#nuru was just joking around

[that-one-raccoon]

vat7k shenanigans

[antiquepearlss]

Something that’s really cool about the Varian And The Seven Kingdoms Mini-Series that plays in my head occasionally, is how the writers treat Varian’s villain arc.

It’s something he keeps hidden. Because while yes, his past is something he’s made peace with, and is even something he can joke about with his friends. But it’s one thing to joke about something with your friends who see you as an equal, to joke about it with people who were there and affected.

But it’s almost impossible to bring up around people you’re supposed to be leading, around people who you recently met. He’s trying to earn the trust of Yong, Nuru, and Hugo. He needs to earn their respect so they trust him to lead them through the trials, not to mention the fact that Nuru and Yong are both children.

So instead of Varian ever mentioning his past- a fabled man named “The Alchemist” is brought up. Yong hears about him at the market, and asks about him at the camp fire, where Nuru regales him with the tale of The Alchemist who tried to take over Corona- the ruthless scientist who took the queen hostage, experimented on animals, and tried to kill the princess. As she goes on, she gives Yong a story that is clearly filled with exaggerations and lies, scaring him. This only furthers Varian’s desire to keep quiet about everything. Throughout the series The Alchemist is brought up again, always in a negative light. Varian always shuts down any conversation about the mythical being.

And Hugo gets suspicious.

On their way to Corona, the episode before the two-part finale, they’re walking through the woods and find Varian’s old wanted poster, and he confesses to everything.

Nuru and Yong are understandably upset and set up their tents elsewhere- having no desire to be around the person who lied to them all year, even if they understand his side of the story. It’s still a hurtful betrayal to learn that someone isn’t who you thought they were…

But Hugo stays. Hugo put it together long ago, and even if he didn’t, he knows that sometimes a part of yourself is best kept hidden- or a part of yourself shouldn’t be revealed until you’re ready. He consoles Varian, confirms he still trusts him, and assures him that Nuru and Yong will eventually forgive him too. Varian is incredibly moved by the support and affection.

The two even almost share a kiss, before they notice a blue lantern float towards them. Like one of Rapunzel’s birthday lanterns- but blue and being powered by chemical vials, with The Brotherhood’s emblem stamped on. (The fact that Rapunzel sent birthday lanterns for Varian to lead him back home from his journey made me tear up a little.)

Idk I just thought that was a really sweet way the writers handled that storyline and I love the special moment between Varian and Hugo that foreshadows the finale…

[pansy-picnics]

A vat7k related question.

What do you think is Hugo's gender identity? Cus I want to hear what you think Hugo's gender is and the story behind it.

EHEHEHE personally i think she’s genderfluid and uses he/she/they pronouns…….I think he was kind of an uncracked egg up until the trials though. like, he’s been in survival mode for so long that he’s never had the time or luxury to really think about himself or his identity….i think he’s had a lot of different disguises over his career though, and those personas are either male or female depending on what the situation calls for so he’s not a stranger to dressing femininely either.

but yeah…i think for a long time hugo just identified as male by default cuz like…what else would he be LOL. if he had any doubts at all they weren’t significantly hindering him or anything so he just buried them with all the other of the emotions he doesn’t want to feel. but like the closet is made of GLASS and this becomes especially obvious when she teams up with 3 other teenagers who are also transgender so sometimes she’ll just Say Shit and they all turn around and look at her like “…….🤨”

i have this very vivid scene in my head where varian comes out to the gang as trans and hes clearly really uneasy abt it. and hugo doesn’t know what to say so he just tries to relate by saying the first thing that comes to mind and goes “oh yeah i get it i mean. sometimes i wish i was a girl but like not all the time yk” and nuru and varian both just stop and stare at him

hugo, getting nervous: …Sorry that’s probably not the same thing forget i said anything

nuru: No i think we should talk about this?

anyways yeah….other than her traveling party giving her some weird looks nothing actually really came of these conversations bc hugo would refuse to think about herself even if you put a gun to her head

fast forward to post-trials though, and hugo’s been living in the castle with varian for about six months…it was REALLY messy for both of them while she was adjusting, but at this point shes finally started to let her guard down a little, and all of a sudden she has SO much free time and she has no idea what to do with any of it. she’s stealing collecting things, tinkering with all kinds of useless little gadgets, rapunzel is teaching her tons of little arts and crafts projects. overall shes pretty content despite everything. So anyways then the gender crisis hits them like a fucking freight train

honestly i’m like half joking when i say i think it started bc they just kept forgetting to cut their hair. like one day they looked in the mirror and they’re like “wow my hairs getting so long i kinda look like a girl lol. Wait”

AND AS FUNNY AS IT IS ITS SO. WILDLY UNFAMILIAR TO THEM. like all of a sudden theyre SO insecure for as far as they can tell, NO reason and it drives them CRAZY. i dont even think that hugo dislikes their masculine features after coming out, i think they embrace them if anything but its just like…going from 0 to 100 so fast and suddenly being so hyper aware of themselves in a way that they NEVER were before…having to realize that they’re definitely Not cis. it’s fucking TERRIFYING!!!

not to mention it hits him all at once during a time when he’s still frankly really paranoid about him and varian’s relationship, and he’s kinda walking on eggshells bc deep down he’s convinced that var’s just gonna get tired of him eventually and kick him out. its like he’s just waiting for the final nail in the coffin despite the fact that there is literally no coffin.

All that being said i think it takes him a while to work up the courage to talk to varian about it. and he knows he won’t like. hate him for being trans or anything (I sure hope he wouldn’t, at least, seeing as he is literally also trans) but varian’s already done SO much for him and helped him through literally everything already….he doesn’t want to burden him any more than he already has. he also cant comprehend that someone can just Like him, like, as a person, so he’s convinced himself that varian must see something specific in him right now and he’s afraid that if he changes himself drastically in any way then whatever varian saw in him just. won’t be there anymore. If that makes sense

as for who he actually goes to first- honestly i think it’d have to be lance. at least in my head lance was the first person hugo really started to bond with aside from varian….he didn’t start letting his guard down with rapunzel until quite a while after that. also i think he’s worried that if he tells rapunzel she’d end up accidentally spilling something to varian (which is like. Valid bc she’s a horrible liar) he’d definitely write a letter to nuru, too, but nuru is also in another kingdom, and that message takes a while to get to her, so it’s more something they talk about after the fact

when he finally does get a letter back after dumping this revelation on her it’s just like

“dearest hugo. upon reading your letter i desperately wanted to tell you that i told you so, but i realize that would be in poor taste, seeing as you are clearly struggling right now. Moreover,-“ /j

regardless of who she tells first, they obviously all support her and encourage her to talk to varian as well…And ofc varian hypes her up to no end when she finally does. i wanna say it’s a sweet emotional scene but i feel like varian was also under the assumption that she figured out the gender thing like a year ago /j

hugo: ,,,,so like. i don’t think i’m a guy

varian: . yeah?

hugo:

hugo: TFYM “YEAH”?????!!!!???

varian: D. DID WE NOT ALREADY KNOW THIS?

hugo: ,???? NO???!!???!

jokes aside though as soon as hugo does decide he wants to explore his presentation more varian immediately consults rapunzel who gets WAY too excited about it and it kind of scares hugo a little bit. /j like Do you want to cut your hair? Dye it? Do you want new piercings? TATTOOS????

they eventually just settle on getting her a few new pieces to add to her wardrobe and that works out fine. varian sees his girlfriend in a dress and loses his mind etc etc. All is right in the world

[kharmii]

It's a joke about an AU where Skeptic is shorter than Trumpet. In canon, he'd be a whole head taller, even if Trumpet is over six foot, but he only looks slightly taller because he's always hunched over.

No, the clothes are too black ♡ It's over ♡

(IDGI Could it be that Trumpet is threatening to put on his Sevens Loud and send some people after Skep?)

Artist saying they don't like Geten looking like that, but Skeptic vehemently disagrees. He thinks Geten is cute.

I'm disappointed this didn't get finished. :-D

Power seal.

Skeptic wanting to share all the pocky sticks between his fingers.

Caption: Why haven't you noticed this before?

Skeptic: *humbly* Shall we go? Sure? (but then he shushes him in the hard to see panels middle).

Caption left: This is Chikahana (Closeflower). There is no love/point.

Bottom: I just want my son, who loves fingers, to kiss me with lots of licking and kissing.

(But then this second panel looks nonconsensual. Trumpet looks like he may have been set on while sleeping and now he isn't sure if he's in the grip of sleep paralysis while Skeptic is skulking over him like an enormous hairy vulture trying to stick his tongue and fingers in his mouth. Trumpet doesn't look like he enjoys where this is going).

The flower that Mr. Trumpet spits out: Violets.

Cause of illness: Because the people around you betrayed you..

The only cure: hating your friends.

First aid: kiss someone.

Treatment result: Complete cure after a few days.

If left untreated: part of the body must be removed after more than a dozen years. https://shindanmaker.com/740175

The artist ate too many sweets and wanted to do a prank drawing where Trumpet felt the same.

Art credit: ✧ Nuru ² General Staff ✧@Nulu23bow Twitter.

[pansy-picnics]

Not to derail the convo too much but i want to add my own input onto this….it sucks bc there are multiple VERY clear reasons why yong and nuru are both pushed aside, but i feel like everyone is afraid to say the quiet part out loud.

- Nuru is a black girl

- Yong is an asian kid

- nuru and yong werent really pitched as main characters to begin with. Maybe they wouldve been, had the pitch been fully realized, but we can only really make educated guesses based on the little information we have. The entire story was really built around varian and hugo, fundamentally- and yeah, obviously we only have the brief outline, but said outline doesn’t really mention nuru and yong like, at all. Doesnt mention any character arcs for them, any prominent relationships, any development theyd have over the series- not even their reactions to hugos betrayal or their involvement in the final fight. its all just about varian and hugo. We can only ever assume, at any given moment, that theyre just….There. And so thats how everyone writes them- as background characters to varigo.

i dont think its wrong to build a story around one character, i mean kay and anna really just did it for fun and i dont see any problem with that- but when people try to make it into a fully realized story, it doesnt really work because there are basically only two main characters and two guys who are just There. so instead of the VAT7K Fandom we just end up getting The Varigo Fandom. i honestly do think its why so many people come and get hyperfixated on it for a few months and then leave. There just isnt really any content to work with, because there are only 4 characters and people are only fully utilizing two of them.

-Did i mention theyre a black girl and an asian kid next to a yaoi couple featuring White Boy #3567488 and Kind-Of-Racially-Ambiguous-Probably-White Onceler Jr because the implications there are Not Great.

I joke, i love them all, i promise, but it is really something that bothers me a lot, especially since ive been here for so long and i dont really consider myself “in” the fandom enough to like, get super obsessed with any of the characters and make 1000 fics and drawings of them. If anything vat7k is kind of like the tts dlc to me. Im mentally ill about varigo and i love nuru and yong to bits and have SO MANY thoughts about them but they just usually stay in my head because i dont have the energy to expel them in any efficient way LOLOLOL. At the end of the day i consider myself more of a tts fan than anything else.

bc nuru and yong never really had any substance to begin with, people cant usually get super attached to them past a surface level, and it gets REALLY frustrating.

- When it comes to nuru, im like, the whitest girl imaginable so i dont want to talk out of turn here but i do want to mention it bc nobody else seems to be willing to- the way nuru is made into either the mature “mom friend” of the group or the “sassy best friend” is something that makes my blood BOIL, because they both feel SUPER stereotypical considering that shes a 16 year old black girl!!! i’ve talked to my friend, who is black, about it a lot (Id tag him here but hes Not in the fandom so i dont want to drag him into this LMAOAOAO) but weve discussed how black girls are “adultified” by mainstream society and quite literally robbed of their childhood and innocence. they’re treated as “mature for their age” and are expected to act as such…..It makes the way people portray nuru as the “mature one” rlly gross to me 😭. and luckily i dont see that “mom friend nuru” AS often anymore, but when people dont do that, i feel like they kinda just turn her into the “sassy voice of reason” which just feels like a whole black best friend trope to me…..😭 Guh. I think just the best anyone can do is actually make her a fully realized character!!! She feels so one note so often 😭

- And yong…I feel like he so often just gets made to be the Baby of the group and the comic relief (which is DEFINITELY because hes also a fat kid but thats a Wholeee other can of worms (eye twitching)) And like that can be fun sometimes, but also i feel like the main appeal about team radical, at least to ME, is that theyre all just stupid petty teenagers who are unparented and sent on a little coming of age quest and they all probably immediately start beefing with each other like its fucking lord of the flies. Yong is Twelve Years Old guys. Have you ever met a twelve year old? Theyre at that age where theyre like weirdly edgy and think theyre the Shit and that every adult around them is a fucking idiot. Yong has the potential to be soooo fucking funny past just being the cutesy little baby of the group and i feel like people just arent really willing to explore that. And like he can still be the more emotionally open one too! I feel like he starts out a lot more silly and more of that steven universe type hes usually portrayed as, but the longer he spends with the gang he just quickly becomes equally as deranged as them LOL. Id love to see a much more mischievous yong whos sweet but also a Very insecure 12 year old and kind of a shithead. I think it’s such an untapped market.

Idk i dont think that if you just Can’t get attached to nuru or yong that you’re like…Bad or like. racist or whatever Thats not what im saying at all!!! bc i do think that kay and anna for all their amazing work on the pitch did kind of contribute to the problem bc of the way nuru and yong are shown, or, well. not shown in said pitch lol. And i also think that everyone should consider the implications these characterizations have and like…Try and challenge themselves to branch out a little more!! and i also feel like a lot of people who ARE nuru and yong fans already arent very loud in the fandom, cuz like, with how varigo centric the community is i think its just assumed by default that nobody cares….and if thats you i want to encourage you to please PLEASE speak up and make more content about them bc people DO care!!!! it is a niche that so many people are willing to invest in!!! Especially me!!! Please please please please im on my knees plea

Guys I NEED to rant about my thoughts on Nuru because i love her <3 ramblings ahead

Like I feel like in almost every fic i read, she's just like, a side character that's there to make whitty remarks to Hugo and be the levelheaded one. If she has an insecurity or problem it's usually pretty surface level and solved quickly, or only mentioned once or twice. I think there are SO many aspects of her character that are so cool.

