#near needs a hug

[cool-thymus]

Today i finished watching Naruto! And i found this gem in the ending credits: one pure team Minato hug! 💜🧡🩶

[a-dauntless-daffodil]

@val-the-bun hits me with a padded sledge hammer in the feels with the wereharpy vaggie au thanks for that once again i inflict this ask on others as a coping mechanism >:C

val-the-bun asked:

Charlie can see the claw marks on Vaggie's side, golden blood, *angel* blood, dripping onto the floor... Her grip on the spear is shaking.

'Did you ever believe in me, Vaggie?'

Another shriek, weak and *crackling* is her only answer. Vaggie's talons fall, and she almost *leans* into the point of the spear. She can see the tears streaming down Vaggie's face.

The spear slips out of charlie's fingers. Her hands are shaking too much. She grabs Vaggie by the feathers, glaring up at her.

'Do you?'

Vaggie is *shaking*, taloned hands curling around Charlie with a *whimper*.

Charlie is clinging to Vaggie as the monster *buckles* around her. She lets out another whimper, nuzzling against her face. She cant keep her tail from curling around Vaggie, burying her face in those feathers she knows so well.

'Oh Vaggie...'

I am picturing a lot of comfort after this

Like just

Vaggie all bandaged up

And just curled up with Charlie in the lobby. And she's just gently brushing Vaggie's feathers.

'So uh, does anybody wanna explain why Vaggie Tales is doin' a heavenly werebird in hell?'

'I... I dont know. Maybe this is just... Maybe this is what happens if an exorcist stays down here?'

Eventually Vaggie starts changing back. Which, ya know, yay!

Aaaand also oh shit. Because uh. *She kind of shredded her outfit in her transformation*. And her spare one is back in what's left of the room she was holed up in.

'Oh, fuck. Uh. Blanket? Quick? PLEASE???'

Queue a very embarrassed and kind of ashamed Vaggie curled up in a *huge* blanket. But...Charlie's holding her. Vaggie may not think she deserves it, but she is.

'Please tell me I didnt try to eat anybody...'

'Oh, no my dear. Shreading on the other hand!'

Charlie gives Alastor a glare that surprisingly shuts him up. Meanwhile Vaggie has basically disappeared into the blanket, save the barest hint of white hair.

'Dont worry about it Vags, your aim was pretty shit.'

Queue a jab in the side from Husk.

'What! It's true! She missed!'

(Aaand that's all i got for this for now. Might do more in the future. Might write a fic. Who knows!)

[mugloversonly]

What Happens Afterwards?

I read this post by @acowardinmordor and was obsessed with what happened next. Written with their blessing.

also on AO3

tw: overdose, drugs, near death experience, mentions of HIV

Summary:

Famous Eddie doesn't touch drugs...too bad Steve does After Steve ODs at a Corroded Coffin concert, he wakes up in the hospital.

Steve woke up groggy and confused. Is he in a hospital? Suddenly the night rushed back to him. He did a line, borrowed a needle. He’d meant to go back to the dressing room, but he hit the deck before he could. Shit!

He shot up and frantically looked around, hoping beyond all hope that he was alone. Luck was not on his side though, because Eddie was asleep in the hospital chair next to him. Steve took a long look at the love of his life. His eyes were red and puffy with deep bags. His hair was a tangled mess as if he’d been yanking on it. And his clothes were rumpled as if he hadn’t changed them in days.

Steve sighed. He really didn’t want to have this confrontation right now. Before that thought could even leave his brain, Eddie opened his eyes and met Steve’s. The pools of chocolate were filled with a myriad of emotions. He leaned forward and took Steve’s hand.

“Hey, Stevie. How’re you feeling?” He asked softly as he reached over and pressed the nurse call button. Steve was confused by the softness, but he wasn’t going to complain.

“How did I get here?” He asked instead, dropping his gaze.

“You were brought in as a John Doe after the concert baby.” He whispered, his voice thick. “They said you overdosed.” He didn’t sound angry, Steve would have preferred that. Instead he sounded guilty. Steve forced himself to look and felt bile rise up at the expression on Eddie’s face. “I’m sorry baby.” Eddie said. “I’m so sorry.” Tears ran down his already tear coated cheeks. Steve expected yelling, berating, and ultimatum. Anything but an apology.

“Sorry for what, Eds?” He asked. “You didn’t do anything.” That turned out to be the wrong thing to say as it turns Eddie’s cries into sobs. Something sour built a home in Steve’s chest.

“Exactly! I didn’t do anything!” He said emphatically, gesturing wildly. “You were missing! And i didn’t do anything! I let everyone else handle it while i panicked. I still played the show. I didn’t follow my gut and looked who the junkies were that night!” Tears streamed down his face, but the words rattled something in him.

“How long have I been here?” Steve asked hesitantly. Eddie took a stuttered breath.

“Five days. You’ve been here for five days. You were missing for over 24 hours.” He bit his lip trying to stifle more tears.

Steve was floored. Five days?! Wait…missing? “Oh, baby.” Steve said, mournfully running the hand not hooked up to anything along Eddie’s cheek. He melted into the contact and put his hand over Steve’s. “I’m sorry for putting this much stress on you.”

“For a minute there, I’d thought it came back.” Steve knew exactly what Eddie meant. The upside down. “But when I found out you ODed…I almost wish it had.” Eddie admitted. “This is all my fault.” He whispered unable to hold the tears back any longer.

Steve felt like he’d been on top of the world from what he could remember of the high, and he thought about chasing that rabbit. But the look in Eddie’s eyes, the deep well of pure devastation and guilt swirled together, made Steve pause. He couldn’t do this to Eddie again. “This isn’t on you.” Steve insisted. “I told you I quit. You had no reason to assume I’d be in that bathroom.” Eddie just shook his head.

“If I hadn’t forced you on the road, you never would’ve had access to this kind of hardcore shit in the first place. If I spent more time with you, if I never left you alone, you wouldn’t have felt the need to do this.” Eddie trembled. “I should have protected you better, I knew what that shit could do, I’m so sorry baby.” Steve knew then that there wasn’t anything he could say. Eddie would blame himself for this until the end of time.

That more than anything else, broke Steve down. “I’m sorry, love.” His voice trembled. “I shouldn’t have lied. I just didn’t want you to worry.” He flipped his hand up in offer. Eddie immediately filled it with his. He squeezed it as he continued. “You had so much to worry about, I didn’t want to be another. But I should have known that you’d worry anyway.” Steve looked away, ashamed.

“Baby…” he was cut off as a doctor came in.

“Well, Mr. Harrington. You’re lucky to be alive. The cocktail of drugs you took was extreme.” The doctor said.

“What do you mean?” Eddie asked.

“The heroine appeared to be laced with meth. And the line he did was cocaine and ecstasy.” The doctor said calmly. Eddie gasped a shuddering breath and his hands shook in Steve’s grasp.

“I didn’t know the heroine was laced.” He said. “It wasn’t my needle.” The regret was finally showing up. At this the doctor’s eyebrows rose to his hairline. Eddie yanked his hands away and covered his mouth.

“I’ll send in a nurse to grab some blood so we can run some tests.” He said. “In the meantime Mr. Munson, I recommend limited physical contact.” He directed that to Eddie with a look of sympathy. He nodded and the doctor took his leave. Tears sprang to Eddie’s eyes and ran down his face.

“You shared needles, Stevie?” He asked in shock, his voice quiet. His fear was clear on his face. “Have you been…doing other things for the drugs?” Steve had to come clean.

“I’d do pretty much anything for them.” He admitted.

Eddie stood up quickly and made to leave the room. “I’m going to go let Robin know you’re awake.” He dashed out before Steve could say anything else.

He fucked up. He always felt guilty after the high wore off, but this time it was horrible. He’s in the hospital, after disappearing for over a day. He should have been more careful. He knew sharing needles wasn’t the best plan, but at the time the high was worth it. But the look of betrayal, sadness, and the tiniest glimmer of disgust on Eddie’s face just now, was enough to make him never want to touch another pill. Sleep snuck up on him and he prayed that Eddie would be back when he woke up again.

