#naera raumon

[midnight-bay-if]

what would the RO's do if MC rejected them...

not that anyone would reject the gorgeous RO's (Taj especially <3) but still...

(My poor pookies, haha.)

S: They would throw themselves even more readily into their work. Better to mask the hurt behind a facade of being busy. Give themselves a moment to rest, and their mind may betray them with thoughts of you... but it becomes much harder to remain steadfast and focused. Before you, they had already settled with being married to their work. You gave them hope there might be another future in wait for them.

It will be hard to let that go.

Rain: At the moment of rejection, Rain wears a tight smile, gritting their teeth as they will their eyes dry. They do not wish to cry. They are embarrassed enough without that image searing into their brain. After that, they stick closer to Taj and S, gripping onto them like a lifeline. It was the first time Rain had put themselves out there since joining them; now they are all that remains to keep them afloat.

Taj: They will scoff, bluster, pretend, wave you off as if you didn't just stab them right in the heart. No matter how you attempt to soften the blow, Taj will hurt, and the hurt presents as fury. They gave you a chance. A human a chance. They never would have done it if they didn't honestly believe there was a connection. It took them so long to even give the idea of the time of day, not seeing the worth they could bring you.

The worst part is it's not even your fault. You didn't make them believe it was possible; they did it all on their own.

If you thought Taj was grumpy before... Maybe maintain a healthy distance after that.

N: It does not hurt. Of course, it doesn't. They are a demon, incapable of feeling. They are creatures of chaos with hands designed to grip the throat of mercy and squeeze. It is not surprising you would turn your back on that. It is the natural order of things.

It does not hurt.

If you thought N was wearing a mask before, you will never see it drop again. It is all they can do to hide the gaping hole in the heart they did not believe in until you.

Umbra: It's what they expected. It is only fitting you should desire more for yourself than them. Still, they want to be near you. They could not bear it if you turned from them completely. So, even if you do not love them as they love you, just let them remain close.

Nothing else matters.

[midnight-bay-if]

What would the ROs do if they woke up to find the mc had left the room to sleep like on the couch or something because they didn’t want to wake the ROs up with nightmares?

S: Their eyes flutter open, noticing the hand they rested on your waist now clutches the cold sheets where you once lay. They do not hesitate to search for you but are stricken by what they find. You, curled into a ball on the couch, whimpering in fear from whatever haunts your dreams. It's a familiar picture, and it pains them that you feel obligated to bear it alone when you have been so gracious with their own nightmares.

Without a word, S carefully manoeuvres themselves on the couch so their chest is pressed against your back. They slide one arm under your head while the other cradles your arm, intertwining your fingers in theirs. "Do not isolate yourself needlessly, darling," they whisper, pressing a soft kiss to your shoulder. "We are aware of one another's darkness, yet here we remain. Please, do not starve me of my strength."

Rain: Rain is a light sleeper, so the moment the mattress rises from the lack of weight, their eyes flutter open to find you perched on the edge, readying yourself to leave. Before you can move, however, Rain reaches out, laying their hand atop yours, tugging your attention.

"Can't sleep?" They ask with a bleary smile.

"Nightmare," you repeat wearily, "It's okay. Go back to sleep. I'm going to sleep on the couch."

Rain's brow furrows, their lips thinning into a displeased frown. "Please stay. I don't like sleeping alone, you know?" They lean forward, pressing a soft kiss to the back of your hand that they hold. "If you are concerned about your nightmares keeping me awake, you needn't be. When alone, I do not sleep at all. I finally rest when I am beside you. Stay."

Taj: It takes until the morning for Taj to realise you sneaked out of bed in the night. Expecting to gather you in their arms the moment their eyes open, they are disappointed to find your side of the bed long cold. Grousing, they drag themselves out of bed to go hunt for you. They find you already in the kitchen making a pot of coffee, dishevelled hair and dark circles under your eyes.

"Didn't sleep well?" Taj queries, a cold stare you recognise all too well. It's the look of being perceived.

You shrug, trying to play off what you know they have already seen. "Nightmare," you offer, a slither of the truth, "but I didn't want to disturb you, so I tried sleeping on the couch."

Taj snarls, closing the distance and wraps their arms around your waist, resting their chin on your shoulder. "Don't do that."

"Do what?"

"Pretend. I hate it." Their breath hitches. "I didn't even realise you were gone. I hate that, too. Wake me next time."

"You know you hate it when I wake you."

"Not if you're scared. Not if you need me."

N: N stretches their limbs, cursing the crick in their back as equally as the hard lumps in your mattress. They really must convince you to purchase something a little more luxurious. You'll thank them later. Their eyes flutter open, expecting to see you pressed closely to them, your rhythmic breathing lulling them sweetly back to sleep. But you are gone. Instinctively, they want to reach out with their mind to locate you, but they push it back down. Boundaries.

It's still dark, but N has no problem navigating it. The apartment is small, so figuring out where you have gone doesn't take a genius. Moments later, they find you curled into a ball, shivering and whimpering in your sleep. They tut, shaking their heads.

"I really wish you would ask for help, my dear," they whisper to themselves, kneeling until they are level with you. They press a hand to your forehead, allowing some of their warmth to seep into your skin. "Allow me to lay to rest whatever is troubling you inside that noggin' of yours, love, or at least let me stand beside you. Do not hide from me."

Umbra: Usually, Umbra spends their nights curled up at your window or lying beside you, guarding your sleep against those who might impose. It mostly depends on you. They like watching you fall asleep pressed against them because sometimes, on occasion, they allow their own eyes to shut. They do not need to, but being with you inspires hopes of ordinary domesticity; it reminds them to live.

But it never lasts long. The moment you shift in your sleep, and the fidgeting and the whimpering starts, Umbra is awake and alert. They once asked S what they might do to help in such a situation, but there is no magic cure, just reassurance. "I am here," they whisper, unsure if you can hear. "You are safe. You are safe." The words are a safety net they sometimes question whether they know how to wield.

You wake with a start, shoving yourself to the other side of the bed, chest heaving and hands shaking. You stare at Umbra, eyes wide, fear gripping your throat. "I'm sorry. Did I disturb you?"

