#me and the person would just need to work out ground rules

[lordsardine]

.

[noisilyscreechingsong]

Damian is de-aged to a baby and lost in Gotham. A magic user hit him with some kind of spell. His legs don’t work as well and he has trouble walking. That’s when a man appears and squats down with a tilt of his head.

“Yea, you are definitely not supposed to be out here, little guy.”

Damian glares at the man, early twenties, stubble along his jaw, ragged clothes, and dark bags under his eyes.

The man turns his head to look at the brick wall.

“Are you sure?”

And now he was talking to a wall. Curses. Of course he would be found by a crazy person.

The man suddenly hangs his head with a deep sigh. He regains himself quickly and stands. Moving closer to put his hands under Damian arms to lift him to perch on his hip.

Damian squirms to get down but refuses to make a sound. The last time he opened his mouth like this it was a pathetic baby sound. He couldn’t let this man see him like this.

“Looks like you’re coming home with me, little guy. I can tell you’ve got some spirit in you. Good, you’ll need it.”

Not ominous at all.

Damian stays with the man, mostly because he couldn’t physically drive a car, but also because he was almost always with him. The man would talk to air at the most random times. Obviously a schizophrenic. But Damian had to admit this man, Danny he comes to find out through a neighbor baby talking at him, has been genuinely trying to take care of him and take care of him well. Well, to the best of his abilities anyway. 

He feeds him organic purées that don’t taste half bad, except the carrots, that one was unacceptable. Danny cleans him regularly despite his crappy apartment and makes sure he is dressed appropriately for the weather. He makes an effort to take him out to the park to play in the sandbox or just walk around discovering ‘new’ things.

Damian doesn’t need a parent, he outgrew the concept when he was five and technically he already had one, but he could tell Danny would make an excellent father. Some mistakes can be overlooked compared to the effort he was putting in.

The only concerning thing was the talking to thin air. It took Damian an embarrassing amount of time to figure out the reason Danny was visiting all these random people and the graveyard. (Sometimes he will set Damian down to ‘play’ in the grass at the cemetery. It was quite odd.)

He was talking to ghosts. It wasn’t thin air or imaginary friends, no it was actually dead people. The reason Damian actually believes this is for two reasons.

One, Danny shows true results. Damian observes closely whenever they visit a ‘client’ and Danny always has accurate information despite never looking up or researching anything going in.

Two, he never calls himself a medium or psychic. He doesn’t boast about his ability to see ghosts. He does what he does to help the ghosts move on to the other side. Closure is what Danny always says. Closure for the family and the victim. In Gotham, there are a lot of victims.

Damian adjusts to his new life with Danny. It’s been five months and he’s getting used to being small and vulnerable. He’s allowed to be messy and whiny and childish. Danny never scolds him like Mother did. The man has never hit him or raised his voice at him and never expects anything from him. He encourages his progression to speak and walk, but doesn’t expect the best out of him.

It’s… nice. A good break if anything.

They are at the park when one of the bats spot him and pauses. Danny is blowing bubbles into the air and Damian tries to pop as many as he can. It’s a silly game with no clear rules, but Damian finds it entertaining nonetheless.

“Hi there! Is he yours?”

Dick Grayson wears a bright smile, but Damian can see the tightness around his eyes.

“Huh? Oh, yea, this is Damian,” Danny answers.

He had written it with the wooden blocks Danny had given him one week in. Danny took one look at the name on the ground, laughed loudly and ran with it.

“Do you mind if I say hi? He’s so cute.”

Danny looks puzzled by the request but ends up shrugging his shoulders, not seeing a problem with letting a stranger get close to Damian. (Damian knew Danny’s intense eyes were watching Dick’s every move. He was very protective like that.)

“Sure.”

Dick squats down to search Damian’s green eyes. Damian stares back just as intensely.

“Hey there, Damian. My name is Dick.”

Damian gives him a flat look at Dick’s terrible introduction.

“Grayson.”

Although with his little baby teeth not fully in it sounds more like ‘way-shah’.

Relief flashes across Dick’s face and he gives Damian a reassuring smile. It’s not as reassuring at he thinks it is. It promises to bring him home and restore him to his original age. Damian doesn’t know if that’s what he wants anymore.

Dick stands and gives Danny some imaginary excuse to leave quickly. Damian watches him go and so does Danny.

“Funny guy, huh Dami?”

Damian doesn’t respond and Danny notices his change in mood.

“Come here, little guy.”

He knows what Danny is going to do and willingly goes. He is pulled up into the man’s lap and held between two surprisingly muscular arms. Danny’s hugs are nice and warm. They aren’t too tight like Dick’s nor are they stiff like Bruce’s. He never thought he could enjoy human contact, but Danny has been showing him things about himself he didn’t ever know. Turns out he does like hugs and playing airplane and when Danny runs his fingers through his hair when he’s really sleepy.

“Let’s go home a little early today, huh? I’ll make spaghetti and you can be as messy as you want,” Danny promises.

Damian hums. Yes, that sounds nice.

That night Batman comes in through the window. Damian is waiting.

“Damian,” Batman whispers.

“Bah-mun.”

The flat, unamused stare is what gives him away.

Batman lets out a breath silently and reaches into the crib Danny had gotten him.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

Batman jerks into action, twisting to face Danny who had appeared suddenly. The door behind him is still closed.

Batman stays quiet, silently studying the man before him dressed in pajama pants and a worn t-shirt.

Danny tilts his head as he does the same. Damian has never seen the man so serious. He silently worries for the man. He didn’t want him getting hurt to unnecessarily protecting him from his father.

“I’d have to break your arm if you tried to do what it looks like you’re doing.”

Danny says it so plainly. So simple.

Batman straightens.

“He isn’t yours.”

He doesn’t say Damian is his. He doesn’t claim him as his own. Just that Danny shouldn’t have him.

Damian silently agrees because technically he’s right. He doesn’t deserve Danny. He can’t keep playing house like he’s an actual baby. But Damian is also selfish and over the last few months has been taught that it’s okay to ask for things he wants even if it’s not inherently beneficial. The stuffed dog he sleeps with every night is proof of that.

So Damian says nothing.

“He is now,” Danny answers simply like there was no other answer to such a statement.

“He needs to go back to where he belongs.”

“Over my dead body,” is the immediate response.

They stare each other down until Danny scoffs.

“Don’t think I’m not petty enough to fight you, Batman. I’ll fight anyone who wants to take him from me. Damian is mine.”

When Batman tries to forcibly take him, he ends up with a concussion, a blood nose, and two broken arms. Red Robin finds him in a dumpster the next morning.

The story continues with Damian learning how to be a child his age, Danny protecting him and doting on his brilliant son, and the Batfam’s frequent failed attempts to kidnap Damian back to them.

[lizardho]

I came out to my dad as bisexual at 14 and I was PANICKED because I had a crush on a guy in my Boy Scout troop and thought I was Going To Hell Forever and he was so kind and understanding of my distress, but he had NO idea what bisexuality was. He just said “yeah but you like girls too? This is normal. Everyone is like this.” And I love my dad and trust him with my life to this day and the idea that the concept of bisexuality had not occurred to him had not occurred to me so I put it off.

By 16 though I had a crush on like THREE boys. Three entire boys in my Boy Scout troop. I felt like my sin was slowly advancing, until like an untreated cancer it had become metastatic. I remember bawling my L’il limp-wristed sissy eyes out in his big rumbly truck on the way home from a scout meeting and him telling me that it was OK, that he still loved me if I was gay, but that he knew I wasn’t gay because I still had crushes on women and that meant I was straight. I didn’t quite know how to explain that those felt *~*different*~* and that I felt like I was losing a fight to evil inside me but I again felt comforted by his reassurances and his genuine fatherly love.

At 18 I was like “hey I’m realizing all my friends are going on missions. I don’t wanna do that. Idk how to say that and I don’t have a ‘good enough’ reason to not wanna go.” So I just put it off. Again, my parents were extremely supportive of the information I gave them (I blamed it on perpetually forgetting to start the paperwork.) and one day my mom texted me that she had done the paperwork for me! And that all I needed was to get a physical! So I did that (it was awkward af tbh, my hernia check was done by a trainee doctor and she spent like 3 minutes fishing around my inguinal canals before her attending rescued me) and was sent to Mexico City where I learned that in addition to dipshit himbos with strong hands and scruffy guys with artistic hearts I was REALLY into chubby Latin men with strong personalities who bullied me a little when I lived in Mexico.

I remember my first companion got annoyed with me during an argument and said we were just gonna wrestle and whoever won the wrestling match won the argument (I stg I am dead serious this happened.) I was like…SWEATING when he tore off his tie and threw his white button-down shirt onto the ground (I won btw, don’t ask me how).

I remember one of my companions with this really intense, almost manic energy telling me that he was gonna make sure I was safe in a new area I didn’t know very well. He cooked breakfast for me and we’d go shopping together on P-Days and in the mornings before breakfast he’d jog around and do pull-ups with his shirt off and I’d do anything but look at him because my face would break out in a sweat so intense he’d think I was crying and come over to see if I was OK and somehow make it worse. He let me play D&D with myself in the evenings even though it was against mission rules because he knew how lonely and stressed I was.

I remember one of my companions was a big chubby man with a loud voice and a great sense of humor. He was kind and direct when addressing conflicts with me, and always bragged about how he knew the secrets of women’s minds and it felt like he really did since it almost always boiled down to “Treat Them Like People and Love Them a Lot. Don’t Stop Being A Person For Them. Also Eat Them Out Sloppy Style.” Our P-Day activities sometimes felt like dates, and it seemed like he was more attentive to my emotional state than I was since he was always the first to suggest we slow down our Divinely Mandated, God-Ordained, Super Sacred Work and Wonder to get a snack or check out a Pawn Shop (I love Pawn Shops).

I remember another companion who asked me to bully him every time he did something against his goal of losing weight. It was like he gave me Carte Blanche to take out my crush on him by being a nuisance and I LOVED that. I remember having a breakdown one day after we’d spent the afternoon frantically cleaning our disgusting-barely-habitable mission house to make it look less vile that it was (not our fault imo?) and I started bawling and he pulled me into a hug and he smelled good and he told me he knew it wasn’t just the house and that I was mad at him for being a Huge Dickhead for about a week (true) and that he would work on it. (He’s also a huge chaser but that’s a separate thing.)

I remember one of my companions waking up early (and our schedule is already built for sleep deprivation) to make me a “birthday cake” from knock-off Nutella and bread. He used matches for candles and woke me up, lit the ‘candles,’ pulled them out, then smashed it in my face and took a bunch of pictures while I was still madrugada and disoriented as fuck. He had the same sense of humor as one of my HS crushes and I could push his buttons pretty easily which was so fun.

I came home from my mission and started back at BYU where I became actively and aggressively suicidal. I had a stalker the year I moved up there and my dad’s solution to that was to get me a gun. I know he wouldn’t have bought me a gun if he could have read my mind, but I had a loaded pistol under my bed during a trifecta faith/sexuality/gender crisis and that was not helpful. I remember that the day I decided to kill myself I figured I’d call the BYU CAPS and see if I could get into therapy because it felt like what I was “supposed to do” so I could check my suicide boxes. My therapist was the guy who’d helped me pick a major the year before and was this drop-dead gorgeous Hawaiian man who cried when I told him how I’d been feeling.

A few weeks into therapy I met another stunning man with soft eyes and a scruffy illegal-at-BYU beard he kept pushing his luck with. He was funny, kind, patient, married, and wouldn’t give me the time of day if he knew I was crushing on him. We were in my history of psych class, which was inarguably the worst psych class I have ever had, and we studied together for every assignment and test and I realized that my feelings for him and for all the men I’d already mentioned were in direct conflict with my faith and relationship with God. My already agonizing spiritual conflict became even more wretched and as a result of this plus some other tightly-packed experiences with Mormonisms bullshit, I left the church.

After leaving the church I decided to move back to AZ and transfer to ASU. My mom helped me get a dog since I think it had started to dawn on my family that my mental health was barely getting me through the day, and she knew that we both loved dogs. Madi made my last year at BYU livable while I got my shit together and transferred. In that last year, I went on a date with quite possibly the only semi-openly-out trans person on BYU campus. It was not a great date imo, I was not doing well, but the person I spoke with was fun and fascinating and talked to me about Gender Dysphoria and it really cemented my need to go. To leave and never come back to that fucking school.

I started at ASU a month after my last semester at BYU and within a very short time frame it felt like I was coming back together, like a puzzle magically putting itself together in an environment that wasn’t slowly draining that puzzle’s will to live.

On the 4th of July, the year I started at ASU, I saw a transition timeline photo of a gorgeous happy beautiful happy radiant happy woman and her former Mormon missionary self and I realized the light that was on in her eyes was the light that was off in mine. I looked into transitioning for 3 days, sleeping about 10 hours total during that time. I started talking to other trans people on Reddit (one of whom is now my beautiful fiancée @cintailed) and after about a month of making preparations to be disowned and kicked out, something I was not sure would happen but was ready to go through to Turn On The Lights, I came out to my family and it was amazing. I started HRT a month after that. I secretly dated some dorky guys for about a year while I applied to grad schools. I got into a great grad school for me and my needs. I got FFS. I did my trainings and classes. Me and my fiancée moved in together after some LDR shenanigans. We’ve lived together now for 4 years of basically marital bliss. We have a cat named Grandmother Esmeralda Weatherwax who bites the hell out of my feet about three times a day. My bi-cycle continues to be part of my life but now it’s not as scary. Baby gays in my life have started to look to me for advice. Idk how this all happened so fast. When the years, months, weeks, days, and hours seems to crawl by so slowly now they are rushing past me so fast it’s almost bewildering. Whereas before I felt like I was living on borrowed time, past my ‘expiration date,’ now it feels like I can Fucking Breathe. I’m training myself to slow down now and it feels worth it to Live In The Moment.

Idk why I wrote this. Idk why these thoughts only seem to come up on Sundays when I’m supposed to be writing my dissertation. Idk why I’m crying rn or why I feel so happy. I’m gonna post this shit then get on with my dissertation I guess. Read more Terry Pratchett and give yourselves the time you need. Get a pet. Talk to someone. Re-examine the events that brought you here. Be gayer. Love y’all 💕

[writersdrug]

Training for Two

Chapter 2. Rules

Masterlist

Summary: Simon lays the ground rules and shows you around the house.

Warnings: Simon's email etiquette, very mild cursing, beginnings of obsessive behavior.

Sure enough, Simon had emailed you by Tuesday afternoon. You noticed how... unprofessional it was. Not that he had been rude or obscene, but it was obviously written by someone who never had to write many emails for his career.

here is riley's routine. she likes walks, usually 3 or 4 a day. she eats one scoop in the morning and one at night. she doesn't finish her food all at once, but she'll come back to it. if you're gonna give her more cookies, just two per day. fill water every morning. around the house, if you could just dust and clean up any dog hair, that would be great. let me know if meeting me tomorrow at 0900 for the key works. I ship out thursday. thanks.

Simon.

You chewed your thumb nail, reclining on your couch with a confused expression. Was he irritated with you for some reason? He didn't show it at the interview if he did have any hostile feelings... you reminded yourself that he was a rather gruff man, and maybe that just bled into his written words, too. You rolled your shoulders and started working out your reply.

Hello Simon! Tomorrow works perfect for me, I'll be there by 9 am!

Does Riley have any favorite places she likes to go? Any particular spots or trails she enjoys? Also, are there any rules you have for her, like being on the couch? Is she ok going to the dog park? Lastly, does she take any medications I should be aware of?

See you soon!

You sent the message, sighing and dropping your head back against the arm of the sofa. You were honestly thankful that you'd gotten the job, even if Simon was a rather stiff client. You finally quit your shitty job, and while you did still have babysitting your niece and nephew, you never charged for that - the only time you were "paid" for it was when you took them out somewhere fun, and your sister forced you to accept money for the admission fee.

So this gig fell into your lap at the perfect time. And the fact that you had beat every other person Simon had interviewed made your ego soar. It wouldn't be a bad idea to make a career out of this, you thought.

Your phone dinged - you held it above your face, and saw that Simon had already responded. You sat upright and opened the email.

she only takes aspirin when her leg flares up. no more than twice a day. no favorite trails, we just go around the block a few times. she can sit on the couch, my bed too, but she'll need help getting up. no human food is the only other rule. never took her to a dog park, but if you really want to, that's fine. she's good with other dogs.

Simon.

You frowned. Walking the same block every day, multiple times each day, sounded awful. It wasn't even close to animal neglect, but you couldn't imagine walking the same route every single time. If it didn't drive Riley insane, it certainly would for you.

You read back over the email, your eyes lingering on "if her legs flare up." Simon had never discussed Riley having arthritis with you - and you sincerely hoped that was the reason she had leg pain, and nothing else. You made a mental note to ask him about it tomorrow as you began to write your reply.

Understood. Thanks again!

"Here's the basement." Simon said, leading you down the stairs and into a dullish room. It had a cheaply-manufactured desk, what appeared to be a dining chair (not matching the dining set upstairs), a stuffed bookshelf, and some cardboard boxes filled with paper. A fan stood in the far corner, and next to it was the washing room. Much like what he had shown you of the rest of the house, it was bland and drab.

You looked around, letting out a polite noise of approval. Truth be told, Simon's life seemed awfully boring to you. Your mother had always told you that military men were always overly practical, in more than just home decor. They never cared much for the environment around them, as long as there was no mold, or anything similar. But you had never expected it to be so brutally true.

You knew he had a life outside of his home - from the way he described it, he was usually deployed more often than he was in his own home country. But you wondered - what did he do for fun, besides watch the telly? Did he have friends, and were they all like him? Any hobbies?

"If for whatever reason y' need to clean up a stain, you can find solution in there." He said, pointing to the washer room. "Other than that, nothin' much to see down 'ere."

You followed him as he trudged back up the stairs. Riley was sat upright on the floor, watching you and Simon move about the house with an observant expression.

"The only other things I'll ask you to do is hoover n' dust when it looks like it needs it." He said, leaning against the kitchen counter. "There really isn't much else t' do; of course, if you do see anything that needs fixin' you can always text me." He rolled his head from side to side, wincing as he worked out a crick in his neck. "Might not answer immediately, but I'll see it."

You nodded, standing in the walkway of the kitchen. Even with him leaning against the counter, muscles hidden under his sweatshirt, he was huge. For a brief moment, you imagined what he looked like on the field, dressed in his uniform and holding a gun - but you quickly shooed the thought from your mind before it had the chance to latch on and fester. "Gotcha. And just so I know, do you let Riley sleep with you?"

Simon paused in confusion before he responded. "Come again?"

"Like- you know, if I crash on the couch, is she allowed up with me?" You said, shifting your weight. You couldn't quite tell if Simon was irked by your question, or if he was genuinely confused.

He paused again. "Uh, yea, that's fine. If y' don't mind waking up covered in 'er slobber."

