able to get justice, and when she initially refuses to kill her abuser I was expecting this to be some stupid "I heal by forgiveness" bullshit but her reasoning of "Actually I want him to suffer worse than death instead of giving him an out lol" was iconic. After that she remains traumatized but there's a lot more to her character than just that which is sadly quite rare and I actually surprisingly ADORED seeing her go to therapy in p5 royal and being able to officially just talk about her feelings and how terrible everything was.

HOWEVER persona 5 loses all of what would have been really powerful for two reasons. One is that they sexualize the hell out of Ann for comedic relief (especially by putting her in situations where she must act sexual when she does not actually want to) and kind of just for no reason, which turns out being super disparaging after such powerful build up. But more importantly because one of the romance options for the main character who is her classmate is with one of his teachers (who I have super complex feelings about because most people hate the character for this but I don't I think she had a lot of potential and it's really fucking sus that they made their only sex worker character be available for romancing a whole child who is also her student, I feel like as a character she was done just as dirty by this option as the other characters were) so it's like... what is it only abuse and disgusting if it's a blatantly creepy man? Is it a case of "boys want to be sexually abused so it's fine" or what? What message are we supposed to be taking from this?

On another note the media that grew on me a LOT since I was last discussing this was Revolutionary Girl Utena, which remains incredibly relevant despite having a certain 90s crust on it/aff. Before whilst I was fond of the ideas it was presenting I felt betrayed that we never saw a follow up on Anthy's freedom, she just, quietly leaves without much else in terms of closure and by the time any other installments of the story exist it's either a reboot entirely or another timeline in a timeloop and that's not bad but after so much pain it felt lacking.

But it really grew on me as I started to look at the purpose of this story differently. Initially I felt like it was just an exploration of what experiencing CSA is like without any other underlining message, it was accurate to my experiences, sure, but it made me feel hopeless like there wasn't a point to it other than to sit with that pain.

But what I realized more recently is that RGU is a love-letter for the meaning you can find within trauma. The message of RGU isn't "if you've gone through abuse there's a better tomorrow for you," it doesn't deny that either but it's left very uncertain on that point.

But instead it does something that I haven't really seen from other depictions of CSA victims in that it lets its characters be Messy. Like so fucking messy without demonizing them for it? It says, boldly, and unapologetically, that you deserved to be loved even if you lash out due to abuse, even if you don't fit into the role of an "acceptable" abuse victim.

It says, "here's two abuse victims who love each other so much that when Anthy stabs Utena through the back to kill her, all Utena can think to do is reach for her hand, not even the thought of having been betrayed present." It says "even if you never get closure, even if you were to completely disappear right now, even if nothing good lasts from this, right now matters, and the relationships you have with fellow survivors matter."

I also find the exploration of CSA within the story to be suitably complex and find I actually quite like so many of the girls at Ohtori being victims of Akio (and Touga) because it gives each character a lot more room to be messy in their own way without feeling like it's making a statement on all survivors/victims.

Kozue says, "when you live in an impure world you need to become unpure to get what you want." She embraces her trauma, she glorifies it, and this isn't really portrayed as problematic so much as being like "this is a child and she is incredibly broken and trying her goddamn best to keep it together, but she doesn't know what she wants and she doesn't know what to do other than to go along with everything that makes her feel in control"

Nanami on the other hand tries desperately to regain her sense of grace and dignity all the while reality is crumbling around her and she slowly realizes that the only foundation she has (her abuser) is only making her more unstable. By the end of it she's so goddamn weary she can't even find it in her to lash out at anyone anymore, she wants out and so she starts to withdraw.

Wakaba's trauma is a lot more ambiguous. On the surface, what she's going through is kind of the most normal in the show and she seems well adjusted and healthy... until you realize that she's still being groomed by the overall culture of the school which is something that ALSO basically never gets addressed both in media and irl how like. You can be groomed without ever having an abuser, how we are all victims of pedophilia culture and it causes us to be complicit in others abuse. She falls apart because she's balancing her desire to not get hurt with her desire to have a place within society, she flirts with grown men to fit in, to feel like she's more mature and more confident than she actually is.

And of course in the center we have Anthy and Utena.

Anthy is an exploration of the way that victims are demonized and the roles that they inevitably play to survive. To say that all of her submissiveness and kindness and long-suffering is a front she's putting up and she's actually conceited and toxic and hurtful is a misinterpretation of the entire point of the show. She's an embodiment of everything that this world hates- a child who has realistic emotions and needs that inconvenience others.

Every "evil" act she commits is something she does for Akio because she's never had a choice other than serving his interests. She may be more powerful than him, she may have every physical ability to leave but... she doesn't realize that because she's been made to feel inferior to him for so goddamn long and she's a 14 year old child so of course she's going to feel restricted and like she has no choice but to appeal to her abuser (yes she's immortal but I think anyone who got the takeaway that she's somehow an adult is seriously misinterpreting the entire point of "no one actually ages at this school time simply isn't passing.") She plays into the part of the perfect abuse victim because she wants and needs to feel loved, she needs to feel valuable, and when she doesn't uphold this image when she has problems when she's not okay that's when she's being stabbed with million of swords to receive all of humanity's hatred and that's like. SUCH a strong way to express what it FEELS like to be a survivor in a society where abuse victims are only supported superficially.

And then Utena's is an exploration of what grooming feels like itself. Using the main, viewpoint, character to explore what it's like to be groomed is actually pretty rare I feel like but they executed it perfectly. It's so realistically done with the decent into Akio being this abusive villain so gradual that a lot of viewers who aren't familiar with sexual abuse and grooming will watch it and be like "damn that was weird I didn't get that at all lol" because they didn't really have the time to process what they were watching just like Utena barely had time to process what was happening to her.

He seems like a good guy, he seems kind to Anthy and she seems to trust him. He welcomes Utena into his home, he just wants her to feel loved and safe, right? When she experiences transphobia at school he comes to her aid, he admires her for her gender-nonconformity after all.

But then suddenly she starts to feel afraid of him and she doesn't understand why, she starts getting intrusive thoughts about the two of them together romantically, and she knows that's wrong but she isn't thinking about her age in the equation because why would she? She's mature, she doesn't have parents, she's old enough to fight to the death to protect her best friend so she ought to be old enough for an adult relationship right? That's a non issue to her, because she's too young to realize how young she is, but she still inherently knows it's wrong.

And she tries to voice this, she tries so goddamn hard. She says "aren't you kind of a pervert?" and he responds with (very paraphrased) "I am but you're just as deviant as I am, your being nonbinary is the same as my being a pedophile."

And like. She's 14, she's the only openly queer person she's ever met, he's been supportive before now so like.... he's gotta be right, doesn't he? There's not argument that can be made to this when he's leaning over her to pin her down and she's dissociating too hard to think straight.

Watching her spiral deeper into depression as she faces more and more abuse feels intimate, like, at no point do her actions not make perfect sense from the perspective of a grooming victim and that's something that you really don't get from so many media. And is is empowering to see her pull herself out of this and to see him for what he is, the resulting sword fight, and the way she ignores him completely as she tries one last time to reach Anthy and convince her that she deserves better than this, that all means something even if her ending isn't a happy one.

The series is a comforting one for me when I'm already triggered because it speaks to the tired cynic in me that knows that on a societal level that things aren't getting better or safer, that I'm never going to get rid of these ptsd symptoms because I am inherently retraumatized by how widespread this kind of trauma is. In that respect I'm Anthy in her coffin and Utena is reaching for me, and telling me that my friendships, my relationships with equally traumatized people no matter how hard and messy still matters. And that's a message that I just haven't seen anywhere else that you can find some happiness within an abusive environment and that still means something, even if you can't find anything else.

It's definitely not perfect and it doesn't fix the fact that I have yet to see any media with explicitly explored CSA where the victim is able to have not just a happy ending but a full continuation of their life outside their trauma in which they can heal and find support and a kinder world, I don't have any comfort media that does that for me which sucks a LOT. But Utena does make me feel a little better when I start to feel really hopeless about everything.

[aobawilliams]

Au for the ask game: future holders of ofa have access to the mindscape and vestige ghost projection from birth on, meaning that Izuku grows up with the vestiges serving a constant fixture in his life as did All Might. When the quirk is passed on so are the vestiges, so the shift may be a bit jarring for living previous holders

[Send me an AU I’ll send you headcanons]

That's such a fun idea tbh djdjdj

1 - Toshi has always been able to access the vestige world in his dreams, as far as he can remember. This is where he first met Nana, though at the time she was still a beginning of a shade (similar to Vestige Might, but less developped. More like an Idea.)

2 - After Nana dies, his grief gets attenuated by the fact he can still see her, as she slowly get more and more settled in the vestige world. The first time Gran Torino hears him talking to Nana after her death, he thinks it's just the grief working and probably works him harder as a result (after all, you can't feel grief if you're too tired to think. It worked for him, didn't it.)

3 - All Might feel when Izuku is born/first aware of the vestige world, though he cannot see him in it. Since OfA is a lot stronger, Izuku has an easier access to the vestige world in his dreams, he can see Vestige Might, and how he's slowly getting more and more formed through the years. (All Might has an harder access to the dream vestige world, but a huge part is also due to the fact All Might doesn't sleep/rest)

4 - After passing on OfA, the shift is gradual. Until Kamino, and Toshinori turns expecting to talk to any of the vestiges and there is no one. And they stop appearing to him altogether. On the opposite, he finds it easier to access the vestige dream world, as Vestige Might gets more and more conscious.

5 - The first time Izuku sees Vestige Might in the real world, he freaks out. Hard. He literally ran through campus to All Might's dorm door, almost knocking it out until a just-woken-up All Might opens the door to him.

[calehenituseappreciation]

Ive seen a lot of Dream (and usually Techno and Phil too) as gods au (i have one too dw) but all of you are sleeping on the funniest option.

Tommy is the god.

Tommy.

hes the only one in that galaxy (other than drista ofc)

Just imagine how fucking funny it is like 

it would be so fucking hilarious

and tommy just doesnt tell them

so techno is just there making all these blood god jokes and jokingly telling tommy to serve him and tommys just laughing

imagine a god in the form of a chaotic 16 year old racoon gremlin just walts into your land commits arson and gets banned, only to come back with another person who he helps start a nation for drugs?

imagine how fucking funny it is

just

imagine tubbo banning a literal god from his lands and he just doesnt come back? he just plays by the rules? then goes and like sits in the corner all sad because some humans/dreamons told him to leave

ranboo, just joining the server: hi-  a chaotic gremlin god: wanna commit arson with me?  ranboo, just trying to vibe and maybe not disturb this god: sure 

Phil and Ranboo recongnize Tommy as a god on sight.

Everyone else just refuses to believe it. hes Tommy. Tommyinnit. hes just weird lol

And Drista being a fucking chaotic blood god? 

drista is open about her godhood and does not hesitate to spawn blocks

Drista finds Dream and decides she likes this small human, and dream just has to deal with it lmao.

drista and tommy are both born at the same time.

Tommy is a god of music, chaos, war and theivery (the last one bc he is a BITCH)

Drista is the blood god, chaos, deception, and theatre

okay but imagine the sbi interactions... like ig in this au tommy joins at like 12/13 years of age (in their minds) so he doesnt really grow much 

and like tommy, a literal god, just claiming phil as his father???

phil, in his house making eggs, assuming one of his sons woke up and came to the kitchen, not looking: hey son  tommy, from their couch, already deciding hes phils son now: whats up dad? phil: looks up at tommy who are you tommy: idk dad, who am i  phil: *stares at tommy for a second* eh i made extra eggs you can stay 

ASJIDGASUIOG IMAGINE TOMMY TELLING THEM HES A GOD BUT THEY THINK HES JOKING AND IGNORE HIM

everyone on the server: tommy is the youngest! tommy, as old as the universe: no im not!!!! im not a child!!!! he doesnt pout because pouting is for children and hes not a child but hes pouting tubbo: lol im older than you by a month tommy dont try to hide it tommy: im not a child!!!! techno: laughs

tommy doesn't try to hide that hes a god just its tommy

thats all the evedince anyone needs to think tommy isnt a god or powerful its like mcc hes good but only when he doesnt throw for content

quackity: sees drista written in bedrock lmao drista visited? tommy: yeah! i wrote that for her!  quackity: snorts yeahhhh sureee tommy

imagine like how fucking funny it is jsut like 

a fucking chaotic god breaks into your house androbs you makes a room under your house and decides to live in your floorboards

imagine dream like trying to manipulate tommy, and tommy a fucking anchient diety immeditly recongnizes what hes doing

but decides to play along for the angst and giggles and then actually gets mad when no one fucking cares for his theatrics

tommy, storming off to technos base to rob and build under: >:///// cant believe none of them acknoledged my  deppression 

i love that tommy stills robs everyone, he doesnt need to he can spawn in anything he wants

he just does it for the sport of robbery

JAKOGFSDOH

THE HOLY LAND

dream: im god actually tommy: thats so fucking funny lets make a cult about that :)  dream: see! look! im god! and jesus!  tommy: wheezing

imagine tommy getting stressed and letting go of his mortal form

Tommy, his human form peeling away, showing his actual form a bit: WH̸͘A͠T̷ ̶̢T͞H͢E ̡͘F̴̵͘Ù̧C͜K҉ ̶T͘͜͞E͟CHǸ͏Ǫ  Techno: HAH?

tommy just saw tubbo and got emotionally attached

Tommy, a literal god: hello Tubbo: oh hi do you like my pet bee? Tommy: you’re mine now Tubbo: im okay with this

tommy, a bored god: gives techno shapeshifting powers  techno, not even caring: changes into more human to pig-ishg forms as he wishes this is my life now ig 

phil lets tommy do fuck all in exile bc he knows hes a god hes fine

phil: IDC IF YOURE A GOD! YOU WILL DO THE DISHES NOW YOUNG MAN! tommy: grumbles but does them

phil is the only one who can control tommy

god... tommy... with star freckles... on his human form... (as well as his god one)

tommy: f̷͛͠a̵̋t̵̒̑h̸̚e̶̓͝r̸͊ ̸̐̒i̴ ̸̅̿d̷̉͆o̵͂͋ ̵̛̆ñ̸̾ő̶́t̸̎́ w̶͆͘i̴͠s̵̓̈́h̸͗́ ̵̯͗f̶͋́ő̴͑r̷̐̌ ̶͝é̵̽g̸͊͂g̵̒s̷͂̃  phil: idc, eat your goddamn eggs tommy: pouts

tommy, despite being able to get supplies himself by fucking spawning them in: hey tubbo? we need supplies 

In this au ig like if a god claims you you get a mark on your skin showing that. Drista’s would be like a green crown, Tommys would be a red and white disk (white as the outer ring and red as the center) (its different enough that if you don’t realise tommy is a god you wouldnt realise whos it is) (schlatt is the only one who never had one which shoulda been a sign dude :/)

Dream has two from the beginning, everyone else has only one, well until they meet drista. (sbi have had one since they met tommy, though they dont remember the first time they met tommy)

wait what if tommy like found them all as children one by one and later kinda pulled some strings to get them all in one kingdom. (he still joined sbi through forcing phil to adopt him) 