"No," Umbra replies simply. "You never could."

"Would you prefer me to sleep elsewhere?"

"Why would I prefer that?" They query, cocking their head to one side. "I cannot protect you if you are anywhere else."

(Hopefully this was okay!)

[midnight-bay-if]

How would the RO’s react to accidentally walking in on the MC changing during the crushing phase?

S: They already have their question prepped, glancing down at the papers in their hands with purpose. Their mind is cluttered, chaotic; they need to ask you now before the next item on their itinerary takes precedence. So, momentarily, manners are left aside. They push open the door to your bedroom, the question already on the tip of their tongue, when they come face to face with you, holding out a shirt to your bare torso to cover your modesty.

"Ah, apologies, MC!" They declare, whipping their face in the opposite direction to you so fast you would think they had been struck. "Forgive me; my question can wait." They leave the room without waiting for a response, closing it securely behind them. Red-faced, cheeks burning, they wait patiently beside the door, knuckles white from the grip on the paper.

They squeeze their eyes shut, desperate to push the mental image out of their mind. This is not how they first wanted to see your skin bared. "Idiot, Selby. Damn idiot."

Rain: Rain is still learning. Personal space and privacy were foreign concepts back home. So, when Rain decides they want to talk to you, they do not even stop to think about the closed door separating you from them. They push it open, stepping into the room without a second thought. When they see you standing there, half-dressed with wide eyes, their cheeks heat up, but otherwise, they do not blink.

"MC, I was thinking--"

"Rain!" You scold, doing your best to cover yourself more.

"Oh," Rain mumbles, some of Selby's etiquette lessons coming to the surface of their mind. "This is rude, isn't it?" Mortification wraps into guilt, and Rain quickly turns their back. "So sorry, MC! I forgot! I wasn't trying to look, I swear!"

It's a lesson they will not forget again.

Taj: As far as they are concerned, they are trapped in your suffocating apartment against their will. They could be at the Selby Manor with their own room, filled with home comforts and surrounded by quiet gardens with only the birds for company. Instead, they are pacing one room with headphones on, doing their best to drown out Rain's incessant chatter. So, when they decide to push open the door of your bedroom without knocking, are they doing it on purpose to be irritating? Yes. But would they have done it if they knew they would greeted with the sight of your bare, flushed skin? No. Of course not.

"Fuck!" They exclaim, slapping a hand over their eyes. "Couldn't you put up a sign?! Or, I don't know, fucking tell us you are getting changed!"

"But it's my room--"

Taj doesn't wait for you to finish your sentence, slamming the door shut behind them. They drop their forehead against the door's wood, breathing heavily against it. When the image of you doesn't immediately dissipate, they begin banging their head against it.

"Stop thinking about it. Do. Not. Think. About. It. Damn it, S is going to kill me."

N: If anything, it is your fault. You have already expressed an interest in a quiet mind in moments of solitude. N is only trying to accommodate your requests. So, when N stumbles upon you half-naked, it is only because you asked them to come to find you in person should they wish to discuss anything.

Your startled cry as you cover yourself with your shirt is adorable, actually.

"Oh, MC, you really shouldn't have," they tease, smirking, leaning against the door frame. "If I had known your mental blocking was intending to entice me into your room, I would have come in sooner."

"I wasn't..." You huff, the frustration they find so endearing bubbling to the service. "Please leave."

They shrug. "Have it your way, my dear," they reply, pushing off the doorframe. "If you change your mind, you know where to find me."

Umbra: They have spent far too much time on the outskirts of civilisation, watching from afar. Boundaries are a new concept to them. Learning human behaviour from the shadows at a distance has left their education in some areas needing improvement. Umbra is just excited to be close to you, always. Even if you can't necessarily see they are present, they would happily watch you from the darkness.

There was never anybody around to teach them it was wrong.

You taught them enough to announce their presence - that they no longer need to skulk in the shadows. You are happy to have them near. But the lesson failed to teach them that sometimes they have to wait for a response before entering your space.

They knock sharply, already reaching for the door handle. "MC, It's Umbra. I'm announcing myself," they state bluntly, pushing the door open, made all the quicker by the startled yell you release as your feet tangle in your pant leg. Umbra shoots to your side, dismissing your half-nakedness in favour of checking for injury. "MC, are you okay?"

"It was a good attempt, Umbra," you say, trying to be encouraging. Maybe next time, wait until I say you can come in?"

[midnight-bay-if]

How would each ro act after the first morning after waking up next to mc?

(I'm so sorry if these aren't perfect, but I'm not sleeping so well at the moment. I'm really behind on asks, though, so I still wanted to power through and answer this anyway. I hope it's okay!)

S: S blinks the sleep from their eyes, the morning sun cutting through the gap in the blinds and clearing the haze in their eyes. For a moment, it's a morning like any other. They turn their head to look at the alarm clock on the bedside table. 6:55am, precisely five minutes before their set alarm. Perfect, as usual. They lean over to switch it off.

Then, you shift beside them, the mattress dipping with the movement. S turns their head towards you, a soft smile tugging at their lips. You lay on your side, one hand tucked beneath the pillow that cradles your head. S watches for a moment, taking in how the light of the morning gently caresses your skin. Heat blooms in their chest, admiring how soft your expression is.

Careful not to wake you, S leans forward to press a soft kiss on your forehead, lingering there a moment before slowly climbing out of bed to prepare themselves for the day ahead. After a quick shower, they will go downstairs to prepare breakfast in bed for you. In the meantime, they will let you sleep. Your soft, peaceful look as you sleep is worth protecting.

Rain: Rain rubs their eyes, yawning as the midmorning sun burns threateningly through the dark curtains holding the light at bay. They stretch out their arms above their heads, ignoring the snap of their elbow as it straightens out. They hum, a smile already on their lips before their mind can catch up to why.

A soft sigh pulls their attention to the usually empty space in their bed. As Rain's eyes rest upon your face, their smile widens to a grin, butterflies fluttering in their stomach. Unable to resist temptation, they reach out, tenderly running their fingers across your cheek. They can't believe you are real—that this moment is real.