You laughed. "Nah, I'm used to it. A little drool never bothered me. Although, if I do need to wash up, am I alright to use the shower? Or would you rather I use my own back at my flat?"

Suddenly, it clicked in Simon's head. You were planning on sleeping at his house.

He had assumed you would just stop by for walks and meals - he didn't expect you to actually live here while he was gone, and he wasn't sure how it made him feel. He'd never had anyone else spend the night. Hell, no one ever visited, besides the rare occasions of the rest of the 141 stopping by. Even then, they never stayed for longer than a conversation or two.

But, once he took a second to think about it, he realized it might be better if you did stay - at least, while he was on missions. Riley would be bored out of her mind if she was alone that long, especially after spending the past several weeks with Simon constantly there. It would be good for someone to be there when he wasn't, and you seemed like you would be the best person for that, of course.

"Sure, 's fine." He said, rubbing the back of his head. "Just don't touch my shit in there."

"Don't worry about that..." You said quietly, "catch me dead and cold before I touch a 3-in-1 anything."

He chuckled and rolled his eyes. It was refreshing that you could handle his gruffness - most people treated him like a landmine, never wanting to say the wrong thing and set him off. You seemed to have taken life by the horns, like you weren't afraid to bite back at someone. He wondered if that was all for show, or if you really would snap back if he was to test you...

He pushed himself off the counter and reached into the drawer behind him, pulling out a spare key. He walked over to you and held it out. You were just about to take it, when he suddenly yanked it back.

You faltered. "Sorry...?"

"You lose this key..." Simon began lowly, "n' I'll frame you for murder. Understood?"

You gaped, mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. He didn't really mean that... did he? You waited for him to laugh and say he was just joking... but he never did. His eyes bored into yours so intensely, making you shiver, as he waited for you to answer.

"Y-yes, sir. Understood." You said, voice wavering a bit.

He grunted in satisfaction, then handed you the key. You let out the breath you had been holding, then cautiously took the key, before immediately attaching it to your lanyard. You didn't want to take any chances at losing it - not after Simon's threat. You took a deep breath and smiled at him, trying to dust the exchange off of your shoulders.

"You can come 'round tomorrow after o' nine hundred, I'll be out by then." He said, turning sideways to moce past you and heading towards the door. You followed behind and rubbed Riley's head when you passed her; she let out a contented sound.

"Feel free t' use the kitchen if you'll be stayin' overnight." He opened the door for you and leaned against it.

"Will do, thank you!" You chirped, hovering on the landing outside of his house, right were you were two days ago. "Thank you for showing me around - good luck on your- mission- deployment, thingamajig!"

He huffed. "Promise I will, luv."

Your spine tingled in response to his comment. Get it together, don't get your knickers in a twist over a client. You thought. You straightened your posture and cleared your throat.

"Well, see you around!" You said with a smile, then hopped down the steps to your car.

Simon waved, taking a moment to watch you pull out of his driveway. He shut the door and leaned back against it, exhaling slowly through his nostrils.

He was an observant man - he had to be, with his occupation. Your reaction to being called "luv" didn't fly over his head. And it's not like Simon didn't know the effect he had on women... he knew how he looked, how he presented himself, and he saw the reactions it got him.

But with you, something felt different. He saw your reaction, and a part of him wanted to chase after it. To see what you would do if he continued to apply pressure to your weak spots. Would you blush? Would you call him out? Would you drop the gig altogether?

He thought about how easily the word "sir" had rolled off of your tongue. He thought about how you would look, all tuckered out on his couch, donned in whatever pajamas you decided to wear, your face peaceful and expression soft as you slept - he imagined you in his shower, the room filled with warm steam and the scent of your shampoo, water hitting your skin as you-

Riley barked, making Simon jolt where he stood. She stared at him, ears turned to the side as she whined. She could always tell when he began to dissociate, and knew just as much as he did that it wasn't a good sign.

Simon sighed, running a hand down his face. "Get it together, fuckin' creep." He muttered to himself. "I need a bloody hobby, f' Christ's sake..."

He blamed it on the upcoming mission. He would typically stress about it beforehand, and if there was anything else that could occupy his mind, he would fixate on it. Right now, unfortunately, you were the victim. But he buried it deep down into his subconscious - it wasn't fair to you.

He pushed himself off of the door and headed towards the washroom, adjusting his crotch as he went. He figured he should at least tidy it up a bit, since you would be using it. The only other people who had been in there were Johnny and Captain Price, and of course, they never cared if there were trimmers on the counter, or if the mirror had splotches from toothpaste residue.

Hopefully, he'd forget all about you - at least, while he was on the mission.

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[inkskinned]

the car broke down by the denny's where you used to work and therefore could never return to. i am trying to pick out the satisfying parts of my life, one-by-one, like i am 12 and in a frog dissection. everything in my life all viscera and formaldehyde. if i can sort the good things from the bad things, i will have a nice clean pile.

i call you and make it sound like i am happy and hangin' in there! when really i am kicking a rock and i am outside without a jacket and i am so in love with you it makes the little bones in my ear shake. someone called my tinnitus an angel choir. i like that it means i carry the echo of every concert.

this isn't the right setting for love. this is a roadside, and a denny's, and i am nauseous and ashamed i never escaped the town where i grew up. the clouds here are this strange yellow, like spilled sour milk. "someone once told me that the orange coating on the teeth of a beaver is due to the particularly high rate of iron in their enamel," i tell you. "the beaver is the largest rodent native to north america."

your voice is crackly on the other end. i'm going into a garage soon, i might lose you.

what i should be doing is calling the tow truck and explaining that my brother's car (that i'm borrowing) (that i broke now, i guess) needs to be lifted by another, bigger, stronger car (which is love too, i guess).

i shouldn't say so much. i should wait, and let you ask about my mom, and ask if i ever got over that cold, or how it's going at work. i should let you lead the conversation, for once, so the love doesn't leak out of me into the gravel. i open my mouth anyway. "if you had to choose between being a beaver with very few trees or being a tree around a bunch of beavers, which would it be?"

i don't know. your voice always has this warm cast to it when you talk to me, but maybe i am just imagining that - i am a poet, though, so i imagine things sort of chronically. through the static, you sound like you're laughing. are you the beaver?

i know, like, logically, not to fall in love with a girl-that-is-your-best-friend. like, who would i even call if we broke up? you're my best friend, you're the person i'd want to speak to. so what if these last few months we keep sleeping over at each other's houses, calling each other for hours, sending each other poems. so what if you keep wrapping your fingers into mine. no best friends. that is the first rule. what you are supposed to do in that situation is leave the situation.

but my car broke down, so. where exactly am i going to go? the car is a very-old chevvy and also where i almost-but-not-quite kissed you after you'd raised one shoulder and looked up at me and said i don't know, i think i'm straight, but for the right person - i'd try anything. the music had been good and it had been raining and your thick eyelashes had made me feel god crawling up my throat like a spider. and i didn't kiss you, because i am a coward.

anyway on the chevy the whole exhaust pipe fell out, and is now scraping on the ground like one silver finger stroking the back of the highway. recently we were watching netflix in my bed and you pushed my hair back from my face like you were making the slowest, most desperate prayer, and then your boyfriend called. i remember us both jumping. i couldn't look at you in the eyes for like a week after. i kept feeling the heat of your fingerprint; computer science, you'd unlocked something dark in me.

google says the closest tow (joe's pick up) is 50 minutes away and also closed permanently. so that's not great. you live in another state and i should be calling my insurance company. i should be calling anybody else. this is not helping. i need an uber. i need to get moving. instead i say: "i need three words for a poem."

yesterday i said love you, goodnight after our 2 hour call like always and then you just, like. paused. all i could hear was your breathing. and then you'd said what a pretty three-word poem. i love you too, sweet thing. the words made my tinnitus act up again, and i must have some kind of synesthesia, because the sound travelled into my mind until it became the shape wedding rings.

orange, you say. the static is now chewing through most of your words and i only catch - borrowing the chevy -

the call dies. i have 12% battery. i never get the 3rd word, but i know you're still going to get a poem from me. actually this rest stop is kind of pretty, and so is the exhaust pipe, and so is joe's pick up, and so are the clouds. the light here is the color of a glue trap. before you worked at the denny's, we used to get milkshakes every wednesday and called it a friend date. you said you'd wanted to work there because it reminded you of me.

the sign's gone dim. the letters now spell out deny. and isn't that something.

[riizebabie444]

𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚

─── hey everyone, back with another pac. this one is about your future spouse and your family life with them. please remember to support with reblogs and feedback!

i'm currently going through a tough time financially and would appreciate if you considered booking a reading with me <3

─── picking your pile: take a deep breath and allow your soul to centre itself. when you feel your mind balanced and cleared, allow yourself to be drawn to an image. your eyes may gravitate to one, or you may close your eyes and feel which image is calling out.

─── be sure to check out my other readings and don’t forget to share and give feedback. disclaimer: all readings done are for entertainment only. please do not use my tarot readings as a replacement for legitimate advice.

ʚɞ ─── masterlist. paid readings. exchange rules.

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pile one

who is your future spouse?

with the hermit and the queen of swords, i see your future spouse being an introverted person, they like to spend a lot of time alone. perhaps this is because of past relationships that made them prefer to be alone, but i also see a case where they just like being alone because they would rather have zero connections that put up with bullshit people. they trust their inner guidance and don't force themselves to be around people that don't add value to their lives.

in that sense, they say it how it is. if they're not happy about something, they'll make it clear. they are perceptive and hate when others have hidden agendas or sly intentions. they can see right through it. they're a quick thinker, intellectual and emotionally intelligent. but sometimes a bit to harsh and strict with both themselves and others. they can be judgemental sometimes. however, they are a wise person who cuts through the noise. they see the truth easily.

how will they love you?

with two of pentacles and eight of pentacles, they seem like a practical lover. they seem like more of a traditional lover too. not necessarily in the way that they will fulfil traditional gender roles in a relationship, but in the sense that they seek balance above all else. they want to be on equal grounds with someone, and understand a relationship and love in general takes a lot of work. so they will fulfil the role in the relationship that you both expect of them, and they also expect the same from you.

they will work hard to meet your standards, so you will also need to work hard to meet their standards. they show their love with equality, equal effort, equal treatment. for most of you guys, this doesn't mean equality with money etc, like splitting the date costs. but more so about the effort you both put in. that being said, they will put in a lot of effort. relationships are an investment so you will definitely feel like they are investing in you by maybe spending money on you, spending time with you, sharing things with each other. they don't love for what they can gain, they love for what they can share with you.

while you are dating, i do not think they are the most romantic person. they are more practical than romantic but that doesn't mean the feeling aren't there. they just express their love in different ways because that is how the circumstances they've experienced has shaped them. i do see they have big love for you and they try really hard to show it, but it won't always be in the ways you want or expect.

family life with your spouse

with knight of cups and justice, family life however does seem more romantic. i think living together and having a domestic life together will definitely change how they express their love. they will be more obvious with their feelings and needs for you, they will adapt and express their love in the ways you like. i'm seeing more romance and grand gestures which they may not have understood prior to marriage. but after marriage and having a family, they understand it better and will show you. they will be a lot more emotional also.

i see they will still be practical. they could be a bit strict about routines, especially with children. though, family life will open up both of your emotions as there is so much to explore with a family. i see it being very chill and peaceful, some conflicts here and there but honestly, family life seems nice. it will be fair and equal. you will both contribute to the home fairly, they will recognise when either one of you is doing too much or not doing enough, and then they will work to balance it out. i see fair treatment for all children, like no favouritism or double standards. i see a lot of accountability and responsibility. family life seems so mature but in a good way.

pile two

who is your future spouse?

with ten of wands and justice, they seem like a burdened person. they have experienced a whole lot in their lives. they are someone who is afraid of being judged, they might deal with anxiety, but they try not to show it. they are someone who bottles feelings up instead of sharing them. they may be dealing with struggles when you meet them, but overall, they are talented and hard-working. but may sometimes work too hard and burn themselves out.

they have a lot integrity though. if they say they're gonna do something, they will. this could also indicate they have a hard time saying no so they often end up having too much to do which leads to them feelings overwhelmed and exhausted. honestly, your spouse seems like a bit of a mess, they need more balance in their lives. i think they're prone to escapism. i'm supposed to be getting positive messages but with this pile, their messy energy is strong. they have good morals, they won't ever do something they know is inherently bad. they are law-abiding, and maybe follow the rules too strictly. but they are also a lover of simplicity. simple is beautiful to them, and they pay attention to details.

how will they love you?

with the knight of pentacles and wheel of fortune, i think your spouse meeting you is a pivotal point in their life. like they will experience so much clarity in your journey together, and i'm seeing it can help them to change their ways. naturally, they are a good planner so they will love planning things for you. for examples, planning nice dates that fit your taste exactly or planning surprise gifts for you. they'll take notice of all the things you like and don't like, everything they learn about you will be stored in their brain for future reference. they will be hard working when you are with them, in their job, with their family, in your relationship. this energy is different to their overall energy, so i'm seeing they will really change when meeting you or prior to meeting you. they will start to get their life in order.

they will be so kind and loving, they won't let anyone treat you bad. they will also try to deter you from bad decisions also. i mentioned already they are strict with morals, so if you try to do something they don't view as good, they will try to stop you. not in a way to control you but to show you how to be the better person and not stooping to low levels. like, of course they will defend you. but say if you're just being petty or bitter and it is influencing your decision, they will guide you to the better path. they will love you by constantly reminding you how they think destiny brought you together. they will rejoice in your successes and share their own with you.

family life with your spouse

with the hermit and the chariot, i see that you guys will be very private. i think after getting married, you guys might become recluses but it is just because you guys want to spend so much time together without anyone else bothering you. i think maybe you guys might move somewhere new to start your family so you might not know a lot of people, which can also explain your guys' privacy. i see so many late night talks throughout your lives together. you would not get bored of hearing each other talk. you would also help each other uncover your dark pasts and difficult emotions, and face them together.

i see you guys having a lot of willpower. if there's something you want to do as a couple or a family, you will do it. i see children for some of you and not children for others, so take it as it resonates. you will make decisions that will be in alignment with your values. as a family, i see a whole lot of determination. not letting outside influences get to you or your children. you guys would overcome anything. i see so much mundane, day to day domesticity, but also balanced out with exploration of the world. your family could have regular holidays to travel the world. you could have an active family also, like physically active but also just active in the community. if you have children, i see them being very goodhearted. you would raise them well.

pile three

who is your future spouse?

with the moon and ace of pentacles, i'm getting lucky girl/boy syndrome from your spouse. they feel so young-spirited, but they have also experienced a lot. i'm also seeing pretty privilege, so they would be very attractive, and perhaps it helps them to get the things they want in life. however, i think they are quite emotional, and they have a big imagination. they dream of big things, and bright and eventful future. and i think they are known for being caring and nurturing. they have a lot of empathy. but although they are emotional, i see them being quite practical too.

it seems like they're good with money, they don't have a lot of trouble finding good jobs. overall, you will think they are so lucky. security and stability is important to them though, so that's why they are happier and brighter when things go their way. they like to embrace new beginnings but they will always consider the risk. they might come off as careless and impulsive but honestly a lot of thought goes behind all of their actions. they don't do things for the sake of doing them, but rather to enrichen their lives with experiences. i see they may be into manifestation and even spirituality. they try to work on their limiting beliefs because they don't want to be the person holding themselves back. they may look very positive and extroverted, but deep down, they are sensitive and introspective.

how will they love you?

with the knight of wands and the well reversed, i see them being the one to approach you. they will bring opportunities to you, push you out of your comfort zone and help you move closer towards your own dreams. they will be so enthusiastic around you. you absolutely won't be worrying about whether they like you or not because they will show it. if they like you and want to be around you, you will know. and if they don't, then they will also make that clear. they wear their heart on their sleeves. i see them trying to be a bit manly though, whether this is a man or a woman. they will try to act like a macho man which they will enjoy, but just trust that they are also heartfelt and have big feelings even when they wear this mask approaching you.

they will be patient with you, but only to an extent. like, they hate the feeling of waiting for forever. they are excited about what is to come so they will be uncomfortable if you make them feel stuck in place or if you are stuck in the past. they will show their love by helping you overcome your past, helping you close the old chapters of your life before heading onto the new one. i'm seeing that their energy will not be cold or stagnant, though sometimes i see you are the one who makes the relationship feel that way. and they will show their love by not giving up on you, they will bring you along to better places even if they have to drag you. they hate seeing you hung up on the past.

family life with your spouse

with the ace of cups and five of swords reversed, i definitely see you both overcoming troubles from the past after marriage. family life is a new beginning for you both. you or them or both could be very excited for children, for having a home together. it feels almost dreamy when you guys live together. it feels like you both will blossom and thrive as a family, so many new experiences and emotions. romance will also increase. i see you will also meet so many new people, like family members or new friends. you will be surrounded by good people, your spouse will make sure of that and to get rid of anyone who treats you how you were treat in the past.

any conflicts you guys come across, i see you guys resolving them and moving forward stronger. some may just be minor so it is easy to move past them, but even the bigger conflicts, you will both work on them. you guys won't run away at the first sign of trouble, you will stick together even when you hate it and eventually it will turn out good again. there is a lot of compromise and communication. it's not always going to be easy but i see time and time again, you guys will get through it. this isn't the type of marriage and family you want to walk away from, it's the type you want to fight for. so every time, you will always move forward and create positive changes for each other and your children.

© riizebabie444 — all rights reserved. please do not copy, steal, repost or translate my readings on any site. any act of which will be classed as plagiarism.

[delirious-donna]

Hiromi couldn’t help himself.

He knew it was unfair of him, but the urge to keep poking at you crept over him like a fiendish manifestation of the frustration he often experienced in his own caseload.

He shouldn’t take it out on you. What a wicked man it made him. Hardly ideal for a man who claimed to lead the march for justice and equality.

You’re not someone to take lightly, confident in your abilities and rightly so. This wasn’t a rodeo you hadn’t ridden like a seasoned pro for years now, he should know better, and yet… he pushes back at every opportunity.

“Don’t you think you should…”

His words tailed off at the warning flash of your eyes, narrowing crossly on his looming figure whilst your nostrils flared. If anyone was a bull ready to charge, it was you.

“Don’t you think you should mind your own business, Higuruma?” Your voice remained cool despite the fire snapping and crackling in your gaze.

He stopped just shy of letting out a groan of pleasure.

Fuck…

He loved it when you held your ground. You weren’t meek like the other paralegals and legal secretaries in the office. Hiromi couldn’t recall a single insistence where you had allowed anyone to speak down to you. You treated everyone how you wanted to be treated, with kindness and respect, but the fact you didn’t suffer fools gladly was signposted well.

It made him wonder if you would be like this in other, far more intimate circumstances.

A workplace crush was frowned upon, not that he particularly cared for such arbitrary rules. You were both adults and who you dated, fucked, fantasised about whilst sat at their desk well after clocking off time stroking their—well, that was no one’s concern but his or your own.

