#lads philo

[love-and-deepspace-wiki]

Jeremiah

Age: Unknown

Occupation: (former) Backtrackers member; (current) owner of Philo flower shop

Workplace: Philo flower shop

Residence: Philo flower shop

Note: I'll be covering Jeremiah in two posts. This first one is general information about him. The second will explore a bit of speculation I have concerning his identity. But first, the general info!

Details:

Jeremiah is the owner of Philo, a flower shop in Linkon City. His in-game note gives a good (and insightful) summary, so I'll start by quoting from it: "Aside from selling flowers, he had a lot of 'skills' such as creating new identities and manipulating data so [the protaganist] could enter the N109 Zone. Where did Xavier meet such a friend?"

In Xavier's birthday event story, we finally get to see his full character model!

The Present:

When Xavier takes the protaganist to Philo, she notes that the two interact like old friends and appear to be around the same age. But Xavier jokes that Jeremiah's "not young anymore, so he's a bit slow on the uptake". When Jeremiah first notices the protaganist, he freezes in surprise. But he quickly regains composure and greets her.

"Ah! Long time no... I mean, welcome to Philo. Right, Xavier mentioned you before. You're colleagues, I'm pretty sure. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Jeremiah has a vault of identities, one of which he customizes for the protagonist to aid in her entry into the N109 Zone. He also provides her with a family crest and a box of stuff to make her fake identity more convincing, if need be. When she thanks him, his response hints at familiarity before Xavier cuts him off.

"You don't have to be so formal. I just never thought I'd be able to help you. It's so..."

The Past:

World Underneath - "From the Stars"

In the World Underneath story "From the Stars", we get a glimpse into Jeremiah's past. The specific timeframe of the story is 200 years after his arrival/the crash of Traceback II. In this story, we learn that:

Jeremiah was in love with a girl named Bella (an employee at Sweetie's Cake Shop)

He had rented a house for the sole purpose of inviting Bella to dinner. He also invited Xavier to this dinner to add a "human touch".

Despite 200 years having passed, Jeremiah still can't fully understand the diverse tastes of Earthlings. Xavier frequently references his inability to get used to Earth food. So, he often relies on Xavier's insight into culinary pursuits.

After obtaining the identity of a "normal person", Jeremiah lost contact with Xavier

He had planned to propose to Bella, but she was among the casualties of the Chronorift Catastrophe. The cake shop was also destroyed in this event.

Jeremiah opened Philo flower shop where Sweetie's Cake Shop once stood and, on a necklace, he wears the ring he would've given Bella.

Backtrackers & Traceback II

The Backtrackers arrived on earth with Xavier as their leader/captain and Jeremiah as a member. Hundreds of years ago, Traceback II (their spaceship) crash landed on earth and consequently left them stranded here. After this event, the members of their group adhered to various rules, some of which are detailed below:

Nonintervention Principle:

After helping the protaganist gain entry to the N109 Zone, Jeremiah asks Xavier is he really doesn't care about their Nonintervention Principle anymore, to which Xavier replies that "some already stopped caring about it".

Later in the story, Jeremiah says the following:

"Do you know how long we've been here? All those faces in the Backtrackers- I can't remember them. Don't you have the feeling that people's memories of us are also becoming fuzzier? Especially in recent years? I agree that sticking to the Nonintervention Principle is pointless, especially for us whose presence here was a mistake. And mistakes are bound to be corrected sooner or later. Maybe we're slowly being erased as we speak."

Unwritten Rules:

In this story, the two unwritten rules mentioned are (1) changing locations regularly and (2) avoiding unnecessary contact.

Jeremiah mentions it is his responsibility to repair Traceback II's launcher, but he's yet to achieve this goal over the past 200 years. He says the ship can send out simple signals, but "the positioning system still needs some work". When he asks Xavier if there's really someone on the other side of the Deepspace Tunnel who can respond to them, Xavier says "...You will return in one piece. I'll make sure of it."

Though it had once seemed that nothing could ever tear their team apart, they all "dissolved into the mundane times of this era". But while many of their members either gave up or "left halfway", Jeremiah ultimately chose to stay onboard because he knew he couldn't be replaced. Xavier credits the other Backtracker's abilities to live peaceful lives to the fact that Jeremiah "is still holding on". But he also tells him he can always choose what life he wants to lead.

At the conclusion of one of their conversations, Jeremiah asks Xavier "Captain. Can I come back?". But Xavier just tells him to "do what you think is right".

Philos:

In various conversations with Xavier, Jeremiah hints at a connection with the planet Philos.

"Having Evol doesn't make you invincible... And you're... This isn't Philos. And we, you know, aren't truly immortal. Our kind, I mean."

He mentions that the level of technology on Earth was far behind what they had on Philos.

He says he has little hope anything will happen between him and Bella because "we don't age the way people do here. It wouldn't be fair".

[harmonyrae]

To Love a Prince

Synopsis: A feeling without a name. What you’ve felt ever since he walked into the audience hall on the day of your debut. Love at first sight only happens in fairy tales, right?

Content Warnings: SFW (future works could have NSFW elements fyi), plot & heavy angst, bullying - mean girls style, Sera being a blunt badass bitch once again (bless her), feeling invisible & forgotten (idk what that’s called)

Word Count: 7k

“Ellie! Are you positive you don’t want the book?”

Sera’s booming voice echoed up the stairwell making you cringe and brace for impact. A chorus of crying erupts from the bedroom next door and you sigh, so it begins. A blur of white and loud clicks pass your open bedroom door.

“Sera! The twins were sleeping!”

Cora yells down to her and you hear Sera swear. Your mother chastises her before both women climb the stairs to rush into the room with the screaming children. 

“Pamina no… Jane was just falling asleep!”

You step out of your room and lean in the doorway to watch the chaos unfold. Cora picks up her daughter and shifts her to her hip. Your mother chases after Pearl who had crawled out of the bed with her sister. If Leo wasn’t such a well behaved child you’re not sure how Rafayel and Cora could have managed with the twins. The girls are as wild as Winnie was as a child. Strangely enough, the set of twins that Winnie had a year later were nothing like their mother. 

“Jane, I know you are exhausted, please?”

Winnie was desperate, thankfully Zayne scooped his daughter into his arms to give her a moment of rest. He held his children to his chest and hummed in their ears, calming them down almost instantly. 

Cora and Sera tuck Pearl and Pamina in with a sigh of relief. Zayne settles Jane and Darcy into their cot before checking on Avalon. Theo’s daughter could sleep through anything, you’re convinced. 

“Is everything alright?”

Sylus walks in with Rose fast asleep against his shoulder. Sera gives him a kiss on the cheek before carefully taking their daughter to her cot. You could hear muffled giggling from downstairs where Leo and Sephie were playing with Rafayel and Caleb. 

This was your new normal. The past two years had been nothing but babies and whispered conversations at family dinners. You couldn’t even play your piano unless the house was completely empty. Those moments were few and far between nowadays, with your mother urging your sisters and their husbands to bring her grandchildren by. 

If it weren’t for your debut, you’re not sure your mother would even notice your existence. You know it’s unfair to think like this, but you’re rather used to it. Being the youngest, and quietest for that matter, meant sometimes you were just forgotten. It rarely bothered you, you preferred being alone. Reading your book and playing your piano in utter silence was your idea of a perfect day.

“Ellie, you’re quite sure you don’t need the book?”

Sera’s presence next to you takes you by surprise, drawing you back to the room full of babies. Their parents slip past you, tiptoeing out of the doorway you’re partially blocking.

“Yes. I’ll be fine.”

You turn on your heel and return to your room with Sera right behind you. To your surprise, all of your sisters and your mother are waiting for you in your room when you return. You hadn’t even realized they passed you, perhaps you do spend too much time in your head. 

“Sylus said Leo is already sleeping, even Sephie’s giggles can’t wake him.”

