#now just 900 more games before the series is over

[gloomwitchwrites]

Obsession

Thorin Oakenshield x Female Reader

Content & Warnings (per the warnings MDNI): Stalker AU, mutual stalking, mutual pining, unhealthy behavior, slight tension, flirting

Word Count: 900

A/N: Requested by @protosslady for 3.5k Spooky Bingo (Stalker AU)

One sided-stalking becomes a mutual endeavor.

ao3 // taglist // main masterlist // 3.5k spooky bingo masterlist

A little thrill runs up your spine.

It's a dangerous game you play.

A series of behaviors that go far beyond the bounds of appropriateness.

But you cannot help yourself. The itch to watch—to linger—is a tangible yet unrelenting need.

Many women fawn over Prince Thorin. They openly follow him, throwing themselves in his path with the hope that he might take the bait. They are unafraid and their behavior is acceptable. Why would they not? Prince Thorin is handsome and without a wife. Surely, he would find favor with someone.

But you do not.

You do not throw yourself in Prince Thorin's path.

Yet you trace his every step. Have learned his habits. You go out of your way to be where he is at all times if just for the chance to see him.

It's an obsession. A dark need that won't abate. It is wrong to do this, to dig around and dwell when he has no idea who you are.

At least the other women are forthright with their admiration and longing. Their intentions are clear and plain for all to see. They hide nothing from him nor anyone in Erebor. And they are utterly unashamed of what they do.

You? You are ashamed.

It is a deep wound. A gnarled gash.

But it is an impulse.

One you chose to indulge.

And it’s not like you ever approach him. It’s not like you’re actively seeking Prince Thorin’s attentions, though you believe that he will eventually notice you.

If Prince Thorin crosses your path, you suddenly become keenly interested in a nearby wall, or you observer your nails as if dirt sits under them. But the whole time, you’re observing him from the corner of your eye—tracking his every movement and step.

And on that same note, Prince Thorin does not stop.

He says nothing to you.

You are hyper aware of his presence at all times. You take note of his conversations with others. If you find something out about him—like he’s been enjoying a particular treat of late—you make sure to leave a small gift for him.

No note. No name.

Just an offering. A sample.

The other women who clamber after him wouldn’t date. And when they do, you make sure those gifts disappear completely before Prince Thorin has a chance to see them. One of these days, a few of the miners are going to find a pile of broken gifts at the bottom of a mine shaft.

And what is the point, really? Will Prince Thorin actually find this attention favorable?

Eventually.

Surely.

You are the most dedicated. You respect his personal space even as you watch from afar. You’re the one who is actually trying by observing and listening, not fawning.

It is an impulse.

A pull.

This is more than attraction—more than lust.

You will have him.

Eventually, you will have him.

It is council day. Thorin always attends.

Like clockwork, you watched him enter at his usual time and place. But many hours have passed, and it is now far beyond the normal time for his departure. Others have passed under the arch, but Thorin has yet to emerge.

Worry sets in.

Have you missed him? Did you somehow forget his schedule? You wrote it all done. There is an entire journal hidden in your home that has it all written down to the minute. Have you completely messed this up?

"A stalker? I'm flattered."

You nearly jump out of your skin at the soft purr of Prince Thorin’s voice. Turning around, you press yourself up against the stone. He is right there, invading your space. Placing a hand against the rock behind you, Prince Thorin leans in, stopping all escape.

"I've been watching you," murmurs Thorin.

Watching…you?

"Me?" you ask, voice small and timid.

He nods. "On council days, you wait here. For me. But you've never approached. Why?"

"I—I don't wait for you." Thorin arches an eyebrow, unimpressed. You swallow, glancing away. "Perhaps I do,” you mutter.

"Do you like me?"

"My prince?" you ask, startled.

"Do you," he repeats. "Like me?"

You've certainly been watching him, tracing his every step, and observing his movements with the hope that he will happen to walk by you. A glimpse is all you want—all you crave.

But Prince Thorin is seeking an answer, and you are unsure of what to say. Admitting that you do would be a relief, but it's clear he knows you've been haunting his schedule like a wraith.

The corner of Thorin's mouth twitches with amusement. "On council days, you wait at this wall for me." He shifts, his gaze angled at the archway he should have come out of. "I exit there to go to the mines." His gaze returns to you. "When I assist in the royal treasury, you're somehow lingering nearby, acting like you're supposed to be there. Everywhere I am, you also are."

"I don't know what you're talking about,” you reply quickly.

"But you,” Prince Thorin emphasizes. “Visit the market when fresh flowers are delivered from Dale. Your favorite treat from the bakery is the apple tart. And you always haggle with Alfrin over jewelry and yet pay full price anyway."

"How—"

"Are we to keep playing games? Or will you allow me to take you on a proper date?"

taglist:

@coffeecaketornado @thetaekwondofeline @mrsdurin @glassgulls @childofyuggoth

@glitterypirateduck @foxxy-126 @km-ffluv @sweetbutpsychobutsweet @singleteapot

@tiredmetalenthusiast @miaraei @cherryofdeath @ferns-fics @ninman82

@eternallyvenus @beebeechaos @smileykiddie08 @chaostwinsofdestruction @weasleytwins-41

@thewulf

[sophies-junkyard]

NOBODY ASKED but… Obviously Simon’s arc in adventure time solidified the series as one of greatest of all time (and I’m so hyped for this ice king sadness renaissance) but now I’m thinking of OTHER Adventure Time moments that rewired my brain as a kid. In no particular order:

1. “Once the strong guys got it how they liked it they said ‘this is fair now. This is the law.’ Once they were winning they changed the rules”. They really had the cartoon dog say that on tv in 2014.

2. “People get built different. We don’t have to understand it, we just gotta respect it���

3. The entirety of All The Little People. That shit was absolutely nuts for a kids show but also like…. I can’t articulate the lesson I just know there was one and it haunted me. The danger of the human ego. Hubris. Irreverence. Don’t play god bro.

4. Lady and Peebles. When PB ripped Ricardio’s leg off and bashed his skull in with it. And it was so hardcore they edited it out of the episode. Bro. I remember watching that after school one day and how my jaw just DROPPED at a PRINCESS being so brutal. They let her be so fucking angry and that was a game changer.

5. [Finn, about a horrific memory] “that one’s going in the vault. Aaaaaaaaaandd. It’s gone.” I quote that CONSTANTLY. It’s a great way to bring levity to a bad situation, but also forces me to go “hey wait a sec that’s not gonna work forever”. Things don’t stay in the vault.

6. Puhoy. He lived an entire life in that pillow world. He had kids. And then it’s just gone like a dream.

7. The deer. It was probably my first real introduction to horror. The hand wiggle. You all know exactly what I’m referencing. Were the candy people stuck in that well for 6 months???

8. What Was Missing!! Obviously now because it foreshadowed (and confirmed past) Bubbline, but back then just because it was so good??? IMO, this is the episode that defined WHO our main cast was, and how their relationships needed to grow for them to be content. It set up the next 6 years of the show! Plus it gave us 2 absolute BANGERS. Ugh i rewatched that recording so many times it wasn’t even funny.

9. Ghost Princess. Really just for the line where he sounds like he’s gonna shit his pants remembering his death and then in a clear narrator voice he’s like “I was a broken man.”

10. The pajama war episode. Now I’m doing this from memory so I could be wrong, but I think this really marks the start of Finn growing up. “I’ve really enjoyed just… hanging out with you.” The ability to start over with someone you’ve got complicated history with. The kindness. The growth from both of them!! It’s a direct parallel of episode 1 but their tones couldn’t be more different and I love it.

11. The slow and horrifying realization that The Mushroom War was nuclear Armageddon. Mushroom clouds. That went so far over my head as a kid even though they reference it constantly. It finally clicked during “I remember you”. Which I am NOT gonna go into because holy fuck that’s like 18 posts on its own.

12. Goliad! A child mirroring EVERYTHING they see, for better or worse. Seeing Jake in a bad moment screaming at the kids and goliad absorbing that behavior. Seeing she can use fear to control people. Also PB was Fucking Crazy! Her line “I’m not gonna live forever… I would if I could” is even more unhinged when we learn (like years later) that she’s already 900 years old. But she does physically age so I guess there’s that. The Suitor also falls into this category of episodes.

Ok getting into some of the more talked about moments

1. OK I LIED I have to talk about I remember you. I was 11 years old. I turned on the new adventure time episode like usual. 10 minutes later I was grappling with a grief I had never imagined before. Absolutely BAWLING not just for Simon and Marceline (the PLOT), but for what it showed me. The reality that every kid tries not to think about: your loved ones will leave you someday, even if they don’t want to. It’s an episode that becomes more powerful with every year I get older. To get a bit personal, dementia has completely taken my grandparents from me. I’ve seen sides of my grandfather that should never have existed, and I must constantly forgive him for what he does… now that he doesn’t remember me. And someday it’ll be my parents. That’s just the way of the world, ya know? Anyways, I remember my mom got home right as the credits were rolling and we had a long talk about keeping people alive with memory, mortality, and how the future was far away and we should decide on dinner lmao.

2. The Hall of Egress. I was almost 15. Life was changing. I was changing, and it was strange and frightening. That feeling where you know you’re losing your childhood but you just want to cling to it. Follow the same old familiar path, stick with what’s comfortable. But life doesn’t work that way. It took me years to really understand this episode and it’s symbolism. Honestly I still don’t think I could fully explain it. It’s like. How do I put this. I was so glad to be in the target age group in that moment. I was so glad that something I was growing up with was assuring me “you’re changing, but we’re changing too”. And isn’t that the theme of adventure time? Everything stays, but it still changes.

3. The absolute horror of Ferns existence. He’s Finn, but he’s wrong and warped. All those memories of the people he loves and they can’t stand to be in the same room as him.

4. Susan Strong. The introduction of a RUNNING PLOT. The show up to that point had really been so goofy and so monster of the week. I think the only really plot heavy episode before this one was It Came From the Nightosphere? And then suddenly they call into question the fact that Finn really is the ONLY HUMAN in all of OOO. And then… is he? It was SUCH a departure from the usual tone. Ending that episode with him reaching below her hat and gasping in shock, but never telling the audience what he found. And then she’s just gone. Which leads us to Islands!

5. Min and Marty. Second saddest episode in the entirety of adventure time, made worse because you know exactly how this family is gonna end up. There’s SO MUCH to dissect about Martins behavior in the series. A reformed con artist receives a traumatic brain injury while attempting to save his son. They’re both lost at sea, and he never looks for him. Was it the emotional trauma? Was it the physical damage? Meanwhile a mother loses her husband and her child in a single night and never EVER learns why. Nobody but Martin knows what happened that night. Also Finns fear of the ocean from season 1 is finally explained. 7 years of ignoring Finns origins and then they throw you THIS??? Watching it live was unreal.

Anyways I’m sure I’ll think of more. I might add on to this later for my own sake lmao, but I’d love to hear other peoples formative moments, quotes, episodes, etc. I really just needed to dump this information out of my brain so I can get on with my week.

[lastchancevillagegreen]

So, how much did I enjoy Paul Murray's insanely creative 700 page novel The Bee Sting? Enough to buy his earlier works, that's how much. I used to see the book Skippy Dies and think, "I'd never read a book called that!" Guess again, brilliant boy!

Murray has written four novels. His debut, 2003's An Evening of Long Goodbyes, is already out of print in the US, so I had to go to eBay and buy it from the UK. I found a dealer who was charging the same price for shipping as he was for the book, so that was reasonable. Then there is 2010's Skippy Dies and 2015's The Mark and The Void. Were I not in the middle of my second Birchbark House book I'd leap right into Skippy Dies, another messy book filled to overflowing with characters that consumes 700 pages!

The game plan is to finish the Birchbark House series (or as many of the quartet of books as I possibly can by Saturday night) and then leap back into Zola on Sunday. His 600 page Germinal about coal mining is bound to be harrowing and it will consume all of my day as I attempt to read 100 pages of Zola a day for a week. Then I'll finish whatever remains of Birchbark and then it is right into Skippy Dies!

But reading game plans are as mercurial as my moods. I've a stack of new books I'm excited to read: Pilar Quintana's The Abyss, DH Lawrence's Lady Chatterley's Lover, Alison MacLeod's Tenderness (a fictional account about the censorship battle over Lady Chatterley's Lover involving Jackie Kennedy--evidently based on actual events surrounding Kennedy's love for the novel and her role in getting it to the US uncensored) and of course, the final four Émile Zola novels I had hoped to finish in 2023. Whether that happens or not remains to be seen. Because somewhere I have to fit in The Crimson Petal and The White (a 900 page behemoth recommended to me by a God's Jukebox mate) and The Saga of Gosta Berling by Selma Lagerlöf, the first woman to ever win the Nobel Prize for literature. Then there are the two books by Diana Athill from one of my favorite presses, New York Review Books as well as two more books forthcoming next week from them!

And let's not forget, there are three remaining Book Club books left on the year, only one of which I want to read (Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez which is highly praised by another favorite modern author, Celeste Ng). Then come December all the current members of Book Club will pick a new group of books to read. Our attendees number eight at the moment, not counting Alix or Ty, the two librarians who are suddenly co-hosting the group. I'm the only original member left, how is that possible? I'm the guy who quits everything!

For thinking just four weeks ago I was through reading, I realize now I just needed a break. I looked through my records over the last two decades and it seems about every four to five years I often take a one to two month break from reading before leaping back into it with a crazed obsession. That crazed obsession might just be here again.

[in-my-feels-probably]

Hey congratulations on 900 followers!! So happy for you! I wanted to request a romantic game of thrones match up.

I'm 5'3, use she/her pronouns, pisces with long curly black hair and black eyes, an INFP and I am doing psychology rn. I'm questioning right now so you can ship me with anyone. I enjoy listening to music, especially the kind that's intellectual yk, that challenges you and makes you learn something. Currently I'm pouring over Arctic Monkeys' discography but I also love Hozier, Ruelle and Billie Eilish. My favourite colours are black, white and red. I am a bit dreamy, always kinda lost in my head so I love everything fantasy related. My favourite movies are Dune, Tenet, La La Land. In series I love Arcane and ATLA. I'd mention books but I couldn't choose more than the GOT series and the death of vivek oji. I'm pretty indecisive and an overthinker. Can't decide on something without considering all the pros and cons in super detail. I also enjoy writing. Sometimes when I think of a creative sentence I write it in my notes app.

I hope this is enough hehe. Thank you. And congrats again! ❤️

hi!

thank you for participating :)

since you have no gender preference, i’ll tell you which of both the boys and the girls i ship you with. but i’ll do the full description and blurb thing for the character i think you’re a better fit for.

i ship you with margaery and robb! i’m gonna go with robb for this, i hope that’s alright :)

i think your appreciation for intellectuality would fascinate him. of course he grew up well educated, but i don’t see him having a passion for continuing his education past what the septa and the maester made him learn. he was more interested in practical things, knowing one day he would have to be a soldier and a lord. but you would prompt him to think for himself more, instead of following what other people expected of him. he’d find himself reading and expressing an interest in the arts, simply so he could bring it up in conversation with you. he’d want to impress you, and so he’d be actively bettering himself just so he could talk to you and make you smile.

he’d find it endearing that you get lost in your head and like to fantasize. i think there are times in his life where he also thought of all the possibilities he could find himself in, if it weren’t for being the stark heir. he’d have a certain appreciation for the heroics and the adventures of all the stories you’d tell him about. but fantasy can get a bit complicate, and he’d need you to explain the specifics. he might not even understand what you’re talking about, but he doesn’t care. he just likes listening to you talk enthusiastically about something.

he’d also find your indecision endearing. i think he’s a pretty logical person, and also a very stubborn person. once his mind his made up, that’s enough for him. in order to be a good leader, he can’t be questioning his every decision. it would show weakness, and potentially put his men in danger. but he’d also fear sometimes that he was making the wrong decision. he’d ask your opinion on certain matters, taking it seriously. you’d think it out better than he would, so he would really value your input on more serious matters. but for the less important things, where you still treated it like it was life or death, he’d love watching your process of making decisions. it would amuse him.

he’d find you in the library, scouring over the shelves for your next book to read. he’d chuckle at your look of frustration, it bringing a smile to his face.

“it doesn’t really matter what you read first, darling. they’re books. it’s not like they’re going to grow legs and hop off the shelf before you can get to them.”

you’d groan turning to him. “but what if the one i choose is bad? what if it’s wasting my time? what if there’s a better book on this shelf that i’m missing because i was too impatient to get to it?”

his grin would widen, and he’d pull a book down from the top shelf, handing it to you. “here. you’ll like this one, i promise. i read it myself.”

“you read this?” you’d ask, raising a brow as you took it from him to look over the pages. “why?”

he’d sheepishly shrug, shifting back and forth on his heels. “i figured you could read it and we could talk about it after. i actually enjoyed this one.”

you’d smile, your heart warming at his thoughtfulness. you’d link your arm with his, letting him guide you out of the library with your new selection in hand.

“how sweet. thank you, robb.”

he’d smile down at you, keeping you close at his side. “you’re welcome, love.”

—

hope you enjoyed this! thanks again for participating :)

[rafaelblackbird15]

Teen Wolf Fic Recs Part 2: Steter

It took me quite awhile to gather all these together, so please enjoy discovering more parts to the incredible world of Teen Wolf, provided to you by the wonderful writers of our fandom.

Leave comments and kudos for these writers if you can, they really deserve it, they're wonderful. And it's my honour to try and share their creations with tumblr.

These are Steter, Stiles Stilinski/Peter Hale fanfictions. Read them at your will. Check the tags on the actual fics for warnings and such.

I have included links to authors that write a lot of Steter as well, and some of their fics for examples. I'm sorry this post got so long, haha, but enjoy the stories, they're worth it.

If any of the links don't work, just comment and I'll fix it.

Check out my other Sterek fic recs [Part 3] and [Part 4] and Steter fic recs [Part 1]

*********

Broken Bones and Broken Bonds by twothumbsandnostakeincanon(somanyofthekids) on Archive of Our Own

Words: 20148

Chapters: 4/?

Summary:

Stiles kind of wished that he’d at least tried weed before this. 

Or something, you know? Maybe taken up a graffiti hobby, or even just skateboarded in front of City Hall often enough to get a citation. 

He wished he’d done something to be deserving of the looks people gave him now, rather than just being the recipient of his dead father’s unused power. 

**********

Stigmata by twothumbsandnostakeincanon (somanyofthekids) on Archive of Our Own

Words: 1661

Chapters: 1/1

Summary:

He feels so hollow that he almost wonders if he's been turned inside out. This emptiness he feels; is it the vastness of the entire world?

How do you fill a world? With people, he supposes. But his people no longer want him.

He needs people.

*********

Beefcake Mountain by twothumbsandnostakeincanon(somanyofthekids) on Archive of Our Own

Words: 14565

Chapters: 7/7

Summary:

Shortly after moving back to Beacon Hills, the left hand of the Hale Pack opened a text from a mysterious number.

"Is there a mirror in your pants? Because I can see myself in them."

What the f—

**********

Steter Week 2019 by twothumbsandnostakeincanon(somanyofthekids)

Works: 4

Complete: No

Summary:

There isn't a summary listed so I've included the first fic underneath:

Marvelous Miss and Magnificent Mischief by twothumbsandnostakeincanon(somanyofthekids)

Words: 3346

Chapters: 1/1

also Part 1 of the Magnificent Mischief series

Summary:

“Marvelous Miss and the Magnificent Mischief!” the carnival barker shouted just outside the corridor with all the food tents. “Come see Miss Paige do amazing tricks with her talking raven! He not only speaks, but he jokes! He teases! He philosophizes!”

********

Author: twothumbsandnostakeincanon(somanyofthekids)

This author has a lot of wonderful Steter fics, and their writing of the pairing is really worth having a good look through.

*******

Blood Runs Cold by Smalls2233 on Archive of Our Own

Words: 111408

Chapters: 22/22

Summary:

“So then why are we letting Scott and Derek search for it if you know it's useless?”

Peter looked down at Stiles and cocked his head with a grin. “Because I think seeing my nephew and your best friend run around like headless chickens while I think up a plan is hysterical.”

“And the plan is…?”

----

Trusting Peter Hale is something that Stiles had repeatedly told himself to never do. He had seen first hand the results of Peter's plans and schemes, but when a shadow began tormenting Beacon Hills, he found that sometimes he'd have to to play along with Peter's games.

This story does include a dose of Chris&Stiles interaction about midway and carries on throughout, and then Chris/Peter towards the midend, which also carries on. And it kind of dissolves into Chris/Peter/Stiles. If that's not your taste, that's fine, because the majority of the story is Stiles/Peter, and that majority is really really good Steter.

**********

No One Listening Tonight by Smalls2233

Words: 6985

Chapters: 1/1

Summary:

That left… well it left Peter and only Peter. Relying on Peter for help was only slightly better than stabbing himself through the eye with a hot poker. But desperate times called for desperate measures.

Of course, there was always the option of packing up and letting whatever was trying to destroy the town succeed this time. Stiles snorted under his breath as he thought about how that would probably leave him with fewer injuries than dealing with Peter would. But unfortunately, that wasn’t an option. Stiles knew he needed to head downtown to Peter’s apartment and pray the man was willing to work with him.

----

Stiles stumbles into a magical trap forged by a wannabe warlock.

*********

Author: Smalls2233

*********

Blue by Wynnebat on Archive of Our Own

Words: 3179

Chapters: 2/2

Summary:

Derek brings both Scott and Stiles to the hospital to prove a point about hunters, but Stiles isn’t sure the point he’s getting is the point Derek’s trying to make. Especially when his black and white world explodes into color the moment he looks into Peter Hale’s eyes.

*********

The Long Way Around by Wynnebat on Archive of Our Own

Words: 15569

Chapters: 3/3

Summary:

When Peter leaves Beacon Hills for good, he expects that to be it for the broken bonds of the last remaining members of the Hale pack. Fate and Stiles Stilinski aren’t of the same opinion.

