#quaestor valdemar x mc

[soullessseraphim]

For our souls

[sxftkxssxs]

I love your writing when it comes to the arcana! We’ve seen the main 6 with a winged mc- but what about the courtiers? (Idk how specific we can get with the asks so you can ignore this next part) and if winged mc would occasionally make bird noises- like squawking or chirping depending.

you can absolutely get specific! I love hearing everyone's ideas and how they expand on the original!! I'm very glad you like my writing!

Courtiers with a Winged!MC

Volta

Resident Sweetheart thinks your wings are absolutely gorgeous!

She'd love to look closer one of these days but hey-! Was that food she saw over there?

Volta admires from afar for the most part, if you can get her curiosity to get the better of her for a moment she'll willingly investigate with your permission!

She doesn't have the patience to run her hands through your feathers though, you might wanna find someone else for that job.

If you give her one of your feathers she's immediately tearing up, promising to keep it safe for you.

She probably ends up wearing it somewhere or hiding it in a spot she specifically picked out for it.

She doesn't mind if you chirp or squawk! She might think there's a lose bird and get excited at first but she gets used to it.

Valerius

Oh, is he enamored.

He LOVES your wings. He thinks that they're the epitome of beauty.

If you have feathers and allow him to run his fingers through them he'll be completely at peace. Can you blame him? Pretty and soft things are too good to pass up.

Gods forbid if you actually give him a feather to keep. He'll accessorize the hell out of that! Wearing it in his hair, a necklace, you name it.

If your wings are more leathery he still thinks they're beautiful! He'd still be content to brush his fingers on them every once in a while.

Purely my self indulgence coming through but I believe he'd love to help you care for your wings. He might be more into it than you.

Valerius has the best products, ushering you to the baths as soon as they arrive. In his mind, helping you with your wings in the baths is like helping someone wash their hair. Its intimate and peaceful. He might tear up the first time.

Valerius actually loves the occasional chirp, but do not squawk near him. He can try to be nice all he wants but that noise hurts his ears and is quite unpleasant to say the least.

Vlastomil

He thinks they're beautiful! Even though they represent almost the exact opposite of his gorgeous worms..

With Vlastomil he's much more content to admire with more distance than the others. Though if you insist he might think about a more close up investigation.

He'll help you with your wings if you ask him to, thought he's not as knowledgeable as Valerius so you might have to consult him beforehand.

Vulgora

They think it is absolutely BADASS!

Vulgora thinks leather wings are cooler, even if there isn't a huge difference in how they work. They'd still love them if you had feathered wings.

If you can actually fly with your wings they'll get even more excited. They'll suggest "dodging practice" and for your safety say no.

They'd be perplexed if you wanted them to brush through your feathers or just simply feel your wings. Gentle touch is absolutely foreign with Vulgora. They'll have to ease into it honestly.

Vlademar

They have questions, which is the only warning you'll get.

How do they bend? Are they identical to bird wings? Can you actually fly with them? How easily do they break?

At first you'll likely have to deal with them somewhat gently bending your wings, feeling around them, and if you have them, even occasionally leaving with some of your feathers.

When they do take some feathers they put them in a jar, yes, they have a jar. But hey! At least its your own jar?

Eventually they'll get bored of fully examining you...that is until you start chirping or squawking. That gets them interested all over again.

They aren't bothered, quite the opposite. They want to know if the noises are natural and if so, why? It'll be a long few nights for you I fear..

[reneesghostinthelivingroom]

Quaestor Valdemar Masterlist

Doctor 1890

-when working on a project, Valdemar and reader spend many hours together.

(reader's choice.)

[angeledeggs]

Would you write something about MC being railed by the Courtiers in their demon form (and how we convince them to rail us in the first place) Thank Chu!!

I would 😂 thanks for the request! <3

Valerius🍷:

Probs a bit concerned for you at first, I mean... You're really into that?

Well, he's not shaming. After all, he is a bit charmed by the fact that you're attracted to him at all, even in his demon form.

If he ever realizes you want to get railed in his demon form (or if you tell him), he'll probably have to think about it for awhile.

After all, he doesn't want to accidentally hurt you with his claws or teeth or anything. And he is a bit self conscious of his demon form, anyways.

But he does, admittedly, get more confident when he finally notices the way you look at him in his demon form one day. He gets very.. confident, so to speak. Maybe a bit too confident.

Maybe just confident enough to push you onto the counter and bust your back out.

Or not. Who knows. He probably just keeps drinking his wine and chilling, like always. But if you keep looking at him like that-- he is going to go insane.

After a few more moments of you just looking at him in such a way, he dosent need convincing in the slightest. He would kill to get you under him at this point.

And that's exactly what he does.

Vlastomil🐛:

Probably extremely oblivious about it and will stay that way unless you come out and say it. And when you do (or if he figures it out on his own, then in that case, props to him.) he is absolutely SHOOK.

I mean, he's just giving you his dead stare and is like, "pardon me?". He already doesn't think of himself as quite desirable even in his human form cause of his age but like him in--

,,his demon form??

He doesn't know whether to be horrified or aroused.

Probably a bit of both, really.

He keeps trying to confirm it, like, "are you sure, my love?? you've seen me in my demon form, yes? I literally get covered in slime and grow a few feet taller---"

And when it finally sinks in that, oh, you really are into it, he gets much too confident about it. It's like a switch has been flipped or something, cuz he's immediately teasing you and getting you worked up just cause he knows now that you're into it.

Like Valerius, he dosent need much convincing to completely wreck you until the sun falls and rises, I mean, if you want it so bad, who is he to deny you?

Valdemar💉:

They're practically always in their demon form (or at least pretty close to it) so don't think that they don't happen to notice the way your gaze lingers on them.

Of course they'd love to get the chance to give you what you need, but they don't want to make it that easy for you.

After all, what good is a reward without a little work?

But you don't really say anything about it. But Valdemar knows that you want them. And so they finally decide to take matters into their own hands.

They put you to work in their dungeons for hours, knowing you'll do it for them. They feel a bit bad when it's dark and you're just finishing up, so they grab you by the shoulders and lead you away from the work.

They savor the silence before they speak, their body shaking slightly before they lean down and whisper to you. "May I?"

In the end, they don't need much convincing when you're there in front of them, looking so easy to make a delicious mess out of.

Volta🍰:

Like Vlastomil, she's probably going to not even notice that you're attracted to her demon form for a while.

Like, a while.

And then one day, she just realizes it right when you were about to tell her and she is... Shocked, for lack of a better term.

She dosent quite like the way she looks in her demon form. She dosent have much control over it though and while the pain stopped long ago, she knows the bones that snap out of her skin and the melting bits of her flesh might not be that attractive.

But you like it? You think it's hot?

She's... Flattered, really.

Probably doesn't need too much convincing. Like, as long as you reassure her that her sharp bones probably won't poke you and that you don't mind the melty bits of her skin, she is completely down to fuck you.

She kind of thinks you deserve it, anyway, for being so cute.

Vulgora⚔️:

Knows that you think their demon form is hot, but they won't do a damn thing unless you say it.

After all, they want to hear you say it.

They will definitely act smug when you finally say it. If you're very shy and just insinuate it, they'll take that too. Their endgame is to give you what you want, anyways

They definitely don't need an ego boost with how self confident they are, but it definitely gives them one anyway knowing that you think their demon form is hot.

Oh, but they're not gonna just come out and fuck you without you asking them to.

And even if you do, they'll be all sly about it, like, "ohh, i don't know, should i?" And they'll only stop when they see you getting frustrated.

They're giving you what you want in the end when they toss you on the bed and their bones snap into much taller, unnatural forms.

They just needed you to convince them, really.

(or not).

❀

[macabremayhem]

"What do you know about sex, Quaestor?"

MC asks playfully, trying to look into Valdemar's eyes. For a few seconds Valdemar does not seem to notice. They were engrossed in a brand new anatomy atlas.

