#so there might be some slight errors mostly with the last answer

[mintsv]

cherry blossom - k. gyuvin

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pairing ➷ gyuvin x gn!reader

synopsis : you and gyuvin were in your last years of high school and lived beside each other. at school, he's captain of the basketball team, gyuvin is friendly and easygoing, not to mention he's extremely popular. on the other hand, you're the class president and have been for many years, you very studious, making you not have many friends. nevertheless, your fateful friendship bloomed under the cherry blossoms of april.

genre : romance . fluff . slight angst . high school au

word count : 3.5k

warnings : swearing (only once tho)

notes : hii i posted again finally!! sorry bcs english isnt my first language there might be some grammar errors 😅, it's also my first time writing a gn!reader so i'm sorry if i make some mistakes ;D

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➷ the first encounter

it was the month of april, the start of spring, and your favorite month of the year mostly because you enjoy gazing at the cherry blossoms on your way back from school. you wore a mid-length puffer jacket since the weather was a bit chilly, holding your hands up to your face to see your fingertips have become slightly reddish. you sigh as you bury your hands back in the pockets of your puffer as you tried distracting yourself from the cold by talking to your classmate beside you.

"soo.. about the cherry blossom festival, i was thinking we could do something involving our basketball team since you know, the captain is in our class of course.." she giggled, acting giddyly similar to a child.

"well, I've had 5 people telling me the same thing and i'll repeat my answer one last time, I'll think about it okay? but there's a big chance it's not going to happen." you exasperatingly sigh as the girl beside you inevitably left after realizing you wouldn't agree to her request.

as the class president, your duty is to arrange class activities, one of them being the cherry blossom festival happening in a few weeks time. there wasn't a particular reason why you denied all the requests, you just weren't very fond of the boy. he was always late to class, sometimes even skipping entirely to play basketball. his behaviour took a toll on your status as class president, teachers who couldn't get through the boy would often scold you instead.

you thought this calming walk back home couldn't get any worse until you were met face to face with the devil himself.

he wasn't walking home with his friends like he normally would, he looked back when he felt someone's stare burning holes on his back, his eyes with yours almost immediately.

as if on cue, a 10 thousand won bill (around 7 usd) fell from one of the swaying cherry trees, landing perfectly in between you and him. both of your eyes followed the bill as it glides down to the concrete floor, your eyes going back and forth from the bill to the boy in front of you.

CRASH!

"Ow!"

feeling a head collide with yours, you let out a painful hiss while holding your head with one arm. slowly you look up to see the boy in front of you mirroring your movements. you were both knelt down, one hand on the dollar bill with the other clutching your heads.

"Aha! my hand is under yours, that means the 10k is mine." his words woke you up from the trance you were in, widening your eyes when you realized your hands were on top of his own. you quickly pulled away but that didn't mean you were backing up.

"yeah but that's because you hit my hand!" you retorted back, showing him the red mark on the back of your hand.

"it was just an act of self defense i'm sorry, um.. what if we just split it, I'll buy you something from the cafeteria?" the boy rubbed the back of his neck nervously, stretching out his hand that held the dollar bill.

you thought to yourself for a moment before replying,

"fine, i'll forgive you under three conditions." you stood up with your arms crossed. the boy in front of you following as he nodded erratically.

"one, you can never be late nor skip classes from tomorrow onward and explain to mr lee why you've been late this entire time. two, your basketball team has to participate in this year's cherry blossom festival as the representative of our class. and three, you owe me a carton of strawberry milk." you smirk proudly, seeing the color drain from the boy's face.

"okay okay, what if we skip number one and two and i'll buy you TWO cartons of strawberry milk? how does that sound?" he pleaded.

"fine then, i'm telling the counselor you hurt a fellow student." you started to walk back to school but before you could take another step, a hand held your wrist to prevent you from walking further, just as you expected.

"okay, fine. jeez i didn't know the class president was this stern." he smirked almost flirtingly even though you didn't get the hint.

"i have a name you know, it's y/n." you turn to face him again, annoyed because in the school almost no one calls you by your real name and for some reason it made you think no one actually knew your name.

"alright y/n, i'm kim gyuvin and it's nice to meet you too." he grinned similar to a puppy, extending his hand waiting to be shook by yours.

you looked at his hand, back to his face, and to his hand again. after a few seconds of contemplation, you lightly extended your cold hand which was quickly greeted by the warmth of gyuvin's.

just for a moment there, you felt a foreign feeling of butterflies swarming your stomach.

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➷ a few months later

"KIM GYUVIN!" you bang on his apartment door, looking at the time on your phone before stepping away from the door.

"I'M UP! I'M UP!" like usual, the door slammed open, revealing a disheveled gyuvin in his school uniform that was horribly crinkled. his eyes were barely open and his hair was stood up, obvious that he had just gotten up from bed.

"did you sleep in your school uniform?" you tilt your head, looking at him from head to toe with a concerned look. it was your daily task to wake up gyuvin every morning ever since you found out that the both of you lived beside each other, obviously neither of you ever noticed considering gyuvin's 'always late' agenda and your 'always early' one.

"no.." you roll your eyes as he sheepishly smiles.

"there's still 30 minutes, go take a shower, you stink." you forcefully push the boy back into his apartment, shutting the door behind him. you could make out a bunch of whines coming from the opposite side, meanwhile you couldn't help the small grin from forming on your face.

after 10 minutes, the door opened for the second time, unveiling a less disheveled gyuvin. his hair fluffed up giving him a boyish look, the tiredness in his eyes was now replaced with a glint of excitement, his clothes seemingly less crinkled and his puppy-like smile on full display.

god you thought you had just fallen in love for the millionth time.

gyuvin slung his arms around your shoulder almost putting you in a headlock, "I know i'm terribly handsome but we might be late if you can't stop staring." he gave you a smug look in which you returned with a disgusted one.

"whatever."

you both walked to school as usual, his arms weren't slung around you anymore since there were other students around and gyuvin didn't want them 'getting the wrong idea'.

arriving at school on time was something gyuvin wasn't used to but he didn't mind if it meant he could spend more time with his best friend, you (of course).

"you're coming to my match this afternoon right, class prez?"

'class prez' that was the nickname gyuvin gave you ever since you both met, he would rarely call you by your real name, only if things were serious which barely ever happens anyways.

"yeah, if i can." you respond nonchalantly.

"you always say that, but at the end of the day you always come." he gave you a small grin which made your cheeks turn a pinkish hue.

"whatever."

"whatever, whatever, whatever, do you ever say anything else?" as the both of you continued bickering, the boy's contagious smile made you break out into a grin as well. to other people, both of you looked like two kids madly in love with each other. as cliché as it sounds, it was painfully obvious to everyone except you and gyuvin.

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school had just officially ended for the day. Your classmates bid you goodbye, everyone in a hurry to see the upcoming basketball match between your school and the neighboring school. of course, gyuvin had left earlier in order to fulfill his duties as team captain. currently, you were fulfilling your own duties as class president with your assistant, park gunwook.

"y/n why do we have to do this? can't we just do this tomorrow, pleaasee i really wanna see the match!" the boy beside you pleaded, having his head ontop of his folded arms, looking at the window where you could see students holding banners hurrying inside the school gym where the match was held.

"if you stop whining we might be able to sort these in time so we can see the match, gunwook." you reply sternly, quickly going over the files the teacher assigned you.

"don't lie y/n, i know you wanna skip and watch your loverboy too." gunwook looks to you with a teasing glint in his eyes that you didn't take notice of.

"my what? stop fooling around and help me sort these!" though your voice was a bit shaky, it seemed to convince gunwook enough for him to start helping you.

as time went by, you skimmed over the endless stack of files, eyes growing visibly tired and red. on the other hand, the 'assistant' beside you had already fallen deep into dreamland after helping you with one or two files. you couldn't help but listen to the ongoing match inside the gym and the faint sound of cheering, praying you'd finish these soon enough to join in the bleachers.

after a while, you finally finished sorting the needed files, rubbing your eyes tiredly. you dropped the files in front of gunwook with a loud thud.

"AHH YOU SCARED ME!" he woke up in a cold sweat, holding his hand to his heart.

"take these to mr choi, i'm leaving now." you quickly pack your bags, leaving the boy alone in the classroom still recovering from the shock you gave him.

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inside the gym, it was break time for both teams and gyuvin's eyes couldn't help but scan through the crowd of people on the bleachers, not seeing the face he was looking for, he sighed in defeat as his mind went back to the conversation he had with you in the morning.

><

"i'm serious gyuvin, i might not be able to make it today, i have a lot of things to do, so i apologize beforehand."

"it's okay, don't apologize, it's not your fault. just..come by if you can."

><

his mood was somewhat down since the start of the match, leading his team to worry about the boy.

"hey man you ok? a little bit more and we can catch up, don't give up now!" his teammate, ricky spoke up while slinging his arms around the brunette's shoulder.

"no it's not that, ricky." gyuvin removed the arm around his shoulder, slumping down onto his seat, head hung low.

"ohhh i know, it's because his 'class prez' isn't here yet." his other teammate, yujin chirped in an attempt to ease the tension, earning a nudge from ricky.

"dude don't say that!"

"what? say what?!" yujin held his lower stomach where ricky had nudged him as they both continued to bicker.

gyuvin wasn't paying attention to the two boys in front of him, more focused on his phone which he unconciously keeps checking. he had hoped for a text message from you, confirming if you were coming by or not. but no matter how long he waited, the text never came. eventually, the horns had blasted, signalling the start of the final round to decide the winner of the match.

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meanwhile, arriving at the basketball court, you ran to the bleachers, taking up the last remaining spot on the railing as your eyes scan the court in front of you. you were out of breath from all the running you did to get here, chest heaving up and down as your eyes frantically searched for the brunette.

as gyuvin was getting into position, his eyes trailed to the bleachers one last time. to his surprise, the first pair of eyes he had met was yours. the frown on his face was suddenly nowhere to be seen, his eyes lit up and he felt a warm feeling engulf in his heart.

hurriedly, you scribble down 'kim gyuvin!' on a page of your sketchbook, holding it up for the boy to see. gyuvin's smile got impossibly bigger upon seeing his written name, his eyes lit up as he shamelessly waved to you which made his teammates look at him, dumbfounded and also slightly relieved to know their captain was back.

"see, i told you if y/n comes he'll be back to normal." yujin smirked as he nudged ricky, who seems to be unbothered by the younger male, his focus mainly on the pair before he eventually drags gyuvin to his designated position as the referee signalled the start of the game.

throughout the final game, you were incredibly stressed out while your eyes moved back and forth from the score board and to the brown haired boy. both teams were already incredibly tired except for gyuvin who looked like he was playing in the first round.

"pass! pass!"

the brunette yelled from across the court, after obtaining the ball, he took a risky move which made you and a few others jump from their seats. the scores were exceptionally close and time was limited, meaning if he managed to score this 3-point, the team is guaranteed a victory.

for a split second, the crowd went silent as gyuvin shot the ball. just as the timer ticked zero, the crowd erupted with cheers and the alarm went off signalling the end of the match. gyuvin had succesfully scored a point, making his team the ultimate winner.

the boy felt like he was on cloud 9 with so many people calling on his name and his teammates hurdling around him with smiles on their faces. but most importantly, there you were on the bleachers, smiling at him and giving him a thumbs up which he found utterly adorable. after the cheers had slowed down, gyuvin excused himself from his teammates, running to the locker and changing his clothes as fast as he could.

when he got out, he was met by your presence almost immediately.

"congratulations! sorry i couldn't come earlier." your smile wasn't as big since you tried to keep your cool in front of hin.

gyuvin didn't respond for a while which worried you, but you were surprised to feel your feet up in the air as two arms lifted you up and spun you around. you held onto his shoulder for balance basically hugging him as you could smell his faint cologne making you blush provusely. the red on your cheeks didn't go unnoticed by the boy but he only shrugged it off thinking you were just excited for him.

after many complaints from you, gyuvin put you back down. he smiled ear to ear as he rubbed his nape nervously.

"sorry, i'm just happy you came." you couldnt bear the eye contact with him, your eyes searched for anything other than the boy.

"by the way you look really tired, was there a lot of work?" he continued, cupping your cheeks with both of his hands, forcing you to look at him. it was something he often did and it made you feel butterflies as his two hands felt warm on your cold cheeks.

"y-yeah i had to do everything by myself since gunwook fell asleep halfway, it's fine though i'm not that tired." you tried to reassure him, circling your hands around his wrists to pull him away but it only made him squish your face harder which made you let out a whine.

"but your eyes are so red! hurry, i'll take you home so you can get some rest." finally letting go of your face, he takes one of your wrists and lead you to the gym where all his friends are waiting for him.

"gyuvin i feel fine, i wanna stay here longer please?"

"why do you want to stay here-" his words were cut short by an unfamiliar voice.

"kim gyuvin!"

from behind the boy appeared a girl who looks to be one of your underclassmen. it's no doubt gyuvin is popular among seniors, but classes below you weren't an exception either.

gyuvin turned around to face the younger girl and you followed suit, leaning in a bit to listen to their conversation.

"can i help you?" gyuvin spoke in a polite manner.

"gyuvin oppa, can we talk outside i have something to tell you." the girl fiddled with the hem of her skirt nervously, you already knew where this was going and gyuvin did too.

"i'm sorry i-"

"please? it's really important it wont take long.." the girl pleaded, holding on to the hem of his shirt and the sight almost making you puke.

despite gyuvin's hesitation, he looked back to you and mouthed a 'sorry' before being rushed off by the girl.

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after gyuvin left you let out the biggest sigh, having such a popular best friend was hard and not to mention your enormous crush on him made it even worse.

essentially you wanted to stay at school longer to spend time with the best friend who just left you, but since he's no longer here you find a spot to sit on the bleachers. you remember the two cans of soda in your backpack, now having no one to share them with.

as you pop open one of the cans, before you could take a sip, you felt a presence beside you.

"hey, can i sit here?" a familiar voice caught your attention, shen quanrui aka ricky who is your classmate and one of gyuvin's friends.

"oh, um sure." you took your backpack from the seat, putting it on your lap and taking a sip of your soda.

"soo.. y/n right? i heard a lot about you from gyuvin."

"haha yeah.. you're ricky right? i also hear about you from gyuvin."

an awkward silence flew in the air for a solid 10 seconds.

"do you know what he's doing right now? i've been looking all over and i can't find him." his question reminded you again why you were talking to him in the first place, he left cause some girl is gonna confess to him, should you really say that?

"well, a girl pulled him outside, said she has something important to tell him and you can guess the rest." you chuckle bitterly.

"it's hard to be friends with someone so popular isn't it?" somehow his statement brightened your mood a little.

"yeah, that's exactly what i was just thinking." you finally had the courage to lift your head and look at the blonde beside you.

ricky was also semi-popular, his looks are well known to everyone in the school and his personality wasn't so bad either.

"so he really left you alone here? what an asshole, maybe i should beat him later." he put his hands into fists and started punching the air like a boxer.

"oh please don't, i think the girl he's talking to right now has tortured him enough." ricky laughed and you followed suit, feeling more comfortable as time went by.

"do you like soda?"

"well it depends, i only like it when it's a 1+1 deal." you chuckle, handing him the can of soda in your backpack since yours was almost finished and you wanted to have a soda buddy to drink with.

"thanks, i like it even better when it's free."

"oh please, you owe me lunch tomorrow."

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meanwhile outside of the gym,

"oppa, i really like you- no! i love you please go out with me!" the girl stretched out her hands, holding a thick envelope which could only mean one thing.

"i'm really sorry, but i'm not interested in relationships right now. and i don't want your money." the boy politely bowed, pushing the girl's hands back.

"please! i'll double the money if you want to, just go out with me once, i really like you please give me one chance!" gyuvin has had a series of confessions to him, but this was his first one that seemed a bit extreme.

"i can't, i'm sorry but i-"

"oppa, do you like someone already?"

"what?" the question made gyuvin stop in his tracks.

"you do don't you? is that why you don't want to accept my love? who is it just be honest!" the younger girl was now sobbing uncontrollably which fueled panic in gyuvin who didn't know how to properly comfort the girl, especially being the reason shes crying in the first place.

"no i don't like anyone, but i'm sorry i can't go out with you please stop crying.." he nervously patted her back in an attempt to soothe her but it had only made her cry louder, hence he stood and did nothing at all.

"oppa, you like y/n don't you?"

"what? no.." gyuvin felt a lump in his throat, his head suddenly flooded with thoughts of you, his best friend.

"so you do.. lucky them." the girl wiped the last of her tears before cowardly running away, leaving gyuvin dumbfounded with a new thought clouding his brain.

'do i like y/n?"

read chapter 2 here!

-> extra note : this is also gonna be two or three parts SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG but i hope you enjoy it because this was really cringe when i wrote it 😅 (fyi the opening was based on a recent film i watched on netflix called omg (oh my girl) its really good highly recommended!)

[noffy96]

Errink fic: What death takes from us Chapter 2

Well, so far the poll is voting for today...but night has passed for me so it's technically tomorrow? So both sides win? Next time I will think a bit harder on that poll, it was a bit spur of the moment XD

But here it is Chapter 2! And i am quite proud of it. so everyone go enjoy

What death takes from us:

Painfull struggles:

Word count: 9166 

Chapter (2/3) (In process)

(previous chapter)

Chapter Summary:

Ink is hiding, how much he is struggling with the current situation. He doesn't want Error to know how much he misses that he could simply touch him. But one phone call might just change all that.

Link here to AO3

Or continue below the read-more line

He dipped the brush in the glob of yellow and continued to paint. He had been at it for hours. This was the third painting of the day, and at this point, his mind had zoned out. His body just continued on autopilot. 

The quiet was nice. It won't last. But it was nice.  He tried to ignore all the different colors bubbling under the surface trying to come up and take hold of him once more. 

He just wanted to enjoy the moment of calm for as long as it lasted, having been way too frenzied even for his own liking. But today was a day off. Error was hanging out with Blue and Lust, finally able to catch up on Undernovela after the crazy months they had just had. 

A soft smile came over his face as a bit of pink flooded his system. He was sure he was gonna hear all about it later. 

There was a buzzing sound, and he looked down at his phone. He had forgotten it was here. He had been listening to some podcast of sorts, but he didn’t know when that had stopped. He checked the screen.  It read ‘Dream calling’. A burst of yellow and blue came to the surface, and with some fumbling, he accepted the call and put him on speaker, so he could continue his work. 

“Heya Dream, it’s been a while.”

“Ink…you saw me two days ago,” Dream said with a sigh.

He blinked surprised staring at the screen for a second when a memory came to him. Of himself, Blue, and Dream helping out in Outertale. Something about people being stuck on asteroids.

“Ah, you are right, my bad.” 

“So…uh…how have things been with you and Error?”   Dream asked awkwardly. 

The blue took over the yellow, and everything around him seemed to dim in color. 

“No updates…still the same, just like last month…and the month before that…and the month before that…” 

He was trying to sound neutral. Which he normally did without a problem. But now…it felt like there was a hint of bitterness in his own tone. 

Error’s death had really set things back for them. They didn’t have an incident quite like the one on the first day he returned. But even standing close to his boyfriend made the glitches spring up. 

“I am…sorry to hear that…”

He gave an answering hum. It might be the slight static coming through the phone, but he wasn’t sure if Dream fully meant what he said. 

Dream and Error never really got on. He knew his Glitchy could care less about Dream. 

But Error cared enough for him to not be a total asshole about it. He just grumble a bit, and it wasn’t like he would force Error to change. 

They didn’t like each other. It wasn’t a big deal, Both of them could set aside their anger if it really came down to it. 

Well, he hoped so anyway.

His own relationship with his former best friend was…Strained to say the least.

Noticing a mistake in his work, he frowned and went to fix it.

“How is the truce with Nightmare going?” he asked the golden twin. 

“I am surprised you remembered”

He gave a shrug the other couldn’t see over the phone.

“But things are going…”

There was a pause in which he heard some rustling like Dream was changing positions.

“Good, I suppose.” 

He gave another hum.

“Just not as fast as you hoped?” 

“I Guess…, I think…I thought I’d be able to talk more about…you know everything that happened but we mostly just…I dunno” 

“Talk business?”  he offered.

Dream laughed softly. 

“Hit the nail on the head with that one. Dunno what I expected…more I suppose.” 

He could almost see the positive guardian shrug. 

“Don’t worry, you got all the time in the world to sort things out…I mean, if you could forgive me enough to start talking to me again…well I have no doubts You and your brother can manage as well”  

He could feel yellow flow through him, trying to put as much care and sympathy in his voice as possible, probably overshooting it by a bit. The long pause that followed made him worry he had said something wrong. 

“I guess so…” 

And try as he might he wasn't able to tell what Dreams' tone meant. So before another long pause would come he decided to quickly change subjects. 

“So how's your break? Gone anywhere fun?“ 

He asked vaguely remembering Blue having mentioned going somewhere with Dream. As he cleaned his brush and now dipped it in a vibrant red.

“...feeling less like punishment...”  Dream stated hesitantly “ I am sure you heard from Blue?” 

“That he caught you trying to increase the Au’s positivity, when you were off duty. Yes, I did. I think he mentioned it along with lecturing me for the same thing?” He said with a laugh

“Are…you really that stressed..?”  

Blinking at the question. Feeling his eyes' shapes change several times, pulling away from the canvas. 

“Guess so?...dunno…?”  

He felt blue and purple start to mix but it wasn’t making him sad…more anxious. But for what he wasn’t sure. 

“Just don’t push yourself too hard okay, We don’t want what happened to Error to happen to you.”  

He took in a quick gasp and quickly shook his head. Trying to get rid of the unwanted image that popped into his head. Quickly grabbing some more paint, some of it dripping of the brush and onto his toes as he brought it back to the canvas.

“Awww! You do still care about me after all.”  

His voice sounded wrong, too much-forced cheer. When he wasn’t feeling any of it, in the way the yellow was coming through, over the much stronger purple he tried to swallow down

“I never stopped idiot. '' 

Dream snapped back loudly, and he fell silent. Feeling various shades of blue. Dream had sounded hurt. He had just meant it as a fun tease

“Sorry..” 

He mumbled automatically and he heard Dream let out a heavy sigh. 

“It’s…it’s fine…I know you didn’t…”

 There was another long pause.

 “I shouldn’t have shouted”  Dream finished eventually.

A guilty feeling welled up inside of him. Having an inkling that what he just heard, was something that was in some way concerning even if he couldn't pinpoint why.  Feeling slightly frustrated at his memory failing him. 

“You…are allowed to be Upset at me..”

He said tentatively. He knows he isn’t the easiest to deal with. And Dream has forgiven a lot from him. Small and big things. They wouldn’t have been together for as long as they had if Dream hadn’t. It had come with its own pitfalls. And he can see the mistakes and unhealthy balance that was their past relationship. He was sure Dream saw them too.

It was painful in a way. Knowing you had unintentionally hurt someone you cared quite deeply for. He would never say that he regretted his past relationship with Dream But now, he can say with much more clarity that he rather just be friends. 

That is why he wants to fix it. Try and talk like the immortal adults they are. It was hard on both of them. Dream had a particularly nasty few months behind him. Where he was lashing out more and more. Dream had been forced into a mold. One that he had sometimes helped build, and he was glad to see his former Lover freer. Even with the nasty side effects. Dream was allowed to be angry at him.  

Reconnecting with Nightmare was also a good sign. The two of them having these regular phone calls helped too. It might be a long while until they could hang out like old friends again. But they got time, and he was looking forward to that day. 

Dream sighed deeply. 

“You…are right…..But I didn’t need to lash out..” The other mumbled. 

He gave the phone a smile.

 “You’re forgiven.“ 

Dream let out a small laugh, then the sound of another voice sounded distantly over the phone. 

“Mnn? With Who?...yeah that is okay, be sure to let me know when you come back”  

Dream said to whoever was on the other end. And he felt excitement grow inside of him. There were only a few people that hung around Dreams house. 

He picked up the phone and in his rush dropped his small paintbrush to the floor. 

“Is that Pallete?! Can you say Hi for me?! “

Dream made a sound like a wince, 

Oops he didn’t mean to shout, but then he heard something from the background then Dream going 

“Yes it is, he says hi” There was a small pause.  “Oh yeah sure…Ink, Pallete wants to talk with you”

More yellow rushed through him making him rock in place. 

He was always happy to chat with any of his kids. He knew he wasn’t the best dad. Some might say even one of the worst. But he tries, he honestly does. He knows that with some of them, he might never get a good relationship going.

But Pallete wasn’t one of them, A proper father-son dynamic, he might not get. But Pallete at least didn’t hate him.  And he would do his utmost best, to be there for him should he ever need it. 

“Dad..?” 

The smile on his face grew at hearing the familiar voice. 

“Hey, Pal! How are you doing?” 

“Good! Um, little question? Think we can move our meeting up a week? I really need to help a friend out.”  

The yellow got taken over by blue, and he felt the excitement fade from his voice, no matter how hard he tried to control it. But he swallowed down the sadness and tried to not sound disappointed. 

“Oh..of course!, let me just…write down the new date…I don’t wanna forget…So not coming Wednesday….but the one after that, according to OG timeline rules?” 

“Mnn Yes, Sorry that I had to change it on such short notice, I just really don’t wanna abandon my friend.” 

 He smiled Pallete was a good kid. Most likely Dreams influence. As he quickly changed the date on his scarf with his finger.

“Of course not, your old man can wait okay? It will give me more time to set things up” 

“Thanks, Dad!, gotta run now. Sorry and bye” 

“It is okay, Take care and see you soon”  

There was some more rustling, as the phone was handed back hearing Dream say to Pallete

“Have fun at Goths!” 

Which made him smile. He had a feeling about who his son was helping out. Maybe Error might know something and could fill him in. Then there was another pause in their conversation. 

“Are you okay, Ink?” 

He shook his head.

“Yeah…yeah I am fine…was just…looking forward to spending time with him, that’s all”  

Dream let out a sympathetic hum. 

“Did you write down the new date?” 

He could hear the doubt in Dream's voice. And he had to tempt down the small flash of hot anger that wanted to boil up. He wasn’t that much of an idiot.

“Of course, don’t want to forget” 

“Please don’t “  

His grip on his phone tightened. And he decided to keep his mouth shut.

“Ah sorryIink, I gotta go as well…It was…enjoyable…to talk with you again” 

He noticed how the other avoided the word fun. But he would take it. 