Okay first, I think we sometimes forget that she's a nerd just like the rest of the gang. Yes, on the outside she's definetly the most 'normal' one, but I think we should concider the fact that she's the only girl in the group, and she's literal royalty. She was raised with a completely different set of standards than the other three. I don’t think I've really ever seen anyone cover that. I feel like she would get called "mature for her age" when she's only 15/16, and almost always gets critisism when she talks back with her own ideas (like her concerns about the meteor shows for example). I feel like out on her journey, she would finally get the freedom to just be herself, and be a kid and be able to rant on about her intrests with the rest of the group. It could be a struggle at first, but it would be awesome to see her getting more comfortable with the group the longer they spend together! Nerds encouraging nerdy rants lol

Since she is a kingdom figurehead, you could also argue that she always has a lot on her hands (especially since she's very proactive when it comes to science and solving problems). This could bring up a need to be productive, or always feeling like she needs to make the right decision, even for the littlest things.

I also feel like a lot of the time she's potrayed as the "right" one, who is 100% right when it comes to stuff like arguing with Hugo. Since they're opposites when it comes to class, they often are compared through that lense. I think it's cool just having Nuru tell Hugo off for judging a book by its cover, but I feel like they have a lot more in common than they realize. I think it would be interesting to see Nuru judging a book by its cover too. Maybe not to the degree that Hugo does, but I feel like calling out both their judging would not only call out character flaws, but it also enforces that even though they hate eachother and would never want to be like the other, they have a lot of the same flaws.

Also, being sheltered in a palace her whole life, I think she might think kind of black and white sometimes, and while she knows when people are just being mean as an act, she might struggle when it comes to people like reformed criminals.

Maybe she's able to be meaner to Hugo because she justifies it by telling herself he's criminal, and therefore bad, possibly glossing over the reasons he might be like that (maybe it crosses her mind, but she tells herself it's not a good enough reason, because stealing is still stealing, and he literally steals EVERYTHING. Even little trinkets and stuff he definitely doesn't need!). When they find out about Varian's criminal history, maybe she reexamines her views on morality and how she used to see people, because by her standards, Varian is a 'bad guy' who's caused harm to SO many people, but he's also the kind, caring, helpful friend that she's been traveling with who would never willingly hurt anyone.

Moving on to Amber x Nuru, I honestly never find myself liking the ship because Amber isn't developed enough which is fine. I don't think every character has to be a magnificent work of art. Side characters are side characters, but their romance is usually written like: "wow that girl is cute! I have a crush now!" Which is cool, but then that's about as far as it gets, then timeskip! Or offscreen they're a couple now. I know it's a side couple so it won't have as much devlopment as something like Varigo, but I never really see their dynamic play out in different situations. Like I don't know how to explain it, but it feels like they solely exist to be a couple? Amber sometimes just feels like an extention of Nuru, and their relationship feels surface level a lot of the time.

I feel like too often she's just watered down to the nice, smart, grounded friend, and I don't know I just think there’s so much more to explore with her. She’s not just some side character. She's literally part of the main cast! Even in fanart I feel like she doesn't really get a lot of stuff besides funny art and just like, pictures meant to look pretty. Unlike something you get a lot with characters like Varian or Hugo.

And honestly I get it. Some characters you just don't take an intrest in. I know I find Varian, Hugo, and Nuru more relatable than I find Yong, but I feel like part of that is developing their characters rather than just seeing them on a surface level. Ofc there are exceptions and there are some stories that dive deeper into Nuru's character out there! I just happen to see this A LOT.

Wow i said "surface level" a lot didn't I 😭😭

Anyway thank you for reading my rant i wanna know what you guys think!!

[ashdoesfandomarchieved]

Varigo ask thing:

Adoration

ao3

He finds Varian after.

Nuru is taking care of the royal family-turns out her own royal linage is good for something-with Yong, smoothing things over and promising to pay for reparations. Hugo thinks they should just take off and call it a day, but Yong gives him a disappointed look that has him sighing and saying, “Alright, I’ll let Varian know we’re staying the night.”

Except then Varian is nowhere to be found.

Whatever, Hugo wasn’t a master criminal for nothing. He looks around the plaza for a while, not allowing himself to feel guilty for the still-smoldering buildings, before he spots a familiar figure atop the still intact mill. With a sigh, Hugo looks around to make sure no one’s watching before hefting himself up the side the building. Varian startles when he settles beside him.

“Nice job with the fire chipmunks,” Hugo says, shifting about to get comfortable on the hardwood roof.

Varian rolls his eyes. Hard. “They were harpies,” he corrects, dropping his chin back onto his knees. “Where’s Nuru?”

“Your girlfriend is making nice with the local royalty.” Hugo smirks at Varian’s glare. “Oh, sorry, forgot you were the girlfr-”

“Are you here for a reason or just to antagonize me?” Varian groans, dropping his forehead onto his knees.

“Pretty much just to antagonize you,” Hugo confirms. “And, I guess…” he trails off.

Varian tilts his head up. Hugo can practically all but see his ears swiveling like a fox’s in curiosity.

“...to thank you,” Hugo finally finishes, realizing- to his surprise- that it’s true. “You had my back out there today. Even if it was against fire chipmunks.” He grins.

Varian rolls his eyes again, but this time it looks more fond than anything. “Recycling jokes? Get something original.”

“Whatever.” Hugo finally finds a comfortable position on the roof. He settles back, arms folded underneath his head. The sky is dimming, but the lights from the city square make it almost impossible to see the stars above. What a ripoff, Hugo thinks. Literally, what is the point of sitting dangerously high on an unstable roof with a pretty boy if you can’t even see the stars.

...Wait what-

“What a view,” Varian says, apparently on a similar train of thought. He squints at the dark blue sky. “I think there’s like. Four stars.”

“Four stars,” Hugo repeats. “Make a wish.”

“That’s for the first star.”

“Okay, so don’t make a wish.”

“Fuck you, I’m making the wish.” Varian lets his legs drop off the edge of the roof. Hugo holds his hand out, just in case the clumsy alchemist unbalances himself from the sudden action. He doesn’t, opting to glare at Hugo’s interference.

“What’d ya wish for,” Hugo asks, drawing back.

“None of your business.”

“Was it to become smarter than me? You can admit it.”

“Hugo-” Varian begins with a sigh.

“No, no not smarter, hotter, that’s your play.” Hugo shoots him some finger guns. “I like your style, Stripes.”

“Yes, clearly I wished to become hotter than you, that’s all I crave in life.” Varian blows a lock of hair out of his face. He doesn’t look very annoyed though. Mostly amused, which is new. And tired. Varian has looked very tired all day, but there’s a heaviness right now hiding beneath the banter that hadn’t been there before. Hugo doesn’t know what to make of it.

“So what did you wish for?” Varian asks, breaking Hugo out of his thoughts.

Hugo doesn’t even blink. “Your undying adoration.”

“Shit, I guess these wishes don’t work then.” Varian nudges Hugo with his shoulder hard enough to push the taller boy off the roof. Hugo gives him a glare after righting himself that spurs a smug smile out of Varian.

“Yeah, well, you already adored me before I made the wish,” Hugo says. “Everyone does.”

“Including Nuru?”

“Especially Nuru, she just doesn’t know it yet.”

Varian snorts, shaking his head. “Let me know when she figures that one out.”

“Will do, goggles.” Hugo gives him a two-fingered salute. “Well, now that we’ve officially become besties and shared our innermost wishes, I’m gonna go grab some dinner. You should come,” he adds, shifting into a crouch so that he can swing off the edge of the roof.

“Yeah, maybe,” Varian says noncommittally. “I might stay here for a while longer.”

Hugo shrugs. “Suit yourself.” He drops off the edge of the roof, landing on the ground with a grunt. “Watch out for fire chipmunks, Goggles.”

“Watch out for Nuru, Blondie,” Varian calls back, laugh in his voice.

Grinning, Hugo sets out for the plaza, following the sound of Yong’s laughter. For the first time in a long while, his heart doesn’t feel so heavy.

[fletchphoenix]

Slipping Through My Fingers

Short one shot but just announcing I’m gonna be back as soon as i can to keep on writing. Enjoy this while I’m working :)) <3

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

Scarlet seeped through his sleeve, a pale hand shifting to what was left of his arm as it bloomed like a flower and spread its little branches over the remnants of his sleeve. Pulling his remaining hand away from the stump, he took a glance at his palm and felt himself about to throw up at the sight of it. Heh, it was funny, really. Varian would’ve fainted by now if he even saw a tiniest bit of blood. 

How he wished to see the other again.

Hugo backed away, his back pressing against the rough bark of an oak tree as he heard the distant cries of Varian, Nuru and Yong. He’d run away from them - it would cause them less pain for him to die as he lived. Alone. A prolonged burst of pain caused his knees to buckle from under him as he slid to the floor, landing in some moss as the mud stained his trousers. His mind began to wonder as he felt his eyes begin to lose focus on the forest in front of him.

Would they miss him? He knew his boyfriend would at least, the younger always fussing over him and making him feel absolutely loved. Scratch that - they would all probably miss him. He hoped they’d be able to make it through the trials without him. That his inevitable demise wouldn’t hold them back too much from completing their goals. He guessed they’d probably do it sooner without him. All he really did was hold them back. That was what he was here for, after all. To stop them from entering the eternal library. He can’t really remember when he gave up on that endgame - probably when he fell in love with Varian. “I guess I don’t need to betray them anymore.” he thought as crimson stained the grass below him, the stump dripping down onto it.

“-go! Hug-OH MY GOD!” A teal streak appeared from behind a bush and before he knew it, a very upset and concerned Varian crouched beside him, Nuru and Yong in tow. A sharp intake of breath gave away his pain as he leaned his head back against the bark and shut his eyes. Why now? He’d only just accepted his eventual death and now Varian had to come and make him feel guilty. “Hugh-oh god, okay. We’ll get you out of this, okay? Can you speak to me?” “Hey goggles.” he muttered, a groan of pain escaping as Nuru pushed him to lay down, his hair sprawling out into the grass and the stump that was once his left arm being elevated. Her hands moved expertly as she gathered up some material from her bag and pressed it against the end of his...stump. “You alright there? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Hugo weakly chuckled as Varian’s notably ungloved hands pushed his hair out of his face gently and cupped his cheeks.

“You’re literally bleeding out, can we please leave the jokes?” Varian chuckled, though Hugo could see the tears welling in his eyes. He desperately wanted to brush those tears away and kiss them better, however his arm - or lack there of - was being tended to by Nuru, with the other being held by Yong who squeezed as though his life depended on it. 

“You love it really.” he muttered as he winced as Nuru wrapped bandages around his arm and began to apply a splint to his arm. “Y’know you have beautiful eyes, right? I love them so much. They look like the ocean. I should take you to the beach someday. I bet Yong would love it too.” His voice trailed off, his eyes beginning to slip shut as Varian desperately tried to keep him awake. The aforementioned boy placed a gentle kiss to his lips, Hugo barely conscious enough to register the action. 

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

Pain jolted through his arm as the world slowly began to come back into view. Wait, he wasn’t dead? A groan of protest left his lips as he pushed himself to sit up, disturbing his boyfriend sleeping in the chair beside him. Varian’s lips curled up into a smile as he leant across and gently pushed his boyfriend back to lie in bed, him taking a seat on his lap. “Hey-no. You need to stay laid back, darling. You can’t get up just yet.” he hushed him softly, placing a kiss to his lips once again as he trailed a hand down his chest. “You had me so worried, sweetheart.” He whispered against his lips, “why didn’t you stay with us?”

“This I can get used to..” Hugo chuckled, a smirk playing on his lips as he moved his hand to his boyfriend’s waist as he decided to neglect his boyfriend’s question. “You really are a sight for sore eyes, huh..? And you were so worried you slept beside me the whole time I’m guessing.” 

“We took it in shifts, but yes. Mostly me.” Varian responded as he continued to place fleeting kisses over his face, his hands cupping his cheeks as he held his boyfriend in place. Hugo let himself slide back into the bed further, letting his boyfriend continue with his onslaught of kisses. “We should tell Yong and Nuru you’re awake-”

“Nah. I want a cuddle, my darling.” Hugo responded, Varian obliging and laying beside him in bed as they cuddled up and shut his eyes, the other boy curled up against his chest as they both drifted into a deep deep sleep.

[humangeode]

I’ve developed a full headcannon for Hugo’s backstory from a hodgepodge of things we’ve come up with on the Varian and the Seven Kingdoms Discord server. (Buckle up, cause it’s a long one):

Hugo was an only child.

Child labor was definitely a thing in the Iron Kingdom. When Hugo was little, up until the time he was abandoned, he was sent to work to make money for the family.

The place he worked had a sort of assembly-line manufacturing system. Hugo’s first experiences with invention were collecting parts and tools he’d snatch from the factory and tinkering with them at home. It is out of this collection of parts that he would later build Olivia/Cheese.

His parents realized he needed glasses when his eyesight became such a problem that he got hurt at work. (Probably broke a bone). Once Hugo started needing glasses, they decided that the cost of keeping him was not worth the little money he brought home, so they got rid of him.

Hugo is sold by his parents to a snobby rich couple couldn’t conceive and want to keep up a false appearance of charitability. Of course, it’s all for image and, in reality, they treat him like crap, constantly putting him down because of his poor background.

Eventually he runs away, and he tries to go home, only to find that his parents have left. They had set their minds on moving up in society and Hugo was “bogging them down.”

After that, Hugo is on the streets for a few years, fending for himself. He builds Olivia so that he’ll have a friend that won’t leave him. During this time, he learns to steel and gets into plenty of trouble.

Now we tie into Miles’s art. At some point, he nearly dies after getting beat up by some other gang. This is when Donella finds him and takes him in, becoming his mentor.

Now we get into how this all comes up again with the 7k gang:

When they stop in the Iron Kingdom, they get this warm welcome by the high class because they’re traveling with Princess Nuru, and these people are always looking for a wealthy person to make connections with. They end up having to attend some event in order to ask around for info on the location of the next trial.

At this banquet, high class people of the Iron kingdom are so greedy, they try to offer Varian their investment in his quest. When Varian explains he’s not making any money at the end, they’re like, “what? You unlock infinite knowledge and you’re not gonna capitalize on that?” Varian’s like, “we don’t own the library. It’s Dimanitus’s.” And they would say, “yeah but, LOOPHOLE, you build and therefore own the only ENTRANCE to the library and can charge people to go through it.” And Varian would have to bring the hammer down like, “No. we’re not making knowledge exclusive, a-holes.”

All of them loathe the stuffy, stuck-up atmosphere, but Hugo is taking is the worst. He’s all jumpy and looking over his shoulder constantly. He spots his old foster parents and is like,” we gotta leave right now!” The rest of the gang is confused like “ what’s up with Hugo?”