"Sex, or Sextans is the equatorial constellation. Located between Leo and Hydra."

Valdemar finally answered without taking their eyes off the page. Then added, stubbornly correcting another article right in the tome,

"And I'm not insisting that you have to feel the same way, but I am definitely insisting."

/sorry not sorry, made just for fun/

[greyspirehollow]

They will return with more disturbing facts ! [Request]

request by @plushtoad

Pairing : Quaestor Valdemar x Liam (my mc) - Platonic ! Fandom : The Arcana visual novel Warnings : disturbing facts? (like two, because I'm too lazy to do research)

Summary : How does one try to get closer to an unhinged surgeon? Try and be creepy yourself !

It had started during the years of the Red Plague. Liam had just become Julian's apprentice, and he'd been warned about Valdemar multiple times.

But that didn't stop the necromancer from wanting to be friends with them (or at least get them to warm up to him somewhat). And so, like any kid that is told 'don't do that', he did exactly that.

Although he took his time... He'd observe from afar, and take mental notes during each interaction he'd have with them ; their mannerisms, what they'd talk about, etc, etc... And the plan in his head seemingly started taking shape, and he couldn't help a mischievous smile from playing on his lips (even if it was hidden by his plague mask).

One day, he spotted Valdemar working on one of their corpses -as usual-, and he stood in the doorway for a moment. Liam then approached them, standing on the opposite side of the operation table. They didn't look up from the body. "Yes?" they inquired nonchalantly. Liam stayed silent for a few seconds, then just -

"Did you know, according to cannibals, the tastiest part of the human body is the palm of the hand?"

silence. They blinked, looking up at him, trying to comprehend just why Liam had just said that. Had he come here simply... for that? Their brows were subtly furrowed, and Liam stood there in the uncomfortable silence for probably a hot minute. However, he soon dashed off ; "Until we meet again !" accompanied his escape. Valdemar watched him go, a little more confused. After standing in silence for a hot minute themselves, they went back to the corpse with a little shrug "well, that's nice to know...."

Unbeknownst to Liam, he'd soon get a taste of his own medicine... The following day, he was getting done with a patient's diagnosis under Julian's supervision, when the plague doctor went to order files in his office. The necromancer was left alone for a few minutes ; but that was enough. He felt someone's breath right at his ear and stiffened. "Did you know, it's actually your bone marrow that fabricates your blood cells..." Liam's mouth opened in a silent gasp, as Valdemar's words echoed in his brain "nooo..." he whispered, drawing a chuckle out of the demon "until we meet again~" they said ; "you can't just do that !! you can't- come back here!!" before leaving the poor magician all too aware of his bones, despite his protests.

From then on, it became a casual inside joke between the two of them, as they tried to out-creep the other (even though Valdemar constantly won), much to Julian's despair. But Liam's plan had worked, in the end : Valdemar had warmed up to him.

Three years later, when they saw him quite literally come back from the dead only to investigate on Dr. 069's possible involvement in Lucio's murder they were... Surprised. And ready to investigate. They'd approach him while he was in the library, and well, he hadn't seen them coming.

"...did you know" they started, making him jump and turn around. There was a brief bit of silence before they went on "...that according to cannibals, the tastiest.." "...the tastiest part of the human body is the palm of the hand" the necromancer finished, a flicker of recognition flashing in his eyes he smiled and chuckled "I have a feeling we're not exactly strangers, Quas... Quaster..." ; "Quaestor Valdemar" they confirmed, nodding, the smile on the necromancer's face widening. Liam chuckled and shook his head "you gave me a real scare ! I thought you were about to skin me alive ! -That can be arranged -No don't-"

Even if Liam didn't remember the whole context of their "friendship", they had to admit, he wasn't exactly a nuisance.

[glamourgirl777]

Valdemars reaction to their significant other getting possessed by another/lesser demon?? 👀

(Sorry I've been so inactive there is so much shit going on atm 💀)

Feel free to request any other hcs!!

Valdemar's reaction to their s/o being possessed by a lesser demon.

I feel like valdemar would notice it VERY quickly

They are so observant that they would instantly know something is off.

I think that their first course of action would be to slip in a few random questions into a conversation just to see if their theory is right.

When proven correct

They would sit said demon/you down and ask them to leave with their signature scary smile and wide eyes.

And if that didn't work

then you best believe that valdemar would've definitely already looked into exorcisms.

Being a demon themselves they'd enlist the help of a preist to do it for them if not scaring them into it.

With the demon possessing their s/o knowing that they know valdemar would either be very careful in excectuing the exorcism or they would just slam you on their vivisection table and get to work.

When the demon would've finally leaving their beloved they would definitely start placing cloaking spells onto their s/o whenever there out of their sights.

(Sorry this is so short lmao)

[needybabytrashbeans]

Quaestor Valdemar x Bismuth (OC) - The Feeling's Mutual

-

Commission by @silversnape ! Forgot to post and got sick so it's only just now getting posted but glad you enjoyed it fren! :) If anyone else wants to commission my rules are on my page and my DMS are definitely open to it!

Word count: 6,888

Genre: Innocent, fluffy, maybe a lil gorey or horror induced

Enjoy!

-

There's a graveyard located deep in the forest. Of course it was best to keep it from the palace grounds, for it was a dark little reminder of the past in Versuvia that was hidden amongst overgrown foliage. Quaestor Valdemar hadn't spoken much on it, what was there to say anyway? The land was full to the brim with the dead, headstones far out of reach. Bismuth, the apprentice to the physician, had grown a curiosity for it though it wasn't surprising for her to do so with her because of her natural sense of curiosity. Even if Valdemar hadn't said anything about it themselves the woman had been reading, there weren't many stories on the ancient land but she was able to find a few things.

To start of the land was filled with the dead as stated before, those who lost their lives to the great red plague that ruled over the lands. Bismuth had heard the tales of it from various mouths, people who had lost loved ones during those times or who were descendants of such and even more from Valdemar themselves who seemed to…enjoy talking about such a dark time. That wasn't new though of course it's not like the Quaestor grew eager to talk about anything else but the death toll that occurred back then.

Even so, they could talk about the plague all day she was sure but still…they hadn't said anything on the graveyard itself.

Valdemar suddenly snaps their fingers on front of bright eyes, Bismuth blinks at the action. She had zoned out, the graveyard has been on her mind for a while now. Probably more than it should be. Natural curiosity of a cat, hopefully it wouldn't get her killed.

"Assistant? Bismuth?…Are you even listening?" They question, voice smooth but there's some firmness and a light sigh that leaves them as they eye her, hovering close to her as if examining her gaze. The hand in her face is covered in sticky blood, they lower it to grab a rag that sits beside them, freeing their other hand from the corpse in front of them laying on the table. A man who had died of some sort of liver damage…Valdemar wipes their gloves clean before turning and looking at her once more, eyebrows furrowing a little.

"I'll say it again. Did you even hear a thing I said? How are you supposed to take notes when you can't even focus on what I'm saying?" They huff lightly but it's clear that their tone with her isn't as harsh and cold as it could be, one could say that they were rather nice to her compared to many others. Usually actions like this would set them off, make them glare and tsk in annoyance but they almost seem to have an uncharacteristic…patience with her.

"Mind informing me of whatever could be on your mind at a time like this? Weren't you the one who suggested helping me tonight?" They inquired as they set the now bloody cloth back to the side before crossing their arms over their back. Bismuth looks up at them with surprise before slowly looking down at her feet, heart pumping in her chest just having them look at her. As curious as she was for the graveyard she had to avoid their gaze for a moment for she might end up flushing. She was infatuated with the other, whether they knew or not and usually a scenario where they were focus on her was like a dream but right now it seemed like she was before scolded which put a light frown on her lips.