“You don’t want my opinion?” he asked with a wry grin, already knowing the answer was a firm and resounding no. He was certain it would be preceded by a hissed ‘fuck’ if you weren’t being carefully watched by half of the office.

“… no. If I wanted your opinion, or even needed your assistance in any capacity, I would ask. Don’t you have a meeting in ten minutes?”

Hiromi chuckled. “They cancelled.”

“So, that’s why you’re pestering me. You’re bored and in need of distraction.”

Your voice warmed as you spoke, comprehension dawning on you that this little charade might hold more meaning than you had previously assumed. That thought was certainly more alluring than thinking him to be a menace simply for the hell of it.

His shrug neither confirmed nor denied your accusation, but the warmth colouring his neck right above the collar of his slightly rumpled shirt spoke volumes, as did the idle forefinger that drew a spiral atop your desk.

“Back to your little office, Higuruma, I am busy.”

He complied without further incident, whilst you watched his handsome, if not tired, profile disappear behind his office door. You smiled, no longer bothered by the tedious work task flashing in front of you for attention.

You really should take that man in hand a little more firmly, personally, perhaps…

That was your thought ten minutes later as you closed his door behind you, the lock snicking into place as his eyebrows shot into the dark of his hairline.

You couldn’t see his cock harden beneath his desk but you knew it was, and you couldn’t wait to make him beg you for the release he craved.

Hiromi couldn’t help himself.

[deadghosy]

HAZBIN HOTEL X CAELUS! READER

prompt: you were found digging in their trash and they took you in

(I got covid😭 so me posting xreader will be kinda slow)

You were digging for some food ever since you fell from heaven because you kept fighting people over trash…I mean damn reader…

You fell with a blank look as you had a rotten banana in your mouth as you looked down to see pentagram city…so what did you do? You pulled out your fire sword and slash the ground to soften your fall which worked. You changed it to a bat for protection as you found a dumpster!

CHA-CHING✨ MORE TRASHHHH

You dig in the dumpster not hearing a person whistling. The person dropped the garbage bag shocked to see a….? Whatever you are digging in the dumpster. Your face was completely dirty as you lift it up to show you found a cool old watch.

Charlie didn’t know what to do. Are you homeless? Is what she thought as she takes you out the garbage as you blankly stare at her “•_•” “uhm sweetie are you okay?” “……” “not much of a talker huh…” you just stayed quiet as Charlie introduced herself and shook your hand bringing you to the hotel so you can have a place to stay.

I feel like you were a new angel and only stayed for like 1 month…(free trial ass shit…) and so when you didn’t act holy and proper. That’s why you mostly got kicked out

Vaggie will know you are an angel because of your angelic look and golden eyes as you just stand there minding your business. You tell her you fell because you fought over your treasure….your trash practically. So Vaggie tells you what happened to her and you hugged her making her feel safe about herself a bit.

You two have matching bracelets you made from an exercise Charlie did.

Okay I headcannon that Lucifer is already in the hotel living with his daughter. And he felt your presence and he would be like. “Fuck are you doing here”🤨 “I fought for my life.”

Vox one time put you on air with him because of your golden shining eyes….i think he was flirting with you as you ate some gift cookies he made for you…

Velvette tried to make you a model, but you kept wandering off somehow. Literally she got tired of you but never of your face as she at least posted you wearing some nice 2000 makeup

Carmilla had a gut feeling about you being an angel. She wanted to kill you but then you gave her a ring you found in a dumpster because you said she reminded you of your earth mother/parent. Yeah she wanted to adopt you

You help sir Pentious, or who you call penny for his project builds. You dig in dumpster’s, trash bins, and garbage dumps

Angel dust and you sometimes just be on your phones all the time which is obnoxious. But hey, I don’t make the rules. Being on your phone makes it seem like you don’t want to be talked to which is true.

Lucifer made you a duck as he notciced how lonely you are….(you don’t give a fuck, you only need trash as your friends) so Lucifer made you 20 ducks that are based on your favorite things or like idk just ducks

The egg boiz follow you around as you literally calling you the, “TRASH BOSS!” Not in a bad way more like in admiration as you give them stuff from the garbage.

Your golden eyes shining in the night scaring husk as he didn’t even see you in his hind sight. Like he is a cat, but he didn’t even see you?!

You and alastor’s both eat weird things, like he is a cannibal….and for you..either trash or just normal weird food combos

Alastor would definitely try to get you to eat cannibal meat, but to be honest you can tell the difference between human and regular meat. You always know.

Niffty is the kind of person who would give you a trash flower crown, kinda like how she made a crown for Alastor ✨🦆

I headcannon your angelic/demon form to be a raccoon 💀

You send dumbass memes in the hazbin hotel gc…

You are quite the feral person tbh, but who didn’t know when you literally fought people for your damn trash.

You definitely had bit Valentino once as Angel dust brought you to a club and you were digging in trash to find something cool. But Valentino found you adorable in the face and wanted to make you a sex worker. And what did you do when he tried to hurt Angel?

YOU BIT HIS FUCKIN HAND ALMOST OFF AS ANGEL WAS TRYING TO PULL YOU OFF😭

Yeah..you definitely had blood dripping from your mouth when Angel dragged you out of the club

[seonghrtz]

ME & THE DEVIL.

SYNOPS𝑖S,ㅤㅤsukuna falls in love with the purest angel.

両面宿儺ㅤ♡ ⠀ angel!reader⠀ . . .ㅤ fluff & angstㅤwarnings suggestive blood death occ sukuna　─　13k words.

The worst crime a creature of darkness could commit was to fall in love with a creature of light.

Sukuna Ryomen was aware of this, and yet he allowed himself to be loved by an angel, just as he allowed himself to love one.

But his disobedience cost him dearly, and his whole world fell to ruins. For the first time in his life, everything he had ever sworn was beautiful was reduced to cold, distant memories that occasionally disturbed him in the dead of the night.

The peaceful life he had once been promised, sworn to under the stars, had been taken from him in the cruelest way, just as the only person he had sworn his eternal love to had been taken from him, ripped from his arms, turned into nothing more than a sweet memory that could no longer be touched. It had been like taking away the oxygen he needed to stay alive.

And now he was trapped in chains, thrown deep into the cell of the maximum security prison in the dark lands he once called home, and now was nothing more than a place where he was imprisoned, without the slightest will to live, and with only revenge trapped in his thoughts and the deepest desires of his dark and broken heart ⸻ which he believed he no longer had, since it had been taken from him, just like the life of his beloved.

𝔊aia, The Society of Humans

Sukuna rolled all four of his eyes at once and smoothed his black hood over his pink hair. He hated going to Gaia, hated leaving his home in Umbra, the Society of Darkness. Although the presence of demons and creatures of darkness was permitted by law in Gaia, its inhabitants were not very fond of them ⸻ especially with their frightening appearance and deadly gaze ⸻ but unfortunately it was only in Gaia that he would find the best whisky of the Three Societies. So much work for a bottle of alcohol.

The demon held the leather pouch with two bottles he had bought and another with a slaughtered calf that he would have Uraume prepare for dinner. However, his plans fell apart when he realised that there was something wrong with his surroundings in the Lost Forest ⸻ the path that would lead him to Umbra. In one swift movement, Sukuna stopped and turned to see a white figure hiding behind a tree with a broad trunk. Out of patience, he left his leather pouch with the drinks and the calf on the ground and approached the tree. Ryomen leaned one of his arms against the trunk and waited for the figure to leave its hiding place ⸻ which didn't take long.

"Oh," the person ended up facing Sukuna's cloaked chest, startled by the demon's sudden presence.

"Oh?" Sukuna repeated the stranger's words, raising an eyebrow.

Looking down with eyes that conveyed nothing but boredom, he analysed the person before him. Her long, white gown seemed to glisten in the dim light filtering through the massive treetops of the Lost Forest. Something that hadn't gone unnoticed by Sukuna, aside from the unique, angelic beauty of the stranger before him, was her majestic wings.

Those wings could only belong to someone from Oriana, the Society of Light. And not just anyone, but an angel.

An angel…

This little encounter between them was wrong in itself, as it was against the laws of the Three Societies.

Though the Society of Light and the Society of Darkness lived in eternal feud, the only thing they had agreed upon for thousands of centuries was that no being from Oriana could have contact with a being from Umbra, and vice versa. Interaction between the two societies was strictly forbidden. So much so that the worst crime a creature of darkness could commit was to have a romantic relationship with a creature of light.

And that rule applied to Gaia as well.

Without a word, Sukuna turned his back on the angel and went to gather his things and leave for Umbra, he had already spent too much time in the lands of Gaia for his liking.

"You..." the angel began to speak, trying to get Sukuna's attention, but nothing seemed to stop him.

"Can you stop following me?" Sukuna turned around, burning with anger. "Or would you rather be a side dish with the calf at my dinner party?"

"You... you wouldn't do that, would you?" She looked at him in horror at the idea he was suggesting.

"You want to stay and find out?" A sinister smile formed on Sukuna's lips, making the angel tremble all over and take small steps backwards. "Just as I thought, how pathetic you are," he murmured the last part.

"I am not pathetic!" The angel said with conviction, but her posture still showed fear, as did her trembling voice.

"The very fact that you're an angel, on Gaia, far away from your brilliant, stupid society, following a demon through a forest, tells me exactly how pathetic you can be. Now leave me alone."

"What's your name?" She avoided the last topic, even more curious, but without moving.

"That's none of your business," Sukuna made his way to the portal that would take him back to Umbra, this time without an angel in his way.

All five times Sukuna had returned to Gaia with the solemn intention of buying at least two bottles of whisky, he had met the (pathetic) angel who had followed him through the Lost Forest. She kept asking him questions, to which he answered with absolute silence. But during the five times, she didn't seem to mind his silence because she knew he was at least listening to her ⸻ which seemed to be enough to make her happy.

But the sixth time Sukuna went to Gaia, she wasn't waiting for him in the forest.

The demon was surprised by the little angel's absence and shrugged his shoulders when he realized that she wouldn't appear on his path.

He briefly tried to convince himself that it was better this way, both for his short patience and for the innocent, pathetic angel who knew nothing of the world she lived in.

But something seemed wrong…

It seemed wrong to walk back to Umbra in silence, with only the sound of the forest itself ringing in his ears. Sukuna wouldn't admit it, but a part of him, deep down, missed the thousands of questions the angel had asked him, both about himself and where he came from. But he couldn't miss that singular thing.

It was best to stay away from her, so he wouldn't get into any unnecessary trouble. Although he liked getting into trouble and unnecessary fights, Sukuna preferred to avoid anything that involved Oriana and the Light Ones; it was easier to get into a fight in Umbra, where he knew the laws and the rules of the game. Not to mention that he knew that if he got involved in anything with Oriana and was found out, even if he hadn't done anything, the creatures of light would do everything they could to put him in prison for life.

Sukuna looked back once more and, realising that there was nothing there, not even a shining white figure, he simply stepped through the portal into the chaos that was the Society of Darkness.

"Where were you last time?" Sukuna asked when he met the angel again after the fiasco of the last time he was in Gaia.

"Oh, did you miss me?" The angel smiled openly at the demon's comment when they met on one of the paths in the Lost Forest.

"Answer my question." Sukuna said authoritatively.

"I was in Oriana, my mother asked me to come back because she felt I was spending too much time in Gaia," the angel smiled and walked after Sukuna as she always did, "You know, you never told me your name..." She commented, playing with the white fabric of her dress.

"Why should I tell you my name?" Sukuna asked.

"Because I've already told you mine!"

"My name is none of your business."

"I promise I won't bother you anymore if you tell me your name!"

"Don't make promises you don't intend to keep." Sukuna rolled all four eyes and turned to the angel.

"Please," she begged him.

"And stop begging, you look pathetic doing it."

Sukuna looked into the bright, innocent eyes of the angel before him. There was something there that made his heart skip a beat. The way she looked at him was so pure that a part of him wanted to corrupt her completely, but the other part wanted to drown in this purity that made him feel less like a monster for a few seconds ⸻ even though he was a demon by nature.

"Lord Sukuna." He said quickly, using his title.

"Lord?" The angel asked curiously, "Do they have titles in Umbra?"

"Do you think Umbra is the end of the world?"

"No, no! In Oriana we don't have much information about Umbra..." She explained quickly.

"So you want to go to Umbra?" A mischievous smile appeared on the demon's lips.

"I'd love to, actually!" she said, delighted at the idea of getting to know another place, especially the mysterious Umbra.

"You'd be killed the moment you set foot in there," Sukuna laughed at the angel's fearful reaction to his statement.

"But... but I... I've never done anything..."

"Understand something, Angel, Umbra and Oriana do not mix, it is forbidden by law, so I think you better stop what you are trying to do or planning to do, because in the blink of an eye you will be killed. Oriana is the safest place for your kind, and I suggest you get back there before it is too late for you to see the light again.”

"Lord Sukuna..." She swallowed dryly, "I know I'm not the best company you could have, but please... I just..." She took a deep breath, giving up on saying what she really wanted to say "I... I'm sorry for bothering you all this time, I..." The angel turned her back to Sukuna, ready to walk away and perhaps leave Gaia forever, but was stopped by a hand on her forearm, holding her tightly and preventing her from leaving.

"Never stop speaking your mind. Finish talking and I'll let you go."

"I... I just wanted a companion, someone to talk to, but I think I was looking for that in the wrong person."

Sukuna's hand slowly left the angel's forearm.

"Angel..." Sukuna said and turned to leave. "Meet me here, same time, tomorrow."

"Lord Sukuna?" The angel glanced at the demon who had his back to her, but received only silence from Sukuna as he made his way back to Umbra.

Sukuna took a deep breath for the tenth time, wondering why he had acted without thinking the day before. He waited for the angel while he thought about everything that had happened and why he thought it was a good idea to take her to a less crowded part of Gaia ⸻ or rather, a field away from people. The truth was, even he didn't know why he was acting the way he was.

That angel could only have bewitched him...

And if she hadn't bewitched him before, he was certainly bewitched the moment their eyes met.

For some reason, the angel looked neater than usual, even wearing hair ornaments that matched her white dress with gold details.

"Sorry for the delay, Lord Sukuna!" The angel smiled as she approached the stone he was sitting on while he waited.

Sukuna just stared at her and got up, taking a different route from the one he usually took.

"Where are we going?" She asked curiously, having been curious ever since she had been told to meet on the road to the Lost Forest, something that was certainly far from Sukuna's fetishes.

"I will take you to a deserted place to devour you," Sukuna said calmly.

"WHAT?!" The angel's eyes widened in shock at the demon's comment.

"Well, if you keep quiet, I might consider sparing your life, if I don't turn you into dinner first."

Silence fell between the demon and the angel as they walked, and all that could be heard was the sounds of the forest and their footsteps on the leaves, the broken branches on the ground, and the fertilized earth beneath their feet. Sukuna was surprised by the angel's silence, but didn't question her, while she herself was lost in her thoughts, trying to prove something true about him devouring her.

"We're here." Sukuna said, drawing the angel's attention and freeing her from the thought loop she was trapped in.

She looked around; it was an open, flowery field, and there was a cliff overlooking the sea, which seemed to connect with Gaia's sky on the horizon. Enchanted by such a beautiful view, the angel approached the cliff, feeling the icy, salty breeze against her body.

"If you stand too close to the cliff, you might fall." Sukuna said from behind the angel, frightening her.

"Oh, you're right!" She said, a little frightened at the thought of falling from that height.

"You have wings, do you know that?" Sukuna rolled his eyes, "You can fly if you fall."

"Oh, that's true, well, it would be true if I could fly, but I can't.”

"Haven't you learned how to fly?" Sukuna said in a provocative tone.

"Um, I just got hurt and the healer said that if I wanted to fly again, I'd have to spend some time recovering, without forcing it."

"That must suck for you..." Sukuna shrugged and sat down on the grass to bask in the sun.

"You have no idea, almost everything in Oriana is on top, so it's easier to fly there. That's why I spent so much time in Gaia, everything is on the ground here, I don't need to use my wings," the angel sat down next to Sukuna and looked up at the clear blue sky, "What's it like in Umbra?"

"Why are you so interested in Umbra?"

"Because... Well, because nobody in Oriana talks about Umbra, it's almost as if it's forbidden. I once asked a group of colleagues if they knew anything about it and they just stared at me and then scolded me for commenting on the place."

"There's nothing wrong with Umbra, Angel, it's just an ugly place that harbours evil people with terrible hearts, it's no place for creatures of light."

"But you're generalizing, aren't you? Not least because you are an exception, aren't you?"

"Exception? An exception to what?" Sukuna arched an eyebrow.

"Well, you're not evil, maybe you've said some evil things to me, but you've never done anything too bad."

"Gaia's laws are completely different from Umbra's. I just don't feel like being arrested again."

"Have you ever been arrested?" The angel asked him incredulously.

"Like ten times? Or more?" the demon shrugged, "It's quite common in Umbra. Why is that? Isn't there a prison in Oriana?"

"Well, we do have something called a detention center, where those who break Oriana's laws are taken, but it's rarely full."

"Ah, you really are privileged..."

"Lord Sukuna, you told me that Oriana and Umbra don't mix, but why?"

"You really don't know anything, do you? What did they teach in the schools in Oriana?"

"Nothing to do with Umbra, the only thing they say is that we can never go to Umbra or have contact with any dark beings," the angel murmured.

"And here we are, aren't we..."

"But what's so wrong that our contact is forbidden by law?" The angel asked curiously.

"It's a long story..." he said, uninterested in this particular conversation.

"Aren't you going to tell me?"

"Maybe another day..."

"So you mean we'll have more meetings like this?" She smiled excitedly at the thought of seeing Sukuna again.

"Yeah... maybe... if you behave like a good little angel, I can think about..."

The angel lay down beside Sukuna and looked up at the clear blue sky. It was beautiful, and as much as it resembled Oriana's sky, in some ways it was extremely different. But perhaps it was the presence of the person, or rather the demon, next to her that made everything she knew, or thought she knew, seem completely new.

"Your marks... the ones you have on your body, were you born with them?" she asked, breaking the silence between them.

"Uhum," Sukuna mumbled in reply.

"What's your favorite color?"

"Why the hell would I have a favorite color?"

"Now that you've said it... I don't know either. In Oriana there aren't many colours, it's always light tones and often the same shades of white and gold. When I came to Gaia, I was enchanted by the variety of colors..."

"You really do surprise yourself with very little..." Sukuna squinted at the angel, "How did you manage to come to Gaia?”

"I was tired of Oriana. It was always the same things to do, it was the same boring routine every day. Just playing the harp, sitting by the crystal lake, reading and talking about the same things... I begged my grandfather, who is a general, to let me go to Gaia, if only for a few hours.” The angel's eyes focused on the slowly changing shades of blue in the sky, from light blue to pinkish orange, as her mind wandered through her memories: "Did you know that there is no night in Oriana?"

"Why don't they have a night?" Sukuna raised an eyebrow. Oriana was the complete opposite of Umbra; while one was bathed in light, the other was bathed in darkness.