**********

Prowl by Wynnebat on Archive of Our Own

Words: 3454

Chapters: 1/1

Summary:

Laura's body is never found, but instead of continuing with his murder spree, Peter gets distracted by the scent of his mate. Stiles gets very distracted by the huge wolf that starts showing up at his house all the time.

**********

Author: Wynnebat

This author writes some really interesting, deep stories about Steter that are really beautiful.

**********

your last white lie (everything is not alright) by snowdarkred on Archive of Our Own

Words: 4023

Chapters: 1/1

Summary:

Stiles says yes, and things go downhill from there.

**********

reflect by snowdarkred on Archive of Our Own

Words: 569

Chapters: 1/1

Part 1 of the dig your teeth in and tear until you taste (peter/stiles oneshots) series

Summary:

(previously posted to tumblr)

When he dreams, he can sometimes still hear his mother’s voice, explaining it to him: Reflections are the price we pay for what we are.

*********

sentire by snowdarkred on Archive of Our Own

Words: 1027

Chapters: 1/1

Part 2 of the dig your teeth in and tear until you taste (peter/stiles oneshots) series

Summary:

[to feel]

Stiles hears the whisper of death before it strikes.

**********

Author:

snowdarkred

This author writes some really intense, interesting stories about Peter and Stiles. Not as long as some fics are, but they're really good adaptions of Steter with a lot of feeling.

**********

The Striking Complication by aurevell on Archive of Our Own

Words: 27235

Chapters: 4/15

Summary:

The smile slips off Stiles’s face. “Hey, um. Why am I here?” he asks, voice unsteady. “I’m—I have this weird feeling like I shouldn’t leave you. I’ve felt all day like...” He can’t finish the thought.

Peter looks as surprised as Stiles feels. A strange expression passes over his face, there and gone before Stiles can decipher it.

Stiles snaps awake each morning with the sense that he’s missing something. Weirder still, he can’t wrap his head around his sudden, inexplicable trust in Peter Hale, who seems to know way more than he’s letting on. Nor can he guess why a half-remembered nightmare seems to haunt his every move.

Rinse and repeat. Because time loops suck, apparently.

*******

Author: aurevell

This author has 11 Teen Wolf fics under their belt. 5 Sterek and 6 Steter. Happy rummaging!

**********

the teeth right down to the blood by sazzafraz on Archive of Our Own

Words: 2133

Chapters: 1/1

Summary:

‘We’re pretty fucked right now.’ Scott says. Stiles doesn’t speak but there’s something singing in his bones that says Scott got the message anyway. (In which both are bit and things are gruesome.)

This has a sprinkling of Scott/Stiles, Scott/Stiles/Peter, and Scott/Allison as well as Steter, but it's worth the read, a good story with an interesting concept.

*********

Author: sazzafraz

This author doesn't have that many Steter stories, although they do have a few. Although they do have some pretty lengthy Teen Wolf fics about other characters of the show.

***********

Everything goes (wow) by midmorning_bomb on Archive of Our Own

Words: 8215

Chapters: 5/5

Part 1 of the Aranea & Babewolf series

Summary:

It was supposed to go like this:

1. Peter summons demon to the circle.

2. Demon remains in said circle until Peter outlines their contract.

3. Demon agrees to elegantly crafted contract, becoming loyally bound to Peter and Peter alone.

Instead, the creature steps casually out of the circle, tosses its things onto the leather sofa, and starts immediately meddling in Peter’s immaculate space, touching all of Peter’s very expensive things.

*********

It's only by midmorning_bomb on Archive of Our Own

Words: 2905

Chapters: 3/5

Part 2 of the Aranea & Babewolf series

Summary:

“Darling, please don’t pout.”

“You’re pouting.” Stiles pouts, from the upper corner of the library, everything from his hip bones down an angry mass of hissing fangs and venomous chelicerae. “Why would we ever go back to that garbage town? Everyone there is the worst, the only good thing is the very rad and awesome curse I laid.”

*********

You are a memory by midmorning_bomb on Archive of Our Own

Words: 900

Chapters: 1/1

Part 2 of the Little glimpse series

Summary:

If he has to bleed to breathe warmth back into Peter’s icy body, he will.

Because Peter’s done the same for him.

********

Author: midmorning_bomb

This author has 16 Steter fics. A little unfriendly to some of the other characters, but it's only kind of obvious because it's not subtle about it, and not exactly underserved. Has some really interesting ideas as well as some kind, well developed Steter. Definitely have a read through.

***********

[jananakookie]

Beauty | kth - Chapter 5

Pairing: Taehyung x OC (Reader) , slight Jimin x OC

Genre/Tags: Strangers to Lovers, Idiots to lovers (kinda), single dad; humor (-ish?), slow burn, angst, fluff, smut

Chapter Warnings: Non really, just your average dose of swearing

Word count: 8k

Series summary: Taehyung knows what beauty is. He sees it every day.

You feel like you haven’t seen real beauty in a while but you think you remember what it looked like.

Or maybe you both have no idea?

A/N: So I actually wanted to publish this chapter over an hour ago but then I started editing and casually added another 900+ words 🙃

But here it is now and I really hope you enjoy reading it :)

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Chapter 5

Unlike most other people your age, you’ve totally ditched that weird phase everybody else had when they suddenly started hating children for no reason whatsoever. When you think back to your school days or even the couple of years after that, it seemed to be some sort of trend but somehow you never found yourself to be part of it.

Instead, you were always one of the rare teenagers that adored children.

You know they can be a handful. They’re loud, they don’t have any filters and tend to embarrass you whenever they feel like it and they can sometimes even be a “little“ annoying when they just won’t understand that you don’t have time to play right now. You grew up with children, having lots of young cousins probably toughened you up at an early age.

But there’s so much more to children that most of those people don’t even realize.

They’re cute, they’e funny, they are much less complicated than any adult will ever be because they actually say what they feel and think without making up a shit ton of lies. And then there’s the emotional aspect because children can give you so much joy. It’s actually quite incredible seeing them grow each day, learn new things and getting excited by almost everything.

As you watch Hyejin happily jump around inside the flower shop, that came to be your second home in Seoul, you can’t help the look of absolute adoration covering your face. She wanders around as if she’s in some sort of magic forest and if what you heard is correct, that’s exactly the game she’s playing right now. She said something about how she needs to find the dragon and kill the witch or something.

Today marks exactly four weeks since you started looking after her and it’s going quite well so far. You don’t have to watch her everyday since Taehyung is fortunate enough to shift his working hours to the early morning at times. Even if you remind him all the time that you’d love to have Hyejin by your side every day, he insists on giving you at least two days a week off for you to relax. What he doesn’t know though, there’s nothing for you to do on your own but you don’t want to tell him that. Not yet at least.

So even if you’ve taken care of Hyejin for four weeks now, today is the first day that you’ve taken her to your other work — your actual working place — the flower shop. It’s not like you’ve spent all your days in Taehyung and Jungkook’s apartment, no you’ve taken Hyejin out to see a movie, eat ice cream — without losing her — and do lots of other stuff outside but there’s never been a chance before today to take her to your own apartment or the flower shop but since Mr. and Mrs. Yang are both absent today and Yoongi needs your help, there was no other option.

At first you were afraid it could easily become way too boring for Hyejin after a while and that she would start getting annoyed by you having to work and thus not having time to play but fortunately that isn’t the case at all.

This little girl is absolutely capable of keeping herself busy, “Don’t move! You’re trapped. Now get on your knees and beg for your life you mean orc!“

Laughing silently with your hand covering your mouth, you watch in amusement as Hyejin jumps around with a playful frown on her face while hitting Yoongi with an empty kitchen paper roll, that even has some symbols painted on it as if it’s a real sword.

“Who are you calling mean orc, you little dwarf? I could nudge you with my little finger and you would fall over in an instant.“ Yoongi being Yoongi, only grunts at her before he turns his attention back on his phone, while watering some of the plants that are placed right in front of the display window.

Hyejin groans, frown now turning more serious as she continues to look at him with her “sword“ still drawn on him. “Nooo, you’re doing it all wrong!“ She stumps her little feet on the ground in an annoyed manner, making Yoongi look up again. “You have to beg for your life now because I obviously have you in a tight spot!“

“Or what?“ He challenges.

Hyejin grins slightly. “Or I’ll just have to kill you with my sword.“ She confidently says tightening her grip on her self-made sword.

“Oooh, I’m so scared. What are you gonna do, stab me with your lame, little cardboard tube—Ouch! What the…“ Before Yoongi or you even realize what’s happening, Hyejin skillfully jumps onto some of the stacked boxes which are placed right next to Yoongi and starts to hit him with the kitchen roll.

“My daddy made this for me so you better be nice about it, do you hear me!?“ She screams, hitting him like no end.

It takes you a few seconds to decide what to do. On one hand you know that — as an adult, who’s responsible for this little child — you should probably help him, on the other hand it's a lot of fun to see how someone as small as her stands up to him without any struggle. And it’s also incredibly cute how she tries to defend her father’s crafting skills.

Nevertheless, you ultimately decide to help him. But not before you think he's learned his lesson though.

“Alright, alright Hyejin, please stop.“ You walk up to her and try to take her off of Yoongi, which isn’t as easy as it sounds because the little one is quite the fighter. You somehow still get to take her in you arms and lift her off the boxes before you set her on the ground again.

“Holy shit, what in hell did you bring here!?“ Yoongi loudly exclaims, looking at you with a frightened face, that almost makes you laugh.

“That’s a bad word! You’re not supposed to say that in front of a child.“ Hyejin then says, still looking very mad at him.

“Oh great. Not only is she fu—fricking aggressive, she’s also a little smartypants.“ Yoongi says, frowning at you.

“She’s a child, Yoongi. Watch your mouth.“ You sigh.

“Oh? And why do you bring a child here, knowing I don’t like them?“ He asks you, rubbing his head where she hit him just a few minutes ago.

“How was I supposed to know that!“ You snap, getting quite annoyed with him yourself.

“___, I barely get along with adults. How in god’s name did you come to the conclusion that I like children?“ He reasons, watching you intently.

You open and close your mouth a few times without anything coming out because yeah… How did you actually come to that conclusion?

“Look at her, she’s absolutely adorable. How can you not instantly fall in love with her?“ You whine as you try by all means to turn his head in Hyejin’s direction. The little girl on the other hand, sends an absolute death-glare at Yoongi, who then looks at you with an unimpressed face.

“How about you ask me this question again in a few days, after my concussion subsided.“ He then says, making you simply roll your eyes at him.

You sigh and get on one knee, to be on eye level with Hyejin. “Honey, you can’t just hit people with you sword just because they say something you don’t like, alright?“ You try to tell her but it doesn’t look like she agrees.

“But he was being mean.“ She grunts, crossing her arms in front of her chest and you need to suppress a laugh because in that moment, she looks exactly like Taehyung when he’s mad at something Jungkook did.

“I know but he didn’t mean it like that, Hyejin.“

“Yes I did—“

“I said, he didn’t mean it like that.“ You cut him off, repeating your words a little louder this time so he would catch on. He only huffs and stays quiet at least. “Look, that’s just how he is, darling. He doesn’t really know how to be anything but mean but he actually means well.“

“I don’t understand that.“ Hyejin says, giving you a puzzled look.

“I don’t either but he’s my friend and I want you to be nice to my friends, can you do that?“ You ask her, offering her your biggest smile.

“Why would you be friends with him?“ She asks you instead, looking indeed very confused. Just the mix of her puzzled and Yoongi's attacked facial expression almost makes you laugh, but you decide to stay serious and only give her a look that’s supposed to tell her what you think of her saying stuff like that.

And it works because Hyejin finally groans loudly and nods, “Okay… but only if he says my sword isn’t lame.“

You expectantly look at Yoongi who only raises a brow. “That’s a joke, isn’t it?“ But seeing that you absolutely mean it, he lets out an annoyed groan as well before hesitantly looking at Hyejin. “Okay fine… Your sword is kinda cool. I had one too when I was your age.“ He mumbles.

Hyejin immediately grins from ear to ear and happily runs to him, hugging his legs in the process. Yoongi awkwardly stands there and lightly pats her back a few times before looking at you with an alarmed expression on his face.

You actually find it kinda cute. Both of them. You love how Hyejin never seems to hold a grudge for long but then again, most kids don’t. They just want to play and have fun. And you know that Yoongi doesn’t really hate her, he just doesn’t want to come off as soft.

“Alright little heroine, I gotta go now. I need to work.“ Yoongi awkwardly coughs and tries to successfully peel her off of him. You smirk at him as he gives you a short nod before walking away without another word.

You know he thinks she’s cute. You know it. But he would never admit it.

“Darling, your dad will probably be here in a few minutes. Make sure you have all your toys ready when he’s here.“ You call out to her when you realize, she’s already on her way to kill the witch again.

Hyejin immediately stops her game and whips around to look at you with big puppy-eyes. “But I don’t wanna go home so soon!“ She whines, trotting towards you.

You pout and take her into a hug. “I’m sorry darling, your dad texted me. He finished a little earlier today and he’s on his way right now.“

“But can I come back tomorrow then? I love it here there’s sooo many colors and flowers it’s like a garden but inside.“ She asks you with hope clear in her voice. You chuckle at her funny comparison before gently stroking her hair, heart clenching at her sad posture.

“I’m afraid we won’t see each other for a few days, baby.“ You carefully watch her as her eyes become teary. Mouth falling open in disbelieve, “I have to go home for a while and help my mum because my dad doesn’t feel well. You understand that, don’t you?“

You watch as her lips start to quiver and she stubbornly shakes her head. “No. We need you here too. Please don’t leave!“

You feel like you might cry with her when you suddenly hear someone clearing their throat. You lift your head and see Taehyung already here, leaning against the door frame and watching you both with a sad smile on his lips. “Hyejin, please don’t make her feel guilty. ___ has a mum and a dad too who want to see her and need her help from time to time.“

He takes a few slow steps towards you and gives you an apologetic smile before he takes the sniffing princess in his arms.

“I don’t want her to leave, daddy. Make her stay please.“ She sobs in the collar of his shirt, probably soaking it in the act but he doesn’t seem to care about that as he pulls her a little tighter and looks at you apologetically.

You don’t even know what to say to this. You expected her to be a little sad and pouty about it but you would’ve never guessed that she’d be that heart broken.

“Hyejin. I know you love her but you have to understand that there are other people who love her just as much. You can’t keep her all to yourself, honey.“ He chuckles lightly, looking at you.

“No. They don’t love her as much as I do.“ She cries again, burying her head deeper inside her dad’s chest.

You actually find it quite cute how much she already seems to miss you, even if your still standing right in front of her. The scene that’s unfolding right now doesn’t make you smile like you actually want to though.

“Look, Hyejin.“ You carefully try to make her look at you by walking around Taehyung, not knowing how she would react because she seems to not want to see you right now. Surprisingly, she doesn’t back away and instead looks at you with red, tear stained eyes. “My dad has had a very bad pain in his arm for years now and now he had to take surgery, do you know what that means?“

She nods her head as she wipes her snotty nose on her sleeves. “It means he had to go to the hospital.“ She answers.

You nod approvingly, offering her a wide smile. “Exactly. And now he can’t move his arm, which means my mum has to do everything by herself and I don’t want my mum to get stressed out, do you understand?“ You ask her again and she once again nods her head, making a proud smile appear on your lips.

“So you understand why I have to leave now?“

Hyejin hesitates for a second but finally nods again. “But you can take me and daddy with you.“ She suddenly proposes, making Taehyung snort before he carefully sets her down again. You and Taehyung both get down on her eye level, Taehyung holding her at her shoulders.

“Darling, she can’t just take us with her. Besides I have a job to attend to and do you really want to leave uncle Jungkook home alone?“ He jokes making her eyes widen in shock.

“We can’t do that, he easily gets scared when it’s dark.“ She whispers.

You and Taehyung both suppress your laughs for the sake of keeping the conversation a little serious. “Exactly. We can’t do that to him.“ Taehyung agrees.

“But we can help ___’s mum too! And then she can come back way sooner!“ Hyejin tries to reason again.

“Why are you such a smart girl?“ Taehyung proudly looks at his daughter, stroking her tears out of her face. “___ won’t be gone for long, right?“ He then looks at you, followed by Hyejin, both of them kinda have the same look of desperateness on their faces, though probably for different reasons.

Taehyung actually needs to hear the answer from you too. You already talked to him about it yesterday, after you had a long phone call with you mother, who absolutely wanted to get you to stay in Seoul and tried by all means to make you believe that she was fine. But you know your mother and she would never admit it if she needs any help so you rather take matters into your own hands.

“I promise you, that I'll be back so quickly you won't even have the chance to miss me.“ You put one hand over your heart while you hold the other one up and wink at Hyejin who finally shows a small, insecure smile.

“That’s something you probably shouldn’t promise because I can guarantee you, she will miss you right after we leave today.“ Taehyung buts in. You simply roll your eyes at him before you give Hyejin a big hug.

Taehyung quietly watches you two together. It makes his heart melt, seeing his daughter be so irrevocably attached to you and seeing you acting the same way around her. He’s so incredibly happy the universe send someone like you to give his daughter something she desired for such a long time but neither him nor his friends could ever give her. A mother figure.

Without noticing, he begins to stare as he does so often. He only shakes himself out of it when he sees you look at him questioningly, with slight rosy cheeks. He coughs quietly and acts as if nothing happened but he knows you noticed.

“Okay, darling. Go get you stuff. We don’t want to keep ___ from work any longer.“ He then says, wanting to talk to you alone for a bit, without Hyejin being glued to your leg.

“You guys could never. I love having you around.“ You honestly tell him the second Hyejin reluctantly leaves to get her stuff.

“You see, you say that all the time but I can’t understand why. Not even my own mother can bear us for as long as you can.“ He says, making you laugh in return.

“That’s definitely not true and you know it.“

Taehyung only shrugs. “Was everything okay today? She didn’t cause you any trouble being here, did she?“ He then asks you, fearing that there might’ve been a problem, seeing as this was the first time you had to take her to work with you. He feels bad putting his problems on you, just so he can have it easier.

“No, no, everything is alright. Don’t you worry.“ You smile brightly. “I mean, she did have quite the encounter with grouchy Yoongi back there but they got to work it out.“ You chuckle as you think back to her beating Yoongi up with a piece of cardboard.

“Oh no, was he mad?“ Taehyung asks, looking concerned.

You only laugh it off, lifting a brow in the process. “It’s Yoongi. He’s always mad at everyone and life in general.“

Taehyung has only met Yoongi a quick couple of times and he never really got to talk to him but he can see that he definitely means a lot to you. You always talk about him with a slight glint in your eyes, even if you barely ever have anything good to say about him.

Before he can say anything further, Hyejin already comes back looking very displeased. “Daddy, I can’t find my backpack anywhere.“ She pouts.

“Well it has to be here somewhere. Go look for it.“ Taehyung sighs looking around himself.

“You know what, I think we may have left it upstairs in my apartment. Could it be there, Hyejin?“ You ponder as you go through all the places you've been today. Luckily there weren’t many.

Hyejin’s face immediately lights up as she nods her head. “Yes, I left it on the table!“ She nearly screams, making you and Taehyung cringe from the noise.

“Alright, let me just tell Yoongi real quick that he has to take the counter for a few minutes and then we can go upstairs.“ You tell them before you’re already on your way to the back of the shop.

As you already expected, Yoongi made himself comfortable between two large flower bouquets, “resting his eyes“ as he would call it. Forming your eyes into slits, you cross your arms over your chest before kicking his leg until he wakes up in a rush.

“Are you being serious right now?“ You grunt at him. “Tell me you didn’t need me to come here today, for you to take a nap during working hours.“ You frown, looking at him expectantly.

“Uh… I didn’t need you to come here today, so I can take a nap during working hours?“ Yoongi smiles apologetically.

“You have to be kidding me…“ You shake your head and try to look annoyed with him, while you have to admit that it’s such a Yoongi thing to do. You could’ve thought of that yourself.

“You can’t be mad at me. I’ve taken over most of your shifts for the past month, just so you can play house with a fucking male model and his hyperactive daughter.“ Yoongi says, a proud smirk covering his face as he sees the way you blush at his comment.

“I’m not—… It’s not— We’re not playing house.“ You try to defend yourself but fail as soon as your voice gets way higher than it actually is, which just makes you blush even more.

Yoongi laughs. He obviously enjoys you being in this uncomfortable state. “I was actually just kidding but seeing how you react to it, makes me think there might be something going on there.“

You swear you’re close to slapping that stupid grin out of his face but you do what you do best and casually try to ignore him.

“I know you’re just joking. As if someone like him would actually go for someone like me.“ You scoff, looking at him with a bored expression.

“What do you mean by that?“ He asks, looking closely.

You sigh loudly, just wanting to run away at the moment. “Do I have to remind you of anything concerning my face?“ You ask him, not exactly wanting to address the elephant in the room.

Yoongi immediately seems to interpret something into your words which you didn’t mean and frowns deeply. “No, because I’m looking at you right now and I don’t see anything wrong with you. Did he say anything to you?“ And suddenly your little bickering is about to take a turn you really didn’t intent on taking.

“Of course not, don’t be ridiculous. He isn’t like that. He wouldn’t say it out loud…“ You sigh. You see how he wants to say something else to that, actually looking at you with a serious expression but you don’t feel like having this conversation right now so you quickly change the topic to say what you originally came here for.

“Can you please go behind the counter and watch the shop for a few minutes? I have to go upstairs in my apartment because Hyejin left her backpack there and her dad is here to pick her up.“

Yoongi doesn’t look very happy, but agrees whatsoever.

When you arrive back at the shop entry with Yoongi hot on your heels, the first thing you see is Taehyung looking at the many different flower bouquets as Hyejin tells him something about them, like what flowers there are and whatever. You smile to yourself because she asked you about all the different flower species as soon as she stepped foot into the shop and now she proudly passes her knowledge on to her dad, who looks equally as impressed.