OKAY BUT IMAGINE IF TOMMY MET TECHNO WHEN TECHNO WAS YOUNG ENOUGH TO NOT REMEMBER

tommy would hang out with baby techno and tell him stories

once he told him the story of a man named thesus

another time he told him the story of a blood god

like for example tommys first time meeting techno would be like

(for context techno lived in a shitty village and was an orphan and it was kinda a dog eat dog place, he learned how to be strong because of it)(he was young enough that he doesn’t remember this well, just like learning about the blood god and someone giving him gold)

baby techno: sighs tommy, appearing out of nowhere: oh heyyy whyre you sad? techno: jumps turning around with a knife up ready for a fight who are you tommy: im tommy! :) techno: what do you want from me! you dont scare me! tommy: whats your name! techno: i have a knife! i'll use it! tommy: of course, thats a given, but its rude not to tell people your name techno, confused: t-technoblade? tommy: smiles thats a nice name techno: so. tommy: hm? techno: why're you here tommy: i don't have a reason. im just a traveller! techno: then why hole to this terrible village! theres nothing nice here! everyone is terrible and so are you! tommy: hmmmm i dont agree techno: what are you? a child? i thought adults were supposed to know that everyone is mean tommy: mmhmm looks at the bruise on technos face where'd you get that? techno: fight. i won. i'll win against you too! so don't try anything. tommy: of course. i would never win in a fight against a blood god techno, putting down his knife a bit, stars in his eyes: blood god? tommy: grins blood. god. i think she'd like you. techno, muttering: maybe i can give the blood god some of your blood tommy: laughs yeah, she'd defenitly find you intresting tommy: here tosses techno a golden crown at techno, he spawned it in in the moment techno: whats this? tommy: a crown, thought it suit you screams in the distance tommy: huh. i need to go. have fun lil piglin. ruffles technos hair before running off towards the screaming unbeknownst to the pig the blood god was actually the one waiting for the god he met. techno: stares at the crown 

Techno found a pouch of gold in his ‘house’ later that day. he didnt know who left it but it helped him get food for that night. (he kept the crown)

okay but imagine tommy not taking the war seriously at all, and only seeing it as a squabble between mortals, Like toddlers fighting

dream: SURENDER BY TOMMOROW OR WE'LL DECLARE WAR! wilbur: FUCK YOU WE'LL NEVER SURENDER AND JOIN YOUR SMP! Tommy: how cute

tommy doesnt realise that theyre serious until wilbur dies

tommy would usually go apeshit against anyone who dares messes with his humans, but what is he supposed to do when his humans are fighting Eachother?

wilbur: fucking goes insane and dies  tommy: hey- hey can you guys let me talk to wil for a sec? everyone else leaves tommy, unsually somber: sorry i didnt help you i forgot how easily breakable mortals are tommy: this time you wont die, and i'll make it so that you dont break again, okay? tommy: brings wilburs soul out of its body and enters his mindscape ghostbur: wakes up what- where am i? tommy: hi there ghostbur: who are you tommy: i go by a lot of names all, one, you, the world, the universe, god, but you can just call me tommy ghostbur: oh okay. who am i? tommy: you're name was wilbur soot. you were the son of philza minecraft and brother to Technoblade, Tubbo and myself. ghostbur: was? tommy: well you see, you died. ghostbur: oh... well what am i then? tommy: a ghost! well actually its your choice. would you like to continue your existance or fade away with your body? ghostbur: i dont want to fade away! tommy: smiles thats what i thought you'd say stretches his hand to wilbur ghostbur: grabs tommy hand tommy: lets go home

ghostbur doesnt remember that though

he only remembers the good

tommy wont let him remember the bad, what if he breaks again? mortals are so fragile

phil realises what tommy did as soon as he sees ghostbur 

drista, painting tommys nails (there both in god form btw) (after wilburs death btw): tommy shouldn't you of all gods realise how fragile they are?  tommy: i know just... forgot  drista: sighs and nods i get what you mean, especially with the ones we found... they act a lot like gods sometimes i forgot they arent  tommy: ikr? wait- drista here gets drista's hair out of her face you were gonna get it on my nails, anyways, don't judge me. we all know if dream died you would turn him into a ghost too drista: smirks not if you do it first, we all know you would tommy: you say that as if you wouldn't fight me to do it first  drista: .... tommy: ... drista: both of us when he dies? tommy: nods tommy: anyways my turn to do your nails 

or like tommy with ghostbur like

ghostbur: i don't like this :( tommy, a worried brother and god: whats wrong? ghostbur: everyone is mad at me and i d-dont know why- why are they mad at me tommy: theyre mad at something alivebur did ghostbur: b-but im not alivebur sniffs it hurts. i dont like it. tommy: spawns in some blue here ghostbur: whats that? tommy: its some blue! it'll help you not hurt anymore! ghostbur: how does it work? tommy: see how its blue? ghostbur: nods tommy: well its blue because it sucks up all the bad feelings! it'll help ghostbur: !!!!! ghostbur: presses the blue into his chest ghostbur: !!!!its working!!!! :D tommy: smiles good

wilbur fucking died and tommy went from annoying little brother to caring older brother

tommy just wants to help his brother :) though he doesnt realise that not letting ghostbur remember bad memories isnt good

*at logsted shire btw* ghostbur: who are you? tommy, chuckling: did you forget me already ghostbur? ghostbur: i didnt forget you! i think! you're tommy! i just... you're different tommy, looks over at ghostbur: different how? ghostbur: you're not normal are you? tommy: grins whaaaaat? you think im weirdddd? how heartbreaking... my own brother thinks im weird, this is terrible ghostbur: giggles tommy: but really, don't worry about it bur. ghostbur: you sure? tommy: yeah, dont worry about me ghostbur: smiles okay! do you want some blue anyways? tommy: giggles sure! ghostbur: grins

ghostbur isnt worried about tommy

he knows hes strong

phil having to tell tommy that he cant just not let wilbur remember the bad memories

and tommys like "what if he breaks again!" and phil hugs him and tells him to at least ask ghostbur if he wants to remember and tommys like ‘fine’

tommy: hey bur? ghostbur: yeah? tommy: do you like you're memories? ghostbur: i mean, yeah its hard not to when you only remember the good tommy, quietly: would you want to remember the bad? ghostbur: w-what brought this question on tommy: answer the question ghostbur: no- alivebur was badi shouldn't want to- tommy: but what do you want bur? wilbur, silent for a moment: yeah- yeah i do. not that i like the bad memories! they hurt... but i wish i could remember tommy: ... ghostbur: hey tommy? tommy: yeah? ghostbur, with tears in his eyes: do you think they'd be less mad at me if i could remember, maybe then i could repair my relationships, what the hell am i supposed to do when i dont even remember hurting them? tommy: what if they dont? what if you break again? ghostbur, saltily: we'll maybe i'll be able at least be able to say i know why everyone hates me tommy: i know how to get all of your memories back ghostbur, looks towards tommy in shock: you do??? tommy: nods ghostbur, voice wavering: for how long tommy: since the beginning ghostbur: and you didnt tell me tommy: i did what i thought was best. i just didnt want you to hurt anymore. ghostbur, angrily: WELL THAT CLEARLY WORKED DIDNT IT? tommy: sorry wilbur, sometimes i forget how to handle humans ghostbur: what- tommy: sighs and taps ghostbur on the forehead and ghostbur does the ghost equivilent of passing out tommy: wont hide any memories this time

ghostbur doesnt wake up, instead wilbur wakes up weither thats good or bad we'll see

wilbur, waking up with all his memories: HOLY SHIT TOMMY WASN'T KIDDING phil, who was reading beside the bed tommy placed wilbur into, which was in technos house. yes he broke into technos house with a passed out wilbur. move on.: hm? wilbur: holy shit phil: huh? yeah. wilbur: wait you knew? phil: yeah i recongnized him as soon as i saw him about 5 years ago now? wilbur: excuse me while i freak out because my little brother is an actual god

it really hits wilbur that tommy is a god later

wilbur: hey tommy? tommy: yeah? wilbur: how fucking old are you? tommy: snorts of course thats the first thing you ask wilbur: well? tommy: i dont really know the exact years since years are kind of a human thing that were invented recently wilbur: they were invented thousands of years ago- tommy: but it was around the beginning of this galaxy wilbur, softly: what the fuck

tommy telling wilbur stories about different heros and villains and different humans he met during his life.

Adsjbffsg what if Tommy made himself blonde and blue eyed and white bc thats hyow the first human he met looked like asjfhsd

and just didnt change that, despite meeting new humans, its just his defult settings.

he would totally do this tho im crying.

drista just based her human form off dream because she is his sister now. he must deal with this. trying disowning me when i look like you BITCH.

thats my take anyways later might continue this

[theothin]

Utena Movie Mindscape Sequel Theory

Taking a crack at putting this all together.

The premise of the theory is, the movie takes place some time after the show. Utena has become the target of the Swords of Hate and been sealed away elsewhere. Anthy has set off on her journey to find Utena and made her way into the place Utena is sealed, getting caught inside as well. The place Utena is sealed configures itself based on the memories of the two people trapped within it, becoming a recreation of Ohtori Academy and populating it with simulations of the people there. The movie tells the story of Utena and Anthy escaping this mindscape and finally winning the shared freedom they’d unsuccessfully sought in the anime.

Now, in fairness, dream/imagination explanations for stories are easy to claim and hard to falsify. But I think there’s enough evidence for a compelling case.

One of the first things to show up in the movie is the school’s architecture, strikingly bizarre even compared to the show’s version of the school and constantly moving with no explanation. This immediately creates the feeling of a particularly fanciful and unreal setting.

When they actually show up, Utena and Anthy look and act pretty different from the show. Utena has short hair and a more androgynous outfit, leaning more into her “prince” aesthetic, while Anthy has her hair down and no glasses, matching the end of the show. They’re also much more forward with each other, Anthy going so far as to jump in to help Utena during her first duel and kissing her while she’s “supposed” to be with Sainoji. Within the movie alone, this is very sudden and at odds with her Rose Bride role, but as a follow-up to the show, it makes sense as a result of their memories leaking through.

According to the mindscape theory, the other characters are all simulacrums, simplified recreations constructed from Utena and Anthy’s memories. (Nanami’s simplification is particularly blatant.) Characters being simplified fits the movie format, but also there are some oddities. One interesting distortion is Juri’s flirting with Miki: in the show, she never shows any interest in guys, but I like to think Utena doesn’t know enough about queer stuff to fully understand that and so she imagines Juri as bi. Juri is also the only duelist Utena never properly beat within the show, but Utena gets a rematch with her and finally scores a clean victory, which makes sense as something she might have wanted a chance to do. Miki, meanwhile, gets left out of the movie’s duels - out of the student council members, he’s the one Utena most sees as not fitting them.

The odd ones out of course are Akio, Touga, and in a different sense, Shiori. Akio has changed to match Utena and Anthy’s developed understanding of him: still trying to present a “cool” persona, but now clearly seen as a thin veneer over a pathetic creep who crumbles as soon as his attempts to control his sister fall through. Meanwhile, Utena also has to work through her feelings around her “prince”, and understanding that Akio does not live up to that ideal, she projects them elsewhere onto Touga, the other boy who approached her the night she hid in the coffin. Both Akio and Touga, for this reason, become specters hanging over Utena and Anthy, who they must leave in the past to proceed.

With Touga pulled out of his normal role, Nanami appears to get uprooted as well, leaving a vacant “mean girl” role that Shiori steps up to fill. Shiori also takes on Nanami’s attraction towards Touga, and the two show up as a couple. We see this in a scene where Shiori tells Touga about the prince she used to have, who drowned... except we learn later that that prince was Touga, and he’s already dead. Yet Shiori has no recollection of the drowned boy being Touga, he’s able to talk to her and paint her nails, and he talks on the phone with Akio who we also learn is already dead. What’s going on?

Utena turns out to be repressing memories of Touga’s death, and the only other one Touga is able to interact with seems to be Anthy, who has the excuse of being Anthy. But there’s no other sign of Shiori also participating in this kind of repression, or of a reason why she would feel the need to, and no other sign of Akio wandering the school as a ghost as Touga appears to. The only way I can think of to make sense of this is: Touga and Akio were both alive during this scene.

Touga and Akio’s deaths must have taken place chronologically before their phone conversation, but we’re in a weird mindscape created from perceptions. My conjecture is that because the events and memories in this false reality are artificial, Akio’s death (and by extension Touga’s) only became established as part of this reality around when the shadow girls played the tape of Akio drugging Anthy, rewriting the world and overwriting their previous scenes.

But the tape isn’t the cause of the revelation of who Akio really was, only the vehicle for it. The drug tape scene directly follows a pair of scenes with Utena and Anthy: the one where Utena accuses Anthy of sleeping with Touga (Akio) and the two end up dancing together, and the one where the two of them draw each other and Utena sees the stab wound Akio inflicted on Anthy. This suggests that what really happened is, Utena and Anthy growing closer together started to unlock their memories of the damage Akio did, which then rewrote the mindscape accordingly.

(The phone scene also takes place around the same time as the pool scene, where a row of students fades into thin air mid-stride - another reminder that reality may not have the tightest grip here.)

Eventually, Utena and Anthy have to confront and accept the “deaths” of Akio and Touga. This is when Utena finally remembers that there’s an “outside world” where they should go, and... transforms into a car. Which is, of course, very silly, especially when looking at the movie alone. But the show establishes Akio’s cars and mastery of roads as symbols and components of his power over the students and his sexual abuse of them. So it makes perfect sense that Utena finally getting free of Akio’s domain would involve her and Anthy taking to the road themselves in their own car, fleeing Akio’s fleet of cars.

During the car chase, Wakaba, Juri, Miki, and Saionji show up to help Utena and Anthy out of the tunnel. This is another thing that seems odd in the movie alone but makes much more sense if it follows the show. In the movie, Utena has only started getting to know Wakaba and clashed with Juri and Saionji, while I don’t think we ever see her or Anthy even talk to Miki. But in the show, they get a lot closer - not so much with Saionji, but he at least shows some capacity to do things that aren’t terrible. The council members talk about being inspired to find their own way to the outside world - which, if everyone here other than Utena and Anthy is a mindscape construct, isn’t actually possible, but it does fit their real selves back in the original Ohtori.

Eventually, Anthy encounters Akio and refuses his demands to stay bound to his world, she and Utena blast past him and Utena turns back to human. Utena and Anthy remember that they’re from the outside world and that they defeated Akio together - which again, makes no sense in the movie alone, but does make sense if it’s a sequel to the show and they’ve been trapped here after their clash with Akio. Meanwhile, the shadow girls get revealed to be straw constructs, which again suggests the movie’s Ohtori as fake.

In the end, Utena and Anthy drive off together, finally free from Akio. It’s exactly the victory that was missing from the show itself, completing it.