His prayer went unanswered. The next time he woke up, it was Robin by his bedside. She was staring at the TV but she wasn’t really watching it. “Hey Robs” he said. She whipped her head around so fast he wouldn’t be surprised if it popped off.

“Steve! You’re awake!” She exclaimed. The smile on her face fell quickly. “You’re an idiot. If you weren’t in this hospital bed right now, I’d smack you.” He shrunk down in the face of her ire. “What were you thinking?!” She shrieked.

“I didn’t think it’d be that bad.” He admitted. The fire in her eyes could set the arctic ablaze.

“Not that bad? Not that bad?! You ODed at Eddie’s concert.” She began counting on her fingers. “You lied about being clean. You shared needles with some random junkies!” On the last point she threw her hands up. “How often have you done that? Don’t lie to me Steve.” Her eyes narrowed.

“Every once in a while when I get the itch for it. Maybe once every few months or so.” He admitted grimly. Robin’s eyes narrowed.

“So however many months you’ve been doing this, you’ve been sharing needles?” She clarified. At Steve’s nod she sprang up and paced the room. “Every time?”

“Not every time, but not rarely either.” He said as guilt started to creep into his stomach. She ran her hands into her hair and yanked on it softly.

“Have you been getting tested at least?” She asked.

“I’m not cheating on Eddie, Robin!” Steve yelled, hurt that she’d even imply that. She stopped pacing and turned to him.

“Okay, first. I didn’t say that. Second, your word has no credibility right now. I know you wouldn’t, dingus. That’s not why I was asking.” She grabbed his hand. Before she could continue, a nurse came in.

“Oh good! You’re awake. I’m going to be taking some blood okay?” She asked but really was demanding. She glared at Steve as he held out his arm for her.

“Is everything okay?” Robin asked. The nurse turned to her and gave a small smile before glaring again at Steve.

“With the patient, everything is looking like it’s returning to normal.” She snapped the tourniquet into place but when Steve flinched she didn’t look remorseful. She drew a few vials of blood, stuck a bandaid on, and pulled off the tourniquet all in silence. As she got cleaned up to leave, she finally spoke. “Look kid, it’s not my place. But that boy out there? I can take a guess as to what your relationship is with him.” She flashed a tiny pride flag pinned inside her scrubs. “He cares about you so much. He was beside himself when he came in and saw you, he had you moved to this room, he asked us if there was any kind of experimental treatment, anything to help you.” She turned that glare on him again. “He loves you to the ends of the earth and he will never leave you. You better clean up your act to be worthy of that devotion, because make no mistake. He would let you drain his veins and apologize for not bleeding out faster.” She stalked over to Robin and handed her a stack of papers. She jabbed a finger in his face, “don’t you dare break up with him in a misguided attempt to save him from you. You clean up your act. If not for yourself, then for him.“ With that she stomped out of the room and practically slammed the door behind her. For a moment neither of them said a word. Steve was filled with regret and Robin was a bit smug. She looked down at the stack of papers. Rehab clinics.

“Should we pick one?” Robin asked.

“I think I want to do it with Eddie.” Steve replied. “The nurse was right. And so were you. I’ve taken him for granted and my word means shit right now. I want to prove to him that I want to get clean.” Robin hesitated.

“Do you?” She asked. “You don’t seem particularly regretful about the actual drugs.” Her tone was soft even though her words were harsh.

“I do!” Steve exclaimed. “You didn’t see the look on Eddie’s face, Robbie. He was devastated and blamed himself for all of it. When I told him I’d do anything for the drugs he got up and left. I don’t think he’s coming back in.” He trailed off into a whisper. Robin took hold of his hand.

“Stevie, he’s right outside.” She said. At Steve’s confused look she continued. “He’s sitting on a bench right next to the door. He wanted to come back in, but I asked him to let me talk to you alone.”

“Why?” Steve asked. Robin’s eyes hardened.

“Because what I’m about to say, he wouldn’t like, but as your best friend I have to tell you hard truths. And Eddie's my best friend too so I have to protect him.” She took a deep breath. “You deserved his love once Steve. I truly believe that. But right now, his love for you is hurting him. And the only one who can fix it? Is you. He hasn’t slept or eaten practically at all since you disappeared.” Steve flinched at the word disappeared. “When he called me he was sobbing so hard I thought you died Steve.” Her eyes watered. “He kept repeating ‘it’s all my fault. I did this to him’ and Jeff had to take the phone to explain what was going on. When I got here, you were still touch and go. You died on the way here, Steve. They had to resuscitate you. The sound he made when the doctors told him that…” she shuddered. “I felt his heart shatter. The nurse is right. He will forgive you and he won’t ever stop loving you and he won’t ever leave you.” Her eyes got intense again. “So you need to promise me. Promise me! That you’ll take care of yourself. Because I don’t think I could survive watching him wither away if you leave him.” The emphasis she put on leave tore Steve apart. She didn’t mean break up with him. She meant leave him. “You don’t deserve his devotion. Not after you lied to him for months. But you have it. So now, you need to cherish it. Got it?” She asked. Steve could only nod as the dam finally broke. They held each other’s hands as they cried together.

~~~

“Can you get Eddie? Please.” He asked after his eyes dried up. Robin nodded and dashed out the door, waving Eddie inside.

Steve’s heart broke at the sight of him. He looked exhausted and his eyes were red rimmed as if he’d been crying for hours. Steve held a hand out to him and Eddie rushed to take it. Steve slid over in the hospital bed, yanking Eddie in after him. He curled around him and held him close being mindful of the wires in his hand as he draped it on Eddie’s chest. Eddie took a deep breath but Steve could feel the anxiety still thrumming under his skin. “I’m sorry, love.” Steve whispered. “I shouldn’t have lied.” He halted when he heard the sniffles. He sat up, peering at Eddie. His cheeks were wet again and Steve reached up to wipe them clean.

“Stevie, I have to ask…” he began. “And I hate to even think it. But…” he paused. “Did you…when you said you’d do anything for the drugs. Did you sleep with people for them?” He finally spit out. Steve wanted to be mad. He wanted to hiss and spit and rage at the accusation. But he knew that wasn’t fair to Eddie. He was within his rights to ask.

“No my love.” Steve promised. “Never.” Eddie nodded and sighed with relief. “I don’t know how much my word is worth right now.” He admitted. Eddie pressed a finger to his lips.

“I trust you.” He said. Those three words broke Steve. How could Eddie trust his word after everything? He asked him as much. Eddie just smiled softly. “I trust you because I want to. That’s all there is to it.”

“I’m sorry for everything.” Steve repeated desperately.

“I forgive you.” Eddie promised. “Now, let’s forget the past for a minute and focus on the future.” Eddie said. Steve looked over his shoulder to the door to the room and saw Robin and the Coffin boys. The boys were glaring at Steve but he knew it was because he hurt their friend.

Steve grabbed the rehab brochures and the two went over them until they found one that had a branch in DC. “I don’t want you to cancel the tour Eddie.” Steve was adamant. He ruined enough of the tour so far and he wouldn’t be the reason it ended. At least in DC he’d be close to Robin who would keep him in line. She promised Eddie daily updates (real updates) once Steve got out until the end of the tour. Eddie finally agreed after the boys convinced him he’d need the distraction so he wouldn’t be pacing around the house all day.

Steve leaned up to kiss him, but Eddie pulled away. The regret in his eyes was almost enough to soothe the hurt. “Not yet Stevie, okay?” He asked. Steve nodded but his head tilted in confusion. “Not until the blood tests come back.” He explained. Suddenly, Steve understood. He put himself at risk and Eddie too. The virus going around was deadly and Steve had been careless. Playing russian roulette with not only his life, but Eddie’s too and by extension the band’s.

The shame that filled him was so intense he reached over and retched into the nearby bed pan. Robin ran over with a trashcan and he kept heaving. Eddie rubbed his back as he emptied his body. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I…” he cut off by dry heaving. He finally understood why Eddie ran from the room earlier and why the nurse glared at him. He’s a monster. He put the love of his life at risk of contracting a deadly disease just so he could get a fix. What the hell was wrong with him?

When he was finally done, he was exhausted. “Sleep baby.” Eddie whispered. Steve clutched tight to his hand.

“Will you stay with me?” He asked. As his eyes drifted shut.

“Forever.” Eddie whispered as Steve floated off into a dreamless sleep. His last thought was that he needed to prove he was worth forever.