Inevitably, they run into the parents and they start talking all snarky and condescendingly to Hugo about how they “gave him everything” and he ran away. Hugo is just dead silent but growling under his breath. He’s clenching his campaign glass so hard it nearly shatters. Varian, Nuru, and Yong are also getting more and more pissed. Even angrier than Hugo.

They’ve finally had enough and start standing up for Hugo, telling them how Hugo deserves better than them anyways and “good for him for running away from you idiots!” A fight gets started. The 7k gang trash the place and ditch the rich snobs. Hugo is pretty amazed that they stood up for him like that. Anyways, they end up getting their info on the next trial from some of the poorer people, who are way more helpful. The wealthy ones were dumb as stumps.

At some point along their journey, they purely by chance run into his birth parents too. When Hugo sees them, he becomes furious and confronts them alone, but they seem to feel no remorse.

They still believe they made the right choice and rub it in Hugo’s face (very casually) that they really were better off without him. Years after abandoning Hugo, when they were finally higher up in society (a large part thanks to the money they made from selling Hugo) they started having kids again (ones that they didn’t sell, and kept, unlike Hugo). This obviously adds salt to the wound.

Hugo can’t believe they don’t even feel bad in the slightest, so he runs off extremely upset, tearing up a bit, but trying to hide it. He confronted them in his own, so Varian and the gang don’t know what’s wrong with him when he suddenly starts acting differently. Varian is sure something is wrong when he gives Hugo the perfect opportunity to crack a joke at his expense and Hugo doesn’t take it.

So the gang finally sends Varian to try to figure out what’s up (because Hugo is more likely to open up to him.) When Varian asks, it’s not long before Hugo breaks down and tells him everything.

As soon as he hears it, Varian is absolutely livid. He marches back to Hugo’s parents to go absolutely ape-shit on them.

He marches back out and Hugo is shocked but doesn’t say anything. Varian finally calms down and realizes that in his rage, he forgot to comfort Hugo and make sure he was ok. He worries that going after his parents was the wrong move, so he goes to Hugo and apologizes, explaining that he did it because he was just so mad for what they did to Hugo. Hugo says that he’s not upset at Varian at all and is just shocked that Varian cares so much.

That night, Hugo finally tells the whole group what had been going on with him. Nuru insists that he absolutely deserved better that what he got out of childhood and is genuinely very upset that Hugo’s parents seemed to suffer no consequences for their actions. She absolutely hates injustice. Yong is constantly telling Hugo how awesome he his and how his parents are so dumb for thinking they’re better off without him. They spend the rest of the night trying to comfort him and let him know that he’s a valued member of their group.

Throughout all this (including the part where they meet his foster parents) Hugo is constantly shocked that the 7k group appear to be more angry for him than he is angry for himself. They accept him in a way Donella told him no one ever would.

All of this together is largely what gets Hugo to finally decide to stay with them and betray Donella when they run into her later in the Iron Kingdom.

———

Edit:

By the way y’all, I forgot to mention the idea of the rich couple foster parents originated from @asingleaceinthedeck

[hebescus]

some things stay forever somehow

eyyy it’s the 4th day!

this was actually a scrap, i sent the rough version of it in the 7K discord server and they liked it??? so i just decided to fuck it, i’m taking this seriously so here we are. Enjoy this unecessarily oddly detailed lil piece.

@alistairwrites here’s my lil piece i hope you enjoy it!

—

The wind blew through his hair, the warm ambience and the crackling fire sound relaxing him as he absentmindedly leaned to his cousin’s side. Varian always loved campfires, there’s something oddly familiar about their warmth, it felt like he just belonged there, in front of the crackling fire. Campfires always gave him this odd feeling of longing, yearning, but fulfilled at the same time. And he always craves that feeling.

That’s why he was really excited when Eugene–his cousin–asked him to join a small camping event together. He knew nobody but Eugene and Rapunzel–his girlfriend. It was a college event after all, and he was still in senior high school. Plus, socializing wasn’t the reason why he came, so he didn’t bring himself to care.

So far, the first night was nice. Eugene and Rapunzel introduced him to a few of their friends and he actually really liked them. He cried laughing by Lance’s story, he had a great time discussing things with Cassandra’s critical and smart opinions, and more. Well, they were obviously different from Nuru or Yong who were his age but he had a great time with them.

“You seemed really intrigued with campfires, kid. Care to share something?” He snapped out of his daydream to find Lance sat on the ground next to him, he didn’t even realize Eugene left a minute ago. He smiled, warmth crept on his body thinking about all the feelings he felt.

“I don’t know…it just felt like I belonged here. I always want to come back, I feel satisfied to be here. But at the same time I…I long for something, there’s like something’s missing but I don’t- ah, I don’t know Lance,” he rambled. Lance gave him a nod as if a sign that he wanted Varian to continue. “I love the warmth, the noises, the ambience…I never felt better when I’m here, It’s confusing, really, I don’t even know why,”

“Hmmm, I see,” Lance answered. His eyes fixated on the burning woods a thinking expression. “I know this might be craaazy for you, but someone from my orphanage once said that if you feel some kind of familiar, longing, addicted feelings about certain something or situations, that means you have a special experience with them in your past life,”

“That sounds like a kids bedtime story if you ask me,” Varian shrugged but he immediately felt bad for being a little bit ignorant, so he corrected his words, “I mean, that’s real sweet, but-”

“Well, I’m not finished yet! They even said that you met someone that makes you feel more connected to the situation, and the longing feeling just gone, that means they were connected to that situation in the past and was important to you,” he continued. “They even called it soulmate, if you even believe in one,” Lance raised his eyebrow, a confusing look between agree or disagree with that statement. And Varian…well, he just cringed. Hard.

“Yep, I don’t like how that sounds,” Varian laughed. “But that’s just my personal opinion, I don’t really believe in that kinda stuff,” Lance hadn’t given him any clue whether he actually agreed with that statement or not, after all.

“Ah, it’s fine, really. A science based guy like you must like something logical, right?” Varian nodded and gave him a small smile before he continued. “I mean, that’s just a little thing you gotta plant in your head because who knows? Maybe it’s real, we just haven’t found out just yet,” he said with an unreadable soft expression. Eugene was not wrong when he said Lance was their dad friend. After that, someone called Lance for help and then he was alone again with his thoughts and the campfire.

“Shit- hey!” Varian’s silence was distubed by a squeal from behind him. He looked back and saw a man being strangled by a wild raccoon who looked like he was trying to steal a fish kabob from the man’s hand. He couldn’t see them clearly–thanks to the night lighting–but he could make out what’s going on. “Ey! Get off me!”

“Uh hey! You…alright?” Varian wasn’t really into the idea of talking to people that’s not introduced by Eugene or Rapunzel, but the man seemed like he needed a little help.

“Can’t you see?! This little- ugh, creature trying to steal my last kabob!” He answered while trying to balance his food and fight the raccoon off. Varian chuckled at that sight, reconsidered his childhood dream of wanting a pet raccoon.

“I think you should just give it to him,” Varian laughed.

“Are you crazy?! This is my las-” Varian cut him off by holding up a plate full of kabobs that Rapunzel gave him earlier.

“Not a big fan of fishies so…you want some?” The man grinned, quickly dropped his kabob to the ground and let the raccoon eat it as he practically ran towards the other boy.

“Oh God, yes, this is like- very good, thank you-” the man said as he snatched the plate out of Varian’s hand, immediately chewing the vegetables and sat next to the blue eyed boy.

Varian took a proper look at him as he ate. He didn’t look much older than him, he had a strong jawline and sharp looks on his face, circular glasses hung on his nose, blond hair neatly tied above his undercut, and…he looked kinda attractive for some reason? Or maybe he just liked the way that faded green sports jacket clung on his white printed tee and ripped blue jeans that complimented his long legs- and why the hell you care so much about that, Varian?

“Listen, I know I’m hot, but staring at people who’re eating is rude,” the man said with furrowed eyebrows, still chewing his food. Varian would think it’s kinda cute if he didn’t just call him rude.

“Is it though? I’m sorry then, I never saw anyone being attacked by a raccoon for a freaking kabob before,” he shrugged playfully. The older just laughed, Varian nearly thought he got a special connection with kabobs because God damn, he inhaled it.

“Well, I’ve never seen you before, hairstripe. Are you new or something?” The man asked, already on his last skewer. Varian was confused by the nickname for a bit before he realized that it’s probably from the blue streak. He dyed it two years ago and still refused to change it.

“No serious business, I just love camping- Well, actually, I’m just joining my cousin, Eugene. You know him?” he shrugged, but then he realized he haven’t introduce hims-

“Yes, of course. That means you’re…uh, what is it- ah! yes, Varitas?”

“Actually, it’s Varian,” Varian tried to not roll his eyes and let out a chuckle instead. 

“Ohh, yeah, Varian- I’m sorry. Flynn talked about you a bunch of times,”

“Flynn?”

“Yeah, that’s…kind of an inside joke nickname we gave him,” he answered, placing the empty plate on the ground. “Well, nice to meet you, freckles. I’m Hugo, your cousin’s partner in crime," 

—

The first night went very well. They kept talking to each other until it was late. Late enough that everyone who’s playing games with them at some point went back to their tents, someone even gave the leftover kabobs–luckily for Varian, it was chicken–before she headed off to her tent. The raccoon came back, Hugo reluctantly shared some vegetables with them while Varian laughed and randomly decided to name them Ruddiger, which ironically is Varian’s middle name. 

That night, Varian learned that Hugo was only a year older than him. He was a freshman, the youngest person in Eugene’s circle–they knew each other from being in the same basketball club. He also learned that Hugo majored in science, just like he wanted to be. He loved camping for the campfires just like Varian. Although, he learned much more about the older from his observation. He loves calling people with nicknames, he had this unique trait such as naming most of his stuff, he would snuggle on his jacket when the wind got chilly, he would scrunch his nose when he disagreed about something, and he was really smart. He didn’t know why he paid that much attention to the little details, but for now, all he can say is that he was indeed interested in this guy.

—

The second night rushed in. They were exhausted from all of the fun activities they did in the day with some friends. They went swimming, played a bunch of sports, they even had a little acoustic session at sunset. But at the end of the day, they would sit there in front of the campfire, Varian with his comfortable beanie and Hugo with his warm jacket.

"Today was really fun, don’t you think?” Varian asked softly. His thought ran around the events that happened that day. It gave his stomach some funny feelings. It started when Hugo gave him his shirt after swimming–no one told Varian to bring any backup clothes. He swore he saw a pink tint on his cheeks and a really soft little smile on his lips before a friend turned his attention away from the younger. Then their hand would brush against each other while trekking, occasionally interlocked them together on a steep path. He also still remembers when Hugo hugged his head and yelled at his friend for accidentally hitting Varian’s head with a volleyball. He somehow couldn’t get enough of the feeling of his fingers on his hair.

And then the little acoustic session. Oh God, he didn’t know what to feel about that. He was challenged by Cass to sing because she knew he didn’t like to sing in public. He didn’t care that much at first, but once the first line came out of his lips, Varian just lost his ability to speak. Who knew that the kabob guy he met last night had an extremely angelic voice. It was a really romantic song and the fact that Hugo kept staring at him the whole time just made his heart stop. He is in fact no head over heels for the guy he just met last night, right? 

“Yeah it is. I don’t feel like going home tomorrow,” he frowned. “I just want to be here…in the middle of whatever forest is this, by this campfire and the warmth- just doing nothing and…talking to-you. It’s nice to have a campfire company like you, hairstripe,”

Varian’s stomach went weird again and his freckled cheeks went slightly pink. But immediately fought it off with a little ‘thank you’ and changed the topic and had a whole new, endless conversation again.

One thing that he realized is that the more they talked, the warmer he got. He could feel this odd yet familiar kind of comfort and connection that somehow he only got when Hugo was around and he only knew him for one day. 

It was nearly three in the morning when one of Hugo’s friend came out of his tent, scolding them for being out so late and just initiated to extinguish the fire- for some unknown grumpy reason. 

But that didn’t stop them from talking about a random meme on Varian’s phone that got them laughing a little too loudly. Varian then started to ramble about this funny childhood story that was connected to the meme, when a rush of cold wind made his body shivers. He tried to fight it off by keeping on talking, but Hugo noticed that.

“You cold, hummingbird?” Hugo asked, starting to take off his jacket.

“A little, but it’s fine,” however, his body couldn’t lie as he tugges his short sleeves begging for some warmth.

“And you think I would believe that?” The older chuckled, shoved  his jacket to the other’s chest.

“How about you-” he was cut by Hugo’s facepalm as he T posed and showed every side of his hoodie. 

“I have layers, bean,” the blond said smugly while his hand slightly fixed the younger’s beanie. Varian smiled and put the jacket on. It was the second clothing that Hugo borrowed him but this one is definitely better than the shirt. It smelled like…Hugo. He didn’t know how to describe it, but he enjoyed it,

Maybe a little too much.

—

He decided that he didn’t want to be away from that blond boy. It was only two days but he swore he really really liked him. Yes, he finally admitted it. The second that jacket was clung on his body, he knew all the feelings just crashed together. And he was scared, because right now everything was packed and they were all ready to go home. He stared at the older’s back who’s laughing with his friends and carrying supplies to a car. He really didn’t want him to go.

Varian tugged the green jacket closer to his body, trying to memorize every warmth before he gave it back. He took a deep breath and walked towards Hugo.

“Uh, Hugh,” he called nervously.

“Oh, hey there, hairstripe. Need help with something?”

“Umm, no, I just want to say thank you…for these past two days, I really, really enjoyed it. It’s been nice to know you,” he smiled softly as his fingers started to unzip the jacket and take off the jacket. “And I guess you left your-”

“No, please keep it,” Hugo cut him off, his hand gripped the left pocket of the jacket and halted the younger’s move. “Olivia looks good on you,” Oh, did he mention that his favorite jacket was named 'Olivia’? Because Varian thought it was adorable. 

He was about to thank him when the older stepped closer and pecked his lips softly, leaving him absolutely breathless and flustered.

“See you later, goggles,” Hugo smiled, walking away from Varian and approached his friends. He had so many thoughts but the last nickname was kind of confusing. He called him sweet cheeks, blue, hairstripe, freckles, shortstack, bean, hummingbird, but where did goggles come from? It was weirdly…familiar. It was the same weird feelings with the sudden connection he got with that boy. 