[blushing-titan]

Reasons why I believe the cabin vision was Mikasa’s dream - and not an AU

I briefly touched upon this topic in my previous Mikasa/Anti Eremika-themed interpretation, but in this post I’d like to elaborate further - why do I think that the vision from chapter 138 was Mikasa’s dream, and not an actual AU flashback? As in my previous post, a little warning first: there will be spoilers, as I’ll be using panels from the manga.

1. I want to go back...back to our home

Many fans interpreted this as Mikasa having a flashback to alternate reality, in which she and Eren share a cabin in the mountains - a reality in which they’re both living safely and peacefully. However, it’s important to remember that for Mikasa, the meaning of home is very symbolic - it’s been shown ever since the first chapters of the manga:

After losing her biological parents, she feels like she has nowhere to go - her home was just taken away from her. She’s cold and scared...but then, as dr Jeager invites her to live with his family, Eren wraps his scarf around her and says:

...to which she simply replies: ...okay. Let’s go home. She has just been saved, and despite all the horrible things that happened previously, she has a home again - a home symbolised by the good-hearted boy who wrapped his scarf around her when she was cold. In the following years, this fact becomes a source of her strength and will to fight...

...but, as the time goes by, the boy who saved her changes and seems to be drifting away from her. She feels like she’s losing him, so this time it’s her turn to ask:

My point is that ever since they met, Eren has always symbolised home for Mikasa. He has been her safety, anchor and source of strength - which is why it’s so hard for her to accept that, after all his wrongdoings, he may not be the same person that he was when he wrapped the scarf around her. I believe that’s what she meant by saying: I want to go back to our home - in fact, she even thinks about his old self right before the cabin sequence starts:

Now, onto the second argument...

2. Mikasa idealizes Eren in her mind.

I’ve seen opinions that Mikasa views Eren through rose-colored glasses - and it’s not entirely untrue. When he saved her, she created an idealized image of him in her mind - she perceives him as a good-hearted, caring person who would never willingly go against his friends or hurt any innocent people. No matter what he does, she still tries to see him through this filter. It’s the reason why she often misunderstands him.

(Notice how even Armin is concerned by Mikasa’s answer.)

In another example, Mikasa tries to justify Eren’s actions by saying that he had done it all out of care for his friends.

Knowing all that, it makes perfect sense that the Eren from her dream would be an idealized version, too. He openly acts affectionate with her and is devoid of any fiery or violent character traits of the original Eren. Instead of hurting (or saving) anyone, he runs away with Mikasa to spend his last years peacefully, just with her. 

Many fans caught up that this version of him is quite OOC, as it goes against everything that his character represented up to this point. He has always been a fighter, dedicated to his goal of achieving freedom. Therefore, the decision to run away from problems (...along with his general behaviour in the cabin vision) just seems off to many people...but what about Mikasa’s goals? Quite frankly, they perfectly align with what’s shown in the dream - she just wants to be with Eren and keep him safe from harm...

...and yet, with the way Eren is, it’s simply impossible for her in reality...

...so she creates this scenario in her mind, as a way to comfort herself. In fact, it may have been suggested that she’s been dreaming about living away from danger with Eren ever since her training days - she even proposes that they could go back to the settlement together. Ironically, Eren leaves as she’s speaking, without her even noticing - instead, he wants to get stronger to keep on fighting.

3. Author’s note

A while after ch.138 came out, the information about the particular author’s note appeared on the internet. It said (35) draw Mikasa’s ideal, which (to my understanding) suggested that the vision was based on Mikasa's ideal answer to the question asked by Eren a few chapters earlier.

As we know, her answer was family. Later on, she wonders if she could have changed anything by giving him a different reply. Therefore, I believe the cabin dream was based on what she really wanted to say back then, and how she wanted for the following events to unfold.

I’ve seen many fans theorize that the vision was a flashback of the AU in which she gave him a different answer. I’ve said that in my previous interpretation, but I’ll gladly say it once again - Mikasa’s reply shouldn’t have such a huge impact on the future of the entire world. She should never feel guilty about it, as, at the end of the day, Eren went on with the rumbling and it was his decision. I really dislike how much weight the AU theory puts on Mikasa and her answer, when in fact, if Eren really wanted to give up on his plan, he simply would have done it. He had a lot of occasions to stop, one of which being a collective plea from all of his friends - including Mikasa. 

In fact, if he really wanted to run away with her, he could propose this idea himself - however, the fact that it’s clearly stated that her “correct” answer was required for it to happen makes me strongly believe that the vision was indeed Mikasa’s dream, based on her ideal reply.

4. Plot mechanics

Due to the fact that Mikasa’s See you later, Eren appears in the first manga chapter, many people speculated that it must be because Eren somehow saw a glimpse of an actual AU, dismissing the possibility that he could have seen Mikasa’s mindscape. Personally, I’ve never understood this argument - mostly because we already have a few complicated (...and not fully explored) plot mechanics in SnK that could explain this phenomenon - one of them being paths/founder titan’s power.

Ackermans are supposed to be immune to the founder’s ability to alter memories, however Mikasa is still a subject of Ymir. Therefore, as shown in the manga, she can manifest in the paths, meaning that Eren is able to connect and talk with her telepathically. Thanks to that, I don’t think it’s impossible that he may have seen her dreams/memories through paths, even without altering them - and from there, transfer these memories to his child self. Even more - this could also have been done by the original founder - Ymir Fritz - who’s been observing the entire interaction. At this point, it’s implied that she doesn’t have to be ordered by anyone anymore, so it’s perfectly reasonable to think that she acts out of her own free will.

Taking this into consideration, what’s the point in introducing an entirely new and confusing plot device (ability to experience AUs) when the story is one chapter away from finish? In my opinion, there are enough matters that need proper closure and questions to be answered in these final 45 pages - adding a new plotline only complicates everything more, when it should be the time to close up all the already existing ones.

That’s all from me today! Hope I managed to get my points across - thank you very much for reading! ❤️ All the manga panels used above obviously don’t belong to me - all credits go to the author!

[theredandwhitequeen]

Roswell New Mexico thoughts episode 5 Max and tezca from last episode Talking You’re not only the only one who knows things …Serves a purpose Using powers on max, that are Max’s Show you who you were meant to become Burned Jones body Sounds Max and Liz, Jenna, Michael  Jenna has blue eyes now Hand print  Max not worried about Tezca Eduardo still missing  Mexico Kyle Valenti Floating pod Isobel arrived Surgery Dallas and Maria Using powers The necklace  Thinks memory of necklace and father on earth Revivalist church Michael and Max Talking about relationships with Liz and Alex Choking Tezca in Max’s dream in cam’s body Mindscape  I don’t think you are fine with who you are…. Squeezing his organs Michael …I’m capable of more… It’s all a bad idea, but it’s the idea we got. Michael going to find Eduardo and Max going back to Liz Jenna and Liz Max is only going to tell me when he’s ready…. I love Jenna Isobel and Kyle Two alien surgeries  Menudo Talking about Anatsa I needed to leave Roswell…. It’s a relief being around you… Found a book Eduardo gone Michael and Clyde Clyde looks grumpy Looking for you then I saw the rope. Bonnie been gone hours ago, angry, conflicted, she’s powerful Kyle and Isobel  Brought artifacts to casita  Alma was Hector’s wife Protecting the aliens Other alien Michael and Clyde Looking for Bonnie Worst alternative  The grass is greener on the other side Humans are obsessed with illusion of happiness…. Clyde didn’t have a home Oasis is not perfect, but it could be Max and Jenna DNA Alien freeing cocktail Calls him out Jenna wasn’t supposed to be on case I don’t want to burden Liz I need to be able to save her back  Don’t mess this up with Liz Dallas and Maria At a barn I think I’ve been here before Young Dallas and his dad Necklace is home With your gifts you can help it grow Tree that they planted is still here Maria and Dallas’s stories connected because picture of tree in Mimi’s wedding book Kyle and Isobel Kyle’s cousin Empty pod was kept Hasn’t talked to Eduardo awhile ago Allie Myers  Used powers Tezca stole artifact Michael looking for Bonnie and found her listening to music He’s really important to my boyfriend Didn’t hurt him Going to run. Wants Max Tell me where Eduardo is Cam and Liz Tells her to make Max talk Old Sutter’s farm max and Tezca Mindscape How do I have these powers? Why are you so interested in me? Capacity to create blue flame Teach me to control it…. Broke the link with Tezca Cage can’t hold me Cage fight with Tezca Ophicus has foreseen it  It’s a movement a path Liz and Cam Jenna’s eyes changed back I’ve been called intrepid  Liz  Max uses powers and hurt Liz Max trying to heal Liz Healed her Talking it out Share the blame for today Bonnie and Clyde and Michael First time is hard Michael gave the piece and seeing the stars Sees Oasis Isobel and Kyle Taking pictures Drinks Just openness….possibility… she wasn’t my person… To revalalations about love and aliens Dancing What’s opposite  Beautiful actually  Kissing Maria and Liz The first glass is a thank you, the rest is an apology  Told her she lost visions There’s nothing to fix…. You gave me an actual future…. It’s just a friend…. Hugging Oh dear Max and Jenna Talking about Liz I once really cared for you too…  Bonnie and Clyde Gave her a guitar Sweet Michael staring at sky Dallas Friendship  It’s not food it’s fuel Michael’s powers not working  Sick Aliens don’t get sick Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

I love this episode and it’s so nuts

I miss Rosa and Alex

So is Rosa missing because Amber was filming the Predator movie?

Mad World, good choice for the end of the episode

I’m worried about my Michael

Isobel and Kyle kissing. He hasn’t broken up with his new friend yet. I forget her name

Also mentions of Allie again.

I don’t want Jenna to leave.

I’m so happy Dallas was there for Michael.

Are Arturo and Alex together?

[spectralscathath]

Like-Minded Souls, Indeed?

Because this was exactly what Mercury needed, the voice of someone his boss killed showing up in his head and telling him to save the world. No thank you. Not unless you paid him.

Meanwhile, on Ozpin's side of things, he would like to very much not be found out by Salem. That would be... unfortunate.

Ao3 Link

Chapter 1: In Which Neither Mercury Nor Ozpin Can Ever Catch A Break

Ozpin felt the tugs of Ozma's magic at the corners of his mind, the limbo of their incarnations finally broken as a like-minded soul was bonded with.

He awoke in the back of someone's mind, still bleary as though he was physically waking up from a deep sleep. The mindscape was quiet with a forced calm, tension like pulled strings threading through the soul of this new individual and ready to snap at the slightest touch.

He looked out a set of new eyes, to see if it was a good time to introduce himself, and felt ancient fear flood through him at the sight of Ozma's oldest and most terrible foe. Oh. Oh no. This was very bad. This was quite possibly the worst place he could incarnate.

Salem herself, smiling at the girl who had killed him under Beacon. To die in fire was not an experience the countless souls wanted to repeat, and Ozpin was unfortunate enough to join the ranks of the few predecessors who’d suffered such a painful death.

He chose to say nothing, instead observing the way silver strands of hair fell over the side of his vision, how the body ached with phantom pains that were not Ozpin's, and wisely retreated back into the mind.

Perhaps another time.

Perhaps when Mr Mercury Black was not currently surrounded by danger.

After all, they both had to make the best of things now. He could only hope that Mr Black would be the type who could be persuaded away from Salem.

If not, then this was going to be... difficult.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ozpin had been a father, so many lifetimes before. He had never been perfect, he had made countless mistakes across Ozma's many lifetimes, he accepted them all as his failures, so he could learn from them and do better in the next life.

He had given his second life in a futile attempt to save his daughters, and sometimes wondered if he regretted his choices. Should he have stayed? If he had stayed, would he still be alive? Would his children still be alive?

The look Marcus Black wore in so many of Mercury's memories reminded him too much of Salem to ever again regret his attempt to escape her clutches.

He had been waiting a long time, studying Mercury’s routine so he could find the safest time to breach the gap between them. He had to say, this was an opportunity like no other, to see what Salem’s plans were without detection, but with great reward came terrible risk. All it would take was one slip, and they’d both be dead. Or worse. And if he did nothing, then all the knowledge he could gain would be for naught.

So he waited until they were alone before he could chance speaking to him, until Mercury had retreated to his corners and locked the door, shoving a chair under the handle as was his custom. He was paranoid, which was a very fair response to the situation. The massive wardrobe must have taken some shoving to put it in the path of the window, but it certainly did prevent any unwelcome visitors who might see it as a means of entry.

The bed pushed into the corner was wise as well, to put his back to a wall,  although the fact that Mercury piled his pillows under the covers as a decoy and then slept under the bed itself might have been pushing it somewhat.

He waited until Mercury was sitting on the bed, looking over his weapons and performing any upkeep needed, the faint cyan glow from the vents in his prosthetics lining his silver fringe.

Mr Black, don’t be alarmed.

“What the FUCK?!” Mercury bolted upright, knife in hand as he looked around, head swinging to every potential place an intruder could be. “Who’s there?!”

Professor Ozpin. He had to think quickly. Don’t tell Salem or she will kill you. This is part of my curse as her opponent, I must incarnate into a new mind with every death, and I am now currently in yours.

“No the fuck you are not.” Mercury snarled. “Show yourself, come out and face me.”

I can’t, actually. He should try and enter Mercury’s dream. He personally had never done that, but Ozma had, so therefore he had as well… hadn’t he? It seemed the lines were blurring between himself and Ozma already. More than they had been when he was alive. He’d been one of the more compatible hosts, on account of not having anything that really needed Ozpin Headley more than it needed Ozma-in-Ozpin’s-head.

“Nope. Okay. I’ve gone mad. I’ve been up too long.”

That is true. Mercury had a terrible case of insomnia, it seemed. Though with the night terrors he had, it was understandable. He was about to have a whole lot more, once the merge hit the point where Ozpin was able to fade into the memory consciousness, just as Ozana had when she had joined the other incarnations in the depths of their shared subconscious.

He was hoping he could spare the young man the nightmares from hundreds of deaths. Ten thousand years was a long time to live and die and live again. Mr Black, I assure you, this is not an ideal situation for me either, but you must understand that you are not crazy and that I am now-

“Taking up residence in my head like a fucking pervert? What, running a school wasn’t enough for you to get your sick kicks?” Mercury snarled at him.

Okay, that was uncalled for. Mr Black, that is very untrue. This is just something that happens . After all, someone had to stop Salem.

“Fuckin- alright, fine, so I’ve gone mad. What else is new?” Mercury grumbled, sitting back down and angrily sharpening a knife.

You’re very sane, I assure you. Ozana had told him something similar, if a bit less polite.

“Right, I’m talking to a voice in my head while living in a castle owned by some sort of humanoid Grimm witch, that’s the definition of sanity.” Mercury snarked at him.

If you can believe Salem’s existence, then surely you can believe mine?

“I don’t believe anything you say. Can you go back to shutting up?” Mercury’s anger was a tangible force in their head, not like a wildfire, but more like a poison, something that slowly corroded whatever it touched. It was a very cold anger.