~~~

The next time he woke up, Eddie was still there. Asleep curled up beside him. But in the chair next to him was someone he hoped not to see. Wayne. Their eyes met and he didn’t say anything, he just raised his right eyebrow and Steve folded. He apologized for letting Wayne down, for hurting Eddie, for lying about it. He begged Wayne’s forgiveness, but the man didn’t respond. His gaze flickered to his sleeping nephew and softened.

“You listen to me boy.” Wayne said. “My nephew is a gentle soul, quick to forgive and let things go. You should know that based on how he was after that spring break.” They both shivered at the memory. “So, he’s not going to want to hold you accountable. He’d rather just move on and take your word for it. But lucky for him, and not so lucky for you, I will be holding you accountable.” He leaned in. “I love you like one of my own Steve, I really do. But I love my brother too and he ain’t seen Eddie since they locked him up. Eddie forgave him within days, trusted him. I learned then, that if Eddie loved someone, he’d forgive pretty much everything just to keep them around. So I’ll tell you the same thing I told Al. Eddie is my boy, first. And I will protect him from anything that will hurt him, even if it’s himself. So I’ll be holding you accountable. You’re going to rehab?” Wayne asked. At Steve’s nod and explanation of where, he continued. “You’re going to give the rehab my information as someone who they can talk to. I’m going to call to check up whenever I see fit. Got it?”

“Yes sir” Steve replied. The nurse from before knocked and opened the door quietly. She paused as she saw Eddie curled up in the bed next to Steve. She gently shook him awake.

“Mr. Munson? We have both of your blood tests back.” At this Eddie was wide awake.

“You got some blood tests done Ed?” Wayne asked.

“Yeah, just um…just in case you know?” He trailed off not making eye contact with his uncle.

“Good news or bad news first?” She asked.

“Bad news first, always.” Eddie and Steve replied in tandem. They shared a private smile.

“Bad news, Steve you have moderate kidney damage. It won’t take much more to send them into failure.” She said with hard eyes.

“And the good news?” Wayne spoke up.

“Good news, you both are negative for any STDs. Including HIV.” The three men breathed a huge sigh of relief. The nurse turned to Steve. “You got lucky kid. Don’t forget that.” Steve assured her he wouldn’t and she left with a nod. He couldn’t believe he’d been so reckless. He turned to Eddie and was immediately pulled into a soft kiss.

~~~

“They said you’ll be discharged soon.” Robin said later. “Then what?” It was just the two of them.

“Then, Eddie drops me off at rehab and I get help. I stay clean. I do everything to be worthy of him.” He declared. Robin nodded her approval. Eddie came back from the hotel with all of their things packed away in a rental car. He slid into bed next to Steve.

“Hey, baby. You ready?” He asked. Steve nodded and they all left the hospital. The three of them piled into the car and drove Robin to the airport. She was going to fly back to give the boys some time alone. She hugged Steve and then Eddie. She whispered something in the his ear that had him tearing up. She went into the airport with a promise to call Wayne if she ran into any trouble.

Then it was just the two of them. They spent the first hour or so making idle small talk before the curiosity got the best of him. “What did Robin say to you?” He asked.

“Nothing important.” Eddie answered far too quickly.

“Oh, come on. You can tell me.” He knew he was being annoying but he didn’t want to think about what was awaiting him at the end of the ride. Eddie sighed, he never could keep something from Steve.

“She said if I could forgive you, I should forgive myself.” He admitted.

“You still blame yourself, love?” Steve asked. Eddie bit his lip as he nodded.

“If I hadn’t dragged you on tour, you never would have found that stuff.” Steve couldn’t let this stand. He knew he had to finally come clean.

“I was already doing it.” At Eddie’s questioning noise he continued. “As soon as we got to LA, I was looking for it. I did it at those events because it was free from someone else's supply.” He took a breath and glanced at Eddie before he admitted the next bit. “I didn’t get into this shit because I was on tour with you. I wanted to go on tour because I didn’t want to be away from you. That it would be way easier to get my hands on shit, just sweetened the deal.”

Eddie was quiet for a while after that. Steve glanced over and saw his cheeks were wet. He’d made him cry again. “So, you didn’t start them because of me?” He whispered.

“No love. And to be clear, even if I started on tour, it still wouldn’t have been your fault. You didn’t hold me down and force a line up my nose okay?” He reached out and wiped away a tear. “This was my choice. Just like going to rehab is my choice. If I didn’t really want to go, I wouldn’t.” His conviction was clear. Eddie pulled to the side of the road to kiss Steve softly before they drove the rest of the way in comfortable conversation.

They arrived at the rehab center and Eddie walked him inside. He checked in, Eddie handed over his credit card, Steve handed it right back and handed his over. The attendant smiled and swiped Steve’s card giving the boys a moment alone. They held each other close and kissed not caring at the moment who saw them. “I love you, baby. Don't forget okay?” Eddie whispered leaning his forehead to Steve’s.

“I know, love. I love you too. More than life.” He replied. He gave a final kiss to Eddie’s lips and followed the attendant into the center. He was determined to come out a new man.

~~~

Six grueling weeks later, Steve was out. He had a sponsor and group therapy sessions. Waiting to pick him up was Robin. Eddie was on the last few weeks of the tour. They had to extend it a bit to cover for Steve’s hospital stay. Robin gave him a long hug. “Ready to bust out?” She asked and they both got into the car. He lasted barely five minutes.

“How is he?” Steve and Eddie didn’t speak at all during his rehab. The center thought Eddie being on the road would be triggering to Steve. And to be frank, Wayne thought Eddie needed to distance himself from the process for a bit. Wayne and Robin had kept them both informed on the other.

“He’s okay. I mean…he misses you terribly, but he’s been coping on tour.” Robin said. Thankfully the drive wasn’t very long. Steve wanted to be in a familiar place, even if life outside of rehab was scary. They pulled up to Robin’s building and Steve stepped in after her.

There was a loud pop and confetti raining down on him. “Welcome home Steve!” Came several voices he was not expecting. The entire party was here. Wayne, Hopper, and Joyce too. But what brought him to tears was the sight to his left. Eddie was there, holding his arms open. Steve ran into them, nearly knocking them both to the ground.

“I thought your tour didn’t end for a few more weeks?” He asked in between kisses.

“I lied about the end date to surprise you.” He admitted holding Steve close. “Are you surprised?”