He stayed silent on the road. Thinking about that handsome prick who stole his heart just like that, thinking about his lips on his own and how it should be longer than just a single peck, thinking about their connections, his weird last nickname…his head just screamed 'Hugo, Hugo, Hugo’ and he loved it. He loved every single thought about him.

Once he got home, he quickly greeted his dad and changed his clothes. He was about to hang the jacket to the back of his door when a piece of paper fell from the left pocket.

'xxx-xxx-xxxx,

Would you mind for another talk, sweet cheeks?

Love, Hugh’

He smiled at the paper like he never smiled before then he jumped around his room and quickly grabbed his phone. One thing he realized when he was typing the number; the second he laid his eyes on Hugo, the longing feeling of the campfire just gone, replaced by a satisfied, fulfilled warmth and connection that made the campfire felt better and better when he was around.

Guess Lance’s little story wasn’t a bedtime fairytale anymore.

—

The air was cold, but the fire warmed their body as they leaned on each other’s side. Nuru and Yong were fast asleep in their tents, tired from the long day of journey plus the challenging trial.

“Hugh,” the younger called, intertwining his hand with Hugo’s, today’s event brought their feelings together and they could never be more grateful. “If you can keep a moment forever with you. What would it be?”

“Forever?”

“Yeah, forever,”

“It’s pretty simple actually,” the older answered with such sweetness in his voice. “It would be now,”

“Uh…what do you mean by 'now’?” Hugo laughed at his lover’s obliviousness.

“To be here with you…in the middle of whatever forest is this, by this campfire and its warmth- just doing nothing and…talking to-you. It’s really lucky of me to have a company like you, hairstripe,” he answered softly.

“That’s…what I want to be kept forever too, even if we have another life I want this kind of moment to stay,” he slightly cringed at his sudden sappiness but he was too in love to care. “I love you,” he whispered as he leaned in to kiss the older.

“I love you too, goggles”

[varibean]

Amalgam

this is a secret prompt exchange for the varigo discord server! i got the prompt Amalgam for the wonderful and talented @dr-chalk!!!! i hope yall enjoy (and here’s the fic on ao3 too *wink*)

Summary: After relying on Ulla’s notebook to help them through their journey, the gang find that the next kingdom has little to no notes on where the next trial takes place. Their only clue is a location that might have a lead on where to go next. However, after a royal mess up on Hugo’s part, they’re left up the creek without a paddle. Not only are tensions high, but emotions as well. One thing was certain though: Hugo and Varian did not mix well.

Varian and Hugo didn’t mix, that much was clear to see at first glance. Hugo was rough, so many edges and layers of grime applied through falsities and smarmy charm. Meanwhile Varian was more true, more honest with himself and with others, but that often led to him being volatile at the wrong times and too quick to action based on emotion. Needless to say, it wasn’t the best combination. 

_____

Hugo watched as Varian stormed into the campsite where the caravan and Prometheus were kept, the latter grazing at a few nearby apples and scraps that his owner had left behind. Needless to say, the young alchemist was furious. 

Behind him Yong trotted along with Nuru, both with dejected looks plastered over their faces. Even from a distance Hugo could hear Nuru trying to mumble comforting words to the small boy, a smile on her face despite the recent hardships. And lastly, heading up the rear, was Hugo himself. His face was blank, almost unreadable save for the smallest of frown lines forming beneath his softly twitching lips. 

No one was in a good mood and no one wanted to talk about it.

Yong went over to the fire pit and mumbled about getting the food ready for the night with Nuru which only resulted in a jerky nod from Varian before he headed into the makeshift lab tent. As each member went about their separate tasks, Hugo was left standing at the edge of the camp, arms crossed and the facade of normalcy fading. 

He knew he had to do something, had to make this all right. They had been so close to discovering the path to the next trial, but he’d been reckless and wanted to show off. Now they were down a crucial key to getting to the next trial and morale and it was all his fault. 

A sigh escaped him before he decided to move his feet. Yong and Nuru would probably be the easiest to apologize too; Nuru already didn’t like him before this but she was also smart enough to set bitter feelings aside and Yong was so happy-go-lucky that all it would take to earn back his favor was a brightly colored sparkler. They would be easy to win over. 

That’s exactly why Hugo walked past them and instead headed into the lab tent. The area was small and cramped with everything from books to test tubes to chemicals that had to be carefully repacked every time they wanted to move. Even though they’d set it up together, Hugo could feel the shift in the area after his most recent blunder. 

This was Varian’s space and he was intruding on the alchemist’s domain. 

The man in question was muttering to himself, flipping through books and slamming his fists down as he closed volumes that didn’t have the answers he wanted. Honestly he was quite terrifying like this. Hugo, despite his outward teasing, had a healthy mix of both fear and respect for Varian, seeing how the other was never one to back down. 

In the moment, the fear was predominant. 

As much as he would’ve loved to have stood there forever, watching the other work so nimbly even in the mists of anger instead of confronting him on the issue, he knew that he couldn’t do that. 

“Hey, uh, Varian. So about back there-” Hugo’s words were cut off before he could finish them. Suddenly Varian was striding over to him, face contorted in a particular anger that was more hurt and disappointment than malice. 

“Yes Hugo, let’s talk about ‘back there’. I would love nothing more to talk about ‘back there’ so lets do that shall we? What part of ‘back there’ do you want to talk about? Maybe the part where you fought me for ten minutes on which direction we should go in. Or maybe the part where you insisted on using your own chemicals to open a doorway and instead got everyone a nose full of stink bomb. Or maybe! Maybe it’s the part where you almost got all of us fucking killed by setting off a trap!” Varian was huffing by the last line, his breath leaving his body in shaking bursts that made Hugo’s own chest constrict. 

“Varian, listen-”

“No! I had my time to listen, now you’re going to listen to me. My mother’s journal can only lead us so far; whatever was in that cavern was going to take us to the next trial location inside the kingdom. Now we have no cavern, no lead, and almost lost our lives. Instead of finding the exact location we’re going to have to spend...I don’t even know! Days? Weeks! Searching this kingdom to find the trial chamber. All because you don’t trust anyone but yourself!” 

The words stung Hugo more than any reprimand Donella had ever given him; more than any punishment he’d ever gotten from the other goons in the gang. It was blistering, scalding. He’d never felt so bad about messing up because, until Varian, he’d never messed up. 

He never messed up because he’d never truly tried to help others. 

But with Varian that’s all he wanted to do. And he fucked that chance right up. 

“Can I please just-” Hugo started, but Varian was clearly determined to not let him say anything. 

“No, you can’t. You want to know what we got for all of this? For almost losing our lives?” Varian turned around and pulled out his satchel, removing a fist sized filthy crystal that was no prettier than a dirty rock. “We got this. And only because it fell on me!” 

Hugo stood there, trying not to let his shame show through. Yet again, he was downfalled by his hubris. It was just different, working together as a team. He’d never had to trust or rely on anyone else besides himself. Apparently, he wasn’t very good at trusting others. 

In front of him Varian slammed the crystal rock down in a compound that Hugo recognized as hydrofluoric acid. Hugo thought that the other would break the beaker or hurt himself with the force that he threw the crystal rock down and suddenly worry overtook his shame. 

“Hey, careful!” He reached out to check Varian’s hand, but the other batted him away. 

“That’s enough, Hugo.” Varian said. The sound of his voice, the disappointment and rage, sent a shiver down Hugo’s spine. But he wasn’t just going to stand there and take it. If the other wanted to ignore his attempts at an apology, that was fine by him. 

Without another word, Hugo turned on his heels and headed out the tent. 

“You know,” He started, turning his attention to Nuru and Yong, who were currently on the ground after trying to scamper back to their places, “You two do a piss poor job of eavesdropping.”  

_____

Five days went by without them speaking to each other. Five days of curt nods and stiffly eaten meals and as little contact as they could manage while still trying to figure out how to make it to the next trial. Hugo and Varian’s foul mood affected everyone; even Ruddiger was beginning to eat his apples with less enthusiasm. 

The group’s searches in the city for how to begin their trial proved to be utterly fruitless. Varian’s journal was no use, and they’d expended the only other key that they had. 

Overall, not the most fun few days. However, Yong and Nuru were becoming less concerned with the trial and more concerned for their two alchemists. 

“He’s not been sleeping a lot.” Yong said. 

“Varian never sleeps.” Came Nuru’s halfhearted reply, even though there was worry in the pit of her stomach as well. 

“But this is different. Usually he just stays up because he’s in his tent...or putting out a fire I started. Right now he’s just doing nothing.”

“Yeah.” Nuru sighed. She knew she couldn’t deny it. Things were getting bad and no one knew how to make them better again. “Hugo’s been pretty quite too. Which I thought was going to be a good thing but now believe it or not I’d give anything to hear him say one of his stupid jokes again. At least then that would mean things were normal.”

Both of them knew that it wouldn’t be that simple. At first they’d tried plots and schemes; fake notes left by the other, arranging meet ups between the two that never came to fruition. After several attempts over the last five days, both Yong and Nuru agreed that whatever needed to be fixed, Hugo and Varian would have to do it in their own time. 

They just wished the two worked faster.

_____

Hugo couldn’t sleep and that really sucked for him because all he wanted to do was sleep and pretend like his current life was nothing more than a bad dream. 

Varian’s words still echoed around his mind, stinging him when he thought too hard on it. He knew he’d been in the wrong but for once in his life he had been trying to apologize and this? This is what he got out of it? 

Not worth it.

That’s what he told himself, it wasn’t worth it, it wasn’t worth it, it just wasn’t worth it. Of course, that just wasn’t true. 

He hated to admit it but Varian’s forgiveness was worth it. It was worth its weight in gold because it would be from Varian. In the days that he’d spent avoiding Varian physically, he couldn’t escape the other alchemist in his thoughts. He was longing to make up with him, something he never cared about from anyone else. 

There was something about Varian that made him want to be better, to earn his favor. The idea that they could make up, that they could get along, that maybe one day they would do more than just get along…

Hugo smacked his head, trying to get rid of the thoughts before they could manifest. He did not like Varian. Not in that way. No, he couldn’t allow himself to like Varian any more than the regular amount. 

He was a spy after all. A double agent. It was basically traitors 101: Don’t fall for the guy you have to two-face. 

He always sucked at following rules. 

Knowing that he wasn’t about to get a lick of sleep any time soon, Hugo got up from his sleeping bag and exited his tent, hoping that maybe a walk would clear his mind from his unpleasant (or, perhaps, too pleasant) thoughts. 

As he got out he saw that he wasn’t the only one who couldn’t sleep. The lab tent had a dim light shining through the flaps and through the still wind Hugo could barely make out the sound of someone muttering. 

‘Varian’s up too huh?’ He thought to himself. 

His goal was to stay away from Varian, but the light in the tent called to him like a moth to a flame. There could be no harm in just walking by it, right? 

He slinked over to the entrance, pepping inside to see that Varian’s back was turned away from the entrance, head in his hands as he sat in front of several test tubes and scattered papers. 

“What am I supposed to do, Ruddiger?” Varian softly asked the raccoon who was clearly asleep on the ground. 

“Just one big screw up after another,” He continued, “It’s all turned into a mess in just a couple of days. How can I possibly-”

This was a mistake. Hugo shouldn’t have been here, spying on Varian. And of course the other was still mad at him, for good reason. He’d screwed everything up after all, made things one big mess. 

Hugo sighed, wishing he’d just stayed in bed. But before he could leave he heard Varian continue.

“How am I ever going to tell him how sorry I am?”

Hugo paused at those words, taking a moment to linger outside of the tent before quietly slinking in to hear what else Varian had to say. 

“I was just...so upset. He could’ve died and it would’ve been my fault for arguing with him so much about the direction and the traps and everything else. And now he probably hates me right? I just wish I could tell him I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have blamed everything on him. But he’d never accept that.”

“Well maybe if you asked him.” Hugo said, a smile suddenly playing on the edge of his lips. 

Varian jumped, nearly sending all of his chemicals flying and hastily tried to correct himself. 

“Hugo what-what are you doing here? You should be asleep an-and you know it’s rude to spy on people, I was having a personal moment here with Ruddiger and you can’t just walk in here and ruin our heart to heart-”

“I’m sorry.” Hugo’s words stopped Varian dead in his tracks as the other balked at him. 

“What did you say?”

“I’m not used to working with other people, so I didn’t want to listen to you. I wanted to do things my way and maybe even show off a little. But it just cost us a piece to the puzzle and...almost hurt you. I mean, almost hurt Nuru and Yong too but,” Hugo reached out and took Varian’s hand into his own, “I was worried about you the most.” 

He might’ve added the last line to sweeten Varian up just a little bit, but deep down he knew it was true. He’d been more worried about Varian than he’d been about his own hide, which was really saying something. 

He smirked seeing the other’s face turn red in the dim lantern light. God he was cute. And Funny. And charming in his own nerdy way.

“Well I’m sorry too. I shouldn’t have-”

“Oh, shut up, I already heard your apology.” With Varian’s hand still in his own, he leaned forward, his face even closer to the other man’s. 

There was a beat of silence between them, stirring in both of their breaths as they studied the other’s face. They were so close, so tantalizingly close to the other. It would be so easy just to lean down a half inch more, taste Varian's delicious looking lips on his own. Up so close, Hugo could see the plumpness of the other’s bottom lip, the slight shine it had in the warm light from him licking his lips in worry. Just one more half inch. One more. 

Hugo stepped forward. Varian stepped back. 

And the sound of a beaker tipping over and smashing could be heard throughout the night. 

“Fuck!” Varian helped as he turned over and tried to find the broken glass in the soft light. “Shit, shit, I think that one was the hydrofluoric acid. I hadn’t changed it out since I put the crystal...in...it…” 

Hugo peered at him curiously as Varian’s voice died down, a look of puzzlement on his face as he leaned down to examine the pile. The blue eyed alchemist tightened his glove on his hand before gently reaching down into the rubble pile. 

The acid, over the course of a few days, had melted the crystal down. Revealing, in its place, a golden coin that had been left inside. 

Varian stood back up, coin in hand, and held it to the light. 

“That’s the emblem for the city we’re in right?” Hugo asked, looking at the coin curiously.

“Yeah. The emblem and the fountain in the square. Only...hand me a coin. One that we got from the market the other day.”

Hugo did what Varian asked with no hesitation, and the two examined the coins side by side. 

“The lady in the regular emblem on the coin is pointing down. But this one-”

“Is pointing left.” Hugo interrupted.