I’m afraid not. I must insist that you leave this place before Salem finds out of my presence, or she WILL kill you then and there. Or worse. There could be so much worse. Salem had been around far longer than he had, by sheer virtue of her immortality working differently. It had left her with a large pool of creative methodology for causing pain, many of which had been lost to time.

He didn’t want to undergo that as much as Mercury likely wouldn’t want to either, so that meant leaving was their best choice. He’d been listening in on a few of the meetings that Salem had hosted, finding out that Haven was the next target, and Vacuo after that. He’d also found that she hadn’t yet obtained the Crown of Choice, but that she did still have at least one operative in Vale looking. He wished them luck. He personally had decided to move the Beacon Vault and hide it a little better after he took over the school.

There was no way Salem’s people could find it. Not without his knowledge. Or Jinn’s knowledge.

He had to keep Jinn out of Salem’s reach. If summoned, she wouldn’t choose not to answer Salem’s question. She didn’t have that sense of morality. To the Relics, all that mattered was their task, and the rules that bound them to it.

So, Mercury, when do we leave?

“You’re stupid.” Mercury told him bluntly. “We’re on another continent with no way off that isn’t controlled by Salem. There is no leaving. At least not until she sends me out on a job. So here’s the deal, you shut the fuck up, and then maybe when I’m out of this creepy fucking castle, we can talk.” Ozpin could hear the lie in there. Mercury had zero intentions of ever talking to him again.

But it was a good idea, for safety’s sake. He would have to be a silent observer. After all, the walls could have ears.

Besides, once they were out on a job, so to speak, he could simply start talking again. After all, that was the letter of the potential agreement, if not Mercury’s intention.

Agreed. I will see you when we are in the clear.

“Piss off.” Mercury grumped at him, and just this once, Ozpin chose to comply. He could use the time to gather information, and silence was a small price to pay for that.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mercury followed Emerald, Watts, and Cinder into the safehouse Lionheart had brought for them, feeling a strange sense of betrayal flood him that was definitely not his. He realised it was probably Ozpin, who had so far remained quiet during the flight out of Evernight, meeting up with Watts, and going over battleplans for confronting Raven Branwen.

He’d been tuned in just to see what his role was (he was Thug #2, the muscle who was meant to stand there and possibly kill someone if that kind of point had to be made), and was allowed to be basically invisible beyond that. He watched as Cinder went to cook herself dinner, and since she knew she controlled Emerald through food and shelter, probably Emerald as well. Mercury could cook for himself, if he had to, and Watts could starve for all they cared.

He wasn’t hungry anyway. Too busy trying to hold off on the wrenching nausea in his gut that was not his. “See ya, Em.” He shrugged at her, holding up his scroll. “I’m gonna play some Amid You. See ya tomorrow.”

“See ya, Merc.” She waved him off. She’d gotten a bit more tolerable since they got trapped together in the deathworld that was Salem’s castle. Not that they were friendly or anything. Just tolerable.

He made his way up the stairs and into one of the rooms, making sure it wasn’t the fanciest one because he’d let Cinder and Watts duke out ownership of that one. He locked the door, looking for something he could shove against it and picking the bedside table. It’d do.

He checked the window lock and pulled the curtains over, sitting on the bed as he played music on his scroll to mask the fact that he could be talking to himself, if only to tell Ozpin to shut the fuck up with the sadness.

“Alright asshole, what’s the problem.”

I can’t believe Leo would fall this far. Ozpin sounded fucking miserable. Sucks for him, he got betrayed. What happened to him? He was a hero for so long…

“People suck, get over it.” Seriously, if he’d been around since the asscrack of time, then he should know that.

Not always. Some people are good. It makes it hurt all the more when some of them turn out to… well. Stick a knife in your back . Ozpin sighed, impressive for a man who didn’t have a body or lungs. So. Now we can discuss you leaving this group and helping protect the Relic of Knowledge.

“Yeah, no, not happening. If there’s a mole on the inside of your old team, then me buggering off from Cinder is only gonna end up with us dead, which is that thing you didn’t want, right? After all, Leo runs Haven, and those kids Watts mentioned? First years and a drunken Huntsman. Haven’s dead meat.”

We have to try. Salem cannot be allowed to obtain any of the Relics.

“Nah. We have to survive. I’m not dying just because you wanna be a hero.” Mercury kicked his boots and greaves off, since he was out of Evernight, twirling his ankle a bit and listening to the metallic clicking the joint made.

Mr Black, I must insist. If the Vault in Haven is opened, it could go very badly. Besides, Qrow is my friend. I’d rather not risk him being hurt.

“Hey, the plan involves not going near Qrow. It’s a simple sneak in, sneak out, and the White Fang blow up the school a few days later. No one’s getting hurt, except for Lionheart. Clock’s ticking on his usefulness.” The plan was easy compared to Cinder’s weird domino pieces plan for taking down Beacon. He preferred the Haven plan that was clearly Salem and Watts’s idea. It was simple, no muss, no fuss. Easy pickings.

Gonna be great to see how Cinder’s rampaging ego ruined it, something easy like this clearly wouldn’t fuel her proud streak. She was just like Marcus. Always wanted a challenge. That was why he saved cutting off a target’s semblance for a finishing blow in his assassinations.

Haven Academy is important, Mercury, you can’t just let it be blown up! I won’t stand by while Salem steals the Relic and destroys another Academy! I can’t!

“All the Huntsman in Mistral are either dead or useless, gramps.” Mercury rolled his eyes. “Academy’s already useless. You should focus on the relic.” Maybe if he came up with another plan it’d get Ozpin off his back.

I don’t play to win at all costs, Mr Black. I try to protect as many pieces on the board as I can.

“That’s why you’re losing,” Mercury collapsed back on the bed, hooking his hands behind his head as he got comfortable. “How about another deal? We wait for Cinder to get the Relic. Watts has to go back to Evernight after dealing with Branwen, so the trip back will be me, her, and Emerald. Cinder won’t be expecting an attack, so how about we kill her, steal the ship, and then you can take the Relic wherever you want?”

And Emerald? Ozpin queried. Would you be killing her in this sneak attack as well?

That made him pause for a moment. Would he kill Emerald? Probably not, he didn’t need to. Cinder was absolutely a threat who had to be taken out as quickly as possible, but Emerald? Nah. “She’d probably get all butthurt that Cinder’s dead or whatever, but I don’t see why she should die as well. Worse comes to worst we’ll knock her out. We’d be doing her a favour, honestly. You’ve seen how Cinder treats her.” The fact that Ozpin was constantly watching everything was real fucking unnerving and something he tried to not think about at all times.

Hmmmm… Ozpin deliberated for ages, which made Mercury think he was probably scheming away. Whatever. Mercury wasn’t going to fall for any of it. What could a voice in his head do? Get sad at him? You think you can kill Cinder?

“I think that I’ve been watching how she fights for nearly two years now and that she’s got a massive blind spot on her left side.” It wouldn’t be easy, but it would be manageable. Amber got taken out too, after all. “You got anything that would help? Cinder said you put up a fight in that basement where she killed you.” He hoped that was uncomfortable to talk about. If he had to be disquieted by sharing headspace with a weirdo, so should Ozpin.

Yes. I have some magical ability left that can, at the very least, level the playing field a little bit. It’s not as strong as the Maiden’s magic, but if applied correctly, it could work.

Sounded like Ol’ Oz was coming around to ‘fuck everyone else, I got what I want in the end’. Selfish thinking won again. Why waste energy on stopping the destruction of a school when Cinder could be allowed to think she won and Mercury could then use that pride against her to escape this whole messed-up situation.

After all, Salem might be remaking the world and had offered to make him one of the top dogs, but in the pecking order, he was still near the bottom of the ladder. Besides, he did have her worst enemy in his head.

Escape was definitely the best option. “And hey, if she’s planning on attacking Vacuo after, think your buddy in Atlas would let us bunker down there?” If they did it right, then no one would know what happened. Cinder would be too dead to talk, Emerald would be a flight risk but he could probably talk her into not going back to work for Salem, and he sure wouldn’t tell anyone.

Yes. James can be trusted.

Just like Lionheart could, Mercury thought, but this one he kept to himself. “So. Deal?”

I don’t like this. It’s cruel and callous.

“I’m Mercury Black, have we met?” Why would he want to be anything else? The world was cruel. The only way to win was to take what you had and fight for what you wanted. No rules. No lines. Those made people weak.

… Very well. I’ll agree, for now.

“Then we’re done for tonight.”

I suppose we are. Thank you for hearing me out.

Mercury blinked perturbedly. Did he just get thanked? Weird. “Uh- sure. Whatever.”

Ozpin sounded way too amused as he chuckled, Mercury’s hackles rising only slightly. Good night, Mr Black.

Mercury snorted and didn’t bother replying, reaching for his scroll as he switched his music off and went into the games folder. Yeah it was gonna be a good night. He was gonna play video games til his eyes fell out and not sleep.

He supposed this situation with Ozpin could have been worse. At least the guy kept to himself and didn’t make a nuisance. If Mercury had to have a creepy man in his head talking to him, it could have been a lot worse. Could have had a Tyrian in there. Or a Watts.

Or his dad.

Mercury’s nose scrunched. Wouldn’t that be awful. Least Ozpin knew which of them was in control.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was chaos in Haven Academy’s foyer. Mercury dodged a wild swing from Yang, flipping back in a handspring as he errantly observed the room. Ozpin had not been happy about the ‘kill everyone’ plan but whatever, they were here now. Ozpin had been a lot louder since then and was still there, still currently losing his mind in the back of Mercury’s head. Mercury tried to tune most of it out. Wasn’t easy.

Mercury, please! This can’t be what you want! Ozpin begged as Mercury watched that kid in the green get thrown through a wall by Hazel. Ozpin always went real quiet around him. He wondered why. They’re just children!

He didn’t answer back, because fuck it, what did he know? Being a kid didn’t mean shit. Where was ‘just children’ when Marcus beat him up daily? Nowhere, that’s where.

You have to stop this! You’ll never be able to get the Relic now, the plan won’t work! This is our only chance!

He dodged another gunshot from Yang, which was criminally easy, she definitely had not gotten faster since their last fight, and checked in on the only threat. Qrow was- oh fuck he had stopped fighting Raven, disengaging from that little sibling duel to charge Hazel, landing a blow to the guy’s back with enough force that Hazel’s knee hit the ground. Mercury swore it dented from the weight behind that blow.

No no no no no no-

He whistled as he caught Yang’s kick in one of his own, forcing her leg down and scoring a punch directly to the floating ribs. Her eyes went red for a moment as she swung a hook at him, one that he dodged again, knocking her around with a few more kicks to the head. Had she gotten sloppier? He would be ashamed to fight this badly.

Mercury. Please. Don’t make me do this.

He glanced over at where Qrow was nimbly dodging Hazel’s blows before a cheap shot from Lionheart hit him in the shoulder, knocking his footwork off-balance long enough that Hazel got his hands on Qrow.

Mercury I’m so sorry-

“What-” Mercury asked before his vision flashed gold, and he was shunted into the back of his own head. Suddenly he was the voice, and Ozpin was in control- he had no control over his own body, no way to stop as Ozpin took a running leap, leaving a confused Yang behind, and landed a kick into the side of Hazel’s head, the shotgun blasting right in his ear.

Ozpin had took over. Ozpin… could take over. And he’d never mentioned it. He’d never-

Qrow looked at them, utterly dumbfounded. The entire room had gone dead quiet as Ozpin-in-Mercury’s-body artfully landed between Qrow and Hazel, not taking his eyes off the latter. Then he spoke with Mercury’s voice but it wasn’t Mercury’s words and it wasn’t right-

“I’d like my cane back, if you wouldn’t mind, Qrow.”

Cinder was staring. Emerald was staring. Everyone was staring as Mercury was turned into a fucking puppet, all his control stolen away. He hadn’t even known Ozpin could- He’d thought-

His view of their- their, not his- vision tunnelled, greying out at the edges. Haven wasn’t there anymore. It was just that house. His room. The smell of whiskey and blood and cigarette burns-

And Mercury clocked out, brain going black with panic.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He felt hands on his shoulders even though there were no hands on his shoulders, pulling him out of the darkness and shoving him back in the driver’s seat. He blinked, collapsed against a wall with a cane handle in his hand and Qrow leaning over him, the smell of alcohol on the other man’s breath hitting some button in his head too close too close-

“Get AWAY from me!” He shrieked, kicking him full in the chest and loosing a shotgun blast to make sure the point got across, the Relic clattering on the ground as Qrow lost his grip on it. His hand clenched on the cane handle so hard it was shaking, and he threw that away as hard as he could.

Mercury, I am so sorry, I swear, I didn’t want to ever have to do that to you, but you left me no choice-

“ Shut up!” He snapped, voice ragged and a little too raw as he pulled his knees defensively to his chest and dug his fists into silver hair, tugging until the burn on his scalp felt like he was pulling Ozpin’s voice out of his head.

He heard footsteps come closer and looked up from his defensive curl, a knife appearing in his hand as he met Lil Red’s silver eyes, wide with concern and simmering with underlying resentment. “Professor Ozpin?”

Mercury, you have to understand, we can’t let Salem get the Relic-

He remembered a similar look on her face when she saw him walking again in the maintenance hall of Amity Colosseum. He snarled back this time, instead of a cocky smirk. “No. Come near me and I’ll rip your fucking face off.”

“Don’t talk to my sister like that!” Yang snapped, her eyes bright red as she glared at him, the Schnee keeping a hand on her shoulder to keep her in line. Fucking try it, Blondie, he’d take her other arm off, they could match.

Ruby wisely took a step back, still easily too close for him to handle. “Mercury?” her hand twitched towards the gun on her back

Mercury? Will you let me explain?

“All of you shut up.” He glared at the Relic, kicking it away as he jumped to his feet. He couldn’t handle this. It was too much, too much control lost- and Emerald wasn’t there, FUCK. So much for doing her a favour. He looked at everyone, feeling cornered, skin alive with fire ants that weren’t really there and legs burning with phantom aches, and did the only thing he could do when fighting wasn’t the option.

He bolted, clearing the stairs behind him and disappearing into Haven Academy, picking a random room that wasn’t Lionhearts (he was not going NEAR a fucking Seer, no thank you) and locking the door.

Mercury, I truly am sorry. I never meant to hurt you. Ozpin told him gently, and the worst thing was that he sounded like he meant it.

“Don’t ever talk to me again.” Mercury snarled, and started breaking everything in the room that he could get his hands on.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Man, Ozpin's sections got deeper then I expected but then again the guy has identity issues for sure. Where does Ozma end and Ozpin begin? Things we will literally never know!

[lovelivingmydreams]

Paper Flowers: Someting there

Okay so 85 people liked this concept, 19 of which felt the need to reblog. So I’m doing this.

The title is a reference I thought was nice and fitting because I have no clue what else to call this au. So it’s the paper flowers au. Don’t think about it too much.

Okay so this story is going to have two perspectives. 1 that of a Fander watching not only Thomas’ video’s but also the community’s response to it. And 2 a third person telling of the going ons in the mindscape between Roman and Virgil. Let’s do this!