“Very! A good surprised!” The two pulled apart so everyone else could greet Steve. Eddie didn’t go far, not letting go of Steve’s hand the entire time. He’d felt better in rehab once the withdrawals subsided. More clear headed, more aware. But he didn’t feel completely healed. Feeling the warmth of Eddie’s hand in his, Steve felt hopeful for the future. As he made eye contact with the man again, Steve silently promised to stay clean. Not for just Eddie. But for himself too.

~~~

He skipped the next tour as recommended by his therapist. The two men decided it would be better if he wasn't alone, so Wayne stayed with him. He'd been retired from the plant and wanted to move out to LA with Eddie anyway.

He and Eddie had a hard time, but they make due with calls and letters. On one memorable occasion Steve sent a racy Polaroid. That night, Eddie called already worked up and they had a wonderful time. The reunion was so sweet. They were locked in their bedroom for days, coming out only for food and water. The rest of their friends knew better than to come visit until the love birds made the first move.

The band wrote a new album and started a nonprofit for drug addicts. It helped those who couldn't afford to get clean and see therapists, providing them with clean needles and clean drugs to help ween off them. Steve didn't shy away from his overdose, or the affect it had on those around him and he encouraged the others not to either. Eddie did several interviews on how helpless he felt when his "best friend" was taken to the hospital as a John Doe. This spurred the nonprofit to add resources for loved ones of addicts too.

Steve had been sober for three years when he went on tour with the band again. For real this time. He got clean and he stayed clean. When he was offered something at a party, he couldn't say he wasn't tempted. But he'd look over to see his love laughing and knew he'd do anything to keep that sound in the world. He never wanted to jeopardize Eddie's happiness again and he finally accepted he was his happiness.

And the next time the band played The Garden, Steve was on the sidelines cheering for Eddie and the band. He made sure Eddie could always see him and know he was safe. That look of guilt and devastation he saw in the hospital never returned to Eddie's face and Steve was determined to keep it that way.

[snailasleep]

why does vash carry cigarettes if he never smokes?

extra comic

if it makes anyone feel better heres what i named some of the layers for this comic

also panels i liked!

see you, vash! until next time!

[wexhappyxfew]

Shannon I took you so seriously when you said readers could request as many as we wanted, so please ignore me if this is too much lol

⋆ “try and get some sleep. i’ll stay right here- i won’t let anything happen to you, i swear.”

For Judie and Rosie?? I just feel like it’s perfect for them. 🩷

This is my last one I promise

-☀️

SUNSHINE ANON!!!! you sent this in ages ago i fear, but i am so beyond excited to *finally* get to it! for any readers....remember that angsty judy x rosie piece i mentioned a week or two back? HERE WE ARE!!!!! the focuses on rosie here and judy's 'home' are probably some of my favorites aspects here - it speaks to their characters here in a *character-study-esc* way that i felt was really pleasing to read. please enjoy! thank you again sunshine anon (and i fully appreciate and love the prompt requests you sent in and could not help myself haha!!!!!) thank you again!

the world went quiet

(a/n): judy x rosie girlies HIIIIII. get ready for the angst train because we enter with judy experiencing the emotions after hearing that annie, bessie, kennedy and margie went down. for judy, i imagine it's like hearing about your sisters - especially after captain faulkner - and with emotions a young 21-year-old feels she can't handle. and rosie really helps her to feel okay with those. and that's why i just love the way they match each other here - like they fill in each other's missing parts :) [brb sobbing] please enjoy! <3

Numb.

The first feeling Judy was able to decipher out of the thousands of emotions tormenting her body right now.

Gone. That four letter word that found it's way to haunt her and torture her and tear her apart without fail; all the time. She thought after losing Birdie it'd be different.

Now, it was hard to breathe, to walk all the sudden.

The news was fresh, like a wound that wouldn't heal, like a door that wouldn't budge. And now, Lieutenant Bradshaw, Carlisle, Farley and Harlowe were all gone.

Gone.

She squeezed her eyes shut. It was a dream, she tried to tell herself, it's a dream! And without fail, it never was. Because over here, where they were now, in time, in war, it never was a dream. Nothing ever was.

After Lieutenant Montez had come in to deliver the news, the barracks were far too suffocating for Judy to cope. There were quiet tears and sobbing, people trying to put on the brave face so others didn't have to worry or suffer their emotions like some had to. And it was almost too much - knowing just that morning, Annie, Bessie, Kenny and Margie had all woken up there in that hut and thought that they'd be coming back.

So, she did what she did best when she had to deal with her emotions.

She hid.

The cockpit of Rosie's Riveters was the most apt place to curl into a ball and get her emotions under control. The window of the copilot seat provided the dreary picturesque view of the setting sun, the moody oranges and blues dancing across the horizon. Her head was pounding from crying, from the tears, from the ache of her entire body. Her stiff A2 was wrapped around her body, knees pulled up to her chest, dried tears left in residue on her cheeks and her eyes heavy.

It was embarrassing, she had thought to herself as she had stormed away from the huts and from the women, to be a blubbering mess.

But how many more times would this have to happen? People leaving, going, gone. Over and over, never to return.

How many more times would her fragile heart have to feel like this? It was embarrassing because she saw how the others would handle things - she never saw them cry, she never saw them break - and yet, she couldn't handle it. The loss, the pure feeling of it all. The grief. She couldn't take it.

And the only thing she could do was find solace in one of those B-17s, the only reason they were even able to do these runs in the first place.

From somewhere inside the stoic plane, she heard the metal creaking of someone jumping up inside. Someone had seen her retreat, had seen her make the run for it. Someone had seen her and God, what would the sight be when they came upon her. Judy tried not to be like this, she tried to hold her own. Doing so much and she broke.

Hastily, she reached up to brush at her red, tear-dried cheeks, smoothing a hand back over her head to wrangle the wind-swept hair on her head, but before she could even begin to think that she could possibly redo her braids, she heard footsteps sound against the metal of the plane and at the entrance of the cockpit.

Deep-down, she figured Lieutenant Montez had seen her run and had come looking for her - probably to try and get her to eat something or get some rest; lie down and close your eyes for a bit, honey, she'd probably say. Like a mother, like a sister.

"I'm sorry, Monty, I'm not hungry." Judy managed out shakily. She heard a small breath escape from the person.

"It's Lieutenant Rosenthal, Judy." the voice said. Judy's eyes widened as she shifted, glancing over her shoulder, only to find him standing there on the one-step entrance into the cockpit, arm leaned up against the pilot's seat, a blanket in his hands, and the quiet look on his face that told her everything she had needed to know.

The instance Judy found herself looking at him, her eyes began to well with tears. And then her face crumbled and her body didn't seem to care who was around, as the tears began to streak down her cheeks.

"I'm sorry." she managed out quickly, shaking her head and looking back up at him, "I just….couldn't stay in the hut. After….the news…." Her voice came out croaky, like a frog almost and the second she had started to think about them again, she felt a cry crawl out of her mouth.

"I'm sorry, Judy." Rosie said quietly, "I had just heard…." She looked up at him and tried to smile in thanks, but in became a watery whimper instead. Rosie was quiet for a moment as they watched each other.

"Lieutenant Montez told me." he said, his voice light as a feather, "I'm sorry." She sniffled and nodded.

"Thanks, Rosie." she managed out, before biting back her wobbling lip and staring forward towards the window of the cockpit, before her eyes welled with more tears, "I'm so sorry." And there she was, the cry from her lips like that of a wounded animal, soft and bleak. It hurt. Something like this had never hurt so much. It ached; deep down inside her, dark and harrowing.

"Here, Jude," Rosie said quietly, stepping up inside the cockpit, his large form crouching, looking rather cramped in the space between the pilot and copilots' seat, wrapping that warm blanket around her shoulders, "it's okay." He wrapped his arm around her then, rubbing his hand up and down her arm gently, back and forth, over and over.

And suddenly, the world went quiet.

The voices torturing her mind, the thoughts pulling away at every breaking edge. Everything went quiet. And he was so warm. Shuddering breaths left her lips as she shut her eyes, pressed into the side of his A2, tucked underneath his arms, listening to the low beat of his heart.