“Alright guys, we can go. Yoongi is kind enough to take over, even tough he’s very busy himself.“ You smirk, watching him roll his eyes next to you because of your obvious sarcasm.

Taehyung turns around, looking at you both for a mere second before he comes a little closer to shake Yoongi’s hand with a smile on his face. “Hey man, I don’t think we properly met before. I’m Taehyung.“

Yoongi takes his hand in his, actually putting something that looks like a smile on his face as he inspects the man in front of him further. “Yoongi. Nice to meet you.“ He introduces himself before nodding his head at Hyejin. “You’re going home already, little heroine?“ He then asks her, surprising you. You wouldn’t have guessed that he’d start a conversation since he almost never starts a conversation when he doesn’t have to.

Hyejin nods, pouting again. “Yes, my daddy said I have to.“ She sighs a little over dramatically. “I like this place sooo much. It’s so pretty. And I like spending time with ___.“

Taehyung chuckles, ruffling her hair and making her protest. “Don’t be so dramatic, you will come back, darling.“

You watch as Yoongi takes out a single Astilbe flower from one of the bouquets and gives it to Hyejin with a small smile on his face. “___ told you a little bit about flowers, didn’t she?“ He asks her when she cautiously and somewhat uncertainly accepts the flower.

Hyejin nods and continues to look at him with curious eyes.

“Did she tell you something about this one?“ He then asks her.

She shakes her head, eyes growing bigger with every passing second.

“That’s an Astilbe flower. It symbolizes patience and means that we’ll be waiting for you to come back.“ He winks, making her blush in the process. “You can keep it.“

You only stare at Yoongi in pure disbelieve while Taehyung nudges Hyejin, who suddenly becomes shy and stares at Yoongi with big googly eyes. “What do you say to that?“

“Thank you.“ Hyejin nearly whispers, face as red as a fire truck.

Looks like someone just developed her first crush. You think, hiding a smile, as you look at Taehyung who also looks at you with a slight grin on his face.

“How come you never give me flowers?“ You ask Yoongi in a joking manner, raising a brow in the process.

Yoongi turns his head back to you, face almost instantly falling back into its typical bored expression. “I dedicate my soulful side only to special women.“ He carelessly answers, making you scoff in the process.

“Okay guys, let’s go. We don't want to prevent Yoongi from getting back to his important work.“ You say towards Taehyung and Hyejin, the latter still focused on Yoongi with pink cheeks.

“___, do you have a vessel for my pretty flower?“ Hyejin asks you as soon as you step into your apartment.

You chuckle, nodding your head. “Yes honey, let me just check real quick.“ You throw your keys onto the table, where Hyejin’s backpack is placed and walk into the kitchen to look for a small jar.

You don’t notice Taehyung following you until you whip around, wanting to look somewhere else and nearly crash into him. He quickly catches you though, holding your arms tightly to prevent you from colliding with him and hurting yourself.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. I just wanted to… Actually I don’t know.“ He chuckles uncomfortably, hand scratching the back of his neck again, making you grin wildly.

“It’s okay, I just wasn’t prepared for someone standing so close behind me when it’s usually just me in here.“ You say, also getting a little flustered by his close proximity. Not to forget that he’s still touching you with one hand, unknowingly warming the skin on your right upper arm.

He doesn’t seem to realize it though and you yourself only really notice it when he suddenly pulls his hand back, focusing his attention on something behind you.

“Woah, what happened there?“ He asks you pointing his finger at one of your hanging kitchen cabinets that is actually barely hanging and threatens to crash onto the worktop every minute.

“Oh that… It’s been like this for a few months now actually… I can’t fix it and I always forget to call someone to do it for me.“ You laugh a little awkwardly, embarrassed that he’s seen it. You don't want him to think of you as some kind of slob or something.

His interest in it seems to lay somewhere else though. “Damn ___ that’s not safe. It looks like it could come crashing down any moment now.“ He frowns looking at you with a look you cannot quite assign.

“Ah, it’s not a big deal. Like I said, it’s been like this for months now.“ You assure him but it doesn’t seem to calm him down.

“I can fix it for you if you want.“ He suddenly offers, surprising you.

“You can do that?“ You ask him, a little amazed. It's not that you think he can’t do it but he also doesn't look like someone who does manual repairs in his spare time.

Taehyung looks pretty confident though, already walking towards it. “Do you have a screwdriver?“ He asks you.

You tell him to wait a second before you walk out of the room to look for the little toolbox your father got you when you first moved out because apparently “everybody needs a toolbox“. You never used it before, obviously not being very useful when it comes to repairs. To be fair, you never needed it until now because you always had Jimin to take care of those kinds of things.

You hand Taehyung your little tool kit and he immediately gets to work, lifting himself up to sit on the counter while carefully unscrewing all of the screws before he cautiously puts the cabinet on the floor. You watch him, casually making conversation and enjoying the view because damn… how have you never noticed before that he actually has fairly defined muscles? It’s the first time you notice how strong is arms look when he lifts the — certainly not exactly light — kitchen cupboard up to put it back on the wall.

You almost shamelessly check him out while he innocently tries to repair your broken cupboard, holding the screws and nails securely between his lips.

He suddenly slips with the screwdriver, making a noise which shakes you out of your thoughts with a quiet shriek. Taehyung still notices though and offers you an apologetic smile. “Sorry, I slipped.“

You clear your throat, suddenly getting hot because of the embarrassment you feel from actually checking him out like that when he innocently tries to help you. You really just checked him out!

What the heck? You’re definitely alone for too long…

As you further inspect him now, you can’t believe how deep in thought you must’ve been while staring at him, when you didn’t even notice before that he looks like he doesn’t for the life of him know what he’s doing. It’s only now that you see him looking confused at the scenery in front of him like he's thinking hard about what to do next and it’s as cute as it’s worrying.

“Hey, is everything alright? Can I help you or something?“ You carefully ask him, trying to hide the smirk that forms itself because of his confused demeanor.

Hearing your voice, he instantly whips his head around to look at you. “Huh? No! No… everything’s alright, I’m absolutely fine.“ He uncomfortably laughs but his eyes show a completely different emotion.

After a while of him struggling further but not admitting it, you decide to leave him be and call Yoongi instead to inform him that it will take just a few more minutes until you come back. Let’s just say he’s not very amused by your announcement, actually hating to stay behind the counter, having to talk to customers and actually be decent to them. He throws a couple bad jokes your way that all more or less have to do with “at least hold on until the poor child is not around“ but you just ignore him and simply hang up instead.

You walk back into the kitchen, checking on Hyejin on the way who’s happily running around, playing with her sword again and you put her flower in a little vessel filled with water.

You look at her for a little while, eyes growing soft. There’s no way you won’t be missing her as soon as you’re back in Busan by tomorrow.

You’re just about to take a quick stop and cuddle her when Taehyung calls you and tells you to come to the kitchen. So you walk to him instead but Hyejin, being as noisy as always, follows you hot on your heels.

The first thing you see when you walk into the kitchen is an overly happy Taehyung wearing the biggest smile you’ve ever seen as he proudly points to the cabinet tat’s successfully hanging on the wall again.

“Wow, you actually did it.“ You say slightly cringing by the huge amount of surprise that’s laced in your voice and makes Taehyung raise a brow in question.

“Of course, I told you I would.“ He only says watching your every move as you inspect his masterpiece carefully.

“What did you do, daddy?“ Hyejin’s small voice finally comes through, as she’s looking around the kitchen but doesn’t see anything new.

“Oh nothing much darling, I just quickly repaired ___ 's kitchen cabinet.“ He says, feeling kinda cool as he swings an hammer in his hand, before he almost lets it slip and tries to cover it up, hoping no one would’ve noticed.

After Taehyung's answer, Hyejin doesn't seem to find the spectacle so interesting anymore and immediately runs away again.

Taehyung scoffs at her disinterest at his craftsmanship but ignores her, turning his full attention on you instead. “Go on, you can start to put all your stuff back in there.“ He points at the glasses and cups you kept next to your sink, since the day the cabinet started to fall down. Just in case it would come crashing down suddenly and break everything inside.

You’re about to, when something catches your eyes, making you hesitant. “Uhm Tae…“ You carefully start, “Why are there so many screws and nails lying around here?“ You ask him, looking at him with a puzzled look on your face while he just casually shrugs it off.

“I just had too many. Those are the ones I didn’t need.“ He simply answers, not easing your worries in the slightest.

“But they were also built into it before, weren't they?“ You ask, watching him. “How come they found them to be important in the original setup but now they suddenly aren’t needed any longer?“

Taehyung only smiles at you, taking an empty glass into his hand and coming a few steps closer to you. “Oh ___,“ He chuckles, “That's what craftsmen always do. They usually use more materials than they actually have to because that ensures that the products do not fall apart before the warranty period expires.“ He tells you, as if it’s common knowledge.

You’re pretty sure that doesn’t make any sense and as sorry as you are, you trust the awkwardly nailed-together thing even less than you did before. You don’t want to tell Taehyung though because he actually looks so proud of himself. And that’s why you watch in awe when he opens the cabinet, puts the single glass inside and doesn’t even get the chance to change his facial expression from a wide smile to… well, anything else before everything comes crashing down in a loud crash.

For a little while nobody says a word before Taehyung grunts loudly, staring at nothing while muttering something under his breath that definitely sounds like a swear. You on the other hand can’t help but laugh loudly which makes him look at you in surprise.

“I guess I’ll just call a real expert then, as soon as I’m back home.“ You chuckle as soon as you calmed down a little.

Taehyung looks at you apologetically but obviously can’t help but laugh as well as he shakes his head. “I just wanted to be the one to help you this time… Now I feel stupid.“

“No, don’t. It’s… Maybe you should’ve used all of the materials though.“ You say thoughtfully as you look at the little pile of misery that used to be your cupboard.

Taehyung, doing his signature neck scratch, stares at it as well. “I mean… In some way I may have saved your life just now because this thing was definitely about to fall down anyway. What if you had been standing under it right then? It would’ve crashed you.“ He shrugs, watching your reaction closely.

You smile, “So what you’re saying is, you’re practically my hero because you broke my cupboard before it could break on its own?“ You frown, lifting one eyebrow in the process.

“I would have phrased it a little differently but in the end I probably can't turn the truth away from myself.“ Taehyung shrugs, sending a confident smirk your way. “You’re welcome, princess.“

Desperately trying to not get flustered by the new nickname he called you, you simply try to laugh it off. But it’s easier said than done when he’s looking at you like that and standing so close to you…

“We should probably go now before your friend kills us.“ He suddenly says in a much more quiet voice than before.

You know he’s right, even though you really don’t want them to go. Knowing you won’t see them for a little while now doesn’t help either. You already know you will miss all of them terribly. Hopefully your dad’s arm heals just fine so you can come back as soon as possible.

With a crying Hyejin clinging on to your leg, you try to say goodbye to the pair, having to get back to work and help Yoongi with the shop. She started crying again as soon as Taehyung called for her to stop running around and say goodbye to you, throwing a tantrum and refusing to come with him.

Taehyung looks so uncomfortable right now and you actually feel sorry for not only him but Hyejin as well because she looks actually heartbroken. She probably doesn’t understand yet why you have to leave and that you’re coming back very soon but you can understand that it’s nerve wrecking for Taehyung.

“My god Hyejin, she isn’t leaving for god knows how long. She’ll be back in a few weeks — if even.“ He sighs, touching her shoulder but she shakes it off, not wanting him to get her off of you. “We already talked about that and you understood, remember?“

“But I changed my mind. I don’t want to understand anymore.“ She cries.

He groans, running his hand through his hair and looks at you. “I’m so sorry, ___. This is embarrassing.“

You offer him a smile, signaling that everything is fine and he shouldn’t feel sorry. “It’s actually kinda cute.“ You mouth to him but judging by his facial expression, he doesn’t seem to feel the same way.

Wanting to help out a little, you try to talk to Hyejin one more time in hope she’d stop her crying. “Hyejin, please don’t cry my dear. I promise you can call me every day at any time and I’ll answer, okay?“Her big, glassy eyes look at you in pure disappointment, making your heart break all over again.

“Promise?“ She whines.

With a big smile, you stretch your pinky out and hold it in front of her tiny face. “Pinky promise, little one.“

Hyejin hesitates for a second but finally decides to hook er pinky in yours to seal the promise.

“See? The promise can’t be broken anymore.“ You grin.

“Great… Just wait until she can’t sleep and wants to chat at one am or something.“ Taehyung buts in.

You look up at him and shrug your shoulders in disinterest. “Then I guess you’ll just have to call me at one in the morning.“

“Awesome.“ He mutters lowly, not saying anything else to this while you give Hyejin a final big hug.

“I will miss you so much, my little princess. Please take good care of your uncles and your dad while I’m gone, okay?“ You feel Hyejin nodding her head as she buries her face in your neck, nearly suffocating you.

Taehyung smiles at the heartwarming sight in front of him. “You’re leaving tonight, right?“ He asks and unintentionally gets you out of your and Hyejin’s little moment.

You nod, standing up again. “Yes. This way I can start fresh tomorrow.“

“Well, do you need me to drive you anywhere? The airport or something?“ He asks growing a little restless for whatever reason.

“Oh thank you so much, Tae but Yoongi already offered to drive me to the train station after we closed the shop today. He said he needs to run some errands anyway; but between us both? I bet he’ll miss me and wants to spend some time together.“ You wink at him, laughing about your own assumption.

Taehyung won’t tell you but he’s actually a little bummed. Call it selfishness or whatever but he wanted to drive you for the same reason… kinda. He wanted to because of Hyejin in the first place. He just wanted to give his daughter the chance to have you around for a little while longer. He still forces a smile on his face and nods, not saying what he actually wants to say.

“Okay come on, Hyejin. We’ll let ___ get back to work now.“ He smiles at his daughter — a real smile this time — and takes her little hand in his. Hyejin still seems reluctant but offers you her other hand, making you and him each holding a hand of hers. If someone would see you right now and didn’t know any better, they’d probably think you’re a little family.

Taehyung almost blushes at his stupid thought, shaking his head while he also wears an angry frown on his face. He can’t believe he has such immature thoughts running around his mind. What the actual fuck?

When the three of you come out of the building, Yoongi is also standing outside, watering some flowers. He stops when he sees you though and Taehyung can see him mustering not only your hands but you as a whole. For a second he asks himself if Yoongi maybe had the same thought that was clouding his mind just a minute ago, but he probably just misinterpreted his glance.

“So you are still alive then.“ Yoongi simply states when you’re right in front of him.

“What do you mean, I called you to say that it’ll take a little while longer.“ You huff. “Taehyung tried to repair my kitchen cabinet.“

“Oh, so that means it’s no longer on the verge of killing you?“ He asks, his attention now more on Taehyung.

The younger man raises his brows, looking from Yoongi to you and back at Yoongi when he sees you simply suppressing a laugh. “Yeah, no… Yeah I think you could say that.“ He stutters, feeling his ears get a little warm. “It definitely won’t kill her anymore.“ Taehyung smiles, even showing his teeth and ignores the way Yoongi looks at him funnily.

“Cool.“ Yoongi then says before getting back to watering the flower pots without another comment.

Well that was easy.

Despite not having exchanged a lot of words with Yoongi, Taehyung can’t help but like this guy. He seems to be very straightforward but in some way also caring. Just like when he tried to cheer Hyejin up with the little flower back then. And he seems to have a special place in your heart, which means that he simply has to be a good guy. Otherwise, someone like you wouldn’t get along with him.

“Good, I’ll let you guys go then.“ You suddenly say and bring him back to the sobering reality in which they finally have to say goodbye — for good this time. What Taehyung has not yet realized though, is that this time you are addressing him in particular. He only really becomes aware of it when he looks into your warm eyes and sees you looking at him as well. And as if that wasn’t enough already to make him get flustered, he doesn’t even get the chance to think clearly before you throw your petit arms around his body and embrace him in a tight hug.

Although he is surprised at your sudden initiative, he doesn't even need a blink of an eye to return the hug. Since that day at his apartment and that awkward arm around you shoulder move he pulled, he didn’t dare touch you again like that — in fear he could make you uncomfortable. But now you’re doing the first step and he enjoys it more than he probably should. He can perceive your scent — sunscreen and cinnamon — with just the littlest sniff of his nose right now and he already knows that he probably won’t get it out of his head for the next couple of days.

It feels good to hold you like this because until now he has only watched you get so close to Jungkook and even Namjoon but you never come to him and he just doesn’t understand why. Maybe there is just something about him that you don't like. Is he too rough, too intimidating, too aloof? Is it something he said or something he did? Do you just not like him? He doesn’t want to admit how his stomach drops every time he thinks about that specific possibility. Or maybe he was wrong and deep inside you aren’t over that little incident at the café last month… Maybe you think he’s a creep?

Whatever the reason might be, all these thoughts vanish the moment you embrace him as if you’d do it all the time; and in that moment, he doesn’t really care. It simply doesn’t matter right now.

He sinks too much into the feeling of pure comfort you’re giving him right now to notice the little “disgusting,“ which Yoongi mutters under his breath when he takes a quick glance at you both.

You, however, do hear it and quickly let him go while you look at him intensely.

You don't allow him to say anything to you though, when you turn your head at Hyejin and grin. “You know what to do, little one,“ you only wink and ruffle her hair, knowing how much she actually hates it but wanting to end the day on a lighter note.

Taehyung is about to say one last goodbye when an elderly lady suddenly comes walking in your direction and sends a happy and bright smile your way as she walks by. “Oh dear, that’s such a pretty flower you have there.“ She says, pointing at the little flower Hyejin immediately took back from Taehyung as soon as she had her hands free again.

Hyejin, although being a little shy around the stranger, nevertheless smiles proudly at her and nods her head. “Thank you. It’s an Astilbe flower and it means they can’t wait to see me again.“ From the corner of you eye you see Yoongi desperately trying to hold back a smile but it’s too late — you’ve seen it and you will never ever let him forget about it.

“Oh, if that isn’t nice,“ she laughs. “Where did you get it from?“ The lady further asks, smiling at you and Taehyung as she does so.

Hyejin blushes a little and points at Yoongi, who’s also looking at her right now. “I got it from my boyfriend.“ She then raves, in a small but confident voice, proudly grinning at the man who’s standing only a few meters away from her.

In the few seconds that follow after, Hyejin is the only one looking very happy while making heart-eyes at Yoongi, while Taehyung almost dies from a coughing fit, Yoongi nearly drowns all the flowers while violently blushing, you just standing there in shock while your heart bursts from all the cuteness and the lady looks at all of you as if you’ve each grown two heads.

After a few seconds of pure silence, she simply gives you all a little awkward smile before she walks away without another word — probably ready to call the FBI or something.

Needless to say, you definitely got to end the day on a lighter note instead of ending it in tears like you originally feared.

Copyright © 2021 jananakookie please do not repost, and thank you for reading :)

[drmedicsgamesurgery]

Danganronpa Kirigiri Volume 2 Full Translation Part 1

Thanks to DJ Shocker, Shenmen, Chilly, LiarieCC, and Blackflirtlarping. This is a fully fixed up and complete translation with no missing bits.

Danganronpa Kirigiri Volume 2: The Norman Hotel Detective Auction

Chapter 1: Daily Life

Couples dressed to the nines for Christmas Eve wined and dined in window booths, but due to the height of the building, no matter how much I craned my neck I couldn’t see them satisfactorily.

I must have gotten a little carried away, bouncing around the hall to eagerly check out the outside scenery from the windows of this high-rise building, as I felt someone tug on the sleeve of my coat; Kyoko Kirigiri. She gazed up at me, wordlessly, with cool eyes. I felt almost as if I was being scolded.

“Thank you for waiting! Please come this way.” Both Kirigiri and I followed a waiter into the interior of the hall. Suddenly, an enormous Christmas Tree came into view. A fir tree that must have been imported from abroad, decked out in dazzling star ornaments that were determined not to lose to the lights of the city in terms of brightness.

We found ourselves being led to a wide individual room.

An antique candle holder stood in the center of a table draped in a white cloth, the candles fully aglow.

Napkins and cutlery for three people were already laid out on the table. And the furthest wall was transparent, giving us a scenic view of the city nightscape.

“Woww! This is amazing!” I dashed over to the glass wall without thinking, and gazed out at the city lights twinkling under the night sky.

“Kirigiri, come here!” I called out to Kirigiri, who stood behind me. She seemed to be hesitating. She looked at me with a slightly concerned expression on her face, then approached the giant window. She looked over the city nightscape with pink tinged cheeks, seemingly unable to tear her eyes away from the lights of the city.

“Isn’t it pretty?”

Kirigiri nodded.

“Won’t you tell me how you really feel, out loud?”

“…It’s pretty.”

At this point, Suisei Nanamura entered our private room.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, ladies. I see you’re enjoying my Christmas present to you.”

By ‘present’ did he mean this view?

I suddenly felt a little embarrassed at taking the bait so quickly and backed away from the glass wall, flustered.

Suisei pulled out a chair with a gesture that made it seem like this was something he was well accustomed to. I lowered my head to him in a quick bow and took a seat. I really wasn’t used to how to act in a place as fancy as this.

On the other hand, Kirigiri seemed used to it. She lowered herself onto the chair, almost princess-like, and gave Suisei a casual nod as her thanks.

Kirigiri continued to surprise me, but I think she was essentially a refined and well-mannered kid. When it came to being a detective and solving cases she became cool-headed and almost difficult to approach, but I wondered if that had something to do with being raised in a family of detectives.

Suisei placed the Santa hat he’d been wearing on Kirigiri’s head and sat down opposite her. He didn’t offer any explanation as to why he’d given her the Santa hat, and Kirigiri herself didn’t react.