Sera plops down next to Cora who leans over onto Sera’s shoulder and closes her eyes. Theo extends her hand to you and you walk back over to your dressing table. You sit and let Theo finish pinning your hair in place, your long hair is usually twisted in a braid so you’re thankful she took over. You were completely lost in how to fix the mess on your head. 

“Has anyone discovered why the Queen has turned the debutante presentation into a circus? 

Winnie examines your bookshelf, pulling a few out to “borrow” as she makes her inquiry. Your mother, laid back on your bed with an arm over her eyes, just groans in response.

“Most likely due to last season being so dull, no young ladies got married at all! And the balls were apparently ‘too bland’ - even the Queens Ball was a disaster.”

“Who knew stuffing a hundred doves in a box could be so gruesome?”

Sera barely contains her laughter. What was meant to be a glorious release, the sky filled with dozens of beautiful doves, turned out to be a catastrophe. Seems the delicate birds are not so “delicate” afterall, especially if they are fighting for air in a confined space. 

“Time to get dressed.”

Theo taps your shoulder and helps you remove your housecoat. Your dress hung loosely on your petite frame, yet another reason you wish you were more like your sisters. At least they had a semblance of a figure, unlike you. Theo ties a silk belt and does her best to accentuate your delicate features.

“Ellie is bound to be the diamond of this season. Even if the Queen wasn’t asking the ladies to, what did she say… ‘prove themselves worthy of the attention” - Ellie would have piqued her interest.”

Spinning around, taking Theo with you, you stare at Winnie. 

“What do you mean?”

“Not only are you well known in society already, playing at nearly every ball you attend each season, but you are also the last Raeton daughter. The Queen always pays special interest to the baby of a noble family. The last bird to leave the nest. The final act of a magnificent play! Society will remember the Raeton name based on what you do.”

Your jaw aches from how you grind your teeth, your fingers rubbing small circles over the tight muscle. Theo pulls your hand away and turns you to face her. 

“Don’t listen to her. This is your first season, today will be the worst of it. You look lovely, Ellie.”

You can’t help but smile, you could always rely on Theo to calm you down after Winnie riled you up. That was the song and dance of your childhood. Cora and Sera in the stable with their horse, Winnie releasing frogs into the sitting room while Theo sat on the couch with her pen and paper, you lifting your feet to avoid the creature while you practiced at the piano. Now, they all have children of their own and you… well you’re still at the piano. 

“Yes, Eleanora, you look beautiful sweetheart. For the first time I am not worried about a debut, even with the Queens theatics. Ellie, you are charming and talented and kind… I have no doubt this season will be kind to you, even if you don’t find a match right away.”

You may be charming, talented and kind, but you are also awkward, high-strung and timid. Regardless of how today goes, you doubt the season will be any less taxing as all those before. 

The carriage ride to the palace was quiet. You breathed a sigh of relief as you leaned back and extended your hands. You close your eyes and move your fingers over the imaginary keys, humming the melody to the sonata you chose to impress the Queen. It was nothing extraordinary, an original piece you wrote when you were a child that you’ve spent half a dozen years perfecting. Today, you didn’t want to be experimental, you wanted to be safe. 

The palace is crowded, young ladies cling to their mothers while couples huddle together to speculate what each of them will be doing. The doors to the audience chamber were usually open upon arrival, allowing family to file in and wait for the Queen. The guards in front of the doors remain completely silent, which only fuels the wildfire of rumors. 

When the doors open, the crowd rushes forward to find a spot to stand. Your grip on your mothers arm grows tighter and she pats your hand, urging you to keep your eyes closed until she says so. You follow her instructions and steady your breathing. Just get through this and you can go home. Everything will be fine. The Queen’s booming voice startles the crowd.

“Today we are welcoming young ladies into society, witnessing the flower bloom. Watching them bask in the sunlight. However, we are also welcoming a distinguished guest, who will be staying at the palace this season, eager to see what our humble society has to offer.”

The crowd becomes lively as families begin to huddle close to whisper and speculate. The Queen clears her throat and continues.

“Our kingdom strives to have an exemplary relationship with all of our neighboring nations. With news of the mounting tension in Philos, we are offering our aide to bring their country back to its former glory. The King has sent his son, the crown prince, to initiate those efforts. He will be joining us this season as our most honored guest. Please, Prince Xavier, join me!”

The crowd goes completely silent as they turn towards the opening doors. A young man enters, dressed in white, his blonde hair swept across his forehead. He scans the crowd as he walks towards the Queen, his bright blue eyes catch the sunlight and shine like clear diamonds. Your throat tightens and your palms become slick with sweat. You’ve never been a nervous person, how is it that just a glimpse of this prince is enough to unsettle you? 

Prince Xavier sits next to the queen and leans back, as if he’s at afternoon tea and not a formal gathering with all of society. The Queen nods to the man standing beside her, he steps forward and begins reading off names. Young ladies step forward, curtsy, greet the queen and announce what they will be presenting. Some ladies sing, some play an instrument, but when Miss Langford drew a rather impressive sketch of the Prince the Queen was elated. 

“Miss Raeton.”

Your mother squeezes your arm when your name is called. She walks with you, arm in arm. You keep your eyes cast down to the floor to avoid the stares of the crowd and the judgemental glare of the Queen. When you reach the front, you curtsy with your mother and wait for the Queen to address you.

“Lady Raeton, she is your youngest, is she not?”

Your mother stiffens and now you’re the one holding her steady.

“Yes, your majesty. She is.” 

“Well, the final Raeton daughter enters society at last. I do look forward to seeing how you fair during your first season. Am I correct in assuming you’ll be performing a piece on the piano forte today?”

“Yes, your majesty.”

She smiles and gestures to the piano that had been set up for the occasion. The placement was curious, right under the largest windows with the drapes pulled back to allow the sun to nearly blind the player. As you sit, you immediately feel the intense heat of the sun and almost giggle at the thought of the Queen trying to intimidate the player with temperature. Luckily, your piano at home was right next to the window and you were very used to playing under such conditions.

You close your eyes and allow your fingers to rest against the keys, visualizing yourself at home without a huge crowd and two royals watching with your entire social standing in the balance. As the first note echoes through the hall, you feel your shoulders relax and your lips curl into a soft smile. You play with gusto, not holding back as you press the keys firmly and confidently. The song is meant to inspire and it does its job, you feel unstoppable. 

As the song ends, you almost feel disappointed, wishing you could play more. When you look up at the Queen she isn’t even looking at you, she’s looking over at the prince. He leans over on the armrest, his chin propped up on his hand, his eyes locked on you. Your cheeks flush, you stand and curtsy once more before rejoining your mother. The next young lady steps forward and the presentation continues, your mother gives you a quick hug while the Queen is distracted.

“That was marvelous, darling. I���m so proud.”

As the presentations come to a close, the Queen stands and clears her throat. 

“Miss Langford? Miss Raeton?”

Upon hearing your name, you almost trip over your own feet. Your mother gives you a gentle shove and you step forward to address the Queen. Miss Langford - tall, curvaceous, gorgeous - sways her hips as she steps up beside you. 

“I would like to formally invite you both, and your mothers, to tea. Retreat to the drawing room and I will send someone to fetch you. I would like an encore performance, wouldn’t you enjoy that as well Prince Xavier?”

Your eyes flick to the prince, who stares at the Queen in surprise. He nods and offers a polite smile to you and Miss Langford. The Queen claps her hands and waves her hands.

“That is all for today! You may go!”

As the hall empties, your mother fights against the crowd to get to you. She holds you close and drags you toward the window. You’re about to complain, but her lips close in next to your ear.

“I just overheard Lady Danton, the Queen intends to find a match for the Prince this season. It is Lady Danton’s opinion that Miss Langford and you, my love, are her top choices for the Prince.” 

You stare at your mother. She must have gone mad to believe a single word Lady Danton said. You? A suitable match for a Prince? Surely not. 

A tall gentleman approaches you and your mother.