The excitement bubbles up inside them until it can no longer be contained. They nudge themselves over to your side of the bed until they are a hair's breadth from your space. Slowly, they slide their arm beneath your head before flinging a leg over you, craning it back towards them to enclose the space between you. Your eyes flicker open as Rain presses their forehead against yours.

"Good morning, dear," they greet cheekily. "Sleep well?"

Taj: Taj lies on their back, staring up at the ceiling as they have done much of the night. They have the scuff marks above them memorised at this point. Some chipped paint, a random stain leftover from a slipped tile where the rain soaked through, and some slight yellowing from the nicotine of their cigarettes when they are too lazy to smoke outside.

It's all they have been able to do to stop themselves from staring at your sleeping face all night. Taj never expected this. They never expected someone to want them intimately enough to have this. There's been the odd tumble beneath the sheets in their past, but they were alone again by morning. It's the smart thing to do. The easy thing.

Taj dares a glance to the side, your face much more visible with the rays of sunshine poking through the blinds. Nothing about what they have with you is easy, yet sleepless nights have never felt so welcoming. A hint of a smile sneaks at the corner of their lips as Taj finally turns their body to face you completely.

"I don't know what you're doing to me," Taj whispers, hoping your sleep swallows the words. "... but you better not take it back."

N: N stretches languidly, a heavy sigh on their lips. Their skin tingles with the spectre of your touch trailing the same paths from the previous night, creating an indecipherable warmth to build in their chest - a warmth so pleasant it makes them stop, their breath catching in their throat. Memories of the previous night flood their mind; their brows crease, their lips forming a displeased line.

N finally takes in the room around them, the bed they share with you. It's their first time waking in your bed as the sun rises - a level of intimacy they suddenly feel unprepared for. This isn't them. This isn't what they do.

Passion is an instrument they have tuned well. The strings play a sordid melody under their fingers, designed to entice and entwine. A momentary escape before the strings snap. By then, it's already too late. N has taken precisely what they desired, leaving nothing left.

It started that way with you, too: a new composition with a new instrumentalist, but the steps remained the same. So they believed. Before they knew it, they were dancing to your tune of soft words and intimacy with terrifying enthusiasm. And they do not understand it.

"You are frightening, my dear."

Umbra: Everything feels new. Umbra doesn't typically sleep; they have no need to and have never desired to, either. The dark is full of nightmares, danger and shadow. The night is who they are; it's where they belong. That is, until you. You helped them step out of the shadow, to become a person who touches, who feels, who basks in the light.

So, Umbra's eyes blink the sleep from their eyes, a single tear drop escaping through the blurriness. They turn to you, expecting to see you huddled tight under the blankets to ward off the cold. Instead, you lean close, one leg intertwined with theirs as if basking in their chill. Umbra inhales sharply, their throat choking the emotion from them. The sight of you so peaceful, so still in their presence, is overwhelming.

Umbra dares to run a hand through your hair, no longer afraid you will recoil from their touch. They smile to themselves, their lips cracking with a beautiful sting as they stretch.

If waking up feels like this, Umbra chooses it every time.

[midnight-bay-if]

Hey, hey!!😊

Quick ask, what would ROs do if they saw someone hitting Mc? (I feel like I'm going to see the chaos that the ROs are going to create, pure fun 😎)

Bye, bye!!

(Oh, dear... Yep, you'll unleash the beast with an ask such as this. The beast being all of the ROs because all of them are capable of being monsters if pressed, haha.)

S: S watches you from a distance, as they so often do when they are around you. It isn't on purpose. Their eyes are naturally drawn to you when their mind begins to wander. But what they wander to this time is less pleasant. They don't know who it is with you, but it is obvious the conversation isn't going well. Then, they strike you across the face. It happens in moments, but it slows down for S.

In theory, S knows you can handle yourself well enough. The hit was sloppy with little technique; they have seen you take worse. Yet the indignity of it all only makes them feel... angry.

"You do attract some odd sorts, MC," S says, stepping between you and the assailant, arms crossed with muscles flexed. "Now even rodents are vying for your attention."

The stranger steps forward momentarily, blind rage cutting through common sense before reason again takes hold. They weigh their chances against the two of you before quickly scuttling away with their head dipped low.

"I could have handled that, S."

S turns back to you with a soft smile. "I know. That was for me." S reaches out and gently caresses the area that was struck. "Let's find something cold for the swelling. Then you can tell me all about how you managed to anger the pest."

Rain: Rain's been a little distracted by their surroundings. They still have much to learn about the human world, which can be a lot to take in. So, they don't realise they have been gradually wandering further and further away from you; not until they turn around to ask you a question, and you aren't there. They are momentarily confused until they spot you a little away being confronted by someone who looks especially angry.

The man leers into your space before reaching out to slap you across the face. It shocks them. The blatant violence against you is harrowing and difficult to believe despite it staring them right in the face.

Rain sprints to close the distance, setting themselves between you and the attacker with a face of fury reserved for only the worst of creatures.

"Back off. Now."

The man scoffs, clearly not very impressed. "This has nothing to do with you. This is between me and them."

"Wrong." Rain pulls out an official-looking badge that denotes them as a government employee. "I suggest you walk away before this becomes my problem further."

The man tuts, shakes his head, then turns on his heel with a quick step.

"I had that handled, Rain."

Rain sighs. Then turns to you and shrugs. "At least he's gone now. Let's get some ice for that cheek, shall we?"

Taj: Taj has zoned out. Sometimes, they have to do it in public to stop themselves from feeling suffocated by the people around them, which gets them in trouble a lot. S can be whittling away battle plans on the fly and will quiz them once finished, only to find Taj had stopped paying attention about halfway through.

So, it isn't immediately apparent to them that you have begun to draw back. But they do not step too far away before their ears twitch, alerting them to a change in surroundings. They turn back, expecting you to already be rushing to catch up, but instead see you waylaid by a furious man shouting spittle in your face.