"When the sun goes down, the sky turns orange until the next day's sunrise.”

Time seemed to flow when she was in Sukuna's presence. He said nothing and answered her questions indifferently, maliciously, spitefully or sometimes not at all. But the angel was happy. She was happy that she didn't have to spend so much time bound by the pure customs of Oriana, that she could speak freely and ask her thousand questions without being silenced for merely expressing a genuine curiosity about the worlds beyond the sacred portals of the Society of Light.

"Lord Sukuna, thank you for showing me this place and listening to me..." the angel murmured as she turned her head sideways to look at the demon's profile.

"Tsk... it's not a big deal..." Sukuna just stood there with his four eyes closed, enjoying the breeze (and secretly his new companion).

Sukuna had never thought that meeting this angel would become part of his routine in Gaia. Even Uraume had noticed that his Lord's frequent forays into the Society of Humans were no longer just about the good bottles of whisky or the cheap meat. However, Uraume knew better than to question his Lord and put this fact to one side ⸻ at least Sukuna seemed less grumpy when he went to Gaia.

Although he denied it, especially to himself, it was a form of entertainment to be in the company of the innocent and curious Angel.

And, in a way, it made him feel a little better that he had broken one of the strictest rules in the Three Societies.

Looking around, the demon saw the young angel munching on a typical Gaia fruit as she accompanied him to yet another secret location far from any civilisation that he had suddenly decided to take her to. It was a great surprise to him that she simply followed him, without questioning or even suspecting that this might be the last time she would see the light of day. It was amazing how much trust she had in him and how naive she was about her own world, her own people. And even though Sukuna had no intention of hurting her, except with his unfiltered words that came out without thinking, he couldn't help but wonder what would happen to her if she accidentally bumped into another demon, or perhaps a perverse human from Gaia.

It was almost comical how concerned and protective he was when it came to the Angel. Even if he refused to accept such feelings, only justifying his actions with the idea that she wouldn't survive a second without him by her side.

And when she almost fell on her butt in the middle of the road, it was as if Sukuna had received a sign from the universe itself, confirming his theories.

‘She's not even safe from herself,' he thought as he watched her laugh at her own disaster. She was too precious for any of the worlds.

"Are we there yet?" She turned his head in Sukuna's direction.

"Uhum," he mumbled.

And before she could complain that he had given her the same answer a long time ago, Sukuna pointed his head in front of her, making her look expectantly where he was looking.

The great waterfall, with its crystal-clear water reflecting the sun's rays divinely, had enchanted her.

It was beautiful. Just as beautiful as the open field of flowers by the sea that Sukuna had taken her to the other day. But these trees with their green leaves, the flowers, the water falling in a steady, calm rhythm, it was all so beautiful, so wonderful in her eyes.

"How did you know such a beautiful place existed?" Smiling, the angel approached the edge of the pond and placed her hand in the water, surprised to find it warm and not as cold as she had imagined.

"I found that out when I was hunting." Sukuna replied, sitting down on a rock near the edge and getting his feet wet.

"We... Can we swim here?" she asked excitedly.

"Um, go ahead." Sukuna said nonchalantly, after all they were far from Gaia's civilization and it was very unusual for there to be any people or creatures there.

Without further ado, the angel began to remove her long satin skirt and the pearl belt, then the top of her dress and the necklace she was wearing.

"What do you think you're doing?" Sukuna caught the Angel's eye just as she was about to remove her underwear. He had kept quiet, just watching her undress, but he hadn't imagined that she would be naked in front of him.

"Taking my clothes off? To swim?" Her speech came out more as a question because she was confused by the situation.

"You know you don't have to be naked, right?"

"But in Oriana it's very common to bathe in the lakes without clothes..."

"Are you telling me that you get naked? In public?" Sukuna arched an eyebrow in disbelief at the creature of light before him.

"And why wouldn't we? It's actually quite common over there."

"Yes, but I'd advise you not to do it here in Gaia, or anywhere else but Oriana..."

"Hm? Ah, well then..." Giving up on the idea of taking off her underwear, the angel simply removed her hair ornaments and walked over the wet stones into the lake "Aren't you going in too? The water's fine."

Sukuna stared at the angel for a few minutes, watching her play with the water, before deciding to take off his clothes and join her in the water. However, he was content to stand at the edge, leaning against a rock.

The angel approached him with a slight smile on her face, leaning her back against the stone and standing next to Sukuna.

"So in Oriana you strip naked in public?" Sukuna asked with a mischievous smile and was answered with a murmur and a positive nod from the angel, "Hm, I'd pay to see a show like that..."

"I wish I could take you to Oriana," she sighed, "but apparently there's some kind of spell on the sacred gates that prevents anything but a creature of light from passing through."

"Why do you think I wanted to go to your fancy little town?"

"Because you always take me to beautiful and enchanting places, I'd like to thank you for that."

"I don't need your thanks, let alone to see your gold-painted paradise." Sukuna said dismissively.

The angel shrugged at Sukuna's reply. She was getting used to the demon's blunt and direct manner.

Looking at the water, she noticed that it was so clear that she could see the bottom. Interested in a small pebble that caught her eye, the angel dived to the bottom without saying anything and returned to the surface with the stone in her hand. She had been so busy admiring the red stone that she hadn't noticed Sukuna looking in her direction.

"What do you have in your hand?" the demon asked in a tone that did not hide his curiosity.

"It's a red stone," she said smiling, "On my first trip to Gaia, I came across a merchant who sold jewelry, he had several necklaces with the same stone, I think it's called a ruby... But whatever it is called, it reminds me of your eyes"

"So you like stones?" Sukuna asked, ignoring the angel's last comment about his eyes and especially the fact that his heart was beating a little faster.

"Yes!" she replied with a smile.

"Follow me!" he ordered as he climbed out of the water and picked up his clothes from a rock, but didn't put them back on.

Confused by the sudden change of plans, and a little sad to be leaving the warm water, the angel picked up her clothes and began to follow the demon, who walked around the pond, without asking any questions. When they reached the edge of the waterfall, Sukuna went behind the water and disappeared from the angel's sight.

Uncertain about what was happening, but trusting the demon, she closed her eyes and went behind the waterfall as well. When she opened her eyes again, she was surprised to see a path behind the water. But what made her eyes sparkle were the coloured stones set into the wall, glowing and illuminating the whole place.

"Are you just going to stand there?" Sukuna asked as he followed the path in front of him.

Without hesitation, the angel quickened her pace and followed Sukuna. It didn't take them long to reach their destination, a small hot spring.

"The water is better here than outside." Sukuna said as he stepped into the water.

The angel left her things on the ground and stepped into the water, relaxing next to the demon.

"Just when I think you can't surprise me anymore, you come along and prove me wrong, Lord Sukuna."

"Or maybe it was your golden palace that wasn't so interesting."

"Well, I think you'd be surprised by Oriada's angelic beauty."

"More surprised than to see you swimming naked in a pond?" A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as his predatory eyes stared intently at the angel.

"Lord Sukuna!" A blush spread across the young angel's face as she turned her head to the side, trying to avoid the demon's gaze.

A small laugh escaped Sukuna's lips as he was amused by the angel's reaction. Maybe spending time with her wasn't the worst thing in the world, as he always tried to convince himself it was. She had a special way of making Sukuna want her by his side ⸻ even if it was forbidden. Sukuna squinted at the angel, noticing the doubt in her expression, showing her indecision about whether to say what she was about to say.

"If you thank me again, I'll never take you anywhere again." Sukuna lied.

"Ah! How... How did you know what I was going to say?" She looked at him, startled.

"You're as predictable as an open book."

"Oh?! But I know how to disguise it well."

"I doubt it." Sukuna smiled sideways at the direction of the conversation.

"I'm a very good liar!" She swam over and stopped in front of Sukuna.

"Oh yeah?!" Sukuna brought his face close to the angel's.

"Yes!" She said with conviction.

"Hm." He murmured as he pulled the angel by the waist and brought her closer to him. "Then tell me a lie."

"Ah... well... I won't lie right now, because I don't want to," she said confidently, but Sukuna couldn't help but laugh when he heard her answer.

She really knew how to amuse him.

Sukuna had always been indifferent when it came to Gaia. He obviously preferred Umbra, for various reasons, but lately Gaia hadn't been such a hateful place for him, even if he still believed that humans were the weakest and most influential creatures he'd ever seen. But as long as he was on Gaia, with some special company and away from civilisation, Sukuna thought it was a good pastime ⸻ although he wouldn't admit it, being stubborn as he was.

Little did Sukuna know that teaching Angel how to hunt would be so much fun.

From a very young age, the demon had learned to use various tools and strategies to catch small prey. And it was almost a talent, as if he had been born to be a predator.

But the Angel he knew had no such ferocious instincts, and even less skill with weapons. While Sukuna was a predator, the angel was nothing more than a small, defenseless prey.

The fact that she was so clumsy amused the demon, who could hardly contain his laughter when he saw that she couldn't keep the bow and arrow together.

With a sideways smile, Sukuna positioned himself behind the angel and helped her. He put her arms in the right position and told her to aim at the tree in front of them. Taking a deep breath and holding it, the Angel released the arrow, sending it flying into the hard gravel of the tree.

With a big, bright smile, the Angel turned to Sukuna, proud of her achievement ⸻ even though he had helped her.

"Let's raise the level," Sukuna smiled sideways and pulled the angel through the Lost Forest until they found a majestic deer near a small lake. "Now do what you did with the tree," he whispered in the angel's ear, so as not to frighten his prey.

The angel positioned herself, holding the bow and arrow just right, and took aim at the deer. But when she looked at the animal, she couldn't let go of the arrow. Hitting the tree was one thing, but now an animal seemed too difficult. She lowered the bow and arrow and looked at Sukuna with a depressed expression.

"I... I can't..."

Sukuna just watched the angel, knowing deep down that she couldn't hurt what she saw suffering in front of her. She was too pure for such brutality.

The demon simply took the bow and arrow from her hands and positioned the weapon perfectly before hitting the small deer in one of its vital points. The angel closed her eyes as the animal grunted in pain.

"Let's go." He walked around the lake to pick up the animal and headed for the waterfall that he had taken her before.

Arriving at the place, Sukuna wasted no time in making a fire and gathering the things he had brought from Umbra to cook for the angel. He prepared everything, taking out of his leather pouch a few other ingredients he'd taken from the kitchen at home ⸻ hoping Uraume wouldn't miss them too soon. The demon wasn't the best in the kitchen, but he'd seen Uraume make this kind of broth for so long that he hoped it would work.

"Do you need help, Lord Sukuna?" The angel asked as she approached the demon who was preparing the food.

"No," he replied, "just sit there," pointing his head in the direction of a rock near the water.

Without questioning him, the angel obeyed his command and sat down on the rock, watching as Sukuna cut the fresh meat from the deer with his back to her. The demon had broad, strong shoulders and there were black lines that adorned his body perfectly. The Angel felt her own cheeks begin to burn with every second she looked more closely at every detail of Sukuna's body ⸻ the one that most resembled a sculpture.

Suddenly ashamed of where her thoughts were taking her ⸻ thoughts she hadn't imagined she would have ⸻, she stood up and began to walk around the pond, observing the different kinds of flowers that were around. Sukuna could always point to the fact that she was surprised by the smallest things, but where she came from they didn't have all these vibrant, captivating colors. It was truly a fantastic experience for her.

The angel picked some flowers and sat down on the stone she had been sitting on before. Sukuna, meanwhile, continued to concentrate on preparing the food.

The demon was so focused on his goal that he wouldn't settle for anything less than perfection (and he certainly wasn't doing it all for the angel, he kept telling himself). However, all his concentration on the broth he was preparing was taken away when he felt something resting on his head. Looking up, he saw the angel standing behind him with a huge smile on her face.

"What's that?" He asked, feeling her adjust the object that adorned his head.

"A flower crown."

"A what?" he asked, incredulous at the answer.

"A flower crown." The angel repeated her answer with a slight chuckle.

But who would believe it, or even imagine the scene? A demon with a crown of flowers on his head. It didn't seem like words that would fit into a sentence in a harmonious and positive way. And maybe it didn't help that the demon in question was none other than Sukuna Ryomen.

Sukuna just rolled his eyes and poured some of the ready-made broth for the angel sitting next to him. She gladly took the bowl and didn't take long to taste it.

The demon looked in the angel's direction with a hopeful expression, feeling a slight fear grow in his chest to know what she thought of the food.

"Is there anything you don't know how to make? This is delicious!"

"Of course it would be delicious, I made it myself," he said smugly, but deep down a sense of relief was inevitable.

"Could you teach me to cook? I bet I'd be better at cooking than hunting."

"Who knows, one day..." Sukuna said vaguely.

Thinking about such a moment in the future seemed quite unlikely in reality, but nothing stopped him from imagining such a situation ⸻ not even for a moment.

Gaia's sun shone brightly, its rays reflecting off the crystal clear waters of the calm sea before the curious gaze of a creature of light.

Sukuna, following the path to a small abandoned hut, noticed that someone was missing from his side and turned to see the angel watching the landscape.

"Hey, Angel!" Sukuna caught her eye "If you just stand there, we can't get into the sea!"

"We can get into the sea?!" She asked excitedly, running across the sand to catch up with the demon.

"And why can't we?"

"Well, we don't have a sea in Oriana, but I read some books that talked about scary sea creatures."

"These creatures tend to stay at the bottom of the ocean, there's not much for them on the coast."

"Are you sure about that?"

"Do I look like I'd lie?" Sukuna turned to face the angel, then rolled his eyes when he saw the expression on her face at his question. "Okay, no need to answer, I get it." Sukuna made his way to the wooden hut that stood on the other side of the beach.

The hut had been abandoned for years, but it was still in good shape and usable. It looked more like a single person's house on the beach, as everything in it was for one person. Sukuna used to go there when he went fishing, but that was a long time ago ⸻ it was easier to hunt or buy something at the Gaia market than spend time waiting for a fish to show up.

The angel left the leather bag she was carrying on a wooden chair outside the house and watched the scene unfold before her. The more time she spent with Sukuna, the more she realised that she knew very little about the world. There were many things she had never seen, and things she had never imagined could exist. And she never thought that she would be eternally grateful to that stubborn, arrogant demon for showing her all that, for making her feel things she never thought she could feel.

"I thought you were excited about going to the sea."

"Well, I guess I'm a little scared." A short laugh escaped Angel's lips.

"Angel..." Sukuna approached the creature of light, holding her face to make her look at him, "I'm here, if anything happens I'll save you."

"What if we go in together...?" The Angel bit her bottom lip.

"OK, then get ready," Sukuna let go of the angel's face as he went into the hut to drop his and the angel's things and take off his clothes, leaving only his underwear.

When he came out of the hut, he found the angel already in her underwear, curiously watching the scenery, as if she still had doubts about going out to sea even if she wanted to. Sneaking up on the angel, Sukuna took her in his arms as if she were a bride and walked out to sea while she struggled against his big, strong chest, begging him to let her go.

"Lord Sukuna, please let me go!" The angel pleaded.

"Since you ask!" Sukuna released her into the sea.

"I can't believe you did that!" the Angel said as soon as she came back to the surface.

"You're the one who asked me to let you go!" He raised both upper arms, as if to declare himself innocent of such an accusation, and crossed both forearms as he smiled sideways, suppressing the urge to laugh at the whole situation.

"That was very evil– AH!" The angel screamed in fright as she felt something brush past her leg and leapt into Sukuna's lap, who caught her without the slightest effort.

"What happened?" Despite a smile on his lips, Sukuna's tone could not hide his concern.

"Something went through my leg..."

"It must have been just a tumbleweed," the demon's explanation reassured the Angel, who slowly got off from his lap.

"It's not that bad..." the Angel smiled slightly, "but I still think I'd prefer to be a little closer to the coast."

"So you want to go back?"

"Uh, just until I get used to it."

With the waves breaking on her knee, the Angel let her intrusive thoughts take over and she kicked at the water, wetting Sukuna in the process. The angel looked at the demon beside her, shocked by what had happened, and Sukuna just looked at her, expressionless, which made her shudder a little with fear.

"Was that a request for war?"

"No, Lord Sukuna, I didn't mean it, I swear–"

"You have five seconds."

"Five seconds?" She looked at him doubtfully.

"Five... four..."

Without thinking too much, the angel just ran as fast as she could.Without even finishing counting, Sukuna took off after the angel. He kept his speed down, though, because he knew it wouldn't be any fun if he caught her first. But as he grew tired of his own game, the demon soon caught up with her and threw her over his shoulder.

"Lord Sukuna, please forgive me, I swear I didn't mean to"

"I'm not entirely convinced of that..."

"Please, I'll do anything!"

"Anything?" Sukuna stopped walking, interested in the angel's proposal.

"Yes! Anything!" The angel pleaded.

"I don't want anything right now." Sukuna lifted her from his shoulders and carried her in his arms, "But I hope you will remember this promise."

Time passed slowly as they enjoyed each other's company. As the sun began to set, the angel returned to the hut, dripping wet as she held several small shells in her hands. She left the shells on the table and Sukuna soon handed her a bowl of stew he had prepared.With the bowl in her hand, she left the hut and took a seat on the steps, enjoying the food and watching the sun set. It wasn't long before Sukuna joined her.

They both watched the horizon as they enjoyed their meal. There was no greater tranquility than that moment. But a strong wind blew across the shore, sending a shiver down the Angel's spine.

"I think it's time to go in." Sukuna stood up with the two bowls in his hand and walked into the hut, followed by the angel.

"Um, Lord Sukuna... it's starting to rain..." The angel said as she looked out the window and hugged her own shivering body.

"You are shivering." Sukuna approached the angel and rested his big, strong chest on her wings.

The angel felt a shock run through her body and a sudden warmth that slowly warmed her icy body and stopped the shivering.

"Your body is warm."

"I know," Sukuna whispered into the angel's ear.Without hesitation, he grabbed her waist, turned her towards him and then picked her up. He calmly walked over to a small three-seater sofa and sat down with her still on his lap.

"Lord Sukuna..." the demon's name came weakly from her lips as she rested her hands on his strong shoulder, drowning in the depth of his crimson eyes.

"Hm?" He murmured, looking at the face he adored so much.

"You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen." One of her hands reached for Sukuna's face, running her fingers gently over the marks on his face.

"I disagree. There is nothing in the Three Societies that compares to your beauty."

Sukuna's lips reached for the Angel's and captured her in a soft kiss ⸻ something that was certainly controversial given his personality. The kiss didn't last long, but it was enough to make Sukuna thirsty for more. When they parted, the Angel tried to catch her breath, but it wasn't long before Sukuna was kissing her again, this time with a certain need, an unquenchable desire to have her all to himself.

The demon sat her down on his lap, using two of his hands to hold her there while the others traveled the length of her body, decorating every little curve.

"Lord..." The angel let out a faint moan as she felt Sukuna's hand squeeze her breast.

"You're so perfect..." Ryomen murmured as he approached the angel's neck and kissed the length of it.