“Please follow me.”

Your mother, Lady Langford, Addison Langford and yourself, follow the man through the winding halls of the palace. He opens the door to a large parlor and you see the Queen, the Prince and other royal family members lounging with their tea. The Queen rises and approaches you, after exchanging pleasantries, she gestures for you to sit and enjoy a cup. 

“Please, have some tea. I shall demand the encore once you’ve had time to replenish!” 

Sipping your tea, you try to think what you’ll play next. You had only practiced one song, while you know countless others, you hadn’t expected this. Sudden changes always make you anxious, you can’t seem to catch your breath. Even drinking, quite possibly, the most expensive tea you’ve ever had couldn’t distract you from what your mother had said. Were you truly being considered a match for someone like the Prince?

You spot him by the window, his eyes lit up in the afternoon sun as he examines the palace garden. He’s tall, broad, well-dressed, rather quiet and his face… he’s unbearably handsome. His soft features and wide eyes make him appear almost lost in the chaotic whirlwind of the Queen’s presence. 

Addison approaches him with a sickeningly sweet smile, her curtsy a tad too low, her torso leaning forward until her decolletage was on full display. In front of the Queen? Her own mother? She’s just asking for a scandal with this performance. She makes small talk with the Prince, the corner of his mouth tipping into a polite smile. You wish you were more outgoing, you’d walk up and join the conversation. If Lady Danton is right, you have an equal opportunity to impress him. Wait, why do you care? Do you care?

“Miss Raeton! Do play us another song!”

The Queen chirps from her armchair, her feet propped up on a cushion as a servant refills her tea cup. You look over to your mother and she nods. You can see her cup tremble as she lifts it to her lips. And she thought your debut would be less stressful than your sisters…

You take a seat at the piano, thankful it is positioned in the corner far away from your audience. Perhaps they will just enjoy the soft music and not pay too much attention. Of course your hopes are in vain, as soon as you begin playing a familiar tune the Queen claps.

“I do love this melody, but oh! Prince Xavier? You must know a duet or two, how about you play with Miss Raeton?”

The Prince stares at the Queen, his posture growing tense as everyone in the room focuses on him. He clears his throat and straightens his jacket. 

“Yes, your majesty, I know a few. However, Miss Raeton’s performance is lovely, I would not want to impose.”

“Nonsense! Miss Raeton, you must play with the Prince! I insist!” 

Well, if she insists... You’ve played duets before, but your father was the only one who took the time to practice with you. It’s been years since you’ve had the chance. You look over to the Prince and bow your head, you’re unsure if he will see the gesture as an apology or an invitation. 

“Of course, your majesty.”

You look over at the Prince, whose cheeks flush as he walks towards you. You move over to make room for him to sit. He raises a brow and hesitates, leaning forward just enough to whisper. 

“Are you quite certain you wish to play Secondo?”

A giggle escapes before you can stop it. Your father had encouraged you to learn how to harmonize by ear, and now it was second nature. Typically, the more experienced player would play Secondo, your decision to sit on the left side was a statement. One you were not willing to take back. You sit up straight and flash a smile. 

“Quite.”

The flush staining the Prince’s cheeks deepens as he sits next to you. If this means you would no longer be a worthy candidate for him, so be it. He tilts his head toward you and stretches his fingers over the keys.

“What would you like to play, Miss Raeton?”

His voice dips as he says your name, slow and sweet. You see his lips part to flash a coy smile in your direction. Oh… your heart flutters and your stomach drops. The way he is looking at you out of the corner of his eye is… why are you so nervous?

“Are you familiar with the Sussex Waltz?”

He nods. You turn away from him and place your hands over the keys, waiting for him to begin. You hear him chuckle softly before he begins to play. Your fingers dance across the keys together, his playing the sweet melody while yours harmonize effortlessly. As the song comes to an end, your hands brush against each other, when he doesn’t pull away immediately you nearly fumble the finale. Closing your eyes, you see it through and when you hear the room fill with applause you open them to look over at the Prince.

“You play very well. I must ask, did you compose the piece you played at the debut?”

You nod, your eyes flit back to the keys. His fingers remain beside yours, his pinky brushes against yours as he stretches his fingers. A shiver runs down your spine as he maintains contact, when you glance at him he wears the whisper of a smile. 

“I… I’d very much like to… to play with you again. If you are willing?” 

Your heart flutters, the way his voice shook as he asked… Your cheeks ache from how wide your smile has grown. 

“I would… very much. Yes, I would like that.”

“Your Highness, that was incredible.” Miss Langford curtsies. You notice how she dramatically bats her dark lashes at him. 

“Thank you, Miss Langford. But I believe the praise is better directed to Miss Raeton. I provided the melody, but she brought the piece to life.”

The Prince watches you, his cerulean eyes scan your features like he’s committing you to memory. You’re too distracted by Addison’s glare to notice how the Prince blushes as his eyes dip down to your neck.

“She certainly did! Oh, your Highness, her Majesty told me you were invited to Lord Blackwood’s ball. I do hope you’ll be in attendance.”

You feel the Prince move his hand away, his pinky was still linked with yours when Addison approached - had she noticed? 

“Yes, I… I will be attending.”

“Forgive me for my boldness, your Highness, but I must insist you save me a dance.”

You stare at your hands in your lap, Addison has always been confident while you hide in the shadows. The way she smiles and dances, graceful and elegant, she’d be a perfect princess. 

“O-of course.”

You stand and curtsy, whispering your thanks and farewells to the pair. You don’t stand a chance. 

“She insisted he save her a dance, he agreed and then he didn’t ask for you to save him a dance?!”

Your fingers spasm causing you to hit the wrong key, turning the soft tune sharp. You’d been playing all morning and your hands were aching, but your newly discovered anxiety had kept you up all night. Playing is the only thing that can calm you down. Your sisters had left to take the children to Rafayel’s aunt’s house a few hours ago. Talia was kind enough to volunteer to watch them overnight, which meant your sisters could truly enjoy the ball. So when they returned to prepare for the ball they were shocked to see you were still seated at your piano. 

Sera sent the rest of your sisters away, promising to get you ready. Cora made her promise to “be nice” and Theo gave her a stern look - they really must think you are too fragile for Sera’s bluntness. Sera nearly shoved them through the door before pulling a chair over to the piano. She propped her feet up on the stool next to your thigh and threw an arm over her eyes. 

“Go on, tell me what’s wrong. And don’t say you’re alright, I know you’re not.”

Thus began the story about your interaction with the Prince, his lingering touch and Addison’s interruption. Sera’s demeanor had shifted from “tell me your problems” to “let’s plot” rather quickly. Now, she was positively livid at the notion the Prince hadn’t asked you to save a dance tonight. 

“I… he was probably surprised by how forward she had been…”

“He’s a Prince! Surely he’s been trained to handle surprising encounters with more dangerous adversaries! And yet he could not muster up the courage to ask the young lady, who he's obviously more interested in, to save him a dance? It is positively ridiculous!” 

“Sera…”

“No! I do not care if he is a Prince. You deserve better! A man who will tell other young ladies that he is not interested. I have known you all your life, you think I do not know that you only play Beethoven and skip tea when you’re upset. Did you even sleep last night?”

You pull your hands back and stare at them in your lap. You hadn’t realized how intuitive Sera was, or that she’d paid attention to your habits so closely. Your silence tells Sera all she needs to know. 

“Ellie… you’re losing sleep over someone who you do not truly know and who is treating you as an option. You are not an option. And if he had any sense, he would have seen that right away.”

“She’s right.”

Sylus’s voice startles both of you. Sera drops her feet off your stool and turns to face him.

“You do not even know what we are discussing!”

Sylus strolls in and settles onto the sofa, unbuttoning his overcoat as he leans back. He smiles, winking at you before he narrows his eyes on his wife.

“Do I need to know? Even if I disagree, I know better than to say so when you’re using that tone, my love.”