Taj is already rushing back in your direction when they see the closed fist contact your cheek. A burning heat engulfs the pit of their stomach, and their vision hazes red as Taj pounces onto your assailant, forcing them to their floor as their fists and claws start going wild.

"How dare you?! You filthy little--"

You have to drag them away. It isn't pretty. The man's face is bleeding from multiple lacerations, terror in his eyes as he crawls to his feet and dashes down the street.

Taj is breathing heavily, their skin burning hotter than usual. They feel tiny lumps of skin collected under their fingernails from where they dug them into the human's face. It was wild, untamed. They want to keep going.

"Taj?"

Taj inhales sharply, closing their eyes as they count to ten in their head. 0ne, two, three...

They feel your hand on their arm and open their eyes again.

"Are you... all right?" Taj finally says. "Are you hurt?" A warm hand encompasses your cheek with much more gentleness than they showed the man.

"We need to go. Now," you command, tugging on their sleeve. "Hopefully S will know how to fix this."

N: It is common for N to fill the silence with the sound of their own voice. They have a lot to say, and their voice is lovely by the way. So, when you are wandering the street, and N is gesturing wildly as they recount the tale of their day, they don't immediately notice you lagging behind. "And that is when I said, 'Nice try. Next time try using your actual legs to--" They stop, eyebrows creased and turn towards you.

The instant they do, a resounding slap fills the space. Your head turns with it, but otherwise, nobody moves. N feels the Hael in them raging. The fire that keeps them tethered unleashes inside them, boiling their blood dangerously.

But they do their best to mask it, hiding behind an insidious grin.

"And who is this delightful individual, MC?" They ask, reaching out to grab the woman's hand before she can pull back, gripping it tightly. "You always make such interesting friends."

Sensing their darkness, you place a placating hand on their shoulder. "It's okay, N. I can handle this."

The woman senses it, too. N may be smiling, but there's no amusement there. She's scared; all previous bravado has wilted to nothing. So, N lets her go.

"Scuttle away now, my dear," they say, waving their hand away as if dismissing a servant. "Before my hand slips."

The woman does as she is bid in record time, and N's smile slowly twists to a snarl. "Wretched cur."

"It's fine. I'm fine. Let's just drop it."

N inhales deeply, the hatred still burning. Then, they firmly plant a smile back on their face. "Of course, my dear. Let us go about our day together, unspoiled. You should probably get that face seen to. We can't allow your perfect features to become marked, can we?"

Strangely enough, you don't bump into the woman again on your usual morning routes. It's almost as if she has vanished entirely from Albach Bay.

Umbra: Umbra spent some time away from you today. They are getting better at it. Their instinct is still to remain close, watchful, a silent sentinel destined to guard you. But they have since learned that it can be unhealthy to have such a strong attachment to a living person—unhealthy for the recipient and harmful for the provider. It's not something they particularly understand, but they want to learn—for you.

But now they are keen to return to your side. It's been two hours, after all. That's more than enough time for something dreadful to have happened. They need to see you. To see you safe.

They round a corner, their face lighting up when their eyes catch you. The other person with you barely gets a second glance. Until that person lifts a hand to you, anyway. Then, Umbra is instilling that face into memory. Within moments, a cloud of black smoke disappears and reappears beside the assailant, a black dagger curled beneath his throat, pressing against the skin.

Black smoke pillows out of Umbra's eyes, the typical whites of their eyes pitch black. Within a breath, a dagger is pressed close to the man's throat, nicking at the skin.

"How dare you?!" The voice is raspy, much lower than Umbra's usual tone, and joined by a myriad of dissonant whispers.

You reach out, grasping Umbra's arm to stop them. "No, Umbra! Don't!"

Your voice cuts through the fog, the black in their eyes returning white as they turn to you. "But this man--"

"Does not deserve to die!"

Umbra feels your anger and disappointment in them. It cuts deeper than any dagger could. But they do not know how to differentiate between those who hurt you and those who should die for it.

Umbra drops the knife from the man's neck, stepping away to let him run. And run, he does. Umbra watches a moment longer, allowing the man to shriek and holler far into the distance.

"We should go. Now. Hopefully S can fix this."

Umbra follows, their dagger arm still itching.

(I may have gotten slightly carried away again. Why do I do this? lol)

[midnight-bay-if]

How would the ROs react if MC came home soaking wet from the rain with a kitten in their arms and said "it's ours now"

S: They sigh, pressing a hand to their temple as they ward off the headache they already feel coming. “Very well, darling. I will find some towels.” It is difficult not to glance around the room at their perfectly polished surfaces with everything purposefully placed and not mourn.

But then they turn back around to see you softly cradling the kitten in your hands with a soft smile, and they give in. Perhaps they could allocate extra time in their schedule to more cleaning duties?

Rain: Rain gasps, excitedly rushing to you as you hold the tiny kitten close to your chest. “They are adorable!” They gush, kneeling down to ‘coo coo’ and wiggle a finger in front of the kitten’s face. “Maybe we should call them Taj. It would drive Taj crazy!”

“Absolutely not.”

*Okay, okay," they murmur, hovering closer to the kitten. "Taj junior, then."

Taj: Taj immediately springs up from where they sit. “Where did you find them?” They ask, coaxing the kitten out of your hands and into theirs, their ears twitching as if to communicate with the kitten.

“They were alone in the rain.”

Taj scowls. “The mother was definitely gone, right?”

You nod sadly. Taj understands your meaning without needing to speak a word.

“Let’s get some blankets. I’ll head out and get what I can. There has to be somewhere in this shi— uh, town, still open.”

N: “Oh, absolutely not,” N chides, shaking their head, pointedly looking everywhere but the kitten in your hands. “I will not share you with a rodent.”

“She’s not a rodent!” You scold before returning your attention to the kitten with warm eyes. “Don’t listen to the big, mean, demon, okay? They have no concept of cuteness.”

“Excuse me? I am the very definition of cute. And if you want me to purr, my dear, you need only ask.”

Umbra: Umbra’s eyes widen at the sight of the soaked kitten. “They look so cold…”

“Yeah, I need to get some blankets. Would you hold them for a moment?” you ask, holding the kitten towards Umbra, who quickly backs away.