“I am glad we talked as well Dream. Same time next month?” 

“Works for me, hear from you then, if nothing else comes up”  

He chuckled at Dream.

“With our job, not gonna happen. But let’s hope the multiverse gives us both a small break” 

Dream chuckled as well

 “We certainly earned it... Bye Ink” 

“Bye Dream” 

And then he heard a click and lowered his phone staring pensively at the call-ended screen till it went dark. 

He was feeling as conflicted as he always did after his phone call with Dream. A mixture of yellows and purples. Happy he was able to talk with his friend again. Glad it seemed to have gone smoothly.

But also worried. Did he say the wrong thing somewhere?  Did he come off as sincere? He sometimes forgot how scared he was of losing his friendship with one of his oldest friends. 

He nearly did once, he didn't want it to slip out of his fingers again.

He let out a deep sigh and put his phone aside. Trying to focus on the happy feelings. This was something good, one of the few things that were going well in his life lately. Or it at least felt that way.

He picked up his brush, but he froze when he gazed upon his painting. For the first time, he seemed to actually see what he had been drawing.  Having snapped out of his routine. What he had drawn. Was a picture of his own hand holding Error’s.

And his nonexistent soul sank into his stomach. Feelings becoming cloudy. 

How many times did that make this? He glanced around the room, seeing other canvases of similar pictures he had been drawing over the last few months. 

He had tried to do something different. It felt like he hadn’t even been thinking of Error at all!

But still. There it was in front of him. One of the many things that he and Error still couldn’t do. Error’s death had really fucked him up. It was like his whole body had been reset. But slowly, he was gaining back what he was lost. Able to give fist bumps to Killer. High fives with Blue and Lust. Everyone…except him. 

Error tried, but it always seemed to burn. The pain only seemed to increase with every single try. It had gotten so bad. He had to nearly beg Error to stop trying. Not liking the way it kept hurting him. It took a while to convince him. But he did listen…that was a month ago.

.

It hurt. They had gone years without touching. They still used a lot of techniques they learned from that time. But none of that compared to the real feeling of Error’s fingers between his own. His solid weight as they hugged. 

The electrifying way it felt as they kissed. 

He missed it…….

He missed it so fucking much. He thought he could live without touching Error again.

But…

Were these paintings, not proof of that NOT being the case?! Everywhere he looked in this room, there seemed to be a picture of them. 

Holding hands, cuddling, kissing. Or touching in some kind of way. 

What if they never could again? Would….would he get bored?! Would he stop caring for Error? He couldn’t do that. That be horrible. Error meant the world to him. Error let him feel all of this. Let him figure himself out, not force him to be something he is not. 

Somehow accepted his soulless state. Didn’t freak out, when he decided to go blank on some days when all the emotions became too much. But yet forcing him to drink if it seems he was depriving himself too much in the other direction. 

Error loved him, and it was terrifying.  

And how was he repaying that love? By longing for something the other couldn’t give. They were fine. They should be fine.  He thought as red anger seemed to consume him. 

He loves Error. He didn’t need the other's touch, it was just a few months with no contact. That didn’t compare to the years beforehand. Even for most of their relationship. Touching had just been a recent thing. 

It wasn’t fair that it had been taken away from them. The red-hot anger spread, chasing away all other feelings.  The picture in front of him came back into focus. 

He grabbed Broomie and slashed at the painting, covering it in a dark ink stain.

There.

That is what he deserved. He shouldn’t have these urges. There was nothing in his chest to conquer them. Yet he selflessly made them. What would Error think if he saw them?

He had to destroy them! He didn’t deserve to stare longingly at them!? Error was going through enough without him taking care of his emotionally stunted boyfriend. And he summons more ink to destroy another painting.

The red-hot anger started changing. Darkening into a sludgy black pool of self-hatred, and there was nothing he could do to stop it. Destroying more works in his anger and grief, letting a large pool of ink spill over his studio floor, as he knocked over cans of paint and canvases. All the while sobbing and screaming in angry frustration. 

Screaming, at the monster that killed Error, at the multiverse in general, but most of all himself, for not keeping his promises. 

Of not being enough for his lover. 

Eventually, most canvases had either been painted over with black streaks. Lying face down in the ink puddle beneath his feet. Or he had just broken the canvas clean in two.

All that was left was the biggest of them all. A large frame of both him and Error sitting on a swing near a tree. A work combining their first date, and first time holding hands into a single beautiful scene. 

It had been a work he was proud of. He had shown it to Error. He even surprisingly suggested he should hang it somewhere in his house. But he hadn’t found the perfect place for it yet. 

He looked up at it, a drop of yellow coming in an ocean of black. He raised Broomie above his head, ready to finish it off. When his momentum was suddenly stopped.  

He looked up to see Broomie stuck in a multitude of blue strings. With ice-cold fear, he turned around to see Error standing in the door opening arms outstretched. Strings attached to his fingers and  A look of panic on his face.

 “Ink!?”  

And when he heard that voice, so full of concern. Blue colors suddenly and quickly replaced all the black. The red-hot anger was replaced with regret. The Dark self-hatred still lurking below. But now replaced with deep sorrow. 

It made him sink to his knees and start openly wailing as the color overtook everything. He tried to stop the tears pressing his hands against his face, furiously wiping it. But every sob tore another from his body. 

“S-soory…i am sorry Error…forgive me…please…please”  

He started rambling, trying to get his emotions under control. But instead, he felt his insides turn, and he puked out a large amount of ink. 

When he was done, the overwhelming sensation was gone. But the feelings were still there. His throat hurt, but he was letting out soft hiccups instead of sobs at this point. He looked back up. To see Error hovering close by in front of him. Arms outstretched like he had wanted to grab him. Frustrating, clear in his eyes. 

“S-sorry..”  he started again 

“It’s okay, Kiki…it’s okay…just…let it all out okay…”  

Error took another step closer and he could feel that pulsing heat. That heat seemed to push them apart, like two wrong magnets pushing each other away. He leaned back so that Error would glitch less. Not looking at Error's face, afraid to hurt him further. 

Error let out another frustrated sound. Something heavy fell to the floor, probably Broomie. And he felt Errors strings circle his hands. But the mock handheld just made him feel worse. They were so pathetic, not even able to hold hands. 

“Ink?” 

 He shook his head. 

“Ink please…talk to me?”  

He shook his head harder. 

What was there to say? What could he possibly say that wouldn't sound completely insane? He was gonna lose Error. He was gonna figure out he couldn’t live without the touch and was gonna leave him as he should have ages ago. And he be all alone with his thoughts again. Unsure of whoever even ‘himself was’ 

More strings wrapped around his hands.

 “Come on, Squid”

There was a hint of frustration coming through his voice now.  

Error would realize that it was no use to spend time on him. That in the last few months he somehow had made more progress with his ex, Than with him. That all of this was a lost cause that he never should have - 

Blue strings wrapped around his torso so tightly that he nearly choked. Looking back up and started into Error’s worried eyes. And after a beat or two a realisation seemed to come over Error. 

“Have you been swallowing your paints again Kiki?” 

He blinked up at the other. 

Had he?

He tried to think back.

He remembered maybe once this morning…but that could have been yesterday as well?. He definitely did when he was painting to stay in that calm state he had been in. 

Did he do it afterward? Oh…when Pallete came to the phone, he had to swallow down his excitement as well as his disappointment.  He thought he had just pushed it down…But that would explain why he was feeling so crappy. 

Shit! He might have done it more than once in his conversation with Dream.

“I…didn’t …notice..”

 He said through a few sobs. And Error’s strings gently squeezed him.

“It’s alright…come on… let's get you out of this puddle”  

The strings started to fall away from his body, almost like they had been arms that had been wrapped around him. That thought made him sob again, and he scrambled for the strings before they could completely disappear... Holding them shakingly between his fingers as he  looked up at Error with a desperation he didn’t know under which color to classify 

Error’s look of surprise turned into a sad smile, and he mumbled 

“Should have known you liked being tied up in my strings” 

He laughed wearily at the innuendo. And the strings came back around his torso softly and lifted him up from the middle of the room. Dropping him right below one of the windows. Error plopping down next to him, some space left between them. All the while he stared at the strings connecting them. 

“What happened Inky… “ 

Error asked softly after some minutes of silence in which his sobs finally calmed down, and his emotions seemed to reach another equilibrium 

“I think you guessed already, I swall- 

“What triggered your outburst,” 

He shut his mouth with a click and brought his knees up to his face. Another few minutes of silence

“I saw what I had painted..”

From the corner of his eye, he saw Error tilt his head

“That usually makes you happy.” 

He shrugged, he didn’t want to think too hard about it. He might have puked most of his paints out. But not all. And if he indeed had kept swallowing down his paints, they would still be a murky mess inside of him. And didn’t want to trigger another episode 

He heard some angry glitches, but Error’s voice stayed calm. 

“Did your phone call with Dream affect how you looked at it?” 

He shook his head. 

“No, that went pretty well,” 

He could feel Error’s eyes on him even without looking up, hugging his knees harder 

“Are…Are you upset that it went well?”  Confusion was clear in his boyfriend's voice. 

He wanted to cry again and felt blue trying to come up, He tried to temp it down. 

“Hey, Ink stop, don’t fight your paints…not at this time” 

His hands started shaking, and shook his head.

Of course, Error noticed. Error knew him.

Even when he forgot who he was himself. 

“It’s not fair…” he mumbled softly.

“What…Ink?” Error said confused along with the sounds of soft buzzes of glitches. As another silence fell between them, only filled by his own occasional sob. 

He heard some sounds, not able to place them. So he looked up, seeing that Error had dragged one of the destroyed canvasses closer. There wasn’t much left of it, he had smeared pretty big globs of black ink on them, that was now dripping on Error's clothes.

Error seemed to glitch at them, but paid them no mind, rolling up his sleeve and rubbing the ink away with his arm, Eyes widening as he saw what was underneath. 

Error's head snapped his way, eyes wide. And dragged another painting close doing the same thing to it.

“What…the fuck Ink.” 

He closed his eyes in shame, burying his head back in his legs. He knew Error would hate them. That’s why he didn’t show them, he knew he had been holed up in here more nights than he could count. When Error was with others, or working. He was in here and painted his desires. 

The ones he couldn’t act on. That he promised to let rest. And now Error knew, and he would see how he had gone against his word and…

“If you are angry with me you can just Fucking say so, don’t gotta destroy your passion projects over it” 

His head shot up, and he looked at Error. Who was looking at the painting with a frown. But not an angry one. No…he…he almost looked. Sad? Then what Error had said seemed to land in his scattered brain and he quickly scrambled up to his knees. Error looking up as he did. 

“I ain't angry at you?! …Why?!?!…No..Never, none of this is your fault.”  

Error started at him eyes wide, 

 “Of….course…of fucking course how could I be so fucking stupid”  

“W-what?”  he asked, suddenly panicking. 

The strings around him tighten again, 

“I should have known you would be angry at yourself, somehow you always blame everything that goes wrong in our relationship on yourself” 

His own eyes widened. And Error leaned closer. He could feel the heat again, but he couldn’t look away. Error was staring right at him.  Different colors tried to rise up, but one never could stay, quickly replaced with another. Purple, pink, yellow, blue, green. All of them but he barely noticed only able to focus on his Love

“I thought I had said this before, but if I haven’t let me now. I don’t fucking blame you. For any of this Ink. It aint your fault I died. It aint your fault we can’t touch. It aint your fault that the recovery of it is going at a fucking snail's pace. Got it! None of that is your fault. I don’t fucking blame you, I ain't angry with you. And I am not upset that you miss being able to hold me. I’d be the biggest fucking hypocrite.” 

The strings were getting tight enough that they were probably leaving robe burn marks. But he couldn’t care. Could hardly believe what was going on. 

“B-but” 

“No fucking but’s Ink. Whatever your brain is telling you. It is aint true. I’d kiss you right now to fucking prove it, but I think we both know how that would end” 

The sound he let out was between a sob and a laugh. It be such a disaster. The only time they tried was on the first-day Error returned. And the scream the other had let out, still haunts his nightmares. It kept combining with Error’s death in those dreams. 

He closed his hands over the strings that ran over his palms, Squeezing them tight, tugging at them. Feeling Error tuck on them as well. 

He still felt like crap. And he wanted to believe Error. He so badly wanted to. But he couldn’t seem to get there. There had to be a tipping point. Maybe he didn’t blame him now. But it would not last forever and- 

“Ink. Stop it” Error Seemed to read exactly what was going on in his mind.

“I…I can’t”  he mumbled. “I wanna believe you Error. I really do..But…but..” 

His hands rose to his chest. The part of himself he disliked so much. Where you could see the proof of his soullessness. That part of him that was at the root source of all his problems.

There was another pause and he started at the space between them. He could see Error's knees and realized this must have been the closest Error had been in a month. The thought made him swallow another sob. 

“What would make you believe it.” 

“Huh?” 

He looked up back into Error’s eyes. They held a determined gleam 

“Tell me what you need Ink, What would make you believe my word, so I can say it, or do it. Until I can beat it into your skull, and you never doubt me again” 

“I….”  He paused.

What would make him believe it?  What would make him believe that Error didn’t hate him? That Error would stick with this, with them, Or that He would stick with Error?  Was there such a thing? 

“I don’t k-”  he stopped himself. 

That felt wrong to say. Here he was demanding proof. But he couldn’t think of anything himself. How was Error supposed to prove it then? 

He looked up back at Error’s face. Still looking determined, ready to spring into action. And he wanted to give an answer. 

Why was this so difficult, he just wanted Error to be happy. To be loved as much as he deserves. 

But he loves Error. And Error wants his love. And was he just…not giving it? If he trusted that Error could love him despite his soulless state. Then why didn’t he believe Error trusted that his soulless self loved Error? 

Now that he was thinking about it, it seemed kinda backwards, and selfish. To trust everything Error gave him. But not trust that Error knew that he was loved. 

Soft oranges and yellows finally managed to take hold of his body. Error believed in him. He was conceived it wasn’t his fault. He might not fully believe it himself. But he could believe in Error, that did believe that fact.

Error's face shifted as he saw the realization drawn on his own face. 

“Knock some sense into me from time to time, that is what you need to do apparently” 

Error laughed “I do that for fun any day” 

And he couldn’t help his own laugh. The strings on his hands tugged, lifting them to his face, he got the hint and held one of his own cheek in the way Error would. 

“I Love you, I don’t hate you, and I don’t blame you. For any of this, And I am sorry if I made you think I did”  

He shook his head.

 “It’s okay..I…Thank you…I should have told you sooner. That I was feeling all of this. I could have avoided this mess” 

Error glanced around the room.  

“Nothing we can’t fix”  

He raised a brow bone.

“You, fixing things?”  

Error gave a fake glare, and he felt his colors latch on to the familiar feeling of seeing it

“Says the Protector that destroyed this room”  

But then Error’s eyes turned serious again. Settling back down next to him, if a bit closer than before.  

“We do need to find a way to prevent this from happening, for both our sakes I think..” 

He gave a nod, 

“Yeah only so much can be blamed on me swallowing my ink”  

Error nodded. “Wanna do this now, or wait till the murkiness has passed” 

He glanced around the room, seeing the black ink everywhere. And he thought back to how he felt. That darkness swallowing him whole. It had been an extreme reaction to the swallowing and mixing of already mixed paint. 

As much as he wanted to let it pass and recenter himself.

It was better to deal with this now. Besides everything had mixed up so bad, that at this point he had to go blank to get rid of it all. And who knows what he would remember of this incident afterward. 

So with he sigh, he leaned back against the wall. 

“Now…but I am unsure of where to start” he started, 

The orange and yellows have faded, right now settling on something of a mixture of purple and green. 

Error hummed “Gimme a moment to think then.” 

Error closed his eyes. And he just spends the time listening to the sounds of his boyfriend's static. Admiring the other as the light from the window hit him Making the blue streaks on his face almost seem to glow. 

Error opened his eyes and turned to face him, and he shook his head to get rid of his dreamy thoughts.

“Based on what you said before, were you afraid that me seeing your paintings…would make me hate you?”  

He gave a slow nod  And there was a frown on the other's face. 

“Why?  You’ve drawn me more times than I can fucking count, with and without my permission I might add?  So why now? “

He gave an embarrassed chuckle 

“It’s not the fact that I drew you…but more what I made you do in them” 

Errors eyebrow rose all the way up.

“You have drawn porn of m-” 

“Erotica” He cut him off, and Error waved him off

“Same fucking thing. But besides the point, What I wanted to point out is. You have drawn me in way more “scandalous”- “ 

 He quoted his fingers to emphasize his point. 

 “- positions. Wich, I have told you I didn’t mind as long as you didn’t show them to anyone else”  

He flushed, he had been quite embarrassed that Error had found them. But his Glitch had surprised him. He had been embarrassed sure, but also it also seemed to give Error a huge ego boost. Not that he had needed it. Espeasily when he had seen the one he had made in the hot spring. 

The error had invited him to draw him more afterward. And he had taken him up on that offer on multiple occasions. The fact that he stayed on the shore, while Error was half-naked in the water was perfect for him. 

The thought of taking his shirt off and joining in terrified him. Not wanting such an intimate act to be tainted by a crash, or anything else stupid he might do. No, he quite liked what they got

 Error continued on 

“So…I don’t get what the big deal is with these?” 

He clicked his teeth, trying to find the words to explain himself. He knew why, it felt a lot more stupid than before. But there was a part of him, that was still afraid. He could feel purple and dark blue try to overtake him. 

But he took a good look at Error, who seemed genuinely confused. Remembering the almost sad look he had gotten. His boyfriend didn’t like the clutter all his art projects caused. But he seemed perfectly content to be the main subject of his inspiration. So to have seen him destroy paintings of them…

Yeah, he can see now how that could have looked to Error. He tried to call forth some orange, and with a trembling voice he managed to speak about his fears. 

“I thought…that if you knew…how much I longed to touch you again,  you might be angry with me. I mean…I promised you…that…that when we first began dating.  That if this would ever happen..that it wouldn’t matter”  

He let out a shuddering breath, staring hard at Error's chest, it was easier than looking into the too-knowing eyes

“That no matter how bad your phobia would get. That it would change nothing…I was afraid…seeing this…you realized I had broken that promise” he muttered softly. 

“Because It does matter to me…that we can’t touch…it…it hurts a lot.” It felt scary to admit. 

“Not that I would ever leave you over it! “  He quickly stated, looking up, to see Error surprise face at this outburst, and he quickly looked back at the other's chest.

“But just…it’s a lot harder than I thought it would be” 

The silence between them felt heavy, then a dry chuckle came from Error and he looked up, and saw Error staring down…looking towards him. But not to his face. Just like had been staring at the other's chest. He wondered what he was focussing on. 

“I….forgot about that promise…” 

He blinked surprised and he turned to face his lover.

“You did? But…you made it so-” 

Error held up his hand, and he fell quiet. 

“I am not surprised you remembered. And I ain't surprised I made you promise. Dunno if I just forgot, or if it is a memory my death has taken from me…”  

He felt himself react to the mention of Error's death again. And he saw the other eyes narrow knowingly, But Error continued on. 

“But either way, I think it made you hold yourself up to an impossible standard.” 

Error let out an angry huff at himself, crossing his arms, and frowned deeper.

“I don’t think I would make that promise with the intention that you weren’t allowed to have any feelings about it at all…I just didn’t want it to be a dealbreaker.  “ 

His eyes widened.  

“Of course, it will never be!”

 And Errors eyes met his, seeming ready to rebuttal him but he continued.

“No matter, how much I long to touch, hold, hug, and kiss you again. That you feel comfortable is way, way more important to me. I never want you to feel forced to touch me. So it ain't a dealbreaker at all! Never was, to begin with. I am not the brightest, But I knew who I started dating. And if I ever made you feel like that- “  

“You never did. ”

 He felt his face erupt in a light blush

“It’s the same for me…”

Error mumbled.  Then he saw a shot of anger on his face. 

“ I WANT to touch you as well. Not because I feel forced to or some bullshit. But because I just miss it. I never even thought I could fucking miss it.  And it sucks. “

Error's face gained another emotion, and he realised it was the same as his. Self-loathing. 

“It fucking sucks so much. I just wish I could just reach out and hold your hand again. To just lay together without worry if we accidentally brush shoulders. Even you puking ink in my face as we kiss or just - “ 

“-simply give a chaste kiss?  Pull you along by the arm on our dates? Just be close again in general?”  He interrupted the other softly 

Error eyes widened and then gentled in understanding

 “yeah…” then another dry chuckle 

“Have…have we seriously both been worried about the fact. That we both just miss being as close as we were before all this fucking mess?” 

He tugged at the strings wrapped around his hands 

“Guess so…” 

Error sighed and mumbled disbelievingly.

“How did we manage to avoid talking about this for four months straight?”  

“Dunno…like I said…I thought you’d be angry. And with everything else. I just didn’t wanna add that on top of it?”  

Error let out another deeper sigh 

“And I thought, you must have known my frustration was at the situation, not at you”  

“At least we know now?”

But that didn’t really erase the last few months of pain they both felt. That now felt like had been completely unnecessary and avoidable 

They both just sat in that newfound knowledge, letting it settle in. Part of him was really upset. Part of him was relieved, it was the bigger part. But it couldn’t drown out all the dark colors sadly 

“Speaking of things we avoided talking about,” Error said with a grunt and he knew what was coming. 

“It has been four months, and we haven’t talked about the situation, that got us to this in the first place at all….have we?” 

He gave a nod. It had not been on purpose. They had talked a bit in those first few days. But focused more on both their anger surrounding the whole situation with Errors return. 

Then Error also had to stay a lot in the antivoid. His body clearly recovered much faster there if he was on his own. 

The Balance also had kept him away. He didn’t want it tipping too much either way, but there had been a push in his mind to take advantage of it. To increase his territory. He knew that push. He hated it at times. It could help him make the most wonderful of creations. It could make him do the most heinous things. 

Always trying to get more and more. Pushing him to listen to one more creator request. Check out one more Au in case it needs protecting. Strengthen the defenses of the new Au’s until they are ready to interact with the multiverse. 

He had learned to deal with that urge, learned where his own desires ended and the multiverses began. Most of the time they were the same. He had this role for a reason. He fulfilled it happily. But every job has its downside. 

And that first month the ugly side of it showed up. He had tried to keep the scales balanced in his lovers absence, hoping that it would accelerate his return, then kept it so he could recover. His job was protecting all universes. And the multiverse didn’t seem to enjoy that he wasn’t taken advantage of the power vacuum. He had managed to keep that urge at bay, by exhausting himself. 

Blue wasn’t very happy when he found out.  He made him promise not to tell Error. As far as he knew…Blue hadn’t. 

And after that first month. He had been so focused on figuring out what he and Error could and could not do anymore. How to help. How to just have dates where they both enjoyed themself. He had wanted to focus on the now. Error had seemingly wanted that as well. 

The strings around his ribs tightened softly and it once again reminded him of a hug. 

“Talk to me Ink” 

He let his hands settle against the strings around his ribs, fingertips gliding over them softly.

“It’s…hard..” 

Not because he didn’t remember. Far from it. It was seemingly burned into his brain, just like holding Error’s hand for the first time, or their first kiss. But this was one he rather forget. 

“It sucked..?”  

He started, he could hear the sobs trying to form as the blue paints tried to overtake him like before. 

Error huffed gently.

“If you made an understatement this century, that would be it”  

At the words, a burst of yellow bled through like a dotted pattern 

“Do…do you…remember what happened?” He asked softly.

Error shook his head. 

“Not really? Bits and pieces, but not the whole thing.  But I know what happened”  

“Blue?”  

Error nodded. And he wondered what Blue had said. About how he reacted, but knowing his friend. He might have just kept it at what happened to Error. Probably thought this was a conversation they should have themselves, and he didn’t blame him. 

He felt his bones rattle as much as they could in the strings hold. Following the quivering thread all the way to Errors fingers. Staring at the way he saw the other rub his thumb at the other end. 

If they could touch, Error might have been rubbing his back. Or nuzzled against his skull.  He gave a silent little tug a started with and sigh. 

“...I was too busy helping…I don’t remember who… but I was getting them out of the way, And I turned around and see you get hit with this giant blaster beam. I think I dropped who I was helping, and raced my way over to you. The attack stopped, and instead of attacking back, you just…you just fell right out of the air,” 

He remembered the terror. Error had died before, but he had never seen it. At the time all he knew was that he had been hurt, he wasn’t sure if that beam would have been enough to kill Error. But they had been fighting that stupid gaster blaster beast for a while. It had absorbed most of their attacks. They all had lost hp, and he didn’t know how much Error had left

It had felt like slow motion watching Error fall, the blue of his scarf trailing behind him, body so very limb. Not a hint of his angry boyfriend in sight. 

“I remember checking you as I got closer. You were so low on hp, And the rest of the bar had been pink with karmic retribution. And it was slowly draining the rest. I teleported beneath you, caught you…and we landed. But by the time I could start my healing, you had hit zero already” 

He was hiccuping with sobs again. And the strings squeezed him gently once more. 

“I tried to stop it…I ain't the best healer…but I threw all the intended I could behind it  - “ 

“I know Kiki...  “  Error interrupted him, and he met the other's eyes. 

There was a gentleness in them that he knew was rare. That last time he saw it, it was followed up by a day of cuddling on the couch. His magic ached knowing that can’t happen this time. He wondered if Error thought of the same thing. 

“I felt your magic…I couldn’t see or hear. But I knew you were there.”

 A rosy sort of color rose in his chest. Somewhere between red and pink. It was warm, nowhere near the feelings of sunsets and warm skies he got while kissing. But something similar. 

But icey blue came back as he remembered what had happened next. 

“Y-you turned to dust in my arms….” 

His voice was barely more than a whisper.

“y-you were there…i was holding you..and then slowly…you just..seemed to crumble away…and then…you were…gone..” 

The words barely made it past his teeth. 

He had been begging near the end, screaming for it to stop. For Error to hold on, that he could fix it. But in the end, he just sat there on the ground, covered in dust as the battle continued on around him. 

He had never felt so empty, never been as scared. Not as far as he can remember at least. He knew he got angry, that he single-handedly killed the creature that had taken Error from him. But he doesn’t remember more than the blind grief-stricken rage. 