Sera scoffs and crosses her arms.

“What do you mean I have a tone? What tone is that, exactly?”

You touch your lips to remind yourself not to laugh, you’ve missed how passionate Sera can become. Sylus loves to tease her, riling her up just to see what she’ll say. 

“The tone of a big sister fighting for better treatment for her little sister. Feisty, with the right amount of bite.”

Sera deflates, her shoulders relaxing as she realizes his intent. 

“Well… she does, does she not?”

“That is why I agreed.” 

Sera turns back around, her cheeks are flushed, but there’s a subtle smile she’s trying to suppress. She looks up at you and tries her best to look stern. 

“Do not give him any more of your attention.”

“Pardon?!” Sylus chirps.

Sera flips her hair over her shoulder and scowls at Sylus.

“I’m talking about the Prince, you crow! Now sit up or you’ll wrinkle!”

Sylus chuckles turn into a belly laugh when you snort. Sera stares at both of you with her arms crossed. She stands and grabs your elbow, pulling you up.

“I despise you both. Come on, you need to get ready.”

Sera guides you upstairs to your room, she begins pulling dresses from your wardrobe - completely ignoring the dress hanging up on the door.

“You are not wearing that boring old thing. We will find you a dress that will make the Prince regret his indecision. He shall watch you dance all night long with the knowledge that his cowardice caused him to lose his chance to be with Eleanora Diana Raeton.”

You don’t argue with her, you’re not only too tired, but also the thought of the Prince staring at you all night… It may be improper, but it is a nice feeling. 

Sera braids your hair and twists the ends securing them with a few bejeweled pins and twists loose strands into delicate waves. Putting your simple dress to the side, Sera pulls one of your more… opulent… dresses over your head. The square neckline and heavy beading flatters your small chest and the wispy sleeves fall elegantly over your shoulders. Your best gloves fit snugly around your upper arms and the necklace around your neck is your absolute favorite. 

“How do you feel?”

Sera looks at you in the mirror, her hands smooth the soft ivory fabric before wrapping around your waist to hug you.

“I feel… beautiful...”

Sera’s smile lights up the room.

“Good. Enjoy yourself tonight, dance, drink, be merry. Do not let the Prince ruin your happiness. And if he asks to dance? Refuse him.”

“Sera!”

“What? Just tell him your card is full and he should have secured a dance last night…”

With that, she turns to bounce out of the room. You giggle to yourself, if only you had the courage to do what she suggests. You make your way back to the dayroom to play the piano until the rest of your party is ready to depart. Your mother is shocked at your choice of dresses, but praises you for your boldness.

The ride to the Blackwood’s manor is filled with the latest gossip. Miss Reed has accepted an arranged marriage, Miss Tate was caught with the stable boy, Miss Krout spent the winter courting Lord Winslow only to reject his offer of marriage. You should really write all of this down, there’s too many scandals to remember.

Lord Blackwood welcomes your family and almost immediately after being announced, everyone breaks off. Rafayel and Cora make for the garden, Sylus and Sera search for wine, Caleb and Theo waste no time joining the other dancing couples and Zayne and Winnie find themselves surrounded by pregnant guests asking for advice. 

You cling to your mother, who whispers encouraging words in your ear. You spot the Queen, seated next to a large floral arrangement, which she is immensely displeased with by the looks of it. Her companions keep her laughing and her glass full. 

Eventually, you see Addison with her usual group, huddled together in a corner. Addison occasionally points to a young lady, eliciting a giggle from the rest of the gaggle. When she spots you she immediately starts walking over. You sip your wine and say a prayer, your fingers digging into your mothers arm just as she arrives in front of you.

“Lady Raeton! Miss Raeton, how lovely to see you both. Eleanora, I barely recognized you… your dress is gorgeous.”

You feel your mother tense, you’re glad she can also sense how insincere Addison is. Before you can reply the booming voice of the announcer echoes through the hall. 

“Prince Xavier of Philos!”

Every head turns to the giant staircase, the Prince stands at the top, he nods to the crowd as politely as he can. His hair is slicked back, with his white double-breasted tailcoat and matching trousers he looks like an angel in the candlelight. He begins to slowly descend the stairs and Addison immediately rushes past you towards him. You hear your mother sigh loudly.

“She’s rather eager isn’t she? She’ll make a young man very irritated… I mean happy one day.”

“Mama!” You gasp.

She chuckles and pats your arm. 

“Do not wait on him all night. Mr Jeremiah Bloom appears to be very interested in taking you for a waltz.”

You stare at her for a moment, it’s rare that your mother and Sera agree on something. But it seems waiting on the Prince to “choose you” is something neither woman wants for you. You search the room for Jeremiah and find him by the dessert table. He tries to appear nonchalant, but you noticed how he’d turned his head away a moment before. Taking a deep breath you make your way across the room.

Keeping your head down, you make your way past the Prince and Addison, only stopping briefly to curtsy before continuing. Your chest aches when you don’t hear the Prince say anything, but when you look over your shoulder you see Addison dragging him to the dance floor. 

“Miss Raeton, coming to inspect the offerings?”

You smile, eyeing Jeremiah as he places a small cake on his plate. He’s an attractive man, curly brown hair, bright eyes, and a sweet voice.

“Mr Bloom, yes, it appears they have a lovely spread this evening.”

He nods, his cheeks turning rosy as you step a bit closer. 

“I must say, I am surprised to see you in attendance, usually your shop keeps you busy all season. Did you provide the arrangements tonight?”

“Yes! Ahh yes, I did. I am invited to every event my shop provides arrangements for, I do not usually attend. I was able to hire a delivery boy this season, so I had more time to relax after finishing the designs.”

You examine the flower arrangement on the table. The pink roses are in full bloom, bright and fragrant. It seems his garden was blessed this season. 

“They’re beautiful…”

“Thank you… Miss Raeton, I would… I would very much like to ask you to –”

“Miss Raeton?” 

Jeremiah’s face pales as he looks at the man standing behind you. The voice is sharp and deep, when you turn to face the man you’re shocked to see the Prince standing a tad too close. Your eyes blow wide when you see him, your legs shake as you try to curtsy, you lose your balance and he catches you.

“Your Highness, I lost my footing, forgive me.”

“I would like to ask if you would honor me with a dance?”

He holds onto your arm, his eyes locked on yours. 

CRASH

A waiter drops a tray of champagne behind you, glass shatters as the liquid soaks into the back of your dress. You gasp, shifting forward, the Prince holds onto you, but your other hand flails and lands right into the top layer of a decadent cake on the table next to you. With the back of your dress wet with champagne, your hand coated in sugar and your confidence sinking into the floor, you let out a pitiful cry. 

You pull your arm away from the Prince and bend to pick up the bottom of your dress. Carefully maneuvering around the broken glass you rush to an open doorway. You can hear the waiter apologizing profusely and the hurried footsteps of the Prince behind you. 

“Miss Raeton!”

You don’t stop. You’re turning the corner when you hear Addison’s voice. Peaking around the corner you see Addison standing with the Prince, her hand on his arm. She leans closer and places her other hand on his shoulder. Your throat tightens, your cheeks burn, tears spill before you can stop them. Your cake-coated hand drops, smearing across your already ruined dress. 

“Miss Raeton will need time to clean up. Would it not be better for your Highness to dance and mingle while you wait for her to return? Surely, she would not wish for you to worry yourself with her condition. Come, dance with me until she returns.”

She tugs his arm and turns him around, leading him back to the dance floor. You’re about to back away and continue your search for a place to clean yourself when you see the waiter. He's still kneeling on the floor picking up broken glass, but he looks up at the Prince and Addison as they pass. The man smiles at Addison, he nods and chuckles to himself as they pass him. 

No. She wouldn’t. Would she? Who would believe you?