Well, she looked cute like that so I had no complaints…

“Well, I am a happy man! Having the honor of spending Christmas Eve with such beautiful young ladies…”

After sitting down, Suisei propped both elbows onto the table and rested his chin on top of his hands, suddenly observing us intensely.

I was bewildered by the suggestive look in his eyes.

“W-what ?”

I suddenly found myself feeling very shy.

Suisei had a face as handsome as an actor - he was an attractive man. I had absolutely no objections to joining him for Christmas dinner-

‘“2,000, 9,800, 23,000.” Suisei suddenly rattled off a series of mysterious digits.

“Huh?”

“The price of your glasses, the price of your coat, and the price of your boots.”

“W-what…? How did you…?”

He knew?

The numbers were more or less correct.

“There are many ways to observe other people, and one of the most effective ways is to judge them by the value of what they’re wearing. Through knowing the value of their material possessions - in other words, their quality - is not a method to be overlooked.”

“I - I see."

“Yui Samidare-kun - for example, in your case you’re confident about your legs, so your most valuable possession is your boots. However, from the way your boots are worn down, they don’t seem to be specifically designed for sports. And you’ve chosen to walk down the path of becoming a detective. Aiming to become a detective at such a young age is probably due to something that happened in your past-”

“O-okay, I got it.”

I put both hands up in front of me, as if to evade Suisei’s words. I don’t think I wanted to hear anything else he had to say.

Suisei’s lips curled into a grin and he spread out his arms while gesturing at the clear glass wall.

“7,445,000 yen. The price of everything you can see from here. Along with the price of electricity for every building. The true essence of everything is so beautiful.”

Suisei gave me a smug wink.

Detectives were really hard to understand.

Suisei Nanamura was a Double Zero Class detective. According to the DSC (Detective Shelf Collection) at the Detective Library, his number was 900. The number nine indicated that he dealt primarily with murder investigations, and his double zero was proof of his skills.

In the past there was a detective who, due to the successful handling of his cases, moved up as far as rank three, but that took over 20 years of his career. For Nanamura to hold a double zero at the young age of 37 was, quite simply, incredible. It was not an honor you earned with half-hearted skills.

“Well then, let’s continue talking about the job over dinner.”

Suisei snapped his fingers, and from behind him a waiter appeared to fill his glass with red wine. Two more waiters also appeared by his side as if they were servants attending to a prince.

Since Kirigiri and I were still underage, we were passed a soft drink menu. I chose orange juice, and Kirigiri ordered a coffee.

“Let’s toast to our first meeting - is what I’d like to say, but allow me to refrain. After all, in our world a toast doesn’t signify the start of something, but the end.”

Suisei took a sip of his red wine.

The waiters began to lay out plates in front of Suisei. Usually when it came to French cuisine, every dish was served one by one, but for some reason they continued to pile dish after dish in front of him.

“10 hours, 28 minutes and 49 seconds.” Suisei suddenly rattled off another series of digits.

“That is the time that’s passed since I opened the letter challenging me to this Duel Noir. The time limit from when you open such a letter to who is victorious being decided is 168 hours. For my own sake, I opened the letter at exactly 10 am today.”

Suisei said with a serious expression on his face. However, he hadn’t stopped eating. It occurred to me that most of the food had already disappeared from his plate.

When did he…?

One plate each was placed in front of Kirigiri and me. If we tried to match Suisei’s pace, the food would be devoured before we could even enjoy it.

“Mr Nanamura, how many Duel Noir challenges have you participated in up until now?”

“This would be the fifth time.”

“The f-fifth time?”

“I can only call it bad luck. Out of all the detectives I know, there’s some who’ve never even heard of Duel Noirs. In fact, it’s more likely a detective will hear of Duel Noirs.”

Naturally, Kirigiri and I knew what a Duel Noir was.

Just a little earlier, Kirigiri and I had been wrapped up in one. A Duel Noir was a game organized by an organization called The Victims Catharsis Committee. Both a detective and a criminal engage in a deadly duel. After receiving a letter of challenge from a criminal, the detective will attempt to solve a case in real time.

Unlike what their name suggested, The Victims Catharsis Committee wasn’t a charitable organization at all. Under the name of providing catharsis for victims of crime, the committee lured participants into their game. It seemed that when it came to recruiting ‘challengers’, they particularly aimed for those who were driven by a need for revenge. In other words, by using those who were willing to go as far as murder, the game unfolded.

The detectives, on the other hand, were chosen out of the names registered on the Detective Index at the Detective Library.

There were approximately 65,500 detectives registered on the list, and their names were public information. It was assumed that The Victims Catharsis Committee summoned detectives from this list according to the difficulty of each case. For this, a detective’s DSC number was used as reference.

“The further you move up in rank, the amount of detectives decreases. Statistically it becomes more likely for one to be challenged to a Duel Noir.” Nanamura placed his fork on top of his plate, wiped his mouth with a napkin, then suddenly threw them all behind his back. One of the waiters caught the plate while barely moving an inch. With the space he cleared from throwing away his plate, Nanamura placed his two fingers together on top of the table.

Suisei began to stare at Kirigiri and me as if he was observing us.

“I read your file about the case you solved, you two. It was a great case for your induction.”

The Sirius Observatory was our induction case? And yet even now every time I remembered that day I felt a dreadful despair.

“However, the next one doesn’t seem to be so. Looking at the letter of challenge, the culprit seems to not only understand the aim of Duel Noirs far too well, but they also plan to win. That’s a troublesome attitude. Seems almost as if they’re enjoying the game. It’s probably a treat for the spectators as well.”

“Spectators?”

“Oh? You didn’t know? Duel Noirs are broadcast in real time. The spectators watch over them during what’s called a Closed Circuit, whilst eating and drinking together. You could call it a live-viewing.”

Speaking of which, didn’t the mastermind between the previous case say something along those lines?

The Victims Catharsis Committee didn’t just want to play a game - they wanted to offer a show.

“This is all pretty hard to believe. Who on earth would watch a Duel Noir?”

"I can’t tell you exactly who watches them, however there’s no doubt they move in high-class circles. In order to participate in a Closed Circuit, it’s said that the price is equivalent to that of the school fees from a third world country.”

What an incomprehensible and compassionless comparison. We can compare this to the duel in the arenas of Rome. People paid a lot of money to see blood and people killing each other. They want drama. Of course, I don't think I'd like to see that myself, people being killed so brutally. 

“By the way, why are you after the Victims Catharsis Committee?" asked Suisei.

"We can't leave such an organization in the wild! " I said with a cry from the heart.

"A great sense of justice, huh?" smiled Suisei. He then turned to Kirigiri. "What about you?"

Kirigiri hesitated for a moment, "There is no reason. Honestly, I haven’t received another invite to do so. "

“Um, a-ah, w-wait we should really be united on this!” I turned to retort at Kyoko. “Wait, are you telling me you aren’t willing to fight the Victim’s Catharsis Committee!?”

“No, I’m just interested in having my detective skills recognized.”

“...Seriously, you’re only interested in moving up the ranks? Are you really satisfied with that? After being manipulated, aren’t you the least bit offended?”

“...I do.” Now that actually surprised me. Still, she was answering me in that usual expression of hers. She wasn’t quite good at showing off her feelings, or rather she has an incredible poker face.

"It's not right to hide your emotions behind a stone face, you know? So just try to deal with this organization with me! Isn't this a detective's job? That we aren’t just limited to dealing with immediate threats!?" I questioned.

"If Yui-oneesama wants me to help her, then I will."

"You're so childish!"

I chewed my lower lip to control my frustration.

"Don't you have your own opinion? Are you just a doll that we can control as we please?"

Kirigiri simply looked at me with cold eyes. Was she actually angry?

"A detective operating without a client is just fulfilling mere self-satisfaction." Kirigiri said before looking away.

"Maybe, but at least I’m making an effort to find out the truth." I suddenly got up. Weirdly, it reminded me of my childhood, and especially of my sister. 

“Find the truth? What a childish response.”

“Says the actual child!”

After my sudden outburst, a sound echoed in the room. I looked at the source of the sound; Suisei was holding a mini trumpet. My ears began to ring. 

“Alright, no fighting. Honestly, you’re like children. No wait, not even that, but rookies” Even so, from my point of view, he was much worse. He then threw the trumpet with a bitter laugh and a waiter caught it without problem.

"A detective is nothing without an ideology, especially not trustworthy. They’re also nothing if they’re too self-serving. I guess you two have at least one half of what it means to be a proper detective." said Suisei before shrugging.

Kirigiri and I looked at each other for a moment.

"Sorry I got carried away." I said as I sat back down, my face flushed from embarrassment. Kirigiri remained silent with her face being stoic.

"Well, let's go back to our history lesson," Suisei said, “Since my investigation into the Victims Catharsis Committee began, the amount of missing detectives had reached the double digits.”

“D-double digits?”

“Get what I’m saying? It means that the situation is getting increasingly difficult to back out from.”

“Is that what you got from this investigation into such a dangerous organization? If so, then that just means we need to hurry up and eliminate them!”

“Really brave of you, Yui Samidare. The detectives that disappeared would have said the same thing. These detectives were Double Zeroes, yet even they couldn’t shake this organization. It’s proof that this situation can’t be solved so easily. Say, did you know the Victims Catharsis Committee is registered as a non-profit organization? Complete with an office building, people can freely enter and exit.”

“Really? But then… what’s the matter?”

“The matter is that the only information that can be gathered is what they have open to the public. They spread detectives thin with so much useless information, while the real information is carefully concealed. If you want to hide leaves, put them in the forest. That good example is written in ‘Father Brown’. It’s a famous detective novel by G.K. Chesterton.”

“Then...what purpose does this group have? Is it to really treat the vengeance of others as some sort of program to watch?”

"From what I know, those who traced this organization before they disappeared seem to know there was a real purpose to that.”

“There’s a purpose?"

"The detective who told me about it is still missing, so maybe he knew the real purpose of the Victims Catharsis Committee, or..."

"Well, it definitely wasn’t for ‘Catharsis’."

"What is it from you, Yui? You refer to the Victims Catharsis Committee as evil."

"Isn't that natural? They kill innocent people."

"But both parties are often criminals, aren't they? You should know that if you've ever participated in a Duel Noir." Suisei challenged me. "They're trying to get revenge on someone who's made them suffer in the past, often from a crime."

In the past Duel Noir, the culprit of it, was trying to get revenge for his family that was murdered. He wanted to avenge them.

"Life has also taken away the criminal’s common sense." Kirigiri challenged as well. "They have decided to take revenge on the people who stole from them."

"In this world, there are people who live their normal lives without being judged for the mistakes they have made, while others live a miserable life in the depths of society. Life is simply unfair. Don't you think their behavior is normal?" asked Suisei.

"I can understand that feeling... but it's still unacceptable to turn to violence." I spoke back in retort.

“In the end, what you’re saying is only the opinion of one detective. There is only a thin line that separates justice from evil. For many people, the Duel Noir is a relief or a holy war. Some people think that challengers are rewarded only because of a necessary evil that can change the world.."

The Victims Catharsis Committee was a necessary evil?

Is that really the case?

"Even if there was another reason... when you're determined to kill people, and you 

choose this path, I think you should be punished, no matter what the context is."

"You really are someone with a strong sense of justice." Suisei laughed softly. "But if the iron is twisted, it's very difficult to go back once it's done. A child like you can turn out to be the biggest threat."

"A threat..." Didn’t expect him to call me that.

“Don’t get too personally involved if you ever want to be married to an adult.” he said

"Don't let your feelings get in the way of your judgment, Yui-oneesama." warned Kirigiri. Well, I couldn't think of anything else to answer.

For a professional detective or for Kirigiri, hiding their emotions and not bringing their personal ideas into the business is very easy. I also think it is necessary. However, there's no reason to leave the Victims Catharsis Committee alone like that.

"Whatever the circumstances, I don't think it's time to change my mind about an 

organization like this," I stretched my neck slightly, "No matter the context or despair, a normal human being has to control themselves."

“So what they said about youth being both a wound and a sharp knife was correct!” 

“Mr. Nanamura! Do you really think the culprits of these Duel Noirs are innocent victims?” 

"Yep, but in the grand scheme of things, it doesn’t really matter to me." laughed Suisei as he answered without hesitation. "Innocent or not, as a detective, my true opponent is mystery. My existence is there to solve those that are right in front of me. Say, don’t you think it's more fun solving a mystery solo?"

“And so it turned into this…”

This was expected from a Double Zero. He really trusted his experience. "Do you really think I can forgive criminals? I'm not that naive," he said.

"I'm sorry I doubted you…”

“That’s quite alright!”

“Is there anything else we should know about the Victims Catharsis Committee?"

"I don't know anything else, but I heard another story from a single detective who had been the victim of a Duel Noir."

"Just one?"

"We call him the President, a man... I mean, they could be a woman, who is the brains of it all. Their identity is surrounded by a veil of mystery. One day they founded the Victims Catharsis Committee, a little less than 10 years ago."

"So they are the boss of the organization?"

If we could reveal the identity of the president, we would be able to charge the Victims Catharsis Committee as a criminal organization. The shadow that organization had casted was beginning to mold itself into a human figure.  

"Who could be the president? Could he have been an ex-detective?" Kirigiri said abruptly.

Suisei raised an eyebrow, placing his elbow on the table to support his chin. "Why do you think that?"

"Duel Noir targets must organize an unsolvable crime and become guilty of a false incident. In fact, it means that the organization is able to cover up the real culprit in a case and keep it for a future game. Only a top-notch detective could do that." I spoke, and was rather surprised from what came out of my mouth. Wow, guess I was getting up there in being high level as well... 

"That's right, you're absolutely correct." Kyoko nodded.

"However, if it is a high class detective who could find the real criminal very easily, he can survive their little adventure. As long as the rank is high enough, for example..." said Kirigiri, "The triple zero rank of the detective library counted four people in the past, but one of them disappeared from the records, perhaps they are the President we are after."

"This may be a consideration to be taken into account in order to identify the president of the organization." Applauded Suisei. "I'll skip the explanations, because to us, time is money. Kyoko Kirigiri, you seem to be able to follow me easily. "

"So, which detective was struck off the books?" Kirigiri asked.

"Unfortunately, I don't know." Replied Suisei, extending his arms. "When I registered in the detective library, there was nothing that could designate his identity, like most triple zeroes. All we know is that he's human. He was probably one of the first detectives in the library. If anyone knows anything, it must be a detective who handles gender cases. As far as I know, one of the founders was in this field."

Speaking of the founders, I heard that Kirigiri's grandfather is one of them. It doesn't look like he's registered, but... anyways, I might be thinking too much.

I was watching Kirigiri's reactions from the corner of my eye, but she didn't seem disturbed.

"If you're able to speculate that far, why can't anyone find him?"

Suisei took a knife & fork and raised his arms up. "It's because everything is speculation. If one of the old triple zeros turned out to be the president, it would be a shock."

"Why?" I asked 

"There is a difference between time, money or talent. That's the difference between us and the Triple Zeros. If they turn out to be criminals, it will have a big impact on the rest of us and our reputations. It's not a joke- it's a fact - and it's not an easily by-passable problem. It's an undeniable defeat." Suisei said.

For me to be a Double Zero was already above the clouds, so if someone with a lot of pride like Suisei said that... then maybe I should at least admit that I wanted to fight much harder than I already was.

"There's only one way to get closer to the Victims Catharsis Committee," said Suisei. "It's to capture the challenger, the murderer. They are in direct contact and receive private information. But then again you'll need to know the identity of the murderer. However, if we can do it, it would be a big step. Do you understand?"

"Of course!" I exclaimed. "I wouldn't let a criminal win."

"That's a powerful mantra." Suisei got up from his chair and looked at his watch.                       

"What? Are you planning to leave?"

"We are eating, but time is running out, and time is money." Said Suisei, waving to the waiter. "Even if there wasn't a confirmation, it's still a Duel Noir. Are you sure you want to come?"

"Yes." I said without hesitation. Kyoko saw my face and also nodded.

“Then let’s discuss this Duel Noir, shall we?”

The culprit of the Duel Noir can get funds from the organization in order to purchase Techniques. These Techniques range from tactics to weapons and once their ‘deck’ is assembled what they chose will be on display in the letter to the detective.

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

A Message for the Detective

Heed the Cry of the Noir

Location — Norman Hotel — 80,000,000 yen                         

Weapon — Knife — 5,000,000 yen                        

Weapon — Revolver — 15,000,000 yen 

Weapon — Hammer — 3,000,000 yen

Weapon — Rope — 3,000,000 yen

Weapon — Automobile — 10,000,000 yen                  

Trick — Locked Room — 100,000,000 yen                       

Trick — Disappearing Act — 100,000,000 yen

Other — Cash — 1,000,000,000 yen

Total cost — 1,316,000,000 yen                         

According to the above cost, the following detective is summoned  — Suisei Nanamura.

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

It seems he's the detective to ask.

I felt a little overwhelmed when my eyes met Kirigiri's. This time, the person had accumulated several weapons and tricks. He could buy this from the organization, the price being marked on the letter.

The higher the price and difficulty, the higher the rank of the detective. "I'll tell you the most important things first," said Suisei, taking the bag a waiter had handed to him. He put the letter back inside and closed it.

"In a Duel Noir, there is a rule that says the criminal cannot kill the detective in charge of investigating. It's because there's no game when the detective's not there. The detective is always asked for through a letter. If you're not the detective, you're just a secondary companion. So it could be that the culprit is one of the victims, even if they're dead. You could die." His voice suddenly resounded. "Me and the others, if you think about it, are jumping into the criminal’s trap. It may indeed be that if we apply ourselves to all this, you won't get out of it unscathed and wind up a victim."

“A...victim?” Those unexpected words made my voice change. 

We would need to think about this carefully….

If we get in the way of the culprit, we could die.

“Are you scared?” said Suisei

"I... think I'll be fine." I lied to myself.

In contrast, Kyoko looked quite calm and gave a nod of her head.

"For the criminal to win, they must kill their enemy to get revenge on them, and last 168 hours without being discovered by the detective. If you win the "Duel Noir." You win the amount of money spent on the game. For a criminal wanting to start a new life, that's a good motivation." He said. 

“That...sounds like such a desperate situation to wind up in.”

"Exactly. They can put everything aside, including their past, and have a normal life if they wish. On the other hand, if the detective manages to find out who the culprit is, they will have to refund the money they spent on the game. If they cannot pay with money, they will have to pay with their life. In tune, I will do the same and fight with my life.” 

In short, it is a game of life and death for our enemy. To stay alive, they're going to do everything they can to not get caught. But I'm not going to be beaten. I became a detective to answer the call for help. If you want to bring justice as a detective, you have to put your life aside. That's the purpose of a detective. As such, I have no qualms about risking it all and even giving up my own life for it all. In contrast, Kyoko was a detective by nature with no sense of purpose outside of the profession. She was involved in this career since she was so young, and is now about to become a detective machine, utterly incapable of feeling death.

But, no matter how much detective work was installed in her, she was still a junior high school girl still starting out. 

"The Duel Noir does not always take place in closed areas. However, as this limits the movement of detectives and drives the police back, these locations are often chosen. The Norman Hotel, which was chosen for this game, is an old abandoned hotel in the mountains. It will be very far from the city. We cannot afford to neglect the preparations. We’ll probably be there for at least 100 hours."

Suisei looked at his watch once again, and raised his hand to say goodbye.

"I have to go." Suisei began to leave, when he suddenly turned around, remembering something. "Oh, and let's confirm the schedules before that. I'll leave for the Norman Hotel the day after tomorrow, because there's something I absolutely have to do tomorrow. I will leave around 7am, and with the transport, I'll probably arrive around 10am. Is that okay for you? It's only one day, but..."

"Isn't there a time limit?"

"With my speed, we shouldn't be late. There's no problem."

“Oh...okay?”

"Let's pray for our victory!"

Suisei then headed for the exit of the private room, before diverting to the windows. He opened one of them. A strong wind rushed into the room. Suisei moved his legs to the other side of the window. "Good luck!" He gave us a thumbs up and jumped out of the window.

"Mr. Nanamura!" I quickly got up from my chair and rushed to the window that was still open. I then saw him slowly descend towards the illuminated city, a parachute deployed. The big sky-blue parachute added something to the beauty of the city. Were the high-ranking detectives all like this? I froze for a moment, watching the man slowly descend. The sound of cutlery made me return to my senses. A waiter came to close the window, blocking the wind.

"Well, let's continue this meal, even if we’re worried. D-day is only the day after tomorrow.”

"Yui-oneesama." said Kirigiri. "This could be our last Christmas."

"Don't say such a thing! Of course we won't be killed so easily! We'll have more Christmases after this!"

And I'll protect you. I couldn't get those words out of my throat. I could only superimpose 

Kirigiri's possible death based on my little sister's... Because of that, I didn't even want to think about it. I didn't really trust Suisei. Moreover, if I let myself be trapped in my little sister's illusion, it could be annoying for the investigation. I forced myself to drop a "I'll do my best for the Duel Noir."

"I guess I don't have a choice if I want to improve my rank."

It's still my little sister's voice....

"Hey, Yui-oneesama." Kirigiri was young, but her voice sounded very adult. "We must survive the Duel Noir, no matter what happens there."

A waiter approached me, and gave me something that looked like a fine notebook. When I opened it, I discovered the dinner bill. 62248 yen. 

“So Mr. Suisei Nanamura didn't pay?” 

The waiter tilted his head and smiled to remind me of his presence. I checked my wallet but I only have two 2,000 yen bills on me. 

“What’ll we do?” I whispered to Kirigiri: “That damn detective! His spectacular exits and entries show he has money, but likes to keep it!"

"Keep calm, Yui-oneesama." Kirigiri replied gently. She then took a card out of her wallet. "Can I pay at once?"

"Certainly." After settling everything, the waiter bowed and then left us alone.

"Kirigiri... you’re so cool..."