The next thing he does remember is that Blue and Dream were holding him. Screaming and begging him to stop. His fist was bloody with marrow as he had kept on hitting the ground where he had killed the beast. Head to toe covered in Errors and the giant monster's dust. Bursting out crying in their arms. Until it all became too much, and throwing up the last of his paints. 

It took them several days to coax him to drink them again. Now that he thinks back on it, that might be the first time Dream hugged him since their breakup years before. He hadn’t even done his whole, must try and safe everyone speech… 

God, of course, Dream wouldn’t have given that speech at the time…even if had been more coherent. What an awful way to think about a friend…

Something warm wrapped around his shoulders, he looked up from where he had buried his head into his knees again. Errors strings were dropping Error's long coat around his shoulders, trying to cocoon him in it. 

“Ru…?” he mumbled confused, wiping at the tears on his face. 

“You…always buried your nose in this when we hugged…since I can’t hug you.… I thought I could trick your brain into thinking we were…cause...Fuck it Ink… I didn’t…I didn’t know okay… and I…Fuck..” 

Error's eyes seemed to be burning like he was holding back tears. Even if had let tears fall, the tracks on his face would hide them. One of his hands came up to one of the lapels, pulling the jacket closer to himself.  As Error fiddled with the strings seeming to refuse to look at him. 

“I fucking tried to hold on, I should have been paying more attention. It was such a stupid mistake. But I was keeping track of Blue. Making sure he wasn't hit, And then…” 

Error’s voice stuttered out and let out several beeps, and he saw some error signs fill his eyes. 

He rose to his knees. 

“Error..?”

The minor crash passed, and Error shook his head and continued on, 

“I should have asked Blue for more details. No wonder you have been so all over the place inky. And…fuck just because I had been stupid? I dunno what I would have done if it had been you?…destroyed half the multiverse before I came to my senses. Yet you…you didn’t.  You kept the balance, and have just been trying to make the best of a shitty situation.” 

Error clenched his fist, and the strings tightened again. And he could feel the anger through the magic. 

“ I remember how happy you were when I came back. I thought that at points you were forcing yourself to feel happy. And you might have…but…you did that…to avoid thinking of this right?”  

Error turned to look at him, 

All he could do was nod, and to his surprise, some stray tears fell from his boyfriend's eyes. He wished he could come over and kiss them away. 

“Fuck Dust and Dream man. I thought they were being assholes that day. But this. If I get my hands on Dust, Fuck that scare I gave him last time wasn’t nearly enough punishment.  Oh and Dream? Fucking dreamboat?! He was there! I remember And then He was just gonna fucking yell at you for being excited it returned?! Don’t even get me started!!“ 

His magic was rushing through his body at record speed. Making him feel a little lightheaded. That Error was angry on his behalf even after all this time That he was feeling for him…what he did back then. But had no way to express at the time. It was doing things to him. It made him happy. But he also knows that he didn’t blame either of those two.

“Enough! Error….Enough…don’t go hurt either of them, please. Dust got what he deserved. And Dream and I have resolved this ourselves, you know what was going on with him at the time. It ain't an excuse for what he did. But he wasn’t in the best place. I have decided to forgive him…I don’t want you hunting him down” 

Dreams comment at the time had hurt. It had dug at his own insecurity of his soulless state, as well as his relationship with Error. Luckily blue had stepped in. But Dream had forgiven him for doing much worse. It was hard, but he cared too much about Dream. And even thou their relationship was currently strained. He knew Dream did too. 

The amount of time he had spent helping him in the months after Error’s death attested to that. 

Error was still glaring angrily, And he shuffled closer, where he could feel the warmth of the pushing sensation. Trying to keep them apart.  

“I am not asking you to forgive them…just…please don’t go after them. I won’t even stop you if you decide to grill Dream about it, 'cause I know you will, no matter what I think of it. Just please…” 

Error huffed, still clearly upset. 

“I ain't forgiving them”  

And with that, he knew Error wouldn’t try to harm either of them. And he gave a genuine smile

 “Thank you, Ruru” 

And for the first time that night, he saw Error's beautiful yellow blush covering his cheeks. 

His own chest filled up with a soft yellowish pink. 

“Thank you for telling me about all this Ink, I promise to make it up to you”  The other muttered softly into his scarf, then a bit clearer 

“…How are you feeling now?” 

He swayed a bit back and forth.

 “Pink…”

He replied softly, and Errors blush rose and became more flustered. Error grabbed a tube he used to store papers in,  And then softly bonked him on the head with it, 

He couldn’t help the laugh that escaped him as Error mock yelled. 

“That aint what I was talking about and you know it you annoying Squid” 

He grabbed the tube yanking it out of Error's hands,

“I know~”

And gave a soft bonk against the others head in return, before dropping it and letting it roll away. 

“I am feeling…better, bit lightheaded…must be nearly out of paint…But I think…talking helped. Don’t think it got rid of everything…but don’t think I am gonna do…” 

 He glanced around the room with a sad smile…

“Well…anything like this”  

Error gave a nod, with a little frown. 

“We gotta talk more about this shit, even if we both think we don’t need to. We clearly fucking do. “ 

He nodded in agreement 

“Easier said than done…”  

“Aint that the truth…but I’ll try for you Kiki” 

“And I for you Ruru”  

They both smiled at each other and then he leaned back with a sigh. Feeling his eyesockets fighting to stay open, the colors in him became more muted as he ran on the last fumes. 

“Tired?”  Error muttered settling in as close as he dared. 

He nodded, “Probably for the best if I stay blank for a day, to make sure I got rid of all the sludge.”  

The strings around his torso tightened  like a soft squeeze from Error's arms 

“I remember what to do, and I’ll call Blue if need be” 

He gave another nod and heard the sound of a glitchy portal opening. Error probably getting supplies. But he felt something against his side, opening his eyes again, he recognized the pattern of Error’s crochet blanket.  

He didn’t pull it out often, but it was warm and smelled of him, And it was thick. But Error didn’t lay it over him, No he crumbled it up into a makeshift barrier, and with a soft pull of his strings gently coaxed him against it, while Error laid on the other side. 

Close but not touching. He could feel the pulsing heat again. Error should feel it too, and it was probably aggravating his glitches. But it was hard to fight off sleep, as Error was closer than he had been in months. Mind focusing on the feeling of strings still gently around his torso. On the smell of the warm coat that was being rewrapped around him, cocooning him against the blanket. 

And all he could feel was Error. 

“Love you…” He mumbled.

He heard a bit more static as his eyes fell closed. Knowing he was safe, feeling better than he had in a long while. The last of his paints manifested into a small rainbow flush on his face, coaxing him gently into a dreamless sleep. 

[rebeccalouisaferguson]

Rebecca Ferguson interviewed by Perrine Quennesson for Cinema Teaser (October 2019)

The Swedish actress spotted in Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation discusses her involvement in the sequel of The Shining, Doctor Sleep (in theatres October 30/critic under embargo), her relationship to genre cinema and her dream of French nationality.

What is your relationship to The Shining movie?

I always preferred the books of Stephen King to adaptations. But, to be quite frank, I never read ‘The Shining’, however, I read a lot of others. I saw the Stanley Kubrick movie while I was surely too young to fully appreciate it. I saw it again later, because it was a feature film that had to be seen, and maybe because I was more mature, I knew how to love it more and now I am very fond of what was created by Kubrick. Moreover, it is very hard to emancipate from such a work while remaining in continuity. But I think Mike Flanagan has really succeeded with Doctor Sleep.

The Shining takes its time to create a terrifying atmosphere of suffocating unease. We are far from certain current horror productions. Is this the direction that Mike Flanagan took also?

Totally, but I think that’s what he did with most of his films. There is always an underlying threat. And with Mike’s, it comes regularly from the past. I saw all his movies and series before working with him, and it’s often a question of a wounded being whose past resurfaced creating a tightness at home that brings the tension. And it's not so much the action that counts for Mike as the character's fight against his loneliness, his fear and the strength of his survival instinct. It’s brilliant and it also shows the importance of every element of a movie whether it’s the photography, calibration or music, because it is with this ensemble that we create the atmosphere. And Kubrick had already done it well in The Shining.

You said that before working with Mike Flanagan, you had seen all his work. But were you familiar with his work before meeting him?

Not really. I knew what he had done but since he is a horror film director and that I am not, at first glance, really interested in this genre, I had never been attracted to his work. But that’s interesting when you start a new project. Previously, never in my life would I have said ‘Go watch a horror movie a Friday night with a packet of popcorn or chocolate ’. 

But while doing my research, watching his films, I realised that horror was much more than jumpscares. I understood from Mike's work that there was a lot more nuance and depth and that it deals with strong topics such as grief, fear or mourning. Better, I sometimes surprise my husband at night saying 'What if we watch a horror movie?' and it makes him laugh. I like this feeling in my belly, it’s a bit like watching someone sing really badly in X Factor. It’s terrible, we feel bad for them but we cannot stop looking and laugh to dispel the discomfort.  There is only one movie of Mike’s that I did not manage to see until the end, and it was Gerald’s Game, which is also an adaptation of Stephen King, I was too uncomfortable.

You come from Sweden, but for a few years now you have made a name for yourself in American cinema, especially thanks to Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation.

I never see what I do geographically. I do not say 'Well, I want to do American cinema'. By the way, I’ve never shot in Los Angeles, I shot a bit in New York but most of the time, filming is in Europe, London, Budapest, Sweden, South Africa. The production may be American, but filming is borderless.

There is no difference between American and European cinema according to you?

Let’s say it’s not so simple. There are tons of American directors who make independent movies and if you did not know anything about their nationality, you might think they are European. We love to generalise but it’s not so true. Look at Margot Robbie in I, Tonya; the production is 100% American, on an American subject, but honestly, if it had come from Europe, it would not have surprised me. I hate the idea of saying 'Oh my god, I come from Europe so my dream is to succeed in the United States’ because that’s absolutely not the case. The cinema, in my opinion, is much more than that, it is a place of diversity. I would love to shoot everywhere, France, Greece, Hungary, Chicago, Los Angeles, whatever. Look at my friends Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg who did Kon-Tiki and also Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. The production is American but they are Norwegians, so where is the film from? And it’s also a question of team. For example, I just did Dune. The film is made by a Quebecker, Denis Villeneuve, and includes a Franco-American actor Timothée Chalamet, another, Spanish, Javier Bardem and a Swede, me. The film is produced by Warner Bros. The interest is therefore the mixture of cultures, each bringing a little of it. I am ready to fight for this idea.

So you would be ready to shoot in France?

But yes, so much! By the way, I would have loved to be French. I love the musicality of french and your special way of not having to give a fuck. It is effortless for you, it does not mean that you are not humble or nice, it simply means that we do not need to make tons [of smalltalk], which unfortunately many people do. My aunt is French, I often come to Paris and I am terribly disappointed not to speak your language. But when I say a French word, it gives me an immediate sensation of pleasure all over my body. When I was small, I told my mother that there had a problem at my birth. I was not born in the right nationality.

[stay-curious]

Right Where You Left Me | Chapter 2

Series masterlist

Pairing: Natasha Romanoff x Fem!Reader | Actress!Natasha Romanoff x Singer!Reader

Summary: Your debut single puts you in the spotlight and one night you meet a redhead who will turn your world around. How will both of your jobs affect your relationship?

Warnings: fluff, alcohol, slight mention of SMUT at the end, AU

A/N: For the purpose of this fic, please imagine every song title as written by the character. English is not my first language so there might be some errors.

It’s 10 AM, you have just landed at LAX and the one thing you really need right now is your morning cup of coffee. One must think that after sleeping through the entire flight you would not be dragging your feet through the airport floor. After a short ride home, you leave your suitcase on your bed reminding yourself to unpack later and take a quick shower. Then, you freshen up a bit, put on a white t-shirt, grey sweatpants, and your favorite Airforce and you head out. 

It’s a nice and warm day, and your lack of energy makes the perfect excuse to grab an iced coffee from the café across your apartment. There's no other place that makes it like them, the freshly brewed coffee beans, and the earthy bitter taste of it remind you of the days you used to make breakfast with your dad as a kid. You enter and Grace starts making your usual. One of the perks of your best friend being the barista, and getting free pastries from time to time.  

You start your way to the studio and as you anticipated, it’s going to be a long day. Usually, you wouldn’t stay long but after finishing promoting the single there’s a lot of pressure from the label to finish the EP. There are a couple of songs you need to finish and one that is half done so you’re hoping to finish the lyrics and record today. Regardless, you can’t get around to writing the rest of the last one. The high expectations set by the first single makes you feel as if any song you make would not be good enough. That’s what has mostly slowed down the creation process, the lyrics don’t make sense, the melody doesn’t fit, etc.

After a couple of hours, it’s time for a lunch break so you go to the Mexican place a couple of streets away to get a burrito bowl. Ever since you moved to LA, it has been one of your go-to restaurants, mostly because the food there makes your mouth water only by its smell, but also because of its closeness to the studio. You can’t recall the number of times you’ve come to clear your mind from the chaos surrounding the studio. Its atmosphere gives off a sense of serenity that allows you to focus on what you set out to do that day.

Once you’ve ordered, you sit down at a table in the corner of the room. The place was almost empty as most people had already had lunch. you’re scrolling through Instagram when a notification pops up, a message from Natasha. Your face instantly lights up and you tap to see it.

Hey! Hope you had a safe flight :)

What are you up to?

I did. Thanks for checking in x

Nothing much. having lunch before going

 back to the studio and finish a song

wbu? 

You type the last message as you think about how someone you met yesterday can have this effect on you. The two of you had fun and you'd like to do it again sometime. You can’t help but think that it might be too soon to ask her out as much as you’d like for this to lead to something more. Before you let your mind wander, her reply comes.

Slept until 12 PM and ordered lunch from room service 

I’m meeting my sister for dinner in a few 

So your day was quite productive haha

you could say that

still much left to do tho

You suddenly get the courage to ask her about the offer she accepted at the bar, about her inviting you to a drink when you’re back in LA. 

About yesterday’s invitation,

Is it still standing?

Depends

Her answer leaves you taken aback but you still take the shot.

On what exactly?

Would you take me on a date first?

Now that was not a reply you expected from her, but again, she was the one that acted so bold yesterday. You take the opportunity to tease her about it.

Miss Romanoff you're a bit too forward, aren’t you?

Yes, I would very much like to take you out

Great. Next Friday, pick me up at 6

Hope that one week is enough time to plan it 

oh you're on

You won’t regret it ;)

After sending that last message, you go back to the studio to make the final touches to the song and before it’s dinner time, you have already left the studio. On the way home you quickly make a stop at the supermarket to grab some groceries for dinner and make a mental note to stop by tomorrow and buy the rest for the week.

When you get home, you start by washing and cutting some vegetables as well as some sweet potatoes. You put the veggies in a pan and season them with some garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. While it’s cooking you put the diced potatoes on a baking sheet and put them in the oven. You pour a glass of red wine and wait for it to cook. Once the veggies and potatoes are done, you plate them and start eating.

You spend most of the dinner thinking about ideas for the date with Natasha but none of them feel perfect. That’s one of the traits you hate about yourself, you are an overachiever and a perfectionist, so you tend to be too hard on yourself. A dinner date is too cliché for the first date but a safe option; going to the movies might be awkward at some points, god what a mess. You tidy up the kitchen and pour another glass while you go through the tv to see which show you should watch tonight. You decide on Grey's Anatomy and by the third episode has ended, your body succumbs to sleep.

It is Tuesday and everything seems to run smoothly: you are almost done for the day in the studio and your manager is sorting the details for a possible tour; except that you still have not decided where to take Natasha. You’ve been so busy with recording the songs that you completely left it aside. Speaking of the redhead, you’ve been texting occasionally, she arrived yesterday and has been doing interviews for the movie. Because of that, you want this date to be a thing for her to unwind and have fun after an eventful week. 

You get home and leave your stuff on the kitchen island. You can’t complain about the place you were able to get after spending 4 months here. It’s a small but cozy loft in an apartment complex, which is in a nice neighborhood. The kitchen opens to a dining table and in the back a living room. The stairs on the right lead to the bedroom and bathroom. Thankfully, you had a few savings from the summer jobs, and you were able to afford it. Once your hands are free from your belongings, your phone rings. It’s Grace. You put it on speaker as you get started with dinner. You put her up to speed with how the EP is going and what’s left to finish. 

Dinner is ready, the call with Grace is still ongoing, and you have changed into your pajamas. At some point, you mention Natasha, and she instantly bombards you with questions. You answer them, trying not to forget any. She hasn’t talked to you that frequently because of the promo of the single and it’s obvious as you can feel her beaming with this gossip. As soon as you finish telling her all about Natasha and your date on Friday, you end the call promising to meet up for lunch on Sunday. 

The clock marks 11 PM and the only thing left for you to do is to finalize the details of the date. You pick the outfit because you don’t want to stress over one more thing while also making sure everything is perfect and because you like having things planned in advance. When you’re done, you turn in for the day, a feeling of nervousness settling in your stomach as you close your eyes and try not to think about the end of the week. 

You continued with your work in the studio. The rest of the week went by rather slowly to your taste, it must have been because of your anxiousness. It’s been a long time since you last went on a date, and you don’t intend to make a fool of yourself. At the beginning of the week, you let your manager know that you would take Friday off. 

It’s Friday morning and you make your last trip of the morning to run one last errand and pick up a small bouquet of orange tulips, which stands for a deeper sense of understanding and appreciation between two people. When you get home, you heat up some leftover chicken and cut some tomatoes and lettuce to make a salad for lunch. After you’ve finished eating, which by the way was incredibly delicious, you put the plates in the sink and wash the pans you’ve used too. You decide to clean up a bit and take a short nap before you start to get ready. You wake up and realize you don’t know where Natasha lives, so you send her a quick text.

need I remind you if i’m taking you on a date 

i need your address to pick you up?

it completely slipped my mind

*insert address*

see you later Boston

thank you. I won’t be late 

You get inside the shower not without first putting on your playlist to try to loosen up a little, a mix of your favorite songs plays in the background as you get ready. You slip on your mom-fit jeans followed by a plain white t-shirt, which you tuck in, and your Docs. You let your hair dry in the air to then put on some light makeup, not overdoing it. You spray a few flushes of perfume to finish up and you make your way to the door. You pick a leather jacket and the bouquet and walk to the car. 

Once you’re inside, you put the address on the GPS and head over. When you arrive, you get out of the car and approach her doorstep with the flowers behind your back. You knock a couple of times and after a few seconds, the door opens, letting the redhead come into view. Your eyes go up slowly, taking every inch of her in until they meet her face, a sweet smile plastered. She’s wearing black jeans, a black shirt that accentuates her figure, and black boots. Your eyes stay longer than you should have so you try to disguise it with a chuckle.

“You look absolutely gorgeous Natasha.” The words leave your mouth before you have time to think about it.

“So do you.” She replies. “What do you have behind your back?” She asks with curiosity. 

“Uh um… these are for you,” you answer handing her the bouquet. 

“Thank you. You shouldn’t have.” She tells you, a hint of surprise in her voice. “I’m going to…” She signals to the inside of the house. You nod in response as you wait for her to come back. 

You silently head to where the car’s parked, you open the door for her, and you quickly round the car to get in. The ride is rather short, about 20 minutes so you turn on the radio. There’s an awkward silence that fills the space. You grip my hands on the wheel and take a deep breath. There’s intimidating. After a while, Natasha looks at me and asks, “where are you taking me?”

“It's a surprise, if I tell you I will spoil it.” You say with a serious tone, trying to keep a small smile from forming on your face. “No but seriously. I think you’d like it”. She laughs and hums in acknowledgment.

“We’re almost there.” You inform her. A few moments later you arrive at the destination. You get out and go around the car to open the door for her. She takes a quick glance at her surroundings and her eyes fill with excitement. You offer your hand and she gladly takes it as you make your way to the arcade bar. The moment you take a step in, 90s pop music hits your ears. The walls are painted black with details in neon blue and pink, and vinyl art. It might seem small from the outside, but you realize how spacious it is once you get inside. To the left, there’s a restaurant with booths that match the colors of the place, neon blue, pink, and black. The arcade machines are situated on the right side of the building and on the back, separated by glass walls, the bowling alley. 

Firstly, you head to the counter to sign up for two bowling games and the worker kindly hands you the shoes and tells you which lane is ours. You settle in your booth, take your jacket off and leave it with the rest of your belongings. You put on the bowling shoes and Natasha goes to pick up a ball as she starts throwing. You are near the end of the first game and winning by a landslide, so you take the opportunity to tease Natasha. 

“Didn’t you say and I quote ‘I’m going to crush you’?” you nudge her shoulder with yours. 

“Oh shush. The next game is mine.” The green-eyed replies with sass.

“We’ll see about that”

She definitely stuck to her words. She ended up beating you and rubbed it on your face all the way to the arcade games. You let her pick the next game and she leads you to the basketball machine. You start this time, so you make a show of stretching your arms. You quickly get the hang of it and hit the record right before the buzzer rings. She rolls her eyes and mutters “show-off.” It’s her turn, she gets in position and starts shooting as many balls as she can. Surprisingly, she’s doing quite well, but she’s nowhere near your mark. You cheer on her whilst you stare at the cute face she makes when she’s focused.

The buzzer goes off, signaling the end of the game. Natasha lets out a sigh of defeat when she looks at the score. You offer her a smile of reassurance and lead her to the Skeeball machines. You decide to be on the same team this time to try to win as many tickets as you can. 

“Can we play air hockey next?” She asks with a pleading look.

“Of course, whatever you want.” You say

Natasha rolls the sleeves of her shirt up, an air of confidence surrounds every move she makes. Feeling as if someone was watching her, she turns her head and catches you staring. You mentally stumble to form an apology but relax as she throws a wink at you. The game starts and she is already up 2 points. You’ve got the feeling that you might regret your cocky attitude from earlier. As you predicted, she wins the first game easily, but you ask for a second one, alleging that she was quite distracting. You’re currently tied but just as you think your hit is going in, she blocks it and scores the winning point, taking advantage of your bewildered state. She shoots her arms up in victory while shouting and jumping. You might have lost and your ego took a big hit. However, the sight in front of you has you smiling from ear to ear like a fool. On the other hand, she definitely has redeemed herself from the basketball defeat with the last two games of air hockey. 

You leave the handles on the table, go round the table and meet her in the middle. You get closer to Natasha as you lean on the table, placing your hand on the edge. She does the same, but her hand falls on top of yours. A simple touch that makes your heart race and your breath hitch.

“Nat, …” You start but soon realize the nickname that slipped your mouth.

“Nat?” She asks in a voice full of surprise. Your cheeks immediately go red and you fluster.

“Whoops, it slipped out, sorry.” You try to apologize as quickly as you can.

“No. Don't. I like it. It's cute. Say it again.” She answers.

You ask what you intended in the beginning. “Nat, are you hungry or not yet?” She nods in response. “I was thinking about going to a drive-through and then eating dinner in a park if you are up to”

“Yeah, that sounds nice.” You exit the arcade and approach the car and drive to an In and Out that is close. The two of you each order a burger and fries but Natasha also gets a vanilla milkshake. Then you head to a park that is usually not so crowded or empty. When you park outside, you take a blanket out of the boot and you make your way inside. You walk until you reach a secluded spot, under a tree, but light enough to see. Once you settle on the blanket, you start to dig in. You fall into a comfortable conversation, asking questions to keep getting to know each other.

“So what’s up with you calling me Boston?”

She takes a bite of her burger and replies. “Dunno. You mentioned the other night that you studied there. Also, calling you (y/n/n) just seemed too lazy. I wanted something more original”

“Do you think Nat is lazy?” You wonder hurt by her statement.

“No. Not at all. I like how it sounds when you say it.” you blush at her response as she continues talking. “I just I like to be thoughtful with nicknames” 

You’ve finished your burger but still have some fries left, the redhead has eaten her burger and fries. You thought she might still be hungry as she reaches for your fries and grabs a couple. Nonetheless, her intentions are completely far from that. As you catch on to what she’s going to do next, you decide to speak up. 

“Tell me that you’re not thinking about what I think you are.”

She giggles, with a knowing smirk on her face. “What?” She begins to dip the fries into the milkshake and proceeds to eat them. 

“Are you insane? THAT is the definition of pure madness.” you watch her with a look of disbelief on your face. “You did not just steal my fries to dip them into a milkshake. You Natasha Romanoff are full of surprises. What other unknown fact should I know about you?”

“I keep my promises, but there’s one I had not had the chance to keep” you raise an eyebrow at that.

“What are you going to do about it?”

“Well, if you’re up for it, would you like to go to my place and have that drink I owe you?”

“Yeah, let me clean up, then we’ll go.”

After the walk back, you’re in the car on your way to her house. You take a look at the clock and see that it’s 1O PM, a great time to have a drink and end the night. 

You pull up in her driveway and turn off the engine. Nat walks up first and you follow her. She opens her door and beckons you to follow her into the house. She leads you to the kitchen, which opens to the living room. The house seems too big for just one person but it has the right amount of decoration. The open distribution and its minimalist style match Natasha's personality, elegant and luxurious.  

“Do you fancy a glass of wine or a drink?”

“I’ll have a drink if you don’t mind”

“Sure, gin and tonic, right?” I nod at her remembering.

You take a seat on the blue velvet sofa and you glance around to better look at the decor. A few pictures of her and a blonde, who you assume is her sister, are hung on the walls, alongside a round mirror fit to perfection with the light touches of gold in the statues on the shelves. Your bodies are slightly turned to face each other, your sides against the couch. You place your glass on the table and put your arm on the back of the sofa letting your chin rest on your hand. She gently scoots closer and maintains eye contact while taking a drink sip. Thank God you were not standing, or you would’ve collapsed right there and then. You finish your drinks and realize that her hand is on your thigh, drawing random patterns. 

She leans in but stops before you can meet her halfway. “Can I kiss you?” She utters her words in a whisper. You lean again, your lips colliding. The sweetness that you’ve been yearning to taste again since that night makes you melt against her. You follow her lead. Her lips part enough for and her tongue to find yours with eagerness. A low moan escapes your mouth when she grips your hips, putting a bit of pressure. You take that cue and lean back completely, pulling her on top of you. You find yourselves lost in each other’s until you have to pull apart to breathe. 

“I usually don't do this on the first date, but I really want you to stay the night.”