"Sukuna... you... you're..." the angel let out a louder moan as she felt something hard against her intimacy as Sukuna kissed her collarbone and with one of his skilful hands undid the knot of the bra she was wearing and wasted no time in sucking on one of her exposed breasts.

"How do you feel?" A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as he watched the angel's satisfied face.

"It's... good," she moaned softly.

"You seem to be enjoying it, would you like some more?" One of the hands that had been on the angel's waist moved down to her ass and she gasped as she felt a strong squeeze.

"Uhum"

"Use your words, angel," he murmured in her ear.

"Yes... please... please..."

"I'll make you feel so fucking good..."

"Do you still want to go to Umbra?"

Sukuna's question had been the first thing he had said when he had met the angel again on the way to the Lost Forest.

"Yes! I'd like to go there." The angel smiled, her cheeks flushed.

The angel thought that after what had happened between her and the demon the last time they met, it would be difficult to look him in the eye again, and perhaps she wasn't entirely wrong. Sukuna had touched her in places she had never imagined being touched so viciously. But she couldn't deny the indescribable pleasure she had felt that night.

"Okay, then, let's go to Umbra," Ryomen shrugged, as if it were no big deal.

"Wait, really?" She looked at him hopefully, hoping this wasn't just a joke.

"Yes, but you can't go to Umbra like that." Sukuna looked the angel up and down, observing her natural angelic appearance.

"What do you mean?" she tilted her head in doubt.

"If you go through the portal, you'll soon be recognised. In Umbra, things aren't as clear as your clothes."

"So what do we do?"

"Put these clothes on." Sukuna handed the angel a burgundy dress with black details.

"Shall I put it on here?" she asked, holding it to her chest.

"It's not like you've never taken your clothes off in front of me," Sukuna smiled sideways, teasing the angel.

"Lord Sukuna!" the angel said embarrassed.

"Lord Sukuna? That's not what you called me last night."

"I'll change behind that tree." She said, ignoring both Sukuna's comment and his cheeks burning with embarrassment, and went to change.

"We need to fix your wings too..." Sukuna said as soon as the angel returned ready. "Can you hide them?"

"If I have a cloak, maybe I can."

"Too risky, I think we have to stick to my main idea."

"Your main idea?" The angel looked curiously at the demon who was fiddling with his leather bag.

"Let's paint it black." He took two tins of paint from the bag.

"You really came prepared..." The angel looked at him in amazement.

Sukuna opened one of the tins of paint and positioned the Angel so that she was facing away from him. The demon wasted no time and quickly stuck his hands into the can and began to run his paint-smeared hands over the Angel's wing feathers, but she quickly pulled away, laughing at Sukuna.

"That tickles!" She turned to Sukuna with a big, bright smile as she laughed.

Sukuna just watched the Angel and felt the urge to take that sound and put it in a bottle so he could get drunk on it every night.

"I think... I think we'd better hurry so we don't waste any time." Sukuna looked away from the angel and took a deep breath, controlling the urge to take her for herself at this moment, in this place.

The angel agreed, holding back a laugh as Ryomen ran his inky hands down the length of her wings.

"We need to do something about your face," the demon said after he had finished painting the angel's wing, closing the tins of paint and taking a cloth to wipe his hands.

"My face?"

"Put this on." He handed her a lipstick and she put it on without question.

"Can we go now?" She asked excitedly.

"I think we're ready."

"Lord Sukuna, may I ask you something?" The angel's hands found the fabric of her skirt and she began to play with it, trying to distract herself.

"Hm?" He turned to the angel, waiting for her to speak.

"How do we get to Umbra?"

"Through the portal," he replied bluntly.

"But how do I get through the portal?"

"Like everyone else," Sukuna held out his hand to the angel, who took it immediately. "Unlike Oriana, there is no barrier that prevents creatures other than creatures of darkness from passing through the portal. Anyone can pass through, but most aren't curious about Umbra because it's an ugly place with a bad reputation."

"So if I'd wanted to go to Umbra all along, I could have?"

"Yes, but you'd soon be barred because you look like a creature of light, so you had to change your clothes and your wings." Sukuna replied, "And remember, under no circumstances are you to say you're from Oriana."

"All right." She said with a smile, feeling more relieved and excited for everything that was to come.

𝖀mbra, The Society Of Darkness

The Angel had never imagined that she would actually pass through the portal and visit Umbra. This moment seemed more like one of her dreams than reality, and she couldn't help but be amazed by the whole place around her ⸻ no matter how hard she tried to hide her curiosity.

Umbra was completely different from all the descriptions she had read in the books about it in Oriana and Gaia. It wasn't a pretty place, and it was certainly dark and gloomy, but it had a unique charm that enchanted her.

The ground beneath her feet was rocky and barren, dry and devoid of vegetation. The surrounding trees were basically just a twisted trunk and branches, creating a frightening and sinister appearance. The sky was dark, as Sukuna had told her, and she had no idea whether it was morning, afternoon or night.

"We're in the Dark Forest, soon we'll reach my land." Sukuna said, still holding the angel's hand and leading them through the place.

"Your land?"

"Uhum," he murmured in confirmation, "my land is not so far from the forest, but it is far from civilization."

"Why do you live so far from civilization?"

“Because I have no patience.”

And just as Sukuna said, it wasn't long before they arrived at Sukuna's home.

"Do you live in a shrine?" The angel asked as she looked at the huge Torii in front of her and a huge shrine in the background, but like everything else she had seen in the Dark Forest, it had a frightening appearance and an evil aura.

"Something like that," Sukuna shrugged as he entered his own territory with the angel. Even he couldn't believe he was taking a creature of light into his own home, something he had promised himself he would never do, in life or in death.

"Lord Sukuna." A servant bowed as he saw his master.

"Where is Uraume?" Sukuna asked the servant.

"In the kitchen, making tea for your brother."

"Really?" Sukuna rolled his eyes, ignored the servant and pulled the angel into the room.

"You have a brother?"

"Twin," Sukuna replied indifferently and led the angel into the room where he took his meals.

The Angel simply observed the interior of the sanctuary, which was much larger than it appeared. She had the feeling of being in a palace, but one that was much darker. There were many shades of black, red, grey and even gold. There weren't many paintings on the walls (at least not the kind she was looking for), but the few that were there depicted wars or monstrous animals.

"Jin..." Sukuna's boring tone made the angel turn her attention to the demon instead of her surroundings.

"Ryomen– Oh, you have a visitor?" The man called Jin turned to the angel with a friendly smile.

Jin, as Sukuna had called the man earlier, was the complete opposite of Sukuna. He was tall, but not as tall as Ryomen, and he didn't have four arms or any visible body markings. Perhaps the only similarity was the pink hair. Other than that, nothing was the same. He certainly didn't match the descriptions of demons she'd read in some of Gaia's books, and even less did he resemble some of the ones she'd met at the Human Society fair ⸻ although she didn't consider those to be any kind of parameter for characterizing the citizens of Umbra.

Sukuna quickly introduced the angel, hiding her true identity as a creature of light and calling her by her name. It was the first time Sukuna had called her by her name and not "angel", well, apart from the intimate evening they had spent on the beach when he had spared no expense in using her name.

"I'm sorry Ryomen, I didn't know you had a guest today. I just wanted to introduce you to your nephew, Itadori Yuji." Jin said with a smile on his face as he held his son in his arms.

The angel approached the baby with more curiosity than the boy's own uncle and smiled as she noticed the huge rosy cheeks and a few pink strands on his head.

"Would you like to hold him?" Jin asked the angel with a gentle smile.

"May I?" She turned to Sukuna and waited for his confirmation to hold the newborn in her arms. "He's so cute."

"His face looks like a knee." Sukuna said as he approached the angel and looked at his nephew.

"Don't say that!" The angel scolded Sukuna, who just shrugged with a mischievous smile, "He's the cutest little thing I've ever seen." She smiled at Jin and handed the baby back to him.

"Isn't he a bit small and big-headed?" Sukuna asked.

"He has the proportions of a healthy baby, and that's what's important, Ryomen," Jin said politely, "Now that I've introduced you, I'll be going home. And it was a pleasure to meet you, Miss."

"My pleasure!" The angel smiled "I hope Yuji grows up healthy."

"Thank you," Jin smiled before leaving the room.

"Well, I think I'll ask Uraume to prepare something for us to eat and then I can take you to the garden."

"Do you have a garden?" She asked in amazement, never imagining Sukuna to be the type of person to have a garden or anything like that at home.

"Don't get too excited, it's not as nice as the places I've shown you in Gaia," Sukuna said, referring to the places in Gaia that contained extravagant and unique flora.

The Angel simply sat down at the table and waited for Sukuna to return so that she could continue her questioning about Umbra and her own home. The Angel had an endless curiosity, she loved to discover new things and understand what she didn't know. Though the people of Oriana found her questions irritating and unnecessary, telling her that perhaps it was better to live in ignorance than to dwell on reality, Sukuna embraced her curiosity and answered what she knew, always answering with the truth and never trying to soften his answers. The demon never criticized her questions, or even said they were annoying or unnecessary ⸻ although at first he was a little irritated by the number of questions she asked. But he let her ask anyway, he loved the sound of her voice and found her curiosity admirable.

“You seem amused by the decorations." Sukuna sat down on the edge of the table.

"This isn't exactly how I imagined your home."

"No?"

"No, I didn't think it would have much decoration, really."

"The shrine and the land belonged to my ancestors, I just inherited everything. And making changes is a lot of work and a headache, so I decided to leave it as it was."

"Your ancestors?" The Angel asked, curious about Sukuna's past generations.

"The Great Demon King." Sukuna replied, surprising the angel and making her eyes widen.

But before she could ask him if he was joking, or even ask him about his family tree, some servants entered the hall, set the table and served the banquet. On the table were various foods that the Angel had never seen before in her life.

"If you don't like it, don't eat it," Sukuna said before starting to eat.

The angel looked at the food with fascination, but soon gave way to her desire and curiosity to learn more about Umbra's cuisine and what made it different from Oriana's and Gaia's.

"This is very good!" She smiled as she tasted one of the dishes and Sukuna just watched her, holding back a satisfied smile. He watched as she tried all the dishes, commenting on what she thought of them as if she were a judge in an eating contest.

After they were satisfied with their meal, Sukuna took her to his garden. The garden was a gloomy place, there were some trees with twisted trunks like those in the Dark Forest, there were some flowers that were shades of dark blue and purple, there were some that had black petals, there were some bushes with dried leaves and some that seemed to be rotting ⸻ something that Sukuna said was characteristic of the species itself.

The Angel approached a tree that had some flowers that seemed to be hanging from it, their petals in shades of purple and blue.

"It's a fuchsia." Sukuna said.

"It's beautiful... If I had a garden, I'd want it."

"And what's stopping you from having a garden?"

"I have no home..." The angel turned to Sukuna with a smile, but her attention was soon drawn to some sort of small house behind him. "What's that?"

"My Cerberus' house."

"Cerberus?"

"My dog. Would you like to see him?"

"Do you have a dog?" The angel asked excitedly, although she didn't have any dogs in Oriana, there were plenty of them in Gaia and she loved playing with them.

Without saying a word, Sukuna approached the little house and opened the door, revealing a huge, monstrous dog with three heads and a snake tail. The angel watched the beast with fear and took small steps backwards.

"It won't attack you." Sukuna said.

"I think I'd still prefer to keep a safe distance..."

"Come on." Ryomen held out a hand to the angel, who reluctantly took it. He took her in his arms and approached Cerberus, who was staring at them with his three heads. He didn't look like he was about to attack her, the little angel in her master's arms was no threat. Or perhaps the dog was aware of his master's feelings.

"He's kind of cute..." The angel murmured, reaching out a trembling hand to the middle head, which approached and sniffed it, soon followed by the right and left heads mimicking the movements, getting used to her scent. The middle head lowered itself, allowing her to stroke it. "And the fur is very soft..."

Without the angel noticing, Sukuna gradually let go of her and let her play with the infernal dog. He moved away a little, folding his arms across his chest. As he watched her, Sukuna began to notice things he hadn't noticed since the night before they ended up together. Though he had noticed her change in personality ⸻ something that happened when he was only in the Angel's presence ⸻ he noticed his own heart growing restless, pounding so hard against his chest that it seemed it might jump out of his body and into the Angel's delicate hands at any moment. She had been an extreme change in his life and in his own feelings. But what surprised him most about the whole situation was that he didn't even mind the change, in a way it pleased him enough. And Sukuna wouldn't complain if he could see a scene as domestic as the one that was unfolding in front of him.

If he could, he would take the Angel for himself and only for himself.

"I think he... or rather they liked me!" She said excitedly as she approached Sukuna with a smile, followed by the dog.

"Would you like to meet the civilisation of Umbra?"

"What? Are you serious?"

"If you behave, we can go."

"I'll behave, I promise!"

"I'll have the horse prepared." Sukuna said with a sideways smile, "Stay here with Cerberus until I get back. And don't be disappointed if you find that Umbra is nothing but a morbid place."

"I'm sure I won't be disappointed, because sometimes it's not the place that counts, but the company."

"Tsk... I won't be long," Sukuna turned to look for a servant with a smile still on his face.

He was fucked…

𝔊aia, The Society of Humans

Sukuna was almost one hundred percent sure that this wasn't the best idea.

It was a fact that the demon liked to keep things between him and the angel private ⸻ less public and more private. But a few weeks before this day, Sukuna had found it almost impossible to say no to the creature of light.

Not that he hadn't tried to say no. He had, many times. But his voice didn't seem to come out as he uttered that simple little word, watching the angel's hopeful face.

It was all a great dilemma for him.

And that's why the two of them, cloaked and hooded, walked through the bustling shops of Gaia, observing the stalls.

They hadn't bought anything, they were just enjoying each other's company as they walked hand in hand. They just commented to each other about the products that caught their eye at the stalls. It wasn't as if they didn't have the money to buy anything. Sukuna had enough money (and plenty of it) to buy all the stalls in the place, but he needed the Angel to really want something there for him to put his hand on his money. But the Angel didn't seem that interested.

However, what seemed to be a quiet (and romantic) afternoon went up in smoke when the Angel heard her name called out in the crowd.

She looked forward and saw her grandfather in his armour, along with other Oriana guards. They stood out from the crowd with their golden armour, which seemed to radiate light from within.

The angel squeezed Sukuna's hand, sensing her desperation, and took a few steps back.

"Angel...?" Sukuna looked at the creature of light doubtfully, sensing the awe coming from it.

"We have to get out of here!" The Angel said frantically as she ran to pull Sukuna between the tents.

The angel pulled Sukuna into the Lost Forest, but the guards and her grandfather continued to pursue them.

"What's going on?" Sukuna asked in a serious tone as he dodged an arrow.

"My grandfather is chasing me..."

"Why?”

"I argued with my grandfather. The last time I was in Oriana, we had an argument and I said something like the people of Umbra deserved our respect and that it wasn't fair to judge them mercilessly based on myths and false accusations. My grandfather didn't like his granddaughter defending those he had always tried to destroy. I just didn't know he was going to come after me– AH!!". 

The angel fell to the ground as she felt something cross her bruised wing.

Sukuna looked back angrily, searching for the archer who had shot his beloved, only to find a dozen creatures of light pointing an arrow at him. The demon just laughed mockingly at the whole situation, he couldn't spend all his time running, he had to fight too.

"Angel..." he said, catching the eye of the creature of light lying on the ground behind him, "remember you promised me you'd do whatever I wanted?"

"Sukuna–"

"Run!" Sukuna said, interrupting the angel, "Run without looking back. I'll take care of them." He knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate on the fight if he knew she was in danger.

"But..."

"I didn't think you were the type to break your promises."

"Will you find me?" The Angel asked, worried that she would never see the Demon again.

"Always."

After hearing Sukuna's answer, the angel got up, feeling a pain in her wing, and ran deeper into the forest.

Sukuna fought fiercely against the guards, who, despite being outnumbered, were no match for the demon. However, after knocking another guard to the other side of the forest, a shrill scream echoed through the place, alerting Sukuna and making his heart clench in his chest as he recognised the voice.

Running between the trees, Sukuna reached the cliff where he had taken the angel on their first encounter. But it was no longer a beautiful place, not as it had been when he was there with her, not when he knew that the scene before him would haunt him forever.

At the edge of the cliff, two of Oriana's guards held the angel tightly, and beside them lay one of her wings. Sukuna's jaw clenched at the sight of the torn wing; not even a demon would do such a thing to his own kind.

"Surrender, demon, and we'll set her free," the angel's grandfather said.

"RYOMEN, DON'T DO THIS!" The angel screamed through her tears as she tried to free herself from the guards' grip.

With each passing second, the tightness in Sukuna's chest grew as he struggled to decide what to do. He could fight all those guards (who were certainly no match for his fury), or he could surrender, accept the punishment and save the life of the only being capable of touching his heart of stone.

Not even Sukuna could believe that he, the most feared demon, would think of surrendering. Just to save the life of a creature of the light.

"Let her go and I will gladly surrender." Sukuna looked from the angel to her grandfather.

"RYO, PLEASE–" her whimper came out weak and garbled.

"Promise me she'll get out of here safely."

"Of course she'll be safe, she's my granddaughter." The angel's grandfather straightened his already upright posture, trying to convey an air of superiority that made Sukuna roll his four eyes, "All right, let's take this demon to jail."

"NO!" The angel shouted, "YOU CAN'T ARREST HIM! SUKUNA HAS DONE NOTHING"

But as the angel tried to free herself from the guards again, her body was thrown backwards, causing her to lose her balance and fall off the cliff.

Sukuna's four eyes widened in shock at the sight, and her body quickly ran to the edge of the cliff to search for the angel's body. Without one of her wings, she wouldn't have been able to fly and save herself. But when he looked down, all he saw was the angel's body being engulfed by the seawater, taking her to an unknown place and out of his reach.

In his moment of vulnerability, Sukuna was stabbed in the back and gradually his vision began to blur until it became a black screen.

𝔘mbra Maximum Security Prison

Jin watched his surroundings as one of the prison guards led the way. Never in his life had he imagined that he would be walking through Umbra's maximum security prison. Of course, he knew about his twin brother's possible imprisonment, but it had never occurred to him that he would be incarcerated in a prison that housed those who defied the laws of the Three Societies, and especially those concerning Oriana.

The guard motioned for Jin to sit in the chair facing a cell, and he simply nodded as he looked around.

Everything was so dark and damp and didn't seem to be hygienic at all. Jin took a deep breath and looked ahead, seeing his brother in the middle of the cell, bound by numerous chains that were supposed to hold him down. However, Jin soon realised that those chains weren't capable of holding his brother, they were there because Sukuna didn't want to leave, he had already accepted being in this unhealthy place.

"Are you just going to stand there and stare at me?" Sukuna's voice was hoarse. Jin would have been scared if he didn't know Sukuna.

"I was just waiting for an explanation from you."

"What?" Sukuna looked at his brother, "Do you think it's time for bedtime stories?"