Once dinner was over, we left the building. Even if we moved as far away as possible, it was impossible not to see it. Lights that were almost blinding our eyes were emanating powerfully from across the city. I felt like I was in a paradise under the ocean, walking with Kirigiri. The Christmas lights were comforting, and a row of Christmas trees illuminated the faces of passers-by.

"Well, now that we're here... I can walk you home..." I said. Kirigiri remained silent for a moment, listening to the sounds of the night. She then turned around and started to walk away on her own.

"No need, it's too late anyways. I'll send you a message."

"But, alone at this hour..."

Kirigiri leaned her head and said to me over her shoulder: "Maybe if it was a foreign country, but there is nothing threatening on the roads of this country."

"But, if a man is attracted to young girls like you... he could do... that!"

I tried to attack her from behind, to grab her neck, but the next thing I knew, she was 

gone. She then appeared behind me and put my arms behind my back.

“Ow, this hurts…”

"See? I can defend myself." She released my arm. “You need to be careful, Yui-oneesama. If you tried you could probably beat an older man with a high kick from those legs of yours. 

"Be careful though, because if a man really wanted to attack you, you probably won't be up to it."

"Of course I will."

"Did you take a self-defense course?...And if possible can you teach me that trick too?"

"I'm going now." Kirigiri said as she looked at the street clock.

"Let's just go back together anyways, I want to talk a little more with you. It's quite boring, being alone."

Kirigiri frowned, creating a wrinkle on her forehead. She kept walking without looking at me. I ran up to her.

"We can keep talking about..."

"What, teaching you self-defense?"

"No, about the president of the Victims Catharsis Committee..."

"What's the matter?"

"He's a former detective, and one of the founders of the Detective Library... couldn't it be your grandfather?"

"It's very dramatic, but no, it's not him."

"How can you know that?" I asked.

"My grandfather was never registered in the library. He told me that before. He never became a triple zero, and it's not registered, so it couldn't be deleted."

But did her grandfather tell the truth?

"Are you sure he's not lying to you? A grandfather would never tell his granddaughter that he is the president of such an organization..."

"My grandfather is very proud to be a Kirigiri, more than anyone else in my family... He would never settle for being put in boxes like the library ranks. He was against the whole DSC classification system in the first place."

"Just pride?" I opposed. I've never heard of this family. She came from a detective 

family, there was no doubt about it. She has these abilities at only 13 years old. Maybe she really comes from a big detective family and that blood flows through her veins, but I haven't seen any other detective react to the name 'Kirigiri'. Even Suisei, who was a double zero.

"I know what you're thinking. The Kirigiri family are good detectives, but we don't want to 

be known. We live in the shadows. So the ordinary detectives don't know us. That's why my grandfather didn't register in the library, to protect the Kirigiri pride. We almost never talk about ourselves."

"It's an incredible story... but why did Kyoko-chan register in the library? Isn't that 

against your family's principles? At least, according to your grandfather.”

"First, my grandfather technically lives abroad. So he doesn't fight crime from here. It is 

impossible for him to be the president of a small organization located only in Japan."

"It's true that he's on another level... Sorry for doubting your grandfather, Kirigiri. Even 

adults fight crimes like this anonymously, ignoring the opinion of the public and the government, but maybe he knows the president of the Victims Catharsis Committee? I mean, he was the 'president' of the library."

"I wonder about that, but there's nothing I can do about it."

"Maybe if you say your name, an official will recognize him. It's probably easier to sneak in discreetly."

"It doesn't matter. It'll always be the same thing; what do I do after that? How can I sue the president of such a non-profit organization?" Kirigiri looked troubled, and she moved her fingers closer to her face, as if to warm them with her breath.

"Whatever! Everything ends up being discovered! Like how Al Capone ended up being nabbed for tax fraud. There’s probably something that can be put on him. As long as we can stop the Duel Noir"

“Such an extreme line of justice, that’s no different than succumbing to evil.”

“Erk…” 

"Yes, but being around all the time thinking about conspiracy theories will do worse than 

better. For now, we should put the president's case aside. Let's try to clean up what's in front of us." I was really getting told by a girl who was younger than me.

That's right. We have already made good progress. Suisei Nanamura's Duel Noir had already started for 12 hours. We must remain calm. We'll think about how everything will go after we arrest the Duel Noir criminal... If we manage to get out of the hotel alive.

We continued to walk, our minds clouded with questions. Kirigiri suddenly stopped.

"What? What's the matter?"

"We have arrived." I looked up to see a huge traditional house, with a huge door. I had 

trouble closing my mouth. The streetlights continued along the hill, and the white barriers extended far and wide

“Were there any houses like that left?” In this case, it was the largest traditional house I had ever seen. I watched Kirigiri, my eyes full of jealousy. Yes, she was definitely a lady.

"My curfew has already passed." Kirigiri said. "Fortunately you're not a man, because even for a detective, he would have been angry." Kirigiri seemed a little uncomfortable.

"If you had a curfew, you should have told me. We would have left sooner." I said.

"It's because I was talking to you that I'm late," Kirigiri replied, with cold eyes.

"Yes, it's because I've talked too much. I'm sorry, but I had to be absolutely sure what we discussed."

"If you say so."

“I’ll explain the situation, if that works?”

“That would help me quite a deal.” she said with a slightly softer tone than before. I felt rather pleased from it all.

Kirigiri walked to the large gate before stopping. The gate was made of wood, and I could only imagine the splinters that would be caught by touching it. It was still quite warm, but there were no signs, just an intercom.

"Aren't you coming home?”

“Only outsiders go through the front door. Family access is through the back.” She said as she walked along the wall.

“How… formal.”               

The massive trees planted on the other side did not allow me to see behind the gate. It was difficult to see the majestic residence, but it was impossible to see a human presence. For someone who didn't know the place, the residence was a total mystery.

"Do you live with your grandfather or alone?

"It depends, but there are three maids. One person is always there."

“Servants, are you serious?”

Since the school we went to was full of young girls, it was not difficult to hear that some families hired maid servants so that they would not leave their daughter alone. One of these families was Kyoko's. She had neither her father nor her mother. I didn't have the details, so I didn't understand the situation well, but I easily understood that I shouldn't ask more questions.

"By the way, didn't you live abroad for a while?"

"Yes, with my grandfather. I stayed there for 5 years. Then I had to come back to this school, as I was already enrolled here," Kirigiri said. "It had to happen at some point. There's a small portal that allows easy access."

"My life is very different from yours."

"Really?" Kirigiri stoically replied.

We walked along the fence for a while, until Kirigiri pointed to a specific place. There was a small gate to make it easier to get in. She took the key out of her pocket, inserted it and turned the key. The gate opened easily.

“Eh? You had the key for this place on-hand?”

“The problem isn’t about me having the key. The problem is what to do afterwards.”

“Is sneaking to your room not on the table?”

“He’ll definitely catch me.”

"So what should I do?" I asked.

"Wait here, I'll call Grandpa."

"Okay, I'll wait."

"I'll be back soon."

"Oh, wait a minute!"

"What?"

"Wouldn't it be better if you took that hat off your head," I replied, pointing at the Santa's hat that was on her head. She pushed it slightly. I watched it fall at my feet. Kyoko looked rather surprised. 

"What is it?"

"Didn't you notice?!" I picked up the hat and encouraged Kirigiri. "Hey, you better go."

"Oh, yeah." Kirigiri walked towards the door of the house. Once Kirigiri was out of sight, I put my hands in my pockets and leaned against the fence. It's unusual for Kirigiri to panic. Maybe her grandfather was that strict? Or maybe she really loves her grandfather. That must have been it. For her, who didn't have parents, it must have been difficult. I looked up to the sky, looking at the streetlights. 

Suddenly, little white glitter began to fall from the sky. A white Christmas? On Christmas Eve I am often alone, wondering what I will do next year, and my anxiety overwhelms me. This year, I met a girl named Kirigiri Kyoko, whose presence really helped me. I no longer have this feeling of loneliness and emptiness. We're both detectives too. Will she be here again next year? I was imagining our future: two detectives always together. I didn't want a dark future, but wasn't that the fate of a detective?

"Yui-oneesama." I heard a voice. I saw that the large gate was open. I turned around to see Kirigiri, looking at me with concern.

"Where's your grandfather?" I walked away from the white barriers by redoing the button on my coat. I approached Kirigiri looking behind her, but there was no one there.

"You're the man who wants to seduce my Kyoko!”

The voice came from above my head. An old man wearing a kimono was on the wall. I only noticed it now? I stepped back before being pulled forward again, put on the ground. A short time before, I was quietly contemplating the sky. It was disturbing to see an old man jump off a wall that high. The old man's cane kept me on the ground. Was he really that strong?! He lifted it up to try and hit my head.

"Wait, it's not her! She's a woman!"

"What?" He pulled his cane away, lifted me up, and grabbed my chest. "What are you doing!" I shouted, clearing the man's hand. I jumped away.

"It's Yui-oneesama, the detective who goes to the same school as me."

"Oh, is that true?" he said, scratching his white hair. "Sorry, I heard Kyoko was going to eat with a boy, excuse me for the misunderstanding!"

Despite his white hair, he looked pretty young. His hair was shiny, his wrinkles discreet, he stood up straight and his eyes were shiny with life. He had a cane in his right hand, but his legs didn't seem weak. Maybe it was some kind of weapon for him.

"I'm glad to know that Kyoko has made a friend. Was it you who called?" he said with a smile. He looked like another person with that soft smile on his face. “You’re taking care of my granddaughter. I’m so embarrassed. She was always alone, and didn’t seem to be used to life here. I was getting worried. If she has a good partner like you, then I can relax. Right, Kyoko?” “Yes.” 

"I'm sorry for delaying Kyoko and making her miss her curfew. She didn't seem familiar with life here, and I wanted to make sure she didn't get hurt."

Kirigiri was half hidden behind her grandfather's back. She seemed more comfortable than usual.  

"We both talked about the incident, and it took a long time... I didn't know there was a curfew. Please, don’t punish her!"

“Heh, I always wondered who Kyoko would bring back to me. Anyways, don’t worry, there’s an exception to every rule. If it involves a detective case, I'm willing to forgive her. For the Kirigiri family, detective business is very important and comes first. Even death does not deviate from its purpose."

“O-oh, so…”

“If it was detective related, then that curfew crap can wait!” he said with a merry laugh.

Was that what Kirigiri's grandfather taught? It sure explained a lot...still, glad he wasn’t unreasonable. Honestly, when he knocked me down and groped my chest, I was expecting the worst. Still, from what I’m seeing, he’s a pretty agreeable guy. Though, perhaps, that could be just his love for Kyoko, spoiling her?

“Heh, thought I was a grouchy old man? It’s all over your face!”

“Erm, s-so sorry!”

“Like I said, when it comes to being a Kirigiri, being a detective goes past one’s family, even death itself. Isn’t that right?”

“Yes, Grandpa.”

"That’s my girl! If it is for a case and to see Kyoko become a first rate detective, than I suppose it's worth keeping the gate unlocked at night,” 

"Really?" Kyoko asked in wonder. 

"Of course, as long as you’re focused on your duty!”

"I'll do my best to be a good detective," Kirigiri replied, her eyes shining.

"Good girl." said the grandfather as he stroked Kirigiri's head. She and her grandfather seemed quite happy.

I felt a little uncomfortable in front of the stage, but I couldn't help but think it was cute.

"Uh, tomorrow we'll have to solve a Duel Noir case, so Kyoko will be spending the night somewhere else. O-Of course, I’ll also be there with her! Is that alright?” 

"Of course!"

Well, it was easy... but sending his little girl without hesitation into such a case... He 

didn't seem to be afraid of the death of his loved ones. Did he know a lot about the Duel Noirs? He must have heard about the Victims Catharsis Committee, thanks to Kyoko. He at least knows a little. Maybe he even knew more than we did. Such a great detective, who is also the founder of the Detective Library, necessarily knows more. I hesitated for a long time, not knowing if I should ask him or not. The man spoke again.

"Well, it's about time we head inside. You should go home too, Yui. It's cold tonight and you need to prepare to investigate. Shall I call a cab for you?" 

“Oh, no, I’m fine.”

"It was a pleasure to meet you. Kyoko, you can see her off."

I slowly lowered my head, always thinking.

"May I ask you for another cho-..."

There was no old man left in front of me. I was looking around, but nothing... nowhere. He had disappeared. Completely missing.

"Yui-oneesama, maybe you should go home..." said Kirigiri, near the gate.

I hadn't noticed it, but I was tired. The tension and my heavy breath disappeared, and I could feel the fatigue falling on my shoulders.

"I'm sorry to have bothered you, Yui-oneesama."

"It's okay, I'd let an old man touch my chest if it's for you." I said, removing the dust from my coat. "But I didn't know your grandfather was so... focused on your education. Still, it's great he’s not so uptight. "

"Hey, Yui-oneesama?"

"Yes?"

“It’s weird to choose detective work over family, yes?”

“W-w-well, I w-wouldn’t call it strange, just… well, it does seem to involve a lack of caring about people’s feelings in the matter.“ I said after a good degree of thought.

“People’s feelings?”

“Are you asking because you have doubts over your detective work?”

"No, that’s not it. Anyway, what Grandpa said earlier, that detective work was more important than the death of a family member… don't you think it's strict?"

"Well, I find it stranger than strict, but I guess that's your family's opinion of detectives..."

"No, it's different. For my family, work is really more important than the death of a family member. It's not a suggestion, it's an obligation. A dogma."

"Okay... I think it might be beautiful? It means you're very proud to be a detective, right?"

"Don't you think it's abnormal?" Kirigiri continued.

She had so much pride in her work as a detective that I could hardly see her doubting that. She was raised into it during her childhood, which made the thought of her doubts even harder to fathom. Still....

"What do you think?" I asked her.

"I don't think it's abnormal. I think… I think it's a good mentality," said Kirigiri. I thought for a moment to say that she didn't have to continue, but she opened her mouth before me. "But I feel like I force myself to think like that. Like, I live like a real detective, because I don't want to feel empty."

For her, her life was all about detective work, but even still...

"As long as I'm here, you won't be alone or empty." I hugged her.

"I want it to stay that way," Kirigiri said, looking at me.

"Of course! You're the coolest, most pure detective I know! Let's do our best together! Tomorrow and for as long as possible."

"Ah? ...Well, goodbye." Separating myself from Kirigiri, who walked back with a shyish look on her face, I laid my hand on the gate. I gave her one last look before running to the dormitories, the snow accompanying me. My curfew passed a long time ago! The dormitories were guarded, so I discreetly passed through a window.

Heh, violating the rules on Christmas night.

It felt quite nice!~

Chapter 1: End

https://drmedicsgamesurgery.tumblr.com/GameSurgeryDRTranslations for more!

[cumonmebucky]

Summer of 1983 - 2.

Chapter 2 – flowers & sunshine.

words - 900-1k

“Hi doll, name’s Bucky” He says with a smug smile plastered on his face, his eyes curve into a reassuring gaze. His steel blue eyes thunder, reflecting the emerald of the lake, his rich brown tousles are slicked back. His Greek god physique glimmers golden, as though the sun favors him above all. Sam and Steve snicker far off and go along splashing in the water like old geezers.

You slide off your headphones, a shy blush creeping up on your face. “Hey Bucky” you say, shifting uncomfortably under his piercing gaze that seems to leave you all brazen. “Y/N” you muster up the courage to say, his smile seems to curve into a bright one. “A pretty lady with a pretty name, you’re new here, doll?”

You bashfully nod, feeling a bit embarrassed at the way the nickname rolls off his tongue.

“Relax, doll, I am not interrogating you” he says mistaking your shyness for nervousness. “What’re you listening to, doll?”, he slowly emerges out of the water and sits next to you in the warm grass. You hand him your headphones, he takes one of the speakers and brings it near his ears.

“Ilene Woods? What kind of a hopeless romantic are you?” he teases you, chuckling a bit.

“Oh, come on, it’s a great song” you say snatching the headphone away from him. “I thought you were a Kitty Kallen type of a gal, doll” he says and you remember the infamous saxophone of ‘It’s been a long, long time’.

“Well, you look like a Frank Valli and The Four Seasons type of a guy” you retort to which he replies, “you’re right, I can’t take my eyes off of you, baby”. You laugh softly at his pun, “and you call me a hopeless romantic? You’re a funny guy, Bucky.”

“Well, that’s what the ladies say” he chuckles along with you, his eyes shifting from yours to his friends across him. You smile at him and then look over to Peter losing his mind over a rock with a few kids. “You with him, doll?”

“No, I just met him at Uncle Tony’s” you say, turning back to look at Bucky again, he turns a bit pale, laughing nervously. “You’re Tony’s niece?” he questions, his hands trembling a bit and his mouth drying up with uneasiness.

“Nope, he’s really good friends with my mum” you say, popping the ‘p’, Bucky sighs, almost relieved hearing that. “He’s my godfather, do you know him?”.

Bucky gulps, he has truly dug his own grave, he was really just hitting on ‘Tony Stank’s’ goddaughter for fucks sake. “yeah, him and I aren’t really on good terms, doll” he gets up and sits a fit away from you.

For some reason, you almost frown seeing Bucky shift away from you, missing his warmth in a second, besides, you just met him and you’re old enough to know about strangers. “So, what else do you listen to, Bucky?”

He looks up to meet your eyes and for a second, he wishes he should have never approached you in the first place, because your smile only intrigues him more. “I have a lot of cassettes back home, you wanna come over and check em out, doll?” He lets the sentence slip out of his mouth faster than he could think.

Strangers. You were almost about to say yes, but before you did, you let your sanity get you first, beware of strangers. But then again, Bucky doesn’t seem like a dangerous person, and you would hate to put him down. “I’ll think about it, Bucky.” You say, reassuringly squeezing his hand.

He smiles at you and then sees his friends approaching him from the corner of his eyes. “Alright then, see you soon, doll” he says getting up and dusting the sand off his shorts. You see two people walking towards Bucky and assume there his friends.

Bucky gives you a wink, and then motions that he’s leaving. You shyly nod, mouthing a small “bye”. “Come on man, you’re not going to introduce me to the beautiful lady-“, Bucky jokingly hits his friend in the head, making you chuckle a bit. “Shut up, Sam”.

“Oh and, if you think of coming to check out some cassettes, I live at the main town, near Okoye’s café, Wanda-Vision residential complex, third floor, room 14” Bucky says and leaves with his friends. You memorize the address, and then as how Bucky and his friends drive off in his 1956 dodge convertible.

bucky, steve, and sam, third person pov.

“So how did it go, buck?” Steve nudges Bucky with his elbow, making the other smirk. “great” He said, his hands on the steering wheel. “Give us the deets, man” Sam said, making the blond snort. “I called her over to my apartment “ he says and Sam cheers “and that is the charm of Sergeant Barnes.” making Steve chuckle.

“As true as that would be, I called her over to check out some cassettes”.

“Wait. You called her over to check out cassettes and that’s, that’s it?” Sam inquired, making the brunette roll his eyes. “what do you mean “that’s it”, that’s a lot”

“and besides, Stark’s her godfather”

back to normal pov. You call out Peter’s name, and he turns to face you, a few little kids surround him. “I think we should go back now”. He nods and lets the kids play with the rocks they made him dig up. He runs to the bicycles, “Last one to reach has to hear Mr.Stark rant about the coffee beans in the sink” . Before you could answer, he started rushing and you couldn’t say no to a small little game.

Taglist for Summer of 1983 Series:

@mxrvelinhrt @hiya-its-amber @pearljamislife

[coffee--writes]

A Bad Case of Dragon Pox

Pairing: Bill Weasley x Reader

Word Count: 900

Warnings: Being sick. 

Series: Part of my Touches to the Heart series! It is based on “Ten Wordless Ways to Say I Love You.” 

Summary: In which, Bill Weasley takes care of you when you suffer from a bad case of dragon pox. (Trope: Sick Days) 

Being sick was the absolute worst.

You were one of the lucky people in the world who rarely got sick. Your childhood hadn’t been plagued with too many illnesses. The Weasley family was quite the opposite. With seven children, illness was common and unusually rampant. You had been dating Bill Weasley, the oldest of the Weasley flock, for all of sixth year before he nervously invited you over to the Burrow for the summer. You accepted immediately, loving how Bill described his home in the warmest of manners, the love for his brothers and sisters flowing from his lips without him even noticing. 

Unfortunately, said brothers and sisters had given you dragon pox. 

On the bright side, dragon pox was an easily treated ailment as of now. Mrs. Weasley had apologized profusely when you had contracted the spotted sickness from Bill’s ten year old twin brothers. You shook your head, though the throbbing headache made it hard. She had cleared a room for you insisting you lay there till she finished brewing the potion in a few days time. 

Surprisingly enough, Bill Weasley did well with the sick. Being the elder brother of six he’d seen his fair share of illnesses and nurtured to the sick a numerous amount of times. Bill Weasley was immune to dragon pox having had it when he was a boy so being the kind man he was, stayed by your bedside attentively. 

“Checkmate.” he announced, proudly. 

You groaned, blowing your nose and throwing the tissue into the trash. “I hate you.” you mumble. “I’m over here dying and you’re bragging about winning a chess game to a dying woman?” 

He scoffed, “You, are overdramatic. You’re not dying. Just slowly suffering.” 

You chuckle, giving a slight cough along with it. Bill passes you the cup of water on the bedside table, helping you take a sip carefully. “How about we do something more fun?” you raise your eyebrow at him playfully. 

Bill smirks, “The words you’re saying are insinuating something vastly different than what I think you mean.” 

A laugh leaves your lips as you throw a pillow at him. “You tosser! I meant can you tell me a story. You know you tell the best ones.” 

He sighed dramatically. “I suppose I can tell one interesting tale.” 

“Please?” you beg.

“Anything for you, my love.” he smiled, lounging back in the chair beside your bed. “Once upon a time there was a lonely bard who sang ballads of adventures in a crackity old tavern that resided off the cliffside of Mount Sampson.” 