For a moment, it didn't feel like she was in this nightmare - instead she thought about home. Her special place at home, in the open field up on the hill her and her siblings would race up. The long grasses tickling their faces, their bare feet and their hands, the daises that grew in bountiful bunches swinging in the early afternoon sunlight, the hymn of the birds and the bugs lingering in all the eves of the trees and the little river that ran down the hillside.

The feeling of sun-kissed skin and that blue dress she always wore, the sound of her siblings' laughter as they'd lay in the trees, tripping over the roots, jumping off the rocks, splashing in the tidal pools with the mud and the large-leaf plants that overgrew.

The smell of fresh rain having fallen, leaving dew before on every bit of upturned root, leaf and tree. The sound of her mother's voice in the kitchen, singing sweetly and softly a Polish song that she grew up on, as she rolled dough and cut it into pieces.

The pure joy that the kitchen was always filled with, despite what little they had. Her father coming back from town each day, with a few more animals than they'd had the day before, maybe a goat, or a chicken - getting their cow the one day was like striking gold! She remembered what it felt like to sit at the kitchen table and eat with her family every day, cleaning off the dishes with her mother, drying them and placing them in their wooden cabinets. The way their front porch faced the setting sun and she'd sit and dream and dream about her future.

She had been so happy. She had been so care-free. She had been so different from the person she had wanted to be. But she was who she was, now, in this moment.

Cracking her eyes open, she found that she was curled into Rosie's side, the tender touch of fingers and fabric somewhere near her cheek as she glanced upwards and found half of Rosie's head facing her way, and his hand tucking the blanket under her chin.

Without second thought, one of his fingers came to the corner of her eyes and brushed at what she could only guess was a stray tear. And then he smiled at her, so lovingly, so full of care that she was sure that wherever she was, wasn't Earth. And he didn't even say a word to her.

Letting her sit there in his embrace, curled into his side, quiet and withdrawn.

He didn't say a word.

He stood there and watched her quietly, adjusting the blanket a few times here and there, meeting her gaze every few moments and offering a smile that she felt throughout her entire body. When she had found her voice, it was hoarse and creaky, but raw.

"I'm so sorry, Rosie." she found herself saying quietly, her eyes welling with tears slightly. And he instead tilted his head and watched her.

"You have nothing to apologize for," he said, his hand against her shoulder, moving back and forth, "absolutely nothing." And she nodded because she believed him. She watched as he slowly retracted, sitting himself down in the pilot's seat, swinging his legs over the side to face her, leaning forward and allowing her to get a full view of his face and his eyes - without the crusher cap, without the mental preparation of preparing for a mission. It was simply Rosie Rosenthal in front of her now. Judy watched him with tired eyes and swallowed nervously.

"Thanks for the blanket, Rosie," she managed out quietly, "you don't have to sit here with me, if you don't want to. I just needed to get away from it all for a bit."

"It's okay." Rosie said with a quiet smile, "Just didn't want you to have to be alone, that's all. Look," she watched as he reached into his own A2 and revealed a book in his grasp - The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, "even brought a book." Judy's eyes widened at the sight of it and suddenly, she felt a bit of weight lift from her shoulders. Sitting up a bit, she sniffled to herself and caught a glimpse of Rosie's eyes and the cover of the book.

"On the Steinbeck kick?" she asked him, a small smile escaping her as Rosie met her gaze and chuckled quietly.

"Seems like it." he said, "Finished up Of Mice and Men, just….left it in your barracks, too." She looked at him and felt her eyes glow with a smile a bit. He smiled wider.

"Lieutenant Montez let me in." he offered her.

"Thanks." she said quietly, before offering a small smile, "Really, you don't have to stay." Rosie looked at her, that tender look on his face and shook his head.

"You're apart of my crew now," Rosie said quietly, tapping his fingers gently against the book cover, as if a tune had just struck his mind, "a pilot does what he or she must do for the safety of the crew." Judy cracked a smile at his words.

"I'm safe." she offered him and he chuckled at her words.

"Well, it's the beginning of November, and pretty cold, and you're holed up in the cockpit of a B-17 with nothing past an A2 and no blanket." he said back, before nodding to her, "Wouldn't consider it entirely safe in my book." Judy watched him before managing a small laugh at his words, snuggling the blanket - most likely his blanket from God knows where - up around her more and looking to him.

"Thank you, Rosie." she said, barely above a whisper, her tone genuine, and slightly broken, before she met his gaze again, "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course." he said, "I'm an open book." Then he smirked, tapping on the book again and she found herself chuckling again at his words.

"You're too funny," she said softly, reaching up to brush some of her hair behind her ears, wiping at her eyes before letting out a breath, "if you had known what to expect from all of this, would you still be a pilot?" Gently, she tucked herself against the back of the copilot's chair and watched him with wide, curious eyes.

She got the sense the question had knocked Rosie a bit off guard because he looked at her with a slightly surprised face and did that cute little thing where he smiled slightly, the corners of his eyes crinkling, before settling his jaw.

"Well," he started, glancing out the front of the cockpit window, growing quiet for a moment, "I don't quite know." He looked back at her.

"Even if you knew what you'd expect from the war? All the death, the emotions…the bloodshed?" Judy asked him, watching his eyes grow with adoration and pride as he looked to the mechanics of the pilots chair - the wheel, all the working and running gears and mechanisms. Rosie reached forward, gently stroking his hand along the top of the wheel, landing on the middle, metallic part of the bottom of the yoke and sighed.

"I would." he said, a finality to his statement as he gave the wheel a gentle pat before looking over at her. Judy could only stare at him in a mesmerized state.

Knowing someone like Rosie Rosenthal was a leader in the 100th Bomb Group would forever make her feel safe and protected. Knowing he'd do it all again, despite the knowing, the reality.

And that's when her eyes welled further and it hit her again. Like waves crashing on a shore. Over and over. As if she was standing there, trying to get back up and she couldn't. It hit her over and over, drowning her in the salt.

The sacrifice from their leaders, from the people risking their lives day in and day out. Rosie continued to watch her softly - he remained so calm, so stoic, so…..filled with an authority and steadiness that she felt she could never muster. Whenever she had seen him the few times through the interrogation room or after they'd been released, he always seemed to have a sense about himself and what had happened and how to carry himself going forward.

"Here," Rosie said leaning forward, holding out his hand, "give me your hand." Judy slowly placed her hand forward into his own - she had to hold back the small laugh at the sheer size difference. His hand was warm, too, soft, a steady presence. He clasped his other hand overtop hers and then looked at her.

"There's no one way to learn it, but I'm sure you saw it with Captain Faulkner and Lieutenant Bradshaw," Rosie said quietly, "even if they aren't here, they still are people that would do anything to keep you safe, keep you alive and keep you moving forward. And they'd do it all over again to know their crew was safe. You know that." Judy sniffled. She nodded.

"In my eyes, knowing how Lieutenant Bradshaw was with you and the crew?" Rosie started, "I don't doubt she's still alive. Her, Carlisle, Farley and Harlowe. I don't doubt it." Judy managed a smile.

"And I want you to know that I'm here for you, too," Rosie said, "they're out there. People in the 100th don't seem the type to let the war get the best of them. But, for now, you're safe, you're here, and I want you to know that." Judy softly gripped his hand at his words and nodded.

"Please don't leave me." she whispered, eyes glassy with tears. It didn't take less than a second for Rosie to place the book down and move forward, wrapping his arms around her form. He held her with such understanding, such certainty and calm that she never wanted to have to let go.

Tucking her head into his neck, she squeezed her eyes shut and focused on him in this moment. He was such a massive person it seemed in comparison to her, his broad shoulders, his tall figure, cradling her like a wounded animal. And he was so inviting, so welcoming, so warm and forever one of the friendliest people she'd had the pleasure of meeting. And if anything, he was kind and he understood.