“I want that too.” You say a bit dazzled by the make-out.

She leans again for another kiss, placing her hands under your shirt. There’s some sort of urgency to her touch, a touch so gentle that warms every inch of the path it takes. Then, she tugs on the hem, you lift up your arms and she takes the shirt off, throwing it to a corner of the room. 

“Do you want to keep going?” She stops and asks before things get more heated than they already are. 

You nod. “I need words, babe.” She whispers close to your ear. Her voice sounded raspier and deeper than usual. You let out a shaky breath before answering. 

“Yes, I want to.” 

“Let's move this to my room.”

[kaialone]

Kirby Planet Robobot Translation Comparison: Pause Screens (Part 2)

This will be a comparison of the original Japanese version and the US English localized version.

Specifically, this will cover the pause screen descriptions of all bosses faced exclusively in the extra modes of the game.

While I’m mainly comparing the US English version to the Japanese one, I’ll bring up differences in the EU English version that I find notable, too.

For the comparisons, the usual points apply:

Bolded is the original Japanese text, for the reference.

Bolded and italicized is my translation.

Italicized is the official NOA translation.

A (number) indicates that I have a specific comment to make on that part in the translation notes.

As you read this, please keep in mind that with translations like these, it’s important not to focus on the exact literal wordings, since there is no single “correct answer” when it comes to translations.

Rather than that, consider the actual information that is being conveyed, in which way, and why.

--

This part will work the same as the last one.

And since a lot of these pause descriptions are somewhat connected to their counterparts of the main story as well, I would recommend reading the previous part first, if you haven’t already.

Also, as a general note, you’ll see that all the stronger versions of the regular bosses have the prefix “Re:” added in the Japanese version.

This was changed to “2.0″ in the English version.

From what I’ve seen, “Re:” in Japanese pop culture is often used as a cool, sometimes futuristic way to refer to a “renewal” of something, so adapting it as “2.0″ makes sense.

--

Re:ウィスピーボーグ

ウィスピーボーグが 新モデルに リニューアル。 ねんぴも よくなり はいきガスも へっているので、 カンパニーも かんきょうに はいりょしながら しょうエネ開発を 進めている もよう。 価格も 前モデルの 半分に おさえられている。

Re:Whispy Borg

Whispy Borg has been newly remodeled. The improved fuel efficiency and reduced emission of exhaust gases indicate that perhaps the company too strives to be environmentally friendly, developing new ways to conserve energy. Its price has been cut down to half the previous model, too.

Clanky Woods 2.0

Clanky Woods has been redesigned and upgraded. Better fuel efficiency and fewer emissions demonstrate the company's new environmentally friendly initiative. It costs only half of the previous model!

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

The description has been slightly shortened as usual, though there are some potential errors or changes, too.

-

In the English version, the text mentions “the company’s new environmentally friendly initiative”, whereas the Japanese version doesn’t make it sound like this would be a new thing for them.

It’s possible that this was a mistranslation, but it could also be that they intentionally changed it in English to be a little more obvious about the irony - because the Haltmann Works Company allegedly trying to be environmentally friendly is ridiculous.

-

Also, in the Japanese version, the original wording makes it more clear that Clanky Woods’ price being reduced is seemingly referring to the cost a potential buyer would have to pay for it, rather than the cost of producing it.

This feels like it might be alluding to how in real life, manufacturers of electric cars or the like will try to cut down their prices to some degree in order to get more people into them, and thus creating more of a demand for them in the future.

The English version could be going for that as well, but it’s a bit less clear.

--

Re:ホログラフ防衛システムズ

マザーコンピューターにより リニューアル された この 防衛システムも、他の星に ねむっていた せっけい図を もとにして 作られた ものだが、一部 データが かけている ため、 本来の せい能を はっきできずに いるらしい。

Re:Holographic Defense Systems

Revised by the Mother Computer, this defense system was also created based on blueprints discovered on another planet. But, because part of the data is missing, it is apparently unable to demonstrate its original performance. (1)

Holo Defense API 2.0

Redesigned by the Mother Computer, this defense system is based on a blueprint found on another planet. It's missing a segment of data and is unable to demonstrate its full potential.

Translation Note:

What I translated as “original performance” here could also be translated as “true performance” or the like. I don’t think the specifics make much of a difference here, but thought I would note it, just in case.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description is mostly the same, but there is an interesting detail about it.

-

The Japanese version notes that this defense system was “also” based on blueprints found on another planet.

This directly implies other things have been based on such blueprints, but it doesn’t specify which those are, nor how many blueprints and planets are involved.

From its looks though, we can gather that the Holo Defense API was likely based on Pix from Rock Star, as seen in Kirby 64.

Similarly, we can assume that the Security Force mid-boss was likely based on Metal General from Halcandra, as seen in Return to Dream Land.

And of course, Star Dream is heavily implied to be something similar to Galactic Nova from Milky Way Wishes - and both of them are implied to be so-called clockwork stars, also first mentioned in Return to Dream Land.

But even considering all that, keep in mind that we still can’t say for sure where and when the Haltmann Works Company would have precured any of their respective blueprints, and series director Shinya Kumazaki intentionally left the answer up in the air when asked about it during the second Planet Robobot Ask-a-thon on Miiverse.

Just so we are all on the same page here.

In any case, the English version is still missing the indication that the Holo Defense API isn’t the only one that was based on blueprints found elsewhere.

The EU English version actually goes one step further, rephrasing the line in question to say that the defence system was built “based on the blueprint found on another planet”.

The wording of “the blueprint” would imply there was only ever one, which does not appear to be the case in Japanese.

--

Re:ホロ・クラッコ

この 雲のモンスターのデータは、 ぶんせき すればするほど、様ざまな こうげきパターンが 見つかる。 その いったんが システムのリニューアルに より かいほうされ、手強くなっている。

Re:Holo-Kracko

The more data of this cloud monster is analyzed, the more attack patterns are discovered. A portion of them have been unlocked by the system's revision, making it a more formidable adversary.

Holo-Kracko 2.0

They further analyzed the data of the cloud monster and discovered even more vicious attacks. The system redesign has implemented these attacks and made Holo-Kracko even more powerful.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description features some slight alterations.

-

The Japanese version mentions that a larger variety of attack patterns is being discovered, while the English version says that “more vicious attacks” have been found.

Aside from those being different things to discover, the Japanese version also makes it clear that this analysis is still being done continuously.

The Japanese version also states that the system’s revision has “unlocked” these additional patterns, but the English version states that it has “implemented” the additional attacks.

So, the implications of how the system works are slightly different here.

-

The US English version also has this description start with “They further analyzed the data of the cloud monster and discovered (...)“, while the EU English version phrases it as “Further analysis of data from the cloud monster has uncovered (...)“.

The latter matches the Japanese version a bit more, with the narrator having a more neutral position regarding the progress.

But, the former isn’t really wrong by comparison either, and the narrator does refer to the company in third person like that occasionally in other places.

--

Re:ホロ・ローパーズ

このモンスターは、スージーが かつて入手した データを入力し 生み出されたのだが、異空間と よばれるエリアに すくう このモンスターの データを 一体いつ、どこで 手に入れたので　あろうか。 かのじょのナゾも また、深まる ばかりである。

Re:Holo Lopers

These monsters were created by entering data that Susie had acquired in the past. But, just when and where exactly did she obtain data on those monsters which live in the area called another dimension? There is no end to the mysteries surrounding her, either.

Holo-Doomers 2.0

These monsters were created by Susie entering data she acquired from her travels. Where and when did she encounter the original monsters from another dimension? Who knows?

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description is mostly the same, with some slight oddities.

-

Of course, the term “another dimension” used in the Japanese version here is the same as before, so my notes on the regular Holo-Doomers also apply here.

And just like before, the EU English version changed “another dimension” to “extra dimension”, which I also went over back there.

-

Also, the Japanese version specifically uses the word “area” to refer to another dimension, which is also the term used for “areas” in Planet Robobot as a game.

I think this could just be to add some flavor to this description, though.

The game seems to use “area” in favor of “level” to give it a more mechanical and business-driven vibe. And so the narration is consistent with that internal logic of the game’s aesthetic.

-

The final line in the Japanese version says that there is no end to the mysteries about Susie “either”, which I think is simply a follow-up to the final line of the regular Holo-Doomers description.

The English version doesn’t have a connection between the two descriptions like that there.

--

Re:ホロ・アイスドラゴン

かつて 存在した、古代のドラゴンという 生命体の データから 生み出された ホログラフだが、もしかしたら 今でもまだ どこかの 島の どうくつの おく深くで、 ひそかに 生きのびて いるのかも しれない。

Re:Holo-Ice Dragon

This hologram was created from the data of an ancient organic life form called a dragon, which has existed in the past, but it is also possible that they secretly continue to live on, deep inside a cave on an island somewhere.

Holo-Ice Dragon 2.0

This hologram was created from an ancient dragon. Dragons are no longer seen, but one of them may still be living quietly in a cave on an island somewhere. Who knows?

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description is mostly the same, except for a small detail that might be a bit confusing, but I’ll try to explain it.

-

There is some potential issue here regarding the usage of plural versus singular.

In my translation of the Japanese version, I have the description refer to dragons in a general sense, rather than one individual dragon.

The English version chose to use singular instead, for the most part.

As I mentioned before, there usually is no clear distinction between plural and singular in Japanese, so either way could work here.

That being said, the English version would still be slightly off, because if one chooses to use singular for the translation here, it has to be applied to all of the text.

If I were to apply singular for my own translation, it would become this:

This hologram was created from the data of an ancient organic life form called a dragon, which has existed in the past, but it is also possible that it secretly continues to live on, deep inside a cave on an island somewhere.

Therefore, the English version’s line “Dragons are no longer seen, but one of them (...)” would be inaccurate for that approach.

It should at least be something like “This dragon is no longer seen, but it (...)” instead.

At the end of the day, I don’t think the specifics actually matter much in this case right here, but I still wanted to explain them.

--

Re:ホロ・ガラーガ

このモンスターが いたという 天空の国が 存在 するらしいが、いまだ キカイ化の しんりゃくが とうたつ できていない もよう。 この星には まだ、様ざまな みかいの エリアが 残されていることが うかがえる。

Re:Holo-Garāga

It appears that the land of the sky where this monster is said to be from really exists, but the mechanization invasion seemingly has yet to reach it. It's clear that there are still many uncivilized areas left on this planet.

Holo-C. Rattler 2.0

It is said that the People of the Sky who enshrined this monster still exist. It seems that the mechanization invasion has not reached them, due to their remote location.

Comparisons & Thoughts:

There are some slight alterations in this description.

-

Like before, “land of the sky” is changed to “People of the Sky”, so my notes on that also apply here.

-

The Japanese version has the narrator note that the supposed land of the sky apparently does exist, but the English version has the narrator say that the People of the Sky “still” exist.

The latter would imply that from the perspective of our vague narrator, the People of the Sky were known, but also previously thought to possibly not exist anymore.

In contrast, the former implies the land of the sky is only just being discovered.

-

Next, the Japanese version notes that there are still many “uncivilized areas” on Pop Star, following the prior statement that the land of the sky has yet to be reached by the invasion.

The English version changes this to stating that the People of the Sky have yet to be reached by the invasion “due to their remote location”.

This might have been an intentional change to sound less demeaning, but I can’t say for sure.

Really, this mostly changes the narrator’s attitude about the situation, since the Japanese phrasing still would imply that the company just needs more time to reach Floralia and other locations further away from their operations.

Also just for the reference, the word “areas” is once again the same one they use for the game’s main levels as well, keeping with the game’s aesthetic.

-

As an aside, the general narrator of these descriptions is not really a character, so slight differences in their limited knowledge and attitude about the world like in the two previous points are not that big of a deal.

But it’s interesting to me that in this description right here for example, the Japanese version of the narrator seems to roughly reflect the knowledge and attitude that the Haltmann Works Company would have.

In other places, the narrator’s knowledge and general perspective does shift to other sides too, I’m guessing to fit the mood that works best for each description.

-

Also, I mentioned in the last part how it’s strange that the English version didn’t just go for the shorter “Holo-Rattler” as the name, and this choice comes back to haunt them here, cause they had to spell “Holo-Coily Rattler 2.0″ as “Holo-C. Rattler 2.0″ to make it fit.

--

Re:秘書スージー

おさないころ、マザーコンピューターの 起動 じっけん時に じこに まきこまれ、ゆくえふめい となった という。時がたち、何を思い、ふたたび カンパニーに もぐりこんだので あろうか。 フルネームは「スザンナ ファミリア ハルトマン」。

Re:Secretary Susie

As a young child, she was supposedly involved in an accident during an experimental start-up of the Mother Computer, and went missing. (1) Whatever she may be thinking, some time later she must have snuck her way into the company once more. Her full name is "Susanna Familia Haltmann".

Susie 2.0

As a child, Sue [sic] was involved in an accident during a Mother Computer experiment and went missing. Why has she joined the company after all this time? Her full name is Susanna Patrya Haltmann.

Translation Note:

What I translated as “experimental start-up” could also be translated as “start-up experiment”, or the like.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

In the Japanese version, Susie’s middle name is “Familia”, which was changed to “Patrya” in the English version.

The Japanese one is probably based on the English word “family” or maybe even “familiar”, alluding to the story going on with her, and keeping with that Western influence they go for with her and the company.

I’m guessing the English version changed it because “Familia” might’ve seemed too on the nose about it?

Going by that, I think “Patrya” might be based on something like “patriarch” and related terms, which would also allude to the story surrounding Susie’s character.

The actual description is mostly the same, just rephrased to be shorter.

-

In the Japanese version it’s stated that the experiment during which Susie went missing was one about starting the Mother Computer, which ends up omitted in English.

Not hugely important, but interesting if you care about finer specifics of the story.

-

The Japanese version also mentions that Susie later “snuck her way” into the company, implying some obfuscation of details on her part when she joined.

That detail can already be inferred from the story alone, so not as much of a loss.

-

The US English version refers to Susie as “Sue” in this description for some reason.

I’m almost positive this was just a typo, since it seems very unlikely they would randomly introduce a second nickname for her only in this one screen.

The EU English version rephrased the first line slightly and fixed that spelling in the process, too.

--

強化量産メタナイトボーグ

メタナイトボーグのデータを もとにして 作られた、セキュリティマシンの量産型。 最新ぎじゅつにより かなり強化 されている。 もしも 実用化された場合、カンパニーの 戦力は ひやくてきに こう上するであろう。

Enhanced Mass-produced Meta Knight Borg

A mass-produced security machine model, built using data from the Meta Knight Borg as a basis. Its strength was enhanced considerably with the latest technology. If it were to be put into practical use, the company's military power would increase dramatically.

Stock Mecha Knight

This mass-production model is based on an upgraded Mecha Knight model. If this model goes into commercial production, the company's military power will dramatically increase.

Comparisons & Thoughts:

The ”Enhanced Mass-produced Meta Knight Borg“ had its name changed to “Stock Mecha Knight“, because yeah, there was probably no way to make a more literal translation fit here.

I think going for “Stock” here is pretty clever, boiling down the idea to its bare essentials, and with such little space, too.

The actual description is mostly the same, just rephrased to be slightly shorter.

-

The English version’s phrasing does make it sound like Stock Mecha Knight was based on Mecha Knight+ in particular, whereas the Japanese version has it be based on the data of the regular Mecha Knight.

--

Re:クローンデデデ

声も すがたも まるでデデデ大王 と同じだが、 その心まで クローン化する ことは だんねんした。 いくつかの しさくでは、食べ物ばかり もとめたり、 とある こん虫を やたらと おそれたりと、 兵士として、不完全で あったため である。

Re:Clone Dedede

Its voice and appearance are just like King Dedede, but they have given up on cloning his heart, too. This is because there were several prototypes only interested in food, or exceedingly afraid of a certain insect, as well as other aspects that made them imperfect soldiers.

Dedede Clone 2.0

It has the look and voice of King Dedede, but not his soul. Some things can't be cloned. Some of the trial models were only interested in food, some were fearful of a certain insect, and all were imperfect.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

There is a pretty significant alteration or possible error in this description.

-

In the Japanese version, it’s stated that the company has given up on cloning Dedede’s “heart” because several prototypes ended up being imperfect soldiers.

What this means is that cloning his “heart” is actually possible for them to some extent, but since that causes the clones to take on parts of Dedede’s personality, it made them worse as soldiers.

So, they have given up on cloning the heart specifically because the clones having one has proven to be a detriment for their purposes.

In the English version, it’s instead stated that the company is unable to clone Dedede’s “soul”, because “some things can’t be cloned”.

In turn, the issues with the trial models are also implied to be unrelated general cloning issues.

So, while the Japanese version somewhat eerily states that cloning a heart is possible, but the company is now making the clones heartless on purpose, the English version seems like almost the complete opposite and states that cloning a soul is just not possible.

This could have been a translation error, but it could also be that the English localizers wanted to avoid crossing a certain line here and thus changed it intentionally.

-

Continuing from the previous point though, you may have noticed that the Japanese version uses “heart” while the English version uses “soul”.

The actual Japanese word used here is 心/kokoro, which is most commonly translated as “heart”, but it can also be translated as “soul” like the English version did - and also as “mind”, or even “feelings”, as well as other things like that depending on the context.

Because of that, it can have different connotations than just the English word “soul” on its own.

I think “heart” is a broad enough term that it works well here, and the Kirby series has a frequent heart motif as well, so I went with that, personally.

The term will also be brought up again in future descriptions down the line, so keep it in mind for later.

--

Re:クローンデデデ&D3砲

この立体砲台は とてつもなく高がくで、 ウィスピーウッズや メタナイトの サイボーグ化の なんと4倍。あの ギガヴォルトより 50億ハルトマニー も 高い。それでも、ハルトマンの乗る、純金の 「プレジデンバー」の 4分の1ほど ではある。

Re:Clone Dedede & D3 Cannon

This three-dimensional artillery is extremely expensive, costing no less than four times more than the cybernetic conversions of Whispy Woods and Meta Knight. It even surpasses the Gigavolt by 5 billion Haltmoney. However, that is still only about a quarter of what the "Presidenver" that Haltmann rides is worth, which is made of pure gold.

Dedede Cl. & D3 2.0

This tridimensional cannon is extremely expensive, costing a whopping four times more than Mecha Knight. However, it's still much cheaper than Haltmann's Executive Suit, which is made of pure gold.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description is mostly accurate, just rewritten to be shorter.

-

The English version simplifies the different cost comparisons in this description a lot, which is mostly expendable information, so that’s understandable.

Still, since the Japanese version has the room for it, it’s fun to see it continue with the trend of comedically focusing how much everything costs compared to one another, going with the themes of the game.

-

Also, Haltmann’s own mech is revealed to be called “Presidenver” in Japanese, which was changed to “Executive Suit” in English.

Either one goes along with the name of Susie’s mech, but since its name was omitted in the English version, this fact doesn’t come across there.

“Presidenver” is pretty self-explanatory, just adding “president” to “Rereinver”.

“Executive Suit” might be a play on “executive suite”, which is pretty amusing to me.

--

Re:プレジデント・ハルトマン

フルネームは「ゲインズ インカム ハルトマン」。 かつて ひとり娘を じこで なくし、それいらい 人の心も きおくさえも すて、カンパニーの成長の ためだけに 生きる男。だがそれも、娘に ふたたび会いたい ただその ねがいを かなえるため であったのだが…。

Re:President Haltmann

His full name is "Gains Income Haltmann". He once lost his only daughter in an accident, and ever since then, the man has been casting aside his heart and even his memories, living only for the sake of his company's growth. But even that too was only for the sake of granting his wish - to see his daughter once more...

Pres. Haltmann 2.0

His full name is Max Profitt Haltmann. Ever since losing his only child, he's dedicated his life to his company. However, his only wish is to see his daughter once again.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

In Japanese, Haltmann’s given and middle names are “Gains Income”, which was changed to “Max Profitt” in the English version.

“Gains Income” is obviously taken directly from “gains income”. Aside from probably referring to the fact that he’s about earning money, this also is another English-sounding name to go with the company’s aesthetic.

“Max Profitt” is a similar play on earning money, but done in a way that works better as a pun-based name for English-speaking audiences.

The actual description has one fairly notable omission in particular.

-

In the Japanese version, it’s specifically stated that Haltmann has been “casting aside his heart and even his memories“, which is not mentioned in English.

The fact that Haltmann doesn’t have all his memories anymore is crucial to understanding the story at this point, so leaving this out caused a lot of confusion for English-speaking fans around the time of the game’s release.

It would eventually be brought up again during the second Planet Robobot Ask-a-thon, so fans did get to learn about this, but it was still an inconvenience.

Not to mention that Miiverse has since been shut down.

The detail about Haltmann’s “heart” is interesting as well, since it gives additional insight into how Haltmann has presumably grown more callous over the years as well, rather than starting out the way we see him in the present day.

For the reference, the English Miiverse post adapted this as “compassion”, which works perfectly fine in this context, too.

-

The US English version doesn’t mention that Haltmann specifically lost his only child in an accident, but the EU English version actually included that part, too.

So I’m not really sure why the US English version omitted the “accident” detail.

--

クローン剣士ダークマター

星の夢に 入力されている データの中でも かなりの 強さをほこる 黒き剣の使い手。 クローン化に せいこうした ものの、かいせきは データの 一部に すぎず、その正体について いまだ、全ようかいめい には いたっていない。

Clone Swordfighter Dark Matter

Among the data that has been entered into Star Dream, this dark sword user boasts especially tremendous strength. Although it was cloned successfully, only part of its data has been analyzed, and its true nature has yet to be confirmed with certainty as of right now. (1)

Dark Matter Clone

Creating this dark swordsman pushed Star Dream to the limits of its abilities. The cloning process was a success, but only a partial data analysis was possible, and its true form has not yet emerged.

Translation Note:

The word I translated as “true nature” could also be translated as “true identity”, or other things along those lines. Either could potentially work in this context.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

“Clone Swordfighter Dark Matter” is shortened to “Dark Matter Clone”, most likely for space.

The US English version of the True Arena labels this boss as “Dark Matter Blade”, so I wonder if they originally intended to reflect the “swordfighter” part in the name as well, but partially dropped it.

The actual description has a few potential errors or changes.

-

In the Japanese version, it’s stated that Dark Matter Blade is one of the strongest included within Star Dream’s data.

The English version instead states that cloning him pushed Star Dream “to the limits of its abilities”.

This could have been a translation error, but it could also have been an intentional rewrite.

-

As mentioned in the translation note, I can’t say for sure if the Japanese version is supposed to refer to Dark Matter Blade’s “true nature” or “true identity” not having been confirmed yet.

The relevant line could either be referring to Dark Matter Blade’s true form, which the clone does take on during the battle, but it could also be referring to the other general mysteries about Dark Matter and its background.

Either way could work in this context, so I went with “true nature” in my translation, because you can read either interpretation into it.

The English version specifically goes for “true form” here, but also changes “has yet to be confirmed” to “has not yet emerged”.

So the implications are slightly different there.

--

クローンセクトニア

この星の しんりゃく時に 見つけた 巨大な 植物の花から データを さいしゅ。不思議なことに、 こん虫の 女王の剣士の クローンが 生まれた。 データには 1000年にも およぶ 様ざまな 生物のデータが ふくまれており、ナゾがたえない。

Clone Sectonia

Data was collected from the flower of a giant plant that was discovered during the invasion of this planet. Curiously, it produced the clone of an insect queen swordswoman. The data includes that of various organisms, spanning a period of over 1000 years. The mysteries continue.

Sectonia Clone

Data was collected from traces of a giant flower the invaders stumbled upon. Cloning it produced the insect queen. Its data contains elements of creatures spanning a period of 1,000 years.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This description is mostly the same, just rephrased to be a bit shorter.

The switch from “Clone Sectonia” to “Sectonia Clone” is probably just to sound a bit more natural in English.

--

ギャラクティックナイト リターンズ

その力ゆえ おそれられてきた、全てを ほろぼし かねない 古の剣士。クローンではなく、未知なる 異空間ロードから 時空をこえ よびさまされた。 様ざまな時代で ふういん されてきた きろくが 残るが、しょうめつ させることは できていない。

Galactic Knight Returns

An ancient swordfighter, capable of destroying everything, who has come to be feared due to his power. He is not a clone - he has been awoken across time and space, from the unknown Another Dimension Road. There are records left behind of him having been sealed away in various eras, but he has yet to be destroyed completely.

Galacta Knight Returns

This ancient swordsman is feared for his immense power. He is not a clone. He was awakened and brought here via an extra-dimensional road beyond the space-time continuum.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

“Galactic Knight Returns” is renamed to “Galacta Knight Returns” in English.

This matches how this character has always been called in the English versions of Kirby games, of course.

The actual description is mostly accurate, just shorter, but the final sentence has been omitted entirely.

-

In the Japanese version, the final sentence provides some neat insight into Galacta Knight’s background, particularly the impact he has apparently had on people across history.

It’s a shame this is missing in the English version, but they most certainly couldn’t make it fit.

-

The “Another Dimension Road” is mentioned here again, which I already went over when I covered Meta Knightmare Returns, so all my notes there also apply here.

The English version again adapts it as “extra-dimensional road“, staying consistent with what they used in the cutscene.

--

星の夢.Soul OS (First Phase)

未知ノ ダメージに ヨリ、最終プログラムが アンロック。 アノ生命体ヲ ハイジョ デキる カクリツは、99.99% トナル。タダ ハルトマンと イウ 生命体の「ココロ」と いうモノが 不要なソンザイ とナル モヨウ。 コレヨリ、ハルトマンのメモリーの 消去ヲ カイシスル。

Star Dream.Soul OS (First Phase)

Unknown DAMAGE HAS CAUSED the final program TO be UNLOCKED. PROBABILITY OF ELIMINATING THAT organic life form is NOW AT 99.99%. ONLY THE OBJECT called the "HEART" of the organic life form CALLED HALTMANN WILL LIKELY PROVE TO BE innecessary. NOW INITIATING erasure of THE MEMORY OF HALTMANN. (1)

Star Dream Soul OS (First Phase)

The final program has been activated. Its calculated victory probability is 99.9%. However, a small part of Haltmann's soul is yet to be purged, which could throw a wrench in its plans.