“I… I’m not sure if that is a good idea. They are already so cold… I don’t want to hurt it.”

You shake your head, smiling. “You are fine, Umbra. You won’t hurt it.” You hold out the kitten for Umbra to take, who does so as if the kitten were made of glass. “I’ll only be a moment.”

Umbra stares down at the kitten nervously, but the moment the kitten bumps their head against their hand, they relax. "You're not afraid of me... Most people are afraid of me."

[midnight-bay-if]

i kinda took this ask from another if, but..

How would the ROs react to knowing there is one bed in the room their in and MC is like “You should take the bed, I’ll sleep on the floor/couch” even if they know MC haven’t been getting the best sleep in a while

(I’ll have to assume this is at the crushing stage. Gotta love the ‘only one bed’ scenario.)

S: “I’m afraid not,” S states decisively, already situating themselves on the couch, their feet propped up on one arm, “manners dictate that I be the one to offer up the bed, MC. I know you have not been sleeping well recently.” They smile softly, their eyes perceiving you in a way that should make you feel uncomfortable but instead offer only comfort. “Get some rest. We need you at your best.”

Rain: “Well, couldn’t we just share the bed?” Rain asks, shrugging, before realising how the suggestion might sound. “But not in a creepy way! I sleep with Taj all the time. Wait, not like that! Ugh.” Their voice comes out in layers of frustration, but they quickly shake it off, take a deep breath, and try again. “We both could use a decent night’s rest, and the bed is big enough for two. We could top and tail?”

Taj: “Fine by me,” they agree readily, making a point of bouncing on the bed, propping a hand behind their bed in an exaggerated show of comfort. It was supposed to be a joke, a slight dig under your skin to coax out your more argumentative side. Except, you lay down on the couch without complaint, bending your knees and curling up into yourself without a word. Taj tuts, rolls their eyes, and turns over. Well, whatever, right? Why should it be them that lose sleep? The argument that they would have had with you plays out in their head, and even without your participation, they still lose. “I can’t do this,” they grumble, dragging themselves over to the couch. “Move, Koel,” they order impatiently, “I can sleep anywhere, it’s a gift. Take the bed.”

N: “Are you certain, my dear?” They grin, their eyes turning salacious. “We could always share.” They saunter closer to you, leaning forward so their breath tickles your ears as they run a finger down your cheek. “I could ensure your sleep is peaceful, or perhaps you would prefer a dreamscape of passion?” They can’t stop themselves from laughing when you pointedly turn on your heel to get yourself comfortable on the couch. “Suit yourself,” they offer with a shrug, “I can’t promise my own dreams won’t bleed over, however.”

Umbra: “I don’t even need to sleep, MC,” they point out, shaking their head and gently taking your arm and guiding you towards the bed. “Take care of yourself first, always, and I will take care of the rest.”

[midnight-bay-if]

Hi! I want to say I love your IF so far ❤️ Also, how would the ROs react (relationship stage) if the MC gave them a kiss every morning before getting on with the day but one morning they accidentally forgot?

(Thank you so much!! Aw, this is cute. Here we go...)

S: They are waiting. It's usually like clockwork; a part of their day they have weaved into their very strict morning routine. They even lean forward in preparation. Nothing.

You breeze past them, and their brows furrow in confusion. Have they done something? Did they forget something important? Unlikely. They are usually good at remembering key details, especially regarding you. Well, this useless speculation is pointless. Better to just communicate directly.

"Is everything okay, darling?"

"Yes, why?"

"Well, I couldn't help but notice you skipped over our kiss this morning. I wondered if there was something on your mind?"

Your response will determine their course of action. There isn't a thing they wouldn't do to ensure that kiss remains a part of their morning routine forever.

Rain: They don't realise straight away. Rain can be very scatterbrained on busy days. So, when they wave you off for the morning, and the quiet begins to build, only they realise something is off. It plays on their minds. They are forgetting something; they know it.

Then it hits them—your kiss. Now, they are panicking. What could this mean? And how could they have possibly forgotten? Are you drifting away from them? Well, the only thing to do is plan a romantic evening together to fix this mistake. Expect candles, a relaxing bath, and maybe even a massage if you're up for it. They will eventually ask about the kiss, but it feels important to remind you how much you are loved first.

Taj: There aren't many things Taj looks forward to, but the little moments with you are the few precious things they covet. So, when you pull back without sharing them, Taj's ears twitch, and their tail sways.

Tsk. Who cares anyway? They don't. In fact, it's kind of gross how often humans feel the need to exchange bodily fluids. It makes no difference to them whatsoever.

It becomes obvious to everyone else who watches Taj's restless foot-tapping that they are, in fact, bothered—very much so. Don't expect them to bring it up first, however. Taj can be petty... and patient. It would take a kiss to break the curse of their silent spell.

N: Considering you have to practically pry N's hands off you most mornings, it would be very surprising to them if they hadn't even been able to sneak a kiss from you. They would never admit it, but it bruises their ego to think you may not be as bewitched by them as they are you.

The passive aggression is the first indicator. "Did you have a nice day, my dear? Oh, good. How darling for you. You didn't feel as if you had forgotten something, then... or someone?"

It would be wise to shut them up with a kiss quickly.

Umbra: Umbra isn't above puppy eyes nor following you around like one. They have very little concept of shame. So, when you don't press a soft kiss to their lips first thing in the morning, Umbra becomes like your second shadow.

The third time you turn around and accidentally step on their feet because they ARE RIGHT THERE, you sigh. "What is it, Umbra?"

Umbra glances down sheepishly, twiddling their thumbs. "You didn't kiss me... Would you let me kiss you instead?"

It still takes a lot of courage for Umbra to feel deserving of asking such a thing from you. But they are getting better at believing they are worthy, thanks to you.

[midnight-bay-if]

What would be the reaction of the ROs if a package arrived and the MC said it was an accessory they bought for the RO to wear because they think it would be nice on them. But when the RO open the package they see a dog/cat collar due to a misdelivery? The ROs don't know that it's a misdelivery and MC didn't see it bacause they are washing the dishes or something like that.