Maybe he never fully got to the story on Birdie Faulkner, or never would entirely understand how hard it was to get the group moving forward again with a replacement pilot, but he understood loss and what it meant to show up.

His hand gently grazed her back, over and over, up and down again overtop of the blanket, while his other arm cradled the side of her head, his thumb brushing her hair, tickling at her ears. Judy tested the waters.

"I don't normally breakdown like this," she whispered quietly, sniffling to herself, "I'm sorry."

"You have nothing to be sorry about, Judy," he said quietly in her ear, a small smile at the end of his words, "let's keep this blanket on you, you're freezing." She felt him pull it up higher over her back and then she couldn't help the small smile that was brought onto her face. Despite her puffy eyes, the dryness of her throat and the helplessness that seemed to pool in the pit of her stomach - she was smiling and it was because of Rosie Rosenthal.

"You know you're not alone, right, Judy?" Rosie said quietly and her face fell as he held her, "Montez told me you had come out here…..and….well, admittedly, she had told me to leave you alone. She knows you well, but….I came out here anyway, figured I-"

"Thank you." Judy whispered quietly, achingly, a stray tear leaking out of her eye as she took a deep breath in, "Thank you." She heard him let out a breath from his nose, almost like a bit of laughter and gave her a warm squeeze. She found it easier to speak when she wasn't looking at his face. Because looking at his face made her want to cry.

"The last time we lost someone - Captain Faulkner…" Judy started quietly, "I could barely get myself to function when I was alone. Usually, when I saw someone - Bucky or….maybe Blakely - someone higher up, I could get myself to function. Act like I was okay. Even when I wasn't." Rosie's hand slowly continued to move.

"And people would always say 'I'm so sorry', over and over. It got to the point where I'd go to bed, and just….I don't know, try to get a hand on my emotions?" Judy said, questioning even her own mind, as tears welled in her eyes.

"It was just so hard." she choked out, gripping onto him tighter as her chest heaved against him, "I'll be honest, you make me feel safe enough to cry, that's why I'm like this." It was the most honest thing she'd said in days it felt. And she hoped it wasn't overboard.

"Really?" he asked, almost as if he were surprised. Judy swallowed nervously.

"Yeah," she whispered quietly, "because you've taken care of me before. And I know how much you care for your crew, for the others. And I know you wouldn't judge me for this now." In her mind, she wanted to shut up, stop blabbering. But it was the truth. It always was.

With Rosie, it was the truth.

Slowly, she pulled back to look at him and found that same worried look written on his face.

"It's probably too early to ask, but it's who I am by heart - are you hungry? At all?" he asked her and she let out a small laugh, her stomach twisting in a sour manner, as she gripped his shoulder gently.

"Not really." she said quietly with a shake of her head. Rosie nodded, the corner of his lip turned upward at her as he glanced back at his chair.

"Well," he said softly, looking back at her, "how about you try and get some sleep then. I'll stay right here - I won't let anything happen to you, I swear." Judy eyed him tentatively as he pulled away - his warmth disappearing - as he sat down in the pilot's seat again and looked towards her.

"How'd you know I was sleepy?" she whispered out, feigning offense, the smile on her face doing her no favors.

"Your eyes." he said with a smirk, picking up the book, and opening up to a page he had doggy-eared. She watched him as he looked down to the book, his eyes tracing over the words in a fluid manner before moving on to flip to the next page and repeat.

And slowly, she felt the heaviness and exhaustion take over, her mind filled with quieted thoughts for the time being and the warmth of the blanket.

And she let herself fall asleep, right there in the copilot's chair, right next to Rosie Rosenthal.

[whatsbernardthinkingabout]

i like potassium

[fountainpenguin]

I love the way Hazel's parents get involved in city events (i.e. Angela setting up booths to sell her books, even offering ice cream during the electric ice cream float parade).

Timmy's parents liked watching parades and his mom did have a banana bread booth at Dimmsdale Days ("Snack Attack"), but I'd say they were more about watching things and their own self-care (like exercise) than getting involved with local events. It's fun to see Hazel's parents around.

I still think it's hilarious they didn't show up for trash clean-up day and sent their 10-year-old alone in a new city, but hey...

[kairithemang0]

No because you just know that neither of them could contain their excitement about seeing each other on a mission again you just know Curt got the news, left the room, went to the nearest bathroom and squealed like a child like “AHHHHH I get to see that British bastard again” and Owen’s is more quiet but he’s thinking a similar thing and then when they actually see each other it’s a very normal “hey”but in their brains they’re picking each other up and twirling each other around bcs omfg it’s been too long (probably only a few months but still that’s too long)

[lupins-hehim-pussy]

Neuvillette's body language in my mind ranges from curious feline, to Long Cryptid that lingers just outside the door when you're falling asleep

[made-my-peace-with-all-the-bad]

RIP Curtis brothers. You would’ve loved getting each other build a bears with voice messages

[thr4shit]

I NEED TO HUG MY MOOTS >:[

[m1d-45]

Let it be known that I love writing fluff, and I listen to character audios sometimes. SO! I came up with a cute idea for sagau imposter au. I heard somewhere that Xiao's adeptus form is a bird, so I wonder, what kind of bird? And that got me thinking. Xiao being a little song bird, or perhaps even a cardinal.

Now imagine: while looking for the imposter, Xiao stumbles upon them sitting beneath a tree, just feeding some birds. Said birds are absolutely loving the attention since the creator of Teyvat is giving them food and love!

Xiao watches, rather curious. The creator he knows hates birds, because they always dive and cause problems for them. But now... these little birds have completely abandoned any fear they may hold for human beings, happily landing on the hands and shoulders of this supposed imposter.

So he decides to test something.

Xiao turns into a small bird and approaches cautiously. In his smaller form, he's vulnerable to attack. But the person before him doesn't try to hurt him. Rather, they smile and call him "little friend" as they offer food to him. In his distrust, he bites them with his sharp beak.

His heart shatters when he sees divine blood spilling from the wound.

He's about to fly away, get as far away from here as he can. He found the true creator, and instead of worshipping them, he bit them! He caused them to bleed, he shouldn't even be near them-!

His mind stills when they pet his feathered head.

They murmur kind words to him, apologizing to him. They believed that they had startled him, that he bit to protect himself. They forgave him, they felt no hatred towards him, no anger or disappointment. Instead, they offered some chopped almonds, hoping he'd prefer that over bird seed.

He sang for them as he perched on their shoulder.

After that, he did his best to secretly protect the creator he'd harmed. He would adopt his smaller form and sing for them when they felt sad, and he'd use his human form to guard them from a distance. Yes, it made his chest ache whenever they looked at him with fear when they saw his more human form, but the yaksha only shook it off. It only made sense that you'd be scared. He was a frightening person, one that had tried to harm you before. He refused to try and change your feelings towards him. He didn't have the right.

He would be content to sing for you as a harmless bird.

-sibling anon (sorry if this is out of character for him I just like the idea)

oh….. he’s so soft…..

xiao hovering near the edge of the crowd, at first, drawing your attention since he doesn’t seem to be eating any of the seed you’d passed out.

when he finally hops within arms reach, you reach to nudge some of the food next to him closer, only to quickly whip your hand back. the birds around (on) you all flutter at the sudden movement, but you inspect your finger, the blue blood of teyvat welling up. your instinct is to stick it in your mouth, but that doesn’t seem safe considering a bird bit it, so you dab at it with a napkin.

the bird cries and flaps his wings, distraught, and your heart hurts. poor guy, you probably scared him, moving so quickly.

you pull out some chopped almonds from your pocket. the plan was to have them as a snack, but now… you put a few in your palm and close your hand around it, reaching forward to gently run two fingers over the birds back.

the other birds in the area seemed receptive to that, and this one does too, calming down considerably.

you take your hand back, opening your palm to drop the almonds on the floor, nudging them close before backing off.

“there you go,” you murmur, as the bird dips down to inspect the food. “i won’t hurt you.”

you allow yourself a silent cheer when it eats one of the almond pieces.