She looks from her shoes and uniform back to the dead man on the table, his skin is pale as his torso lays wide open for all to see. There's tools on the side, a surgical knife, tweasers, a scalpel… her gaze stays on her for a moment before she looks back up at her superior who seems to still be waiting patiently for a reply, lightly lifting a brow.

"I've…been thinking about the graveyard in the forest." She finally admits slower than she usually would and Valdemar looks at her in slight suspension as she starts that sentence off just for their eyes to widen as she finishes. It's almost as if they didn't expect that answer from her, at all, and maybe they didn't but why did they almost seem spooked by her words? It's silent for a moment, unexpectedly silent, and Bismuth can't help but feel herself grow anxious. She must've said something wrong. There's a moment where she begins to regret saying anything but it's not like the woman would hold information from them if they asked because she followed them and admired them greatly. There was no way she could lie so easily to them. However, their silence makes her feel like she shouldn't have opened her mouth at all. She can feel herself begin to shake a little, the idea of them being angry getting to her for that was just not something she could handle.

She jumps when a gloved hand seems to snake its way under her chin. She twitched at the touch but Valdemar doesn't take that as a reason to pull away as they carefully cup her chin, firm but not enough to bruise or cause pain.

"Why would something like that be on your mind? How did you even find out about that place? No.." they speak, eerily persistent before shaking their head a little as if that wasn't the way they seen themselves starting their response.

"That place is not safe. Thinking about it like you are must mean you're curious in it…I don't know what that brain of yours is thinking but you don't plan to go find it for yourself do you?" They contested. They were in her face now, still holding her chin but leaned in close. Tone hard and gaze unyielding as they looked at her and made her look at them. Their hand pressed slightly harder as her eyes widened before her lip started to quiver a little, it didn't hurt it's not like they were digging their nails in or pressed harshly on her cheeks, they're hold was firm but gentle almost like leading a small animal to look and focus on them.

Bismuth could feel her eyes watering, she couldn't help but feel troubled or that she was being trouble for them. She suddenly felt a little bad within herself, over thinking. She did come to help them because that's what she loved, being under them and around them…close enough to touch them but now they were upset with her, looking at her with such a gaze even if their hand felt surprisingly warmer than they usually were on her cheeks.

Valdemar's gaze seems to soften even just a little, they make a motion of shaking her head softly from side to side. It lightens the mood even just a little, especially when they push up her cheeks and make her pout and pucker her lips. They huff softly before letting her free a second after.

"I'm not angry with you Bismuth, just don't go out there and that is a warning." They advised while turning away from her to walk over to a counter.

"I..heard about it at the market. I was just wondering and all. When we…work on things together like the bodies of the living it's only natural for me to wonder where they go when we're done with them. You…don't let me come with you when you take them away." She spoke feebly, at the time of doing so the Quaestor had picked up a body bag. It was black, easy to be ignored or confused for a shadow if spotted in the woods. She watched them and their tall lean figure as they did so and noticed when they seemed to pause at her words, calculating them in their brilliant brain.

"You…want to come with me?" They asked as if perplexed and she nodded almost as if shy.

"Yes." She confirms politely.

They seem to think about it, brows knitting together a little as if thinking of the consequences of this action if they agreed. She has been working with them for a while now, long and diligently too… She always did what she was told with no talk back and little failure, enough so that Valdemar themselves had placed a certain level of importance on her. They eventually breathe in deep through their nose and out through their mouth, collecting themselves and their various thoughts before walking over to the lifeless body and the woman.

"Fine, I feel as though I can trust you… just don't touch anything and don't venture off. Do you understand Bismuth?" They spoke carefully as they pulled open the body bag waiting for her response even though they were positive that they already knew what she would say. As they led the body into the bag and eventually zipped it up they glanced at her from the corner of their eyes to see…a sparkle could be found in those dark eyes of hers.

With eyes like hers they could be seen as nothing but plain to some though it was easy to see… that not many people held eyes like her's. Sometimes they'd twinkle when they called her name, even more so when she had earned some praise. Inky blackness seemed like a spiraling galaxy at times, at least when Valdemar was in the picture.

They looked away after a moment, moving their hands to grasp the body bag and haul the contents over their shoulder. Honestly, for how lean they were, they were quite strong…

"Y-yes!" She answered, a look of determination now forming on that cute little face of hers as she agreed to their terms.

"Well come on. Don't get lost." They emphasized before turning away and leading the way to the dungeons exit. She eagerly followed like a puppy and they found themselves chuckling softly at it, how she had gone from that pout from earlier to such a sweet smile.

It was a bit of a walk to get there but with each step they made Bismuth could feel the energy that flowed from the forest. It was like a tingle running over her skin or an unintelligible whisper in her ears. She had grown rather anxious during their little adventure together, even going far enough to be right on Valdemar's heels though they didn't seem to mind. At least she was staying by their side like they told her to.

The full moon was out, the smell of dirt and rain laced the air. From Valdemar's perspective they walked with a sternness, they knew where they were going unlike their subordinate. Their walk hadn't contained much talking at first, mostly the crunches of leaves under their feet or the screeching of crickets took up the silence. It was only when they weren't too far when Valdemar eventually spoke, breaking the silence but not without the woman walking beside them jumping as if shocked to hear of them after all this time. Valdemar grinned, a toothy grin that was just a bit wider than usual as if they found it funny to see the woman practically shaking in her boots.

"Apologies, I didn't mean to spook you." They hummed looking down at her before looking ahead again, eyes glowing bright in the darkness. In their free hand they held a lantern to help the woman beside them, just because they could see in the conditions of the night didn't mean that she could as well.

"I just wanted to say that for someone who was so curious you're shaking like a leaf. One would one I dragged you out here if you keep scrunching your eyebrows and looking around like that." They pointed out but there was a playful edge to their tone as if trying to help the woman calm down. It seemed to work as she turned her head to them quickly, cheeks brightly flushing at their teasing. When her mouth fell open as if to say something back they lifted a brow, smug smirk on their lips.

"Please don't tease me Quaestor…" she huffs softly turning her gaze away but not without them noticing the light flush on her cheeks. They chuckled but left her be for the time being.

It's a bit chilly out tonight, nothing that would stop the Quaestor themselves but Bismuth rubbed at her arms for more warmth. Valdemar led the way, their tall figure finding a trail and walking along it. The gates of the graveyard were rusted, the doors stuck in place and wide open almost as if welcoming them but Bismuth shivered just looking at it. It wasn't as if she didn't expect it to be somewhat like this but the eerie feeling in the air felt too heavy even with someone like the Quaestor being there to guide her.

Her stomach churned as her onyx gaze trailed over the land, headstones poking out for what seemed to be far far away as if there wasn't an ending. She briefly covered her eyes, mind getting jumbled for a moment as she tried to calm her nerves but then the sound of metal clinging against metal had made her jerk. Snapping out of her thoughts. Her gaze moved to Valdemar who had sat the lantern down for a moment, a shovel now in their free hand which had been leaning against the rusted gate with one other.

"Are you okay assistant?" They asked but their tone was less playful than before as they almost seemed to look at her…in worry. She flushed at the expression, that frown pulled at their lips felt homey. Bismuth nods quickly this time, waving a hand dismissely while still holding herself with the other.

"I-im fine. Just a bit cold out here tonight considering how warm it was earlier." She replied now lightly shrugging. Valdemar hummed at the reply but eventually nodded before looking down at the lantern next to their foot.

"Look, come here. The sooner we get this done the sooner we'll be able to return to the palace. The rain must've caused a cold front. Take the lantern and follow me, you'll be the light." They instructed and obediently the woman approached and carefully plucked the lantern off the ground. They nodded and from there on continued by passing through the fence.

There was a heavy fog in the graveyard, the heads of tombs only became harder and harder to recognize as the two of them went deeper and the crickets who chirped so loudly before had suddenly fallen silent. Valdemar walked with ease and poise, they've been across these lands many times before that at first they didn't realize Bismuth had fallen a bit behind. For her, these lands almost seemed like anything could jump out and grab her at any given moment. She trembled now but not because of the cool weather this time.