Translation Note:

The literal term used in Japanese here is メモリー /memorī, which is a transliteration of the English word “memory”. This is normally used to refer to computer memory, rather than a person’s memories. Though the double-meaning might be intentional in this context.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

There are some notable details in this description.

-

First of all, the Japanese version is once again written from the perspective of Star Dream, as seen by its unmistakable speaking style.

However, unlike in the main story, Star Dream does not refer to itself in first-person here at any point.

Since the Soul OS battle seems to roughly follow after the events of Meta Knightmare Returns, this might reflect how Star Dream presumably never gained its own sense of self in that scenario, but that’s just a guess on my part.

Either way, in the English version this description does not seem to be written directly from Star Dream’s perspective.

If this is the case, it might have been an oversight, but I can’t say for sure.

I do think this is a shame, because it’s a nice callback to its final pause screen from the main story, and also may become more impactful once you see the remaining pause screens from this current boss battle.

-

A smaller detail, but the Japanese version specifies that the final program was unlocked by “Unknown DAMAGE”, which may refer to the cut done by Galacta Knight - as it can still be seen on Star Dream here.

This gives this boss battle a stronger connection to the events of Meta Knightmare Returns, even if the continuity of these extra mode stories is rather vague, of course.

-

This next detail will take a bit longer to go over, so bear with me.

In the English version, it’s stated that Star Dream has yet to purge “a small part” of Haltmann’s “soul”, and that this could be detrimental for it.

But in the Japanese version, Star Dream instead comes to the conclusion that Haltmann’s “HEART” will be innecessary. It also proceeds with the erasure of the “MEMORY” of Haltmann, which the English version does not yet bring up.

This results in some different potential implications here.

In the English version, the usage of “soul” would suggest that this must be Haltmann’s actual soul or spirit, but it’s not quite the same in Japanese.

While these extra stories only have vague continuity, keep in mind that as far as we know, Haltmann was never actually taken over directly by Star Dream in this scenario.

If this was meant to refer to Haltmann’s spirit, they could’ve easily used the same word for spirit they used during the final battle of the main story.

But instead, they use the same term “heart” that has already come up before in the descriptions for Dedede Clone 2.0 and Haltmann 2.0, which this current description also seems to follow up on.

Just like in the Dedede Clone 2.0 description, a heart is deemed as a flaw by Star Dream here. And we know from the Haltmann 2.0 description that Haltmann has been casting aside his own heart too, in a way.

This goes into speculation territory, but one could assume based on this that the “heart” of Haltmann which Star Dream currently possesses is the same heart that Haltmann has cast aside, either literally or figuratively.

Again, remember how the Dedede Clone 2.0 description confirmed that a heart is something that can artificially be reproduced in some form, so it wouldn’t have to literally be the same.

In any case, Star Dream’s method to rid itself of this “heart” is to start erasing the “MEMORY” of Haltmann.

This could mean that at the very least, the memories that Haltmann has lost over the years are stored or documented within Star Dream in some form.

Though not from the pause screen, further evidence of this is the fact that the objects summoned by Star Dream during its respective third phase are officially called “MEMORIES”.

And while they are all parts of Galactic Nova, they also all relate to specific details about Haltmann that were revealed in a Nintendo Dream interview (June 2016 issue.)

The Soul OS version of the attack also adds piano keys, a possible reference to Susie’s own profile mentioning that she plays the piano.

-

That last point was rather long, so to summarize it briefly:

While the English version suggests that Star Dream here contains Haltmann’s soul or spirit, much like in the main story, the situation appears to be a bit different in Japanese, given how the term “heart” can be used - and how it has been used in the game so far.

--

星の夢.Soul OS (Second-Final Phase)

だれが 何のために 作ったのかさえ 分からない。 そんなモノを なぜ わたしは 起動 させてしまったの だろうか。そうだ、かなえたい夢が あったはずだ… あぁ だが、マシンが 夢など かなえては くれない というのは、もう 分かっていたこと だというのに…

Star Dream.Soul OS (Second-Final Phase)

I don't even know who made it or for what purpose. Why would I activate something like that? That's right, I think I had a dream I wanted to be fulfilled... Ahh, but I already knew that a machine could never make dreams come true, and yet I...

Star Dream Soul OS (Second-Final Phase)

"Why did I reactivate such a terrible machine? Oh, I remember -- I wanted to see her just one last time. How foolish! I should have known that no machine could make such a dream come true."

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

Just like the previous one, there are several notable details about this description.

-

Now, in both versions, this pause screen appears to be from Haltmann’s perspective, though the English version actually added quotation marks to it.

This could have been to make it more clear that this is from a specific person’s perspective, but the same was never done with Star Dream’s narration.

There could be another reason for this, which I’ll go over next.

-

Here’s a subtle detail you might not have caught.

While this is most likely Haltmann narrating here, the Japanese version has him refer to himself with the first person pronoun わたし/watashi.

In the actual story, he only ever used ワシ/washi to refer to himself.

But here’s the thing: in fiction, having a character refer to themselves as ワシ/washi is generally used to indicate that the character is old, and just by comparison, わたし/watashi sounds younger.

This could imply that this quote might in fact be from a time where Haltmann was at least somewhat younger than he is now.

In other words, a memory from the past, rather than a current thought in the present.

Being shown a memory of Haltmann at this point would also fit with Star Dream’s narration from the previous pause screen.

Because of that, I think the English version could be using the quotation marks to indicate this temporal distance, since they can’t really show it in the same way the Japanese version does.

But I can’t say for sure if that was the intent.

-

The Japanese version has Haltmann mention that he did not know who made the machine he’s talking about here, which is most likely Star Dream.

Interesting backstory tidbit there, if you’re curious about these.

-

Also in the Japanese version, Haltmann believes that a machine can’t actually make dreams come true in general. Though, we can’t know if he is correct about that.

In the English version, Haltmann only comes to the conclusion that no machine could make his specific dream come true.

-

On that note, Haltmann is never shown to recall what his dream was in the first place in Japanese, he only says that he must have had one.

In the English version, he explicitly remembers wanting to see “her” again being his dream.

It seems like almost a given that Haltmann’s dream here is referring to his wish of being reunited with his daughter, so it makes sense that the English version would change the text to make it obvious.

There is a non-zero chance that Haltmann actually had another dream, but that’s a whole different topic.

--

星の夢.Soul OS (Final Phase)

このコアからも ハルトマンのメモリーは、消えた。 最後に想う あの心も、消えた。その瞬間より 星の夢は 完全な 存在から ただの こわれたマシン となる。 夢も見ない、ゴハンも食べない、そんな あいては もはや、星のカービィの てきでは なかった!

Star Dream.Soul OS (Final Phase)

Haltmann's memory has disappeared from this core, too. And in the end, that feeling heart disappeared as well. That very moment, Star Dream turns from a perfect being into a mere broken machine. It doesn't have dreams, it doesn't even eat lunch - an opponent like that no longer stands any chance against Kirby of the Stars!

Star Dream Soul OS (Final Phase)

All of Haltmann's memories have been deleted from the OS. Even his soul-- the last trace of Haltmann--has vanished. Star Dream has gone from a near- perfect being to a cold, mindless machine.

-

Comparisons & Thoughts:

This is the final description, so of course there is a lot to say again.

-

A minor detail, but in the Japanese version it’s said that the memory of Haltmann has now disappeared from “this core”, which is pretty straightforward, all things considered.

For some reason, the US English version instead says that Haltmann’s memories have been deleted “from the OS”, and the EU English version says they have been deleted “from the Mother Computer”.

This is also the first time the memories are brought up in English at all, so their relevance is a lot less clear.

And another minor detail related to this one.

I believe the specific phrasing of “disappeared from this core, too” in Japanese is meant to refer to the fact that Haltmann’s memories had already been lost by the man himself.

At least, that makes the most sense to me.

-

Once again, the English version uses “soul” where the Japanese version used “heart”.

The distinction between the two becomes especially important here, because while the English version says it’s the “soul” of Haltmann, the Japanese text is more vague about it.

Of course, the first Japanese pause screen of this battle did refer to it as the “heart” of Haltmann, but at the same time, remember that this would have basically been Star Dream’s own heart as well.

This also seems to be the implication going by the lines that follow afterwards.

-

Interestingly, the Japanese version describes Star Dream as having been a “perfect being”, whereas the English version just goes for “near-perfect being”.

This is very similar to how they changed Kirby’s energy from being described as “infinite” to “nearly infinite” in the main story.

I suppose they just don’t want to deal in absolutes with these.

The English version also goes on to describe Star Dream as now being a “cold, mindless machine”, instead of just a “broken machine” like in Japanese, which has different implications.

Star Dream being actually broken and not functioning as it should is another point that Kumazaki reiterated during the second Planet Robobot Ask-a-thon, so that’s another plot detail the English version technically omits here.

The English phrasing also leans more into the idea of Star Dream being a scary opponent, while the Japanese phrasing leans more into the idea of Star Dream being something pitiful - a similar sentiment to the descriptions of the main story’s final battle.

-

Adding to the point above, the English version also omits the final part of this last description.

The phrase “It doesn’t have dreams, it doesn’t even eat lunch“ references a recurring concept first introduced in the manual of Kirby’s Adventure - the fact that the people of Dream Land, and Kirby especially, love to take naps after lunch to have fun dreams.

This was referenced in the Japanese version of Kirby Super Star as well, where the pause screen description during the Starship segment of Milky Way Wishes features the line:

マルクのやぼうを さっさとくいとめ、 ゴハンたべて ねよう。

Let's stop Marx real quick, then have lunch and a nap.

That’s another Milky Way Wishes connection only in the Japanese version, but said line also wasn’t featured in the English version of Kirby Super Star in the first place.

And since the “Kirby of the Stars” title is also not really used in the English localizations of the Kirby series, it would have been hard to make this final bit of the pause description work, even if space weren’t an issue.

I think the Japanese version is stronger for having it, but there probably wasn’t much the English version could have done about this.

-

With all of the point-by-point comparisons out of the way here, I want to take a moment to go into some general thoughts on this battle as a whole and what each version implies about it.

Naturally this will have a bit more speculation on my part too, so keep that in mind.

If you only look at the English version, the implication you get is that during the Star Dream Soul OS battle, Star Dream is fused with Haltmann’s actual soul, in a similar manner to the events of the main story. (Even though those events may not have happened in the extra scenarios.)

It must be Haltmann’s own soul, because the English Dedede Clone 2.0 description states that a soul cannot be cloned.

Star Dream then proceeds to delete Haltmann’s last memories as well as his soul, because Haltmann’s soul had a chance of stopping its plan. (Even though it had no apparent issues about fusing with his spirit in the main story.)

Therefore, during this battle Haltmann is essentially killed “deader than dead” by Star Dream, for the lack of a better wording - his very soul eradicated for good.

The middle pause screen during the battle may be thought of as Haltmann’s final thoughts before ultimate oblivion in this interpretation.

I don’t think this is just what I myself take away from the English version, because this is the most common interpretation I have seen from English-speaking fans over the years.

It can come across as a tragedy in which Haltmann is finally destroyed for good by a terrible machine he could never truly control.

Now, onto the Japanese version.

The exact details leave more room for speculation, because of how vague the term 心/kokoro or “heart” can be.

But the way I understand it is that Star Dream has been storing the memories that Haltmann has been losing over the years.

In addition to that, it would likely have data on Haltmann’s current memories and thoughts as well, as seen in the main story.

From this, it gained the “heart” of Haltmann, or at least a partial reproduction of it, allowing it to feel and think in a way similar to Haltmann. Just like the early Dedede clones with cloned hearts acting similar to King Dedede in various ways.

However, Star Dream never fuses with Haltmann’s spirit in the extra scenarios.

Because of that, it never gains its own sense of self, and fails to understand the purpose of a heart, deeming it a potential flaw to be purged, just as it did with the updated Dedede clones.

Thus, it deletes the memories of Haltmann, which brought about the heart in the first place, and thus loses said heart again, becoming a lifeless object once more - no longer able to think and feel anything.

And there is another subtle detail in the Japanese version related to that, too.

During this battle, the first description is narrated by Star Dream, the second seems to show a memory of Haltmann, and the final one goes back to the general narrator.

This could possibly represent the transition of Star Dream starting out with that heart, sifting through the memories to delete them, and finally having become just a machine again, so it no longer has any thoughts that could serve as the narration.

This potentially paints the Soul OS battle specifically more as a tragedy of Star Dream itself. A machine that achieved the miracle of being alive with a heart, but proceeded to undo said miracle all on its own, without even realizing what it was really doing.

Also, Kumazaki only specified this on Miiverse, but Haltmann losing his memories from overusing Star Dream was also because it was broken.

So this was never something that was supposed to really happen in this way, had it functioned properly.

Overall, Star Dream can feel like more of a tragic figure in the Japanese version, and more of a villainous figure in the English one.

Several small differences between the versions across the game reflect this, with moments painting Start Dream as pitiful or even pathetic being altered or omitted.

However, this is a very general summary of it, the Japanese version still has Star Dream being the main antagonist, and the English version has plenty of moments where the tragic aspects to Star Dream are still apparent.

--

Final Thoughts on the Pause Screens:

First, let me say, I am very impressed by the English localization of these pause screens.

Really, look up these screens for yourself some time, they pushed these to their limits. Almost every single one of them is crammed full with as much text as they could possibly fit in.

Yes, they still had to cut a lot out here and there, but clearly not from lack of trying.

Of course, the fact of the matter still ends up being that the Japanese version simply has more good stuff in it.

A lot of stuff is “expendable”, but losing fun fluff all the time adds up, I feel.

The extra modes pause screens especially also feature a few major errors or alterations, as well as omissions that do end up being detrimental to the story in some form.

The biggest one I feel is the fact that Haltmann’s memory loss is not brought up at all, because that one detail is the puzzle piece that makes everything fall into place and let’s the player finally understand what is going on with the emotional core of the story.

So much of the details regarding Star Dream are up to interpretation, so I’m perfectly willing to let the broader details be, but the Japanese version still does a better job of dropping small details earlier on that become relevant for it at the end.

And it’s not just Star Dream, the Japanese version overall has more of these smaller connections and continuity across the pause screens, and connections to the actual story contents as well. So they feel more like smaller pieces in a carefully crafted whole, where everything is interconnected and enriches the story.

Again, the English version probably couldn’t have done much different here, due to the difficult conditions translators and localizers usually have to work with - lack of context, lack of time, limited space, etc.

I guess what I am getting at is that I do prefer the Japanese version, and would recommend fans to check it out (though if you are reading this, I suppose you already have), but don’t assume this means I have a disdain for English version.

It’s very well done, considering the circumstances.

--

And with that, my coverage of the game’s pause screen descriptions come to a close as well.

Feel free to check out the previous parts of my Kirby: Planet Robobot translation comparisons if you haven’t already, and thank you very much for reading!

--

< Previous Part | Start | 

--

[httpswwwtbhkcom]

Hey-ya, Darling! How are you feeling?

Personally, I feel a little bit strangely-easy and calm, and hope you're just as okay!

I really liked your past fanfic (please don't consider me selfish, I'm just still ecstatic ///)

It's a little embarrassing to ask you a request, but I hope you don't mind 👉👈? I really want to read about little orphan girl Nezuko and alone woman reader that adopts her (•v•)

I honestly like this idea, albeit a little sad hah x)

But, if you feel something bad and unpleasant, then do not write it for your own good!!

Chu, all the best! 🎐

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

A/n: Hello again!! I’m feeling a bit gloomy today, but other than that, I’m fine! I’m really glad that you liked the fanfic you requested the other time, I was so happy for a few days after knowing you liked it! Don’t be embarrassed, it’s alright!

Sorry that you had to wait for a few days for this, I was answering my final exam when I found this. But don’t worry, it’s alright!

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

Title: Adoption Papers

Pairing: Nezuko Kamado x Reader (Adoptive mother and adopted daughter relationship/ family-established)

[@httpswwwtbhkcom’s masterlist]

Warning: Grammar errors, kinda cringe, sad backstory, mentions of death, fire,

I am very foreign about adopting/adoption so I did some research about adopting but I might have multiple corrections here, forgive me if I do.

Genre: Fluff, slight angst,

Keys:

Y/n- your name, L/n- last name,

A/n: I’m kinda sad about how this fanfic went because I had no clue how to do this.

Reader: Female

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

You live alone in an apartment. Everyday is always boring for you. Wake up, eat, go to work, go home, eat, then sleep. It looks like the day is always repeating over and over again.

You grew tired. You tried dating before, but in the end, it just doesn’t work out. So you stopped finding love and continued your life being alone.

You were walking home from work. While you were walking, you felt a droplet drop on your head. ‘Huh?’ You asked yourself, looking up. More and more rain drops started to fall. You immediately knew that it was raining. “Ugh, and I didn’t even bring my umbrella with me... Great.” You mumbled, getting annoyed.

You clutched the strap of your bag and began running to your apartment. It wasn’t that far from your workplace, just a few minutes away.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

When you finally arrived in your apartment block, you quickly ran inside to take a breather for a moment, then walked to the elevator to your apartment. You passed by someone who was walking in the opposite direction as you. You pressed the up button and waited for the elevator to go down.

While waiting, someone went beside you and waited for the elevator. You checked to see who it was.

It was your neighbor.

You decided on making small talk while waiting for the elevator, you didn’t want it to be awkward.

“Ah.. Hey. Nice seeing you again.” You greeted, giving them a small smile. They smiled back. “Mhm. I haven’t been talking to you in a month now, how are you?” Your neighbor asked. You told them how you were feeling right now and asked if they’re alright. Your neighbor nodded.

You and your neighbor talked for a while now. You trusted the said neighbor, being the first person to talk and welcome you to this apartment. Telling you everything about the city you were in and the bad things you should avoid.

You both heard the elevator make a ‘ding!’ sound, alerting you that the elevator is finally here. The doors opened and you two stepped inside. Your neighbor pressed the nth floor then the elevator started moving up.

It was mostly silence except for the background music coming from the elevator.

A few seconds later, the elevator dinged again. You flinched as you were interrupted while you were in a daze. You first walked out, then walked to your apartment, your neighbor following behind.

Your neighbor reached their apartment door first. “Talk to you later L/n!”

You both bid farewell. Then you walked, stopping in front of your door. You took your apartment keys from your bag and unlocked the door. You entered the slightly small and boring apartment then closed the door behind you, then locked it.

You threw your bag across the couch and slumped beside the bag. You grabbed the remote and turned the tv on.

A few minutes had passed as you were forced to watch family advertisements from the tv. Frustrated, you turned it off and groaned. You stared at the ceiling, filled with sadness.

Then, an idea popped onto your mind.

You can adopt a kid!

You were old enough to adopt, you have an okay home, you have more than enough money for a child and yourself, you have no criminal records, and it’ll be a learning experience for you!

“It’s settled!” You exclaimed, standing with hope. Tomorrow, you will try to adopt a child, to make things better, tomorrow was your day off! You looked at the time to see it was already 5:47PM. You went to the fridge to see that you have some leftovers enough for you for now. ‘I should buy groceries tomorrow then..’ You noted.

You put out an all-nighter to research about adopting and such.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

You woke up ecstatic today and surprisingly early. You're finally going to adopt a child! Or children. But you were planning on adopting only one, since this is going to be your first experience of having a child.

You wore appropriate comfy yet casual clothes that would make you look gorgeous and stand out. You wore little make up, showing your natural face more. You took a shoulder bag then left, not forgetting your keys and locking the door.

You went to your attorney to prepare paperworks about adopting.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

Huge time skip:

It took you months to get everything ready. It was not what you thought it would take. You thought it would just take a week or two. But you were wrong.

‘It’s time for me to adopt!’ You exclaimed to yourself, telling yourself that everything that had happened for the past few months was worth it for a kid. You made yourself look a bit presentable yet casual for your soon adopted child. You wanted to make a great first impression if you want him/her to like you. While you were waiting for the past few months, you decided on getting a girl to adopt.

You went to the adoption center and met the caseworker. You both discussed adoption and which child you will choose. You looked at the pictures and saw one child that had caught your eyes. She had black to flame orange hair, and dark pink eyes. By the emotion she had in the picture, she had a small frown and puffy eyes, possibly from crying. And it said that her name was Nezuko Kamado.

The caseworker glanced at what you're staring at and smiled “Ah, Yes. Nezuko Kamado. She is very kind and cheerful. The characteristics you chose are similar to Nezuko.”

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

With Nezuko:

A woman opened the door and peeked her head inside. “Nezuko?” The woman called. Nezuko let out a confused ‘hm?’ sound while making herself visible to the lady. The woman crouched to her level and said sweetly “You’re getting adopted today, Nezuko!”

Nezuko smiled widely. She’s finally getting adopted! She jumped in excitement and joy. “Come on.” The woman said. “Let’s help you pack alright?” Nezuko nodded.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

Nezuko carried a bag filled with her belongings with her. She waved and bid farewell to her fellow friends. Quite sad to be leaving her home but happy to be adopted. She walked with the woman beside her to Nezuko’s new guardian. Nezuko looked up to see a gorgeous lady smiling at her.

You softly smiled at her. “Hello Nezuko, I’m going to be your new mommy.” You introduced yourself. “M-mommy?” You nodded. You took note of her shy behaviour. “H-hello…” Nezuko fiddled with her hands.

You giggled, standing up to the caseworker’s level. “After Nezuko lives with you for a few months, she can be your legal child. You have to do some paperwork too for you to change Nezuko’s last name..” The caseworker explained as they noticed your slightly confused and worried expression.

“Ah, thank you.” You looked down at Nezuko. “Would you like me to carry that bag for you, Nezuko?”

“Yes please.. Thank you.” Nezuko handed you her bag.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

You and Nezuko had finally arrived at your apartment.

“Sorry, it’s kinda small.. But I assure you, it’s cozy sometimes.” You told her. “Oh... Ok! It’s ok!” She beamed. You smiled at her cuteness. You placed her bags you were carrying on a table.

Nezuko jumped on your couch and it slightly bounced. “Comfy..” Nezuko murmured. You sat beside her, giving her a snack that she gratefully took. “Let’s get to know each other, Nezuko. Is that alright?” She happily nodded, giving a shy smile.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

Soon after you got to know her better, you cooked food for the two of you. With Nezuko trying to help you.

After you both made dinner, you both sat across each other then ate the food. “Tasty..” Nezuko murmured, happy as she chewed her food. “I’m glad you like it.” You smiled. You both ate in a comfortable silence, talking every now and then.

You and Nezuko washed the dishes together, then prepared to watch a movie. Nezuko picked a genre and the movie while you prepared popcorn.

While you and a slightly sleepy Nezuko were watching the movie, you thought of everything she had said to you about her.

“I’m really happy you adopted me. I truly am! I’m really happy that I could have another chance of having a new family. The people in the adoption center were nice, But there’s this one girl who is really mean to me.. I don’t know why, but she does something bad to me! But she got adopted a few days before I got adopted.” She said.

“I had many siblings but they were gone. So was my parents…” She sobbed, tears slowly formed in the corner of her eyes. “There was an accident in our home. A fire had started and my brother woke me up, carrying me out the house. Then, my brother carried three of my siblings and left us outside. I don’t know what happened inside the house but..”

“Hey.. Breathe. You’ll be alright. I promise I will take care of you.”

You were snapped out of your thoughts when you saw Nezuko lean onto you as she softly snores. You let out a small yawn and looked at the time. It was already late. You gently and carefully carried Nezuko to your bed and laid her down, placing a blanket on top of her stomach.

You kissed her forehead and murmured a ‘good night’. You went back to the couch and turned off the television. You took a spare blanket from a closet and slept on the couch.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

A few months had passed ever since you adopted Nezuko. After the final paperwork to change her last name to L/n, (Nezuko told you that she wanted to change her last name), She was finally your legal adopted child.

You were not alone anymore. She behaved well and already opened up to you. You both would go to places and do mother-daughter activities together. You both were happy.

You and Nezuko are not alone anymore. You both have each other.

☽✧ ✦ ✧☾

E/n: This wasn’t what I planned to be the ending but I hope you still liked it! This fic was actually 7 pages long lol.

Extra:

Think of this ^ as you and Nezuko playing tag. Ignore the katana.

[writingmyheartsout]

I’ll be good..(..for all of the times that I never could)

Another fluff December story...this one is sweet and a bit sad...and long (for my own standards). Although the length, it’s an easy read like the rest of the series...i just get wordy sometimes..

An au where Dogma doesn’t get to prison and gets reassigned to the Coruscant Guards.

There may be errors but @plexflexico​ said it was good so i trust her <3

warnings: sadness, light mention of war, tears

pairing: Dogma x reader

words: almost 2k (so the full story is under the cut)

prompt: standing/sitting quietly together

so anyway, Dogma never had a tag number canonically, so for the sake of the story i made it up.

Flashbacks in italic

__

As soon as the news was made public, the first thing Dogma thought was to see you, to hold you, to be soothed just like you were able to do... so, as soon as it was possible, he left his station, in spite of orders, and ran, ran through the narrow streets of Coruscant, past all the different levels of the city until he found himself in front of your door, but he didn't have time to even knock that you opened the door.

There were no words, you just stared at each other for a moment and the second after he hugged you there on the doorstep, holding you against him as if he was afraid you might disappear at any minute, burying his face in the crook of your neck and finally breaking into tears. He felt overwhelmed, by everyone and everything, and being in your arms right now was the only happy place he could think of wanting to be. Celebrations would surely follow but none of those mattered to him now, he just craved silence and warmth after all the chaos he had suffered.

_

When you two first met it was purely by accident, he was on his way to his reassignment to the Coruscant Guards after the whole mess that was Umbara and you were there to make a complaint. In fact, right after the last sweep on the lower levels, your diner had suffered some serious property damage and you were looking for a solution, even if it meant going up to the ground level and pestering some troopers.

Both of you were in the lounge area, you had just done yelling at some young boy whose armor wasn't quite red enough yet, who assured you that one of the Commanders would come down to talk to you and that he was sorry for the whole thing, he was just waiting to be received by Commander Fox himself, with his new armor as pristine and white as the first time he was off Kamino.

"What did you do?" you asked as soon as you entered the room, bored and tired of wasting any more time.

"Excuse me?" he answered in confusion, barely turning his head to look at you and trying to figure out if he had seen you somewhere before.

"I mean, did you break any laws or ... code that all you guys have?" you repeated, not entirely interested in what he might have to say, you were just looking for something to help pass the time.