“Right. I mean, left. I mean-yes. You’re right that she’s pointing left. That’s where the Kingdom’s sewer main entrance is. To the left of the fountain. And the covers! They all have the emblems on them too.” Varian said. 

“I think I remember a few of them pointing in different directions but I thought that was just a pipe thing but what if-”

“They’re directions! It would take us forever to explore the entire sewer system but if they are all pointing in different directions, we start by the one at the fountain-”

“Follow them throughout the city-”

“Until we finish at the right one!”

The last line they both said together excitedly after finishing each other’s sentences.

Varian smacked his hand excitedly against Hugo’s chest several times with a wide grin. 

“And that’s the entrance to the next trial!!! This is amazing! The answer was right here in front of us all along!”

“So Varian, what you’re saying is, that I actually did the right thing and I can retract my apology now.”

“Don’t push it.” Varian tried to act stern but the grin on his face gave him away much too easily. “It’s almost morning, I’m going to go wake the others. And Hugo?”

Before Hugo knew it was coming he felt Varian’s lips press against his cheek for just a fleeting second. His eyes grew wide and he found himself at a loss for words to come back at him with. No that he really minded. 

“We, uh, have a few things to talk about after this.” 

_____

Varian and Hugo didn’t mix, at least not at first. Hugo was rough, so many edges and layers of grime applied through falsities and smarmy charm. But there was something good underneath. Something worth finding. Meanwhile Varian was more true, more honest with himself and with others, but that often led to him being volatile at the wrong times and too quick to action based on emotion. But sometimes a bit of emotion was needed to clear the air, sometimes being volatile could lead to being vulnerable. They were a curious amalgam of two things, both brought together to make something brilliant.

[alkae]

Green Isn’t Your Color

“A ball?”

The boys all gaped at Nuru as she announced that the next kingdom they were going to was hosting a ball and, as a princess, she was invited to join in on the pleasantries.

And since she really, obviously, didn’t like her friends, she invited them too. Yong, however, seemed excited. “Will there be food?” he asked.

Nuru nodded enthusiastically. “Oh the best food.”

He grabbed Varian’s sleeve. “Varian, we have to go!”

Hugo snorted to himself as Varian looked down uncomfortably. “I, uh, I don’t really like parties that much. Especially the ones that require socialization.”

“Varian, all parties require socialization.”

“Exactly.” He looked up at Nuru. “I didn’t even really attend my friends’ wedding. I asked specifically to be in charge of fireworks because I didn’t want to sit in a crowded church.”

Hugo remembered Varian mentioning that before. He had laughed at him then and now, he felt a little guilty laughing.

Just a little.

“Goggles,” he drawled, “are you that terrified of meeting new people?”

Varian locked eyes with him and Hugo took the time to admire how blue they were. “Yes.”

Nuru sighed. “Varian, please. I really don’t want to go alone. And plus, if you say yes, then Hugo will say yes.”

“He will?”

“I will?” This was news to Hugo.

“He agrees to everything that you agree to,” Nuru explained. “If you do it, he’ll do it.”

Varian bit his lip. “I don’t know…”

Yong pulled at Varian’s sleeve. “You don’t have to talk to anyone. You can hang out with me and Hugo by the snack table.”

Hugo saw Nuru’s lips purse but she said nothing. Varian smiled slightly. “Okay. But we don’t have any nice clothes.”

“Clearly,” Hugo said. Varian glared at him.

Nuru stood and Yong followed. “Well, we’ll visit a shop and have outfits made for you. I’ll need new clothes too. I don’t think this will cut it.” She gestured to her dress.

“I think it’s pretty,” Yong said. Nuru smiled at him.

Varian stood too. Hugo remained sitting, watching Varian closely. He still seemed uncomfortable. “Alright,” he agreed. “I could use some more clothes.”

The three of them look over at Hugo expectantly. He shrugged. “As long as you’re paying, princess.”

She threw a stick at him and Hugo laughed.

The group arrived in town and went into a nearby dress shop.

Hugo crinkled his nose. “Why are we at a dress shop, princess?”

“I need a dress. Plus, they don’t just sell dresses here. They have suits.” She makes a wide motion with her arm. “Go on, Hugo. Take Varian and look around.” She accompanied this last statement with a smirk. He glared.

Nuru knew that he liked Varian. Yong probably did too but Nuru most likely swore him to silence. Or she bribed him. Probably that.

Varian and Hugo initially only looked at dresses as a joke. Varian pulled a long, poofy, lacy hot pink dress off the rack and held it up to him. Even if Varian was to wear it, it would’ve been too long for him. It dragged on the floor. “How do I look?” he asked.

Hugo gave him a once over. “Beautiful. You’ll be the belle of the ball.”

Varian snorted and put the dress back. He pulled another one out, this one a bright yellow. “How about this?”

“It’s perfect. If you want to look like the sun.”

Varian laughed. “Maybe that’s the point.”

“You’re already hard enough to look at, hairstripe, don’t make it harder,” Hugo retorted. Varian shot him a warning look before he put the dress back on the rack. He looked at one that was actually very beautiful. It was a nice shade of turquoise with fine gold trim. “Wow. Do you think Nuru would like this?”

Hugo examined it. “No. She’s a purple kind of girl. Plus, I doubt she’d wear anything that doesn’t have stars on it.”

To his surprise, Varian didn’t argue. He continued to stare at the dress. “I like the colors,” he said. “I wonder if there’s something like this in a suit instead.”

“We do,” a voice said behind them. They turned to see a girl with long dirty blonde hair worn in a low ponytail and deep brown eyes with a tape measure draped on her shoulders like a scarf smiling at them. Well, not them. Just Varian.

Hugo felt something hot boiling in his stomach as he noticed the way she looked at him.

Varian smiled back. “Oh cool! I, uh, take it you work here?”

The girl nodded. “Yes. I’m Eleanor. You can call me Lenor. I’m the dress maker’s assistant. She’s currently helping out your friend. The princess, right?”

Was she eavesdropping on their conversation? Hugo scowled at her as Varian seemed to just blow past this. “Yeah, Princess Nuru. She’s actually why we’re here today. See, she was invited to a ball and she wants us to be her guests.”

Lenor’s eyes brightened. “You guys are going to the ball?”

“He just said that,” Hugo grumbled. Varian elbowed him. Lenor’s face soured slightly but she said nothing. “Anyway, we’re just here to get some nice clothes and then bounce. So if you don’t mind showing my friend here the suit so we can pay for it and leave, that would be great.”

“Hugo,” Varian hissed. “I’m sorry about him. Oh and uh, yeah, that’s Hugo. I’m Varian.”

“Nice to meet you Varian.” Lenor paused. “And uh, you too, Hugo.”

Hugo rolled his eyes. “Uh huh.”

Lenor pushed on, focusing only on Varian. “Anyway, I’d be happy showing you the suit. We have some in the back, I think. I just need your size.” She grinned deviously as she grabbed Varian’s arm and led him off. Hugo followed reluctantly. She better not try anything.

Varian stood on a stool as Lenor “measured” him. Hugo slouched in the background, arms crossed and pouting. Lenor certainly was making the most of this. She was currently scraping her arms over his chest under the guise of “measuring”, leaning in close so their cheeks practically collided. Hugo watched as she “tripped” and nearly knocked Varian off the stool. “Oops,” she giggled. “Sorry.”

Lucky for her, Varian was very nice. He just smiled and said, “Oh, no problem!”

Hugo made a noise. “Are we finished here?” he asked. He didn’t bother to keep the snark out of his voice. Lenor shot him a nasty look before pasting on her happy face again.

“Oh yes! But unfortunately, we are out of suits in your size.” She batted her eyelashes at Varian innocently. Hugo repressed the urge to gag. “However, if you come back here later, we can make one for you.”

“I wouldn’t want to be trouble…” Varian started but Lenor cut him off.

“No trouble at all.” She batted her eyes at him again. Hugo scowled. “How about you come by at around 5ish? I should be here.”

“Sure, sounds like a plan.”

Hugo decided to butt in. “Okay, Hairstripe, I think it’s time we headed out. Nuru’s giving us a dirty look from the other side of the store.” She wasn’t but he needed some excuse to pull Varian away. Varian smiled at Lenor apologetically and something inside Hugo simmered.

“I’ll see you at 5?” he asked her.

She grinned. “It’s a date.”

Varian waved and turned. “Nuru’s calling us over. Come on.” Huh. So she was eyeing them angrily. Convenient.

Instead of going with Varian, he and Lenor stared at each other, locked in a silent battle. “Look,” Lenor said. “I’m sure you’re his close friend and all. But it’s completely wrong to keep us apart when it’s so clear that we’re destined to be together.”

Hugo wrinkled his nose. “You just met.”

“Haven’t you heard of love at first sight, Herbert?”

Herbert? Oh she did not. “I have indeed, Luna, but I’ve been told that only fools rush in.”

Lenor rolled her eyes. This certainly wasn’t the nice, helpful girl she was just seconds ago. “Whatever. Just stay out of our way. Nothing will stop us from getting together and if you try, I will destroy you.”

Hugo eyed her. She hardly went up to his chest. “I’m terrified, Lexi. Now, I must go. My friend, Varian, is waiting for me.” He turned to leave but stopped and turned back around. With one hand, he did a cocky little wave at her. “See you at 5, babe?”

She gave him a rude gesture and he laughed and stalked off. Oh he was so accompanying Varian when he came back here. If only to annoy Lenor some more.

At 5, Varian and Hugo went back to the shop where Lenor was waiting eagerly at the door like a puppy waiting for their master.

“Hello, Varian!” she said. She gave Hugo a once over. “You.”

He looked at her coolly. “You.”

Varian, socially oblivious boy that he was, just started walking to the back of the store. Lenor mouthed, “I will destroy you.”

Hugo mouthed back, “I’d love to see you try.”

She made an “ugh” gesture and whipped around. “Are you ready for your fitting, Varian?” Her voice was annoyingly sweet.

Varian smiled at her. “Ready as I’ll ever be,” he said, albeit a little nervously. He sat on the stool. “So, uh, how, uh, how long will this take, Lenor?”

Varian wasn’t close to her but Hugo was and he heard her whisper, “As long as it takes to make you mine.” She pointedly glared at Hugo who scoffed.

“You don’t own him,” he whispered back.

“Neither do you,” she hissed.

“Uh, Lenor? Hugo?”

Varian was perched on the stool, adorably awkward. Lenor straightened and smoothed her skirt. “Right! Sorry, Vari.”

She was already giving him pet names? Not for the first time that day, Hugo’s nose wrinkled. That, her whispering, and the fact that she touched him excessively while “measuring” him set off warning lights in Hugo’s head.

Speaking of which, she was already touching him. Her measuring tape wasn’t even out. “Alright! I’ll get the fabric and be right back.” She flounced off to the backroom as Hugo made his way to the back and stood in front of Varian.

He gave a small smile to Hugo. “She seems nice.” He seemed uncertain.

Hugo shrugged. “She’s got energy,” he said.

Varian laughed. “Well, I mean, you aren’t wrong.”

Hugo felt himself smile. Just a little. “When have I ever been wrong, Goggles?”

Varian tapped his chin in false thought. “Hmmm, I wonder?”

Hugo lightly pushed Varian. “That was a rhetorical question.” Varian laughed again and it sounded like music.

“I’m back!” Hugo startled when he saw Lenor standing behind Varian, a bundle of fabric clutched in her hands. Her smile was wide and forced and when Varian turned back around, her stare was withering as she looked at Hugo. He raised his hands innocently. He did nothing. Was it a crime to talk to his friend/longtime crush?

Lenor set the cloth down. “Alright, Varian. I’m going to need you to change your clothes into this-” She held up a skin tight, plain white outfit that Hugo had seen people wear while they were getting fitted, so he gave her that. “-and then we’ll get started.”

Varian took it from her hestitantly. He looked at Hugo, a silent question passing between them. Hugo nodded in affirmation and Varian stood to go to the changing room.

“Where are you going?” Lenor asked.

Varian hesitated. “Uh, to change?”

Hugo butted in. “What, you want him to just strip here in the store?” He liked Varian too, but he accepted that a man must have his dignity. Lenor appropriately flushed and shook her head. Varian smiled appreciatively at Hugo and then rushed off to change. This left Hugo and Lenor alone, which wasn’t a very good idea.

“So,” he said.

“So,” she said.

“Is there a reason you’re obsessively touching him?” he asked.

Lenor blushed again. “It’s my job, Henry!”

Hugo scoffed again. “Your job should not require that much physical contact without a needle, cloth and/or measuring tape, Leandra.”

Her blush deepened. “Shut up.”

He crossed his arms. “I’m fine if you flirt with him.” That was a bit of a lie. “But refrain from being a creep, please and thank you.”

“I am not being a creep,” she snapped.

“Then stop touching him obsessively.”

Lenor huffed and then crossed her arms. “Fine. To prove that I’m not a creep, I won’t touch him for anything except my job. Happy?”

He smiled cheekily. “Thrilled.”

They were at a standstill again when Varian came back, face red at the tightness of the undergarments he was required to wear for his fitting. Hugo whistled. “Looking good, Hairstripe. Very ball ready.”

Varian glared at him and shoved his clothes at Hugo. Even though he wasn’t wearing his clothes, he looked extremely naked without his gloves and goggles. Hugo found himself looking for them subconsciously. “Can I not call you Goggles now?”

Varian shoved him, lightly. “Be quiet, Hugo.” But there was a slight lift to his lips. He went to stand on the stool, visibly uncomfortable. Lenor picked up the fabric and grinned.

“Alright! Let’s get started shall we?”

The fitting was rather uneventful. Hugo was mostly staring at the wall but was occasionally drawn to Varian and his nervous face. To calm him, Hugo gave a not helpful thumbs up which distracted Varian from the fitting by annoying him.

Finally, Lenor put down the needle and stepped back. “Okay. I think we’re about done here, Vari.”

Hugo looked up to see Varian, standing there in a turquoise suit with golden trim and a white dress shirt. It was just a suit but something about the color matching with the stripe of blue in Varian’s hair and the way it brought out the blue in Varian’s eyes made his jaw drop slightly. He picked it up before Varian noticed.

“Looking good,” he said again, this time serious.

Varian picked at his sleeve. Lenor batted his hand away. “Don’t do that,” she scolded but she sounded as in awe as Hugo was.

They were just clothes but somehow, Varian seemed… older. Handsomer. More confident, even as his expression was worried and anxious. He mustered up a somewhat happy expression that he aimed only at Hugo. “Really?”