Bill’s stories wove their way into your imagination. The bard bellowed his songs as he traveled with the brave hero up the mountain to fight the evil emperor. Bill always had a way with words. His voice animated itself with calm, peaceful undertones that lulled your mind to a heavy sleep. 

The last thing you remembered before falling under were warm lips pressing against your temple. “Goodnight, my love.” was whispered and sheets tucked as you fell asleep with a smile. 

>>><<< 

The next few days were spent with Bill. He was by your side most hours of the day, beating you in chess or telling you stories. When the rest of the Weasley’s went out to shop for school items, he stayed behind. At the time you hadn’t realized it either. It wasn’t until he came up with a hot bowl of chicken noodle soup that you noticed the odd silence in the house. 

You sat up, eagerly taking the soup. “Tell your mum I said thanks.” 

Bill’s jaw dropped dramatically as he watched you start on the soup. “I’m offended. Really. I made that soup all on my lonesome.” 

Your eyes bulged. “Seriously? I didn’t know you could cook.” 

He laughed. “Have you met my mother? I guess I should take it as a compliment that you mistook my soup for hers.” 

“Speaking of which.” you said, putting down the bowl of soup. “It’s so quiet.” 

“Ahh, that’s because my family all went out to buy school stuff. They’re picking up some things for you too.” 

You smile gratefully. “You won’t snitch on me if I leave my room?” 

He snickered, helping you up off the bed. “Of course not. No better time than now.” 

Making your way down the stairs was freeing. Being stuck in the room all week had made you stir crazy. All was peaceful at the Burrow for a rare moment. The birds chirped and sunlight poured through the open windows. You crashed on the couch with a wide smile, turning on the small radio. Turning the dial was a tricky thing as you searched for a station that wasn’t playing Celestina Warbeck. 

The deep strums of Muggle rock echoed through the speakers and Bill’s ears instantly perked up. You laughed, “Perform for me?” 

He proceeded with an eager nod and what a performance it was. Bill Weasley played an excellent air-made electric guitar and made wonderful impressions of a rocker's high pitched chords. When he finished he was out of breath, sweaty, and slightly red at the sight of your laughs. 

“Well… did I do well?” he asked. 

“Beautiful.” you laugh, curling into his side as he slipped his arms around you. The Muggle rock bringing back some of the usual chaos that tended to reside in the Burrow. 

A perfect start to your sickly morning.

>>><<< 

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[retphienix]

It's funny to me just how quickly the intro to this game convinced me to play P5 proper instead of casually enjoying what another musou game could offer me.

I got to the end of this string of cutscenes after the tutorial 5 seconds of combat and said "NOPE! I'm booting up Persona 5, let's do this!" and man that was fun :)

What's interesting to me is how much more Persona this is than the in-house spinoff, Dancing in Starlight. At least at the start.

So I'm well aware that Persona has a history of rhythm spinoffs and I'm not faulting them AT ALL for Dancing being what it is- I'm actually quite fond of it and plan on completing it :)

But it's funny because I attribute a sort of... Lackadaisical element to Musou games in general- perhaps unfairly since they have a Pretty good track record for crossovers.

You'd expect the in-house spinoff to have a ton of nods to the main game, but thus far Dancing in Starlight has pseudo confidant talks and.....

Well that's it so far. No phone chats, no narrative about corruption or stealing hearts, no nothin' really. It's dancing because the twins said to so you can fulfill a bet they have going against (what I imagine) is the caretaker and protagonist of P4.

And that's great, but to then boot up a Musou spinoff and it begin with the phone log, talks of people having their mind's affected by what seems guaranteed to be the metaverse, conspiracy- it all feels 900% more like Persona.

And about my expectations being for "Lackadaisical" degrees from Musou, that IS indeed unfair because they have proven over the years that when they get a contract for a crossover- they put work in. Hyrule Warriors is the big name to drop just to prove that much.

But as someone who considers Musou to be a guilty pleasure of mine- who's been a fan since Dynasty Warriors 3 and 4, I have trouble seeing that Omega Force logo and not assuming some half-assery.

This is the group that DURING THEIR HAYDAY copy pasted the same game 900 times, and today their main series are often criticized for, you guessed it, copy pasting yet again AND stripping content (that we know exists because copy-paste) to monetize through DLC.

And having their latest mish mash project monetize so harshly and strip so heavily and "experiment" so poorly (usually in service of monetization) that we haven't had a new entry since 2018- you can forgive me for seeing a Musou game and my first thought being "Oh, this is gonna be cheap isn't it" before admitting that I will guiltily enjoy it.

All to say: This game starts with a ton more nods to P5 than I expected, and miles more than Dancing has. It's something I find unexpected even now after explaining how wrong it is for me to assume less when Omega does good crossover work- it's STILL surprising lol.

I mean look! It even incorporates the calendar for flare! No idea if it matters yet, but P5: DIS doesn't even bother because everything is happening over 1 night! That's a neat, VERY P5 thing to include!

[ohthehypocrisy]

Exclusions for Pokemon Unite!

So, while I’m taking a break, I figured I’d make a quick post about something. 

Since there are over 900 pokemon, with more coming out with Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet about to be released soon, the unfortunate reality is that not every pokemon can be added to the game. What I mean is that the Pokemon games will outlast Pokemon Unite, the game will end long before the series does. This may be a wake-up call for some of you, but no spin-off ever outlasts a main game (unless they become their own series like Donkey Kong Country or Yoshi’s Island).

Even if Pokemon Unite walked alongside the main games, there are more pokemon than they can put into Unite. Most people know this deep down, which is why you see social media comments on the official accounts flooded with requests for certain pokemon. Calls for Mewtwo, Luxray, Gallade, that sort of thing. They ask because the games can’t fit all of them, even though they most certainly will try. Same thing happened with Pokken Tournament. The DX version even gave us new fighters, and people really wanted DLC, but even the developers of that game knew they couldn’t fit every single pokemon in the roster, even with the pokemon Assists outnumbering the pokemon fighters.

That’s what I’m going to cover in this post. I can’t say that the pokemon I’ll discuss aren’t in consideration with the Unite devs, but rather these are pokemon I won’t be making a moveset for. If you disagree with me on any matter, please feel free to respond. I’d love to hear your critique.

Mewtwo

Easy with the pitchforks, guys. At least until you hear me out.

I have no doubt that Mewtwo would be a great addition to Pokemon Unite. A massive Speed stat, skyhigh Sp. Atk, and it’s iconic status as the first overpowered pokemon, It would be so great to play as Mewtwo.

However, I feel like that would be missing the point of Mewtwo in general. Mewtwo is supposed to be the ultimate pokemon, it’s not meant to be controlled. Even though it was in Pokken Tournament, it was still the final boss when it was in shadow form. And even afterwards, when you defeated Shadow Mewtwo, you could then play as regular Mewtwo, emphasizing the fact that it was the ultimate reward for conquering this powerful pokemon. The same characteristic just wouldn’t apply in Pokemon Unite.

Mewtwo in Pokemon Unite would work better as a Raid Boss, not unlike the Boss Rush mode that was added not too long ago. However, rather than showing up at the end, it would be the sole opponent at the start, throwing out light hits, not taking you seriously until you start gaining EXP and becoming stronger, proving yourself a threat to it. It would have to be defeated in 3 rounds, the first would be Mewtwo taking you lightly, throwing warning shots here and there, until you take it down to half HP. Afterwards, it would teleport away, sending in wild pokemon to cover its retreat. You would have to fight your way through them and then seek it out, having hidden itself somewhere on the map. Once you find it, you have to hold out until your team arrives, because if you get KOd, it’ll teleport away again. But once the team comes together, the fight starts over. On the last round, Mewtwo stops holding back, dealing insane damage frequently with hard to avoid attacks.

Now granted, in keeping with the spirit of accomplishing victory by overcoming Mewtwo, it could be a great reward to gain its Unite License afterward, or by collecting points from successful raids. Either way, I’d be more excited with Mewtwo as an ideal raid boss over an actual character, but that’s just me.

Gastrodon (East Side/West Side)

Talk about a tonal shift.

Now, Gastrodon would make a great Pokemon in Unite, as either a Supporter, Defender, or All-Rounder. I have a fondness for Gastrodon, personally, having started my competitive pokemon career in Gen 4. It could be a janitor type of pokemon, where it cleans up the passive moves left behind by the enemy, such as Venusaur’s Sludge Bomb or Crustle’s Stealth Rock.

But before any moves can be decided, the most important question has to be answered first, which form? The pink and brown Gastrodon is notably known as the Western variant, while the green and blue one is the Eastern variant. Some trainers like one form over the other, so perhaps they would have the ability to choose? Well, that’s gonna be a bit tricky. See, lorewise, Gastrodon are split between west and east because they evolved in the same region divided by a big mountain, Mt. Coronet. As such, it is part of their identity that the two forms are split depending on the position of the map, and that leads us into a difficult problem.

Teams are split into western and eastern sides of the battle map, just like this one.

You may not have noticed it, but you have had games where you are on the eastern side, not west. As such, it wouldn’t make much sense to be an eastern Gastrodon spawning on the western side of the map, huh?

Not only that, though the two pokemon are identical in every way aside from appearance, that makes a difference in Pokemon Unite. They would have to make two models for the same character, two sets of holowear for the same pokemon, the prices would be inflated, and they wouldn’t be able to justify the price since it’s functionally the same pokemon. And there’s no way you can have Gastrodon and exclude one form, that defeats the purpose of the character.

Unfortunately, this means that Gastrodon just wouldn’t be able to get into Pokemon Unite, at least, not as a playable character. Gastrodon would work as a wild pokemon, denoting the cardinal side it spawns in, but other than that, no license for you. Shucks.

Hisuian Pokemon

Now granted, this is definitely going to change when trade between Pokemon Legends: Arceus becomes possible. However, as for right now, I have to say that I cannot make a moveset for any of these pokemon.

I’m sure we’d all love to see Hisuian Zoroark or Hisuian Arcanine come to Pokemon Unite, and I would love that too. There’s just a couple of problems here and there that make that flat out impossible.

Firstly, Pokemon in Legends: Arceus do not have abilities. Except for Regigigas. Because screw ‘m. Every playable pokemon in Pokemon Unite has an ability, or a passive, if you will. That’s already the first problem. Now, you might say, but of course they do! They will have abilities later on, we even know what they’re going to be! And to that I say, Did you know abilities can be switched out between generations? Believe it or not, it happened. Zapdos once had a hidden ability in Lightning Rod, but it was unreleased. When it was finally accessible in a different generation, it became Static instead. this also happened to Chandelure. It’s hidden ability was Shadow Tag, you know, the ability that made Wobbuffet and Mega Gengar Uber? It was also unreleased, and then changed to Infiltrator in the following generation, so the world would never know of the terror it could’ve unleashed.

My point is, the same thing can happen here as well, which is actually a good thing, because many of these regional forms have the same ability as their counterparts. A change in their abilities would be welcomed, but that means we can’t speculate the pokemon for Pokemon Unite with what we have for now.

Speaking of which, a lot of the moves in Legends: Arceus are...functionally different from the main games. Status effects and boosts wear off over time, hazards are replaced with passive damage effects, stats have been fused together in battle calculations, it’s all weird and off putting. We don’t even know how these moves would work in the main games, let alone Pokemon Unite.

Take Hisuian Lilligant for example.

It gained a signature move called Victory Dance, which boosts its Attack, Defense, and the power of its moves for a short time. Now, that’s great and all...but what would it do as a move in the main games? Does it give one stage boosts? 2? How much PP? Is it like Focus Energy? We can’t exactly translate that to Pokemon Unite if we don’t know how it will work in the main games. Not to mention, as I’ve stated before, the abilities can be changed between generations, and it’s possible these moves will be changed when they are transferred. 

And yes, moves have changed between generations. Knock Off used to be a weak move that was only meant to disarm the opponent of their item, now it’s an overpowered Dark type move that punishes you for playing optimally (I really don’t like that move).

With all that said, I’ve opted to wait until the pokemon database is updated with the Hisuian Pokemon and their abilities and moves. As for who would be my first pick? Probably Sneasler. A safe pick that allows Weavile to come in later.

Mega Pokemon

I know you miss Mega Evolutions. We all do. If Mega Evolutions hadn’t been dropped in Sword and Shield, we would definitely see them in Pokemon Unite.

However, that does bring up an important dilemma. Would Mega Evolutions be fair in Pokemon Unite? In the game at the moment, Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur, Lucario, Gardevoir, Slowbro, Absol, Gengar, Garchomp, and the soon to be released Scizor are all capable of Mega Evolution, or, at least they were. That’s 10 out of the 42 playable pokemon in the game (counting Mew and Dodrio that have yet to be released). 

My point here is, would it be fair for these pokemon to be stronger when the other 32 pokemon can’t Mega Evolve? See, in Pokken Tournament DX, the pokemon that could Mega Evolve will do so when entering Burst Mode. But for the other pokemon, they gain a similar power boost that puts them on par with these evolutions. Here, the other pokemon have no such recourse, so if one of these pokemon went Mega, they would be overpowered. No matter how you balance it, these pokemon would be unable to break through the power level Mega Evolution grants them.

Speaking of balance, if Mega Evolution made the pokemon stronger, then it’s just a simple matter of making the base form weaker to compensate, right? Well, no, that won’t work. In Pokken Tournament and the main games, Mega Evolution operates under the rules that every pokemon is on an even playing field, whether they’re all Level 100, or their stats are shifted around to fit an archetype. That doesn’t happen in Pokemon Unite. If you gain enough EXP early on, you will gain access to your Unite Move. What if that pokemon could Mega Evolve instead? It would widen the EXP gap even further, making comebacks nearly impossible. Any attempt at balancing Mega Evolution would either do too much or too little, so it’s probably for the best that Mega Evolution be omitted altogether.

Most Legendaries

Saved for last, it seems like a given that certain legendary pokemon are...

...way too big. This is nothing like the whole Ridley for Smash debacle, whereas the only compromise they could come up with was to shrink Ridley a bit, and even then, have him crouch constantly to keep him in size.

In Pokemon Unite, there are two ways to put Legendary Pokemon in. If they’re small enough, we can make a spot for them. If they are too big, then they become wild pokemon that act as bosses meant to be overcome. Even some of the small time legendaries get relegated to boss positions, such as Zapdos and Articuno. 

That said, there are some exceptions, apparently.

In the new Theia Sky Ruins map, the 5 elemental golems are going to appear as wild pokemon that can be defeated to gain boosts or experience. Now, certainly, each one would make for a fun Pokemon Unite character to play as, but I suppose it makes sense to have these guys pose as guardians of the ruins. 

Honorable Mentions

-Wailord

For reasons stated above.

-Phione

I mean, why have Phione when you can have Manaphy? Why do you even exist?

Split evolutions

More specifically, pokemon that can have two possible evolutions in one playable character, not at all how Eevee and its evolutions are being impemented in the games. If the pokemon can become a different species entirely, that’ll just complicate things like, who is the Unite License for? 

Like, I thought about making a Bellossom/Vileplume set, but when I tried this with Wormadam in a previous post, I nearly crashed and burned trying to finish that post. I’m proud of what I’ve put out, but I can’t do it again. It especially won’t work for a pokemon whose evolution you can’t control.

However, Scizor is coming out soon, and it’s possible to not evolve and remain a Scyther for the whole battle. That’s a different case.

Unown

There is an Unown rune for each letter of the alphabet including the ? mark and ! mark. They only know one move and, believe it or not, it got removed in Sword and Shield, effectively removing Unown’s status as a pokemon entirely. F in the chat for this little guy. 

Bonus points if you use Unown F.

-

That’s it for this post. If you have any comments I’d love to hear it. Maybe you want to add to this list or disagree with me. Or call me names. I welcome it.

[tbzhours]

bet

sunwoo x you, fwb au, drabble

[summary] sunwoo wants place a bet with you while playing that *pepero game [warning] suggestive; very dirty talk, sexual tension [words] ~900  [a/n] kinda nervous about this but i hope you like it! 

*the pepero game is when one person has the tip of a bread/cookie stick (usually coated with chocolate/other flavors) in their mouth and the other person has to bite at the other end and to make it the shortest length to win! 

You were sore the moment you woke up but it had been a weird time because you don’t usually wake up this early. Sunwoo was still asleep at your side when you got up to wash up and headed to the living room to breathe better from his moist room. 

Since you didn’t feel like leaving Sunwoo’s place, you sat on the floor in front of the couch on the living room floor in your shorts, watching a funny series until you heard him coming out of his room. He washed up already and he had his hands in his sweatpant pockets, trying to see what you were up to before he looked at you. 

“Hey, can I get some?” 

You didn’t realize how many hours had passed by when you turned to your side with a pepero stick sticking out from your mouth. He didn’t care about your glare, chuckling as he brought out his hand to you. He was really clueless after all of the work you did for him the night before and for him to ruin your day in the afternoon, you didn’t dare to give him any. 

“Get your own bag over there.” You focused back on the series you’ve been watching since you woke up a few hours ago and munched down your sticks. You should have left his place since he didn’t have much to eat, other than ramen but you didn’t feel like eating any. 

Sunwoo scoffed and sat next to you. There went your glare again when he smiled at you. You had another stick in your mouth when he tried to take one from the bag in your hand. You shifted it away from him, muffling a “hey” but he just moved in closer to your face. He had a sneaky look when you saw his eyes looking at the stick in your mouth. 

“Should we play that game?” He suggested as he bit his lower lip from the smirk. He took a bite at the end of your stick, obviously teasing that you took it out after he was done. He was laughing when he saw how shocked you looked. “Why do you look like that?” 

“You’re very annoying.” You finished the stick that he took a bite of and looked away from him. 

“Why? Because I didn’t let you grind on me?” He played his tongue on the side of his mouth. 

“That’s why you’re not getting any of these.” After rolling your eyes at him, you suddenly wanted to challenge him to the game. You turned to him, who was still smiling and set a pepero stick into his mouth. “I guess we can play that game. Whoever has the shortest piece left gets to lead next.” 

“Okay.” Sunwoo smirked after taking the stick out of his mouth. “Try then.” 

He set the tip back into his mouth then you went in, covering the coated chocolate with your mouth without taking a bite until your lips almost touched his. He had a cocky look on his face, remembering how you’d do to him when you were in bed with him. 

You set your tiny piece to the side, playing your eyebrows at him because you knew you were winning already. 

“If I win, you’ll do everything I ask you to do when we, you know,” Sunwoo’s lips lapsed and he bopped his head back at his room. 

You groaned and right before you set the tip of the stick into your mouth, you joked to him, hoping he would be fazed. “Now you’ll know how it feels to be sucking a dick.” 

“You’re so funny.” He laughed, shaking his head as he covered his mouth with the back of his hand. “Let’s see who’ll win then.” 

Sunwoo moved in, setting his hand beside your hip. His mouth opened and once he was about half way through the chocolate coat, you started to feel your face burning up. He wasn’t even looking at you and rather, he was focusing on the stick. That was when you suddenly slipped a mumble of “You can do better than that.” 

He caught your eyes with the edge of his lips curving a little then he took two bites, one in the middle and one right at your lips. 

Quickly, he roamed his hands behind you but his body pushed you down until you fell back onto the floor with him between your legs. Your eyes widened at the push as his lips were moving against yours. Your hands held at his shoulders, not knowing if you wanted to push him off or to just let him kiss the hell out of you like he should have. 

The crumbs stayed in his mouth as you wanted to kiss him more, even though you had the same taste in your mouth. It was war because of the tight friction below you and the denial of wanting him. It wasn’t even helping when his hand gripped at your thigh. 

You pushed Sunwoo away seconds later as he smirked, knowing you wanted more when he saw how hard it was for you to breathe in front of him. 

“Why? Do you want more?” 

“I fucking hate you.” You got up and walked into the bathroom to clean yourself up from all of the crumbs on you (and to think about what he just did because you were a hot mess under him). 

As you left, Sunwoo was chewing the leftovers in his mouth with that same smirk on his face. That was all he needed to do to win the game.

[the-iron-orchid]

Hey~

For the kinks ask - can I request 67 for Jinana/Julian? If it's not too weird, ofc!

67: Tickling (erotic or otherwise)

Well, uh, this one’s short but filthy, hope you enjoy! :)

Pairing: Jinana/Julian, Julian POV, ~900 words

Warnings: Bondage, marking, cock bondage, orgasm control, domination, tickle torture

🔞🍋 18+ Only, Minors DNI 🍋🔞

Julian grips the cords that bind his wrists to two corners of the bed’s sturdy canopy frame, arms spread apart. His ankles, too, are bound, his legs equally spread as he stands with his back to the bed itself. (Heron does very good work; this bed has more than stood up to the games that Julian and Jinana play.)

They’ve been playing for some time this evening; Jinana is in a leisurely mood. His body is already well-marked by hir mouth, hir sharp little teeth, hir short nails, and the cords that bind him. His hair is damp with sweat, and his cock and balls ache with need - a need that will only be fulfilled at hir whim, in hir time.

S/he has that part of him, too, bound with silken cords, so that his every movement adds to the torment - he must do his best not to wriggle too much, lest the tugging and friction of the cords send him over the edge before s/he has given him permission to come.

He feels Jinana’s body press to his sweat-slick back, and hir gentle fingers comb the heaviness of his hair back from his face. He lets his head loll back against hir shoulder, and hir teeth catch the lobe of his ear with another exquisite little pain.

“We’re going to play a new game, darling,” s/he tells him, hir voice low in his ear, and he shivers. “You’ve been doing well this evening.” There is a smile in hir voice. “We’ll see how much longer you can last.”

He has a premonition of sorts, even before hir fingertips skate lightly over his sides, his ribs. Julian’s body goes rigid, and he must fight his first instinct, which is to twist away, with his entire being.