You bite your lip and a tear slides from your cheek into your mouth. The salty aftertaste of your tears serves as a reminder - you never stood a chance. You race down the hallway until you find a servant who points you in the direction of a cloakroom. When you find the door, you hurry inside and search for a towel. You pour water into a basin and clean your hand before turning your attention to your dress. The beautiful ivory discolored, drenched from your knee down, the bitter scent of the champagne lingers no matter how much you wipe at the fabric. 

There’s a knock at the door, your mother or one of your sisters must have seen the incident and made their way to you. Sitting down on a chaise to slip off your soaked slippers. 

“Y-yes, come in.” You stutter through a sob, barely looking up when the door opens.

“I-I’m alright, I think I should go… I should go home.” You sniffle loudly.

“Eleanora.”

You stand so quickly you almost tumble over, the Prince shuts the door silently before slowly making his way over to you. Using the back of your hand you dry your cheeks and blink rapidly to dispel any remaining tears. 

“Y-your Highness, you should not…”

“I should not be here?”

He stands in front of you, his brows knit together with concern. You watch the concern turn to frustration as you step aside, trying to create distance. 

“I… I am not…”

That feeling without a name wells up deep in your chest. You’re exhausted and angry, so angry. Why is he wasting his time with you? Why is he here? Addison is waiting for him. You grip the towel in your hands so tightly your fingers start to hurt. Finally, you huff and look up at him directly.

“I do not need your pity. Your intentions should remain elsewhere. I am sure Miss Langford will be a splendid Princess.”

You stalk past him only to be caught and hauled backwards. His hand wraps around your waist, an arm slinking up your back to pull you flush against him. When his lips find yours every inch of your skin is set ablaze. The room fades to white, you drop the towel and grab onto his shoulders, fingernails digging into the fabric of his coat as he deepens the kiss. Something deep in your stomach begins to coil and writhe, your hips press closer to his. He groans softly, which makes that feeling bloom. He pulls back, resting his forehead against yours. His hand settles on the side of your neck, thumb tracing your jaw.

“Never suggest any other woman would ever be worthy of that title.”

His whispered words bring fresh tears to your eyes. He moves his fingers to your chin, his nose rubs against your cheek lovingly. 

“Ever since I saw you sit down at that piano I’ve thought of nothing but you. You closed your eyes, your fingers danced across the keys, your smile… Like the music was singing to you, telling you a secret only you’d understand. I had forgotten what that felt like… to feel for the sake of feeling.”

His thumb traces your lower lip, his own lips drag across your cheek to your jaw. You close your eyes, letting the world fade away as you embrace this moment.

“All I’ve ever known is my duty to the crown. But you reminded me of something I’d long forgotten. Something dead and buried. I did not believe in love until the moment I saw you. You may think I’m mad…”

“No…”

He leans back just enough to meet your eye.

“I do not… think you are mad.”

The corner of his mouth twitches and you lean in to kiss it. He shudders, his hands moving up and down your back like he’s afraid to let go.

“I only want you… please…”

“Your Highness, I –”

“Xavier. Please, please call me by my name.”

You pause, every argument dissolving on your tongue. Love, the feeling without a name. What you��ve felt ever since he walked in the audience hall that day. Love at first sight only happens in fairy tales, right? No. You’ve never been so sure of anything. You love him.

“Xavier…” You whisper.

A soft gasp, he stares at your lips.

“Xavier…” You whisper again, wrapping your arms around his shoulders, your fingers sliding through his soft hair.

“Xavier…”

He closes the distance, his lips capture yours once more. The tenderness from the first kiss has melted into something passionate and raw. His lips move with intensity, faster and deeper than before. He moans and you shiver, gasping at the warmth that spreads through your chest. As his tongue slips in and your knees give out. He holds onto you, backing you both up until you feel the chaise behind you. He lowers you both onto it, one of his hands dipping to pull your leg up to his side. His fingers dig into your thigh and you whimper, letting one of your hands drop down to his face. His skin is hot, his pulse rapid, you want more. 

“Xavier…”

Whispering his name against his lips proves to be your undoing, he groans and dips his lips to your neck. He presses open mouth kisses down the side, to your collarbone and across your chest. His hand begins to pull up your skirt and he lifts himself up to look at you. You nod, urging him to continue whatever he has planned. Caution long forgotten, the feeling of safety, happiness, love… That’s all you want to feel.

His hand dips under your skirt and traces your inner thigh. You gasp, your chest rising and falling faster as he continues to place kisses to your heated flesh. His fingers move higher and higher as his lips capture yours again. Your stomach tightens with anticipation, more, more, more… 

Click

“Oh! Your Highness!”

Xavier flies backward, standing and taking a step back. You stand and straighten your dress, your eyes locking with Xavier for a moment before looking towards the door.

“Miss Raeton…”

Addison Langford stands by the door, a hand over her heart, her face barely holding back her rage. She closes the door and steps further into the room. 

“Eleanora Raeton. I am… Well, I am shocked.”

“Addison…”

“Your Highness, I do hope you are not considering a union with a compromised woman.” 

She looks over her shoulder at the door, you can hear muffled voices in the hallway. 

“Addison please…”

“You shall call on me early in the morning, your Highness. I am sure my mother will be delighted to accept your offer to marry me.”

Xavier hands curl into fists, he takes another step forward.

“I am certainly not the only guest to see Miss Raeton enter this cloakroom. And I did not come alone. I imagine the gossip will be damning when you are seen leaving, your Highness. I may, if so inclined, be willing to dampen those rumors.”

You sob, your hands clutch your stomach. Xavier turns to look at you, he reaches out but you back away. His face twists, anger and desperation melt into helplessness. Someone of his standing, even if he’s the one who compromised you it would be disgraceful for him to propose to you. His father would never approve of the marriage, he wouldn’t accept a woman like you as the future Queen of Philos. Even if Addison covers up your indiscretion, she has the upper hand. You stumble forward, locking eyes with Addison. She has the audacity to smile, but why not? She won.

You open the door and let it swing open fully. Outside, Addison’s mother waits for her, the moment she sees you she gasps. She steps forward and looks past you, seeing her daughter and the Prince inside. You close your eyes and slide past her, but you still hear her mutter under her breath. 

“Disgraceful…”

You continue down the hall, looking up to see the hall lined with a few of the Prince’s guards. They must have accompanied him. A few guests just stare, leaning to look past you. You hear their gasps and whispers as the Prince exits the cloakroom. Your name on their lips, your dress askew, the Prince’s hair a mess - the damage is done. 

Ducking down another hallway, you break into a sprint. Your shoes forgotten in the cloakroom, the cool wooden floors under your feet turn to gravel as you rush through the front door of the manor. You run, your lungs burn and your eyes sting, but you don’t stop. You stumble and fall, your knees and palms breaking open on impact. 

“Miss Raeton!”

Mr Wilson, your family's coachman, rushes to your side. He kneels and pulls his handkerchief from his breast pocket, dabbing at your bloody palms. You look up at him with tear filled eyes. 

“P-please take m-me home.”

Mr Wilson helps you up and escorts you to the carriage. He pulls out a blanket from under the seat and wraps it around your shoulders.

“I will find a servant to tell your mother where you’ve gone. I will be back in a moment.”

He turns and jogs to the house. You sit alone, shivering and bloody. You’ve ruined your reputation. You’ve ruined your family's reputation. And worst of all…

Your heart is completely shattered. ✨♔❤️‍🔥✨

AN: I know. I hurt my own feelings with this one... This is it for Part 1 of the Regency AU series. There will be a Part 2 eventually, which will be the conclusion for each story. Part 2 may have smut or there will be a "bonus chapter" for that. I like how it's SFW yet suggestive imo - let me know what you think!