(I see you, anon. I see you. Retconning the 90s setting so you can get a collar for your RO. I understand. Also, sorry about the wait!)

S: Their brow raises into a sharp arch as they pluck the collar from the box, holding it up by the tip of their finger. “Are you certain this was for me, darling?” They ask a hint of amusement in their voice. “Because I rather think this would suit you much better.”

Rain: Rain’s face burns red at the sight of the collar in the box. Suddenly, they are re-evaluating their whole existence. “I didn’t realise that this kind of thing was your taste.” Biting their lip nervously, they reach into the box and pull the collar out. They hold it in their hands, assessing it, before testing it around their neck. They turn to look at their reflection in a nearby mirror, and somehow, their skin turns redder. “But… I suppose it doesn’t look bad.”

Taj: Taj growls at the sight of it. They pluck it out with their forefinger and thumb, holding outwards as far as possible as if at risk of catching something from it. “Is this supposed to be funny, Koel?”

The anger in Taj’s voice makes you stop dead in your tracks. When you turn to face the fire in their eyes, your mouth drops open. “N-No, that’s not what I ordered, I swear!”

The sincerity in your voice wipes away some of the anger. Taj drops the collar back into the box as if burned. “I am definitely buying you a cage, little bird.” You are grateful for the jab when you see the corner of Taj’s mouth inch upwards. "I need somewhere to put you when you've been bad."

N: "Oh, my," N utters, an excited lilt to their voice. "I never knew you were the type, my dear." N pulls the collar out of the box, holding it against their against their skin.

Sensing that N was strangely excited. You turn, and your mouth drops. "Wait, no that's not--"

N waves you off. "It's okay, MC. Everyone has their vices. I'm happy to fulfil any fantasy you might have. All I ask is that I see you in this collar... just once."

Umbra: Umbra raises a sceptical brow at the collar, packaged neatly inside the box. Did you get a pet? But you said it was specifically for them, right? Well, you know them better than anybody, so if you believe this would suit them, then it probably will.

Without a second thought, Umbra takes the collar to a mirror. They awkwardly use the reflection to try to wrap the collar around their neck and poke the prong through the holes. Once it's in place, Umbra stares at their reflection for a moment. Well, as long as MC is happy.

"MC. I've tried it on. Do you like it?"

Your bright red face is answer enough.

[midnight-bay-if]

ROs react to them being away for awhile and then finally back only to find the MC is in bed with their clothes, snuggling them close while also wearing their favourite/wore most shirt 👀

(This is nice after the angst I just had to write, haha.)

S: The last thing they wish to do is disturb your sleep, but the sight of you so relaxed, so carefree, while being so close to a part of them fills them with unbridled joy. They inch closer to the bed with soft footsteps before sitting on its edge. They gently caress your hair, whispering: "I'm home, love. I hope your dreams have been pleasant."

They don't expect an answer. It's enough to see you sleeping soundly.

Rain: They cannot contain themselves. They have already spent the time away wishing away the hours, desperate to return to your side. It's not ideal that their return is marked by the clock striking midnight, but they have waited long enough already.

They rush into your bedroom, a huge grin on their faces. The door bounces off the wall to announce their arrival, and you shoot awake in alarm, but only long enough for Rain to jump onto the bed, narrowly missing planting an elbow into your ribs. "Sorry, sorry, sorry..." they mumble, smoothing a hand over your torso before their fingers settle on the material of their favourite cardigan. Their eyes mist up as they realise you have missed them just as much. "The next time S asks me to go on a mission away, I'm saying no. Not unless you are with me."

Taj: If anyone asked, they would deny it. No, barely any time has passed at all. How could they possibly be missing you in such a short time away? Yet, when they return to your apartment in the pitch black, they do not hesitate to head straight to your bedroom; their feet pace quicker than usual.

At first, they have no intention of waking you. They just want to see you. To see your face and know that you are well. But when their eyes set on your sleeping face, cuddled against a hoodie they were wrangled into leaving behind, they understand why you so ardently asked. With a sigh reserved solely for you, they kick off their shoes before coming to the other side of the bed. Taj lifts the covers up from behind you before slipping between them, pressing themselves close to your back, caressing your arm. "You can release my clothing now, Koel. I am here."

N: N doesn't hesitate to flick open the bedroom door with a dramatic amount of force, announcing their return. "I'm home, my dear!" They call out with little regard for the late hour. Once you've groggily rubbed at your eyes, slightly confused, N catches sight of one of their favourite shirts on your person. "Oh, you've even prepared a welcoming home present for me," they tease, their smirk hiding the jump in their chest and the heat blossoming over their cheeks. "You shouldn't have. Will you give me the chance to unwrap it, my love?"

Umbra: It's rare enough for Umbra to be away for an extended period of time, but this trip seemed exceptionally long. With practised steps, umbra crawls up the side of your apartment building where they know the window will open, waiting, just in case. They crawl through, as silent as the night itself, their eyes adjusting to the darkness absent from the moonlight. Their eyes rest on you, drinking in the details.

Then, they spot their leather jacket curled into your arms. At first, they are confused. Their jacket is rough, sharp in places, with rough edges, much like them. Yet, you hold it close, tightly, as if afraid it would vanish into smoke. A tiny, melancholic smile tugs at the corner of Umbra's pale pink lips because this is so much like you-- holding on tight despite the bruises because you have chosen to love the imperfections.

Umbra kneels beside you, placing a cold, pale hand over yours. "I am home, MC. I came back, just like I promised."

(Sorry this took a while to get to. I hope it was okay :))

[midnight-bay-if]

On the fake dating lets say the Ros and Mc are dating. But let's say Mc is with someone who not an Ro for the mission. 🫣 how would the Ros feel and act to knowing they have to watch or whatever? That Mc is with someone else?

(I hope this is okay! Sorry it took so long!)

S: S barely bats an eye. You're on a mission, after all, and they trust you. They trust the relationship you have built together. And when you return, they will congratulate you on a mission well done in any way you wish.