Jinana chuckles, and hir fingernails run lightly over his hips, his upper thighs... then his inner thighs, close enough to his groin that he groans aloud with frustrated wanting.

“Oh, dearest, you know you’re not getting off quite that easily.” Hir fingertips trace feather-light patterns back up his hips, and his belly tenses as they travel up toward his waist, moving with a slow intent that makes the anticipation all the worse. Julian is trembling by the time those fingertips start to make their way inexorably up his ribs, and he bites down on his lower lip to muffle a little shriek as his body flinches back uncontrollably. Of course, the movement causes the silken bonds to rub and to pull, making him moan aloud with the sensation.

“Ah ah,” Jinana tells him, hir hands now traveling over his chest, finding his nipples, nails raking over them so very lightly before pinching them between hir fingertips, just the way he likes it. Twin bolts of sweet, sore pleasure strike through his body, making him want to arch back against hir - but he just barely manages to restrain himself, gaining an approving little laugh that is almost drowned out by the sounds he makes. He doesn’t have to be quiet, after all...

Jinana’s warm little hands move out over his sides again - and there’s nothing he can do about it, no way he can stop his body from reacting, from twisting and arching in his restraints, desperately trying to escape the ticklish torment, and completely unable to do so. And every uncontrolled movement brings him closer to the edge, eroding what small control remains to him.

Jinana continues to tickle his ribs without mercy, while Julian desperately grasps at the shreds of his self-control, all sense of anything but this gone from him. Finally, beneath the strangled series of cries and groans he can’t help but to give, hir voice carries itself to his ear, hir words to his brain.

“Oh, Ilya… I want you to come for me. Come for me now.”

The response is imprinted on him now, the trigger of words that almost instantly relaxes his hard-fought control. Hir name is the last thing he manages to say before the orgasm erupts in him with a force that leaves him spasming helplessly in hir arms. Harsh cries tear themselves from his throat as his cock jerks in its own bonds, spurting into the empty air before him. And all the while, s/he does not let him go.

When he can breathe again, Julian finds himself still supported by those slim arms, hir murmuring voice soft and soothing in his ear.

“I know that’s difficult for you, darling. You did so well.” S/he speaks words of magic, and Julian feels the bonds around his lower body and ankles loosen and fall away. Once more, and his wrists slip free as well. Somehow, s/he manages to keep him from falling, easing him down to where he lies across the bed, recovering.

Jinana looks down into his face, cupping his cheek in hir hand and tracing hir thumb over his lips, hir lips curved in a smile. There’s nothing he would not do for that smile.

S/he fits hirself against his side, lightly stroking his hair, his cheek, his chest. Hir touch and hir voice ground him in reality, bringing him back from the place he goes when he submits himself to hir.

“Your endurance has grown so much,” Jinana says. “I’m proud of you, darling.” As always, the words of praise warm him, some inner part of him drinking it in like nourishment.

“Anything for you, my love,” he manages to whisper. “Anything.”

[kicksaddictny]

Kicksaddict Sneakerhead PROFILES Interview Series: @CakedaGawd

After a long Hiatus, we’ve returned! Our popular Profile series has been requested almost on a daily basis (Thanks for the tweets, dms and emails). We were even threatened! (Thanks by the way).

Cake The Gawd! This one was so much fun. Tap in.

Where are you from? Brooklyn, NY born in Crown Heights raised in East Flatbush.

How long have you been collecting sneakers? I was introduced to sneakers in 1991 but I started collecting for myself in 98.

What’s your favorite sneaker and why? Air Jordan 6 Infrared. It's the shoe Michael was wearing when he won his first championship, and to me just it’s just the most beautiful Jordan shoe to date! The silhouette is unmatched, it is timeless, and no matter how many times it is retroed I will buy it!

Besides your hometown, what is the best city for sneakerheads that you know of? Why? I would say LA 100% !! It is a vibe out there. I am part of a sneaker group and 75% of the people in there are from LA. They really about the culture they know their shit and they are fresh as fuck too.

Do you collect just for collecting or do you collect and rock? I collect and rock. That is why I double up on certain shoes.. Some kicks you gotta have for store and show but some you just have to rock them!

What sneaker got you into the sneaker game? I cannot pinpoint one thing, it is so many things. It was Music, my parents introducing me to Nike, my older cousin, basketball, the dope boys around the way, and my 3rd grade crush and her cousin who both had Aqua 8's. (LOL) I cannot just say 1 thing because they all had a significant part in it.

What are your thoughts on these fake celebrity sneakerheads? I hate them all! All of these dudes just get perks, some of them do not even know the shoes. That shit really gets under my skin. Showing off shoes that they get and not even knowing the name or numbers of the shoes, creating their own names. Shit is sickening. S/O to the Sneaker Gawd Wale !

How do you feel about the Off white collabs? I liked the first round of the collabs. With the Presto's, Air maxes, Blazers, and Jordan 1's. I think after that it should've been left alone. But I can respect what they are doing over there. I just won my first pair of Off-White's with the Lot 50 joint.

If you could wear only one sneaker for the rest of your life, what would it be? Air Jordan 3 Black Cement. Yes 6's are my favorite of all time but the Black Cement 3's just go with EVERYTHING!

What advice would you give as far as storing and preservation of your sneakers? Wear your kicks man. I store and rock! I get it, wanting to save shoes but putting them away and never rocking them, when you finally do ya it’s separating and crumbling. In order for your kicks to last they gotta be worn anyway. Unless you're truly just on some collecting only for show vibes.

What is the most you’ve ever spent on a pair of sneakers? $900... I was able to land Black and Red and Royal 1's from 2001 together. A friend of mine had them and said he couldn't think of anyone else. I had literally just started my new job. A chunk of my first check went to that pick up.

Have you ever waited in line for a pair of kicks? I waited in line once in my life for shoes and swore I would never do it again. It was for the 2001 True Blue 3's. I waited online at like 7 in the morning at Kings Plaza. LMAO I said this will never happen again. I didn't have the patience for it. I do not know how ppl used to do that shit or camp for kicks. I was there for 1 hour and I was like this is ridiculous.

You're also a photographer, how long have you been taking photos? I have been taking photos since 2011 but officially became a photographer in 2013.

How do sneakers play a role in your photography? That is a great question because I didn't want the 2 to mix at all. Because I'm a scenery and landscape photographer. But I got into photography because of sneakers. No offense to anyone but a bunch of these  "influencers" get on IG with their DSLR cameras, take some on foot shots and call themselves "Photographers". 90% of them do not even understand lighting. I didn't wanna be one of those guys because I actually live this and study it. But recently I just started letting it be that and owning it. I am nice with this photography shit when it comes to sneakers. I have a deep connection with shoes and I love incorporating that into my art. I thank my wife for that. I told her I don't wanna be just another sneaker photographer and she said to me who said you have to be ?! I took that and ran with it. Off-White just recently featured some of my pictures on their Instagram.

I remember you saying you're a sneaker enthusiast, what is the difference between that and a sneakerhead? An enthusiast really studies sneakers. Sneakerheads just love sneakers like it ain't really about the history and all that for them. They just love shoes because it is cool and makes them feel good. Us Enthusiasts are invested. Things matter like knowing years of a shoe. For example, an enthusiast would look at a pair of Jordan's like Taxi 12's, We know Michael wore those in the 1996 - 97 season, but we also know that Martin gave away a pair on his show for the Christmas episode to the kid who had holes in shoes. They are tied to iconic moments. A sneakerhead may love Bordeaux 7's because they are dope looking shoes. Where for me it's that Michael Jordan wore those in a video with Michael Jackson and Kris Kross in the 92 Jam video. MJ and MJ in a video with Kris Kross, do you know what that did to my childhood?! Give you one more example that is not even Michael Jordan related. Piggy backing off of Kris Kross,The Patrick Ewing’s were one of my favorite kicks growing up besides seeing Pat play in them one of my favorite Hip Hop covers of all time is "Totally Krossed Out" and Kris Kross is wearing both colorways. So you see what I mean there is so much tied to it with being an enthusiast. This is just my opinion though some may not agree so don't shoot me! (Ha)

From the time you started collecting up until now, would you say that the sneaker game changed for the best or the worst? I have been collecting for 20 plus years now. I have seen the game at it's best, I have seen it die, I have seen it revive, and now I am witnessing the death of it again. The sneaker game is disgusting right now, and I honestly do not think it will ever recover. It really saddens me. It is a popularity and money contest right now.

Does pricing affect your collection? Hell No! And I hate that some people are trying to make this the norm. IDGAF if you paid $500 - $2000 for a pair, It doesn't mean shit.  The narrative is getting outta hand.

What does the word “Hypebeast” mean to you? Hypebeast is a person that only buys shit for status and popularity. They cannot form their own opinion about shit. They have to wear and cop items based on what every celeb is wearing or whatever these Social Media "Influencers" are saying is hot! It is not only sneaker related either. N*ggaz were hypebeasting for PS5 last year..

What are your thoughts on the females in the sneaker game? They are the best! I wish we had a Sneaker union and it was only run by females! The men in this game are annoying and so over the top. It is so bad that they feel the need to compete with women. The men get shoes just to show off to one another. Like what type of shit is that? The females are cool. I had a dude on twitter tell me women don't know the value of a shoe let alone about the shoe. The men feel like they always gotta try to shit on the women. The women are just trying to be part of the culture and enjoy it. And they shouldn't have to try to be part of something that is open to anyone who is willing to be invested and understand the culture.

Any advice for a young kid coming up in the sneaker game? Wear what you like! Respect the game and the people who have been doing it before you. Because this new generation of sneakerheads are little entitled dicks. No respect whatsoever!! I don't care about Travis Scott shoes. Without Jordan being who he is Travis wouldn't have a Jordan silhouette to collaborate with! Same with Off-White. These silhouettes were here before these guys. Say know your history and pay homage!! BUT STAY humble.

See I follow you and I'm loving the way you include your daughter in your work, what does that mean to you? Man, it is beautiful!!!! Without even trying she is invested in the culture. Both photography and shoes. Myself and my wife are both heavy into photography, art, music, sneakers, and clothes. My daughter is into all the same things but we are letting it be her own experience. We are not forcing anything on her. We want her to enjoy being a child and whatever things she picks up from us along the way is just a bonus. But I love shooting her, and I love when she asks myself and her mother "do we like her fit". It is truly a blessing man!

All photos by CAKEDAGAWD

Follow : https://twitter.com/CakedaGawd 

https://www.instagram.com/whatsinthesyrup/

[highpope]

a cute, wholesome blurb for your night.

warnings: none :) 

wordcount: 900

requested: yep! @amoreagron -  Hi! I saw your little JJ fluff blurb about being sick and it was too cute! If you’re feelin’ froggy, how’d you feel doing a little fluffy thing where JJ finds out Reader is a huge nerd (like lord of the rings and stuff) and gently makes fun of her, but then sits there and lets her talk about everything and fun facts and quotes and just falls more in love with her. Kinda sounds stupid now that I write it out but JJ fluff is all I need! xoxo

notes: This was super fun to write! I hope you don’t mind I focused on hp and not lord of the rings (i admit that i know close to nothing ab it) thanks for the ask!! *** I do requests! Feedback is welcomed and appriciated 

You were nestled into your bed, covers pulled up to your chin, rereading your favorite Harry Potter book, The Prisoner of Azkaban. It had been raining for days and while you were upset you couldn’t spend the days surfing or at bonfires with your friends, you were perfectly content to sit inside. You hadn’t spent the whole time reading, though. You decided to watch The Lord of the Rings movies with your younger brother the days before. They were his favorite movies and you had read the books growing up. Something about rainy nights made you feel nostalgic for a world you hadn’t lived in, only read about.

You were lost into your book again until a heavy knock came from your window. You switched the light on and peered out into the dark storm only to see your boyfriend, water dripping down his face.

“JJ, what are you doing?” you exclaimed, opening the window and pulling him through. Once he was inside, you rifled through your closet for a towel and a pair of his sweatpants he had left behind. This wasn’t the first time he had climbed the roof and knocked on your bedroom window and you could bet it wouldn’t be the last.

“Maybe I wanted to see my girlfriend”

“We’ve got a door, Maybank, and I have a phone” you threw the clean clothes and towels and laughed at his disgruntled figure. His hair and clothes were soaked. His face red from the wind. His eyes were still bright regardless. You couldn’t help but smile at him.

“Do you?” He asked, “I’ve been texting you all day.”

A sudden pang of guilt washed over you, had he? You didn’t even know where your phone was.

JJ quickly came back into your room, wet clothes discarded, drying his hair off with the towel you had lended him. 

“I’m sorry, baby,” you replied, pursing your lips out. JJ chuckled and shrugged it off, “Do you have one of my shirts? I’m freezing.” To prove his point he grabbed your face with his hands. Instantly, goosebumps covered your body. You screeched, pushing JJ’s hands off of your cheeks, “Check my closet, geez.”

While he searched for something warmer to put on, you crawled under the blankets, wrapping them around your torso. JJ pulled on a dark blue long sleeve. The color brought out his bright eyes and flushed cheeks. He instantly crawled under the covers, too. You felt his arms wrap around you as he brought you closer to him. His face burrowed into the back of your neck, his breath was warm on your skin. His hair was tickling you, “J-” you started, softly.

“No, please I’m so cold.” He begged. You obliged, allowing this winter boy to absorb your body heat and scatter kisses on your shoulder. 

“What did you do today?” He asked when you finally broke apart. JJ intertwined his legs with yours and sat across from you, both of you under a mound of blankets.

“I was just reading, nothing too exciting,” you said, motioning to your bookshelf. It was an impressive collection to say the least. It was filled with books from secondhand shops, some you had traded with your friends way back in middle school, and even some that the library was going to throw out. The covers were too torn or someone had spilled coffee on a few pages. The Harry Potter series was at the top, followed by all the Percy Jackson books and The Hunger Games. A few from english class had scattered the pile and a few nonfiction ones. 

“Have you really read all of those?”

“Yeah,” you laughed nervously. You knew JJ wasn’t very keen on reading for school. You didn’t want him to think you were trying to brag or put him down

He studied the shelf before speaking again, “I think I’ve seen a few of those movies. It’s like a magic school?”

“Kinda!” You lit up, “More like the kids are magic. There are a bunch of wizards and they get sorted into houses at the beginning of their first year and there’s this whole competition where the professors can award points and the house with the most points wins the house cup. But that’s really not even the plot to, like, any of the books actually. I’m a hufflepuff. I’d honestly say you’re probably a slytherin, but not in a bad way.” 

You stop, realizing you have been talking nonsense for far too long. JJ has a smug grin on his face which makes your ears turn red.  

“Sorry,” you muttered, playing with the hem of the blanket.

“God, you are such a nerd, babe.”

“Stop,” you laugh, pushing JJ’s shoulder.

“It’s cute!” JJ pulls your hair to make you face him, “It’s so cute, like too cute to even look at you.” You, again, feel the blush spreading across your face. You scrunch up your nose, making a face at him.

“So cute,” he said again and kissed the tip of your nose and then your cheek, “C’mon tell me more. Why am I a slu..sly..”

“Slytherin.” 

“Yeah, that.” He said, kinda bouncing before laying down next to you and snuggling his head into your stomach. You placed one hand on his back, lightly drawing shapes with your nails and began telling the story.

[green-and-grey-kenaz]

I Sleep with the Dirt by Fire Glow

Language: English

Chapter 1:  Please pull me from the dark

Characters in Chapter: Regulus Black, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin (Briefly),  Albus Dumbledore (Briefly)

Chapter Summary:

Regulus is returned to life after his body has been kept in stasis as an inferius. It takes some getting used to, being alive again. Sirius meanwhile is dealing with having to look after a somewhat wild brother and not being able to adopt Harry, like he promised.

Word Count: c. 5 900

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/34049455/chapters/84695911

It was strange. Bright. Pain. Noise. Smells. Thoughts. Feels. Sights.

Food.

He lunged, grabbing the prey which shrieked, only getting shriller as teeth tore into it. He pulled his head back and tasted sweet iron. Something grabbed him, forced his jaw open. He snarled. He was hungry and this was his food. He had rightfully caught it.

There was more noise and he turned, glowering. He hated the noises that they made at him. He had a sense that once it might have meant something but now they were empty sounds. It was infuriating.

The one he did not want to eat was there. That one was skinny. Bones. Bones weren’t food. He could crunch them to get food, but the skinny one was still not food. He did not know when the concept of food had come. But the desire to kill the warm moving ones had become a painful urge to fix an emptiness within. Hunger. Skinny was not that though. There was more to the bony one. That was why it was not food.

The other one was tempting but it could stop him. He had tried.

It always knew. It was always prepared.

They made noises to each other as food was placed into his hand. It wasn’t fresh but he tore at it, snarling at anyone who got too close. Too soon, food was gone and he licked his fingers. They were tasty.

Bony was there, hand on his arm. He snarled and Bony flinched but made noises at him. Soft sounds that soothed and promised safety. Bony took something damp and pressed it against his face, rubbed it over his fingers. He liked the damp and wet. It was like a home in that dark, wet cave. The bony one continued to make the noises and gently shifted his limbs. It was a more comfortable position. The old one came and muttered words. He tried to shift and get at it but Bony was being gentle with him and captured his attention once more.

He did not know what he was doing here. He had known, back at the cave. Or perhaps it had not been a knowing – it was more like a state of being. There had been no knowing, just guarding. Devour any that touched the water. Wait. Constant waiting. Protect.

A part of him had something different. A part had been sleeping, almost too deep for dreams but that part had been more alive. There had been the vaguest sense of a series of sounds that had defined it. Memories that had created it.

He could not remember the memories now. They were like the fish that sometimes made their way to his deep waters and were devoured by their many hungry mouths. Flashing, briefly there and so powerfully sating. Then gone. The Bony one perhaps came from there. It came from somewhere deep within. That was why he didn’t eat it.

Bony looked at him, it gave an expression. The lips curled slightly at the ends and it helped him to lie down and pulled the soft warmth over him. It took his head and held it until boredom closed his eyes.

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_- _-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

“No, Regulus.” Sirius said firmly as his brother held the raw, half eaten chicken breast in his hand, teeth bared and showing the remnants of his midnight snack.

This was not what Sirius needed. He didn’t need Regulus back. He ran his hand through his hair, guilt sparking in his stomach at that thought. No, he did need Regulus back. Just not with the caveat that he would have to fight off the magic that had kept his body frozen as a minion for Voldemort. Because that was a lot to deal with when you were fresh out of Azkaban. As was knowing that if it hadn’t been for Regulus’ soul somehow taking root deep inside him, if Dumbledore hadn't realised that… well his brother's body would still be in that cave. Dead and violated, twisted by Dark Magic. The thought was sickening.

Yet it was because of Regulus that he had been told he couldn’t take Harry into his home. Harry Potter, James’ son. Sirius' very own Godson, who he had sworn an oath to protect. A boy who was criminally neglected by his supposed guardians. Sirius had waited all this time to get Harry back in his life. He had told the boy he could move in with him. It wasn't fair that he had to look after a kid who should be grown and able to take care of himself.

Sirius resented Regulus for that. He resented that a lot when Regulus had never shown him any love or care back when they had lived together. It had always been ‘why can’t you just behave?’, ‘why must you hurt mother so?’, ‘can’t you just get it into your thick skull that we are better than everyone else and that it is our duty to rule?’. Well, Regulus didn’t look much better than anyone else with his half-eaten chicken breast clutched in one hand.

“Put it down. You’re going to be sick enough as it is.” Probably. Apparently inferii had pretty tough guts because Regulus had taken to eating a whole host of raw things (the healer had not been impressed to find that out). Unfortunately for his brother, the closer he got back to being counted amongst the living, the more raw meat did not agree with him.  

Regulus shifted the chicken breast closer to his mouth, staring a challenge down at Sirius.

“No.” Sirius growled and Regulus froze. In that second, Sirius took the time to consider the situation. The pantry had been charmed closed. If Regulus had opened it, that had to mean he was getting his magic back which would not be ideal because Sirius didn’t need a magic wielding, zombie brother. He groaned, running a hand down his face and Regulus quickly took a bite of the chicken.

“Regulus!” Sirius roared and his brother jumped, dropping the chicken breast and quick as a flash, made for the door. Sirius swore and lunged after him, wrapping the smaller body and pinning his arms while his hands went to wrap around Regulus’ wrists. He might be skinny after his time in Azkaban but Regulus was still only seventeen (he’d be eighteen if counting the days – he died days before his birthday a voice whispered in his head) and apparently hadn’t been taking care of himself in the lead up to his death. He’d been all skin and bones when they dragged him out and the inferius voracious appetite was not doing much to put weight back on his frame.

The tiny body squirmed in his grasp, twisting his head and sinking his teeth into Sirius’ dressing gown.

“Stop that, Regulus.” Sirius was softer this time, trying to be more reassuring now the chicken was gone. While most people seemed fair game for eating, Sirius had yet to be bitten. Oh, Regulus threatened to and Sirius did not trust himself to sleep without a heavily warded door, but he’d had no more than panicked bites that stopped short of bruising his skin. He pulled Regulus over to a sink and with some effort managed to get warm water running. Forcing Regulus’ hands under, he glanced around for the soap as his brother started to relax.

“See, nothing wrong, Reggie.” He said soothingly, rubbing the lavender scented soap against his brother’s pale skin. He got a cloth to clean Regulus’ face likewise. His brother squirmed but did not resist.

“Just cleaning you up. You know, if you get hungry, you can come to me. Just knock on the door. I’ll make you something.” He told Regulus this every time but he had little way to tell if it went in. His brother made a noise though and leaned into him.

“Right, all cleaned up now. Not much point eating until you’ve got this out your system.” He said, turning Regulus and giving him a once over. He didn’t let Regulus wear anything with long sleeves, unless attended which just made his arms look like skinny sticks but it made moments like this easier. It didn’t look like Regulus had gotten anything on him.