If you're curious, CLICK HERE to see a breakdown for each couple & their kids/ages. I know it's a lot to keep track of when reading lol

𝕿𝖆𝖌𝖑𝖎𝖘𝖙: @trishiepo0 @not-so-quite-human @kitsunetori @babyx91 @libriomancer @lilyadora @crowskitten22 @letharue @silverbrain @alastor-simp @drama-trauma @0tterteeth @mysticcollectionvoid @godzillaglitter @godoffuckedupcats @klmpun @ariallaisawesome @kiude @tati-the-fangirl @mtcozylove @3fingersofscotch @stxrrielle @angelicspaceprince @hebreeee @beykyuns @sylusgirlie7 @goblynn @moonberry69 @laddelulu30 @mariojins @zhongtar @emneedshelp @xsammijoanneex @bubbleteakittyy @canta-loop @sylus-crow @mikachux3 @msturi2u @katasstrophie @never-justforever @rione-x @lalaluch @bruisedchickensoup @creator-freak

[aikkyuu]

star-crossed lovers of Philos

[lara635kookie]

What if Sylus is a half Wanderer/any other kind of monstrous creature that escaped from Philo? What if he can't die or only die in a very specific way, so Philo kept him incarcerated instead of just killing him and that's how he became Philo's most wanted criminal? We know 28 years old is his real age, because if it wasn't, it would probably be stated like Xavier's "age unknown, fake age 23" so what if Sylus was a new monster, transformed pretty recently, saw his kind being decimated by Philo for some reason and he is now the only one left and swore revenge on them and that's why he did all he did in his anedoctes stories? What if he's on Earth to mess up with Philo's plan for it? What if whatever Philo wants, Sylus finds it first and tortures them with it until they beg for mercy but at the end doesn't give them because it's also useful to him? What if the thing in his eyes is not an aether core but something else that is similar? Because when MC directly asks if he has an aether core in his eyes and that's why he can do that glowy thingy he says:"you could say that" which to me sounded like one of those vague ass answers that neither confirms or denies shit. So what if there's only one aether core in the world? Even BETTER, it's probably MC's Aether Core that Philo and now Sylus wants, so what if Sylus realizes he can't have the aether core and MC and to have one the other has to go? What if he had to choose between having the aether core with its power full on the palm of his hands to fulfill his complete revenge on Philo and maybe some other personal goals or MC's life because you can't freaking have both? I remember I said a while ago that Sylus doesn't have trauma, he is the one that causes trauma. So what if I was fucking wrong? What if I can handle MORE angst? What if I want Sylus to give it to me just like the others have been doing? What if all of it happens? What of any of this never happens? So many questions, no answers at all

[semipreciousgemstonejade]

Random things about Philosian Men...

They sleep during the day.

Personally attacked by spice.

And my favourite trait of all, masters of what I like to call the "Philosian smirk™". IYKYK

I caught Xavier smirking after he untied MC's hair in Wander in Wonder: Floral Blessing. I never realised until a few months ago that it's one of his general animations and I'll never be the same again.

[sinnabarmoth]

Chasing Your Shooting Star (7/19)

(A/N: Ah, it's been a minute. Life got hectic with break ending but we're back! I cannot tell you how many times I have rewritten this freaking chapter!)

Pairing: Uni Student|Xavier x Uni Student|Reader (fem)

Summary: Stuck in the wilderness overnight you and Xavier have a heart to heart under the stars.

Content warnings: Adult language. Dry humping. Burnt out gifted kid hits self-loathing stage.

Length: 2900

Chapters: (First) (Previous) (Next)

Read on AO3

You were fifteen when you had your first kiss. You had been at school and there was a boy in your grade that you thought was cute and you talked every day. Then one morning before classes started you pulled him aside and told him you liked him. His response was to immediately kiss you and at the time it shocked you so much that you had frozen. He had looked really embarrassed when he pulled away and all you could do was stare at him. It was awkward but then after the shock wore off you had pulled him in for another.

You didn’t think that after all these years you’d be in basically the same situation but now with the roles reversed.

One moment you were spiraling and the next your mouth was on Xavier’s. You weren’t even sure what had made you do it. He just wouldn’t shut up about how repressed you were and he kept going on about how worried he was about you. Then he said that thing about doing something for yourself and in that moment all you knew you wanted to do was kiss him.

It took you about three seconds into the kiss to realize what exactly you had done and whatever power that had taken control of you vanished and you pulled back. A hand flew over your mouth, as if that would stop it from betraying you again. Xavier stared back at you with wide eyes and slightly parted lips, as if he was searching for something to say.

“I’m so sorry!” you blurted out, your hand still over your mouth. “I shouldn’t have done that! I swear I didn’t mean to do that!”

“Hey,” Xavier reached out, “it’s okay--”

You flopped down onto your side and rolled away since you couldn’t stand and walk on your bum foot. This was humiliating! Why had you done that? This had to be because you were hormonal. You hadn’t gotten laid in a while and it made everything bubble up and it boiled over and made you do that! Stupid!

“Really, it’s okay.” Xavier shuffled after you. “You surprised me is all.”

“Can we please just forget it happened?” you muttered.

“Why would we do that?”

“Because--because--” you stammered. “Just because! I wasn’t thinking straight and you didn’t kiss me back so I know you weren’t into it and we can just forget it happened and move on.”

“I didn’t kiss you back immediately because I wasn’t expecting you to do that.” he placed a hand on your back. “Can you please look at me?”

You shook your head. You didn’t want him to see just how mortified you were.

He sighed, rubbing his hand up and down your back. You hated how comforting it felt.

“I didn’t think you thought of me in that way.” he said. “And I don’t think it’s bad.”

You curled tighter into yourself. “Please, Xavier, I am begging you. I do not want to talk about this any more.”

“Why not? It seems like we have stuff we need to talk about since you decided to kiss me--”

You shouted over him. “We don’t need to talk about anything cause there is nothing! I told you it was just a temporary lapse in sanity and that’s it!”

“You’re doing it again.”

“Doing what?”

“Crushing your real feelings down so you don’t have to acknowledge them.”

“What part of how visibly embarrassed I am is me crushing my feelings down?” you wondered how long it would take you to dig a shallow grave for yourself. It had to be better than this conversation.

“The part where you don’t want to talk about why you kissed me. Because I feel like I know you well enough to know that you don’t do anything you don’t want to do, temporary sanity break or not. So can you afford me a little more humiliation to be honest with me?”

You didn’t want to be honest with him because it meant you’d have to be honest with yourself first. You had to say something to placate him though so he’d stop talking about it.

“I…I guess it’s because I find you attractive.” True. “I mean, I think most of the school does anyway so what I think doesn’t matter much really. It feels like everyone in our class is obsessed with you and I guess, despite how infuriating losing to you made me, I got sucked into it too.”

“Everyone in class is obsessed with me?” he sounded confused. “Really?”

“Oh please, like you never noticed.”

“I didn’t. I guess I never noticed how everyone else looks at me because the only person whose opinion I've cared about is yours.”

“Why? I wasn't exactly the nicest to you when we met.”

“Maybe so. But that wasn't what was important to me then. All I cared about, all I saw was just how extraordinary you were.” he kept rubbing your back, slowing as he grew wistful. “I didn’t know anyone here and I was nervous about being in such an elite school but then you showed up and even though you didn't like me you showed me kindness. You’re smart and fierce and I admire that about you. I wanted to be friends with someone so amazing.”

You risked a glance at him and saw he was watching you with such sweet tenderness. He hesitated a moment before cupping your cheek, his thumb brushing a smudge of dirt away. “So can we try that kiss again? I promise I’ll kiss you back this time.”

“Don’t feel obligated to just to make me feel better. You said you wanted to be just friends--”

“No I didn’t. I said I wanted to be your friend but if you think I haven’t been dying to be more than that then you are wrong.”

“You…” your eyes went wide. “Do you like me?”

His smile seemed to radiate out from him, casting a warm glow around you. “You’re the smartest and most capable person I’ve ever known, you have so much passion, and you are beautiful beyond words. How could anyone not want to be yours?”

You had been given compliments in the past. One night stands that called you beautiful and stunning because they had you naked. None of them struck you to the core like this. There was a prick of tears welling at your eyes. You could tell he wasn’t saying this just to make you feel better or to butter you up to get you in bed. He believed it. At the very least, that’s what you wanted to believe.