Rain: Rain finds it somewhat amusing. Every time the person makes some casual flirtatious remark or places their hand on you in a familiar fashion, Rain marks the attempt out of 10 on how much they know you will like or dislike it.

Taj: Taj is seething. Every time the person's hand rests on the base of your back or their lips inch close to your ear to whisper something close and intimate, Taj digs their nails deep into their skin. Their tail swishes almost violently as they glare from the rafters. Better for them to be out of site because there is no chance their anger wouldn't be noticeable to their mark. And even if Taj is pissed, they don't want to do anything that could possibly put you in jeopardy.

Expect them to be very annoying when you are finished, though.

N: N becomes insufferable. Every time a hand begins to wander, or you giggle a little too long at a "joke", you hear a snide remark inside your head. "I don't think it was that funny, my dear. Careful now. Or someone might suspect", or "Do they realise where their hand is right now? Would you like me to remind them? I promise I'll be gentle."

Good luck in drowning them out.

Umbra: Umbra's emotions ball up inside them in a messy knot until it becomes impossible for them to pull on the strand of one without tangling with another. They trust you, but they do not trust them. They love your smile but hate watching you smile for another. It's an ugly mask it creates on their face. Still, they will wear it. People should see just how unsightly they can be. Especially the person pawing at your back.

[midnight-bay-if]

What would the ro’s do if mc went up and bit there shoulder playfully

S: S arches their brow inquisitively, not flinching at all from the bite. "Attempting to mark your territory, MC?" They ask with a devilish glint in their eye. "Well, then. It's my turn."

Rain: "Ouch!" Rain yelps, rubbing the spot. "What did I do?" Rain drinks in your impish expression, and a slight smirk forms on theirs. "Oh, I see..." They say, getting their hands ready. "I will counter with a tickle attack! Muahaha!"

Taj: Taj barely reacts to the sting of your skin scraping against their skin, but before you can run away, they dart around and fling their arms across your waist to keep you in place. "Oh no, you don't," they whisper, a dangerous edge to their voice. "Two can play this game."

N: A slight whimper escapes at the pressure your teeth cause against their hot skin, a shiver running down their spin. "Mmm... do that again, my dear. I quite enjoyed it."

Umbra: The shock is enough to immobilise them, their limbs as still as statues. When they finally regain themselves, they turn to you in confusion. "Erm... if you are hungry, MC, I could make you a sandwich or order you something?"

[midnight-bay-if]

Hello!

Is N more comfortable in their Demon form?

If yes. What would be the reaction of N if MC say to them that they want to see the real N when they two are alone. Like that X-Man meme of "I prefer real you. I said, the real you. Perfection."

Crush and relationship stagge please.

(N does feel more comfortable in their demon form, yes, but they also recognise the disguise is a necessary part of blending in. Taj is much more stubborn in this regard and will not use one at all, much to S's chagrin.)

Crush stage: They don't believe you. They don't believe you know what you are really asking for or that you really know them at all. Demons are the creatures of nightmares, destruction, chaos... Nobody willingly invites that into their lives. Still, they have no qualms about reminding you of their monstrosity. Better you remember who you are dealing with now than later.

"Very well, my dear. I'll let you see me. Do try not to physically recoil. It will only hurt my feelings."

Relationship stage: They smile with soft eyes they save solely for you. They dispel the disguise without much hesitation, watching your eyes light up as horns unfurl and a pointy tail swirls around you. They watch as you run fingers down the bumps in their skin, not even flinching at the heat radiating off them.

Demons have pride in themselves, but rarely do they see it reflected in the eyes of another.

"See something you like?" They tease, still smiling. "I'm glad. I really am."

[midnight-bay-if]

also an angsty-ish ask if i may (crushing stage)

ROs' reactions/thoughts to overhearing Mc and friend talking, said friend is teasing Mc about them and RO, and Mc blurts out "There's nothing between us!", then, after a brief pause, in the saddest tone they ever heard from Mc, "Besides, RO deserves someone far better than I could ever be..."

S: They think it's ludicrous. How can it be possible you don't recognise how exceptionally wonderful you are? If anyone in this situationship is falling short, it's them. They fall short in a million different ways, but they've put the best foot forward because you're the kind of person who inspires.

Well, they can't let this misconception continue. They would much rather lay the cards out straight and lose than have never taken the risk.

They reveal themselves carefully, leaning against the door frame with a charming smile. "Forgive the intrusion, but I couldn't quite help but overhear..." Still smiling, they close the distance until they are close enough to grasp your hand in theirs, holding it up delicately to their lips as they press a chaste kiss to the palm of your hand. "It would seem I haven't been clear enough in my affections if there is still room to doubt whether there is anything going on between us. I will endeavour to correct this grievous error immediately. Dinner tonight?"

Rain: That last sentence hits Rain like a punch to the gut. It seems incomprehensible to them that you could ever believe you were anything less than perfect to them. But it comes down to this. You do feel that way, and that means Rain hasn't done enough to express everything about you they find so endearing.

This cannot continue.

Rain begins with a plan. Everything they have learned about you thus far is brought into action as they co-ordinate the perfect date. Do you have a favourite flower? Great, have a bouquet of them. Do you have a favourite meal? S will help Rain cook it. Or if you have a favourite spot, great, expect a romantic walk to it. Enjoy poetry? Well, Rain is awful at writing it, but they would give it a go for you.

They'll figure out a million ways to show you their feelings if that's what it takes.

Taj: Taj's ear twitches when they overhear that final sentence. They feel the underbelly of frustration beginning to bubble under the surface. How is it fair you get to decide on your own who is good enough for who? And what made you decide that?

Wait... is this their fault? Could their sharp edges have been catching after all? You never showed it on your face. Sometimes, Taj would even dig deeper with their cutting tongue simply to see you flinch. But you never did. Had you been bleeding this entire time?

Taj inhales sharply, digging their nails deep into their palms in a clenched fist. If they were braver, they would storm right into that room and tear up those self-flagellating thoughts of yours. But they aren't. They never have been.