"Well, if that's the only way you can explain what you're doing in this prison..."

"I have nothing to explain."

"Ryomen," Jin sighed, "you're being held in a maximum security prison, I think you owe me an explanation for that."

There was silence in the room, causing Jin to take a deep breath and wonder how his brother could be so stubborn.

"You know what kind of person is imprisoned here. Don't tell me you were pestering Oriana's government in your spare time?"

"I wasn't pestering anyone, I was just living my life."

"And how did you end up here if you were just living your life?" Jin asked, confused.

"I was living my life with an angel..." the name of the angel left his lips with a tone of melancholy mixed with the anger he felt at the whole event that had cost the life of the only person that mattered to him.

"She was an angel?" Jin's surprise only increased when he recognised the name of the person who had been with him the last time they had met. "Having a relationship with a creature of light is the worst crime a creature of darkness can commit. And you were never one to sympathize with anything or anyone related to Oriana."

"She was different from those stupid angels... and very stubborn." Sukuna sighed.

"Ryomen..." Jin called to his brother, finally understanding the whole situation that had led to his current predicament. "I thought you were involved in a murder or an attack on Oriana's government, but... Ryomen, you've fallen in love with her."

Sukuna felt a pain in his chest, as if his heart was about to be ripped out of his own body.

In love.

He was hopelessly in love with the Angel and would never be able to say such a thing to her.

"It doesn't matter anymore..." Sukuna tried to appear indifferent.

"And why not?"

"She's dead." The words Sukuna had been so afraid to say came tearing out of his throat. He had avoided saying them, hoping it would hurt less, but it didn't, it hurt just as much.

"Ryomen..." Jin murmured his brother's name. He didn't know what Sukuna was going through, let alone what was going through his mind, but Jin could imagine it. He couldn't bear it either if he lost his wife and son. "You shouldn't give up. From what little I know of the Angel, I know she would want you to carry on."

"You don't understand, Jin." Sukuna clenched his fists, "She was the purest being in the Three Societies, and yet they had the nerve to kill her. They ripped off one of her wings as if she was nothing and then killed her in the most cowardly way."

"I know that losing someone important is painful and may be a pain that never heals, but you have to move on, be strong for yourself and for them. And cherish all the moments, all the memories you shared. She can't be here with you physically, but I know her love will always be with you.”

Before either Sukuna or Jin could say anything, a guard appeared to escort Jim out of the prison. Sadly, Jin said goodbye to his brother, who remained silent, staring at a fixed point on the floor.

To honor her memory…

What the Angel wanted most of all was for the Three Societies not to be divided by laws, and for them to treat each other with respect. And if that was what she wanted, Sukuna would do anything to fulfill one of her noblest dreams, even if it meant an inevitable war.

As the barren earth of Umbra began to tremble, Sukuna found a sense of satisfaction growing in his chest.

After escaping from the maximum security prison and freeing all those held there, Sukuna had assembled an unstoppable army hungry for vengeance.

The angel was right. The people of Umbra deserved the respect of the others, and if they were incapable of giving it freely, then Sukuna would have to enforce it in an unconventional way: by starting a war after centuries of "peace".

Ryomen's thoughts turned back to the Angel. He wondered if she would be proud of him for leading the creatures to receive what they should have received years ago. Perhaps she wouldn't be so happy about the means Sukuna had chosen, but she would certainly be proud if it brought positive results.

Sukuna would turn the Three Societies into hell itself for the Angel, and that's exactly what he was going to do.

In the midst of the chaos, it wasn't difficult to invade Gaia, especially as the humans were no match for the creatures of darkness. And when Sukuna reached Oriana's portal, which prevented the dark creatures from passing through, he smiled mischievously.

There was nothing Sukuna couldn't do, and no portal would stop him from avenging the Angel's unjust death.

With his four hands clenched into a powerful fist, Sukuna punched the portal until it shattered into tiny, insignificant pieces. A sigh escaped his lips, it had been easier than he had thought.

𝕺riana, The Society of Light

As he stepped through the portal, the demon immediately noticed the golden sky and the great buildings hovering above him ⸻ just as the Angel had described them to him long ago.

There was certainly something angelic about Oriana, but he knew that the vast majority of the creatures of Light were as rotten as the trunks of the Dark Forest.

Almost at the centre of the entire Society of Light civilisation, Sukuna noticed a large building that resembled a temple, made of white marble and decorated with gold and gems that reflected the light.

If the Angel's grandfather was anywhere, he had to be there.

As some of the creatures of darkness entered Oriana and fought with the guards of light, Sukuna was busy trying to figure out how to get to the top while dodging the attacks coming his way. After climbing some sort of golden tree, Sukuna arrived at the temple, causing the whole place to shake.

"Demon." The angel's grandfather appeared on the other side of the temple, holding his bow with an upright posture that conveyed superiority, something frightening, but not to Ryomen. "What do you think you're doing?"

"A war?" Ryomen shrugged.

"And why are you starting a war after centuries of peace?"

"Peace?" A dark laugh left Sukuna's lips, "You creatures of the light treat my people with contempt, imposing laws that only benefit you and branding all creatures of the dark as villains. We have stood by and tolerated you for many years."

"And why now? Why are you revealing yourselves now?"

"Because I didn't care before... until you took the one good thing from me."

"If you hadn't got involved with my granddaughter, she'd still be here!"

"Oh really..." Sukuna rolled his eyes and attacked, hitting the Angel's grandfather square in the face.

Ryomen felt his anger take over as he viciously attacked the creature of light. There was nothing left to stop him, for the only thing that had any influence over him was no longer at his side.

"She..." the creature of light choked on his own blood, "My granddaughter... still lives..."

Sukuna felt a hand close around the angel's grandfather's neck.

"She's... she's in the... Sacred Garden..."

"And where is that?" he asked harshly.

"Behind... the temple..."

"If that's a lie, know that I'll cut you seven feet to the ground myself." The demon struck the creature of light one last time, knocking it unconscious, and made his way back to the temple.

The Sacred Garden was a place beyond Sukuna's imagination. There was a huge pond of crystal clear, translucent water surrounded by a garden of gold and white flowers and some fruit trees. Although it was a beautiful sight, the angel hadn't lied when she said that everything in Oriana followed the same colors.

In the midst of the flowers, and facing a defoliated golden trunk, was a glass coffin in which the angel lay serenely.

Ryomen felt his heart clench in his chest as he approached the glass coffin. One of his hands rested on the glass, incredulous and afraid that this was his own mind playing tricks on him.

He had spent days believing that his beloved, sweet angel had died, blaming himself and angry at himself for being her undoing. But there she was. Lying serenely, just as he remembered her.

Then Sukuna opened the glass lid of the coffin and a hand reached for the angel's icy face.

"Forgive me..." the words came from his lips like a breeze and he slowly approached her face to kiss her goodbye before returning to the war.

But as Ryomen reluctantly pulled away from the angel, she slowly opened her eyes, startling the demon.

"Ryo?" She asked confusedly, trying to tune into her memories.

Sukuna whispered her name and took her in his arms, nuzzling her against his strong arm. Oh, how he had missed feeling her in his arms.

"What happened?" she asked, confused.

"It doesn't matter anymore..." He replied, running a hand through the angel's hair. His hands moved down to her face, gently caressing her cheek before kissing her.

𝕾omewhere in Gaia, The Society of Humans

With a small porcelain watering can, the angel smiled as she watered her fuchsias, which were growing every day. She looked at the blooming flower in front of her and remembered the day she had fallen in love with it. Surely it was a memory that would live forever in her heart.

She walked through the small garden and into the house, where she saw her husband sharpening one of his knives while drinking tea.

"Jin sent a letter." With a smile on her face, she approached the demon and sat on his lap.

"He always sends letters."

"It's Yuuji's birthday, he's turning five." She smiled excitedly.

"That brat only has birthdays and never grows up," Sukuna huffed, dropping the objects in his hand to hug his beloved's body, one of his hands running up her back, stopping on the angel scar where one of her wings should have been.

"I know you like Yuuji deep inside." The Angel approached Ryomen's face and kissed him.

"Perhaps, but there are things I like better." A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as he approached the angel's neck. He planted a kiss on a particular spot of her neck, sending shivers down her spine.

Five years ago, the Angel broke one of the most sacred laws of the Three Societies, the one that prevented contact between a creature of Light and a creature of Darkness. And five years ago, Sukuna Ryomen led an army to avenge her (presumed) death, ready to fulfill her wish for unity between the Three Societies. Five years ago, the Three Societies signed a peace treaty that did not prevent contact between them, but encouraged cultural exchange between the societies.

But all that was over, as was the law that forbade love between a creature of light and a creature of darkness. And now the angel could live out her dream, enjoying a peaceful life with her beloved. And Sukuna, well, he had found the peace he had dreamed of. He had no more worries, not when his whole world was safe in his four arms.

© seonghrtz, 2024. all rights reserved, please do not copy / steal / translate / modify any of my works !

[catmask]

if it's not too intrusive, would you be comfortable talking about your experiences with OCD and maybe what made you seek a diagnosis?

idm it might help other people. i mean disclaimer not to use this as a diagnostic tool but if this sounds like u and u got a doc to talk to its worth bringing up

i think an important place to start and why i didnt think i had ocd is i am 1) autistic 2) a csa victim. this is pertinent because all of the things that actually lead me to get diagnosed with ocd i just kept dismissing as parts of those two other things. thinking 'surely this is all thats up there cant be anything else wrong with me' (<- thoughts of a clown)

the trouble with this is that coping skills id found for parts of both autism and csa trauma weren't working with things i later found out were related to ocd. so like, for example. frequently having intrusive thoughts about csa/sex trauma, i was told that if im experiencing a flashback the best thing i can do is try to ground myself and comfort myself. and yeah this is true, it would work if a flashback is all it was. but what it DIDNT account for is the guilt/dirty feeling id get after having them and the obsessive need to be 'clean' after.

and this trickled into hundreds of aspects of my life. 'cleaness' has always been such a vague unattainable concept unmedicated for ocd. if some things touch other things theyd become 'unclean'. if a person i felt uncomfortable around touched me or something it became 'unclean'. there were 'good' and 'bad' thoughts to have. i was constantly existing as if my presence was being monitored 24/7.

i could not fucking relax because every action i took, regardless of whether or not i was in private, i was constantly thinkin 'am i doing something wrong? am i hurting someone by doing this? am i breaking any rules?' and the 'bad thing' i was doing was like. i missed my boyfriend while he was at work. or i was going over former scenarios in which i was socially awkward in my head and wondering if i should be dead for doing that.

part of why i dismissed this as autism ofc too is yknow. being autistic i often missed social queues as a kid and was pretty brutally punished for it (physically by my parents, emotionally and socially by peers) so i was like yeah its Normal and Realsitic id have super intense fear about 'am i secretly doing something bad and dont realzie it because no one will fucking tell me until ive already done it and its too late and then i deserve all the punishment i get' but where my loved ones stepped in and were like Hey thats Not really normal. is where it waslike. other autistic people going 'brother i dont do that'

so yeah. it was like. kind of rule of elimination? the problems that wrrent getting solved by coping skills for the Other problems i Knew i had, i isolated those leftover things and my doctor was like 'this sounds like you have ocd. do you do this too' and listed out like 60 other things i didnt consider symptoms i just considered 'funny quirks' i had, like crying so hard id throw up if i couldnt get a blanket to lie perfectly flat during a picnic when i was 8 or thinking i was going to hell and my stuffed animals could feel pain so i would apologize to them iver and over while crying when they fell off the bed

you know. 'quirks'

[spiderg0th]

Established or mutual pining with Hobie Brown 🥺 maybe he's teasing the reader who is also a spider person (maybe include a kiss fake out or a chin tilt, something cutesy that gets the reader flustered). Maybe they're working together to capture an anomaly, and the reader is playfully annoyed?

(Hope that made sense!🥺)

can i kiss you?

hobie brown x spider person! reader

desc you visit his world for the first time.

wc 925

warning contains small spoilers from atsv (though it takes place before the events of the movie) and a mention of an injury.

Squinting as your eyes adjusted to the flashing array of colors from the portal, you removed the hand that shielded your face as an entire new world came into view. Taking a moment to take in your surroundings, you stood in awe at the vast landscape before you: large buildings featuring colorful billboards dominated the landscape. Everything flickered and changed shape every couple of seconds—it was unlike anything you had ever seen before. That was saying something because despite your short time in the Spider Society, none of the other worlds you had visited came anywhere close to this.

“Impressed?” Hobie questioned smugly, and even though you couldn’t see his facial expression due to his mask covering it, you knew that he was probably smirking.

“You were right, it’s certainly something.” You responded, pressing a few buttons on your watch, letting headquarters know that you both had safely traveled to Earth-138. An anomaly of Kingpin from another dimension had shown up in Hobie’s, so naturally, Miguel paired you together to handle it. Not only did you work well together, but Miguel trusted you to make sure that Hobie would get the job in a timely manner.

“I know exactly where it is. Just grab on so we don’t have to waste anymore time.” He spoke before bending over slightly so his lanky frame was closer to the ground.

“You’re joking right?” You asked incredulously, attempting to hide the uneasiness from your voice. If you were being completely honest with yourself, being piggybacked around by your crush sounded more than pleasant, but you didn’t want to give him any indication of your feelings. Besides, wouldn’t “fraternizing” like this be breaking some sort of Spider Society rules? Relationships between two spider people from different dimensions didn’t exactly sound like something Miguel would be in favor of. Then again, you rarely agreed with his policies anyway.

“What are you waiting for?” He asked again, turning to look at you over his shoulder. “You scared or something?”

“What? No?!” You said agitatedly before reluctantly wrapping your arms around his shoulders.

“Alright, hang on.” You knew from spending so much time with him that Hobie’s style of swinging around was more erratic than most, but you weren’t expecting it to be this wild. It was taking every amount of restraint within you to not let a scream rip from your throat. It was bad enough that you were sure he could feel your rapid heartbeat.

“Hold on, hold on.” He stopped on the top of a nearby building and you set yourself back on the ground.

“Are we here already? The watch says he’s much farther from here.” You state, looking around at the bustling streets below.

“No. You’re almost strangling me with your arms. We’ll get there soon.” Not even giving you a moment to protest, he places your left arm around his shoulder and his right around your waist. Securing a web on another skyscraper, you were off. Although this position was far more comfortable, it was also more embarrassing. Even though you were thankful he couldn’t see your expression beneath your mask, you still felt the need to hide your face in his neck. When you eventually reached the location where Kingpin was, you couldn’t deny the disappointment you felt when his arm slipped away and he set you on the ground.

Setting yourself down next to him on the ledge, you let out a sigh of relief because Kingpin was finally caught. He would have to settle for being tied together with webbing for now, as Miguel and Jessica weren’t there to physically take him back to the Spider Society Headquarters. He put up one heck of a fight, but it wasn’t something neither of you couldn’t handle. That didn’t mean you escaped the battle unscathed though. You caught Hobie examining your features when you slipped your mask off your face. If you weren’t so tired you would actually be embarrassed at the attention.

“Wait, look at me.” He said quietly, tucking a finger under your chin so he could look at your face more closely. He was close enough that you could feel his breath fanning your cheek.

“What’s wrong? Is there something on my face?”

“No.” He didn’t have a hint of sarcasm in his voice, which was kind of alarming to you. “It’s just a cut… gonna look sick once it’s healed.” You felt disappointed again, he was just looking at an injury on your face, nothing special. Assuming that he was done, you attempted to move your head back forward but his voice stopped you.

“Can I kiss you?” That’s not what you were expecting at all. Not thinking much, you immediately nodded your head and you could’ve sworn that you saw him smile before he leaned in. Unfortunately for you both, your watches decided to go off when your lips were only about a few centimeters away from each other.

“We’re here.” Hobie rolled his eyes as you stood to your feet. “Send the location of Fisk and meet us there.” As usual, Miguel had terrible timing. Before you could utter a word to Hobie, he swung to a building below and turned back to face you.

“You coming down here or do you need me to come back up there and grab you again?” He shouted jokingly.

“Shut up!”

While the day didn’t end up going exactly how you wanted it to, you were happy because one thing was certain: Hobie liked you back, and that was all that mattered.

[muscleloverz69]

A Raw Deal

To a normal person one of the fae might appear human. In fact it is nearly impossible to tell the two apart. The only difference is the fae are always extremely hot. One of the most important rules of dealing with the fae is never make a deal. Unfortunately, Brian had no idea Nick was anything but a young vendor at the music festival. 

All the food looked so good to Brian and he was so hungry, too bad he realized he was flat broke once he reached the front of the line. He looked up from his empty wallet at Nick to apologize and completely froze. Brian had always been completely straight but even he could admit Nick was one of the most attractive men he had ever seen with completely chiseled features, perfect lean muscles that complemented his narrow waist and thick upper thighs spread out in his seat. Nick smirked “Hey dude, you good?” 

“Oh yeah sorry I’m flat broke my bad I’ll step out of line.”

Brian was so flustered he completely missed the predatory gleam in Nick’s eyes. “Bro don’t even worry about it, I’ll make you a deal help me out in the back for a couple hours and lunch is on me.”

“Wow really, thanks!”

“Of course! The only rule is you can’t eat until we’re done or it’ll mess up my inventory count.”

Brian was so hungry but he knew he could struggle through a couple hours for a free lunch, so he nodded and followed Nick into the tent behind the counter.

The moment Brian entered the tent he felt his stomach cramp up, the most delicious smells of pies, cookies, and sandwiches were coming at him from every angle.

“So, I really just need you to stay here for the next two hours and make sure nobody sneaks back here and eats anything.”

Brian could only shake his head in agreement and watch as Nick walked away admiring his full ass move as he did. He rubbed his eyes trying to snap himself out of it. Brian had never so much as looked at a man in his entire life but maybe the hunger and partying from the past couple days was getting to him.

Not to mention Brian was a little sex-starved. It wasn’t that he was unattractive. Some would definitely think he was cute but it was always in a twinky nerd way. He looked nothing like Nick who was already occupying more space in his mind than another man should.

The first hour wasn’t easy, but Brian just tried to ignore the food around him and relax. He didn’t notice Nick peek through the entrance. Nick was starting to wonder if Brian would make it the full time and decided he needed to turn up the challenge. Nick walked back into the tent holding a large pizza. “Hey, this came a little early its for after you’re done working but it might be a little cold by then.”

Nick shrugged and walked back out. Brian sweated it out for a few minutes before finally stuffing his face with the pizza. It only took a few bites before Brian could tell something was wrong. First he felt a burning sensation on his arm, then in big letters NICK was written in black on his arm. He found himself frozen unable to move at all.

Brian stood there unable to move for the next few hours until it got late. Then Nick walked in with a wicked smile across his face. “Hello Brian, so it looks like you couldn’t wait to eat. Unfortunately, that means you are now my servant.”

Nick snapped his fingers and Brian found myself able to speak but my feet were still planted to the ground.

“WHAT. I don’t understand I’m sorry I couldn’t help myself.”