“And what if I don’t like you?”

His smile faltered. “Then we won’t speak about this again like you want and we’ll go back to just being friends. But, do you like me?”

You didn’t know how to answer so you diverted. “Kiss me again and I’ll tell you after.”

He let out a small breath of relief and leaned down to kiss you. You panicked for a moment right before he kissed you. You had bought yourself some time to figure out how you were going to answer him but then all those scared thoughts drifted away when his mouth was actually on you. His lips were gentle yet firm as they moved against yours. Tentatively you found yourself reaching for him again, your arms winding around his neck to pull him closer. His hand cradled the back of your head, fingers tangled in your hair. You felt the gentle prod of his tongue against your lips and you opened them gladly to taste him deeper.

You pulled back for air, eyes half closed and faces only a breath apart.

“One second, let me just,” he pulled you up and sat you on his lap. “Is this okay?”

“Very okay.” You pulled him in to kiss him again. You could feel him smiling against your lips.

Your heart was hammering in your chest. When you had kissed him you had thought you had just made an embarrassing mistake in a moment of weakness. You were mentally preparing yourself to withstand a long awkward walk back to campus and maybe begging your mother to let you transfer to Nesonia University just to avoid Xavier in class. You certainly hadn’t expected him to admit that he liked you and had apparently liked you since you met.

You weren’t even sure what your own feelings were. You definitely thought he was attractive, that couldn’t be refuted. It annoyed you before that he was so good looking cause it would have made him easier to detest if he didn’t have such kind eyes or a sweet smile or a toned and trim body. But you knew you admired him. He was truly a great combatant and he did really well in the academic classes you took together so you knew he was smart. He was also the only person you could come close to calling a friend.

Maybe that was part of what scared you so much about kissing him. If he hadn’t responded in kind then you would have ruined the first real friendship you’d had in years.

But it wasn’t ruined. At least you hoped it wasn’t.

Nothing felt wrong right now, not while he was holding you so close and his lips were so soft and his arms kept your body warm and tingling all the way down to your toes.

You moved your mouth down from his lips to plant a kiss on his jaw and you heard his breath catch and his grip on you tightened slightly. You pulled back to look at him and found him blushing. “Too much?” you asked.

“Not at all.” he cleared his throat, “Can I do something similar?”

“Sure.”

“Good.” he tilted your head to the side and latched his mouth to your neck. A shiver ran up your spine at the feeling of his lips against your throat. His breath was hot as he dipped to the other side of your neck and pressed another open mouthed kiss there.

The more you tried to think up some kind of excuse to give after you were done making out the more insistent Xavier’s attention seemed to get, driving everything else from your head. He had pulled back the collar of your shirt just enough to suck a bruise on your collar where it could stay hidden.

You weren’t expecting it and even more you weren’t expecting the sigh that fell out of your mouth that sounded far too much like a moan. Xavier pulled back to look at you. “Was that--”

Before he could finish his sentence and ask another embarrassing question you cut him off by plastering your mouth to his. You didn’t want questions, you didn’t want any hard talks, you just wanted to enjoy this. At least for tonight you were going to let yourself have whatever it is you wanted with no one to tell you that it wasn’t what you were supposed to do.

Since he had decided to mark you you decided you were entitled to a little love bite yourself. You sucked a bruise low on his neck that was only partially covered by his shirt but he didn’t seem to mind your placement. If what you felt trapped between you was any indication he seemed to really like it actually.

Xavier pulled back, his face beet red as he realized what had happened. “Sorry.” he cleared his throat, looking away from you in embarrassment, “I um…I don’t know why it--”

“Xavier,” you tilted his face back to yours. You could handle this far better than emotions at least. “Did your interest stop at only kissing me?”

“Of course not.” he had pushed your hips back so you weren’t pressing right against it. “But I didn’t want you to think that I was going to try anything else while we’re stranded in the woods. I figured if you said you liked me too then we’d discuss all of that later.”

“We don’t have to do a lot, we can just enjoy the sensation while we makeout.” you threaded your hands through his hair, enjoying the way he melted into your touch. “And if you are interested, I have a proposal for you.”

“What is it?”

“Tomorrow after we get out of the woods and back to campus I am going to go get my ankle checked, report Irene and Dean for trying to possibly kill me, and at midnight you can come by my dorm where I will ride you till my legs break. Does that appeal to you?”

“I found another thing I like about you,” he said, “you’re bold.”

You couldn’t help but smile as he pulled you in for another kiss, this time pressing your hips back against him so you could grind yourself against the bulge in his pants. You weren’t bothering to hide or quiet your moans this time. You both knew what you were doing and there was no shame in it.

He let you control the pace, leaving his hands free to roam your body. You jumped when he found his way under your shirt, warming his cold hands against your overheated body. “Xavier!” you tried wriggling away but he held you in place. “Your hands are freezing!”

“Yes, and I’m trying to warm them up.” he ran them up your back, watching with amusement as your body shivered.

“I am telling you right now, if you ever want a chance at seeing me naked you’re gonna get those icicle fingers off me now.”

“That’s the first mean thing you’ve ever said to me.” he pouted, pulling his hands away.

“Maybe to your face.”

“Did I really make you that angry?”

“Kinda! I was top of my class for so long and then the first day you effortlessly put me on my ass. Who wouldn’t that piss off?”

“I wouldn’t say it was effortless, you gave me quite the fight.” he wrapped his arms around your middle, “I should have known from that moment that getting close to you was going to be an uphill battle. But I don’t regret it a bit.”

“Are you saying that because I all but promised to have sex with you when we get back to campus?”

“Of course not. How many times do I have to tell you that I think you’re incredible before you believe me?” he brushed his nose against yours, “Now can I get answer to my question?”

“About the telling me you think I’m incredible?”

“No. Whether or not you like me. I can tell you’re trying to avoid it but I’m not going to let you distract me again until I get an answer.”

Damn it! You had hoped he wouldn’t have noticed but you really needed to stop underestimating him.

“Xavier…I…” your hands clutched at the fabric of his coat. “I do. I like you.”

“You don’t seem happy about it.” he frowned. “What’s wrong?”

“There’s just a lot going on in my head right now.” you sighed, resting your head on his shoulder. “But I do like you. I think I have for a while but I refused to let myself believe it because I didn’t want to like you. I wanted to hate you. You make it really hard to hate you though.”

“I guess I’ll take that as a compliment.” he pressed a kiss to the side of your head. “Now, it’s late and as much as I would love to continue kissing you we need to get some sleep.”

“Right.” You arranged yourselves in the lean to, Xavier taking his position behind you to hold you again as you slept. “Good night, Xavier.”

“Good night, theá mou.” he whispered as he nodded off.

You heart picked up and you cast your gaze to the starlit sky. Maybe he was hoping you hadn’t taken any ancient Philosian language classes. Maybe he didn’t care whether you understood him or not. The sentiment would not change.

Theá mou. My goddess.

Xavier had compared you to a god once when you had what you thought would be your falling out. Apparently he had meant it. He really did think the world of you, didn’t he? And if you allowed yourself a moment of brutal honesty you knew you thought the same of him.

But didn’t he deserve better? Didn’t he deserve someone who was kind and loving from the start instead of all the vitriol you had thrown at him? He was a good person and he deserved someone just as good. So why settle for you?

You liked him. You liked him far more than you should and it killed you inside. Nothing you wanted was ever truly yours to have and Xavier would be no different. He was not what was chosen for you and so he would disappear.

If you were a goddess in his eyes then he should know that falling for a god never ends well for mortals. They will leave you high and dry with a taste of ash that was once their love in your mouth. And it may hurt the god to leave but not even something so sweet as mortal love can overcome the fear of abandoning their heavenly perch.