"They're called regulations" he pointed out in annoyance..." and I don't think it's any of your business why I'm here" he added then, with a visible frown on his face.

"Alright...okay" you gave up, raising your hands in mock surrender "...it was just a question".

He didn't answer you further, due to the fact that another soldier showed up right after, his armor red from head to toe, who called him into his office.

"CT-5390, Dogma..come with me, I already have your new assignment," he instructed authoritatively, he had his helmet tucked under his arm but he still instilled fear.

Then he turned to you briefly, looking you dead in the eyes.

"I heard about your complaint, I'll let you know that Commander Stone will be here in a minute" and with that, he turned around and left.

Dogma, in response, quickly stood up and followed him but not before looking briefly in your direction and politely saying...  

"good day, ma'am" followed by a slight nod of his head.

_

"Are you okay?" you asked him moments later.

He was still in your arms, hugging you as much as he could, refusing to let go of you and he didn't care how tired he might feel, he needed to feel whole again.

"No..." he cried, another sob slipping from him.

"What else can I do to make you feel better?" you pressed again.

" Just hold me... I don't need anything else right now..." he answered quietly, his words slightly muffled by your shirt.

"Okay... but you might catch a cold out here..." you stated.... " get inside, come sit on the couch at least."

"Okay..." he replied, pulling slightly away from you.

He was tired, you could see it on his face, but there was also some kind of relief underneath, a renewed hope that hopefully would turn into a new beginning with him.

Once he was settled on your couch, you remained up in front of him, arms around his neck, watching him softly.

"So tell me, what exactly happened?"

_

The second time you saw him, he was out patrolling your level with a new squad of troopers, nothing much just overall security, considering that all the main battalions had been sent off to war and two of the Commanders were unavailable, there wasn't much else to do.

You were late for your shift, the second time this week, by this point you already knew that your friend and business partner was going to be very pissed.

It was just a week since you had reopened and things still weren't going so well.

As you tried to send a message while picking up your pace, you didn't notice what was in front of you and soon ran into a hard surface that turned out to be a trooper's armor

"oof...sorry" you quickly apologized..." I didn't see where I was going...I was in a rush"

"Don't worry, ma'am...are you okay?" the trooper in front of you promptly said, taking off his helmet quickly.

"Yeah...I guess," you started to say...but once you got a better look at him, you realized...

"Dogma?..." it slipped out of your mouth even before you could stop yourself, however when you saw his confused expression you added...." I... sorry, I'm good at memorizing names, I remember them very quickly and you probably don't remember me either...".

For the first time in your life, under his curious gaze, you were feeling slightly self-conscious.

"I... I have to say I feel like I know you..." he stuttered out at first, only to regain his composure shortly after"... I'm sorry, I'm still on duty, ma'am... we have to finish our shift for today..." he then said putting his helmet back on.

"Well, yeah sure... I have to get going too anyway, but if you... or the others are tired later, come by my diner, you can't miss it, it's the only one with the bright green sign with a snake on it..." you offered, addressing them all but with your attention still on Dogma, only to run off afterward.

After that he stood there for several seconds more, watching you leave, still baffled that anyone could even remember his name...

That very same night, after they finished their shift, the entire squad came over to your diner and although Dogma was still a little hesitant to let himself go, you still were able to get him to relax a bit.

_

He heartily smiled at your question...

So much had happened since you'd last seen each other, he'd been gone for weeks and everything had changed in a matter of seconds.

"Where do I start?..." he said.

"Wherever you want... anything you want to tell me," you just told him ... "I'm here to listen, Dogma...like I always do."

Oh, how he had missed you, your patience, the way you talked to him, the way you actually listened no matter what he had to said and the love you had for him that he felt like he didn't always deserve.

"The war is over... but you already know that," he stated.... "it seems like it's always been an inside job," eventually adding more, trying to better explain.

You just nodded to his words, giving him the time to process all the things he had been through.

" Alright, are you okay? And how is everyone else?..." you tried for more, without overstressing him.

"I...I'm fine, I guess," he admitted, wrapping his arms around you again and placing his head on your stomach..." as for the others... I actually don't know, I just...I just heard that all battalions had been ordered to return."

"...and that's good...now, what do you need?" you again asked ....  "what can I do for you?"

"I just want to sleep...and keep hugging you, please" he mumbled, eventually calming down.

His pure confession made you chuckle at how honest and lovely it was but watching him relax in your arms made your heart a little tighter.

_

After that, you met again, rather by chance.

It was at the Guard's general offices, the time he was stationed there handling paperwork and you were there with yet another complaint. What had happened was pretty simple, one of your suppliers was blocked just off the planet and had been denied landing, making your job a lot slower and almost impossible. So the best solution you could think of was going straight to the source and asking what was going on.

When you arrived, there was no one around and the offices were mostly empty except for one, so you tried your luck and went to see if anyone could help you out and fix this mess...

"Hi, is there someone I can ask about a complaint?..." you inquired, peeking into the room.

"Nature of the problem? ..." the trooper replied, visibly annoyed...

"Security...I think..." you began to explain and as you quickly stepped inside... "one of my suppliers has been denied access to the planet, I would like to know why" you continued, asking the man in front of you, although his attention was still on the report in front of him.

"Suspected smuggling most likely...but it could be worse" he vaguely stated.... " freighter model and cargo description?" he then added further still without ever looking up.

"A VCX-100, an old model actually, and it was just my monthly supply of Meiloorun juice and Corellian beer" you pointed out...". Roj is not a smuggler, I've known him since he was a little boy" you replied a little more vehemently, putting both hands on the desk and getting closer to the trooper.

"Now, take a good look at me, and help me sort out this little problem... partly because I don't want any more hassle with you."

"Listen, ma'am..." he began, lifting his head and finally looking at you.... going speechless for a brief moment.

It was you once again, and even though he was dead tired... he felt strangely happy to see you.

"Oh..." you yelped, taken aback to see that it was Dogma "...sorry...".

"No, please...I'm...I was just really tired..." he quickly apologized.... "please, take a seat and tell me again about what happened."

Despite the initial rough start, your problem was quickly solved and on that same day, you also learned how, the trooper called Dogma, was indeed nice and quite talkative, despite an initial wariness. You left the office a few hours later with a smile on your face, but not before leaving him your personal contact…

_

Days passed after that night, many others after the day that changed all, things around you were now beginning to shift and improve for the better.

When others only saw a traitor once, someone who wasn’t worthy enough love and attention, you saw a man who loved too much and ended up broken, a man who needed directions and assurance, not just orders and rules, a man who now was free from everything that used to hold him back and ready to live once again.

__

For this personal fluff December i wanted to do more, but time and real life is not by my side...so that means that there will be just another one (i have to choose who..) Unfortunately i don’t cope very well with stress so i usually write small...

Anyway, hope you like it :)

reblogs, comments or just generals interactions are welcome :)

[justalittletomato]

Maul X Reader Drabble

Shockingly not about dad!Maul! 

This little drabble is more of a start for the relationship of Maul and the reader, it will be a bit angsty mostly as Maul can’t quite grasp his emotions and the Reader is trying her best not to let her feelings be known. 

Some quick backstory to help: Reader is Mandalorian, and now works alongside the brother’s. She tends to know more than expected for someone with her status and this has saved her again and again and now here she is working with some Sith. 

Lingering Night 

The knock on the door was a welcome change from the endless text before him however he knew Savage was not up at this hour and Almec was sure to stay clear of being alone with Maul., therefore the only person could be…

“It’s me, sir. “ Y/N’s voice called out,

“I brought some data you might want to review for the council meetings, I can just leave them outside if you’d like.”

There was a shuffle and soft curse from her. Maul pulled away from the desk and stood stretching after too many hours reading endless contracts and negotiations  that would likely be revised and altered by Almec then by Y/N once again, “Enter , Y/N” The young woman poked her head in, “I just wanted to…” her face reddened and she pulled back out from the door stammering, “Sir do you want me to wait a bit longer so you can dress?”

Sometime during his work he had forgone his tunic, leaving the crimson skin and black markings of his torso bare, Y/N reaction was amusing to say the least.

“There’s no need, come in” Again a soft curse under her breath, Y/N slowly crept into the room, looking straight at his face trying her best to minimize the tale tell blush on her cheeks. Even at this late hour Y/N was still in her gown from the last council meeting so many hours prior, she walked to the desk and placed down the data pads before again just staring at his face alone,

“ You have to review the settlements with Black suns and the Pykes there’s also some government business Almec wants reviewed. If you would like I can assist, it’s governmental sanctions, place-holding the new council, reestablishing the boundaries. “  

The time for amusement was over, Maul just did the same giving her an unwavering stare, Y/N felt her composure begin to waver, “Did I misspeak, Lord Maul?”

Her eyes flitted to the floor, “I am sorry-“

he interrupted her immediately ,“ You continue to perplex me, you know more than some of the current officials. How is that?”  He picked the first data pad, Y/N had already annotated the settlements, and offered suggestions and highlighted contentious content. Each aside citing a bylaw or previous settlement that had been transacted,  Maul waited for her answer.

Y/N raised a brow, “I thought you had already heard,” given the lack of reaction from him, Y/N just took a deep breath and began,

“I’m the daughter of one of the more influential families on Mandalore, however, being a bastard only allows you education and no titles, its why I was stuck as handmaid for the past 5 years,”    

“I thought Mandalorians  didn’t care for bloodlines?” he watched as her y/ec eyes looked away a look of resentment marring her usually calm features as she mulled over how to explain the next part.  Maul  opened another data pad, more annotation. He should be angry that she was looking over all this information, but if it saved him time for the next step of the plan he was more than pleased. Y/N always brought results.

   “To a degree”, she started again  “Foundlings are gladly accepted into families as they have no one, but family loyalty in mandalore is important. Martial lines are fortified they need to be honored,” her eyes narrowed as she continued on “Having a child outside of one’s marriage is a great offense. These children are usually raised up as foundlings if they can get away with it.” she had paused Maul again looked to her, she had finally looked up at him again, her eyes had lost their brightness now just passive, “ or  you’re like me, people find out and raise you up with the stigma. Ostracized and kept away from a place that should be yours paying for a mistake that you were never a part of. “  She ended, her matter of fact tone slightly unsettling, as if she rehearsed this explanation for years. Her face was void of any affect, she kept looking at Maul waiting for the inevitable sign of dismissal or reproach. Instead Maul just gave another glance down at the pad, what could he say? He was seen as a scourge upon the galaxy maybe his lack of reaction would benefit her.

Instead he heard her release her held breath, “Well now if that is all. I’ll take my leave,I can recommend another councilor to help you Lord Maul,”  Y/N wanted to run it was pure reflex now before he could throw her out.

She turned to go struggling to keep her face calm and her tears from rising, she felt him  grab her wrist. Y/N looked back to Maul tugging her away from the door, “ as I have mentioned you know more, you started this great work let’s finish it.” golden eyes stared down at her y/ec.  She was going to run he could sense her panic he found he did not like that reaction in her, he tugged her a little more, “ You are one of my councilors and clearly the most competent.

Y/N ket out a shaky breath and allowed herself a small smile “Of course.” ,  she walked with him back to the desk, setting open the latest data pad, “Well this one is more than a bit unfair I think we can…” there she was again, composed and confident while her heart betrayed her with its insistent flutters.

She makes herself useful anything to gain favor, Maul notes as they walk to the throne room Y/N double checking the duties of the day and meetings she can help with as long as he’s around else no one would listen. However he also notes Y/N does not do it in  a manner of groveling. She needed to have a place, she needed to show she was of use, for years she had been denied this a feeling Maul knew too well and seeing Y/N flourish in her new role was a delight. He watched as  she sometimes has to bite her tongue before making a remark, her composed features only marred by a slight twitch at the corner of her full lips. He admired her composure, even as the other councils bristled y/n just refuted each time, ready with a rebuttal and if not the calmness to accept their input for consideration before returning back to Maul with another point of the argument.  He enjoyed the utter shock and anger the council showed, y/n had bested them as she always did.  She would smile at him and Maul gave her an approving nod.

“I could just choke them for you it wouldn’t be a difficult task.” They were back to working at night again, with Y/N pouring them some spice tea to keep them awake. She had learned caf made him anxious, she had walked around the gardens with him as he tried to settle back down at some point she had even gripped his hands with hers to try and help, it had, but Y/N would not risk that again. She had stayed in the room that night curling up at one side of the bed, and Maul on the other. By morning she had woken to the Zabrak curled up behind her, a glimmer of hope has risen within her only to be squandered when Maul had woken up and just apologized and promised to make sure that it wouldn’t happen again. “

To address his offer, Y/N gives him a disapproving look, “They already don’t like me, let’s not add kindle to the fire,” she looked over his shoulder and leaned over to point at the pad, “You forgot to sign this one. “ she had a hand on his bare shoulder with her lips close to his cheek, Maul normally would let her linger calmed by her proximity and helpful reminders but today he scrunched his face in annoyance, “You can’t possibly agree with this settlement. They practically want to take over the foundry.”

This is where she gave a laugh, genuine and one that tickled his cheek, Maul let the warmth wash over him before returning back to a scowl. Y/N of course elaborated what she had found,  “ Those Pykes didn’t ask about which foundry, this was one is practically depleted. I was overlooking the mining records it was seen as last resort not that they know that and the records are sealed so it could just have been an error.”

It was silent, “You should take Almec’s place, you are more competent that that blithering chess piece”  Y/N  deserved a higher status she knew the workings of Mandalore better than anyone, she could easily run this planet. With y/n at the helm he could continue his next steps to reach other regions of the galaxy and pool current resources.  The thought pleased him, his brother on his right and Y/N on his left. Y/N at his side that ever faithful Mandalorian who was ever present and who worked with him. He let himself imagine more nights going over plans and details and the ever lingering smell of Y/N’s tea collection as she whispered and let thier hands brush.  

“With you at my side the power struggles would quickly cease.” He said to her, “ You can picture it don’t you, with the three of us we’d be ready to overcome anything,” Y/N’s smile fell slightly but she didn’t dare pull away, however  she had to know , “ In what capacity do you mean?” she needed to hear him say it, thought she already knew the answer.  

Maul looked up at her from his seat, “As my advisor, me and Savage owe you that much , it’s what you deserve.” He expected her to give him another brush of thier hands as she did, instead Y/N just stared at him her y/ec eyes again slowly loosing thier brightness, and gives a small nod.

“Of course that would be an honor,”  Maul felt her pull away from his side, the familiar comfort of her presence slowly slipping away,

“ I think that’s enough for tonight,” she said gently, Y/N struggles not to throw something, how could she allow herself to react this way. She should even be feeling like this!

Maul got up slowly, “But you just poured tea,” why was she trying to go? he was giving her what she wanted, now they could be closer than before,”  I’d say we still have some time.”  

Y/N forced herself to give a half smile, “ I suppose you’re right” she sat opposite to him, Maul waited for her to bring her chair closer as they had done for the past few weeks, but she did not she just began to work and sip her tea.

Maul followed suit trying to ignore the knowing feeling that something had been twisted on both ends.

[browneyedhimbo]

Bad Plan

Pairing: Poe Dameron x Reader

Prompt:  “You haven’t even touched your food. What’s going on?” and “I’ll kick his ass if you want me to.”

Summary: You notice Poe’s been acting a little off lately and it’s time to find out why

Warnings: slight angst if you squint, flufff, language, mentions of someone almost dying, mutual pining

Word Count: 1.5k

A/N: Based off this ask. Thank you to whoever requested!! Sooo it’s like 3am and I’m finally posting this...there might be some grammar errors. Anywho, hope you enjoy! 《MASTERLIST 》

Poe had been back from his mission a few days already and he was acting differently. He would hardly look at you, barely talk to you anymore, and would find some excuse to leave the room if you were already there.

At first it kind of pissed you off, you were one of his best friends. But after day 3 you started getting worried. You would ask him if he was okay and he’d either reply with, “I’m fine,” or just completely blow you off. 

You tied racking your brain to remember if you had done or said something that unknowingly  made him mad or hurt, but you couldn’t come up with anything. But thinking about it, the day he landed on the hanger, he didn’t greet you with the normal bone crushing hug. He had given you a smile and walked on. 

A sigh fell from your lips, your heart felt heavy and your mind was cloudy. You missed your best friend. You chewed on your bottom lip, thinking over those two words. Best. Friend. You knew you had a huge crush on the pilot but you really tried hard to bury it deep down in order to not ruin your friendship. Was this why his cold shoulder hurt so much?

Making your way to the mess hall, you met up with Rose and Rey, acting as if nothing was bothering you. You three sat down at a table which was adjacent to the one Poe and the rest of the Black Squadron were sitting at. You laughed and smiled at the girls, trying to avoid looking in his direction. 

“Hey, is something going on between you and Poe?” Rey wasted no time in getting to the point.

“What do you mean?” You chuckled, playing dumb.

“You two used to do everything together, and now you’re not even looking at each other.” Your heart dropped to your stomach. It was true, and stars did it hurt. 

“I don’t even know anymore.” You took a sip of water, quickly scanning the room and noticing it mostly empty. 

“I’ll kick his ass if you want me too.” Rose said, causing you to choke on some water out of laughter. You shook and smiled sadly at them, your thoughts just making your heart ache even more.

You sighed before slightly leaning more towards them, careful to keep your voice low. “Ever since he got back from that mission a week ago he’s just been distant. No matter what I do he won’t even look at me.” You sighed, running a hand over your face.

Unbeknownst to you, Poe was definitely looking at you. From where he sat at the table he had a pretty good view of your side. A longing look had made its way to his face as he looked back down at his food, poking at it with a fork.

“Hey hotshot, you good?” Jessika knocked on the part of the table by his plate. 

“Of course, why wouldn’t I be?” He countered, but there wasn’t any conviction. No cocky emotion, no jokiness to it. His shoulders were slouched and his curls would slightly cover his eyes. This wasn’t their commander, this was a man who was hurting. Thus causing the group to turn their attention to their friend.

“You haven’t even touched your food. What’s going on?” Everyone cast him a worried glance, waiting for an answer. 

“I-” he sighed, “I can’t explain it.” He gave you one last look before getting up and heading outside. The team looked at him and each other before another conversation picked up again. 

----

It was late when you heard thudding against your door. You yawned and got up from bed, throwing on the nearest joggers and t-shirt you could find, wanting to look semi-decent instead of a hot mess from hell. 

Opening the door you saw there was nobody there, you groaned and were about to close the door when rapid little beeps from below startled you. You looked down and there was BB-8. A small made its way to your face as you bent down to pet at the little droid.

“Hey beebs, what’s up?” You asked, voice heavy and laced with sleep. 

“I need to tell you something about Poe.” Hints of urgency in his beeping.

“What about him?” Your mind jumped from worst case scenarios to best case within seconds, your heart hammering away in your chest.

“He almost didn’t make it. On the mission.” 

“He what?!” Your blood ran cold at the thought of almost losing him, and then started burning at the fact he didn’t tell you. The droid started towards your door, almost as a beckon to follow it. You opened your door and BeeBee started rolling towards the hanger, you following close behind. 

Upon entering, you heard clanking of metal and a drill, mumbled curses and sighs. You looked around and noted it was completely empty and mostly dark, except the part that illuminated one x-wing. And you knew exactly who it belonged to.

“POE DAMERON!” You bellowed, making him jump and a few tools fall. 

“Maker, Y/N what the hell?” He gasped, turning around to give you an irritated look. 

“Oh don’t you start with me Dameron!” You marched up to him. “You should thank your lucky stars, I don’t kill you myself!” You huffed, your anger getting the best of you.

“What are you talking about?” He practically whined, annoyance clearly radiating off him. 

“Why the kriff didn’t you tell me you almost died?” You put your hands on your hips, your steeled eyes slightly watering with unshed tears. 

“I...oh.” A silence fell over the hangar. Poe didn’t meet your eyes, his gaze glued to the floor as he tried to figure out what to say. But his mind drew a big blank. He bit his lip, eyes slowly racking up your figure. He took in your tense posture, the way your breathing was hard, how your eyes were glossy with tears. Wait, what?

“I’m sorry.” He finally let out, his voice tight, a lump growing in his throat. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I-I’m sorry I’ve been distant with you I just,” he inhaled a shaky breath, a hand running through his unruly curls. The sight broke your heart. You reached out a hand and he took it without hesitation. 

“Why’d you do it?” You whisper, afraid if you spoke too loud your voice would fail you. His eyes scanned your face before giving your hand a gentle squeeze.

“Because I...I almost, y’know died, I just...I figured being distant with you would make it easier for when the day actually came.” He looked down again sheepishly, tears slowly rolling down his cheeks. 

“So...let me get this straight.” You cleared your throat, your own tears cascading down. “The best way you thought of dealing with almost dying was to be cold and distant with me, so that in the unfortunate event you do die, it wouldn’t hurt me as much?” His curls bopped as he nodded his head. 

“Well, when you put it that way…” he trailed, meeting your eyes. 

“You do realize it'd hurt me no matter what. Right.” He nodded again and you felt the lump in your throat tighten. There was a beat of silence before he opened his mouth again. 

“What’s going to happen to us?”

“What do you mean?” You tried to sound confused but failed miserably. 

“Don’t play dumb Y/N/N, I know I’m not the only one who noticed there was something else there.” He squeezed your hand again, and you felt your heart lurch in your chest. A small smile made its way to your face, tears blurring your vision. 

“I thought...I, but I thought,” you tumbled over your words. The possibility of Poe liking you back had never once crossed your mind. To say you were stunned was an understatement.

“You thought what, that I wouldn’t like you back? That I wouldn’t fall in love with you?” Your mind completely froze and went into overdrive at the same time. 

“Did-did you just,” you point at him. A boyish smile makes its way to lips as he runs his free hand through his hair.

“Yeah.” He bit his lip, a blush creeping its way up his neck and settling on his cheeks. “Does this mean I can kiss you?” He asks so softly if you weren’t paying attention you might’ve missed it.

“I’ve honestly been dying to hear you ask that.” You smiled so wide your cheeks were starting to hurt. 

“So..that’s a yes?” He chuckled, always enjoying teasing you. 

“Yes that’s a yes!” You giggled. The interlaced your fingers and brought his other hand to cup your cheek, pressing a slow yet loving kiss to your lips. You felt a flutter in your chest and smiled into the kiss, unable to contain your happiness. 

“This doesn’t change the fact that I’m mad at you for almost dying.” You said breathlessly as he pulled away. 

“I’ll make it up to you. I promise,” he smiled that charming bashful smile and pecked your lips once again. And he kept to his promise, making it up to you in more ways than one.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Permanent tags: @becausewhyknotme @disasterbuckley​ @imma-new-soul @justmebeingtheweirdmeiam @officialtonystarkprotectionsquad @theladyoffangorn @itsunclebucky @mushyjellybeans @writingforhoursonend @agentpeggybarnes @fangirl-introvert @ninjabucky @cosmicbucky @yougottakeeponkeepinon @this-kitten-is-smitten

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[please let me know if you want me keep tagging you, stop tagging you, or if it’s becoming annoying]

[welllpthisishappening]

21 for the kiss prompts. because I am me LOL

Alright, so, full disclosure, this is not CS fic. I was going to write CS fic for this. i was! I had this vaguely angsty Emma gets hurt and Killian loses his mind thing happening, but then—I didn’t write that. Instead, here’s Will Scarlet gets hurt and Belle French loses her mind and it’s hockey. It’s 2,000 words! I don’t know how that happened. Anyway, the prompt here was “bloody kiss” and I love Will Scarlet with the force of a thousand suns. If you guys want to send more kiss prompts, I’m still waiting for people to respond to my emails.

“You’re mad.”

“Your powers of deduction are truly unparalleled. What gave me away, exactly?”

Will bit his lower lip. Let his teeth dig down until he tasted blood and, well—more blood, he supposed. Six stitches later, though, and there wasn’t much blood left on his face, just a pair of narrow eyes doing their best to glare a hole through his cranium and he didn’t think that was entirely possible. 

Biology had never been his strong suit, really. Unless you counted hauling off and punching some rat-faced bastard on the Caps who couldn’t keep his goddamn mouth shut about a possible offsides that had maybe happened two periods before and they’d been winning and it was fine. Totally fine. This was his job. Punching and bruising up assholes. Just a little bit, to remind them who they were playing and what was on the line and—

It was entirely possible Belle’s eyes were not entirely human. 

His face flushed. Heat raced through either one of his cheeks, threatening what he could only assume was the structural integrity of his own eyes because Will couldn’t remember when he’d decided to widen them, exactly. Just that they were starting to dry out a little bit and Ariel was going to kill him. 

She’d made that very clear post-game. 

There might be a two-person line to wreak havoc, now. 

“You get this little pinch between your eyebrows,” Will said, leaning forward until the top of his head nearly hit the bottom of her chin, “makes it easy to tell.”

Belle huffed. Crossed her arms. Nearly punched him in the face, which would have been something close to the peak of irony at this point, and then maybe Ariel wouldn’t threaten to kill him again. No, that was wishful thinking. 

It’d be a miracle if they were allowed uptown later. Ariel had probably sent out an APB, or whatever the culinary equivalent of that was. No admittance until the blood had dried off his forehead and he laid prostrate at her feet, begging forgiveness for the error of his ways. 

Like hell, he would.

This was his job. He was the—

Fuck, maybe he was a goon. He hadn’t scored in a while. Not even a secondary assist, or anything. Skating at the edge of the blue line on a fledgling power play did not an All-Star make, and, well, now that he thought about it, maybe Will had started jawing first. There were mumbled insults, at least. 

From him, specifically. More than once, actually. 

“I don’t think you’re supposed to be back here, y’know.”

The pinch got—

Pinchier. Deeper. Like a tiny, little crevice between what Will was starting to realize were meticulously cared-for eyebrows and maybe he should get a CT scan or an MRI or something because it had taken him this long to notice she was also wearing his jersey. Too-long sleeves grazed the slight bend of her knuckles, looking as if she was actively stopping herself from fisting her hands at her side and that thought wasn’t supposed to make him smile. 

Still. 

Will’s lips tugged up. His eyes thinned. Nose crinkled ever so slightly. Something that had been growing increasingly familiar in the last few months of the season jumped between his ribs, like little flutters of wholly imaginary wings, and she kept wearing his jersey. Kept coming to games, and that was good because they’d gotten past the labels and expectations, all of which were sky-high on the NHL’s most romance-prone hockey team. 