Hugo nodded. “Now all you need is goggles and gloves and boom, you’re all set!”

Varian narrowed his eyes. “I can’t tell if you’re joking or not.”

Lenor clasped her hands. “Well, you’re all set. Just one thing.”

Hugo was immediately suspicious. “And what’s that?”

She gave him a nasty look before saying, “There’s a loose strand on the back of the suit. Now I would just do it now but it’s in a place that may hurt if I poke you. So I’ll take the suit, fix it and you can pick it up tomorrow?” Her face was innocent but her eyes were scheming.

And Varian just nodded in agreement. “Sounds good. Thank you, Lenor.”

She gushed at the compliment. “It’s my pleasure, Varian. Anything you need, just ask.”

Hugo exhaled loudly through his nose in frustration. “Right. Now, why don’t you change, Hairstripe, and we can head back to Nuru and Yong before they send out a search party.”

Varian changed and Lenor and Hugo got in a few extra glares before Varian and Hugo left. On their way out, Lenor called after them, “Noon, okay?”

Varian waved. “Noon it is!”

Hugo could see her smug look from 5 feet away. The door closed behind them and they were out in the town. Just the two of them. Hugo cleared his throat. “So, Hairstripe. What do you say we get dinner?”

This statement made Varian give Hugo a questioning look. “You want to buy something? Well that’s new.”

“Don’t insult me, I’m trying to be nice.”

Varian’s look was skeptical but he didn’t protest. He looked more like himself now, with the goggles pushed into his hair and his gloves that were stained with who knows what. Even though he looked amazing in the suit, he looked even better as himself.

The two went to a nearby shop where Varian ordered and Hugo paid. They made sure to get some food for Nuru and Yong so the two weren’t completely left out. However, they still sat at a table together and ate their food. It was pretty empty so there were a lot of tables around.

Through a mouth full of sandwich, Varian said, “You still need to get a suit, Hugo.”

Hugo picked out some tomato from his sandwich. “What, you’re saying this isn’t ball worthy, Hairstripe?” He gestured to his clothes, which were also slightly stained from an experiment. “I am insulted. Insulted, I say!”

Varian snort laughed and then choked a little on his sandwich. Swallowing, he said, “Come on. You know you like buying nice things. When we pick up my suit tomorrow, we’ll find one for you.”

Hugo disliked the idea of giving Lenor any more business, especially after Varian, Yong and Nuru (as Hugo predicted, she did buy a purple dress with stars on it) already bought from her. But then he reasoned that she didn’t own the store and she was an assistant. So he might as well.

Then he wondered why an assistant was doing a fitting instead of the owner of the store. He chewed his sandwich in thought.

Varian continued. “You’re the only one without a nice outfit. There must be something for you.”

Hugo raised a brow. “Nothing will make me look nicer than I already look.” He took another bite and winced as he tasted tomato. “Just get me something green and call it a day.”

Green was what Hugo wore everyday. Similar to how Varian wore blue, Nuru wore purple and Yong wore red. But Varian still looked him up and down and then leaned back in his chair. “I don’t know, Hugo. Green just isn’t your color.”

Hugo gasped. “Hairstripe! I am appalled!”

But Varian was laughing and his laughter was contagious and soon they found themselves laughing together in a sandwich shop.

Soon, they finished and headed back to where they were staying, Yong and Nuru’s sandwiches in tow. “In all seriousness,” Varian said suddenly, “I think you look pretty good in green.”

Surprised, Hugo turned and tried to read Varian’s expression. He was looking straight ahead, face purposefully blank.

Hugo couldn’t help the goofy grin that creeped its way onto his face. “And you,” he said, praying he had the boldness, “look decent in turquoise.”

Now Varian let that smile loose, the one that showed off his buckteeth that he admitted to be a little embarrassed about. “I’m an adult,” he had said to Hugo one day. “I shouldn’t have these. They’re not cute in adulthood.”

Hugo had paused and then replied, “I don’t know, Hairstripe. Adults beavers look pretty cute with them.”

Varian had thrown a stick or something at him that day but he could tell that Varian was feeling better about himself.

The two walked back together, both grinning to themselves. And Hugo didn't even mind getting yelled at about being late that much.

The next day, Varian and Hugo found themselves back at the dress shop.

Instead of going straight to Lenor, Varian dragged Hugo through the racks, searching for a suit for him. “This would go faster if you would help,” Varian said, annoyed, as Hugo stood, arms crossed, behind him.

“I’d love to, Hairstripe, but this really isn’t my thing.”

“Hugo!”

“Alright!” Just to make Varian happy, Hugo fake looked through the racks, barely skimming through the suits. He didn’t really want to go to the ball. He didn’t think he could stand seeing Varian looking like that for an entire night. But to make Varian and Nuru and possibly Yong happy, he decided to go along with them.

“Hey, what about this?” Varian asked. Hugo looked up, ready with a quip, when he stopped short. Because, dammit, the suit actually looked good. It was green with silver trim and a matching green tie with a crisp white shirt to go along with it. And the suit looked relatively shiny and nice, something that won Hugo over immediately.

He gingerly took it from Varian and, subtly, checked the price and the size. It was perfect. What diety came down and blessed him with this suit? How was the day going so right so far? This never happened.

“Vari!”

Oh wait. Nevermind.

Hugo’s face soured as he spotted Lenor bounding over to them like an overexcited horse seeing their rider. He noticed Varian’s face falter slightly too. “Hey, Lenor.”

She stopped right in front of him, nearly colliding with him. “I’m so glad to see you! You’re suit’s all done and in the back. Come on, I’ll show it to you!” Lenor led Varian and Hugo to the backroom where, low and behold, there sat the suit. “Tada! Do you like it?”

Varian nodded. “It’s amazing, Lenor. I’m impressed.”

Hugo folded the green suit over his arm, faking boredness. “Yes, well done, Luan. Now how’s about we pay for this and head out?”

Lenor made a face but Varian agreed and the three headed up to the register to pay. But before they could finish and leave, Lenor stopped them. “Hey, Vari, I saw you at the sandwich shop last night.”

Varian and Hugo both paused. “What? Really?” Varian asked.

She nodded. “Yes! I didn’t know you liked Kylian’s Sandwich Shop. Maybe we could go there sometime.”

“Oh, uh.” Varian fiddled with his gloves. “I’m sorry but I’m not sure I have the time, Lenor. I mean the ball is tonight and right after, we have to leave.”

Lenor sighed. “Oh the ball.” She sighed again, dramatically. Hugo eyed her skeptically. “I always wanted to go but, alas, a dress maker’s assistant would never get an invitation.”

Hugo saw where this was going but couldn’t get a word in before Varian said, “Well why don’t you come with us?”

Hugo was shaking his head no as Lenor lit up. “Oh really? You’d take me? Oh, Vari, that is so sweet!”

This time, Hugo did interrupt. “We’re going as a group, Lori. That means we’ll have to check to see if it’s okay with Nuru and Yong before you can actually go.”

“I’m sure they’ll be fine with it,” Varian said. Hugo shot him an annoyed look. Was he really doing this? Did he really want Lenor to come with them to the ball?

Lenor clasped her hands. “I would love to go, Vari. Why don’t you and, uh, your group come down and pick me up around a quarter to 7? That would give us enough time to get there.”

Varian nodded as Hugo put his face in his hands. “Sounds good. We’ll meet you there.”

On their way out, Hugo resisted the urge to scream at Varian. Did he seriously want a total stranger to come with them to the ball?

“Hairstripe,” he said through gritted teeth. “What the fuck?”

Varian stared straight forward. “I was being nice, Hugo. It’s not hard.”

“She’s a stranger! Who may have stalked yo-us. And you’re inviting her to the ball? Are you kidding?”

Varian stopped and sighed. “Look, Hugo, I know you two don’t like each other. But please, give her a bit of a chance.”

“What? Why?”

“I gave you a chance, didn’t I?” Varian reminded him. Hugo fell silent. Varian pressed on. “You stole the totem when we first met and you were a total stranger who ‘schmoozed’ his way into our group. But I still trusted you.”

“And you trust her?” Hugo asked.

Varian shrugged helplessly. “I… she reminds me a bit of me. She’s clearly not used to other people and I was just like her. I want to give her the chance to be our friend, Hugo. I want to give her the kindness I never received.” He looked up at Hugo, eyes big and blue and lovely. “Please let me give her that chance.”

Hugo bit his lip. As much as he didn’t like Lenor, as much as he didn’t trust her, he knew that Varian had a big heart and didn’t trust easy. So if he thought she could change and be better… “Okay, Hairstripe. But if she turns out to be a murderer…”

“I’ll know how to deal with it,” Varian finished. He smiled at Hugo and it was so kind that it melted his heart. “Thank you.”

Hugo shrugged and continued forward. “You did the same for me.”

“Are you boys ready?”

Yong stumbled out of the bathroom, tie undone and hair messy. Nuru sighed. “Honestly, Yong,” she said as she tied his tie for him.

Hugo was already dressed, tie done, hair slicked back, and jacket buttoned. Nuru looked at him with begrudging approval. “You look nice, Hugo.”

Nuru was wearing a long, elegant purple dress with star patterns on the bottom. She wore her signature clip in her hair, which she pulled back. “You look nice too, princess.”

She smoothed her dress. “Thank you. Now, we just need Varian.”

And speak of the devil, there he was, coming out of the bathroom with a hand shoved in his pocket awkwardly. He looked as he did in the store but nicer, what with his hair done and maybe something was done to his face too, because he looked radiant.

Hugo was staring. He knew it. And Varian was staring too.

“Uh,” Varian said. He cleared his throat. “I picked the right suit, huh?”

Hugo breathed a laugh. “Don’t give yourself too much credit, Hairstripe.” Then, kinder, he said, “You clean up good.”

There was a slight reddening to Varian’s cheeks. “You look good too, Hugo.”

They stood there, staring at each other for seemingly forever until Nuru clapped her hands. “Okay boys! We need to pick up Lenor and then to the ball.”

Varian was nervous about wrecking his suit but Nuru assured him that he couldn’t possibly ruin it in the 5 minutes it took to walk to the dress shop. When the entered, they saw Lenor with her hair braided wearing a seafoam dress with a bow around the waist. “You look nice, Lenor,” Varian said. Hugo pointedly adjusted his tie.

Lenor sighed breathily. “And you look amazing, Vari.”

Hugo caught Yong mouthing to Nuru, “Vari?” Nuru shrugged. Hugo coughed. “Shall we?” He locked eyes with Lenor, who provided him with an icy stare.

The walk to the castle surprisingly wasn’t very long either. Lenor talked to Varian the entire way, leaving Hugo with Nuru and Yong, both of whom were confused. Yong whispered to Hugo, “Is she Varian’s girlfriend?”

Hugo glanced over his shoulder to see Varian uncomfortably walking at Lenor’s side, eyes wide. “I’m guessing not.”

“Then why is she acting like it?”

Hugo shrugged and that was that.

The ball was bustling by the time they arrived and Nuru was immediately called on by the king and queen. She dragged Yong with her, claiming that he could distract them with his explosions when the conversation got boring.

That left Hugo, Varian and Lenor.

Immediately, Lenor was bugging Varian to dance, pulling at his arm and bouncing on her heels. “It’s tradition, Vari!”

“What a concept,” Hugo muttered. “Dancing at a ball.”

Lenor glowered at him. “Whatever.” She grabbed Varian’s arm firmly and dragged him off. “Come on! I’ll show you.” She ignored his protests and vanished into the crowd. Hugo watched as they went and then sighed.

Soon Yong was coming up to him, cheeks red with excitement. “What happened, kid?” Hugo asked.

Yong shrugged. “They sent me away. They said I was ‘too much’ for them.”

This cheered Hugo up and he suggested they hide at the snackbar while Nuru and Varian “socialized.”

An hour or so passed before Varian hobbled over to Hugo (Yong was taken away again by a desperately bored Nuru). “How’s your new girlfriend treating you?” Hugo drawled.

Varian rubbed his feet and groaned. “If I have to do another dance, I might actually keel over.” He looked up frantically as Lenor called his name from the crowd. “Hugo, quick.”

“What?” He didn’t have time to think before Varian was pulling him away, away from Lenor and Nuru and Yong and out of the ballroom. They had no idea where they were going and that was fine. They ran down corridors and hallways and soon they found themselves out on a balcony, staring out at a garden.

Hugo snorted at the sight. “Of course they have a garden.”

Varian leaned on the railing and closed his eyes. Hugo watched him. “You good, Hairstripe?”

“No,” Varian said immediately. “I’m tired and exhausted.”

“Pretty sure those are synonyms.”

“You know what I mean.” Varian rubbed his eyes. “Lenor has been dragging me around all night, dancing. I just want a break. I didn’t even want to come tonight. I just wanted to hang out with you.”

Hugo was surprised. “Me? Like just me or like with Yong?”

Varian shrugged. “You’re a pretty fun guy to be around Hugo. You know, when you’re not being pretentious.” Hugo laughed. “I’m serious. It’s nice to hang out with you. You’re funny and smart and you always seem to know what to say to make me feel better.”

Hugo leaned on the railing too. “I could say the same about you, Hairstripe. I mean, you did trust me enough to let me join your merry band of misfits.”

Varian cocked a brow. “Is that seriously what you call us?”

“What else would fit?”

Varian laughed and Hugo joined in. A comfortable silence fell on them. Varian broke it. “You know, the best part about these two days in this town was getting to hang out with you. I’m glad I chose to trust you, Hugo.” He looked up at him with those eyes. Hugo swallowed.

“And I’m glad you trusted me, Varian.”

Varian bit his lip. “I like you a lot, Hugo,” he continued. He brushed a stray hair from his face. “Like, a lot. I hope you know that.”

Hugo narrowed his eyes at Varian. “As a friend?” He needed clarification.

The look in Varian’s eyes was enough. “What do you think?”

Hugo swallowed again. “I think I like you a lot too, Varian.”

And the smile on his face was so bright it could’ve lit an entire town. Varian leaned in and Hugo was determined to meet him. They kissed, nice and sweet, with Varian’s hand resting on Hugo’s neck and Hugo’s arms around his waist. They broke apart for a second so Hugo could say, “You look beautiful tonight.”

“I do?” Varian sounded breathless.

“Yes. The belle of the ball.”

Varian giggled and closed the space between them again. They stayed like that until a voice said, “What?”

They broke apart and saw Lenor standing in the doorway, jaw practically to the floor. She was looking at Varian, then at Hugo, then at Varian again. Hugo was cool while Varian looked embarrassed.