N: It feels strange to N, to hear the words they have already long suspected to be true. Not the part about 'nothing going on between us' since they know that much is rubbish, but the latter part... Well, the lack of belief in oneself can manifest in all kinds of ways but sits so readily in a person's body language.

It is true N is a demon prince of Hael. Before their power was so egregiously ripped from them, they were a prized jewel often paraded amongst important individuals like a prized buck for breeding. Everyone wanted a piece, and they languished in the attention.

Yet, powerless and bruised, you coveted their attention still. The lack of power did not matter to you. Back home, N would be ridiculed for seeking affection from a mere human. But, inexplicably, they do seek it. It is them who are underserving of you.

Better they remember why they came here in the first place.

Umbra: They cannot abide this. They flinched when you said nothing was going on between the two of you. For a moment, Umbra was sure someone had slipped the sharp edge of a blade right between their ribs. It hurt.

Then, you continued, and the blade twisted. It doesn't compute. Theirs are hands that have wrought destruction and death, but it is you who thinks they are not enough? This has to be their failure. If they were more human, more alive, then they would know exactly how to assuage your concerns, to prove their devotion to you.

It isn't enough to be by your side anymore. They would rather fall at your feet begging for mercy as you dig your heel in than have you believe that you aren't enough.

(Phew, hope this is okay! Sorry, it took a minute.)

[midnight-bay-if]

how would the RO’s react to MC saying “you want to kiss/fck me so bad it makes you look stupid “ while smirking?

S: For a moment they are shocked into silence. Then, a hint of rouge manifests on their cheeks as they do their best to maintain their composure. “You have never been shy, MC.” They bend down until their lips are a hair's breadth away from your ear. “But I wonder if there is something I could do to make you blush.”

Rain: Rain tries to maintain some semblance of bravado, but the nervous twiddling of their fingers gives them away. "W-Well, I... erm, yes, actually. That seems accurate. So maybe we should."

Taj: Taj scoffs in disbelief. "One has to wonder where all your confidence comes from, Koel," they remark snarkily. They step close enough to you to dim the smirk ever so slightly. "Careful," they warn, a dangerous glint in their eye. "You couldn't handle me if you did have me; I like to bite."

N: N throws you a salacious smile, resting their head in their hand from where they sit on the couch. "Oh, you are so right, my dear. I've been dying to have you from the moment we met. So, let's cut to the chase, shall we?"

Umbra: Their heart hammers in their chest, their hands turning clammy. "I... I..." They trail off, their eyes set firmly on your lips. Then, they gulp. Face burning, they bury it in their hands before quickly turning on their heel. "Excuse me, MC. I-I have something to do. Over here."

[midnight-bay-if]

Nsfw maybe?

Let's say Mc (short/tiny) wears Ro's shirt/hoodie. With nothing underneath...Also lets say it's after Mc got out of the shower and the Ro's just came home.

So how would the Ro's act/feel?

🤭👉👈

(Hello! I answered a similar ask quite some time ago so I'll link that here. But it also didn't specify the MC not wearing anything underneath so this might be a bit raunchier, haha.)

S: As always, the first thing S does after coming home from a long work day is look for you. They enter the bedroom with a greeting resting on their tongue, but before they can utter a word, they see you. You are sat at their desk, wearing a shirt they know to be there, your leg propped up temptingly onto their desk, revealing the bare skin underneath.

S gulps. Loudly.

They attempt to cover up their flustered state with a slight cough and a smirk. "Stay right where you are, darling," they command, slowly unfastening their tie or shirt. "There are consequences for intruding on one's space. My desk is off limits; now we will have to test its endurability."

Rain: Rain trips over their feet as soon as they spot you. You are laid on the couch, temptingly buried in their favourite shirt. They instinctively take a step forward, bewitched by your allure. Once they step closer, however, they soon realise you are wearing nothing but their shirt. Their heart picks up the pace.

"MC... You have no idea the effect you are having on me right now." With some gusto, Rain jumps on the couch, barely catching their weight enough not to crush you. Their hands caress your sensitive skin, and you both start giggling as you wrestle for tickling dominance.

Taj: Taj comes home grumbling. So, nothing new. But they are so busy bitching about what S or Rain had decided to do that day they don't immediately notice... Then, they do. They whirl their head around when they catch the smooth expanse of bare skin in their periphery.

At first, they pretend not to care. So, you're a thief? Big deal. Do they like the way their hoodie is so oversized on you it almost looks like you are being embraced by them? A little. Are they going to let you know how fast their heart is beating right now? Absolutely not.

Instead, they wait for you to drop your guard. When you are no longer paying attention and looking a little crestfallen, they sneak up behind you. "I'll need this back, my little thief," they whisper directly into your ear.

Sensing an opportunity, you slowly pull at the hem as if readying yourself to remove the garment and return it, but slowly reveal the bare skin beneath instead.

Taj inhales sharply.

"Oh no you don't," they say, stilling your hand with theirs. "Not here. I'm not having Rain blunder in here and spoil this. Upstairs. Now."

N: N can sense the tension before they enter the room. They half expect to me chastised for some small slight as soon as they walk in. But that isn't what greets them. Instead, you are laid out, hair still wet, wearing nothing but one of their very translucent shirts.

"Oh, so it's that kind of tension," they whisper to themselves, a smirk slowly spreading across their lips. "Oh, look," they pantomime, gesturing exaggeratedly with their hands towards you. "A present left for me to unwrap. You shouldn't have, my dear."

They move closer, leaning over you with a hand on either side, trapping you between their arms. "But I am rather glad you did. Now, I'm going to take my very sweet time unwrapping you."

Umbra: It is rare enough for Umbra to be away from you long enough to conjure up any kind of surprise, but they have been getting better at offering you your space. But they are keen to be back at your side.

They fling open the front door, quickly scouring the room for you. "MC? I'm home!" You are waiting for them, leaning against the bedroom door frame, wearing their navy shirt and little else. When Umbra catches sight of you, smiling at them in a particularly demure way, their breath catches.

They stand frozen, their heart hammering in their chest quicker than they think it ever has. "MC... Can we go into the bedroom, now? I wish to create a new memory with you."