"Bismuth?" Their voice rang out through the still air. She quickly turned, they were probably about ten or so paces in front of her now, standing out in the field of fog and gravestones. Their magenta eyes looked at her, a slight bit of confusion could be found in their features.

"Are you sure something isn't the matter?" They called out. Just hearing their voice calmed her, surprisingly like a guide through the dark. She came to the conclusion that she didn't like it here as much as she previously thought she would, previously her curiosity of the place had come from the lack of general knowledge on it. Granted graveyards…weren't her favorite though so it should have been expected. Originally she planned to come in the early hours of the day, where the sun could keep her peace of mind safe but the Quaestor had caught her so quickly. So then, when they allowed her to come she practically leapt at the chance to spend more time with them. She hardly thought about her decision at first but once they entered the forest it felt like her heart constricted in her chest and that something…was watching.

She shook her head though even as her heart was racing in her chest and her stomach was churning a bit.

"N-no, just thought I heard something…" she says softly, running her free hand through her long raven hair as she caught up for them and they waited up until she was standing beside them again.

"Something…like what?" They persisted lightly but she didn't mind as they turned forward again and continued walking. From this distance and with this pace of step Bismuth could notice a few things about her superior. She tended to do so often, just a few days ago she noticed they had freckles. A few could be spotted on the space of their neck that didn't get wrapped but most were over their cheeks. She'd grown to like them, quite a bit actually. Right now she was picking up on their scent, a blush coming to her cheeks as her gaze fell to her walking feet.

They smelled of something sweet and gentle like lavender and then something more earthy and homey like sandalwood and it was hard not to notice, it was some of her favorite smells.

"It feels like we're being watched..so, I didn't necessarily hear anything." She spilled without them having to push too hard. They hummed at the response, a little frown seemed to dust their lips for a moment but then they grinned widely, sharp teeth glistening in the moonlight. It was as if they were proud of something.

"Well yes, that would only make sense. We are at a graveyard after all. I feel them as well but they know not to approach me so as long as you keep up you won't be snatched into the void between life and death." They informed, their words chilling.

This graveyard hosted the bodies of those that passed away during the plague, their spirits watched from a distance but with hunger in their eyes just being near a walking, breathing, person. Her flesh reminded them or theirs before they plague tore it off them or melted it away. Now they looked like ghouls, the energy that they carried was heavy. Heavier than anything else Bismuth had ever felt before and to be honest, their phrasing did nothing to ease her this time.

Her face didn't match theirs, she didn't have a wide grin on her lips like they had in theirs. She nodded though, surely they didn't mean too much harm by saying that right?

"I wouldn't let anything happen to you." They spoke lastly as they moved off the pavement to venture into the grass into an open plot. There was already a headstone in the dirt but nothing was on it as Valdemar knelt down to slide the body bag from their shoulder to the ground to rest in the grass. Bismuth had fallen silent, the churning in her stomach had turned back into a wild fluttering.

"Right…" she manages to say softly as she pets her warm cheeks with her free hand. They don't respond immediately this time, taking the shovel in their hands now. She hovers close but they wave her back a little.

"Hold the light." The ordered calmly and she nodded. As they started digging she couldn't help but look around the graveyard again, surveying the area. She couldn't see any faces, not any ghoul like creatures but she could…feel them. A heavy shiver ran up her spine for a split moment. She still felt sick even with them being near, felt as if at any time she'd feel someone breathing down her neck tickling the strands of hair there. She shifted on her feet as the Quaestor kept digging, they were a little over a foot deep now, eyes focused on the goal. She watched as they went further and by the time that they dug enough for just their headdress to be seeable Bismuth was shivering again.

Her dark eyes glanced around again, first time quickly, darting from corner to corner now, checking her surroundings continuously but being sloppy with the task as well since she feared that she'd actually see something this time. It was when her eyes looked at the body bag next to the large hole that she froze. For the splittest of moments it seemed like it had moved and she squeaked and jumped at the very thought. She was spooked, the longer she stood here with this light the more she felt like she was drawing moths in. They circled her, the sound of fluttering wings in her ears loud and overstimulating.

"What is it now Bismuth?" Valdemar called out again, this time peeking their head up from the hole to look at the woman. If it wasn't the fact that the woman was practically scared shitless she probably would have found their position a little humorous for it distantly reminded her of a gopher sticking its head out of the dirt. No, she trembled and upon seeing her Valdemar lifted a brow. Surely it was her own fear at this point, nothing had come for her all night and yet she was this frightened.

"I..uh…" she stuttered and they sighed. If they could guarantee that she was strong enough they'd suggest switching spots. No way that could happen, she'd take too long in that state and it's not like they wanted to give her that much work anyway.

"It won't be too long now if that helps ease you. With how scared you seem I can count on the fact that you'll never come here alone right?" They chuckled while going back to work looking back to the hole as they dug the shovel in again but the woman let out a much smaller laugh, rubbing her arm with her free hand again. This was probably why Valdemar didn't bring her along with them to begin with until today, this seemed like only a place they could thrive in. They didn't seem fearful or nervous at all to be here, they almost seemed to blend right in and that made the woman feel a little embarrassed… She was an adult and yet she shook like a young child right now who was scared the Boogeyman would get her. Maybe she was just overreacting…even if she felt sick to her stomach.

"Yes, I don't think I could be caught dead here." She replied without much thought and for a moment complete silence settled between them before Valdemar snorted, then they let out a roar of laughter. They cackled as if she meant to tell that joke, as if they'd slap their knee at any given time. They curled in on themselves, using the handle of the shovel for support as their wicked laughter filled the air.

Usually people would be unnerved by this but Valdemar had a nice tone of laughter, Bismuth noticed even if she had jerked upon it first coming out. It felt like they hadn't laughed like that in a long time and even if Bismuth was a little confused she felt warm hearing it. Knowing that she was the source of such made her cheeks flush and for a moment she felt a soft smile beginning to form on her lips as they let it all out.

That was until a hand, cold and clammy, slapped over her mouth with harsh pressure. It held an iron grip on her as shock surged through her entire being from the top of her head to the soles of her feet. Suddenly that warmth she felt shattered into an icy feeling of wriggling worms in her gut as the lantern fell from her hand, knocking the lit flame out and enveloping the area in the darkness once more.

When Valdemar eventually calmed themselves they hummed in content.

"Bismuth I didn't know you were a comedian-" they began to praise the little woman but froze when they realized how dark it had gotten so suddenly. Immediately they clambered out of the hole, it was deep enough now anyway. All that was needed was to toss it in and bury it but now something else was on Quaestor Valdemar's mind which seemed far more important than the corpse.

"Bismuth?" They stated louder, firmer, this time before snapping their head in the direction of the lantern that now lay abandoned in the grass. They sneered at the object like it was offensive to their very being…they let their guard down for the slightest of moments and that was apparently just enough. They didn't need to be a rocket scientist to know what had happened.

Their hands were freezing cold as they held her tightly, hands gripping and grasping at her like they'd tear the skin right off her body at any time. Bismuth was in a frenzy, kicking wildly even if none of them seemed to make any actual contact as if she was kicking nothing but air, as if no one was really there but they had to be…their hold was starting to get awfully painful. Tears were leaking from Bismuth's eyes as she looked up at the various faces. The spirits, which she could now see even if she wished she couldn't, had black eyes but nothing like hers which were laced in anguish, their eyes were soulless, empty, and devoid of any purpose or care for her. They wrestled her on the ground as if trying to drag her down to Hell with them.

'Flesh.'

One of their voices stated, eery and chilling to the ear. Raspy and hungry as a hand slid down her warm cheeks, wiping at Bismuth's tears even if more took their place. She snapped her head away, turning it to try and avoid the touch but another, different hand roughly grabbed her chin and turned her back.