[alleyross]

xavier will always look for his first love, and it’s not every mc he ever meets. it’s the first one, that one who died in his arms, too fragile and mortal.

he feels rather distant from the mc whom he left on philos. maybe because he’s afraid to lose her as well, but his nonchalance seems too natural. maybe because she’s not quite her.

the mc from earth reminds him of his first love the most.

and the mc from philos is destined to be forever in a competition with a doomed version of herself.

[lovelaughsimp]

me and Xavier core :3

[moonsavior]

Parallels are so fun

[tumbling-through-deepspace]

Caretaker Foreseer

In a castle surrounded by ice and endless white, a Demi-god meets one who's existence will tilt his world on its axis.

The sweet caress of frosty winds passed through lilac feathers, and laughter rang through the air. Most of her people had already migrated to warmer climates but she was always the kind to not follow the flock.

Lyssa loved this kind of weather, the nippy cold air and light snowflakes that felt soft to the touch and she loved most of all, visiting the tower's occupant and his Jasmin flowers.

The Foreseer. Zayne Li. The two met by chance when she hurt one of her wings and took refuge in his castle of ice and glass.

She had not anticipated the snowstorm that descended upon her during her flight, so the howling winds and blinding snow caused her to fly into a mountain side, fracturing her wing. Luckily, she was taught how to survive if her wings ever became incapacitated.

So, tucking them in, she used her evol to regulate body heat and ventured to find cover. Luckily it did not take long to find a cave which she used for cover.

"Why do I always seem to find myself in some sort of predicament. Can't the gods send some luck my way?"

Said luck was stumbling through a clearing and seeing a grand castle standing tall and majestic.

Believe it or not, she had her moments and felt too lazy to walk, so Lyssa thought it was a bright idea to use her wings to fly to the castle.

It went as well as you think it would go... she did make it up (painstakingly) but crash landed into what looked like a throne room.

"Not your best landing Lys. Do better."

"Who are you?"

Zayne spent his time alone, taking care of the castle and attending to the duty bestowed upon him by the god Astra.

His life mundane but he was content... he thought that until she appeared. Wings of lilac, curly hair that were disheveled by the winds and a voice that echoed with melodies.

At first, he thought she was there to steal from him but after she proved that she was not even knowledgeable about his existence until that very moment, he offered sanctuary.

This left him confused. Others who trespassed never made it this far yet something about her made him act differently.

She explained that her wing was fractured, which she demonstrated as proof. That it would take a few weeks to heal since this was not the first time this happened to her.

How can she say such a thing with such optimism?

The following weeks started off a bit awkward due to their different personalities but as the saying goes: No man is an island.

She followed him like a duckling but was respectful and never imposed when he needed to be left alone.

At some point he started seeking her out. She told him about her flock and that she never felt at home with them, so she would travel on her own.

She would tend to his Jasmine flowers that only bloom when she sang to them.

He never released how lonely he was until she became an important part of his life.

Now, here they were two months later.

"Please Zayne! I promise I won't drop you. It's a perfect day for flying and you can help me test the strength of my wings."

The Demi-god gave her a deadpanned look "I will not be your guineapig, Lyssa. If you wish to have a test of strength, I can make very frigid weather."

They were having a midday walk around his courtyard. Lyssa giggled which sounded like chirps; she then burst into a sprint before taking flight.

Zayne looked up as she ascended higher, admiring the way she did flips and turns. In all his years, he has never met someone so carefree and there was a pang in his heart because she would have to leave. The seasons were changing again.

Birds and ice don't mix. He was surprised that she stayed as long as she did. Zayne blinked in surprise when her face suddenly appeared in front of him.

She was hovering off the ground, wings flapping lightly. A small smile on her face as her luminous violet eyes were filled with mirth.

"You were so deep in thought, Mr. Zayne. It seems that I can handle long flights and high altitudes now without my wing hurting."

His brow crinkled together, "I guess you'll be on your way now."

She took his face in her hands. "Don't make that face. I'll visit. Thank you for taking care of me. Hey! I know, can I give you a gift?"

"Depends on what it is."

"Gosh Zayne, for a Demi-god, you are such a pessimist. I give you my word that my gift will not bring you harm in any way, now or in any future. Would it be presumptuous to say that I feel a connection between us, and I wish to leave a piece of me with you?"

"Do you do this often?" not answering her question. His heart skipped a beat that she wanted to stay connected to him.

"I've only done this with one other person, but I'll tell you about him another day."

"Who is -"

"Another time. I think you'll like him. I have a connection with him, too... the big grouch. So can I give you, my gift?"

Zayne looked into her eyes, a new feeling flared up at the thought that someone else got this offer but her giddy expression and anticipated gaze made him sigh "very well. You have my permission."

Squealing, he was taken off guard when she flung herself at him, her lips fell on his in an electrifying kiss, ribbons of light danced along his skin, and before he could recuperate, she pulled away.

"Now a piece of me will always be with you. I put some of my special evol in your system, so you'll be able to talk to me whenever you want."

"Huh?" What exactly just happened? Why does his skin feel like it's vibrating, and his ears had a faint ringing to it that sounded like singing.

Lyssa snorted, "Not so eloquent... there is now a connection between us. We will always find our way back to each other, plus I'm told by the elders of my flock that it brings the ones who have been gifted, a huge blessing. Don't ask me what it is, it depends on the person."

Zayne's expression softened at her exuberant explanation. She was so full of life. He ran a finger down her cheek.

"Don't go."

She smiled sadly, "I'll return to you, Zayne. This I promise. Unless you come with me, and I fly you to my next destination."

The snowball to her face had her laughing until her eyes watered.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in each other's company, thoughts on one another as they chose not to dwell on her upcoming departure.

The gift bestowed would bring a huge change to each of their lives, one that they could never be able to fathom.

[love-and-deepspace-wiki]

Philo

Location: Linkon City

Details:

Philo is a flower shop in Linkon City. Though it was built on the site of Sweetie's Cake Shop, most locals have already forgotten when it first appeared on a street corner. Its backyard is a greenhouse, and it's third floor is a workspace.

Notable features include its glass windows, which have the ability to conceal the interior and inhabitants from outside onlookers. Activation of this feature causes the glass to briefly flicker before returning to normal.

The first time (chronologically) it was mentioned in the game was in the World Underneath story "From the Stars", where Xavier describes it as overflowing with marigolds. In the present, it has tiny, blue, star-like flowers cascading from its third-floor balcony and onto surrounding the buildings. According to the in-game note, "one can often see starlight surrounding the backyard light fireflies" on nights with little moonlight.

It is owned and operated by Jeremiah (below), who both lives and works at the location.

[soli-nepenthe]

Just throwing a Sylus lore question out there:

Is Sylus a dragon that can change his form at will (human -> dragon) and something in between? His clothing/armour morphing into dragon scales?

Or

Was he once human but somehow entered a deal/became corrupted and now has the power of a dragon? The protocore (?) heart in the middle of his chest looks painful but also the lines from his 4☆ myth card, Bloodnight Blaze,

"Enduring this searing pain is the price of wielding incomparable power" ?

(Is that why he named his crow Mephisto?)

[glitchxavier]

some thoughts about xavier's lore:

there are two versions of mc on philos (that we know of).

both versions were xavier's classmates. how long was he in school for? we don't know when first mc died, but assuming she was reincarnated into a new body, doesn't that mean xavier is like... way older than her?

immortal baby face privilege, i suppose

[nightyl]

my beautiful beautiful prince.

i love him so much. he looks so majestic in this outfit. my favorite, honestly. also that pose? i fw it so much!!

[fandombros]

Was reading Love Notes Scribbled on my iPhone and I had a realization. MC kinda remembers a little of her past life on Philos. The smallest tiniest bit, but it's in there. In one of the calls from Caleb, he offers to fly MC into a hurricane because as kids, she said her home was above the clouds. She loved being held in the sky by his evol since she thought she could fly back home. I wonder if the story will ever let her remember more.