An awkward silence passed between them before Varian cleared his throat. “Are you, uh, enjoying the ball?”

Hugo burst out laughing.

[nyotasaimiri]

[Floran time! Ouch]

((What?? Two days in a row? I haven’t done that in... uh, four years. Sorry about that ^.^;; But this one takes place in the Hunting Grounds, after Nyota and Nuru part ways)) 

Her shoulder ached, and blood matted her fur as she caught her breath by Nuru’s small fire. In the end, Nyota had won that scuffle, but she wouldn’t be forgetting her wounds any time soon, even with the healing water’s help. The little pots of salve she had made on Mimosa Strand could only do so much for what was left.

‘At least they dull the pain,’ she muttered, cleaning the blood away as best she could. Four on one had almost proved too rough. She was lucky she had managed to catch them in a narrow passage, force them to come at her slow.

‘Are you alright, Nyota?’ Esther asked. The worry was clear in her voice. ‘SAIL’s readings say you are injured.’

‘I’ll be alright, Esther. I just got a little careless,’ Nyota replied. It was a lie—she had been anything but. But it would reassure Esther, perhaps. She hissed as the ointment stung a gash on her right arm. ‘The Floran know these tunnels far better than I do. I should have paid more attention.’

‘Whatever these Floran are pursuing is obviously of grave importance to them,’ the old woman remarked. ‘They’re worse than me on a bug hunt! Be careful, dear.’

Nyota laughed softly at the metaphor and stood up again. Esther was keeping their spirits up with the jokes. The least Nyota could do was return the favour, and press on. Time to keep moving.

Green fibres clung to the walls all around her as Nyota headed deeper into the caverns; it reminded her of the odd webbing she’d found in the Floran village, but on a much grander scale. Esther said this stuff came from some manner of insect, she remembered, poking it with her spear. It didn’t even scratch. Whatever made this much must be huge.

The webbing moved. Nyota scrambled back as a pink thing tumbled out of it. It was about the size of a large dog, but almost roly-poly round. Its legs and body were protected by some sort of white, bone-like shell. It chirped up at her, almost cute. Then it jumped at her face. With a startled yell, Nyota swung her spear and caught it mid-leap. It dissolved as the tip cleaved right through it. Breathing hard, she slowly lowered her weapon. ‘SAIL,’ she said, ‘what in all the worlds is that?’

‘The creature did not survive long enough for a thorough scan,’ SAIL reported, ‘but there seem to be others nearby. Evidence indicates these entities are not yet fully mature; there is a high likelihood they are only freshly hatched. You appear to have stumbled into a nest.’

Nyota bared her teeth in displeasure. Of course, with her luck, their mother was still nearby. It was just like the poptops down in the old mine. But she needed core fragments then, and she needed the artefact now. This was the only way forward.

Five minutes and half a dozen more jumping squishy beasts later, the ground shook under her feet. It wasn’t an earthquake, not like any she’d felt before. It had definitely come from just up ahead. Did something heavy fall down over there? she wondered.

She could just make out a sign etched into the wall ahead. Someone had lit a torch beside it. Nyota headed over to get a closer look. ‘This is an odd one,’ she muttered, studying the carving. ‘Could be a three-toed footprint, or a falling boulder.’ It was an old carving, but it had been refreshed many times over the years. So the warning was important. Nyota looked around in faint hope, but she saw no branching paths. No choices.

As it turned out, her second guess was right. A boulder crashed down right in front of her as Nyota reached a long corridor. She froze, profanity dead on her lips in sheer horror. I’m supposed to go through here?

‘Nyota?’ Esther’s voice was faint, the signal weakened by the depth underground. ‘SAIL is showing some terribly dangerous readings ahead—my goodness, what was that?’

‘Danger,’ Nyota replied grimly as the next boulder crashed down again. ‘Esther, I am going to turn off my comms for a little while. I will switch them back on when I am done, but I need to focus, and you don’t need to hear me swearing.’

‘Nyota, it isn’t too late to go back—’  

Nyota’s fingers found the off switch. She leaned against the wall, focusing on her slowed, steadied breathing and on the falling rocks. There was a rhythm to them. A pattern. She could do this. It was just like the obstacle courses she had been forced to run so long ago. The Hunt was a test, too. She could do this.

Don’t think. Do. The rocks pounded hard behind, in front, too close, too fast—Nyota leapt aside and let it roll past, then took off again as fast as she could before the next could come along. Her leg, her ears throbbed—and then she was through, feet clearing the last jump over a pit that swallowed the rock behind her.

She leaned against the wall, panting for breath, watching the boulders crash down just out of reach. I really hope I don’t have to do that again.

[honeyxmonkey]

Varigo one-shot suggested by @midnights-calm

Varian and Hugo ran as fast as they could out of the cave and into the forest. Neither knew where they were going, they just needed to run.

They stumbled blindly through the darkened forest, hoping to get as far away from Donella's goons as possible.

"Wait, wait, wait." Hugo rasped out, slowing down. His breathing was heavy and ragged. "Hang on... I gotta-gotta catch my breath."

They stopped and Hugo slumped against a tree. That's when Varian noticed dark red staining his boyfriend's green vest.

"Hugo..."

The blond suddenly stumbled forward and Varian barely managed to catch him.

"Hugo!"

He laid him on the ground and knelt next to him. "W-what happened?"

Hugo grimaced in pain as Varian placed a hand on his wound.

"One of them got me." His breathing was getting more heavy and uneven. "I'll probably be fine."

Varian was trying very hard not to panic. He had no idea what to do. He did the only thing he could, he put pressure on the wound, doing his best to staunch the blood flow.

"I-I don't know what to do." Varian stammered, trying to keep the tears at bay.

Hugo coughed. He was obviously fighting to stay awake.

"Hey... it's okay. I'll be fine..." he trailed off, slowly drifting into unconsciousness.

"Hey!" Varian shook his shoulder a little. "You gotta... you gotta stay awake baby. I can't-I can't do this without you. You need to tell me what to do."

Hugo shook himself awake. "You're doing great. Just keep pressure on it." He fell silent for a moment and Varian was scared he'd passed out. "There's gauze and the disinfector Nuru makes me carry around in my bag..."

Varian reached for it and got the supplies. He turned back to his boyfriend who's eyes were drifting closed.

"Stop doing that. I don't know what I'm doing." Varian choked out. He was doing a very bad job at not crying.

"You need'ta clean the wound and then use the spray... and then..." he made a vague circular motion with his hand. He mumbled something incoherent.

Varian pursed his lips but got to work. He cleaned, disinfected, and wrapped the wound within thirty minutes and by the time he was done Hugo had long been unconscious.

Varian sat down hard, pulling off his bloody gloves and setting them aside. He gently pulled Hugo's head into his lap. The only thing he could do now, was wait.

Hopefully he'd taken care of it soon enough that Hugo wouldn't die. Varian didn't know what he would do if Hugo died.

"Please be okay." Varian's pleading whispers fell on deaf ears. "Please, please be okay."

He brushed his thumb over Hugo's cheek, while softly humming a melody to a lullaby his mother once sang for him. He'd long since forgotten the words, but the tune was unforgettable.

He paused in his singing to reach into his bag and take out the emergency flare. He debated whether or not to take the risk to signal their friends. Eventually he decided against it. They hadn't gotten as far away from the cave as Varian would've liked and Donella may still be looking for them.

He resumed gently caressing Hugo's face while he waited for his other half to wake up.

After almost an hour Hugo began to stir. He groaned, trying to sit up but immediately regretted it when pain shot up his side. He slumped back down against Varian who was very worried.

"Hey there, Sweet Cheeks." Hugo tried for a smile but it looked more like a painful grimace.

"On a scale of one to ten."

"Eight."

"Think you can walk?"

"Only if you're willing to support me. Doubt I'll make it five feet on my own."

Varian nodded.

Still neither of them had moved.

After a minute Varian decided to get up. He stood and helped up Hugo who bit back a cry of pain at the movement.

"Sorry, sorry!" Varian rushed through the apology as Hugo leaned against him. "We just, we need to to get back to camp."

Hugo nodded, blinking black spots out of his eyes. "Let's hurry before I pass out again."

It was meant to be a joke but Varian inwardly panicked at his words.

"O-okay."

----

They made it back to camp twenty minutes later and Hugo looked like absolute hell.

"I think I need to sit down." His eyes looked glassy and sweat was pouring down his face.

Varian simply nodded again. He didn't trust his own voice not to crack.

He led Hugo to the fire and set him down so he was leaning against one of the logs.

"I'll be right back. I'm going to find Nuru."

He didn't wait for an answer before setting off towards the tents.

Varian found the princess walking out of Yong's tent after presumably tucking him in for the night. She startled upon seeing him.

"Where have you been!" She hissed. "We've been worried sick."

"You can yell at me later. Right now, you need to help Hugo."

Nuru let Varian lead her to the fire where Hugo was looking worse than when he'd left him not even five minutes earlier.

"What happened to him?" She asked, kneeling next to him, lifting his shirt and the bandage to get a better look at the wound. What she saw almost made her gag.

Green and yellow bruises were surrounding the stab wound which had black veins spreading from it.

She looked at the blond. "What hit you?"

"Did I forget to mention they sometimes poison their weapons?"

"Yes!"

He laughed weakly, still trying to play it off as a joke. "What's the doctors verdict?"

Nuru glared at him. "Varian, go get my bag. I need to make sure this idiot doesn't die."

After properly treating his wound and making sure he wouldn't die, Nuru cleaned up and instructed Varian to make sure Hugo got rest.

"We'll have to stay here an extra day to make sure he's actually fine."

Now they sat alone in their tent. Hugo watched Varian put away a few things.

"Go to sleep."

Hugo ignored his orders. "Are you okay?"

Varian felt tears stinging in his eyes as he looked at his boyfriend, still sweaty and pale from trying to fight off the poison.

"No." He admitted, letting the tears fall. "You-you almost died tonight! I-I..."

Hugo pulled Varian down into a hug and let the younger cry into his chest.

"I don't know what I would've done if I'd lost you tonight." Varian sobbed as Hugo gently rubbed his back. "You're such an idiot!"

"You... you always do this. Whenever you get hurt you act like it's not a big deal." Varian looked up at him, tears staining his face. "I can't... I can't deal with this anymore. I love you too much and I can't lose you!"

Hugo looked shocked. He slowly cupped Varian's face with both hands, wiping away some of the tears. Varian leaned into his touch with a shuddering breath.

"I'm sorry I scared you." The blond whispered. "I love you too, Goggles."

They both leaned forward into a kiss. Varian brought his hands up to the back of Hugo's neck and Hugo curled one of his hands into Varian's hair.

When they broke the kiss, they leaned their foreheads together.

"You better rest now or I'm duct taping you to the ground."

Hugo laughed at the threat. "Okay, but only if you cuddle with me."

That was something Varian was definitely willing to do and they fell asleep in each other's embrace.

[raza2theworld]

Kubeba Nuru

Her hips swayed side to side, causing the beads crafted from river stones to click and clutter into each other. Rich brown toes dug into the wet soil as her arms began to move through the steady flow of rain and wind rising from her hips. Greeting her sincerely, the rain sprinkled itself into her deep umber hair that like her ancestors grew towards the skies. The neat cornrows carried the dewdrops in the same manner as the night sky and the stars. With closed eyes and a soft smile, she who was of the very same soil she danced in began to listen to the voices of her ancestors. Opening an eye just for a small peek, she could see the happiness of her stilled ancestors. Once her arms reached past her head, she looked towards the sky holding open her palms to receiving the gift of their world. Before she knew it, her hands were full of rainwater that ran down her arm steadily. Evidently, she didn’t receive the blessing in the same manner as they did as her form was that of a different life and being.

“Zuri Zuri.” The voice didn’t surprise her nor did the sudden presence of arms that wrapped around her waist and swayed with her, “My beautiful Flower, you have not ascended yet, you shouldn’t be bear in the rain.” His concern always made her smile even if it was over something as small as wearing her beads too tight. It was refreshing to see that the overly worried boy grew into her overly worried partner in life. As his hand landed on the underneath of her belly, supporting it with a light touch, she leaned into his warm skin and swayed with him. Keeping her voice soft for the risk of disturbing the ancestors on the day that they were receiving the blessing that she had prayed for it and begged for.

“If you are worried, then stay with me,” she said softly as the droplets that only grew more fierce with time. “Your child is fine, I promise, so let us enjoy together,” she said before stepping forward and continuing her dance for the skies.

Hearing his deep chuckle, she stopped mid-step before turning to face him, feeling the soil between her toes as her brows furrowed as she gave him a soft hum. Knowing this hum, he reacted to accordingly. Letting his concerns slip to the back of his mind, he began to mirror her previous actions with a delicate step into the soil. Watching his sincere steps, she nodded in approval before taking note of his steady, elegant rhythm. Together they began to celebrate the blessing of their creator who continuously provided nourishment when they sought it out. Watching him close his vibrant obsidian colored eyes, she held down a giggle as his dancing had improved since all that time ago when he first learned of where to find her during the season of rain.

Zuri, who was the daughter of her father, wife to her husband, and mother to her unborn son. All of which she proudly proclaim each time with a smile that rivaled the very stars that she would chart in her hair. Zuri was a young woman who with her father worked to spread the truth of their ancestors to all of those who would open their hearts to allow themselves to learn the truth of what her father described as the misunderstanding that destroyed the beautiful tribe of their ancestors’ children. 

Every morning, she would rise and seek out the lives within the earth, offering her comfort and company with a sincere heart as she was taught to. This was the key to understanding why their relatives would risk their lives to protect the sacred home. The risk-taking and sacrifice was a shared bond between all the beings within the paradise of Shola. Named after the founder of the land and the first to understand that one could bond with all lives, Zuri’s home was one that was consistently flourished with life. Thus Zuri’s morning lasted far into the afternoon. By the time, the afternoon sun would shine, Zuri would be done greeting life and accepting anything it had to offer her. Often carrying several baskets of their produce and product, she would still stop to greet those who spoke her tongue.

 Even more so when it was a child who was interested in Zuri’s opinion on the growth of their vines. Which never stopped at one, however she didn’t mind at all as the state of the children’s vines always allowed her to see the condition of their land’s soil. Her people would always comment on how she should take more time for herself, especially as she was at the peak age of transitioning into motherhood. Truthfully, It was rather hard to find time for herself or for her husband, but Zuri was a skillful woman of the earth, so when their tribe learned of her pregnancy only a few were surprised. While many weren’t surprised of it occurring due to their age, many wondered how it was possible.