'Such…warm skin.'

Another voice echoed, it was hard to tell who it came from but the spirits faces which had previously been devoid of emotions turned into slow, knowing grins. Their teeth were wicked and the lines on their faces seemed abnormal, inhumane, and Bismuth gagged on puke which had built in her. They didn't seem to care, if she choked on her own bile then surely they could take her flesh a lot sooner after she died and proceed to drag her soul into the afterlife with them. They seemed to collectively communicate this between themselves as their grins grew even wider. There were quite a number of them, fifteen or so and counting as spirits seem to curiously leave their graves to see what the ruckus was all about.

It wasn't often that a human like her, or a human of any case, came through this graveyard and being victims of the plague only gave the spirits reasons to have a vendetta. Quaestor Valdemar had been their deaths and for many long years their spirits have been contained in this area where magic of the Quaestor held them in place. However, when the Quaestor approached today and with a cute little human with them at their hip, the spirits decided the best case of repayment for their internal suffering was to take from the lead physician themselves. Which is why when their guard was at its lowest they took her and dragged Bismuth further into the graveyard like a human rag doll.

Bismuth continued to squirm and wrestle them, her clothes getting dirty as she kicked up grass and dirt in her fight. Her clothes were wet with mud. Eventually a cold hand clasped around her ankle making her gasp as one of her last attempts to get away from these people, these creatures,…was taken from her. Hands already held down her wrist against the freezing ground as a spirit sat on her chest, a lady with long inky black hair…much too similar to Bismuth's.

'Lets take her…'

'Drag her back to hell with us…'

'Feed off her flesh and bones…'

'Savor her warm blood…'

The voices spoke as if they were circling and this time Bismuth was permitted to hear the conversation and when she did her eyes widened in absolute fear. They wanted to feed off her, consume her as if she was…prey.

The ghostly woman above Bismuth leaned down, long sharp nails digging deep into Bismuth's wrist, hard enough to make them bleed. Bismuth cried in pain under the hold but the woman continued, leaning close until she slid her tongue out. It was long, gray in color, Bismuth looked at her in wary and when the woman slowly trailed that cold tongue over Bismuth's tear stained cheek the living woman croaked under the hand over her mouth. More tears fell, the woman was tasting her and as much as she wanted to fight and run Bismuth couldn't do anything but stay glued to the ground under their surprising strength. She couldn't even move her hands to perform any form of magic that could save her.

Her thoughts went to Valdemar. She wondered where they were, if they were still laughing at the gravesite even. Her heart twisted in her chest, she was sure they would have never found themselves in this situation. They were strong, something that she didn't see herself as at times and this was definitely one of those times. What if they…were embarrassed by her? If they could see her now, fighting uselessly against a bunch of ghosts with no luck would they laugh at her like they laughed at her joke? A cruel, chilling laugh as if they saw no use in her? This is probably why they didn't trust her enough to bring with them to this place before, this whole time she had been useless and nothing but a nuisance. Surely if she had never come they wouldn't have had to deal with her and could have finished a lot quicker.

And now, she was going to die. At the hands of Quaestor Valdemar's own victims who saught revenge.

Bismuth sobbed, she was scared. Her stomach hurt like it had never down before and when the ghostly woman above her bared her teeth as if to bite Bismuth squeezed her eyes tightly shut.

…Then, the sound of swishing wind filled the air like a whip. It took a moment for Bismuth to realize what happened until screeching cries filled the air and a firm hand grabbed her by the back of her shirt and pulled her back with a heave. She bounced a little at being pulled back, blinked heavily as those tears fell and she tried to make sense of what occurred. It was when she looked up, lifting her head from the ground, that her eyes widened in awe, heart leaping in her throat.

In front of her stood…the Quaestor. Their back was to her, tall and broad as they stood in front of her as if they were…protecting her. In their hand was a weapon, one she's never seen them with before now and her eyes sparkled just seeing it, just being in its presence. It was a scythe, a long beautiful scythe with an ancient looking skull holding the blade together to the staff. They twirled it in their hands with a form of grace she's never seen before with any else and the head of the blade twinkled in the moonlight.

"Bismuth…" Valdemar stated in a calm tone though their voice was also firm. She immediately jumped just hearing it.

That was all though from them as they twisting their right wrist, scythe practically glowing. She clutched her shirt with shaking hands, the screeching had dialed down into growling and snarling except for one spirit, the woman who sat on Bismuth, her head had been severed from her body, lying limp on the ground and slowly turning to dark ash. A few spirits had been cut down, bodies turning into ash, melting away in the wind. Bismuth's heart was racing in her ribcage far too much for her to even say anything without her voice shaking. It was fine though for Valdemar still wasn't done dealing with the rest of the now infuriated ghosts.

"I'll only say it once. Get back in your graves, now, and I won't have to destroy all of you." The Quaestor stated with an eerily smooth tone. A few spirits backed off and hesitated just hearing them, faltering at the weight that those words carried. They sounded a little…angry.

Were they angry for her?

'Tch! As if!' A spirit roared, a man with dark crunchy hair. He and a few others decided to try again and as they bomb rushed the Quaestor Valdemar who narrowed their gaze, sharp fuschia eyes zoned in on their opponents as they rushed forward, and with a reeled back swing they slashed at the incoming borage. The wind produced by the scythe time was enough to slash at the trees even beyond the graveyard. It was seeable too, the slash that is. It was bright, their magic being a vibrant emerald color with specks of lighter greens and onyx's. The trees that were slash fell to the ground with loud, destructive thuds and with them came more screeching as spirits who didn't listen to the Quaestor's words lost their heads much like those before them. The slash had even sliced through rows of graves, shattering them with the impact.

As their bodies crumbled and collapsed the few spirits who had a sense of mind trembled in fear, looking at the Quaestor who stood unyieldingly in front of the woman behind them, before scurrying like a bunch of roaches and rodents back into their graves.

Quaestor Valdemar stood in silence for a moment as Bismuth tried to get on her feet before turning to her. They could be heard taking in a long deep breath through their nose before slowly releasing it from their smooth lips before turning to the woman, scythe dissolving from their hands into inky black, gas like tendrils before disappearing altogether. Their gaze on her seemed unreadable, not like they were easy to read begin but over the time of working by their side even Bismuth had gotten to know some of their expressions. This one however…

She scramble to her feet, wincing at the feeling of the scratches that had come from being dragged and the forming bruises on her skin. Even so she stood, holding one of her arms now. She still had tears in her eyes and almost as if ashamed she slowly lowered her gaze, bangs sweeping over her eyes.

"Doctor…I'm…I'm…" she sniffled. She shouldn't have come with them. She had been nothing but a nuisance after all. She wanted to apologize and is her mouth quivered she opened her mouth to officially get it out but the feeling of arms enclosing her made her jump and jerk into silence. Her mouth lightly fell open and her eyes had blown wide open as the moon shined down on them.

They were hugging her.

Shock rushed through her body.

"Don't." They started, arms hugging her even closer. She's never touched them before, sure they hovered over her at times and lingered closely but never once have they ever…held her. Never once had she even been this close to them, close enough to take in that sweet scent, enough to touch their pristine clothing, or enough to feel the light warmth that radiated from them. Her fingers twitched, carefully moving up to wrap around them too. A part of her feared reciprocating but surely this meant it was allowed though right? Surely she could have this from them.

"I'm glad you weren't hurt too badly. I let my guard down and just like that you were taken from me. Taken from my side. I must still have work to do when it comes to keeping you safe." They hummed against her, breath lightly tickling her neck making her shiver softly, a blush coloring her cheeks as she bit her lip. Her heart hurt, the tone in their voice sounded hopeless, grateful but analytical. It sounded like they were blaming themself for everything that had happened.