“Brian, it’s quite alright. These things happen you’ll come home with me and the details of your contract will be provided shortly.”

Nick walked forward to Brian wrapping his muscular arms around his waist. Nick brushed under Brians chin forcing them to make eye contact. Nick leaned in their lips brushing against each other. “We are going to have fun together.”

Brian woke up in a large bed sore and confused. As he looked around his eyes landed on a man. He was an attractive guy, large boulder shoulders and beefy pecs that shadowed over him.

“You’re up,” the man walked over to him.

“My name is Jock how do you feel?”

Brian shook his head confused, “your name is Jock.”

“I don’t think it was always Jock but that’s what master said it is now.”

It was then Brian glanced down at his arm to the letters NICK and remembered what happened. Jock went on to explain that Nick was a fae and had tricked the both of them into becoming his slaves. They were now magically forced to do anything Nick asked. 

“Really anything master wants you’ll do, become, or believe,” Jock sat down on the bed. “I didn’t always look like this but this is what master wanted for when he has fun with me”

Brian was in disbelief at what a quick turn his life had taken. “So what can I do? I’m not gay and I don’t want to be owned.”

Jock shook his head “There really isn’t anything you can do, my only advice, Master offers everyone the same deal…take it.”

It was then the door swung open. Nick walked in to the bedroom shirtless, his tight muscles reminding Brian of some predatory cat. “Jock thank you for watching our new guest, you can go.”

Like that Jock was gone. Now it was just Brain and Nick.

“So Brian I trust Jock filled you in. Now its time to make you more suited for my home. First I value fitness so grow your muscles for me.” 

Brian hardly had a chance to be confused before he felt his stomach ache and looked down to see a set of cobbled defined abs. He suddenly felt much wider as his shoulders and back spread. His pecs began to balloon and his biceps thickened.

Nick smiled as he closed the distance between them. “Now you look tasty.” 

Nick kissed Brian pushing him backward on the bed. Brian opened his mouth to say something but Nick cut him off “You will participate and try to please me.”

Brian quickly got the message and allowed his lips to part for Nick’s tongue. Brian tossed his own shirt on the floor. Internally he was screaming, I’m not gay, but he couldn’t help but try to make Nick happy.

Nick groped Brian’s new arms before cupping his face. “Now time for a few more things. First Brian doesn’t quite suite you anymore, I think from now on you’ll be Thad and you can forget it was ever anything else.”

Thad was confused. Wait wasn’t his name always Thad. Was that right?” 

Nick interupted Thad’s thinking, ”The only thing is that name isn’t known for being intellegent so let’s dumb you down and make you a little more bro-y”

Thad felt a relaxing fog descend on him, he didn’t mind it. “Bruh that kinda feels sick.”

“Now just one last thing. I offer everyone this deal, now it’s your turn. You will live hear forever but if you agree to become gay I will make you happy to be here. Then you’ll have as much fun with our encounters as me. I could just make these changes myself, but honestly it’s no difference to me how you feel and the choice is more fun.”

Thad felt confused. A feeling he would probably have to get used to with his new intellect, but he needed to choose. Thad decided that if this was his new life he might as well enjoy it.

“Ok dude, do it.”

Thad felt it almost instantly. He was in the best place ever, and standing in front of him was the sexiest man he had ever seen. Thad almost lept forward, ripping Nicks pants off and began latching onto his cock. Nick gripped Thad’s new styled hair as his head bobbed up and down. Then Nick came. Nick chuckled Thad didn’t know it but the entire spell only would have lasted 24 hours then he could have gone home free, but now that he willingly drank Nick’s cum the spell was sealed forever.

Meanwhile Thad was in total bliss he was going to love being here with Nick and Jock.

[musings-of-a-rose]

A New Life - Part 1

Pairing: General Marcus Acacius x ofc Cornelia

Word Count: 4700+

Rating: Mature - 18+ ONLY!

Warnings: Just like ao3, “creator chooses not to use warnings.” If you click Keep Reading, that means you agree that you’re the age to handle mature themes. Also by clicking Keep Reading, you understand warnings may not be complete in order to avoid spoilers for the story. 

Summary: After her husband's quick death, Cornelia finds herself back in her childhood home. But when her father passes, her cruel brother Cato becomes Lord of the city. She feels trapped, hopeless, destined for nothing as her brother tortures her day in and out. Until one day, a certain renowned General comes to claim her city in the name of Rome. When her brother hastily offers her up in surrender to the stoic General, Cornelia happily complies. Anything to get away from her brother. But will the General accept her? What fate lies in store for her in the hands of General who has never lost a battle? And will she be able to survive Rome itself?

Notes: sigh. look, I had one scene idea and it became this. If you've ever read anything by me, you know this happens. And just look at Acacius. How could I not? Shoutout to @mermaidxatxheart for tolerating my existence in general for this fic.

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**Reader is not described

Main Masterlist

General Marcus Acacius Masterlist

“We can’t thank you enough, miss.”

I wave my hand. “No need to thank me. I’m just doing what I can.”

I pull the palla (scarf) over my head as I wind my way back up the city streets, heading towards the home I grew up in. The largest home in the entire province that used to belong to my father, the noble in charge of this entire area. But ever since he died, my brother has taken his place and well, let’s just say he is far from my favorite person. Which is why I’m hiding as I sneak back inside, my brother having forbidden my leaving the grounds ever since I was forced to return after my husband’s death. 

I wake the next morning to the sound of many footsteps running outside and down the halls. I quickly pull on my tunic and head out of the door, turning to head towards the main chambers where my brother would undoubtedly be. Sure enough, as I approached, I heard him raise his voice. It sounded like he was trying to muster troops? He barks out a few more commands and the door flies open, catching me off guard.

“Sister! Come here!” My brother, Cato, demands. I enter the room, casting my eyes downward and away from him for a moment before looking at him. 

“Brother, what is happening?”

His eyes scan me from head to foot, his lip pulling up in a snear. “The Army has arrived.”

I cock my head. “Who’s army?”

He sighs, exasperated,. “The Roman army, Cornelia. The one led by Marcus Acacius?”

My eyes widen. “The general who has never been beat?”

“That’s the one.”

The people running around make sense now. We’re preparing for a fight. “What will we do?”

“We will fight!”

I scoff. “You cannot hope to win.”

His mean eyes snap to mine. “You don’t think I can?”

“I…I just mean, General Acacius has a reputation. Our numbers are small, we can’t-”

He waves his hand at me, cutting me off. “Yes, yes. I know. We’re going to give it our best. But I also have a backup.” 

“Oh?”

The snear comes on full display. “Yes. Actually a way to solve 2 problems with one.”

“Two problems?”

“I will surrender and give the General you as a victory gift.”

My jaw drops, the air whooshing from my lungs. “M..me?”

“Yes, you. I know you’re already 30, but you look much younger. He won’t know. Besides, he doesn’t need to marry you.”

“You mean to give me to a man with no intention-”

He reaches out and grips my face with one hand. “Dear sister. I would whore you out to every noble, the emperors themselves, if it meant I got to keep my lifestyle.” He shoves me away. “Now go make yourself presentable. As much faith as I’d like to have in our troops, I rather think it will come down to you.”

And that was that. He turns, effectively cutting me off from any retort. I head back to my room, calling for one of my servants to help me prepare. As she washes me, I think on all that has transpired. Am I finally to be free of the hell that has been my life for the last several years? I know I should be afraid, terrified of the renowned General Acacius, but I’m not. Anything is better than here.

My brother has me sit in a chair off to the side of his own, the sound of swords clinking growing closer and closer. The heavy doors creak open and soldiers pour inside, nearly covering the space in a handful of steps. My brother holds up his white flag, a symbol of surrender and luckily, they stop, one of them yelling to get the General. Only a handful of moments pass before a man strides into the hall, broad shoulders barely contained in beautiful leather armor, the head of Medusa proudly displayed on its front. He is covered in blood and dirt and sweat, a sword still in his hand as he confidently strides up to my brother, who instantly bows. 

“General Acacius. I humbly surrender to your forces.”

“So many people died for you to be sitting here on your chair. You could have stopped the bloodshed before it started and you did not.”

“I had to give it my best shot. Honor was at stake. You can understand that, yes?”

General Acacius considers this for a moment. “And let me guess- honor is what you think will keep me from slicing you in half with my blade?”

The smile on Cato’s face falters slightly. “Well, yes.” The blade shifts in the General’s hand and my brother puts his hands up. “That and-” he reaches over and grabs my arm, his fingers digging into my skin as he throws me at the General. I fall to the floor on my knees with the unexpected movement, my palms stinging with the impact. “-my sister! Take her, marry her, use her, whatever. She is yours.”

The General leans forward, extending his hand towards me. I look at it, the blood and dirt mixed together in some kind of horrible art on his palm, and I take it, allowing him to help me up. Once I’m standing, my eyes find his and I’m shocked to see concern. 

“Are you alright, miss?” He asks, his eyes scanning my face.

I don’t break the gaze as I whisper. “Please take me with you. I will be faithful to you however you need me. Free me from this prison.”

He cocks his head ever so slightly, searching for something in me. Apparently he finds whatever he’s looking for as he looks over my shoulder back at Cato. “I will take her. But I should kill you here for the way you treat your people but especially for the way you treat your sister. Your own blood.”

“My people will recover and I’m sure you or your men will be thankful to have such a beauty after-” the General takes a step forward, his blade coming up. All I hear is slicing, a horrible gurgling, sputtering sound as a body thuds to the floor. I don’t move, not right away, using my breath to steady myself. I start to turn when the General grips my arms, preventing me from moving. 

“You do not need to see this.”

“I think I do.”

“Miss-”

I drop my voice so only he can hear me. “My brother has put me through hell for years. I have no love for him. Let me have this closure. Please.”

He hesitates for a moment before nodding, dropping his hands from my arms. I take a breath and turn, my eyes immediately finding the crimson pool on the floor, the thin gash across Cato’s throat bright and angry against his skin. His are vacant, every trace of the evil life he lived, gone. I nod once and turn back to the General, who is still watching me. His soldiers file from the room, a loud silence falling over us.

“So…do I..do I follow you or?”

He holds his hand up. “I do not plan on holding you to that deal or whatever your brother tried to do.” He starts to turn but I gently grip his arm. He looks down at my hand briefly before looking at me. 

“You saved me from this torture. I will be faithful and loyal to you.”

He puts his large hand over mine, taking it from his arm and holding it. “I have no doubt of that, miss. But you owe me nothing. Go live your life.”

“General Acacius, may I speak plainly?”

He nods. “Please.”

“I understand what you are trying to do. But please think: my brother has controlled this province ever since my father passed several years ago. He has placed more taxes and fees on these people than anyone before. And he just led half of them to slaughter with your arrival when he planned on surrendering. They are not happy with my house. They may like me but I don’t think that fondness will suffice when they are burying their husbands and sons for no reason.”

He thinks for several moments. “Perhaps you are right. I cannot in good conscience leave you here to die. I can escort you to our next province but know that it isn’t a place for a woman. War and battle are hard and bloody. I can protect you from my men but I cannot promise to protect you from those we fight against.”

“I understand. Wherever you need me, there I’ll be.”

“You are free to leave whenever you wish.” He turns, heading towards the doors.

“But what if I wish to stay? With you?” I follow behind him and slam into his chest when he abruptly stops and turns around. He looks down at me and my heartbeat races. Now I’m closer, I can see past the grime, see his greying hairs, the scar that runs down the side of his face, his eyes, dark and battle-hardened but also caring, a tinge of regret. They also darken with a look I’ve seen in many men’s faces as they chase the skirts of women. But then he blinks and it’s gone.

“We shall see.”

General Acacius accompanies me to my chambers and allows me to pack a few things. It’s lighter than I would normally travel with, considerably, but it’s not needed. And I can always get new things along the way. A few pallas (head scarfs) and tunics, some health and hygiene products and I’m ready, the General giving me a nod of approval at my small bag that I’d packed. His soldiers ransack the estate, including my room, taking anything of value to either sell or melt and turn into weapons. General Acacius ensured I had everything I wanted before he allowed it, a gesture I wasn’t expecting. As we head towards the front gates of my previous estate, he turns to me, speaking low so only I would hear.

“Stay close to me. Speak to no one. Pull that palla over your hair and stay quiet. Understood?”

I nod quickly as I do what he says, making sure it covers my hair. “Yes, sir.”

“Do you have a favorite horse?”

I blink. “Yes. In the stables.”

He allows me to lead us to the stables and I quickly locate my black barb horse, Caius. He is nervous, snuffing and chittering in his stable, but the moment he sees me, he calms. 

“Hi, Caius. Are you ready to go on an adventure?” He presses his forehead to mine, a gesture we’ve done since he was a foal. I can feel the General’s eyes on me, watching as I lead Caius from the stables and ready him for travel. It only takes a few minutes and I’m grateful for learning how to do it rather than relying solely on stable hands. He has me lead Caius out with his reins rather than riding, no doubt to make me less of an easier target. 

We head out of the main gate and I stifle a small gasp. I hear the sounds of wailing, mothers having lost sons, wives their husbands, children their fathers. The Roman soldiers are trying to calm the area, and they’re succeeding by sheer numbers, but the sounds of grief have no master. It’s then that I realize what the crimson tinge to the soil under my sandals is. I swallow hard, willing the tears not to fall. I don’t want to look weak. But these were my people, even if we were separated by title and money and my heart aches for them. 

General Acacius sets a brisk pace, winding around the main square, no doubt trying to avoid any sort of riot or call for my head. I couldn’t blame them. Like I’d said to the General, they may like me, but my family is the reason they’re burying their boys and men needlessly. I can feel how nervous Caius is, but he trusts me fully and obediently follows me without issue. What seems like hours later, we make it out of the city. The General steers us towards a group of men guarding horses. They salute him as he walks up.

“General, sir!”

He nods and they drop their salute. “My horse.”

“Yes, sir.” One of the soldiers runs off and comes back moments later with a beautiful chestnut colored horse. He hands the reins to the General and salutes before going back to his post. The General turns to me.

“We will ride to camp. Stay close to me. Keep that palla over your hair, yes?”

“Yes, sir.”

He watches me for a moment, his hand coming up to rub his horse’s nose. “Ready?”

I swing myself up onto Caius in one fluid motion, one that I had been doing for the majority of my life and at least 10 years with Caius. His eyes linger on me as I settle in, adjusting my palla to cover my hair. Our eyes meet and he holds my gaze for just a brief moment before blinking and looking back towards his own horse, swinging himself onto the saddle. Despite my situation, I can't help but to think...

Damn he looks good on a horse. 

We don’t ride far, maybe a quarter or so mile from my city. We break through a line in the trees and I gasp - an entire camp has been built, complete with walls, tents, cooks, all of it. The soldiers by the wall call out and the gates creak open, General Acacius riding through the opening, glancing back once to make sure I’m following. We wind through the camp to where the horses are kept. He hops down from his chestnut mount and offers me his hand to help me down from Caius. I hesitate a moment before linking my hand with his and slide off of my horse. General Acacius nods to a young man and hands him the reigns to his horse, motioning to me to do the same. 

“I promise they will take good care of him.” 

I give Caius a pat on his head and hand the reigns to the boy, who leads both horses off towards the makeshift stable area. 

“Follow me,” The General commands and I comply, my sandals squishing in the mud as I go. We arrive at a grand tent, some soldiers stationed outside, one of which holds open a flap to allow General Acacius inside. He motions for me to follow and I do, feeling the tent flap close behind me. The tent is just as large as it appears. One side has a table with maps on it with little pins placed all over it. There are some traveling chests, which I assume house either weapons or other clothing or armor. On the other side of the tent is a room divider, behind which is a mattress and a small area for changing. A loud clank snaps me back to my reality and I see The General lay a sword on another table, this one set closer to his sleeping area. He removes his bracers as well, rubbing his wrists after he does so, glancing up at me.

“I will instruct my men to not touch you, but I would advise you stick to my tent.”

“I- yes. I understand, General.”

He barks out a name and I jump, the volume catching me off guard. A man enters the tent and salutes.

“Sir?”

“Fetch me some bath water for my…guest.”

“Yes, sir.” The tent flap closes behind the man as he goes off to bring the bath water.

There are a few moments of silence where he watches me, his eyes quickly glancing down my body and back up. “You can leave your belongings here.” He walks over to the divider and motions for me to follow. He points to a small crate in the corner. “You can set your bag here. I have some space in a chest for your things when we pack tomorrow.”

“Oh. Thank you, sir.”

He’s so close now, I could reach out and touch him. I want to, his greying curls and dark eyes heating me in ways I didn’t know possible. He blinks, shaking his head slightly.

“I will have them make you a sleeping mat, but you may not get it for a bit. You can take mine and I’ll sleep on the floor.”

“Absolutely not.”

He cocks his head slightly to the side, curious at this woman who would say no to him. “Excuse me?”

I clear my throat. “I won’t have the general of Rome sleeping on the floor. I can do that.”

“But, you are my guest, and a woman. I can’t allow you to do that.”

“Well then, I guess we’ll just have to share.” The words come out of my mouth before I can think. He fights back a small smirk pulling at the corners of his mouth.

“You would share a bed with a man who is not your husband?”

“My husband has been dead for many years. And not just any man. The man who saved my life.”

He watches me still, his eyes softening but somehow dark. He reaches out, hesitating a moment before gripping my upper arm. “I am sorry for your loss….well, if you insist, I promise to be respectful until we can get you your own mat.”

I speak quietly. “When I get my own mat, then you’ll be disrespectful?” I don’t intend for him to hear, but sometimes my inner thoughts become outer ones. His eyes meet mine and he opens his mouth to speak, but then several men enter with a tub full of water and the moment passes, General Acacius holding my gaze for a moment longer before dismissing the men. He pulls over another room divider and places it in front of the bathtub, gesturing towards it. “This is for you. I’ll personally stand outside to make sure no one enters.”

I nod. “Thank you.”

I take my time bathing, knowing that it may be a moment before I’m able to again. The water is cool when I emerge, wrapping a blanket around me and wringing out my hair. I pull on a clean tunic and sit on the sleeping mat, grateful that I’d packed a brush. The General returns a few minutes later, poking his head around the corner. 

“Oh. I assumed you would be asleep.”

“Almost. I won’t take up too much space.”

He waves his hand. “I am not worried.” He shuffles around, grabs some tunics from a chest, and disappears, reappearing later with wet hair that has started to curl, in a fresh tunic, sans armor. He gets on the mat beside me, trying his best with his broad frame to give me space.  

“General Acacius, it’s ok. Take as much space as you need. Tell me if you need more. Whatever you want, I will give it.”

He shifts a bit longer. “You are fine. Breakfast will be brought to us in the morning. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, General.” I settle into my spot, trying to take up as little space as possible. It’s quiet, quieter than I thought a camp would be. 

“Thank you,” I whisper to him in the dark. I know he doesn’t hear me, but I wanted to say it anyway.