January 2016

Roman was not in a good mood.

He was helping Thomas rehearse for tonight’s performance and Anxiety was distracting him!

“Will you shut up about the lights for two minutes!?” he demanded.

Anxiety glared at him for a moment before smirking. “Sure, want to talk about that creacking floorboard instead? I don’t trust it,” he offered, making Roman throw his hands up and scream to the heavens in frustration. “I am trying to work here!” he pointed out.

Anxiety shrugged. “So am I,” he states.

Roman just huffed. Right.

“Thomas! Ready for a run through?” the director asked.

“Um… Yeah,” Thomas smiled nervously. That drew the attention of both sides.

“Well, here goes,” Anxiety sighed.

“Don’t listen to him Thomas. You’ll do great,” Roman declared.

“Wait, read over your cues one more time,” Anxiety insisted. And of course Thomas followed. Roman would complain but these kinds of things did no real harm, quite the opposite, so he’d learned to let these things be. It would be exhausting to put a stop to all of Anxiety’s meddling.

And when it came to rehearsing lines and the like… Roman occasionally had to concede a point to him.

Once Thomas took note of his cues for the scene he and his fellow cast members took their places.

Anxiety made Thomas avoid the creaking board as if it were cursed, but other than that he was only a mild annoyance. And that was when it happened.

The scene was over and everyone was talking and reading lines as they left the stage, Thomas was telling a story to a fellow actress when his foot Anxiety suddenly jumped.

“Cables!” he warned and Thomas stepped over the wires, almost absentmindedly. His friend however had been too immersed in the story and tripped.

“Catch her!” Anxiety ordered. And Thomas, who’d been frozen in shock at first sprung in action to save her from an unpleasant fall.

“That was close. Guess your inner prince really came through on this one,” she giggled as Thomas helped her regain her balance.

Roman meanwhile was staring at Anxiety in shock. Did he just…

Anxiety didn’t notice though, he just left for his room, mumbling something about being exhausted and needing sleep before the premier.

That was fine. Roman had a lot to think about.

He went to his own room first an started to compile a list of things he’d seen Anxiety say and do. But he quickly grew frustrated by how incomplete his recollection seemed. So he knocked on Logan’s door.

“Roman? What brings you here?” Logan asked surprised.

“Hi calculatorwatch, I was… Talking to Anxiety earlier and he said something that made me wonder… Well could you perhaps give me a log of my conversations with him for the past month? Anything he said when I was in the room with him would be helpful.”

Logan quirked a brow. “Why are you in need of such information? Surely you recall these conversations yourself?” he wondered.

“Yes… But I need his exact words. And it’s not like I’m asking for anything he wouldn’t say to my face.”

Logan seemed to find that explanation good enough as he disappeared for a minute before returning with a thick binder.

“These are copies so you are free to hold on to them.”

Roman accepted the binder. “My sincere thanks. I shall see you at dinner.”

An hour later Roman was just puzzled. Sure there were lots of insults in here from both sides. But… There was also solid evidence that at least half the things Anxiety said might come from a place of genuine care for them all.

Anxiety had been pushing Thomas to rehears more than Roman ever could get him to do on his own. He had made him call up his friends and family to check in with them. He had him double check if he was up to date on his payments and if his fridge was stocked.

Roman nodded to himself. He was going to talk to Anxiety about this.

“What’s up Princey?” Anxiety asked casually as he leaned in his doorframe.

At least, that morning Roman would have considered it relaxed, he might even have considered his attitude patronizing. But now that he was looking at him, really looking, he saw the tenseness in his posture, the slight panic in his eyes.

“Anxiety… I would like for you to join me for a walk in the imagination. Something has been brought to my attention that I wish to speak to you about in private,” Roman explained.

Anxiety pushed himself off the doorframe and shoved his hands, balled to fists Roman noticed, into his hoodie pockets. He turned his face away. Rude, Roman used to think, but now he wondered: was he nervous?

“Fine,” Anxiety huffed as he closed his door behind him and followed Roman to the door to the imagination.

When Prince opened the door it showed a forest path. Through the trees to the west you could see the forest was going over a hillside, a late afternoon sun lit up the valley and a quaint little village in the distance.

“Neat,” Anxiety allowed.

“Thank you,” Roman said sincerely. Anxiety did a double take at that. Roman could understand. This was the longest they’d ever been in proximity to each other without either of them hurling insults at the other’s head.

They walked a few minutes in amicable silence.

“You good Princey?” Anxiety asked after a while.

“Roman,” he corrected.

“… what?” Anxiety asked incredulous.

“As much as I like the nickname, it feels inappropriate for a serious discussion. If you don’t mind,” he elaborated politely.

“Dude, you are starting to freak me out,” Anxiety hissed.

“Apologies. I was merely trying to find a good way to formulate this…” Roman stopped walking. The path had led them to the edge of the forest. Roman looked over the valley as he collected his thoughts.

“I wish to thank you for earlier today. You kept Thomas from falling and getting injured. And after you helped him help his friend. Thank you.” Roman looked at a wide eyed Anxiety. Once his fellow side realized he was caught in his surprise he tried to cover up. Folding his arms in front of his chest and looking away. “Whatever,” he mumbled. “You’re welcome or something.”

Roman wondered how he had not seen this before. His evasiveness, his defensiveness…

“And it made me think… A dangerous endeavor I know,” he joked, and he took pride in the fact that he saw Anxiety crack a smile.

“So I looked back over our encounters for the past month. And looking at your actions without the emotions of the moment involved, got me thinking… That I misjudged you.”

Anxiety’s head snapped back to him, Roman looked back without fear, this needed to be said.

“I assumed you were trying to hold Thomas back, to destroy his dreams. But… that is not who you are, is it?”

Roman watched as Anxiety processed his words, emotions flashing over his face.

Confusion, shock, fear, panic… And then he could see the walls going up as Virgil took that pose that Roman came to associate with their usual back and forth.

“You… I’m… What are you playing at? Is this some kind of sick joke Deceit?” he demanded.

“Rude. That snake wouldn’t be able to open the door to the imagination. Not even if Remus helped him. This is not his territory after all.” Roman pointed out.

Anxiety looked like he was about to argue, but deflated.

“Then… Are you having a laugh here? Because I don’t get it.” Anxiety looked Roman over as if he would be able to see the hidden dagger Roman was about to pull out.

“I am not… I misjudged you. I saw you as an enemy, while I could’ve had you as an ally.”

He offered his hand. “I propose a truce? A clean start?” he offered.

Anxiety looked from the hand to Roman’s face, analyzing every inch of his posture..

Then he nodded. “Okay… On one condition. You don’t tell the others a word.”

Roman nodded. He’d expected some sort of test of his sincerity. And he was determined to pass.

“I’m definitely going to regret this… Fine,” Anxiety sighed as he accepted Roman’s hand.

They weren’t friends. But there was definitely something there that wasn’t there before.

Part 2

[flutteringdreams-matw]

Out of Time (3/?)

Link to Ecto-Storm Series

First/Last

Summary: Paradoxes are tricky things - especially when it involves a 15 year old half ghost and his dark future living outside of the timeline. Danny is faced with impossible odds, out of control powers, haunting visions and three possible outcomes in his battle against his ultimate enemy. Sequel to Making to Grade - can be read as standalone. Updates on Sundays and the occasional Wednesday.

Sam rang the doorbell at Fentonworks three times, bouncing on her feet in anticipation. She glanced up at the green dome around the town, reflecting the sun that shone higher above. It had been up for a few hours now according to the news, but no word about why the shield was up in the first place. That included the lack of response from her half-ghost best friend.

"Sam!" Tucker called from behind. She turned to see the teen running up the sidewalk toward Fentonworks, waving to indicate his arrival.

"Any word?" She asked as he came to the steps.

"Not since Jazz texted," Tucker said, frowning.

The door swung open, revealing a tired looking Maddie Fenton to the teens. "Sorry kids, I was in the lab," she told them, ushering them inside. "It's been a long night."

"Where's Danny?" The question was out of Sam's mouth before the door even closed. "What happened?"

"Upstairs," Maddie replied, pursing her lips slightly as she looked up the stairs worriedly. "We'll explain in the kitchen."

The Fenton's kitchen looked like a war zone; various books and papers were scattered across the table with multiple broken inventions and cups of coffee filling whatever space they could. Jack was on the phone, talking loudly and pacing back and forth. Jazz sat staring at her laptop screen, glancing at the pile of weapons at her feet every so often. Sensing the newcomers, Jazz looked up. "Oh good, you're here," she said.

"What happened?" Sam repeated, looking at the chaos.

"Danny had another dream," Jazz explained, her expression turning dark. "Dad managed to wake him after a while, but he freaked out. He flew up to the Ops Center and put up the shield using one of his deeper energy levels. We've been up ever since making sure all our weapons are prepared."

"For what, exactly?" Tucker asked, eyebrow raised.

"Dan."

Sam gasped, exchanging worried looks with Tucker. "How long?" she probed.

"That, we're not sure about," Maddie said, leaning against the counter with a sigh. "Danny passed out after telling us about him."

Jack hung up the phone with a sigh, looking displeased. "Mads, Vladdy's going live at 9am; we're going to need to figure out what to say about the shield. He's going against it."

Maddie frowned at the mention of the mayor. "Jack, that's in 2 hours. We still don't know why he put it up in the first place!"

"You're sure it wasn't just a bad dream?" Tucker queried hopefully.

Jack nodded grimly. "There's no question. Whatever Danny saw, he believed it was real."

The group stood in silence as that sunk in. Sam frowned worriedly as she saw the toll of the night on the other Fentons. Realizing what was needed, she looked over at Jazz. "What can we do?"

Jazz looked at the girl gratefully. "I only met him briefly after Danny got stuck in the future," she said thoughtfully. "You guys saw more of what he can do. Other the peeler, what should we focus on in terms of weapons?"

"I think defense should be the top priority," Tucker rebutted, bringing his hand to his chin in thought. "Danny's not going to be able to keep the shield up and fight; getting a strong ghost shield could help buy some time. Something for the rest of the town too in case the shield goes down. Remember the Ghost King? Those creepy skeletons caused a lot of damage."

"If we recalibrate some of the bazookas for blasting use over transferring back to the Ghost Zone, that may also help," Sam added. "Dan's strong; we'll need things that will pack a punch."

Jack frowned. "Hold on - we're treating this like the Ghost King invasion? Isn't that overreacting a little bit?"

"No."

All five occupants of the kitchen turned to Danny's decisive response. He was dressed, but pale and clammy, leaning heavily against the door frame for support. In one arm he had a USB key, the other his backpack. He grimaced slightly as sparks of green ecto-energy appeared to move through his chest before he managed to suppress them and walk toward the table, silence following him.

"I didn't think you'd be up so soon," Jazz said with a frown, eying her brother worriedly.

Danny dropped into an open seat heavily, sighing. "Neither did I," he replied honestly. He turned to his attention to the information scattered in front of him. He sighed again, putting his elbows on the table and brought his thumbs to the bridge of his nose, holding his head up.

"You look awful," Tucker stated.

"Thanks Tuck, tell me more," Danny replied cynically. Maddie frowned in concern, walking over to the teen and knelt beside him.

"Danny, you really don't look well," Maddie told him softly. "How do you feel?"

"You mean other than holding up a shield above the entire town and dealing with the fact your worst enemy escaped?" he asked drily. Maddie didn't answer and waited until Danny exhaled. "I've been better," he admitted. "The shield is taking a lot out of me."

Maddie bit her lip, unsure if she should press him further on the topic. She looked over to Jack worriedly, who answered her unasked question by shaking his head. "What happened last night?" Maddie questioned instead.

Danny scrunched his eyes tightly as another set of sparks went through his chest. Once it subsided, he exhaled loudly. "I went into my mindscape again. We were in Clockwork's tower, but Clockwork wasn't there. The thermos Dan was trapped in was cracked and then it exploded, he escaped and then that set of dreams came back," he explained slowly. "Next thing I knew, Dad woke me up."

"And then you put up the shield," Sam surmised. Danny grunted in confirmation. "Are you sure what you saw was real?"

"Yeah," Danny breathed.

Sam sighed. "How long until he attacks Amity Park?"

Danny finally opened his eyes and sat up in the chair, looking at his family and friends around him. "I don't know," he said solemnly. "But that shield will buy us some time when he does show up. It's not letting anyone in."

"Wait… you're planning on keeping that shield up?" Sam asked him incredulously. "For how long?"

"As long as it takes," Danny said. Remembering the USB stick, he handed it to his Mother. "Here. It's my ghost file on Dan."

Maddie frowned at the offered storage device. "I thought we already had access to all your files?"

"Not this one," Danny replied darkly. "It has all the information that we need to figure out how to beat him." Danny glanced at the clock, frowning slightly. "We're going to be late," he announced, standing slowly.

"You're actually planning on going to school?!" Sam exclaimed angrily. "Danny, you just had electricity running through your body a minute ago. Don't you think you should take the day?"

Danny frowned, about to argue, before his left eye turned green and he faltered, more electricity flooding his body. With a cry of pain, he grabbed the chair he was just sitting on for support, vaguely hearing his name being called.

The green shield shone brilliantly, holding steady before he felt it shudder. Someone was attacking… from the inside? His vision shifted and he saw the white cape, blue skinned ghost attacking with various forms of pink energy. Vlad? Why was he attacking-

"Danny breathe!"

Danny was brought out of his vision, gasping for air, by his mother shaking his shoulders. As he readjusted, he realized he had fallen onto the floor. Sam was next to him, Tucker and Jazz were in front, all looking very worried. "What… happened?" he asked through gasps.

"Your eye changed colour," Sam told him. Maddie nodded to Sam and the girl moved closer to support her friend. "Then you lit up like Skulker's suit when it gets hacked and collapsed. You just sort of stared into space until your Mom got through to you."

"Did you see something?" Tucker queried. Danny nodded.

"Vlad," he said simply. "He's attacking the shield."

Maddie paused from where she was in the kitchen and turned to her son. "Are you sure?" she asked slowly. "Your father was just on the phone with him – he's doing a press conference about the shield this morning."

"Plasmius," Danny corrected quickly. Maddie pressed her lips together at the swift correction but said nothing. "I think he's trying to test the strength of it and whether he could bring it down."

"Here we go!" Jack boomed as he ran up the stairs from the lab; Danny hadn't even realized the man had left until now. In his hand, he held a small silver device with the shiny green Fenton logo on it. "The Fenton E-Scanner! Good thing we finished it yesterday."

Maddie took the device from her husband and walked over to her son, who eyed the device warily. "It's just an ecto-energy reader Danny," she assured, showing him the device. "Whatever you're doing is taking more energy than you realize." Once he nodded his consent, Maddie brought the scanner to his forehead. After a few seconds, it beeped and Maddie read the readings. She frowned slightly as she looked at the teens in front of her. "No school for you, young man," she told him. "The last thing you need is to have another episode like this. We'll call Ethelwulf after we deal with that press conference – that way we can create an excuse to stop anyone attacking the shield."