Before Bismuth had noticed she had started to shed tears, for some reason she felt lighter and Valdemar's scent and the hand rubbing soothing circles in her back didn't help calm her sobbing. She felt many things suddenly; relief, sadness, confusion and something much more fluffy.

Admiration.

She couldn't immediately understand what they were doing or why but she didn't mind. She would never mind something like this and from someone like them specifically. She almost tightened her hold when she felt them slowly pulling away but she restrained herself. They moved their hands to her shoulders and gave them a little squeeze.

"Let's get back to the palace, I'll check over you and look over your wounds." They hummed, right hand moving to caress her cheek, wiping at a few tears before lightly cupping her cheeks and tilting it to look a little closer at her. They seemed rather occupied for someone who said they'd check it later, were they actually worried? Even with her blushing hot cheeks she stayed still as they hovered close to her face. She squeezed her eyes shut, hands on their biceps. A chuckle eventually left their lips, filling the night air. Next thing Bismuth knew there was a soft pair of lips against her cheek. She blinked in confusion before her face exploded in a bright crimson color.

"At least they didn't scruff up this little face of yours too badly. Come on, let's go." They spoke, tone going from lightly joyous to a more professional one once more but even so Bismuth could have sworn their face had also grown a bit dark in hue. She slapped her hand over her cheek and sputtered, officially at a loss for words.

"You! Huh?! Oh God…" She concluded in defeat. Her face was so flushed as she followed them. It was like she immediately had forgotten what had previously occurred to her. They had…kissed her! Her heart was practically running laps in her chest so fast that she had to reach a hand up and grip her shirt. She had never thought they'd do such a thing, did that mean they felt something for her like she had for them for so long now? Is that why she caught them staring at her at times or seemingly overprotective with her, even a bit clingy at times? She didn't mind those times with them was this proof?

She sure hoped it was.

She opened her mouth to say something about it after a while of walking with them. They had made their way back to the grave, the body was gone now in the dirt, buried beneath the earth and next to the gravestone was the lantern. Valdemar grabbed it before they continued the walk, leading Bismuth back to the fence.

"Um…Quaestor?" She started softly as they walked the trail.

"Valdemar is fine." They replied with no issue. Bismuth nodded.

"Alright but…I'm just…a little confused. I don't want to assume but…back there you…" she squeezed out, Valdemar could probably see her tapping for pointer fingers together like a shy child. They lifted a brow, glancing down at her at their side before laughing a little, now looking at her fully again as they made their way back to the palace.

"Can't even wait for us to get back to safety before you ask those things?" They inquired, tone lightly teasing as they looked away once more. "It's been a long time since I've felt for someone as I do with you. That's what you were going to ask right? Well, I thought it'd be the best way to show you how I felt, maybe I got caught up in the moment as well." They explained and Bismuth fell into silence, eyes wide, and heart stunned. Were they really just confessing to her?

"Was I wrong to do so? I read that maybe people liked to use cheek kisses for those they like, would you prefer a different one?" They hummed, a grin on their lips but yes their cheeks were bright as well, a little blush of their own. They had read up on something like that just for her? She needed to know more but even then it felt like her heart would explode out her chest at any moment. How long have they felt this way for her? What books had they read? What ideas did they have for different kisses?

Bismuth was a mess, if she could tuck her face into her shirt for a moment she probably would.

"I've liked you for so long…" she whispers and Valdemar hums.

"And the feeling is mutual, so let's talk about it when we get back. We can discuss whatever you'd like and I'll answer with honesty to each one. " They promised and from there Bismuth nodded, butterflies practically bubbling up her throat as they eventually exited the woods.

"Okay." She agreed softly.

[doctor-001]

Can you write some headcanons about Vlastomil in a relationship with a trans male mc? (Has top surgery already)

Vlastomil x ftm reader

-protects you from the Questors questions

-asks to put worms on your mastectomy scars, claiming it´ll make them better, bc "snail slime helps, so worm slime will,too!"

-matching outfits

-will ask the Quaestor a ton of questions abt gender re-assignment surgery and so back and so forth

-obviously, Valdemar agrees to perform the procedure anytime you want

-Vlastomil said he´ll take care of you after the surgery, if you end up getting it

-all in all he doesn´t care abt gender much, thus he doesn´t think of you any differently than cis people

[vesuviancourtthirst]

Are you taking requests because I’d like to request the courtiers with demon mc in heat?

i don't take requests but hhhhh i'll write this i guess

Valdemar

They'd mock you for being in heat

like what are you ? an animal ? a rabbit?

would try and do some weird experiments on you while you're in this state

don't expect them to coddle you

Vulgora

Kinda like Valdemar would mock you for being a weak demon with weak urges (even tho they get the same ones lmao)

wouldn't mind fucking you as often as you need/want

would be more agressive/jealous if they notice you tends to go to others for affection instinctively

Volta

please make it s t o p

she doesn't like it

she will coddle you tho

drowned in love affection

and also sugar and blankets

she'd spend her time cuddling with you

Vlastomil

worm man is busy with his worms and refuses to do anything to you in this state bc your mind isn't really here so you can't really consent

would give you anything you need, from food to affection

just,,,,,, no fuck

Valerius

?????????

what ??? the ??? fuck ???

doesn't understand what's happening

blushing like crazy once he understands

will try to have sex with you bc you keep complaining and begging and it really gets to his head

a bit shy afterwards

after thoughts : were you really yourself ??? did you really consent ???

he's a bit afraid

you better talk to him about it BEFORE it happens

[girlwithwolftatoo]

How do you think a situation like Hades and Persephone in mythology would play out with Valdemar and MC?

It’s a very curious point since I use more the Eros and Thanatos reference when I think about Valdemar x MC, still I can figure out how it would work:

*The kidnapping: Valdemar developing a special obsesion over MC, luring them to the dungeons but just in point to avoid any other plague doctor to cast their eyes upon MC. Probably would send them to their estate to keep them safe from the plague.

*The discovering: of course all their preacutions doesn’t work and MC ends up dying. They won’t let any other doctor to take care of the body, and won’t allow them to send MC to the Lazaret, instead they keep the body in a sealed coffin in their estate as they think how bring them back.

*Hell’s fruit: in this particular scenario it’s Valdemar not Asra who makes the deal, to bring MC back to life they ask the Arcana for help and, since we’re not sure if they have a heart to share (because uwu doctor is already so deeply into other deals they maybe have already lost some humanity in the process) maybe they give up someone else’s life (Lucio, perhaps?) in exchange. Then the Arcana give them magical pomegranates to finish the ritual.

*Spring and Winter: MC’s life is restored, but in order to keep them in that way, Valdemar must give up and not see their lover for half a year, in which MC would return to work in the shop as usually. The other half they crawl together in Valdemar’s estate and MC’s health is restored via the magical pomegranates every year.

[majesprick]

Hunyo (OC) is a traveling mercenary and was badly wounded during a battle. Valdemar encounters his body and mistake it as a corpse. Hunyo wakes up being carried by Valdemar and struggles, thinking the enemy is finishing him or something. He falls and meets eye w his captor. That’s the first time he got hit by the cupid’s arrow.

[reneesghostinthelivingroom]

I’d love something fluffy where the reader is Valdemar’s apprentice, and doing science stuff together!!! I love Valdemar and I love the idea of them letting me help with a science project. And getting to hug them lol

Doctor 1890

|| Quaestor Valdemar x nonbinary!reader

|| Warnings; non specified relationship between reader and Valdemar (up to reader's decision), short drabble

|| Summary; when working on a project, Valdemar and reader spend many hours together.

Requests open!