“You’re welcome,” a whisper back. I smile, knowing that I at least made some sort of headway into us getting to know each other. I meant what I’d said before -I will be loyal and go wherever he wants me. Do whatever he needs me to do. I owe him my life. 

It’s early when I wake, I can tell by the quietness of the camp. Slowly, I become aware of my immediate surroundings, remembering the events of the previous day. It’s then I feel something heavy draped across my waist. I crack an eye open and look down, seeing The General’s arm casually slung across me. His breaths puff out on my neck and I can tell he’s in a deep sleep. But then he shifts and..oh. 

He’s hard and pressed against my ass, pushing against me slightly in his sleep to relieve some of the pressure. It’s been so long since I’ve had any interaction this way, let alone with someone I’m attracted to. I’m torn as to what to do. If I wake him, I don’t want him to be embarrassed. If he needs me in that way, I will happily consent. Beg for it, even. But I don’t want to be presumptuous either and take advantage of him, even if it’s just to feel his warm, protective presence. My body seems to make the decision for me, my hips grinding back on their own accord. A few seconds goes by before his hand moves and he grips my hip, his fingers digging into my skin.

“You need to stop moving.”

My cheeks heat instantly and I’m relieved he can’t see my face. “O-oh. I’m sorry if I was bothering you.”

“Not bothering me. I am trying to be respectful and you’re making it…difficult.”

“Who says you need to be respectful?”

His fingers dig in tighter and I inhale sharply, the sensation going straight between my legs. He presses himself closer to me, which heats me up more. He stays like that for several moments, his breaths fanning out over the side of my neck. But then he pulls away and sits up, my back feeling cold with his absence. 

“No. I cannot ask that of you.”

I sit up too, turning to face him. “You would not be taking advantage. I meant what I said - I am yours in whatever way you need me. I will follow you wherever you want me.”

His eyes find mine, deep and dark, as he contemplates my words. He opens his mouth to speak but then the tent flap opens and a man calls out that breakfast is ready. The General’s mouth slams shut and his expression changes. “Place it on the table.” The man complies and the tent flap closes again.

He gently places his hand over mine. “Come. Let’s eat.”

The Roman troops are impressive. 

That day, they pack up the entire camp and start the long trek towards our next destination, which is at least several days worth of traveling by land. And every night they build an entirely new camp that looks identical to the one they had outside of my city. It’s mind boggling.

Ever since our first night, The General tries harder to keep a respectful distance from me, not wanting me to feel pressured or obligated to do anything. He keeps me close though, always keeping an eye on me to make sure I’m safe. A week goes by and we’re in his tent, him pouring over maps and moving the little pieces and pins, me reading a book that he pulled from one of his chests. A soldier enters the tent with a tray of food and the General motions to his side table. The soldier leaves and I close my book, watching General Acacius for a few minutes, his brow furrowed in concentration as he stares at his board, a single curl falling forward onto his forehead. I quietly get up and cross the space to him, gently squeezing his arm. 

“Hey. Come eat.”

He blinks and looks down at me, heaving a big sigh. “You’re right. I need a break.” He follows me back to the table and sits, starting to eat some of the cooked meat the men had brought in. 

“Have you thought about what you want to do once we capture the next city?” He takes a bite out of the meat and watches me as he chews.

“Are you asking me to leave?”

He swallows, his Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat. Damn I want to lick it. “War is no place for a lady.”

“That’s not what I asked.”

He studies me for a moment. “You may do what you want. I told you you are free.”

“And I told you that I will follow you.”

“It’s dangerous.”

“You saved my life.”

“You do not wish to get married?”

I shrug. “I was married before. But I am not objecting to marrying again. To the right person.”

He takes another bite of meat and thoroughly chews it before speaking. “What happened to him? Your husband. You mentioned his passing before.”

I’m honestly surprised he hadn’t asked before. We had started having little talks at meals, but it wasn’t about anything heavy. 

“Remus was a kind man. He was the eldest son of the wealthiest merchant in our city. My father arranged our marriage to unite our houses. He was wealthy and had his own estate. We married and I moved in with him. I…suppose I loved him, in a content way. Like I said, Remus was kind, despite his hard exterior with his business dealings. He made sure I had everything I wanted. He had bought me Caius when he was just a foal. However, a few months after we were wed, he was called to the army. He left, proud to serve his people, despite his family begging him not to go. He never returned.” I take a sip from my mug, giving myself a moment to gather myself. “It was..hard, after he had passed. We had not really had a chance to have children. His family returned me to my family after a grieving period. I was allowed to keep Caius only because he had formed such a fierce attachment to me, along with some trinkets and clothes. Honestly, Remus would’ve been appalled at the way his family moved me from the estate. Anyway, I moved back in with my father and brother. A few years later, my father became ill and passed away, leaving me to my brother, Cato. He was abusive, verbally and physically. But I had nowhere to go. I dreamt every day that someone would come to take me away from him. But he always reminded me that no one would want someone who was used and old.” I shrug, taking another sip before meeting his eyes. “When I say you saved my life, I mean it. I am not simply in your debt. I want to be here.” He watches me for several moments, his jaw ticking as he fiddles with his mug. He sits up and leans forward, placing his large hand over mine.  

“I am sorry you had to endure all of that tragedy.”

“Thank you, General.”

“Marcus. Call me Marcus.”

My stomach flutters. “Marcus. Thank you.”

We’re back in the saddle the next day, me on Caius and him on his beautiful chestnut horse, Augustus. He has been softer with me since I told him my story, chatting and making jokes. He’s still respectful, never wanting to push a boundary. One that he set himself, I might add. Another camp goes up, this one built a little differently. There are more wood cabins instead of tents and Marcus explains that we may be here more than a night or two. We eventually settle into our bed, another mattress somehow never appearing for me. Not that I’m reminding anyone.

“We ride out in the morning. I want you to stay in this cabin, do you understand?”

“Y-yeah. Yes. Of course.”

He turns to me on his side, his eyes on me in the dimly lit space as I roll to look at him. He speaks quietly, but firm and I think I can make out worry in his eyes.

“I will have Caius ready and waiting for you outside. If you hear any soldiers, you take him and you ride. You run, do you understand me?”

“Yes, but what about you?”

“Don’t worry about me. You get to safety. That is your priority. Do you understand?”

“Yes, but-”

In an unexpected move, he reaches out and cups my cheek, his eyes on mine. “Promise me you’ll be safe.”

I place my hand over his. “I promise.”

General Taglist:

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[theolivetree123]

◇ Yuuki's New Club ◇

Yuuki stared at the poster in their hand. They furrowed their brow as their hand stiffened, trying not to tear the paper in frustration. Their other hand grew sweaty with fear, and the tape in that hand turned damp. Grim, Ace and Deuce simply stared. This nervousness was nothing new from Yuuki.

"Come on, Henchman, just put up the sign already!" Grim yelled causing Yuuki to drop the tape.

Yuuki groaned as they clumsily picked up the tape from the ground. "Ugh, its... it's not that simple for me, Grim! I mean, gosh... in my world, people treated me like a speck of literal dust! It's not unusual for me to not want to but myself out there. Ugh, why did Crowely even allow me to make this stupid club..."

Deuce walked to Yuuki, putting a hand on their shoulder. "Yuuki, if you need us to put up these poster for you, we can. But, just so you know, I think your club will be amazing! Whether people join or not."

Ace lightly pushed Deuce away. "Ugh, don't let them off the hook, Deuce! Yuuki should be able to do this themselves. They shouldn't be relying on us to do stuff for em! Do you remember last week when we had to give an entire presentation because Yuuki was too afraid to go up in front of the class? Or maybe when-"

"Okay! Okay! I get it, Ace..." Yuuki quickly interrupted Ace and then looked at their poster.

☆「Art Club」☆

Founded by Yuuki Kamiyama, Art Club will be for people to not only make art, but research it, learn about its origins, and come to appreciate the work that goes into making a masterpiece.

If you'd like to join, please meet Yuuki in class 1-F tomorrow immediately after school ends.

Yuuki stared at the words. Who would want to join this club? Who would want to join Yuuki? They sighed. "Do you guys think anyone would want to join this club?"

Grim, Ace and Deuce paused for a moment. Then Ace spoke up. "Of course, Yuuki. There's gotta be at least one person in this school who loves art as much as you do. I'm sure of it!"

Deuce smiled. "I agree. You'll surely find people for your club here."

Grim jumped onto Yuuki's shoulder. "Yeah! C'mon Yuuki, you gotta think positive!"

Yuuki sighed again and smiled as they brushed their hair to the side. "I sure hope you guys are right." Then, Yuuki tore a piece of tape and stuck the poster to the lunchroom wall.

"Okay, let's get out of here before I change my mind..." Yuuki quickly turned away from the poster. Ace and Deuce followed.

◇ Welcome to Art Club! ◇

Yuuki has made their very own club! In classroom 1-F, they hold Art Club.

Yuuki would love some new members! Would you be willing to join?

Rules:

Only NRC students can join!

Everyone can participate! Whether you're following me or not.

No NSFW!

You can make fanart, make cards, write fanfics, etc.

Tag me if you choose to make anything for this mini event!

If you choose to make a card, you can use these club card blanks from my good friend, trinket!

I made the club badges below and the classroom background above. Please credit me if you use them! I have made an Art Club badge for every single canon NRC dorm.

Dress Code:

All you have to do is wear your club shirt (a shirt with the club badge on it). That's it! Everything else is up to you.

I will be posting Yuuki's own club card, as well!

◇ Club Members ◇

Yuubeni Chōga - @bunniehunn

That's it!

If you have any questions, please ask me!

Tagging below:

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Let me know if you don't want to be tagged!

[wilwheaton]

The five Justices in the majority opinion, however, went farther than necessary to insulate insurrectionists from being disqualified from federal elections. They didn’t just rule that states cannot disqualify Trump, or Presidential candidates, but rather that states cannot disqualify any insurrectionist candidates for federal office. The Justices gave all the power to a notoriously dysfunctional Congress to do so, even though Section Five did not explicitly make Congress the sole enforcing authority of Section Three. As in the Dobbs case that overturned 50 years of Roe v. Wade, the conservative principle of “judicial restraint” does not exist with this Supreme Court. Republicans like to blast “activist judges,” but as we see yet again, an “activist judge” is just someone who rules against you. Under the Supreme Court’s expansive ruling, a state is currently unable to disqualify a candidate for federal office who engaged in insurrection, even if that person has been charged and convicted of insurrection. Even a federal court would be unable to bounce an insurrectionist from the ballot absent a law enacted by Congress.

There's No Restraining This Activist Supreme Court

This SCOTUS needs to be burned to the ground and rebuilt with actual Justices, instead of these unelected activists who are opposed by nearly 8 in 10 Americans.

The Courts are not going to save us. The Courts aren’t even going to enforce existing laws that were written to protect us. The Courts are actively working against Democracy and doing everything The Courts can do to hasten Fascism’s hold on the levers of power. Fascism has already come to America. It is taking root in every state that is under Republican occupation, urged on and enabled by this SCOTUS majority, and their ideological partners in the House and Senate. The only way we can stop this from spreading like a Zerg creep over all of America is to overwhelmingly put Democrats into office and then force them to act.

If Congress won’t do something to limit the grotesque abuses of power by people who don’t interpret the law, but make law from the bench, it will be up to America to rise up and demand action. 

I refuse to be ruled by 6 Christofascist Nationalists, and I refuse to sit quietly while people who have the legal means to do something throw up their hands and furrow their brows.

This is going to be our last election that matters, if we don’t.

I’m serious. If Trump somehow gets into the White House again, we will never have another election in my lifetime.

LISTEN TO ME: any vote that is not for Joe Biden is a vote to end Democracy in America. Any vote that is not for a Democrat is a vote to end Democracy in America. When I see people insisting they won’t support Biden or Democrats because they aren’t Left enough, I want to pull my hair out. The stakes are too high for all of us -- especially the most vulnerable among us -- to indulge temper tantrums.

It’s a very simple choice: you can vote for Biden and Democrats, or you can vote to turn America into a Christian Nationalist Theocracy, ruled by autocrats.

This will be our last free election, if Republicans are not resoundingly and forcefully rejected at all levels.

[gars-weaponeer]

Let's talk about he unwarranted Fox hate.

I often see that a lot of people tend to hate on Commander Fox, often portraying him as a villainous kind of character or very cold and selfish compared to the more heroic and beloved Commander Thorn.

I see these two characters portrayed as "the good commander" and "the bad commander" of the Coruscant guard, when in reality they are both pretty much the same character.

But just for the fact that Fox killed Fives, the public decided to label him as a "bad guy".

But that's not the case, in fact if we changed characters and placed Thorn hunting after Fives and Fox on the diplomatic mission, chances are both situations would have ended the same way: with Fives dead at the hands of Thorn and Fox dying heroically for the republic.

Why is this?

Well for starters we need to understand what a Coruscant guard is.

These were clones that were raised and trained differently from common clone troopers as their assignment was to act as a security police force for Coruscant. As a result, they dealt with different threats than normal troopers.

Clone troopers knew what their enemies looked like, the separatist forces were easy to recognize in the battlefield. But for the Coruscant guard the enemy could take many forms. They would not see battle droids on the streets attempting on the lives of the senate. They would have to deal with terrorists, dressed as common folk or unconscious work droids. They had to be more alert and more skeptic of their surroundings 24/7 as the fate of the republic laid in their hands.

One false move could cost the lives of the chancellor and the senate and with them the Republic would fall. That is the weight these clones carry on their shoulders. This is the responsibility that both Fox and Thorn carry along with the other commanders in red.

Both Fox and Thorn are very similar in canon.

Fox appears more than Thorn and we can see from his canon(and legends) appearances that he is a fiercely loyal clone to the republic, hard working and honorable like many of his brothers. He is the first to charge into battle, leading his troops with bravery and has little patience for criminals.

Thorn seems to have a similar sense of duty, loyalty and bravery that Fox has, as he also stands his ground during battle, refusing to surrender til the very last second. We sadly don't see more of Thorn beyond his one and only appearance.

So why do people hate Fox so much, when he and Thorn are not that different?

Well, he killed Fives.

But I don't think he should be hated for it.

To explain this, join me to see things through the fox's eye, and learn the other side of the story.

We as the audience know Fives since he is a Shiny, and we see him grow up, level up, become an ARC trooper and survive many perils. We see him discover that one plot that we know causes so much death and destruction and even tho we know the ending of the story, we want to root for him and we get frustrated when we see no-one hears him out. We also, as the audience, know that Palpatine is the bad guy, he is playing chess against himself and ruining the lives of countless people for his own sick pleasure in his path to rule the Galaxy.

But Fox doesn't know any of this.

He doesn't know Palpatine is secretly Dath Sidious. He doesn't know there is a secret plot to destroy the Jedi and that he and his brothers are just pawns in a greater scheme.

As far as he is concerned, the Chancellor is the head of the Republic, and if anything happens to him it might mean the end of the Republic and the death of not only him but all his brothers. It's his duty to protect Palpatine from harm. And there are a lot of people trying to hurt him.

He also doesn't know Fives.

He might have heard of him as Fives is a respected ARC trooper from the 501st. But he doesn't know him personally like we do, like Rex does. He has no real connection to him other than Fives being another Clone like him.

So when he hears that there is this erratic clone that tried to kill Palpatine and is now on the run, of course he would see Fives as a threat.

Remember that the Kaminoans covered the whole inhibitor chip thing by saying it was a behavioral regulator, that kept Clones from becoming aggressive and erratic. The Kaminoan even took the example of Tup's chip malfunction as proof that without the chip the clones turn irrational and unpredictable. This is the information the characters have. The ONLY ONES that know the truth are Palpatine, the Kaminoans and Fives.

So in Fox's eyes, Fives turned erratic because he also has a chip malfunction. He became irrational, unpredictable, erratic and has attempted to kill someone before. He might try to do so again and is now on the run. It's his duty as head of the Coruscant guard to find him and stop him before he hurts someone.

When he finds Fives, he has Anakin and Rex as hostages and is talking nonsense, acting erratic and paranoic. He could hurt Anakin or Rex, two very important and prominent figures in the GAR and their deaths could result in disadvantage against the Separatist forces. Fox cannot afford that. And yet he doesn't enter shooting, he points his gun at Fives and orders him to raise his hands and surrender. He gives Fives a chance to go peacefully, to de-escalate the situation. And when he sees that Fives looks at the blaster on his side he even yells at him to stop, he asks him not to do it, not to take the gun and make things worse. But Fives doesn't listen, he takes the gun yelling and Fox has to make a split-second decision.

In a moment like that, when you are a second away of a disaster, when you, your brothers or the hostages could get killed by the shot of a unhinged person. You don't get enough time to think.

Fox reacts and shoots Fives to stop him from harming others.

Sure, we could argue that Fox could have used stun instead, or that he could have shot Five's hand, anything to not kill him.

But we need to understand that in situations like that, when tensions are high, then it's life or death and you have to take a split-second decision, you don't usually have time to be rational.

Even the most trained people can't always take the most rational option, and often choose the best option they can.

Fox took the best option he could in that situation.

And I don't think that Thorn, Thire, Stone or any of the other Shock trooper Commanders would have done any different, any better.

They all would have been faced with the same dire situation, and they all would have had to take the split-second decision.

One could argue that the fact that Fox was not present in the circle of Coruscant guards taking off their helmets as they mourn Fives, could imply that he was indifferent to his death.

And maybe? However I don't think that's the case.

Remember that Fox tried to stop Fives, he tried to give him a chance to surrender and in the end he couldn't stop. He had to shoot a fellow clone. A clone whose face he sees in all his brothers, the companions he trained with, fought with, work with everyday. He did not wanted to kill Fives.

That has to be very haunting.

I like to believe that Fox is not the mourning circle, because he had to take a step back to come to terms to what he has done.

Fox has been proven to be an honorable man. How can he stand a join the mourning of a man he just killed? How can he see into Rex's eyes as he cries for the close brother he has lost? Maybe he felt like he had no right to be there.

Then again this is just my speculation, considering what little canon we have of Fox.

In general I don't think we should hate on Fox for Fives' death. Sure, Fives is easily my second favorite clone, way above Fox in my raitings, and I suffered a lot when he died. But I do think that the situation was way to out of hand and Fox did as best as he could to keep everyone safe.

Fives was not at fault either. Remember he was drugged, and he was feeling frustrated, paranoic, confused, he was panicking and not thinking clearly.

The only one at fault here is Palpatine and his schemes.

That said...

I'm not saying that you should stop portraying Fox as a cold and ruthless character.

Hell, I myself like to represent him as a more stoic and sarcastic person compared to his brothers and I've seen many different portrayals of this character, with many different personalities that I love!

You are free to a enjoy the fandom as you wish after all!

Just keep this post in mind and please don't hate on people who like Fox as a character.

We all deserve to enjoy Star Wars and it's wonderful characters that inspire us.

┕━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━┙

Well, this has been my Rant! If you reached all the way down here thank you for reading ♥

And may the force be with you.