Danny frowned, but nodded his confirmation to Maddie. "Just don't tell the school a ghost stole my face again, would you?" Maddie scowled at the reminder of the flimsy excuse but nodded all the same. She looked at Jack, glanced at their son worriedly, before they headed down to the lab, leaving the four teens in the kitchen.

Jazz sighed. "You guys want a ride?" she asked Sam and Tucker, standing.

"Thanks Jazz!" Tucker exclaimed happily.

Jazz waved off his gratitude. "Least I can do for calling you over so early." She turned to her brother in fake annoyance. "Don't do anything stupid while we're gone okay?"

Danny made a face. "No promises."

She gave a pointed look at Tucker before leaving the kitchen. Danny felt the eyes of his friends move toward him and readied himself for the double attack.

"You're using raw energy with the shield, aren't you?" Tucker accused.

Danny, to his credit, didn't deny it. "More like a combination of core and raw energy."

"I know Frostbite said to trust your instincts, but don't you think this is a little much?"

"You saw what he could do," Danny argued. "If I'm able to block him out, even for a bit, then I'm going to risk it."

"And what happens when you face him?" Sam asked, anger starting to lace her voice. "Are you going to try and keep the shield up too? Cause I hate to tell you, but you're barely able to stand without looking like a malfunctioning toaster oven."

Danny let out a frustrated sigh. "I don't know okay?" he said. "I just wanted to make sure he couldn't get to Amity Park."

"Gee, if only you could ask world renowned ghost hunters to put up a ghost shield around the town," Tucker said sarcastically.

"Remember, the wail can go through shields," Danny told him, voice rising. "Managed to get through the one in the future at any rate. Besides, if I learned anything from Fear's little science experiment, I know that he'll have trouble with this shield."

"Right, the shield you put up when you had lost control of your powers," Sam reminded angrily. "The one where you were unconscious for almost a week after you defeated him. The one where you almost died after discovering those powers in order to save us."

Danny flinched at the unsaid accusation. Apologetic blue eyes found fearful violet ones before the boy sighed, all the fight draining from him. "I don't want to lose you," he admitted quietly.

Sensing her victory, Sam's face softened at the admission. "Well, we don't want to lose you," she said softly. "You're not alone. I'm here."

Danny realized how close Sam was to him in that moment, still holding him upright, vaguely understanding the weight of those words. He stared at her and she stared back, almost frozen with anticipation of who would say what next.

And then Tucker coughed, making both teens jump out of their thoughts. Sam let go of Danny and looked away, blushing, while Danny caught eyes with his other best friend. Tucker's smug smile made Danny's cheeks grow warmer as he cursed his friend's presence. "I'm here too, in case you're wondering," Tucker teased lightly. Danny glared half-heartedly before the dark skinned boy continued. "Your parents, Jazz, us – we have your back. Sam's right, this shield is going to take a lot of energy from you. If you want to defeat your older jerky self, you'll need to not have your raw energy powers in that shield."

Danny sighed as his sister came back into the kitchen, backpack in tow. He pushed himself upright, Sam hovering over him like a mother hen, as he sat back down at the table. He shot a grateful smile at the girl before frowning at the information in front of him. "I guess I'll go through this stuff," he said distastefully, gesturing toward the pile of weapons at the opposite end.

"Don't hurt yourself," Jazz warned, jingling her car keys toward their backdoor.

Danny smiled wryly. "That's the point, isn't it? The best weapons against him are the best weapons against me."

:-=-:

Dome Watch – Day Three

Three days since the mysterious shield went up around Amity Park and residents are wondering why here? Why now?

Word from City Hall yesterday confirmed that town hero Danny Phantom is responsible for the shield around the town. There is still no confirmation on what warranted the attack but it's brought many residents back to last year, where the town was taken hostage by the Ghost King and again in the summer when Phantom did this last. Unlike the previous domes, residents can leave the town, but require a more forceful approach before being allowed back in.

Resident ghost experts Jack and Maddie Fenton assured the public two days ago that the shield means no harm, but many of their critics, including Mayor Masters, have questioned their authority of the matter with the truce with Phantom being quite new.

More on page 7.

William Lancer frowned as the school bell rang, putting the paper down as he watched his English Class come into the classroom in various forms of enthusiasm – most of them low. This particular class had changed quite in the past year though he supposed the now constant ghost attacks contributed to most of it. Valerie Gray, for instance, sat herself in the front corner; away from everyone she once called her friend. She was a loner, keeping her head down, doing the work and working at least 3 jobs to start saving for college.

Dash Baxter and Kwan Wu's laughter brought the teacher's attention to the A-list of the grade. They were chatting openly about something, occasionally catching the attention of Paulina Sanchez. Lancer assumed they were either talking about the dome or about Phantom. Due to the look on the latter's face, he'd guess Phantom.

He scanned the room as the second bell rang, looking for any missing seats; Only one today. "No Mr. Fenton? Third day in a row," He mused out loud. His two friends at the back looked at each other worriedly. That got the man's attention.

Sam Manson's love of protests, nature, and veganism only amplified this year, but now that they moved onto subjects that peaked her interest, she was easily a top student. Tucker Foley seemed to buckle down a little more this year, getting in nowhere near as much trouble as he did last year and continued his A streak from the year before.

Daniel Fenton on the other hand? Almost two years in High School and he was still an enigma that Lancer still couldn't crack. The only clue the man had that something was going on with him was when his friends shared that look. The one where they knew more to whatever the Fentons claimed him to miss school. The excuses were rather ridiculous – sleeping in, stuck in the weapons vault, trapped in an alternate dimension. Lancer's personal favourite was when they claimed a ghost stole his face and went across town broadcasting him missing. Whether the Fentons knew what Danny was into, Lancer wasn't sure, but that exchange between Manson and Foley, the one of worry, concern and downright fear that they exchange when he's not in the room? There was definitely something going on with Danny Fenton.

"Pens out, desks clear," Mr. Lancer announced, brushing aside his thoughts for a moment. "Test time." The groans of teenage angst and lack of preparedness reach his ears. "Essay question is on the board people. Tell me if Macbeth's choices led to his downfall or if it was all fated to happen. You have the period."

The murmurings of the teens in front of him petered out as he passed out the test, and eventually the scratching of pens to paper greeted his ears. Once the group of sophomores were writing, Lancer sat back at his desk and absently looked down out at the paper once more. The truce between Phantom and the Fentons, however new it might be, seemed to help keep most of the attacks away from the school – it had done wonders for his curriculum delivery. Thankfully, there hadn't been a ghost attack since Phantom put up the shield, but there was no sign of the ghost in question since all of this began. Come to think of it, Lancer couldn't remember when he last saw the Fentons not on a news conference.

Looking up at the empty desk, Lancer sighed as his thoughts came back to his missing pupil. Danny's attendance was far from perfect, but the boy had made a large effort to be at school more often. His random disappearances were less frequent than the previous year, and his overall grades had improved. Even his general demeanour had improved; Danny's start to the school year seemed brighter than anytime the man had seen since the boy started at Casper. The weight he seemingly carried with him was still there, but wasn't as soul crushing as it appeared to be.

"Mr. Lancer?"

The teacher jumped out of his thoughts as Danny Fenton himself stood at his desk. "Mr. Fenton!" Lancer exclaimed, surprised. Right on cue, Manson and Foley's heads flew up from their tests, agape at the teen. "You startled me!"

"Sorry," Danny said sheepishly. Lancer frowned as he noticed the bags under his student's eyes and the paleness of his complexion. "My Mom told me to give this to you." He waved a piece of paper from his hand before he handed it to the teacher.

Lancer opened it and saw the neat handwriting of Maddie Fenton. "Please excuse Danny after first period due to illness." Lancer looked the teen over again; Danny did look very ill. "You know Mr. Fenton, I would've been happy to give you a makeup test once you felt better."

Danny smiled at the man, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Mom's overreacting," he said with a shrug. "Besides, I didn't want to miss anymore school. This was the compromise."

Doubting the boy's words, Lancer sighed. "Very well," he said, handing Danny the test. "Essay question's on the board."

With a small nod, Danny turned to get to his desk. Mr. Lancer watched his slow, staggered steps curiously. Danny moved liked he was injured, stiffly moving as if he favoured one side. Lancer glanced at his two best friends and almost gasped at their expression. Tucker looked almost exasperated but mostly concerned. However Sam… she had so many emotions on her face directed at the boy, Lancer wasn't sure how Danny could weather it. He must have given them some sort of gesture, because both teens softened their expressions slightly, but still looked extremely concerned as Danny took his seat.

Lancer glanced at the student once more as he started writing, before looking out the window. The shield illuminated the town in a sickly green, creating eerie shadows across the school. Lancer shuddered in remembrance of how the town looked during the Ghost King invasion.

About halfway through the period, Lancer started to walk through the aisles of desks, attracting wandering eyes back to their tests. Sure enough, his star students were already finished and just waiting for the end of class. As he got the final row, he sensed something was off. Sam was still writing, with the occasional glimpses toward Danny, whereas Tucker had completed the test and was staring directly at his friend, concerned. Frowning, Lancer moved to Fenton's desk.

Danny was writing, slowly, but his body was shaking. He was paler than before and ultimately looked like he might be sick. "Mr. Fenton?" Lancer asked quietly. The boy didn't answer. Some of the students looked up and toward the commotion in the back; Lancer could swear he hear Baxter snickering slightly. "Danny?" Lancer touched his shoulder and with a soft groan Danny fell sideways. "All the Bright Places!" Lancer exclaimed, quickly moving to catch the boy. His eyes were closed, breathing ragged as the teacher tried to rouse him. "Daniel! Are you alright!?" Lancer moved the boy back upright in his seat, holding him steady. Eventually, Danny opened his eyes, blinking a few times before his gaze settled on his teacher.

"Mr. Lancer?" he asked, confused. Whispers started around the classroom.

"Fenton fainted!" Dash exclaimed unhelpfully, earning laughter from a group of his peers in his direct vicinity.

"Thank you for that, Mr. Baxter," Lancer said curtly, still looking Danny over as the boy tried to regain his bearings. "Daniel, perhaps you should go to the Nurse's office." When the teen in front of him didn't register his voice, Lancer frowned; he doubted the boy would make it on his own.

"I'll go with him!" The teacher turned, eyebrows raised at the three voices. He had expected Manson and Foley, but Ms. Gray's outburst? She hadn't shown interest in her peers since last year.

Manson and Gray were glaring at each other from across the room, some sort of rivalry shining in both their eyes. The concern for the boy was evident, but Lancer could sense the anger, worry and concern that Sam felt for Danny ooze out of her body. Mr. Foley on the other hand? It was a testament to how dire the situation must be for the teen to volunteer to go to the nurse's office.

Glancing back toward the ill teen, Lancer sighed. They didn't have time for the teacher to be suspicious. "Alright Mr. Foley, as you've finished."

Tucker hastily got out of his seat, gathered Danny's items and helped the sick student upright. Danny faltered as he stood, but regained his balance and managed to get himself out of the room, Tucker following closely behind him. Mr. Lancer watched them go, frowning slightly. There was something nagging him about this situation, but he couldn't place it. Once the students were down the hall, the teacher sighed as he pushed aside his worry yet again.

"Back at it Sophomores. The more you dally, the lower the grade."

:-=-:

The world exploded as he finally escaped that foul prison. Dan stretched, moving his stiff limbs as he looked at his surroundings. "Finally," he said, looking around the burning lair around him. "Now, where is that infernal Time Ghost." Flying upwards in the tower, Dan started to launch ecto-blasts at various clocks, trying to goad Clockwork into appearing. "Clockwork!" He yelled dramatically as he continued to destroy the lair.

A large chime made Dan stopped suddenly, enveloped in the chaos surrounding him. His eyes drifted to Clockwork's time glass as various battles involving his younger self played back at him through the blue flames. Dan frowned. "Of course, new timeline." He floated in place, watching his past self grow stronger in the time he was detained. It couldn't have been more than a year. The flames cracked the orb, running directly through an image of Danny fighting what looked like a large plant ghost.

"Perhaps I should show him what it's like to have a blast from your past," he mused, a small smile appearing at his face. He chuckled darkly as his hands lit up with green energy and broke the time glass in front of him. "Or rather, his future." Dan Phantom flew up and out of the burning tower, leaving behind a fading image of fifteen year old Danny Phantom on Clockwork's broken time glass. A few seconds later, horrific sonic waves reverberated through the tower, enhancing the flames and making the tower itself rumble. With a final crash, Clockwork's Clock Tower imploded, engulfed in flames.

:-=-:

Danny stumbled into a series of lockers, gripping it tightly as he heard Tucker come up behind him. They were out of earshot from Lancer's class and halfway to the nurse's office.

"What the hell Danny!?" Tucker asked angrily, arms crossed and a dangerous glare on his face. Danny sighed as he turned to his friend. "You're lucky you only passed out in there!"

"We still haven't gotten a hold of Ethelwulf," Danny told him, standing up straighter. "It's been three days; the school would be looking for answers if I missed another one. I needed to make an appearance somehow."

Tucker sighed, the anger still not leaving his face. "Why'd you pass out this time? Someone trying to get into the shield or another vision?"

"Vision," Danny said, looking away.

Tucker frowned. "It's another of Dan escaping, isn't it?" Tucker accused. The teen in question stayed silent. Taking that as his answer, Tucker sighed again. "Danny, that's the sixth one since the shield began! Don't you think some of these are just dreams?"

"Maybe," he conceded, frowning slightly. "But it doesn't explain why I keep getting them, or why they're appearing at random."

The two teens stood silent, waiting for the other to make the first move. Tucker sighed, his shoulders sagging in defeat as he walked closer to his friend. "Danny, you need to take the shield down," Tucker told him quietly, staring out the large window of the Casper High Hallway to their football field. Danny also turned his vision to the outside world. He felt the shield hum through his powers, frowning as he considered his friend's plea. "It's taking way too much energy to sustain and for what? Just a hunch that the worst villain you ever faced might be coming back?"

"Isn't that a reason to keep it up?" Danny refuted, eyebrow raised.

"Not at the risk to yourself!" Tucker exclaimed exasperatedly. "Let's say you're right, and he attacks the town. How are you going defend yourself? How are you going to fight?"

"It affects me less as Phantom."

"Bull," Tucker said angrily. "We both know it affects you regardless. You're using raw energy remember? There's a balance between you overextending the amount of core energy, which makes you relive the portal accident, and your base powers." Tucker's anger lessened a bit, trying to get his friend to see reason. "At least take back some of your energy; if you feel something attacking the shield then go nuts. This is too dangerous and there's no point in draining yourself."

Danny sighed, taking inventory of his powers. Tucker was right; he felt exhausted. He opened his mouth to agree, but gasped instead, doubling over in pain. Something was wrong. His eyes went green, mouth agape at an unseen foe.

"Danny!" Tucker exclaimed worriedly. The half-ghost looked up at his friend, alarmed.