you see the small bird fluttering around you often, always on the edge of your vision. it’s easy to identify, the purple patch of feathers on its forehead easily standing out, and you’re always certain to push some food over to it. almonds, not birdseed.

the bird is a dark blue-teal, the underside of its wings a softer blue. it’s like no other bird you’ve seen in liyue, something that quickly catches your attention.

you brush some dirt off you as you stand, noting the way the bird immediately looks up from its food, unlike the others, to flap up into the tree you were sitting under.

you crack a smile, carefully reaching a finger for it. you’re slower this time, cautious of its skittish nature, but it lets you approach. when you carefully pet over its head, the birds eyes close.

your smile grows, and you try not to laugh at how confused the bird seems when you pull your hand away.

“i have to go,” you explain. “the millelith… they’re getting too close again. i won’t be able to see you again, little friend.”

the bird chirps, nearly indignant, and you do laugh this time. putting a small piece of almond on the branch in front of it, you wave goodbye to the other birds, seeing the blue one hadn’t touched the almond.

you frown. hopefully it’ll be alright….

xiao watches you until you’re out of sight, and even then, he stays on the branch.

you…. he’d forgotten you were being hunted by the millelith. he’d forgotten the order to look out for you. he’d forgotten the qixing called you a criminal.

who could blame him? it was easy to forget everything at your side, when you carefully ran your fingers over his feathers, scratching at his jaw with the edge of your nail. yes, he was vulnerable as a bird, but it was easy to be vulnerable with you. it was easy to be open, to sing as best he could in this form, to allow himself close enough to see the way your eyes lit up whenever another bird landed on your outstretched finger.

xiao dropped to the ground, morphing back into his human form. predictably, the birds cawed and flew away quickly. he watched them go, his mind contrasting it with how readily they flocked to you.

you…

he turned to the branch he was on, to the small almond piece left behind. the small symbol of your care, of how you recognized that he didn’t touch the birdseed and instead offered him your own food to eat. normally he wouldn’t lower himself to eating off the ground at all, let along bird food, but almonds weren’t awful and you seemed so happy when he ate..

xiao looked back to where you’d gone, to the sandbearer trees swaying in a soft wind.

he allowed his form to fall away and spread his wings, taking flight on the same breeze that urged you along.

perhaps he’d forget his orders for a little while longer, if it meant he could spend that time with you.

perhaps he’d forget his orders for a little longer, if it meant he’d get to spend that time with you.

[skyloftian-nutcase]

https://youtu.be/-wPg1tNEWmo?si=EsNma0bR5m-eYmr9

Skyrim music always is my go to for relaxing.

The world was hidden in a curtain of grey and white. The sound of heavy rainfall echoed in the air, water pelting his skin as he sat on slick stone. Whether it served to bring him to reality or help hide him from it was another matter, but his mind was certainly lost to the white noise.

Abel stared tiredly ahead. The rain brought life to Hyrule, promises of renewal to a land scorched by evil. He hadn’t thought much of it in the past. There was nothing to be renewed for him. He’s lost nearly all he knew and loved, and he’d tried desperately to hide what remained from the malice that had claimed everyone else.

Lyra never listened though.

Every raindrop felt like a bite, promises of renewal felt like a cruel joke.

Tilieth had always loved the rain. Link had never been a huge fan of it.

“Sir Abel?”

He barely heard the words. It wasn’t until the fourth call, with a gentle hand on his shoulder, that he turned. The Lurelin teenager looked back at him, eyes worried.

“She’s going to be okay,” the swordsman said earnestly. “The healers even said it.”

The rain was deafening. He didn’t register the words. He still saw his boy, bleeding and broken, skin charred, bone exposed, all washed away in the torrential downpour as golden light shone from the castle.

“Sir Abel?”

Ice hovered near him, it seemed. His right side was freezing. The swordsman, on his left, looked behind him as if asking someone something, but no one else was there.

She’s going to be ok, the wind seemed to whisper.

“We’ll destroy it,” the new Hero assured Abel. “I promise… we’ll get it right this time.”

Abel came to life in an instant, eyes sharp as he glared at the boy. “No.”

The boy flinched despite how quietly the command was spoken. It held such strength and bite to it, he might as well have screamed it.

No one else was going to get hurt. He would face the Divine Beast alone.

[mugloversonly]

Silver over Gold

Ch 3: Kintsugi - Final

Ch.1 Ch.2 AO3

Summary:

Steve and Eddie finally talk.

Steve stood outside Eddie’s door horrified by what he heard on the other side. Eddie was sobbing and his inner omega was whining weakly. “Eddie? Baby can I come in?” He pleaded.

“Alpha?” Eddie cried softly. “Door’s locked.” His voice was fading into a whisper. “I’m sorry alpha.”

Steve didn’t think twice about ripping the door of the hinges; he'd fix it later, he just hoped Wayne would understand. His omega needed him and his alpha would stop at nothing to help him (for once he was in total agreement). The smashing of the door echoed through the whole trailer but Eddie didn’t seem to notice. He was curled up on his side in the corner of the room with his head tucked against his knees, shaking violently. Steve rushed over to him and gently swept his hair out of his face. He gasped when he saw his beautiful omega. “Oh, Eddie.” He whispered. He was paler than usual, practically translucent. His lively chocolate eyes were red rimmed and puffy, empty as they stared up at him. Steve wasn’t even sure if Eddie could see him right now.

“I’m sorry alpha.” Eddie whispered. Steve stared at him hoping for some awareness in his eyes but there still wasn’t anything. He must be speaking unconsciously.

“Sh,” Steve cooed. “I’m right here, omega. Your alpha is right here. I'm not going anywhere.” He ran his hands up and down Eddie’s arms and kissed him on the forehead. His skin was freezing to the touch and if Steve didn’t know better he’d think he just came out of Lover’s Lake.

He took him into his arms, laid them back in Eddie’s nest, and removed their shirts for skin contact, pulling the blanket over them for good measure . Steve made sure to hold the omega’s nose directly onto his scent gland. He didn’t know much about rejection sickness, but from what he learned in school one way to cure it was through comforting touch and scents. Eddie barely moved and didn’t acknowledge Steve at all. Steve was having a hard time staying calm but the whines and howling of his omega were helping him to stay focused.

H is shivering finally subsided and Eddie fell into a light haze. He pulled back from Steve and his eyes were a bit clearer. “Stevie?” He asked. At Steve’s nod he threw himself back. He didn’t deserve to be held like this. He was a bad omega. His alpha didn’t love him and it was all his fault. Steve didn’t let him get far before he was yanking him right back in. He ran his fingers through his tangled hair and nuzzled his neck. “I’m sorry Steve. I should’ ve trusted you . I'm a bad omega.” He sobbed but Steve clapped a hand over his mouth.

“You're not a bad omega Eddie. You're my omega.” Steve said. He felt more than heard Eddie’s gasp and watched as his wet eyes widened. He reached up and pulled Steve’s hand off his mouth.

“I’m still your omega?” He whispered hopeful yet terrified.

“Yes, darling.” Steve replied caressing his cheek. Eddie put his hand over Steve’s and held it there.

“You still want to be my alpha? After everything I put you through?” Steve looked deep into Eddie’s eyes and kissed him on the nose.

“You didn’t put me through anything. I will always be your alpha. Even if you decided you wanted nothing to do with me, I will be here waiting. There is nothing you could do that would drive me away. I will never leave you.” He promised. “Let me apologize now.”

“No, Steve you don’t owe me anything.” Eddie said clutching his shirt. “I was the one in the wrong.”

“No you weren’t. I was scared. I didn’t stop to consider that I was stringing you along.” He bowed his head as tears finally spilled over. “I love you, Eddie. I never want you to doubt that. I’m sorry I didn’t say it sooner. And I’m sorry the first time I said it was in an argument.” He grabbed Eddie’s face and tilted it until their lips were barely a millimeter apart. “I would never lie to you. I know why you would think that. Wayne told me. Just know, that the most important person in my life, is right here in my arms. Okay?”

“Except Robin?” He knew it was shitty, but he needed to know.

“No my lovely omega. Even more important than Robin.” He kissed him then. A quick press of lips, there and gone in mere moments. “Robin is my best friend and I won’t stop loving her or change how she and I are with each other. But you’re my future mate, and nothing is more important than you feeling secure in us.” Eddie surged forward and kissed him hard practically shoving his tongue down his throat.