Both Jahi and Zuri were very dedicated to their land, while Zuri was offering compassion and comfort. Jahi and his men were providing protection with the aid of their ancestors. Jahi, despite his calm and overly cautious nature, Jahi was a man of action. Which the ancestors were grateful for, especially as those who worked with Jahi knew that he would always come back with his men. His caution aided in him with his strength in the best way, as he was able to lead his men into battle and bring them all home. While both were deemed highly respectable, their union was more of a surprise then the pregnancy.

They weren’t exactly seen with each other often after they grew into their roles, but those who had seen them as children had some idea but never expected it. However, Jahi and Zuri had ways of understanding each other when no one else but the damu flowers could. Jahi always knew where to find Zuri and how to entertain her active mind and spirit. In their eyes, they were more than a perfect match. It was easy for them, as both always stayed true to their pact. Every night during the time where the eye of mwezi would disappear and before the arrival with the eye of Jua, they would meet with one another and rest at the highest point in Shola where the Damu flowers bloomed first and spend the time together privately. It was during those private moments, where Jahi and Zuri would become one with their land and allow their kneph to be open and accepting of one another, accepting each other’s flaws and fears till no end.

After the rain had finally stopped and Jahi was acting as Zuri’s cushion as they watched the ancestor carry the rain down their bodies. Opening her eyes, she looked up at him with a concerned frown which immediately provoked Jahi’s hand to shift up to her forehead searching for heat before moving down the side of her cheek to comfort her, “What is it? Has the child caused pain?” he asked as a nearby vine gently wrapped itself around her ankle concerned for the same reason.

Shaking her head, “No. I just suddenly feel unsure.” Shifting up, Zuri was cautious of the vine as she looked into the deep eyes of Jahi. Resting her elbow on his thigh, she shifted closer, allowing his arm to return to its position of cradling her waist.

For once, she felt almost as worried as him. “Unsure?” he asked as his posture shifted into a proper one to not only cradle her but to be prepared for anything. Zuri’s instinct wasn’t something he took lightly if she felt unsure or danger, usually something was going to go amidst.

“Will tomorrow and the other days truly feel this way forever?” She asked. Taking note of the sky, Jahi attempted to make a joke as perhaps it was just the baby causing the worries of a new mother.

“Well, I think the rain was only for today, so we will have to return to our routine tomorrow and the next, but we will always have the nights, my flower.” Drumming his fingers on her thigh, he watched her face shift into an expression he didn’t often see from her, “Would it help if we scouted?” he asked. Carefully tapping the vine around his neck, it began to wrap itself around his hand that wasn’t soothing her thighs that changed with her pregnancy. “

No. Stay with Jahi. Just stay with me.” She asked before shifting back against his thighs. “We are written together. I will never go anywhere without you, my flower. You are the reason I raise and fall. You and him,” he said carefully before growing quietly as he couldn’t understand where her concerns were coming from.

While he thought his tone was unwavering, she could tell based on his tone and his silence that she had worried him. She was worrying herself more and more lately. Moments of stillness became moments where she found herself counting the seconds, wondering how long it would last. There would be times when Jahi would sleep next to her that she could feel her heart tense and panic in a way that could only be soothed by clinging to him. There was something that the warmth of his deep black skin combined with the steady beat of his heart that always made her calm. Looking at him, her sepia colored eyes watched his face as if looking for the same uneasiness that she was feeling. Zuri concluded that he could not as he pressed his lips against her forehead. However, the earth could feel it too as the vine began to gently wrap itself up and around her leg. Pulling against her leg carefully reached down and caress the vine feeling it throb, she offered her warmth until the vine steadied itself.

“Even when I sleep, Don’t go then,” Zuri spoke before laying herself back down across his lap, resting her head on her hands. A chuckle got caught in his throat, as always she knew him far too well. He had been trying to hide certain details from her, and she could tell. She knew from his reactions in the morning that he had been scouting and fighting as the vine that wrapped itself around his neck would be swollen with his blood, signaling that he had to tap into the ancestors to protect their Shola.

“My flower- I have to protect you.” He answered after some hesitation which was clearly him processing the information he knew and if he wanted to truly inform Zuri of it. At least at the moment, he figured it was better to not bring it up. Closing his eyes, he began to debate within himself and his kneph. He didn’t want Zuri to feel as if she was losing her mind or that she was just irrational. However, the information was hard for anyone to swollen. Especially as the problem was coming from the inside.

“We will see. But I cannot take you everywhere. I mean I could carry you over my shoulders like vine fruit, but our fruit is far too large now for that to be comfortable for either of us.” he carefully squeezed her thigh before chuckling at his own cleverness.

“We should go home soon. Maybe we can return before father notices our absence.” Zuri didn’t acknowledge his fruit comment with her words but rather her actions as she took his hand from her thigh and placed against her belly that carried her strong child. She had already met him in her dreams, she had seen his face and how he would have his father’s deep eyes and her wide nose. She had already her boy who was already so strong and brought her nothing but joy. She never kept these dreams to herself. No matter what was the condition of Jahi’s sleep, she would immediately wake him and begin to explain it all to him which he would listen with an open heart until his eyes began to close which then he would mumble in his deep voice that maybe if Zuri lets him sleep in those moments, he will meet him too. Jahi wasn’t wrong about this as sure enough one night he dreamed of fishing with a boy who had his Zuri’s wide eyes that saw the world so genuinely and a smile that somehow was a perfect mix of theirs.

It was that dream that made Jahi so adamant about protecting Shola with his all even if it means tapping into the ancestors as long as they were willing. The effect it had on his body, however, was becoming noticeable as he found himself becoming more and more exhausted. Nodding with her words, he patted her belly carefully. “Walking is tiring for feet. Reward me with fish as soon as we arrive.” She sat up slowly and steady careful of her recent change in gravity. Jahi stabilized her through her actions. Only after she was settled, he stood up and offered his hands before chuckling at her sour expression, “Two fish just for you.” Saying the magic phrase, she took his hands and braced her into the ground, enjoying the feeling of the wet soil that slipped in between her toes. “All that fish is going to make him superior in strategizing,” she chimed once she was up on her feet. “Perhaps. Or I’ll just be continuously kissing a mouth of fish.” he taunted looking at over his shoulder once before his eyes landed on hers. Her eyes were as soft as honey as their eyes met, how silly was the feeling that consumes her. Taking his hand, their fingers melted against each other as he squeezed her hand before bringing it up to his mouth and planting a single kiss on it before they made their journey back home.

The forgotten vine that had once attached itself to Zuri for her warmth began to tightly swirl as the flowers of it began to close their petals inward as they recognized the path that her fate was leading her down. The tree branches sunk as the information finally reached their center.

[tigger8900]

Who Fears Death, by Nnedi Okorafor

⭐⭐⭐⭐

In a distant-future Africa, after an unspecified apocalypse, Onyesonwu is the daughter of an Okeke woman, conceived through rape by a man of the Nuru, the tribe that enslaved the Okeke. This made her Ewu, a mixed-race child marked by a distinctive appearance and rejected by both sides of her heritage. While her mother had fled the genocidal violence that consumed her homeland, Onyesonwu finds herself still under threat from her father, a powerful sorcerer. Armed with magic of her own, a band of allies, and an old prophecy, she sets out west to confront him.

I don't want to say that I enjoyed this book, because I didn't. The content warnings aren't a joke, and I encourage you to check a list. But I am glad I read the book, especially after also reading the afterword which pointed me to the real-world atrocity that inspired the Ewu. If it had come entirely from the author's mind it would have been too much, but of course it was based in reality, because humans never stop finding new ways to be monstrously cruel to each other.

The thing I liked the most about it was diving into the magic systems(yes, plural - there's the more commonplace juju, and also the sorcery that the main character learns to wield), particularly that they were explained enough to give me the flavor without being explained to death. I also loved the almost-meta themes surrounding destiny and agency, and the ending of the book was perfect(fight me). Something else I appreciated was that the characters were allowed to be human, with all the flaws, tempers and mistakes that come along with that.

The main thing I didn't like was how much sex and relationship drama was in the story. Once they were adults, it seemed like every chapter someone was having intercourse with someone else and a third person was being salty about it. Realistic? Yes, but not my cup of tea. Also, the way the novel revolved around pregnancy was a bit squick for me, though I'm aware this one is a me problem. Nothing in this point seemed out of character, it just very much wasn't for me. The other criticism I have is that the book was extremely gender binary, which isn't too surprising for a book published in 2010.

As a side note, I spent the last several years convinced that I'd once picked up this book, began to read it, then DNFed it with the intent to pick it up again at a later date. However, upon starting to read, I discovered that the book I was remembering was not this book. I believe it may have been the prequel published in 2015, The Book of Phoenix, but without having it in front of me I'm not sure. I'm not okay with this evidence of how fallible memory is!

[fletchphoenix]

The Calm After The Storm

Hey! so this is for Varigo Week 2020! Wooo! Day 1 - Cozy / Soft

I thought ‘why not start it where it all began for me?’ so boom! A small snippet of life for the boys after the coffee shop au! Hope you all enjoy!

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  Mornings like these made it difficult for Varian to want to get out of bed and leave his boyfriend for his classes. It honestly wasn’t fair how Hugo’s arms wrapped around his waist and held him in a cozy embrace as the seconds kept on ticking by the longer he waited, his breath ghosting against the back of Varian’s neck in his deep sleep. It seemed like years since they’d met in that coffee shop in the winter, christmas relentlessly edging closer each day, but he’d met Hugo and they’d spent it together in perfect bliss.

  Memories of dates and almost kisses flooded his thoughts as he shuffled further back into the warmth of his boyfriend to combat the coldness of the room. They really had been through a lot, huh? His favourite date by far was the ice skating - even though it had been a horrible night, for that one moment where it was just them, it was perfect. They twirled and danced over the rink without a care in the world as Hugo guided them in their own secret routine that outsiders didn’t notice - hands holding hands and fingers intertwined. 

  Also when they snuck out, streetlights and christmas decorations being their only company as they laughed and joked on the way to the park where Hugo presented him with his gift - the glowing necklace. Varian’s hand slid from its place on top of Hugo’s to play with the small vial still around his neck, it illuminating with a small shake. It really was beautiful. And when they got their tattoos, his eyes travelled now from the vial to the beaker on his right wrist that Irene had done for them oh so kindly as a gift for his twentieth birthday and Hugo’s small test tube on his left wrist peeked out slightly from under the covers. Wow. 

  Hugo had always been there to soothe him from his nightmares too, playing with his hair and placing gentle kisses to his forehead as he attempted to calm down. Like the night before trouble came, and they’d cuddled up with hot cocoa and snacks on a makeshift bed on the sofa to watch one of his dramatic teen movies to calm down. They’d fallen asleep in each other’s arms that night, his head on Hugo’s chest and legs tangled in their slightly awkward position, but neither cared. It was them and they were happy. 

  And then there was his mother returning. Of course she hadn’t stayed long, but in the short time she was here, all hell broke loose between them all. Hell, he’d even broken up with Hugo! What was he even thinking? Even he himself wasn’t sure - he was just so angry and confused and betrayed, because his Hugo wouldn’t do that and he just let himself believe Ulla. He remembered the heartache on Hugo’s face as he’d screamed at him - the way he was clearly trying not to cry as he ran out of the apartment. Varian had wanted to go after him and pull him into an embrace, to kiss and wipe each one of those heart wrenching tears away, but he just couldn’t. Not with Ulla there.

 But that was behind them now. All that mattered was them cuddling under the bedsheets in their room - even though Varian knew he’d have to get up soon anyway. 

  Varian wanted to shuffle out of Hugo’s grasp. To head out of bed while the other man was still soundly asleep and get changed and ready for college before Hugo tried to convince him to stay for the day and just call in sick, however something stopped him. He wasn’t sure he even wanted to leave today. He wanted Hugo to keep him in bed all day where they could cuddle with the bitter winds outside that seeped through due to the apartment’s shitty insulation and even worse heating units - it hardly even worked most of the time.

  A groan left Varian’s lips as he turned to face his still-sleeping boyfriend, his blonde fringe barely covering the scar running through his right eyebrow and the slight tilt of his lip making it look like he was smiling in his sleep. He reached out - slowly, carefully - to push the fringe aside and tuck in behind the other’s ear. He always looked so at peace sleeping. It was adorable. He’d missed this during their break. Sighing, he pushed himself into sitting up, a slight smile creeping onto his face as his legs swung over the edge of the bed to rest on the blue carpet of his floor, a familiar heat moving behind him and wrapping his arms around his waist again.

  “Yknow you could always just stay at home.” Hugo’s husky voice sounded absolutely heavenly at the moment - that alone making him want to sink back into the covers and fall into a sleep again. But no, he couldn’t just give up that easily. Not when it’s Hugo.

  “Mmm...I could, couldn’t I.” he muttered, leaning back into his boyfriend who placed a kiss to his shoulder that made his stomach melt and heart soar. God, he loved Hugo so much when he was being soft and affectionate. Ruddiger bounded into his lap and curled up, purring and promptly falling asleep. Ah. 

  “Well, the fat bastard has decided you’re staying. So, will you relent to the Lord and Saviour Ruddiger Ruddiger’s laws or will you suffer a whole day of your son ignoring you?” Hugo questioned, and Varian could hear the smirk on his face. Sure, Nuru would probably scold him for not showing up, as would Isla and Eugene, but...with Ruddiger making his rules and Hugo being such a tempting person, how could he leave his two favourite fellas at home? That would be unjust torture!

  “Alright, almighty cat lord. You’ve convinced me.” Varian relented with a grin as he flopped back into bed, Hugo moving to lay down as well and pull his boyfriend into another tight embrace as they did so. “But we’re gonna have to think of another illness to let me off. So what will it be? The flu?”

  “I’m thinking something more along the lines of...I don’t want to leave my extremely attractive and loving boyfriend syndrome. Absolutely killer disease. Took the life of my friend Zander. Very tragic.” Hugo commented sleepily, his lips ghosting on the back of Varian’s neck, sending little tingles down his spine and making him shiver all over. 

  “Sounds like the perfect excuse.” He murmured back. “Hey Hugh..I love you.” Varian whispered as he slowly shut his eyes, Hugo merely making a small groan of agreement to Varian’s confession as they both drifted to sleep once again, deciding to neglect all their responsibility for the day and just...live in the moment.

  Thank god for that coffee shop.