"Duck," he gritted out, before the world was drowned out by a deep wail. The ground beneath them shook as Danny, biting back a scream, held the shield up. The windows shattered, leaving glass scattered around the teens as Tucker tried to keep his friend upright. After what felt like hours, the wail stopped, sending both teens crashing to the floor. Tucker looked at Danny with concern, watching his friend pant from exertion as the shield shuddered above them. Dread pooled in the pit of Tucker's stomach as he realized what that attack meant.

"Danny…" Tucker trailed off, wide eyed. Danny didn't answer; once he reclaimed his breathing, he gave Tucker a long look, causing the dark skinned teen's eyes to widen further in alarm. "Danny wait!" Tucker exclaimed, reaching out to his friend. It was too late; Danny transformed, grunting slightly, and took off, leaving his best friend behind in the destroyed hallway.

Tucker stood, watching him fly off in the distance before cursing. "Sam's going to kill me," he muttered, jumping up and running down the halls toward Jazz's homeroom.

[sirenspells]

Plume of Dusk Minato AU Plot Summary 1/?

Minato and Hamuko Arisato, 8-year-old twin brother and sister, are living in an orphanage after their parents die in a car crash on the Moonlight Bridge. After this traumatizing event, the twins are closer than ever before, and rarely are they ever seen straying from the other’s side.

One day, a strange long-haired man visited the orphanage, and would continue to do so over the next few days. Hamuko couldn’t help but notice how much attention he paid to Minato specifically, and she would always attempt to shield her brother from the man’s vision if she noticed he was there.

Minato was eventually approached by those working in the orphanage, and was told that he would be leaving with that same strange man. Minato and Hamuko protested, desperately asking why Minato was being taken away, and why Hamuko couldn’t go with him, but their pleas were largely ignored. Before Minato was to leave, the twins tightly embraced, and the two promised each other that they would see each other again.

(Warning: very long post under the cut)

The man, who Minato soon learned was named Ikutsuki, took Minato to a laboratory. Surrounded by adults in lab coats, talking in words he couldn’t understand, Minato was terrified, and wanted nothing more than to go back to Hamuko.

Right before blacking out on an operating table, he saw the researchers holding a blue crystal-like object, which they appeared to handle with absolute care.

When Minato woke up, his head hurting and covered in bandages, he was barely given time to recover before he was thrown into some strange arena, and forced to fight these weird creatures, “Shadows”, he’d heard the researchers call. Being only given a sword, one he could barely hold up, he could do nothing but flee from the Shadows’ attacks, until the researchers had had enough fun with him.

As Minato tried desperately that night to fall asleep, he wished that something, anything, could get him out of this place, and back into his sister’s loving embrace.

In Minato’s dream, he was in a vast and empty blue space, with nothing in sight as far as the eye could see. Minato cautiously called out, asking if anyone was there. As he’d expected, no one returned his call. He was alone...

A voice then replied, asking if Minato could hear it. The voice sounded young, very similar to Minato’s own, but it wasn’t coming from any visible source. Minato, frightened, asked who was there.

The voice told him that it was the plume of dusk that the researchers had implanted inside Minato’s brain, and due to this, it now resides within Minato’s mind. Minato asked the voice more questions for clarification, like what exactly a plume of dusk was. When Minato asked it why the researchers wanted to do all this to him, the plume of dusk couldn’t provide an answer, still being new to humans and how exactly they operate. However, it promised that as long as it was residing within Minato’s head, it would try to help him with whatever he needed help with.

As Minato soon learned, the plume of dusk could communicate with him in the real world, as a voice in Minato’s head. The plume of dusk tried to help him in the arena battles, telling Minato when to dodge and how to at least get off some hits with his sword. Though it still wasn’t much, it was still something. The plume of dusk, through listening to the researchers, learned that the point of the researchers implanting a plume of dusk inside Minato was to get him to awaken to a Persona.

As time went on, the plume of dusk started to become more human, even creating a human projection of himself within Minato’s dreams (his human appearance looks like Pharos, but he’s never actually called that).

The researchers finally got their wish when, after being cornered by a particularly fearsome Shadow, Minato finally awakens to his Persona, Orpheus. Unbeknownst to the researchers, however, the plume of dusk had nothing to do with this awakening happening. Orpheus awakened due to extreme stress, and it would’ve happened regardless of the plume of dusk being there or not. Nevertheless, they excitedly announced the experiment a success, but that wouldn’t mean they were quite done with Minato yet.

Meanwhile, Minato decided that the plume of dusk deserved a name, and settled on calling him Ryoji. Ryoji couldn’t be happier with it, especially since Ryoji’s surprised at how much Minato cares about him like he’s an actual person.

The first time Ryoji controls Minato’s body is when a Shadow appears to be near impervious to Orpheus’ fire spells, so Ryoji tells Minato how to switch with him. As it turns out, Ryoji can summon a Persona of his own, Thanatos, which defeats the Shadow with ease. The researchers are shocked, wondering how this subject was seemingly able to summon two Personas. Ryoji, still in Minato’s body, explains everything to them. The researchers now find themselves with a very interesting subject, with Ikutsuki especially being excited about how powerful the two can be.

(breaking away from the seriousness for a bit, Minato asks Ryoji why the latter never told him that he could summon a Persona. Ryoji’s response is “you didn’t ask”, which is the same response Sophia gives in p5strikers when asked the same question. Non-human minds think alike I guess.)

Minato and Ryoji’s success rate in defeating Shadows is better than ever. With their ability to switch who’s controlling Minato’s body, one’s Persona can cover weaknesses that the other can’t. As well, Minato’s physical fighting skills also improve, mostly from watching Ryoji, who is a naturally good fighter.

About a year has passed since Minato was first taken to the laboratory by this point, but he still thinks about Hamuko, and wonders how she’s doing without him. Minato’s resentment towards Ikutsuki is not something he hides from Ryoji, so Ryoji is aware that Ikutsuki is the reason Minato was put into this situation.

Over time, Minato’s desire to leave and find Hamuko becomes very strong, and he finds himself crying in front of Ryoji in his mindscape one night, venting that it’s all Ikutsuki’s fault that he and Hamuko are separated. Ryoji desperately thinks of a way to make Minato happy. Eventually, Ryoji comes to the conclusion that if Ikutsuki is the reason Minato is in pain, then getting rid of Ikutsuki would make him happy. So Ryoji decides he’s going to kill Ikutsuki.

Ryoji takes over Minato’s body and wakes up, and leaves the room to find Ikutsuki. Some researchers try to stop him from leaving, and they realize they’re in trouble when Ryoji summons his Persona to get them out of the way, so he isn’t playing around. As Ryoji searches the lab, trying to find Ikutsuki, Minato realizes what is happening and tries to tell him to stop, but Ryoji insists that he is doing what is best for Minato.

(And Ryoji’s right Ikutsuki’s a little bitch lmao)

When Ryoji finally finds Ikutsuki, he doesn’t hesitate. Thanatos holds Ikutsuki up by the neck, and attempts to choke him. As this is happening, Minato keeps telling Ryoji to stop, saying that he did not want to kill anyone, but Ryoji isn’t yielding, so Minato tries to forcefully rip control away from him. It works, Minato takes control back, and Thanatos immediately disappears, dropping Ikutsuki. He isn’t dead, but gasping for breath after nearly being choked to death. Some researchers force Minato back into his room.

Later, after Ikutsuki’s been given some time to recover, Minato overhears him telling the researchers that they will be removing the plume of dusk, deeming it too dangerous and unstable, and hoping that Minato will still retain his Persona. Minato, not wanting this to happen, asks Ryoji what they will do. Ryoji doesn’t respond however, and Minato realizes that he’s been silent ever since Minato forcefully took back control to stop him.

Minato realizes he’s on his own for now, and finally decides that he has to escape this place. Using Orpheus’ powers, he’s able to make a hole in the wall that he can jump through into the outside world, and Minato runs far away from that lab as fast as he can, finally stopping to sleep on the ground when he thinks he’s safe.

The next morning, Minato tries again to talk to Ryoji, but he’s still met with silence. Minato finds his way to a city, and he sorta just wanders around for a bit. By this point, he’s realized that finding Hamuko will be near impossible, since Minato’s now in a different area than the one that the orphanage was located in, and even then, there’s a possibility that Hamuko’s not even there anymore.

As Minato prepares to try and sleep on the hard cement ground, he makes one last plea to Ryoji to say something, to at least give a sign that he’s still there. That night in his dreams, Ryoji appears before Minato, but with his back to him.

Ryoji apologizes for trying to kill Ikutsuki, and for not stopping when Minato told him to. He insists that the researchers are right, he is dangerous and deserved to be removed, and it seems that he intends on disappearing for good. Minato isn’t letting that happen, though, and runs up and hugs Ryoji. Minato tells Ryoji that he is Minato’s best friend, and that Minato doesn’t want him to disappear, he wants him to stay with him.

Ryoji is once again shocked that Minato sees him as like a real person, but his heart is warmed by that fact. Much to Minato’s relief, Ryoji decides to stay, and the two set up a loose rule for Ryoji: he can only take over Minato’s body if Minato allows him to, and he has to give control back to Minato when he wants it.

The next night, Minato happens to stay up until midnight and for the first time, he and Ryoji witness the Dark Hour. They investigate more as time goes on, and they learn that they appear to be the only ones awake during this time. Minato uses this to steal food from stores, as, being homeless, it is the only way he can possibly survive.

There’s a three year time skip, so Minato is now 12, and he is approached by three people during the Dark Hour, two boys and a girl. The boy with long hair introduces himself as Takaya, with the other boy being Jin and the girl being Chidori. Jin reveals that he’s investigated the Kirijo Group’s records and has discovered nearly everything about Minato, namely that he holds another soul within him and that he is a persona-user.

Takaya makes an offer to Minato, an offer to join their group, called Strega. Takaya gives a vague description of what they do, that they take requests on the internet that they perform during the Dark Hour for profit. When Minato asks why this offer is being made to him, Takaya tells him that, as a fellow child who was experimented on, they thought he’d like for a place to finally belong, instead of just living out his days alone on the streets for the rest of his life.

Minato decides to take their offer, and joins Strega. Takaya says that they’ll go into more detail on what they do tomorrow, and to not expect Ryoji to be exempt, as they’d like to be formally introduced to him as well.

Once they leave, Minato tries to get some sleep. He hopes that he doesn’t regret the choice that he just made.

[toothpastecanyon]

Dreams That Walk, Nightmares That Talk, Chapter 7

Ben's been visiting the Mindscape every day since he was born. Once he brought something back, and twenty years later, Marie García is still picking out the pieces.

See most updated version on Archive of Our Own.

______________________________________________________________

                Another time. Marie would admit she’s never been able to choose a good moment; she’s not really sure what that even means. She’s gonna have to say it at some point, so

                “Hi Marie!”

                                why not

                “Sorry I’m late, had a… rough summons. Ready for chess?”

                                                right now?

                “I need you to go into my mind and fix whatever’s wrong with it.” Marie gets out the chessboard, hesitates, and looks up at him. “What?”

                “Wh-what?” He’s staring at her like she’s grown a second head. “What do you mean?”

                “Like you offered before. You can still do that, right?”

                “Go into your head?” Alcor rubs his eye. “I mean, yeah, but… sorry, this is just kind of sudden. I thought you didn’t want me to-”

                “I didn’t forget, I know what I said.” She snaps, and then makes a face at his flinch. “Sorry. That came out harsh, sorry.”

                Quietly, Alcor takes a seat next to her. She can feel him watching her set up the pieces, can sense him waiting for her to go on. It takes a second, and then:

                “Look, I… I don’t like… I don’t like admitting when I need help.” She lines up the castles. “But I think I do, and I think you’re the only one who can. Help me, that is. God knows I’ve tried getting it from anywhere else, but half the time it doesn’t work and half the time I can’t be honest without getting Ben hauled off by demonologists.”

                “Sorry,” Alcor says, and she gives him a strange look.

                “What do you mean-? Oh. Oh, I wasn’t talking about you, I was talking about…” Marie stops herself. She sighs. “Well… that’s why I didn’t want anyone rooting around in my head. Obviously I didn’t want you at first because I didn’t trust you, but... I don’t want anyone in my mind. I don’t want anyone rooting around in my secrets. I still don’t.”

                “That’s understandable.”

                “But this isn’t sustainable. Not for Ben.” She picks up the king, runs her thumb down the grain. “I’ve been going in circles my whole life, I’m used to it, but after… after Ben ended up in the hospital, I promised him I’d get help, I’d get better, I’d stop pinning everything on him, or…” She hesitates, grips him tight. “He’s the only thing that matters to me. I can’t lose him. So I have to do this.”

                “Are you sure?” Alcor leans forward. “It, uh, really doesn’t sound like you want to do this. You don’t have to do this for Ben.”

                “Well, if Ben ends up cutting me off, there’s not much point carrying on. So I guess that means I’m doing it for me too, right?”

                Marie chuckles at that, but the look on his face tells her that didn’t come off as a joke. She clears her throat.

                “No, that’s not - I was just exaggerating. Don’t worry about it.”

                “Marie-”

                “Look, I’m not saying I don’t want to do this. Believe you me, I’d love to fix whatever’s wrong with me too. It’s just that, well, I have a lot of things I’d rather keep to myself. I mean, I like you, but there’s things I’ve never told Ben.” She places the king, then the queen. “Or Santino.”

                “Santino?”

                Marie looks up sharply at that, and then lets out a dark chuckle. “Yeah,” she says, and shakes her head. “You don’t know anything about me. Maybe that’s why you seem to like hanging out with me, right?” She keeps chuckling. “And then I let you in, and you’ll know better, right.”

                She trails off, and for a moment it’s all too quiet. Then there’s a sound: Alcor places a pawn. Nothing’s changed, but Marie feels something shift, like the air got a few degrees colder, the silence got a little bit more unsettling. Alcor places a pawn, and the sound is jarring.

                “There’s a lot you don’t know about me either.” He looks up at her with the same eyes she’s gotten used to, speaks in the same, casual tone she’s heard before, but underneath that is something… else. Something that sends a shiver down her spine. Alcor places a pawn, and she notices there’s dried blood under his claws. “Whatever you’ve done, Dr García, trust me when I say that I can’t judge.”

                Marie can only nod to that. It seemed when she first met Alcor, it’d be impossible to forget what he is, but the more she gets to know him, the more… unsettling it is, to be reminded.

                “Right,” She says, and clears her throat. “Well. It’s good to know that. So… will you do it?”

                “Of course I will.”

                “What would you like in return?”

                “What I’d like?” He looks at her… and then cracks a smile. “Do you want to play this game first?”

                “That’s it?”

                “I mean, I just came from some demonic weirdness; I’d rather take a second before diving into the next one. If you really want to do it right now, though-”

                “No, no, that’s okay. We can take a break.” She rose to her feet. “Do you want some tea? I was going to put the kettle on.”

                “Oh, yeah, thank you! And-”

                “Extra sugar?” She snorts as he nods. “Yeah, figured. I’ll get that going.”

                “Thanks!”

                “Thank you, Alcor.” Marie gives him a smile. “Thank you.