“I don’t want you to stop being friends with Robin or anything like that, Stevie. It’s just…” Eddie knew he had to let Steve hear some of this from him. “The pups constantly tell me how you two were made for each other and how it’s only a matter of time for you two to mate.” Eddie looked down. “I guess, with you wanting to keep it a secret and when I ask about courting you brush it off, mix that with Dustin asking me to find out if you’re secretly dating Robin and I thought it was only a matter of time before you stopped what we had and went with her. And when I saw you two together, I thought it finally happened and you didn’t even have the decency to tell me first.” His voice broke on that last word.

“Wait a second...the pups have been saying what?!” Steve yelled out startling the omega and causing him to whimper. “Sorry.” He took a few calming breaths before asking again. “The pups have been telling you that Robin and I are secretly together?”

“Basically.” Eddie admitted.

“No wonder you didn’t believe me.” Steve scoffed. “Don’t worry my love I’ll set the record straight as soon as I can.” He snuggled Eddie closer and kissed his hair.

“You don’t have to do anything you’re uncomfortable with Steve. Not for my sake.” He understood that it may be hard for Steve since he had only dated female omegas before. But his alpha just rolled his eyes.

“I’ll put an ad in the newspaper try me.” He laughed. “It’ll say something like: I, Steven Anthony Harrington am courting and plan to mate with the beautiful” he leaned over and nuzzled against Eddie’s scent gland causing the omega to giggle. “Wonderful, remarkable, one of a kind, Edward Wayne Munson.” He nipped lightly at his neck. “I will don’t tempt me.”

Light finally returned to Eddie’s eyes. “Thank you.” He whispered. Steve knew he was thanking him for much more but Steve didn’t want him to feel grateful that Steve treated him like a worthy partner.

“No thanks necessary. I’m not going to hide any more okay? In fact, close your eyes.” he said. When Eddie did so, he reached into his pocket to pull something out that he fastened around Eddie’s pale throat and kissed him softly. “Open.”

Eddie opened his eyes and gasped. It was the most unique courting gift he’d ever received. Pure silver because he mentioned to Steve once that it was his favorite precious metal. The pendant was a perfect copy of his warlock with small rubies creating the red lightening. As he took a closer look, he realized the neck of the guitar was actually Steve’s nail bat. It was the perfect combination of them.

His chest no longer felt tight and his nose tickled as his blood orange scent began pouring out of his scent gland. It was faint, but it was there. Steve beamed and pushed his nose to the source and took a big inhale. “Thank you, Alpha. I accept your request to court.” Eddie said in the traditional manner. He pulled away. “I’ll give you something I scented in return once it gets back to normal.” Eddie promised. Steve nodded and pulled him into another kiss. This one was more heated and while Eddie did feel better and the sickness was receding, he wasn’t ready to go very far. He leaned back slightly but stayed close so the alpha knew he was okay. “Is it alright, if we take it slow?” He couldn’t meet his eyes.

“Whatever you need.” Steve said tilting his head up. “What ever you want. It’s yours.” He said more like an oath than a promise.

“I threw away your yellow sweater. I’m sorry. I know it was your favorite.” He admitted ashamed. Steve slid away and for a second Eddie thought he was leaving, but before he could let out a single noise of protest he was getting hit in the face with soft cotton. In his hands was the best thing he'd ever seen.

“Wayne said he saw you throw it away and figured you were just upset.” Eddie smiled.

“He knows me so well.”

“I’d hope so, he is your dad and all.” Steve said. “Speaking of, I’d like to formally ask him to court you. I know you already said yes, but it’s traditional to ask an omega’s parent.” Eddie beamed.

“You really do love me, don’t you?” He asked.

“I do. I love you so much. I want to court you and mate with you. I want to see you round with my pups.” Steve replied and laid down pulling Eddie with him. “I want us to smell like one another so there’s no mistaking who we belong to.”

“How long have you had this necklace by the way?” Eddie asked the pendant clutched in his hand.

“Since right after spring break.” He admitted. At Eddie’s raised eyebrows he sheepishly said “I told you, I’ve wanted to court you for a long time.”

The two talked a bit more about their insecurities and about Eddie’s past trauma with alphas. When the alpha that hurt him came up again, Steve growled. “Give me a name.” The fire in his eyes would have scared Eddie if it was directed at him. But at the moment, it may have made him a bit slick. He’d never had an alpha want to protect him like this.

“If I tell you, can you promise you won’t do anything crazy?” Eddie asked.

“No.” Steve said. “I promised no lies.” He defended at Eddie’s snort.

“You did, you did. Okay, just promise you’ll be careful.” Steve agreed to that and motioned for Eddie to continue. “It was Tommy Hagan my first senior year.” He admitted. The scent of burning woods filled the his nostrils.

“When?” Steve growled. Had he still been friends with Tommy?

“We started courting in August. The heat we spent together was in November.”

“You were the omega he couldn’t shut up about?” Steve asked. Eddie shrugged.

“I guess. Weird that he couldn’t shut up about me when he cheated on me with Carol.” Eddie said meekly. The faint blood orange Eddie was finally emitting was turning sour and he was trying to pump out calming omega pheromones to calm Steve, but it didn’t seem to be working well due to the dull nature of it.

“Sorry, sorry.” Steve said as he willed himself to calm down. “It’s not important right now.” He stood and pulled Eddie to his feet.

“What is important is getting you checked out by a doctor. Let’s let Wayne know and we can go okay?” Steve asked. Eddie nodded and the two got dressed with some difficulty since they refused to let go of each other. Steve wore his yellow sweater so it would smell like him again and Eddie pulled on his favorite band tee. On their way out of the trailer they wrote a note for Wayne and Steve walked Eddie to the passenger side. He opened the door and kept a firm hand in Eddie’s until he was seated. Eddie watched on amused as Steve practically sprinted around the car so they could spend the least amount apart as possible.

~ ~~

At the hospital, the Doctor that saw him last time was able to see him again. “Eddie, this one could have killed you if your alpha hadn’t come when he did. To help you get back on your feet it’ll be good for the two of you to spend the next 48 to 72 hours together. Now for cases like yours we have a new type of medication that can stop rejection sickness from getting worse once it starts. I’m giving you a prescription for that. And I want you to go back to taking the preventive ones for a while.” He looked between the two men knowingly. “I’d say until you’ve mated. After that, you should be okay to stop them. But, keep the emergency one on you at all times. It could be the difference between life and death.” He said before leaving them with a nurse. She gave Eddie some fluids in an IV that were supposed to help him return to normal and then they were on their way.

“So, what now?” Eddie asked. Steve took his hand again.

“Let me take you out on the town? Then we can go back to the trailer and cuddle?” He asked. Eddie blushed and his blood orange scent finally filled the car in full force.

"I'd like that."

@v3lv3tf0x @lexirosewrites Final part!

That's a wrap on this one. But I do have plans to write some Robin POV and what Steve does the next time he sees Tommy.

[pallaspally]

idk why the anons on here are so mean to you, you do genuinely seem so sweet

you're like if a bench in hollow knight was a person

i really do admire how forgiving you are about it though

:( Thats the nicest thing someone has ever compared me to <3

Honestly, people tend to take kindness for weakness. I used to be the same, a broken kid mad at the world because i thought the world had no love for me, and that those who seemed kind were fake or weak and if i wanted to survive i had to push them away/break them. I grew up though. I became that kind person, and i learnt that it takes so much strength to be kind, to choose kindness every day. Im just a person on the internet, im not going to change some anons mind/lifestyle, im not a miracle worker. However i can show them that im not being fake with my kindness. That i do truly love each and every person that visits my blog. That my kindness is my strength and i will hold onto it regardless of what any silly, angry, misguided anon wants to say about it. And i think thats enough, you know?

[scn-thedog]

i'm literally passing down now like forr eal i'm sos sleep y but . let me tell you. i think about this specific vibe of tvtwist so often. they're not at each other's throats but they're like .. still suepr toxic just casually. like tv goes to whine about lock being gone because he is working to twisty (she has no friends totalk to) and he's like "if you don't shut up i might actually kill you" .like i actually think so much about them just hanging out AND IT'S NOT EVEN CLOSE TO CANON THEY NEVER HANG OUT. if they actually did twisty would lose all interest for tv (she is such a massive loser it'll give them second hand embarassment) like oj my god she makes him look like less of a weirdo freak. thats it