God, maybe he wasn’t just a goon. Maybe he was a complete and total asshole. 

“This is Cap’s fault,” Will announced, and he’d been ready for the pinch. He was less prepared for those eyebrows he was starting to become a tad obsessed with to soar up Belle’s forehead, past the swoop of bangs that regularly messed with his cognizant reasoning. 

She scoffed. “Are you fucking with me?”

“No, but maybe when we get back to—”

“I will kick you in the shins, Scarlet, I swear to every God you can think of.”

He tried not to deflate. Really, he did. But his name seemed to crack out of her, punching the bridge of his nose like Belle had actually pulled her right arm back and her scoff was more like an exhale that time. That had never happened. 

Even before. Before the labels and the attempts at setting up Killian and watching that entire season and how often he stared longing at Emma, before Regina and Locksley continued to be parents extraordinaire and the jealousy started to eat away at him. Slowly, but surely and he never talked about that, but he figured she knew because Belle knew everything and—

“Bet you twenty bucks you could name more gods than I could.”

Another sigh. A tilt of her head. It made her bangs shift. He wasn’t sure what was happening in his chest. Expanding and contracting, a painful rhythm that hurt way more than the stitches or the shitty metaphors and he was glad she’d snuck into the locker room. Will didn’t want her anywhere else. 

Naming conventions, aside. 

“I’m sorry—” “—I love you.”

He almost fell over. Impressive, since Will was still sitting down and his feet didn’t entirely reach the floor from that position. His jaw dropped. He hated that. Partially because it hurt and mostly because he should have been way cooler, wanted to be way cooler, but there were dots of red on his girlfriend’s cheeks and teeth digging into her lower lip, now, and he resolutely ignored the ache in his calves when he slid back to his feet. 

Curling an arm around her waist, he didn’t think much about the precise way he yanked her. Forward. Directly into his chest and that didn’t leave much room to bend his knees, but Will was less concerned with specifics and the staging of this than actually getting to the good part. 

The kissing part. 

Plus, Belle pushed up on her toes. So, that helped. 

He groaned. Loudly, like embarrassingly loud. As soon as her head tilted and he could get his mouth on hers and they were all hands and lips and whatever she was doing with her tongue, tracing the lip he’d been so intent on biting through just a few moments before. Bending his knees did give Will some more leverage. To pull her even closer, moving his arm and ignoring her soft protests. 

Most of them died when he managed to get a hand under her left thigh. 

She groaned. Something to be said about symmetry, Will assumed. Although he also didn’t really...care. About the saying, mostly. Not when he was melting and falling, dropping into the deep end of a pool that was a shock to his system and the best thing that had ever happened to him and she was the best thing that had ever happened to him. Bar none. 

Especially when she did that tongue thing. 

Closing his eyes, he knew he had to tilt his head. Had to breathe and stay conscious and he didn’t want to think about the medical requirements of a professional hockey player at a time like that, but he knew consistent awareness of his surroundings was probably fairly important and the roar of triumph blaring through his brain made that a little difficult. Breathing would have to be enough for now. 

“I can’t—” Belle’s shoulders heaved. Fingers dragged across the back of Will’s neck and he had to admit he was fairly impressed with her balance. Her right foot wasn’t on the ground. “Shit, I—” He pulled her lip between his teeth, tried to memorize the next hitch of her breath and he was about five-point two-three seconds away from losing his mind. Rocking his hips up was a very bad idea. He did it anyway. “Babe, I can’t think when you do that.”

Everything was spinning. He was spinning. No, that wasn’t true. He wasn’t spinning. He was standing and touching and there was barely any color left in Belle’s eyes. 

Pride prickled at the back of Will’s brain. Until pain joined the fray, making a glorious and unwelcome return at the precise moment he realized there was moisture on his cheek again. Warm and red and Ariel was going to kill him. 

“Cap and Emma were making out in the hallway,” Will explained, “pre-game. Nothing they don’t normally do, and I don’t even think they knew I was there.”

“Is any of this supposed to make me feel better?”

He nodded. “I love you, too. Like it’s ridiculous how in love with you I am.”

Silence. As much as there could be in a locker room, at least. Water fell from shower heads a few hundred feet away, the low murmur of questions and Lucas-approved answers, squeaking sneakers and clacking heels, and the familiar sound of wheels rolling across linoleum as the equipment hampers moved down the hall. 

Will took a deep breath. 

Slowly, through his nose. Keeping the nerves off his face was harder than he expected, and even more ridiculous than whatever he’d just proclaimed because Belle had proclaimed first and it was entirely possible they were both colossal idiots. That put them on even ground, though. 

He appreciated that. 

“Why were you mad, ma moitié?”

There was the pinch, again. “Why do you think?” Will shook his head, brushing hair away from her eyes and he knew he didn’t imagine that sigh, either. Softer. More content. All that previous even ground. “Because I—” Belle started, and the color hadn’t left her face yet. “I know you think you’ve got to be this guy. Out there defending, not just the goal but the people and that’s...I’m super into that.”

“But?”

“But it makes me so nervous, I could spit.’

Will genuinely had no idea what noise he made. It might not have been human, really. Tearing out of his throat, his eyes bugged and he bent over without really meaning to, forehead finding Belle’s shoulder like that was the only reasonable landing place. He was still bleeding. Or bleeding again, whatever. 

“Say that again,” he mumbled. Into her jersey. His jersey. Whatever, part two. 

“Spit,” she repeated, making sure to enunciate every letter, “because I know you can hold your own in a fight, and that’s how you think you make a difference on this team, but—”

“It is that’s why.”

“Was my shin-kicking threat not threatening?”

He kissed exactly where his lips were. “Not really, no.”

“‘Cuz I’ll totally do it, I swear. To all those gods and goddesses and then they’ll descend from on high and tell you that they also think you’re an idiot who should know that letting some rat on the ice get under your skin is exactly what they’re trying to do. Plus, it’s way better when you check them, y’know?”

Lifting his head didn’t hurt. Made him a little nervous, anxiety churning his gut and this was not the way Will thought this would happen. Maybe he could get Belle to kick Killian too. For the making out. And the unspoken frustration. He was definitely an idiot. “Is it just?”

“Don’t make me say it.”

“Don’t have to. You’re very easy to read.”

Belle lifted her eyebrows. More. “That so?’

“You think it’s super attractive when I check another dude.”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Didn’t have to. Also, I love you.”

“You mentioned that before, yeah.”

“And I am sorry for freaking you out.” Sigh number three wasn’t quite as resigned as the others, but it still left guilt rising in the back of Will’s throat and every single inch of him froze. As soon as Belle leaned around him, grabbed a far-too-large handful of gauze and started wiping blood off his cheek. “That’s way too much, babe.”

“Ariel can deal.”

“Ya gonna kick her too?”

“I’ll consider it,” Belle mumbled, back on both feet again. For, like, two seconds. Before she pushed back up on her toes, kissed the corner of Will's mouth, and added, “Don’t do that to me again, ok?”

“Aye, aye, Cap.”

He had much better reflexes than her. Pulling her back to his side before either one of her shoes could land a blow was easy and bordering almost close to joyful and that was a strange thing for him to be, but it was also easy and somehow even more simple and Ariel let them into the restaurant that night. They stayed for all of fifteen minutes. 

And Will told Belle he loved her once every five minutes on the cab ride back to his apartment. 

He timed it, and everything. Just to make sure the color stayed in her cheeks.

[bijoharvelle]

i saw this post from @top13zepptraxx and uh...... i wrote the angst. cw: major character death [cas]

Faintly, Dean realizes that the wordless shout of rage, of despair, came from him. Some part of him is still lunging forward, stopped only by Sam holding him. He fights, blindly, only registering Cas, Cas’s body, Cas falling to his knees and then collapsing back and then the searing flash of grace released. Cas was so diminished that it only lasts a second.

Between one blink and the next, Cas is dead on the ground, his tarnished wings spreading ash across tallgrass and dandelions. 

“I can’t believe I didn’t think of it before,” Chuck says, as if he’s just solved an insect infestation. “It was always Castiel, wasn’t it? What did Naomi call him -- the famous spanner in the works?” Chuck laughs, almost fondly. Crouching, he leans close to Cas’s face.

“Get away from him!” Dean yells and he’s staggering forward. Sam let his guard down, so Dean is up in God’s face in a second.

He can remember a roadside fast-food shack. A last ditch prayer with desolation crowding in on his chest. He can remember, forever, the silence in answer.

There’s a cruel twist to Chuck’s grin as he looks up from the husk of Castiel to Dean. “I created so many worlds,” he says, his tone one of wonder, “so many universes. And in all of them -- every one of them, Dean -- he loved you.”

There’s something rising up in Dean and it might be bile, it might be tears. It might be that hollow, choking feeling that has followed every defeat they’ve found their way into, every unforced error, every blockade that’s risen from the snowmelt of every almost-success. All that comes out, though, is a strangled out cry.

He trades positions with God. Chuck rises to his feet as Dean drops to knees. He reaches out, strokes at the sweaty fringe that falls over Cas’s forehead.

“Did you know that? That he loved you?”

He thought it, maybe. Had considered it, some dark nights. He thought it as he watched Cas walk back into a Gas ‘N’ Sip in Idaho and he thought it as he watched the angel back from the dead next to a payphone and he thought it as Cas showed him the truth of Purgatory and he thought it as he said, lost, “For what it’s worth, I would give anything not to have you do this.” He thought it and rejected it and thought it and rationalized why it couldn’t be.

“Some part of you must have,” Chuck is saying but he’s mostly white noise to Dean. Everything else is white noise, except Cas. “He wasn’t exactly subtle about it, was he?”

There was one time. The night before he let Cas go in Idaho. There were looks and thick swallows and there was Cas’s hand at his shoulder and Dean’s hands at Cas’s hips, suddenly, and Cas’s back against a motel wall. And then…there was nothing. 

Because Dean shuddered through an inhale and ducked his head and Cas said his name and Dean stuttered something about a shower and then…that was it.

Maybe Dean’s whole life has just been a series of missed chances, one after another, with the biggest, most important one laid out before him. Some part of him, some deep twist at the base of his stomach, knows that this isn’t like any of the times before. Isn’t even like the time with Lucifer at the lake. Because Cas is really gone (like that time) but something sure and certain and crippling inside Dean is whispering that he’s not coming back. You don’t come back when God personally kills you.

“Hey!”

Similarly, when God wants your attention, you’re a little powerless.

“What?” Dean barks. Because Chuck might be God but he still just killed Cas.

“You’re not listening,” Chuck says, sounding like a petulant second-grader.

Dean is halfway to spitting out a “fuck you” when Chuck reaches out. And Dean thinks, This is it and This is how I die and, optimistically, Coming, Cas.

But it doesn’t come, Death. Chuck puts his fingers to Dean’s forehead and it hits him like lightning. Knowledge… It takes him a minute to realize what exactly he’s seeing: those other universes. All the ways Cas has loved him.

There’s the horrible world taken over by Croatoans. There’s a pink-cheeked, dazed Cas sprawled over a dilapidated armchair in a cabin with a beaded curtain. His hair is dirty and a mess and when that terrible version of Dean from 2014 stalks forward, he fists his hand in the hair. Cas grins with all his teeth and tips his chin to meet Dean’s eyes. Dean says something, close and soft and heated. Cas’s face changes, warms, melts, and his eyes go to half-mast. Dean leans forward into him.

There’s a world shot through with grayscale and Cas has a soldier’s set to his shoulders and hair that’s so neat it almost looks messy again. He’s standing in some barren wasteland and his eyes are to the sky. He’s staring and staring and staring and Dean can remember his Cas staring at a motel’s ceiling, cursing his deadbeat dad.

There’s a park and there are children running happily. There’s sun, so much sun, and there’s Jack and Sam laughing as they chase some toddler and there’s Cas looking at Dean, who’s watching the mismatched game of tag. And there’s Dean, looking back and finding Cas’s eyes and smiling. Dean reaches back and his hand is open and waiting, for Cas. All for Cas.

There’s a barn, and there’s a prophet’s house, and there’s a ring of holy fire, and there’s a reservoir, and there’s Purgatory, and there’s a crypt, and there’s the bunker, and there’s a Mark on his arm, and there are arms around him from behind, and there’s Lucifer’s sick grin, and there’re wings burned into a lake shore, and there’s a call coming through as Steppenwolf plays, and there’s a Jack’s body cradled in a graveyard, and there’s Cas’s dejected shoulders, and Cas’s angry spine, and there’s a blossom from Purgatory and there’s Cas, there’s Cas, there’s Cas.

There’s, finally, a bed.

It’s in a room of mostly mid-tone wood and there’s sunlight coming in from a window, casting lines across the bed.

There’s Cas, sprawled on his stomach with his hair even more of a wreck than usual and he’s not wearing a shirt and his face is tipped so the soft smile there is obvious. And Dean is underneath him. It’s not some other Dean that he’s watching like out-of-body, no, this is Dean. He can feel the weight of him, the heat. He can feel the slight shift as Cas breathes in and out, he can feel the smooth skin between Cas’s shoulder blades, where his hand is running up and down.

Dean is crying and he slides his fingers into Cas’s hair. He snuffles at the touch and stirs and his smile goes even wider. Dean cries harder, full sobs that wrack through his chest but Castiel doesn’t seem to notice.

He opens his eyes and smiles at Dean. Reaching, he laces their fingers together and cocks his head. “Hello, Dean,” he says, like he’s said a hundred, a thousand, times before and Dean can’t breathe. A cloud moves and the sun is brighter. Dean can feel it on his bare skin, he can see the shadows it makes over Cas’s cheeks. “I love you,” Cas says quietly. Dean’s never seen him so easy, so calm, so...at peace.

The bed falls out from under him and Dean is landing on hands and knees and there’s just bluegrass and ash under his fingers. “No, no, no,” he’s chanting. He can feel his stomach turning and he can’t breathe.

“Maybe now you’ll learn to play by my rules,” Chuck says, and then he’s gone.

A moment later, or maybe it’s an hour, or maybe it’s a second, Sam is at his side and holding onto his shoulders. “Dean, c’mon,” he’s saying. His words are waterlogged. “Please, Dean…”

It must have been more than just seconds, though, because when Dean comes back to his sight, Jack is on the ground too, his head on Cas’s chest. All curled up on the corpse of his father.

Dean shakes his head. He stands, dirt sifting through his hands as he goes. 

The imprint of Cas’s wings burnt into the ground bear a handprint, high on the left, where Dean levels himself up off the ground.

“Dean?” he hears behind him as he turns, sees the Impala shining in the setting sun.

“C’mon, Sam,” he says. He shrugs one arm up, wiping at the raw-red of his eyes. He worries his bottom lip with his tongue and then, more to himself than anyone else, murmurs, “We got work to do.”

*

@prayedtoyou • @vcastiel • @good-things-do-happen-dean • @cas-you-assbutt-dean-needs-you • @bianca29753 • @spaceshipkat • @wanderingcas • @601218764 • @nickelkit • @dizzypinwheel • @epple-benene • @kayrosebee • @randomlikes24 • @feraladoration • @queenvee08 • @thursdaysangels   

[ranmanjuu]

Could you write some hc’s for a zombie apocalypse au? Can you write it for Sasuke, Mitsunari and Ranmaru? Thank you!!! ☆*:. o(≧▽≦)o .:*☆

hey op are you a mind reader because this’s actually been an idea of mine for a while now (but again, lack of motivation hsaglhsa) and i’m ???? (also my three most favorite characters i’m !!!!) thank you for enabling me. it’s a bit different than what i had in mind for the original fic and it has just a liiil bit of world building details but enjoy!

—sasuke:

sasuke works in what they call the “safe zone”, ran by the government. you yourself never did go there—a decision well-made, in your opinion. rumor’s spread through the city that every day a good number of people were kicked out due to lack of resources, and their workers being put through hell to also not get fired and thrown out. but you never really did regard it as either true or otherwise.

it didn’t matter to you—until you met sasuke.

he’d been faring rather well, with footsteps silent as ever. it was the matter of food, water, shelter. the needs of his body would kill him before the zombies did—the simple matter of even eating a contaminated piece of candy could mean the end for him.

and there you found him, in a dark alleyway, fading in and out of consciousness; hungry, weak, cold, dirty—you didn’t think it through when you dragged his body to where you stayed.

it’s too late, you thought, watching his body wrapped in layers of blankets writhe awake, might as well let him stay for a bit.

as soon as sasuke could sit up, you immediately gave him food and water. snacks were better than nothing. as his body desperately gobbled the food up (he tried to cover it, but to no avail), you explained what happened.

“. . . as soon as you’re done, grab the set of clothes there and leave.” even words as cold as yours were said, the slight hesitance pooling in your eyes said otherwise. if he noticed, he never commented.

instead, he asked you while you were heading to the door, “and where are you going, if i may ask?”

“. . . fix the power outlet.” you answered warily; you never knew what people could do with information. you hated the distrust, but it was a given at times. “autumn’s coming, it’s gonna be cold.”

and you thought it was the end, worst case scenario is he’d sabotage you. but you tried to stave off the suspicion—

“i can go along, if you want. i know how they operate.” you stopped your tracks, silently looking back to sasuke and making your judgement for the decision. “i’m fairly knowledgeable with electronics.” he explained further.

your heart and mind weighed the offer. on one hand, so far you’ve been fooling around and picking up things with trial and error. on the other hand, it’d be easy for him to make it shit for you. a sigh, you grabbed a crowbar and half-assedly pointed it at him, “okay, i’ll stave off the zombies. i see you doing fuck-all, it’s over.”

even at your threat (one you hated to make, at that), sasuke’s expression remained stoic with a nod, “i understand.”

you watched his movements with hawk’s eyes, while decapitating any approaching undeads. but the swarm grew bigger and bigger—you thought security was better than this, but oh well. it’s not something you can’t deal with.

even so—you hurt your leg. prosthetic one, lost in a reckless accident and replaced with a stiff and quite low-quality metallic one. “fuck—” you scowled, looking behind at sasuke for a moment, “are you done?”

“——yes.” a brief answer, “let’s get out now—” with surprising agility, he grabbed your hand and fled the scene.

you were mildly pissed at those walking corpses for crushing your prosthetic leg, it’d take a while to trade with someone out there to repair it, if you couldn’t do a shitty job of it yourself.

but to your mild surprise, sasuke knew how to do it. just a few scraps of whatever piece there was lying about, some tools, and it’d be fine, he said. the usual wave of distrust fell over you—but it somehow felt easier to agree and leave it up to him. a repayment of sort.

and over time, it seems like the universe made an effort to put excuses for sasuke to stay, whether it’d be ventilation problems, electrical, mechanical  —it was impressive, no doubt. you’d soon take him in permanently under the guise of him being useful (but it’s more of sympathy really, you’re aware of that fact.)

and even on the off-time, you spent most of it talking to him. silence ringing around the rooms with occasional guttural growls of the zombies weren’t the best atmosphere, so to say. but he’d often crack jokes (which earned a nose exhale, or chuckles on a good day).

he’d tell you about his experience working in the equally suffocating safe zone—everyone’s working for themselves and friends don’t exist much, as you understood it. a dog eat dog world, where everyone scrambles to be the most useful and cram their brains to the brim while distrusting everyone.

and you felt a semblance of relatability in his detachment to people—but why does it secretly hurt for you? the thought of him dismissing your bond. . .

it hurts; you don’t know why.

and of course, he has more knowledge about zombies than the ones you just pick up from experience. in fact, it’s been a speculation that the virus withheld the body from decomposing—but not limiting it. in a about a year, he guessed, they’d rot away.

“does. . .does that mean this can end if they drop and infections decrease?” you asked, letting the curtain crack open to hope.

“. . .best case scenario, yes.” even as his face remain mostly stoic, you see the crinkles of hope, melancholy, happiness.

you don’t recall how you got to the decision—not a logical stream of thought at least. it jumped like an instinct for you to just propose it, nothing else— “sasuke, you wanna stay with me until then?”

a look of surprise overcame your hushed question, so filled with long-lost warmth. but similarly, the answer came immediately, “of course.” his hand reached to yours, tender and soft, the most you’ve felt in forever, “i’ll stay. face the past, present, and future with you.”

—mitsunari:

a strategist wasn’t a job common in modern times, but it’s one mitsunari’s taken during the apocalypse. securing paths, ways to efficiently scout out, etc. that’s why to say he was utterly baffled when a major breach reached his group—the oda—flooded the zombies inside.

the last thing clearly in his mind was hideyoshi’s firm order. the blur of rotten flashed around, the words echoed around, “everyone, flee immediately!”

and so he did. perhaps farther than he planned at first with the enormous swarm behind him. no matter where, it wasn’t safe—until he didn’t even know clearly where he was. and he’d remember the city layout, along with some areas outside of it.

he’s lost.

analyzing every path that he could take, his mind was too overtaken to realize a zombie spying overhead. only once the slight sounds of rasped growls did he notice—

and even so, a loud crack got it away from him. it’s dead now, he realized, and right beside the bloodied corpse was you.

“what are you doing, just standin’ here?” you asked, a small sign of irritation by the scowl on your face visible. but it remained flying over mitsunari’s head, even after you sigh, “it doesn’t matter—not now. come on, follow me.”

his surprise quickly dissipated as soon as you made your way into the twists and curves of an alleyway. you’re well-versed of here, he noted.

he took notice of many things on the way, how you’re always well armed with knowledge of the zombies weak spots, how they’re sensitive to noise, how you seemed to know which path would crumble if stepped on.

only when he entered where you stayed, a safe place, was he painfully aware how worn and tired his body felt—and you did too, quickly sitting him down and handing some snacks while also asking things about him. who he was, why he was there, so on.

he explained the breach, the split of his group, how he ended up here and you listened to every detail with your own cogs working along with his. “and where was your base?”

“nearby lake biwa.” mitsunari didn’t know where he was, but the way your face scrunched up didn’t seem too good.

“how did you even get here? lake biwa’s a good three cities—ah, fuck.” the constant tapping of your fingers did few to stave off either worry or just mild irritation, you didn’t know yourself. “and if you really did flee, there’s a chance they went in separate directions, too.”

he listened in you assessment, already making plans on how to search around in his head. but your proposition slightly baffled him—

“i’ll help you find whoever this group is.” with words that sounded kind, the slight discontent in your face went unnoticed by the other.

you yourself didn’t understand—years of wariness and distrust has led you to distance yourself from everyone—but why was it different with him?

“there is no need—”  /  “come on, it’s easier with two people right? you’ll go quicker.”

though words often harsh, mitsunari was a master in dismissing that with cluelessness. each time you declined that you wanted to help him because you wanted to, you kept saying it’s to be faster. but it didn’t matter to him, you were helping, and he cherished that.

days went on, with some city maps sprawled across the floor written on it some routes to search for. and maybe filling the air with conversation from time to time lifted your heart just a bit.

you’ve caught on his horrible self-care habits a long time ago. even as he’s very well-versed in most subjects (amazingly so,) he still read whatever book you had. and you’ve experienced his reading-trance.

you’d often scold him each time—especially in the instance of an expedition where he gets caught up in planning. even forgetting to eat would result in a disappointed gaze from you (rightfully so in your opinion, these were times of desperation from starvation). but he was improving.

you find yourself opening up to him, for the first time in a long one. the thought of sleeping in the presence of another made you revolt originally; but you felt safe with him.

soon, both of you’s efforts weren’t for nothing. traces of his group—”nobunaga” and “hideyoshi”, he told you—was temporarily taking base on the outskirts of the next city.

and suddenly, the concept of him leaving you created a pit of darkness inside. you’ll be alone, the walls will no longer echo your laughs and his soft voice; but instead silence.

from then on, you find each day a small struggle for it to stretch as long as possible. staying up just so you could feel being near mitsunari while awake, clinging onto whatever you could for now. it hurts, more than anything you’ve felt—but it’d be selfish for you to take him from the thing he’s spent this much time searching.

but the world wasn’t known for mercy, it never was since forever. time flowed as normal, and the day came. “. . .pack up a bit. it’s gonna be a long journey, and we’ll need to stay in some shitty abandoned house.” your voice came as a silent croak. mitsunari wasn’t often aware of picking up hints—but he was painfully aware now.

“. . .and why do you look so sad?” his words were spoken with gentle sadness, a tad bit of melancholy. as much as you wanted to avoid it for less damage to your heart, he already took your chin to tilt it to his face. you never wanted to say goodbye to his twinkling lilac eyes, it was the closest to warmth you’ve felt.

slowly. . .you were crying, sobbing. each shake from your shoulders sent painful stabs to mitsunari’s heart. and even as you were hurting—both of you were—you wrapped your arms around his, diving your nose to his chest.

“. . .i-i’m happy. . for you. i really am—.”

you didn’t remember anything else of that night, only the tender voice he spoke to you akin to bells from heaven jingling.

the next day, and the day after, the rest of the oda were found. overwhelmed by the many faces you didn’t know, you simply sat back and watched what would be your eventual farewell. you didn’t listen into what they were talking about; it didn’t matter much. at least you’d see him smile like that one last time.

only when he turned to you were you brought back to reality, staring with those earnest purple eyes. you know the others were observing in silence, you didn’t pay attention to it. only mitsunari. . .the one you. . .l-loved?

. . .yeah. you loved him.

he made his way to you. once you faced each other, he gently lifted your hands in his, and brought it to his chest. you felt the beats, ba-dump ba-dump, fast against his clothes.

“this may not be an easy request to ask of you. . .” he started. the fondness were now pooling in his eyes, and you were sure it was the same for you, “but. . . would you please stay with us. . .? my heart feels heavy of leaving you.”