Started; November 4th

Finished; November 4th

~~~

It was late one night, you'd lost track of time many hours ago. As you usually did down in the dungeons where you and Valdemar worked. You were one of Valdemar's favourite mortals, they'd often call upon you for assistance. Considering you to be like an apprentice. You who was Doctor 1890. Together, the two of you examined the beetles in particular. As they were Valdemar's current passion project.

"Fascinating creatures, are they not?" You heard Valdemar say as they hovered over their desk. Bent down and taking a pair of tweezers to one of the beetles. Were they talking to you or themselves? You weren't always sure. Sometimes the answer was both, or they were simply just talking to themselves. Finding delight in conversations with their own mind often.

"Quite." You decided to take the risk and speak up, Valdemar paused when they heard your voice and turned to look at you. Head tilted ever so slightly in curiosity. They often forgot you were there, with how quiet you usually were. To hear you speak was like a rare treat. They looked back to the beetle, giving it a little poke as they wrote notes in a journal.

"Indeed." They replied to you, Valdemar was never one for much conversation. Normally only speaking when necessary, though they sometimes spoke to you. You were their exception. When you did speak to them, they loved hearing what you had to say. As you often had fascinating insights and provided such a unique side to every project the two of you worked on. And there's been many over the years.

Over the next few hours, your project came to a close. Having gathered all the information that was needed that day. Valdemar walked over to you, deciding to do something they didn't do very often. Figuring that you'd earned it," thank you for your help today Doctor 1890. Your insights are always helpful."

You couldn't help but smile at that. The praise certainly caught you off guard but didn't go under appreciated. You yourself took a risk and hugged Valdemar, feeling as they seemed surprised by the action.

"What is this?" They asked, arms staying where they were. You laughed a bit.

"A hug, never been hugged before?" You replied, they tilted their head to the side.

"No."

You gave them a little squeeze before letting go," See you later, Quaestor Valdemar." You waved and left the dungeons.

Valdemar watched you go. Knowing full well there would always be a later. They enjoyed your company more than they cared to admit. They had a soft spot for you.

[angeledeggs]

Main Six + The Courtiers with a bilingual partner

Main six plus the courtiers with a bilingual significant other! Hope y'all enjoy, and thanks for the surprising amount of support! :)

Asra 💜:

Finds it cool that you know another language, and will probably ask you how you learnt it, why you learned it, etc.

Asra is also bilingual! He speaks Arabic, too, which was his first language. He can also write in it flawlessly and though he speaks English very well, his writing in English can get a bit messy when he's tired

They'll probably want to learn a few things in the other languages you know just for fun, and if you want to have conversations in that language? Even better! Asra will hit the books right away!

If you have just a bit of an accent when you switch to English or the other language you know, Asra will probably blush a bit. He finds it attractive.

Will probably brag to their parents that you're so smart that you know more than one language, and probably to their friends, too.

If you know Arabic, or even better- learned it for Asra, he'll probably fall a bit harder for you and the bragging to his parents will most definitely be nonstop.

Muriel💙:

Finds it impressive, especially since he just knows English. Will ask you a bit about the language you know, how good you are, etc.

He'll probably not want to learn it though, not because he thinks it's weird, just because he's kind of bad at memorizing things (unless it comes to what you like).

If you want him to try though, he definitely will. He'd probably try to read some books and give up, and try flash cards instead. In the end, he can kind of carry a conversation with you in the language.

But if you want to speak in that language to him more often, he'll definitely amp up his studying and a lot of the times in the evening you'll find him quietly making more flashcards. It warms your heart.

He manages to stumble through an "I love you" in the language you know and gets really happy when you can understand him.

Nadia💎:

Finds it refined and elegant that you can speak in another language, even if you can barely do it and stutter through your words.

If you have any accent, she'll also find that extremely graceful of you.

She also knows a few languages herself which includes English and a few dialects of Hindi, but she won't tell you unless you ask, just because she's never thought of it before.

If you know her language or any of the dialects (or teach yourself), no matter how broken it is, she'll melt.

Is probably similar to Asra in the act of bragging to her family about you and your skills. A lot.

Might learn a phrase or two in the language you know, just to say it to you and see your reaction. But then she's suddenly studying it every night and sometimes mumbles it in her sleep when you two cuddle.

Julian🦠:

Thinks it's cool and deems you 'even smarter'

He knows Russian and might say a thing or two to you in it when he's teasing you. If you know Russian, he most definitely will blush whenever you even start to speak it for a second.

He insists that you teach him some together to 'bond', and he'll also most likely watch a few videos to learn it, too. His pronunciation is very bad, but he's so proud, you can't really tell him that.

He'll probably brag to Portia, too, about how awesome you are and how you're bilingual. He may or may not write down every little thing he loves about you in one of his journals. His journals are a mess though, so you'll never find it.

Will call you a nickname in the other language you know like sweetheart or honey. If you allow it, of course.

Portia🧡:

As soon as she hears you speak it, she's fallen in love all over again. Will definitely blush each time you speak it, which she can't help!

She knows just a bit of Russian, but not a lot, and mainly speaks English. Hearing and knowing that your bilingual definitely inspires her to get back to being fluent? And oh, if you speak Russian, she's absolutely floored.

Might study with you if you're not fluent yet, just for the bonding.

Gets all flustered if you have an accent, too.

She actually goes to her brother to get back into her Russian and will affectionately refer to you in terms of endearment of your own language, or her own like "Дорогой" or "Моя любовь"

Lucio👑:

Someone call an ambulance, because he thinks he's about to have a heart attack when he hears you speak in the other language that you know. A good heart attack, of course!

Only knows English himself and is impressed no matter what language you speak. He might even learn some of it just to impress you.

He's so proud of you for knowing another language, no matter what level of fluent you are. Sometimes he just asks you to speak it to him so he can relax.

If he's actually committed to learning your language for you, he'll put some TV shows on with voiceovers in the language you speak, since he heard that's the best way to learn.

Might even get a book, if he wants to feel like he really is trying.

After a long time, he'll be able to stutter through a conversation with you in the other language you know. But only to see you smile.

Valerius🍷:

How... Sophisticated. He's definitely impressed. Which, honestly, is rare for him. He only knows English, so to know that you know another language has him a bit speechless for a moment.

To show how impressed he is with your language abilities, he'll most likely get you a few books in the other language you know so that you can read them.

And if you have an accent? He's blushing already.

Will study the language half heartedly for a bit when one day he suddenly decides he actually wants to know it like you do, and studies much more.

He's able to keep a conversation with you, and to him, he's very proud of both you... And, yes, himself. But he definitely won't say it or brag or anything, he's just happy he can talk to you in the language. Especially gossip.

Vlastomil🐛:

Doesn't realize that you're bilingual at first, but when he does, he'll definitely compliment you on your knowledge.

Thinks that it's very smart for you to know more than one language, and finds himself impressed by the face that you're bilingual.

If you happen to have an accent in either your English or other language, he thinks that it's extremely cute and will probably ask you to speak to him in your other language just to hear it.

Just knows English and a bit of Latin, and that's probably enough for him. But if you want him to learn your language? For you, anything.

He'll definitely commit to it if you want him to learn it too, and will end up buying lots of books about the language. He ends up stuttering through it and half fluent, but very proud.

Valdemar🧠:

If you know a language, Valdemar probably knows it too, but they're still impressed. They probably won't admit it, though.

If you have an accent in either English or the other language, they find it, strangely... adorable. Very adorable, and they insist you speak it more often around them. They had spent years hiding their own accent/s wherever they went, after all.

Will definitely have a few books in the language you know. And they give it to you. They don't lend it to you. They give it to you, insisting that it was yours all along in the end.

If you call them something affectionate in your language, they will respond with a surprisingly enthusiastic kiss.

Volta🍰:

Wow, she's so impressed! She doesn't know many bilingual people and is monolingual herself, which makes your knowledge even more impressive to her.

Will want to watch shows with you that have your language in it, even though she can't understand it, just to bond.

She'll also probably want to try food from the country that speaks your language, just from curiousity.

She gets super blushy if you ever refer to her in your language as something affectionate, and will probably make a little squeaking noise.

Vulgora⚔️:

Only knows English, and is very impressed with your skill. Insists that they learn some, too, just so you two can talk in your other language.

They love it when you speak in the other language you know, and they find it actually calms them down, a lot. It's so calming to them that it's able to put them to sleep, really.

They brag about your skill to other nobles and maybe even the family members they still talk to.

If you ever refer to them as something affectionate in the language you know, they will demand you repeat it over and over for them until they can say it themselves and calm you that

It's surprisingly sweet for such an aggressive warrior.

❀

[timmys-and-scribbles]

I may have,,, gotten sucked into a new AU and I’m dragging all of u down with me (but especially @bastart13 and @jyuukichannart and @wolfbatspace because there’s no escaping the gravitational pull of my AUs)

[greyspirehollow]

Vesuvia Weekly ; Where... do these stairs go?

Pairings : Liam (my mc) x Quaestor Valdemar - Platonic

Fandom : The Arcana visual novel

Warnings : Plague years, wipeeee 💥; beetles maybe ; human corpses/bodyparts ; sickness everywhere ; spooky spooks scares scary (so horror, if I write it correctly) ; sick people ; vomitting ; gore

Summary : Working in the dungeons is something alright. Even more so when there's literally a room no one ever goes to, not even the head physician of the palace...

The Plague was ravaging Vesuvia. Doctors came and went, hurried through rows of beds and operation tables, bumping into each other. It was, sadly, rather normal. Sounds of loud coughing and retching echoed through the dungeons’ halls... Music to the Quaestor’s ears. Boxes of instruments were moved around, from one desk to a table, doctors shouted at nurses and nurses shouted at doctors. The horrid air filled their nostrils and they let out a blissful sigh. Those sounds, this smell, it was almost akin to a lullaby for them. As the day came to an end, they retreated to their office, as they rubbed their hands together and got ready to count today’s victims.

The office itself was noticeably more quiet, which was somewhat appreciated, since they had to focus on writing, counting, and organizing. They flipped through the various files the doctors had slipped under their office door throughout the day, looking through the reports, causes of death and such. After writing down everything, they organized the reports in a neat pile which they then dumped in the wooden box at their feet. They stretched, their joints snapping slightly from staying sitting in the same position for too long.

They tilted their head as they heard a knock at the door. "Come in." It was strange for someone to come in at that time. Or come in at all. As the door opened, they recognized Dr.072. They stood up from their chair. "Can I help you?"

"Yeah I uh... Can’t find your trash tub?" Liam said, slightly awkward.

Ah, the trash tub. The little recipient in which they tossed whatever bodypart they were done with.

"Yes, I put it near the well this time." They replied, straightening their apron and swiftly walking out of the office, expecting Dr.072 to follow, which he did. Once they both reached the pit, Valdemar gestured to the trash tub, and Liam opened the beetle well to dump its contents inside. He watched as the various lumps of bloody flesh slipped into the well with a ploof, the skittering of the delighted red beetles feasting reaching his ears. He looked at the swarm of insects for a little while, torn between shuddering and smiling. Liam sighed and put the empty trash tub away, looking back at Valdemar, who had closely observed the trash disposal with their eerie grin, as usual.

"...Say, I have a question."

Liam said, breaking the silence.

"Mh?"

"...What’s behind that door?"

He pointed at the old, dark, small door at the very end of the operating hall.

"Mh? I don’t know, I never went there."

... Pardon? Valdemar, never having gone to one of the corners of their dungeons? That...

"What?"

They shrugged

"It never seemed important. Do you want to go check? I won’t stop you."

Liam hesitated, looking back at the door. He walked towards it, his steps resonating in the hall, as Valdemar watched, standing still in their spot. The necromancer approached the door, carefully avoiding the splats of blood and flesh on the ground. He paused, and looked it up and down. The wood was dark and dull, as if it had been smoked, nearly burned. It didn’t look very sturdy, but as Liam got a hold of the doorknob, he found himself struggling to push the door open. He took a deep breath and shoved his shoulder into the wood, and nearly tumbled forward as the door opened. He looked beyond, trying to see something in the darkness. But all he could see were stairs... Stairs leading into nothing. Little particles of ash flew before his eyes and he stood there for a second, stunned. What was this room...?

He looked at the stairs, wondering if he should go down. But as he saw the way they slowly disappeared into nothingness, he decided against it. Where could they lead...? He looked at the blackness in front of him again, trying to sense something, a hint of magic, looking for clues of someone's past presence... But he found nothing. A thin layer of dust covered each steps of the stairs, but there wasn't a single cobweb or a single beetle to be found here. He swallowed nervously. This... This wasn't good. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but the fact that there seemed to be absolutely nothing in there... Bugged him. As if something was supposed to be there, but it wasn't anymore, long gone, vanished eons ago, out of reach for his mortal mind...

He swallowed thickly. This... Whatever this was, was wrong. And yet he couldn't bear to look away. As if he was stuck in place, bound to be frozen in place as those stairs and the mysterious room ahead were.

"Should we go down?"

Liam gasped loudly and flinched as he heard Quaestor Valdemar's voice right next to his ear. He tried his best to calm back down, looking between them and the stairs.

"... Are we supposed to?" He inquired, making the surgeon's head tilt.

"Whatever do you mean? Are you trying to say we are forbidden from entering this place?"

Liam paused, and looked back at the eerie staircase. They weren't... Wrong. He did feel as if he wasn't supposed to go down. But why, if there was nothing there...?

"..."

Valdemar's gaze looked at the stairs too. They paused, contemplating what was before them, a mix of curiosity and resilience swelling in their chest. They couldn't tell what was down there, and that was curious. But at the same time, if they of all people couldn't guess what was there, then maybe there was nothing to see. Or... There was something, but they or Dr.072 weren't allowed to know. What a puzzling dilemma... Finally something interesting.

They quietly debated in their mind for a while, just as Liam did. They both stood in front of the eerie staircase, unsure of what to do.

"... You know what? Let's not. That would be a waste of time."

"Yes, I believe it would."

Both agreed to close the door and go about Vesuvia's plague business as they were supposed to. The mysterious room, however, had now a place in the back of Valdemar's mind... As time went on, they found themselves more, and more, and more curious. They decided to go in. What were they risking, anyway?

When all the doctors had left the dungeons, they stood in front of the ominous staircase again, and, one step at a time, went down. Their silhouette was progressively engulfed by the darkness, and their eyes got used to the obscurity. There was almost quite literally nothing but barren, dusty, grey and ash-colored walls, and the staircase was exactly 55 steps - they'd counted, just in case -. They reached a cube-like empty room, and looked around attentively, trying to find little clues, such as things carved in the brick walls, or buttons, or any kind of thing that stood out and could give them an answer. All they found was a small, metallic gear on the floor. They crouched down and picked it up to inspect it.

They felt a strange sensation in their hands, a faint hum of... Energy, or something similar. They looked at the gear attentively, trying to comprehend what this thing was and what it was doing there... But they couldn't figure it out. This... Was probably the strangest thing. They could feel it - the object almost vibrating, its energy trying to come into contact with their mind, but failing. It was like dipping one's head underwater or standing in the breeze, a faint flow, a glimpse, a snipet from a realm they didn't know of. Whatever the object, and who or what was attached to it, was trying to communicate, it failed. It just couldn't reach them, no matter how much it tried.

After a while of unsuccessful attempts at discovery, they sighed, and decided to go back up. They put the gear down, and took the stairs back up to the dungeons...

The following day, they decided to talk about their discovery to Dr.072, only to be met with confusion on his part.

"What staircase?"

They were even more confused by the fact he didn't seem to remember, and briefly checked if it wasn't some symptom of illness but... He was completely fine. No magical or physical traces of modifications on his body or in his mind, no sickness no fever...

And when they went back to the staircase, they were met with a simple wall, as if it had simply never been there.

beetle dividers by @kodaswrld