“Kreacher!” Sirius called.

The House Elf appeared. Sirius knew he lived in a cupboard in the kitchen and he found it ever so infuriating that he didn’t help keep Regulus from eating raw meats. Unfortunately, Kreacher was rather dedicated to ‘the young master’, even if that meant letting him eat things he shouldn’t.

“Clean up the mess and then bring the sick basin into the Parlour. I’m staying up with Regulus until we know if this is going to pass through or not. And next time stop letting him eat raw meat.”

Regulus growled at Sirius for his tone, dark eyes narrowing and Sirius groaned.

“Please.” He added, trying to make his tone sweet because he could do with Regulus not waking up mother’s portrait, which was what he would do if in a strop. She only got agitated seeing Regulus in such a state and it didn’t help that Sirius was there either.

“Kreacher lives to serve the Noble House of Black.” The House Elf grovelled, bowing low and Sirius bit back his retort and instead said through gritted teeth.

“Thank you. Kreacher.”

Regulus seemed to accept that as genuine because he smiled and let himself be guided out with minimum fuss. In fact, he looked rather over the moon to be taken into the Parlour where he took his customary seat as Sirius set the fire up and carefully made sure to place the fire protector so Regulus wouldn’t accidentally get too close.

Warmth was something that Regulus seemed drawn to. He loved the fire, he loved the sun, he loved being wrapped in warm hugs when before he’d always been hesitant about touch. It felt like someone else walking about in his brother’s skin. It was not a comfortable thought but Dumbledore insisted that Regulus would come back to his senses. They had to treat this like a flu that his body was fighting off.

His brother was curled up, small limbs all folded in close, and Sirius pulled a blanket over him. Regulus jumped and snarled before realising it was him and calming back down.

“Fire.” He said, giving a nod towards the flames.

“Yes, Reg, fire.” Sirius confirmed, sighing and settling down next to his brother, carding his hand through his hair. Regulus made a small humming noise which Sirius knew to mean he was pleased with himself. Speaking was… a challenge and at times, it could be especially frustrating. Some days, Regulus could manage to string together a sentence and others would be solely animalistic snarls.

Kreacher came in and placed the sick basin down. Regulus smiled at him and Sirius let his brother do whatever it was he did with Kreacher. There was no denying that there was something protective within Regulus when it came to Kreacher and Sirius wondered whether something had happened to Kreacher before Regulus had died. The old House Elf would let Regulus check him over with agitated hands before pulling him in tight for quite a while.

No one knew quiet what had happened and Kreacher was not elaborating. The only information that legimency had been able to glean from Regulus’ soul attached onto Sirius was where he had died. Snape, and Sirius still shivered to think on that, had impressed on them that whatever had happened, it was more important to Regulus than merely the place he had died. It was the one thing that bound him to this earthly plane and even in death, he kept shielded with occlumency.

Dumbledore had uncovered some things. They’d seen that unearthly green glow across the water of the cave and after he’d brought Regulus’ bound and writhing corpse… After Snape had helped coax Regulus’ soul back into it… Dumbledore had returned.

Sirius still remembered that note that Dumbledore had placed into his hand. Regulus’ curved and delicate hand writing. That would have been his last words on this earth. It had been chilling.

Voldemort had created a Horcrux and Regulus had intended to die destroying it. It was clear that he had found it but no one knew where the original was. Snape had confessed that although he and Regulus had shared a friendship, he had had no word about this from Regulus. Kreacher feigned ignorance and Sirius knew that was the case because he had caught Kreacher hurting himself after saying he knew nothing.

He had ordered Kreacher to tell him because he knew that Kreacher knew but that was the closest Regulus had come to hurting him. His brother had flown in, snarling rage, with clawing hands and hadn’t calmed for a week.

Sirius sighed and stared at Regulus, who was lying, eyes half closed as Kreacher now comforted him, singing him songs in Kreacher’s own language. Regulus didn’t sleep. Not since they’d brought him back. At most he dozed. Sometimes by the fire, more often when someone cradled him in warm sunlight. Sirius figured that Regulus felt he had been sleeping enough with fifteen years of being dead. That he might fear that his sleep would bring that again. Certainly rest seemed to bring out the inferius in him. Always a step back from whatever improvement he had built up.

Harry would be easier.

Harry deserved the love that Regulus was given. Dumbledore visited once a week to chat with Regulus – a kid who could barely speak at the moment. Even Snape visited, although he kept these visits to once a month due to the fact that strife seemed to upset Regulus, otherwise he would no doubt be a more frequent visitor. Remus, Merlin knew how, tolerated Regulus. The first few times, Regulus had gone for Remus’ throat and had to be stunned. Remus brought bribes of chocolate frogs and still, Regulus would sit between them once he had finished chasing his meal.

One day he had told Sirius ‘ ‘trayed you. Left you.’. Sirius had tried to explain that he had betrayed Remus, that it was him that hadn’t trusted. But Regulus had touched his chest and said one word. Hurt.

Regulus could tell that no matter what had happened, Sirius had felt betrayed by Remus. That one of his childhood friends had not fought for his freedom… it stung and it didn’t matter how irrational that was because to Regulus, it was real and if he didn’t sit there, protecting Sirius, Remus might hurt him.

Merlin, this was messed up.

“Bad.” Regulus said, stiffening, and Sirius grabbed the basin, handing it over to Regulus who retched into the bowl as Sirius rubbed his back in what he hoped were soothing circles. Kreacher vanished the sick between breaks in his brother’s throwing up.

“There you go. Better out. It’s OK.” He said, using his other hand to pull Regulus’ hair out of his face.

Harry wouldn’t eat raw meat and then need a guardian to look out for him. Sirius winced as Regulus threw up again, sounding rather painful as he shuddered, fingers clawing at the ceramic. At the very least Regulus might exhaust himself and doze. That would be nice. Some peace and not having to rely on paintings waking him up whenever Regulus decided to go on his walks.

Sirius yawned and Regulus paused from his heaving, looking up with dark, pain filled eyes.

They were his brother’s eyes. His little brother, who had died alone in a cave to try and bring down Voldemort. Regulus. The soft little idiot who thought he’d take on the world alone because he had no one else to turn to. Sirius hadn’t been there for him.

Regulus doubled over again and moaned in pain and Sirius returned to rubbing his head. Yes, he resented his brother for a lot of things. It had been a long time since Regulus had brought him joy but every time he looked into those eyes, he saw a kid he’d failed. Someone he should have been there for. Perhaps, the guilt would give way to love at some point.

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_- _-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

Regulus snarled at the man who came in through the door. Sirius grabbed him and pulled him away, placing an arm out to stop him getting at the man.

“No, it’s alright Sirius. You said he had a turn last night. It’s fine.” The man… the wolf… said, reaching into his pockets with slow movements. He pulled something out, fiddling with it and suddenly Regulus found his focus forced to something moving fast. He dashed after it and it jumped away. Another pounce and he had it wrapped in his hands, feeling his prey wiggling, trying to get out. A quick crush and he broke it. Opening his hands, Regulus started to pick at its brown, sweet flesh, crushing it between his teeth. It was good. Tasty. Bits fell to the floor and he cleaned up those traces as well.

Good. He’d killed it.

Feeling more content with this, Regulus wandered through the house, trying to recall what had happened before. He had chased his prey but something important had happened before that. What was it?

Voices.

Ah, the wolf.

Regulus dashed to the warm room where the fire was merrily burning and Sirius sat with the wolf, his brother lounging across the sofa and the wolf, the betrayer of his brother, sat on a chair.

“Sirius said you’ve started to collect the cards.” The wolf said, looking up as he entered and stalked to sit in front of his brother. Sirius may have forgotten but Regulus remembered the pain his brother had felt when the wolf hadn’t saved him from whatever had happened. It would only be a matter of time before it happened again.

Regulus looked at the offered card but did not take it. Sirius shifted forward, plucked the card from the wolf’s hand and placed it in Regulus’ own, wrapping his fingers around it.

“You’ve been wanting this one, remember?” He said and Regulus stared at the picture.

“S… Slyth… Slytherin. Salazar.” He managed to get the words out, forcing his mouth and tongue to roll around the foreign sounds. There was a vague sense that this had once been easy, like breathing. He had a concept of breathing now. He remembered realising that he breathed.

“Yep! Rarer than the other Founders because no one wants him.” Sirius said, in a jolly tone. Regulus stared at it. He knew this one mattered to him. He knew that some days he could remember why he mattered. Grey eyes shifted to look up at the wolf.

“Trick.” He said.

“I watched him take the card out, it’s not a trick Reg.” Sirius said, rubbing his head. Regulus growled and glared at the two. He had no idea how the wolf could just waltz in and make Sirius forget the pain that he had caused.

“Regulus.” That was the stern voice. He barred his teeth at the tone then flinched as Sirius went to grab him.

“Sirius, it’s okay.” The wolf said hastily, producing another box.

“No, if he can’t play nice he shouldn’t get nice things.” Sirius said. The wolf hesitated with his bribes. Regulus hated that they talked about him as if he wasn’t here. He could understand them, their noises made his mind know. It was just hard to remember how to make the noises back.

“Sirius, you said other than the relapse, he’s doing better.” The wolf said before looking at him.

“Would you like another chocolate frog, Regulus?” He asked and his tone was nice. It was always nice and Regulus did not trust that. He did, however, like the frogs. He eyed the box up and licked his lips, thinking on how good its flesh would be.

“Please.”

The wolf hands over the frog, his prize, and Regulus clutched the box tight in his hands. It is his now and it feels good to own things. The desire to consume now falls away and he leaned against the sofa, staring. Sirius went back to talking but the words wash over him. There’s something unsettled in him, a poking feeling that makes his limbs feel restless. Something he should be doing.

Regulus gets up and follows the feeling.

It takes him to his room. There is a draw there with lines. He traces them. Line with three with three lines. Two hills. A curve and circle. Emergency. It is scrawled in a very slow and deliberate attempt to be neat.

He pulls the draw open and inside are boxes, unopened. A collection of frogs. Because sometimes he could plan for the future. That maybe one day he’d want a frog when he wasn’t being given one. That they were useful. Regulus placed the box inside with the rest, then on second thought he shifts it down to the bottom. Older ones on top. Cycle through.

He closes the draw and looks at the top of his desk.

On there sits a hairbrush, with a symbol engraved into its handle. Regulus traced the symbol.

It was a gift, from mother. His initials made into one image. He’d been ten when gifted it. The handle had been big in his hands and he knew its worth. Grabbing it, Regulus brought the brush through his hair, wincing as it tugged at knots. Sometimes Sirius held him down and ran a comb through his black hair. Sirius would try to be gentle. Regulus did not.

His scalp stung but his hair was fixed.

Investigating his desk, Regulus next found a vial. It smelt of woods on hot summer days. The smell pulled memories of walks with friends like Barty or Severus. It was comforting. A pot held a cream, near dried out but which moistened as his fingers touched it. Regulus sniffed his fingers. It was a gentle hint of night blooming jasmine. He’d chosen it because of that. One summer, they had stayed in Southern France and each evening meal had been punctuated by that smell. It reminded him of family and love. He rubbed the cream against his face, a familiar gesture. His fingers found their own and rubbed it into his skin which softened.

The smells of the wood went on the neck and wrists. He remembered that now.

A tub full of powdered silver used the brush to add flakes to his skin so he looked otherworldly and more than the peasants around him.

There was a ribbon. He used it to tie his hair back into a ponytail, leaving just enough loose to frame his face. That took too many goes until it was satisfactory but what stared out at him was a face that he might remember.

Regulus glanced down at his clothes. Attire.

Sirius dressed him in robes that cut off above his elbows, short at the legs and with a split. He knew his movement could be erratic. It was the outfit of a child.

His wardrobe was empty of suitable garb.

Regulus went into the room next to his. Sirius’. The one his brother did not sleep in but was so painfully his. Sometimes Regulus understood why it hurt. Mostly, though, he couldn’t remember. There, in the draws were proper robes. Long, rich and flowing. They smelt of mothballs and dust but it was still a better alternative. He pulled the robes on and they came up short. It made no sense because Sirius was taller than him. Older than him.

But it was more presentable.

Regulus made his way downstairs and back to the parlour. He breezed in and took a seat near the fire. It hurt to sit up straight. His body did not seem to like it but Regulus knew it was proper and expected of him. He didn’t know who expected it.

“Hey Reggie.” Sirius smiled.

“Siri.” He said with a nod. Even that took too much effort. How had this once been so easy?

“You look good.” Wolf smiled.

“Are… are those my old robes?”

Regulus glanced away.

“I hadn’t realised that old hag had kept them.”

“M.” Regulus glared at Sirius. “Mother.”

Sirius raised an eyebrow.

“Love.” Regulus said firmly.

“She never felt an ounce of love for us, Reg.” Sirius said, laughing callously. Regulus felt his muscles twitch.

“Sirius.” Wolf cautioned, leaning forwards and placing a hand on the arm of Sirius’ chair.

“What? It’s the truth.”

“You said they kept the room the same as you’ve left it.” Wolf said softly.

“Probably never noticed I left.” Sirius scoffed.

“Or they were waiting for you to come home.” Wolf pointed out gently.

“Fat chance.”

“Did.” Regulus said.

Sirius turned his attention back to him.

“Did they come by the Potters to collect me? Turn up at the Express to pick me up? Ever write me a letter? No, Reg, they didn’t. No one did.”

Regulus pulled his legs in closer, feeling eyes water but he couldn’t be weak. Not in front of the wolf.

“Time. Needed time. Then back.” He whispered. That’s what he’d been told. His brother would come back, he just needed space to realise that he still loved them, that nothing was as important as family. Days became weeks, weeks became months. He just needed more time. He’d come back, see his room kept just as it had been when he had left and would realise that they loved him.

“Sirius-” The wolf said, reaching for Regulus’ brother but he pushed the man’s hands away.

“No! They didn’t care!” Sirius said, his voice shaking and Regulus realised he had zoned out for some of the conversation between the two. He also remembered that the wolf was called Remus.

“I’m not saying that the way they treated you was okay, Sirius. It was wrong and it was good that you got out of it when you did because it was destroying you. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t care. That’s what makes it harder.”

“No one could love their child and put them through that. They didn’t love me. They couldn’t have.”

“I did.” Regulus said softly. Sirius glanced up and ran a hand down his face.

“You didn’t put me through anything, Reg. You were the only thing that made home bearable.” It was a comforting lie and Regulus shook his head.

“I was with mother and father.” He said, his words slow as each rolled around his mouth. “I did not help you.”

“That’s because you were soft enough to believe our parents. You were soft.” Sirius said. Regulus shook his head and stared at his arm.

“I joined.” He pointed out.

“Because they forced you.” Sirius insisted.

“I thought ‘twas right.” Regulus said quietly.

“They brainwashed you.”

Regulus shrugged. Sirius wasn’t convinced but at least he wasn’t fighting.

“I didn’t help you.” He repeated.

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_- _-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

Sirius stared at the cold, blank eyes staring up at him.

“James… Lily.” He whispered, hands trembling as they reached forwards, hesitant to cradle the corpses of his friends. As he reached out, he realised his hands were uncomfortably warm. Glancing down, he saw them dripping red. His friends’ skin tore open, pouring blood. He had done this. He was drowning in their blood and the world around him got dark. His heart quickened as a cold touch grabbed his heart and tightened. Slimy hands wrapped around his throat, his legs, his arms. A rattling death gasp and he was falling deeper and deeper.

Sirius screamed, starting awake, thrashing underneath duvet covers as his door banged as if it were about to be smashed in.

He swore and grabbed his wand, unlocking the door and Regulus flew in, snarling at the darkness in the corners of his room and hovering protectively over him.

Sirius’ heart was pounding and his body trembling and he did not have time for Regulus not being OK. He did not want a snarling brother trying to bite his nightmares.

“Reggie, it’s okay. Just a nightmare. Nothing’s attacking me.” Sirius gasped out, trying to place a hand on his brother’s arm to try and comfort him. He did not need a jumpy inferius. Regulus jumped, then glanced around.

“Dream?” He asked. His voice sounded young, uncertain of how to pronounce different words.

“Bad dream.” Sirius confirmed, rubbing Regulus’ arm. His brother calmed down a lot faster than he did and then dashed off to do Merlin knew what. Probably whatever inferii did when everyone else was supposed to be sleeping.

Sirius fell back against the bed. He could feel tears pricking at his eyes but Blacks did not cry. Not the women, not the children, not the men. But if a Black cried and no one was there to see, did they really cry?

Sirius covered his eyes and drew in a shaky breath. He was fine. The dementors weren’t here. It was Peter who had killed James and Lily. Dumbledore had gotten him a pardon for that. The world now knew he was innocent. He would never get sent back th-

Something dropped on his stomach and Sirius let out a blood curdling scream, flinging his arm away from his face to stare up into the shocked face of Regulus.

“Wha?” He asked, glancing down, terrified to find out what Regulus might consider an appropriate midnight gift.

It was a chocolate frog.

Still in its wrapping.

Regulus nudged it towards Sirius with a hesitant smile.

“Thanks.” Sirius said softly. Regulus openly grinned back and dashed over to a chair, watching him. Sirius sighed and took the offered gift, opening it up and carefully grabbing the frog before it could jump. He saw Regulus start, ready to hunt, but control the urge. Remus always said chocolate was the best cure for dementors. It was sweet and creamy and thawed out some part of his chest.

“You saved this?” Sirius asked in sudden realisation. Regulus frowned then gave a nod.

“I can’t kill the nightmares.” He said in his slow and carefully thought out way. “Chocolate might. I think I read it once.”

“Yeah. It does.” Sirius gave a small smile. This was progress. Maybe soon they could have Harry here safely.

“What dream?” Regulus asked, words slipping in perhaps an excitement at being able to keep a conversation going.

Sirius shook his head. He was not going back there. Not at all.

“I can’t… Were you asleep?” He decided, trying to turn the conversation to something he might manage. Regulus frowned and Sirius noticed the dark shadows under his eyes. He hadn’t realised before. They must have slowly built up as Regulus’ body became more and more alive. The frown had made his eyes look sunken in and not too unlike the face Sirius still saw in the mirror.

“Can’t.” Regulus agreed and he went to sit on Sirius’ bed, head hanging down.

“Hey, it’s OK. No one expects you to get back to normal immediately.” Sirius said softly, shifting to pull his brother into a hug. Regulus fell against him. Warm. Alive. Sirius could feel his heartbeat against his side. It was strong.

“Do you need food?” Sirius asked. Regulus shook his head. Well, at least that was something.

“Want you safe.”

Sirius sighed.

“Well, since neither of us are sleeping, why don’t we go into the parlour?” He suggested, throwing off the bed covers and grabbing his dressing gown and wand. On second thought, he also picked up his bottle of firewhisky that rested on his bed side table. It was depressingly low and Sirius hadn’t yet plucked up the courage to do his own shopping. There was only so often he could ask Moony to pick up booze, even when spaced out between what remained of father’s cabinet.

Maybe mother’s cabinet. She’d outlived him and Reg by years.

He hated thinking that he might be using anything she owned.

Regulus followed him on deadly silent feet. It was unnerving. Sirius always felt that Regulus was just about to pounce. They managed to get through to the parlour with no murders and Regulus took his customary place by the fire, waiting expectantly. Sirius muttered the incantation and the fire flickered to life. He took a swig of whisky and offered it to Regulus, who did likewise, coughing.

“Missed whisky.” Regulus commented as he handed the bottle back to Sirius. Sirius gave a bark of laughter.

“When did you have time to miss whisky?”

Regulus frowned and cocked his head.

“Don’t know. Last week?”

“Well, that’s a good sign that you’re becoming yourself again, Reggie. What’s a Black without a love of alcohol?”

His brother hummed and Sirius handed the bottle back to his brother who took another gulp.

“Can… Can I ask?” His voice shook and Sirius took the bottle back. He was going to need it.

“About what?”

“Mother?”

“Died five years after I was sent to prison. Guards let me know. They thought there was something hilarious about me being left this house.”

Regulus sniffed.

“Bellatrix?”

“Captured and put into Azkaban not long after they got me.”

“Narcissa?”

“Uh… you remember she married Malfoy, right? Were you around for her pregnancy? Ok, well, she’s got a baby boy. Same year as Harry.”

Regulus nodded, thoughtful.

“Evan?”

“Rosier? Dead.”

“Barty?”

“Did you know about him? That he was a Death Eater?”

Regulus went silent. Sirius sighed.

“Look, I know he was a good friend of yours at school.”

“New brother.” Regulus said softly. “I… I wanted a brother that mother would approve of. You had James.”

“Did you know?” Sirius asked again, his blood running cold. He hadn’t thought about it but the two had been close. Barty had been a years younger than Reg and practically worshipped the ground beneath his feet. Slytherin cronyism, not that the Crouch family needed it, but they were Slytherins all the way. Bartemius Senior just sucked it up to the crowds and the ministry.

“I brought… Yes. I brought him into the fold.” Regulus’ voice was wobbling now.

“Merlin. Oh Reg!”

“Please tell me he’s okay.”

Regulus had been seventeen when he died and he sounded it. He’d been just a kid. Just like Barty when they dragged him into a cell. Sirius remembered the boy screaming for his mother until he went silent. He remembered thinking if Regulus had been caught before his mysterious death, that’s what he’d have been like. And when Barty had died, Sirius had wondered if Regulus would have lasted that long.

“I’m so sorry.” Sirius said, moving to wrap Regulus in a hug as his brother collapsed in on himself. A sudden ringing filled the air and Sirius just had time to cast a quick shielding charm as glass smashed around them. Regulus was crying openly and Sirius shifted his brother to rest against his shoulder.

“’S my fault.” Regulus whispered as Sirius wrapped his arm around his brother and used the other to wave his wand and restore the room.

“No, you aren’t responsible for others, Reg.” He whispered softly as he held his brother as he fell apart and they tried to put each other back together.