                They didn’t play one game; they played several, and then ended up on the couch together watching one of Alcor’s strange pre-transcendence movies. Marie isn’t really a TV person, but she did notice how he hadn’t been joking around so much today. It seemed like he really did need the break.

                (And of course she asked him on a bad day. She really couldn’t pick a moment, see?)

                Even though she isn’t focused too much on the movie, she does feel pleasantly warm and sleepy; her eyes are drooping, and she sinks into the couch and lets them. The dialogue dissolves into a distant murmur, the action into a gentle glow against her eyelids. She might even have started leaning against Alcor because she feels something like fabric against her cheek, but she can’t bring herself to mind. She drifts off, drifts away…

                “Do you want to do this now?”

                It’s a gentle voice, almost like it’s afraid to wake her. She opens her eyes, and suddenly she’s a little surprised about how awake she feels. She sees Alcor standing in front of her, blocking the television.

                “Oh, I’m ready if you are.” She frowns. “Don’t you want to finish your movie, though?”

                “Eh, you already fell asleep.”

                Marie blinks at that, and then looks around. Suddenly it strikes her how grey everything is, and when she looks down she feels a jolt at the sight of herself still resting on the couch.

                “Wha-”

                “Don’t panic!” Alcor holds his hands out. “You’ll wake yourself up. Everything’s okay.”

                “Is this my mind?”

                “No, no, I wouldn’t do that without your permission. This is just the Mindscape.” He gave an awkward smile. “I promise there’s a difference.”

                “I… see.” Marie looked down, and saw herself floating a little ways off the ground. Her leg was clipping through the couch. “Interesting.”

                “Yeah, it takes some getting used to.” He reaches out a hand. “Are you ready?”

                Marie nods. “I am,” she says, and takes it. “Let’s go.”

                She watches him close his eyes, and put a hand on her head. Nothing happens for a moment, then there’s the distinct, unsettling feeling of his hand sinking into her forehead-

                But only for a heartbeat. Marie blinks, and now Alcor’s standing beside her, and she’s somewhere else.

                Somewhere… dead.

                Ash rain is all Marie can make out at first. A thick cloud of grey surrounds her, settles on her, kills any sound but for the beating of her heart. It’s hard to move through, like the air is made of syrup, and Marie imagines that staying still for too long would bury her under this, that she’d reach a point where she couldn’t move at all, couldn’t see, couldn’t scream-

                “Let’s get moving.” Marie says.  She looks for Alcor, and finds him waist-deep in the grey. “Alcor? Do you need help?”

                He says something, but she can’t make it out. She grabs his arm and starts pulling him up.

                “Come on, Alcor. We need to get to my mind.”

                “This is wrong.”

                “What?”

                Alcor looks dazed, scared. The ash is up to his neck.

                “What is it, Alcor?”

                Slowly, he turns that expression on her, and she feels a shiver go up her spine.

                “This… is your mind.”

                “Okay. Is this not normal?”

                “Not normal? There’s nothing here!” He gestures, and shreddings of her mind follow the wake. “I don’t - I don’t even know how you’re alive right now! I feel nothing here, no thoughts, no memories… n-no soul!”

                That strikes a chord in Marie, but she tries to keep it contained for now. “Huh,” she strokes her chin. “But you felt souls within me. They have to be somewhere.”

                She looks down at Alcor, sinking into the ash, and then at her own feet. They’re a little buried, and she can feel a… warmth, the further down she lets them go.

                “Hmm.” She glances over at him again. “I think you have the right idea.”

                Alcor doesn’t reply; she can only see the top of his head now, and as she watches it’s swallowed up into the sea of ash. That left her standing there, trying not to extract herself as she sinks down to her shins.

                “Just do nothing. Let it happen.”

                Marie stands there for a moment, staring out into the grey. With nothing to do, she can pick out vague, dark shapes; a little unsettling, and the ash feels slightly… sharper, than she first thought.

                She wonders if this is a good idea, and that’s when a hand grabs her ankle. Marie jumps and kicks herself free… and finds herself right back on top of the ash. She pauses, then frowns.

                “Huh. This is literally my own mind playing tricks on me.” She kicks at the ash. “Fuck you, let me through already.”

                The ash is barely falling now, and she rolls her eyes.

                “Great. Maybe there’s another way through.” Marie starts pacing. “Or I could ask Alcor for help… would summoning work here? I wonder where he even went.”

                There was a mumbling from the ash. She looks down, and sees Alcor surface.

                “Marie!” He looks relieved. “There you are! I thought I’d lost you!”

                “Yeah, some mind guide you’ve been so far.”

Alcor makes a face. “Sorry. I was just… shocked.” He reaches out a hand. “Come on. You’ll want to see this.”

                “Something tells me I won’t, but sure.” She takes it. “Lead o-”

                He dives beneath the ash, and she manages only a gasp before- darkness. Worse than darkness: stillness. She breathes the weeks she spent wasting away in her bedroom, feels the stale air and stale thoughts scratching across her whole being. And it’s getting worse, getting hotter, getting to those nights when the air conditioner wasn’t enough and the sun was glaring down at her through the blinds and still she couldn’t even summon the energy to kick the fucking covers off of her-

                Light. Blinding light. Marie stumbles forward, eyes squeezed shut, and it’s all she can do to hold onto Alcor. She can feel his arm raise up to point.

                “Look.”

                “A little, little warning next time, thanks…” She blinks open her eyes, and then frowns. “Okay, I’m looking. What is it?”

                It is coming out of the centre of this narrow chamber. It is thin and narrow, pitted with holes like a termite mound. It has a dark, rocky hide to it, but small fissures reveal something underneath, something pink, something pulsating, something alive. She looks to Alcor, and sees he’s gone sheet white.

                “What is it?”

                “It’s…” He takes a step closer. “You. Your mind. Your soul. Everything that you are.”

                “Okay. How do we fix it?”

                “Wh- Marie, I-” He runs a hand through his hair. “I’ve been asked to heal souls before, but this is…” Another step closer, and he’s eye to eye with its peak. “I’ve never had so little to work with.”

                “Well, you’ve still got something to work with. What’s the first step?” She rolls her eyes at his bewildered expression. “Come on, Alcor. Walk me through how you’d usually treat something like this.” A pause. “Well?”

                “I’m sorry, I just…” His voice is faint. “No wonder I can barely feel your aura. I don’t know how you’re talking to me right now, I- Ow, you pinched me!”

                Marie draws her hand back. “Okay, the first step is to stop panicking. Now that you’ve done that, can you tell me what you do next?”

                “I, uh…” He tries to gesture to the mound. “Well, usually I’d step inside their mind to figure out what’s wrong, but-”

                “Okay. Is that possible?”

                Alcor pauses. “I guess… size is a lot less defined in the mind.”

                “It’s worth a shot, then.”

                “Yeah. Yeah!” He moves towards the mound, and shoots her a grin. “You’re good at this!”

                “At not panicking? It’s half my job.” She nudges him forwards. “Let’s go.”

                Alcor nods, and then lifts up his foot. He’s taller than the mound, but he steps his leg into it and seems to fit into one of the tiny holes. He offers his hand to Marie, and she takes it.

                “Ready?” He says, and she nods. “Alright. This is it.”

                He leans down, and Marie feels the world shrink around her as she’s led into the hole. She looks behind her, and there’s no opening where they came through. Before them, though…

                “Huh.” She raises her eyebrow. “It’s the old hospital I used to work at.”

                And it is… mostly. It’s the same mint green hallways she’d worked in for years, but there’s definitely something off about it. There’s no sound. The lights are dimmer. When she tries to read the room numbers, the words shift and twist and refuse to make sense. Stranger still, there’s something long and thin and red nestled against the baseboard, trailing into the darkness.

                “Doesn’t look so bad.” Marie turns to Alcor. “What do we do from here?”

                He looks uncomfortable. “Marie…”

                “What?”

                “It’s… I just…” He hesitates, and then shakes his head. “I’ll ask you later. What did you say?”

                “Where do we go from here?”

                “We, uh… well, we find where the extra souls are.”

                “I see.” She eyes the blood vessel as it gently pulsates. Cracks have formed around where it’s dug itself in. “Anything we should be cautious of?”

                “Doors are common mental representations of memories.” He makes a face. “Probably shouldn’t go around opening them, if we can help it. Or anything else that looks... significant.”

                “No, we shouldn’t.” She takes a step forward, and then motions for him. “Come on.”

                “I’m coming, I’m coming.”

                They walk forwards, keeping an eye out for anything unusual. There’s far more crossroads here than there are in the real hospital, Marie notices; it feels like every five steps they come across another path, and, for lack of a good reason to turn, they go straight every time. As they continue, she can pick up a faint hum… or a beep.

                Beep, beep, beep.

                                beep, beep, beep.

                                                one two three.

                The blood vessel in the corner branches off at the next intersection; they look like they’re going in all directions at first, but she blinks and-

                                                right right right

                The right path. The only path. It’s covered from floor to ceiling in hot wet viscera, and she feels her heart skip a beat.

                                                right right right rightleftright RIGHTRIGHTRIGHT

                “I guess we know where we’re going, huh?” She can distantly hear Alcor’s nervous chuckle. “You okay?”

                “I’m fine.” Marie takes a step forward with her right foot. “I’m fine. I’m fine.”

                Make it right. Now that she hears the beeping it’s deafening; now that she notices the right path, it compels her to go that way every time. They take three more rights, and she can start to feel Alcor’s worried eyes on the back of her head like she doesn’t know that she’s just leading them in circles now. She’s not an idiot.

                Another intersection comes up, and she eyes the path straight ahead. She’s not an idiot.

                                (shes-(shes-

                She steps forward, and suddenly the beeping is screaming, the ground is shaking, the walls are pressing in around them. She can hear Alcor shout something as her feet give way beneath her and she’s falling, falling, falling…

                “Hey.”

                Marie feels a hand on her arm. She recoils.

                “Are you okay, mi cielito?”

                “I…” She stares at the kettle she’s reboiled five times now. “I don’t know. I don’t know.”

                “Okay.”

                “I look like an idiot, don’t I.”

                “No, you don’t.”

                “I do. Of course I do, I-”

                “I’ve never thought that once.” She can feel him standing next to him, thinking. “Is there anything I can help with, today?”

                “I… I don’t know.” A chuckle. “You could boil this for me over and over again, heh… no.”

                “I can’t help you do that to yourself.”

                “I know.”

                A pause. Marie blinks, and looks at her hand. It’s smooth, devoid of wrinkles.

                “How about if you go to the living room, and I make you some tea?”

                “Santino?” She watches his eyes disconnect from her, wave at where she once shuffled around the corner. She backs away. “This isn’t real, this is - memory. I need to get out of here.”

                “Is there anything I can help with, today?”

                That came from Santino. Her head whips up, and he’s picking out a mug. No one else is in the room.

                “What?” She steps closer. “Santino?”

                A heartbeat later, she feels something grab the back of her scrubs and pull. She stumbles back into the hospital, and Alcor breathes a sigh of relief.

                “I found you!” He laughs nervously. “Again. Are you okay? Everything kind of broke apart for a second there.”

                Marie nods. “I’m… okay. I-“

                “Oh, whoa.”

                She watches his eyes go wide. “What?” She asks, and follows his gaze to…

                The doorway. Or doorways - it looks like it’s duplicated inside of itself, and the frame’s taken on a W-shape. Right in the centre, fitted like a keystone, is something small, something glowing, something that makes her heart skip a beat.

                “A soul,” she breathes. Through the doorway, she can see Santino taking a mug of tea into the living room. “What happens now? Alcor?”

                Alcor steps forward, and with one hand he reaches up to the soul. She can see him frown, and then before she can speak again he steps back and tries to yank it out; a pain shoots through her temple at that, and her blood runs cold.

                “St- stop! Stop!” She pushes his arm. “You’re gonna break me, stop!”

                “Marie!” There’s hands on her shoulders. “I’m so sorry! Are you okay?”

                “I’ll be… fine.” She rubs her head. “As long as you don’t start yanking parts of me out again. What was that for?”

                Alcor makes a face. “I’m sorry. I thought it’d work - souls don’t exactly like being in close proximity to each other.” He sighed. “I’ve never… I’ve never seen this. I don’t know how it got integrated into your mind, but you’re right. It’s not going to come out easy.”

                Marie stares at the soul. She reaches up, touches it, feels along the edges. There’s a definite seam there, but it’s thin.

                “Huh. I wonder…” She looks over at him. “Scalpel.”

                “What?”

                “Hand me a scalpel.”

                He raises an eyebrow, but he digs in his pocket and draws one out. Marie positions herself over the soul, and gently traces the blade along the edge. When nothing breaks, she slides it in a little deeper, and feels the soul loosen.

                “Forceps.”

                “Huh?”

                “Forceps?” Marie looks down at him. “Oh, just hand me some tweezers or something, I don’t want to drop this.”

                She feels him slip a pair into her hand, and she gently holds the soul in place while she runs the scalpel down the other edges. It’s very, very loose when she’s done - just the slightest tug, and it comes away.

                The soul is gently glowing between her forceps. The door before her shifts in her absence, straightens into a regular doorway. She looks at the memory, and it’s from her point of view, in the living room. She looks up at a gentle knock, smiles as Santino comes through with a cup of tea.

                She looks down at the soul cupped in her hands. It’s warm, and she feels a tap on her shoulder.

                “You did it.” Alcor smiles. “Give it to me.”

                “What are you going to do with him?”

                “Don’t worry, I won’t hurt it. I just want to release it back into the cycle.” His smile shrinks a little. “It’s where it wants to go.”

                Marie hesitates, but she can feel a sort of restlessness to the soul; little arms of light are trying to worm their way through her fingers. She holds him out, gently places him into Alcor’s hands, and watches him blow on the soul. He fades away, leaving nothing behind.

                “There.” Alcor dusts off his hands. “It’s at peace now. When there’s enough of it back in the cycle, it can reincarnate into someone new.”

                “I see,” she says, quietly. She stares at his hands a moment longer… and then tears her eyes away.

                Turns to look at the hallway of embedded souls stretched out endlessly before them, glittering like the night sky.

                “I see.” She says. “I have a lot of work to do.”

                “Marie-” There’s something in Alcor’s tone that makes her glance at him. He won’t look her in the eyes. “I… uh… listen, I don’t want to pry, but…”

                “You want to know how this happened, don’t you.”

                “I just - I’m sorry I was… less prepared for this, than I made myself out to be.” He stared at the hallway of souls. “Truthfully, I’ve never seen anything like this. I don’t want to make you feel weird, like saying you should be dead or something, but- you should be dead. I’ve only seen damage like this in ancient ghosts and - I don’t know, souls I’m halfway through eating.”

                He barks a laugh. It isn’t a funny sound.

                “So I guess I can’t lie, I wanna know what happened. If you want to tell me.” He blinked. “And I mean, if you even know. Do you?”

                Marie pauses, and gives a grim smile. “Oh, of course I know what happened.” Her eyes trail back to the door, to Santino sitting with her on the couch. Her expression darkens.

                “The time I killed my husband. I could never forget.”