—ranmaru:

it pained him, more than anything in his life. he wasn’t sure which would feel better, if the oda died and otherwise. from a breach that he caused. ranmaru wants to just disappear—but that wouldn’t be fair for a traitor like him, he didn’t deserve such mercy. he’s supposed to return to kennyo one way or another, but he just couldn’t. his legs kept on running and running—perhaps not from the zombies, but from his own swallowing fears and hatred for himself. it felt absolutely revolting to be in his own skin right now.

and for a moment, ranmaru considered if it was better. to just succumb to the pack of zombies in front of him. he knows how to fight them, maybe improv his way out—but he doesn’t want to. and just as his muscles fell limp in an act of surrender—

BANG—!

and that was the first time he saw of you; on the other side of the conglomeration of rotten flesh, gun pointed up to the air with no trace of fear or regret. and quickly, the attention of the zombies were quickly taken from him, and onto you.

and he felt the fear for you, you shouldn’t’ve done that for him. . .!

even so, there was nothing he could do. the last of he saw you then was you mouthing a clear word to him: “run.”

he did, and so did you. ranmaru’s mind screamed, scraping at the walls of his insides to not, but instinct and adrenaline took control more than anything.

he didn’t know where he was running—but wherever it was, you miraculously found him. and you managed to drag him to your base, no matter how many times he rejected.

as soon as you two arrive, he’s much more reserved than usual. not that you’d know, you just consider it normal to be that much quiet from a near death experience. you gave him food, a set of clothes, and water. but as time went on, you noticed he didn’t so much as touch it.

eventually, you had to push him to do it, even if his body felt sickening to its core. slowly, ranmaru told you little bits of his story, leaving out many parts (like the fact he was the orchestrating traitor). and just like mitsunari, you find an unknown source inside you just. . . allowing yourself to help him.

and because ranmaru wasn’t as much a strategist as mitsunari was, your execution was a lot more of wandering than anything.

and during those outings, you start to notice how weirdly capable he is. he’s switched back to his cheery, bubbly self, yes. but you catch how he’s so skilled with swords, sneaking around in inhumane silence. you waved your first encounter as a product of turmoil, and that he was as fragile that he framed himself, but. . .

the thought of him being a traitor to you, putting up a mask like that, it settled a churning feeling in your stomach. you’ve gotten so used to, enjoying even, his hugs and rambles—nights that were previously spent sleeplessly, just staring out the window and to the shit world splayed across it, were now filled with talks about silly and pointless things.

it reminded you of how it was before all this.

just like young school friends having a sleepover, you found a happiness and light feeling in you that was buried since quite a while.

along with that were times where you got serious. it wasn’t often, ranmaru would try to change the subject. but you were your own stubbornness; running away from something wasn’t a good way to go, you knew this.

and you’d always be aware of how his eyes seemed like a dark pit of untouched emotions. like the mere existence of the conversation was weighing him down a thousand pounds.

to add, you pick up on some inconsistencies to his stories. . .first he said  that the loud speakers in the building overrode the zombies’ sensitivity to sound and caused them to break everything like the windows and doors (even the locked ones, he added), then he said that it was because they were open in the first place. how he says only one person withheld the keys to certain places, then he said how said places were miraculously open later on. . .

you came to just a small conclusion.

“then, there’s a traitor, right?”

your words were toned in a way that was like just a throwaway line—unimportant, irrelevant—but ranmaru still tensed up, like a deer in headlights. fear, anxiety, regret; it all chipped away at him slowly.

and you’ve been friends for a good time now—you caught this. and it wasn’t just surprise either, it’s like he secretly knew.

in the end, an answer was never said. he just called it a night, and you let him.

it’ll be resolved in the morning, you thought, going back to your worn out mattress. and, just like many nights, you simply stared out at the sky with a mostly blank mind.

but then, you heard footsteps.

unstable, but not the way a zombie’s would. it’s not disarrayed, and they couldn’t get up anyway, not with all the security you set up. it can only be a human’s then. . .

you grabbed your crowbar, and silently left your room. a dark figure stood in the hallway, silently making their way to the stairs next floor. before you pursued, you tilted your head to ranmaru’s room.

it’s open, and empty.

your steps became quicker and quicker, hoping nothing bad happens as each staircase brought a chain of doubt and anxiety over you.

the rooftop. the figure—who you assume is ranmaru—stood in silence over the edge. the moon and stars’ light shone on them, and it was your dear friend. the soft purple-pinkish hair dusted over his head so perfectly, played by the breeze.

“ranmaru.” you called out. his body flinched. “what are you doing here. .?”

for a moment, he didn’t respond. you saw how his shoulders shook while his overall self was trying to make him as small as possible, but no words were said.

“answer me,” you took a step, hesitant, “please.”

“. . .i’m sorry.”

his voice was quiet, cracked, as if it could shatter at any moment. what were you supposed to do, seeing your dearest friend on the edge like that. . .?! all you could was reach your hand out—and take his.

“wh—” before he could say anything, you pull him into your arms, wrapping them securely around him. his shuddered breaths, then turned into sobs and cries. slowly and weakly, the hug was returned.

“. . .what am i supposed to do?” he sound so horribly lost, afraid, your own heart was ripping. “everything i do—the food tastes like sand in my mouth, every step feels wrong to take, i—i don’t know what to do!”

ranmaru broke down in front of you, and you let him. words were slurring into thoughtless ramblings and rants. there wasn’t a thing you understood completely, but—

“please, ranmaru, i. . .” your arms tightened around him. he’s alive, he’s safe. “please stay with me. we’ll get through this, just—i beg you, stay.”

[reynesofcastamere]

Surface Breach(1/3)[β]

(A/N: Apologies for the longer-than-usual wait on this one. I went back and forth a LOT on which direction I wanted to take this in. and both the weather and irl things have not been cooperating with my muse. X_X. Anyway, the prompt for this was  ‘Ahsoka completely breaking down and Maul comforting her’. Sequel to ‘Pressure Points’, so set about 2-3 years after ROTS with circumstances being closer to canon. Warnings for: Non-consensual abduction, emotional manipulation, possessive behaviour, intrusive thoughts, violent outbursts, violation of physical autonomy/boundaries, mentions of possible body modification/invasion of privacy, major character death and some internalized shame regarding sex and sexual practices. Once again, potentially triggering sections have been marked off with ‘****’. Unbeta’d.)

Ahsoka...drifts for an uncertain amount of time. She gets vague impressions of eating and performing other necessities as if through a thick haze. There’s a...person who helps her with these things. Someone with warm hands(which are very appreciated, wherever she is, it’s cold) and a low, pleasant voice that she could curl up and listen to for hours. Mostly she sleeps, deep and untroubled by nightmares or immediate concerns. When she comes to, there’s an overwhelming grogginess and a slight chemical tang on her tongue that she only gets from prolonged bacta treatment. Not full tank immersion, but there are a fair amount of patches stuck to her skin under the loose robe she’s currently wearing. Peeling them off carefully, she finds that most of the bruising and other marks that covered her body-like a tribute to poor decisions- are either gone or greatly reduced. And she doesn’t feel...sore in any tender places. Kind of a welcome change. Which now brings up the question of Where the kriff am I and how long have I been here?

Ahsoka catalogues her surroundings: Simple bed, storage unit, two doors presumably leading to a refresher and an outside corridor. It’s very...bare. Easily left behind or packed up. Whoever is staying here doesn’t plan to do so for long. She finds her lightsabres, clothes, and armour in the top drawer, and her boots placed neatly at the foot of the bed. Only when she is nearly finished getting dressed does she take out a long, even strip of black fabric. For a moment, she thinks that there must have been an error of some kind, until the memories of her most recent slip-up rush in like floodwater through a broken dam. There’s a hot, tight feeling in her gut that balances precariously between desire and shame. Maul has an obsessive personality. She knows this. So why am I encouraging this disaster by-Ahsoka can’t even finish the thought. It makes her sick. And so very angry. She’d made the mistake of seeking him out for something other than business, and he had flat-out abducted her. Any number of people or her objectives could be in danger right now. Her fingers fumble slightly on her wrist-comm as she checks it for tampering. Still functional. She’ll have to disassemble her equipment later, to ensure there aren’t any tracking chips or other unwelcome additions. 

He might have embedded something in me while I was under. It rattles her, not remembering, not knowing what Maul could have done, given the opportunity. And he’s close. Even with apprehension curdling in her veins, she can tell that much. Slipping the blindfold into a pocket, she pulls her boots on and pauses for a moment in front of the door. So. Time to find out whether she’s a prisoner or a...’guest’. It opens seamlessly, and she almost gives a sigh of relief. Until she realizes that it leads directly into his office. Ahsoka steps through into a moderate, dimly-lit space. The glow from the screen of the datapad he’s perusing throws Maul’s left side into sharp relief. “Sit.” No need to guess whom he’s addressing, or that he expects to be obeyed. And as there are no other chairs in the room -besides the one he’s currently occupying-, her options are limited. She folds her arms and prepares to stand her ground, only to find herself pulled forward. There is a struggle, though the distance is so short that by the time she breaks out of his Force grip, she’s already right in front of him. Ever the image of arrogance, he sets the ‘pad down, only now raking his gaze over her body. If it’s just to assess the state of her injuries, she might not mind. As much. Except this is Maul, so his motives are guaranteed to be awful at best and downright terrifying at worst. She takes the opportunity to loom over him, gripping the back of his chair with one hand. “You have one chance. Tell me why in the name of a Hutt’s karking diseased brood pouch you thought any of this was a good idea.” The odds are heavily in favour of him lying, or any facts being filtered through his...particular mindset. There is still a possibility that she can glean some scraps of truth from whatever pile of waste product he presents her with, though.

“You were incapacitated, and your stability is, shall we say...currently less than sound.” He answers, lazily resting the curve of his jaw against one set of knuckles as he sprawls. “I acted as I saw fit.” Even when appearing relaxed, Maul is still a coiled serpent. She can never forget that. “Although I am curious...What you might have done had you woken up alone.” “Gone back to work with a few new bruises.” Ahsoka retorts flatly. Which is true, minus some details. It might have at least given her more motivation to stay away from him; knowing with certainty that she is viewed as a plaything for him to use roughly and toss aside on a whim. If only.

“A poor deflection. Nevertheless...” Maul hooks two fingertips under her chin, pulling her oh-so-gradually towards him as he leans in close. The resulting kiss is unexpectedly gentle. She didn’t think he wanted... But he’s-this is-good. Not hurried or violent. She finds herself angling her head to get a bit more contact, tongue peeking out to tentatively flick at his lower lip. He purrs, and she feels...oddly pleased as the physical connection deepens. Their tongues entwine and slide in a tantalizing dance to the point where she hums. Ahsoka is dizzy from either a lack of oxygen or budding arousal when they pull apart, chest heaving slightly as she takes in some much-needed gulps of air.  Still, there has to be a catch.

“Explain why I should allow you to leave, Ahsoka Tano.” Sometimes, she really dislikes being right.

“That’s not something you get to decide.” Ahsoka practically spits in retaliation.

“You ran.” Maul hisses. Like she’d had any other choice. It doesn’t matter if he’s gentle, fucking is just one more way for them to hurt one another. “And avoided direct contact for months only to slink back beaten and exhausted to the point of collapse. I have spent the last four days looking after a husk.” Ahsoka nearly hates the look in his eyes right now. Because he is so very good at pretending to truly care that she almost believes it.“Is martyrdom so much more appealing?” The Dark Side seems to slither over her as he purrs, deceptively pleasant even while it attempts to invade.

**** She sinks into his lap as he tugs her down, thighs parting instinctively under his touch. He fills the space between them with far too much ease.  She refuses to urge him to get this over with, already. Bad enough that she wants anything from him in the first place, that trading pain, degradation and cruelty with a monster gets her off at all. Except that it does. Ahsoka had hoped at first that it was just the physical aspect; That finding someone who could bite and claw at her in the right way would satisfy this...twisted craving in her off-time. There had been satisfaction, and a few personal revelations, yet it wasn’t enough.  “Rex and I buried the men you killed. So many more innocents are dead, dying or suffering under the syndicate.” Any mention of Satine Kryze or Adi Gallia sticks in her throat. She cannot bear to see his pride over those victims while he’s touching her. “You’ll betray everyone and everything for power or revenge.” What good has it done, pushing herself to the absolute brink to fulfill her duties, all but throwing herself into the arms of strangers? She’s still here, on the receiving end of that searing and inescapable gaze. “And you still don’t get why I can’t stand to look at you when you’re-” Finishing the sentence is impossible, both because she cannot bring herself to say the words and suddenly she cannot stand him, his presence, his touch, any of it. 

“I should have just killed you then.” Her shoto is ignited and at his throat in the span of a heartbeat. Maul doesn’t retreat or let go, fingertips pressing bruises into her hips even as he half-bares his teeth in a silent snarl. Taking his head off would be right. The Rebellion needs his resources, not him. Criminals are easily manipulated, and Ahsoka will be free of these urges-The lightsabre is actually burning his skin now. He’s pressing into it, practically inviting-His eyes are-Her mouth is dry. Maul has always been a reminder of who she might have been, and what she might become if she ever loses herself. Everything comes crashing down on her at once, and the next thing she is truly aware of is that her weapon is deactivated and re-holstered, eyes leaking copious amounts of tears. **** He guides her hands to his chest, fingers automatically digging into the material of his vest once he lets go. Her face lowers to rest in the crook between neck and shoulder, breathing stuttered and wracked with quiet sobs while she trembles. Maul doesn’t embrace her. Merely...accommodates her current state of being. The pulse against her lips drops from frantic beats to a measured, steady rhythm. Ahsoka doesn’t want to be like him. Doesn’t want to go further down the path to becoming a desperate, selfish, manic person that would sit back and watch everything burn to ashes. 

Her chest is full of broken transparisteel and every breath hurts. The tears are a deluge that take far too long to dry out, and when they do she wants nothing so much as to sleep again; curled around a warm body for comfort and safety. Obviously she can’t do that for a number of reasons, but it would still be nice to have the option. “Does this-” A light brush along her flank. “-mean I am forgiven?”

“No.”

“Good. What I am, my actions...They do not affect who you are, Ahsoka Tano.”

“It’s not that simple.”

“Is it not? When the Empire falls, you still intend to bring me to whatever ‘justice’-” Maul scoffs. “-Your reborn Republic sees fit to mete out. Our alliance has always been one of convenience. Physical intimacy does not change that.” “What the Republic will do to you is the least of what you deserve.” Ahsoka states with firm conviction, raising her head to make eye contact once more. “And am I really supposed to believe you’re not going to try and twist this to your own benefit?” “No.” He replies simply, though she can see that eerie, devouring light in his eyes beginning to emerge. “You already know what it is I want from you. And it means nothing if you come to me unwilling and utterly broken.”  “Hm. We’ll see how long that stance lasts.” Her response is justifiably skeptical. “I have work to do, so if you could point me in the direction of your hangar...”

“Of course.” Maul lists off directions as well as the model of ship she’ll be ‘borrowing’, her own presumably still hidden where she’d left it. “Close your eyes.” “What are you doing?” “Providing incentive. Return to my side when you are ready.” The pad of his thumb traces her lower lip sensually before he tries to close the remaining distance between their lips, only to have her lean away.

“If you want it that badly, you’ll have to catch me, next time.” She can practically feel the air crackle once the hushed provocation leaves her mouth. If she is to keep succumbing to these desires, it will be on her terms.

“It is not wise to tempt me when you are so close to freedom.” The rasp in his voice and the dilation of his pupils indicate that he is seconds away from pushing her down onto the desk and ravishing her senseless. The thrill of it is enough to make her grind down against him, once.

“Try it. We need to have a talk about boundaries anyway.” Ahsoka smiles, a challenge in her eyes as she loops and ties the blindfold around his left wrist before getting to her feet. “I’ll be in contact.” Maul actually lets her go when she walks away, this time. She feels...better. Not healed or whole, but better than she was. In any case, the work of toppling a tyrannical Empire waits for no one, and she has a lot to catch up on.  (A/N: Ahsoka’s still planning to see a med-droid ASAP, since they haven’t had that discussion yet and it’s been thoroughly established that Maul is Bad With Boundaries. I’m sure that most of you can guess what the second part will involve. [I’m predictable that way, lol.] In any case, I will be trying to get my WIPs out sooner and my inbox is still open to all interested parties. Cheers, everyone!)

[shipmistress9]

HW2020 -- Bonus: Follow Your Heart -2

Okay, so... It was never planned to give this story more than one chapter. And I still stand by my original idea that I want people to imagine their own ending, the one they like best.

However, after talking it through with some friends, this version formed in my head. And it wouldn't go away until I wrote it down. So what you get here now, is one possible ending/sequel. If you don't like it, feel free to ignore it. :)

. o O o .

A harsh gust of wind blew across the sea. It was a cold wind that came from the north, rocking the small ship and ruffling through untidy auburn hair. Hiccup pulled his jacket closer around his neck as it made him shiver. He knew that he could go inside where it was somewhat warmer and sheltered from the wind… But he didn’t want to! He wanted to stay right here, standing at the railing at the ship’s prow and with his eyes cast out toward the island in the distance.

Time was a strange concept. Logically, he knew that it had been ten years since he’d last been here. But with everything that had happened since then, it simultaneously felt as if it had been only weeks and an entire lifetime.

What would await him there? Was his father still ruling the island? Was his grandmother still alive? And, most importantly… Was she still living there?

Hiccup closed his eyes and gulped. He’d already spent endless hours, days, weeks even thinking about these questions. But he wouldn’t get any answers, not until he set foot on his former home island again and sought them out directly.

As Berk came closer, Hiccup’s eyes wandered to that spot on the island he knew best; the shore at the northern coast. Smiling, he remembered all the times he’d stood there, waiting in excitement. He even thought he could see someone standing there right now, waiting like he used to wait. They were still too far away to see more than the vague outline of a figure, but that didn’t keep his mind from filling in details that, certainly, couldn’t be there. Like long golden hair gleaming in the light of the rising sun.

With a sigh, he shook his head. No matter how much he hoped for this, she wasn’t waiting anymore. She couldn't be. Not after ten years. Humourlessly, he laughed at himself. He’d made up countless scenarios in his mind over the last couple of months about how she might react to seeing him.; elated, overwhelmed, or breaking out in tears of joy that he wasn’t dead. But all of these ideas were just wishful thinking. Chances were that she wasn’t even living here anymore, and if she was then surely not because of him. She was beautiful, inside and out, and certainly had caught the eye of someone else by now. Someone who, hopefully, had made her happy.

But that wouldn’t keep him from at least looking for her, if only to let her know he was alive and to apologise. To see her one more time.

Being back on Berk was strange. He felt it the moment his foot touched the once-familiar ground, this weird sense of familiarity and foreignness all at once. He used to know these docks, knew every man working here. But now, the faces around were only vaguely familiar if even that, and instead of greeting him with friendly smiles, they barely even looked at him.

Well, he had changed, he mused. His hair had inevitably grown longer and he hadn’t bothered to cut it often. He had a beard now. And the peg leg, of course. Besides, it wasn’t as if anyone expected to see him. They all had to believe that he died ten years ago.

Mutely, Hiccup walked past them all. He could announce his return; that might even be the fastest way to get information. However, he decided not to. If he didn’t like what he found, if there was no place for him here anymore, then he wouldn’t stay. He didn’t even expect to stay…

Walking through the narrow streets of the town of Berk was just as strange as setting foot on the island had been before. It all looked eerily familiar, the buildings, the streets, the people. But nothing was quite as he remembered. The buildings were mostly the same except for fresh paintings and one that must have been rebuilt completely at some point. There was Gobber’s workshop where he’d bought countless tools and parts in the past, but the sign atop the door was new and the display entirely unfamiliar to him. And there was the innkeeper’s daughter, but she didn’t look the same anymore. Her hair had streaks of grey in it, she’d become a little rounder, and she had a small boy on each of her hands. Without a doubt her sons. Swallowing, Hiccup walked on without saying hello. Life had continued without him, of course, it had. People had moved on.

He was hesitant about where to go exactly. His father’s house would be an obvious choice, but… well, it hadn’t been the memory of his father or even his grandma that had finally made him come here. Made him remember. He took a deep breath and then walked on, out of the town and down a small and barely-used road. He knew where Helka Hofferson’s house was, after all. Maybe it was a far-fetched hope that her niece might still be there, but it was all he had.

The sun rose higher as he walked the short distance, warming his face and the air around him. It would be an unusually bright day for Berk. Hopefully, that was a good omen.

When he reached the small house, he paused. It was well-maintained with a garden and flowers in the windows. That was a good sign, meant that there was still someone living here. At least, he could hope for information. And it also looked different from what he remembered, younger in a way. The thought made his heart skip a beat, but he fought down the growing excitement. That didn’t have to mean that she was living here. It could be just anyone, moving here after Helka had given the house up for whatever reason.

Slowly and with shaking knees, he stepped up to the entrance door, almost tripping as his prosthetic caught on a stone. Gods, he couldn’t remember ever having been this nervous! What if a complete stranger opened the door? What if it was her, but arm in arm with her husband? Did he really want to have that image in his mind? Did he want it to replace the last memory he had of her, the one of her waving at him at the docks, with such an image?

Trembling, he leaned his forehead against the wooden door. He knew what he wanted, what he hoped for. A second chance with the woman who’d captured his heart and soul within merely a few hours. He longed for it, desperately, and he had no idea what to do with his life if that moment, that decision to leave with the Night Fury, really had ruined his one and only chance. He didn’t want his hopes to be shattered.

But not knocking and leaving now without a word made no sense. He’d come all the way to get answers – to this island and this house. Now, he just had to seize them. And maybe she wasn’t even here. Maybe someone else would open the door; a stranger. Maybe all he would learn today was that she’d moved away long ago.

Maybe his hopes and dreams wouldn’t get crushed in a minute.

He knocked.

Nothing.

Hiccup huffed. Okay, no crushed hopes yet… But what now? Should he wait here until whoever lived here came back? If it indeed was some stranger, then he would look like a creep. He’d look like one anyway... Maybe he should go to his father’s house first, after all. And come back here later. Or maybe not, depending on what his father might tell him. Sighing in resignation, he turned to leave when he heard the noises.

Footsteps.

A high voice calling something, female but unfamiliar.

A door falling close.

The noises came from behind the house where an ample garden used to be, as far as he remembered. Maybe there, he would find whoever lived here now.

Without giving himself more time to doubt or talk himself out of this, he walked around the building. “Hello?” he called to announce himself, but nobody answered him. Strange. He walked on, looking around but couldn’t see anybody. Although, no, that wasn’t entirely true. On this side of the house, a large window was set into the wall. And even though the reflecting sunlight made it hard to look inside, Hiccup could still make out movement behind the glass, a person moving about. And he could swear they had long golden-blond hair.

Don’t be silly, he chided himself, even as his heartbeat quickened. He didn’t dare to believe it could really be her, that he might actually see her again after all this time.

Without his help, his legs moved to the backdoor set near the window. He lifted his hand to knock, his head dizzy with too many emotions, and a lump formed in his throat as his knuckles rapped against the wood.

“Come in, honey. The door is open.

The response nearly caused his knees to give way beneath him. That voice! It was her voice, without any doubt or room for errors. He recognised it, the tone etched forever into his mind.

But… Honey?

With shaking hands, he opened the door and saw her.

She stood at a kitchen counter, her hands buried in soapy water as she washed the dishes. She didn’t even look up as he entered and just hummed under her breath to herself.

Rendered speechless and immobile, he could do nothing but stare at her. She hadn’t changed much; her curves were a little rounder than he remembered, softer, and her hair a shade or two paler. But she looked just as beautiful as he remembered, a serene smile on her lips and that inner glow still radiating from her like in that night in the tavern room.

“Astrid?”

Her name came out as nothing but a whisper, a weak gasp, trembling.

She paused in her movements, soapy water dripping off her hands. Then she turned toward him, surprise and confusion on her face – though not as much as he would have expected. She took a moment or three to silently look him over, her head cocked in thought before her lips twitched into a slight smile.

“Well, hello there. Didn’t expect to see you here.”

She spoke in a light tone, untroubled. It threw Hiccup off completely. This was her only reaction? Had she cared so little for him that his absence or return didn’t faze her at all? Not that he’d wanted her to hurt over his disappearance, but… but…

Bewildered, he just stood still and waited as she took in his appearance more closely.

“Huh. I didn’t expect a new look,” she said with a strange smile. “Appropriate though, I guess. Although, it makes sense after ten years, doesn’t it? You look…. older.  I like the beard. And you’ve gained some muscles, haven’t you?” Her smile became a little sad. “But your leg… You probably lost it when the ship sank?” She paused, eyes on his prosthetic,  “That looks oddly complicated. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like this.” She took a minute longer to look at him, then chuckled, shook her head, and turned back to washing the dishes.

Stunned, Hiccup gaped at her. He’d wondered about how she might react, but this was not what he’d expected. She… she had to know that he’d gone missing, right? She had to have noticed that he hadn’t come back. Or hadn’t she waited for him at all, not even a few weeks? Had the connection between them that one night and all his feelings been nothing but his imagination?

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. The only sounds he could hear were the clinking of the tableware and the thundering of his own heart. He’d come for nothing. He’d found her as he’d hoped he would. But he hadn’t made this journey just to see her, no matter what he’d told himself earlier. His heart and soul longed for more – but she didn’t care.

He shouldn’t have come in the first place...

He was just about to excuse himself and leave when something in her posture changed. Her grip on the plate in one hand and the brush in the other tightened, and she leaned forward, propping her weight up on her arms.

“Gods, I’m such a mess,” she whispered.

Hiccup cocked his head. He wasn’t sure whether she was still talking to him, even though there was nobody else around. Even when her eyes turned back to him, shimmering with unshed tears, it seemed as if she wasn’t really seeing him at all.

“Ten years…” she murmured, still as if just talking to herself. “Ten years, and I’m still not over you. You’d think I was stronger than that. But now, I see you even here, and… and I don’t even want you to go away. I should, but… but…” She broke off, choking on tears and more running freely down her cheeks.

And Hiccup understood. She wasn’t indifferent toward him. She’d missed him just as much as he’d missed her, enough so that… that she’d imagined seeing him? Frequently enough so that his appearance didn’t even surprise her?

He gulped. He could see it now, the soul-deep pain in her eyes. It made his heart break all over for her. Yes, the thought of her being indifferent had hurt. But her pain right now hurt so much more. Even as he stood right here, she didn’t believe it to be true…

“I don’t want you to go,” she eventually continued. Her voice was a little clearer now but still weak and quivering, brittle. As if she was about to break into a million pieces. “I want you to stay here. And I don’t care if people call me crazy, I just…” She shook her head, her eyes closed, then let it drop as she turned away from him again, her shoulders slumping.

“Gods, I wish you were truly here,” she sobbed. “I wish you were real!”

Her pain didn’t leave him unaffected, his face crumpling. He wanted to reassure her, but if she believed him to be nothing but a vision then just him saying so wouldn’t convince her. Hesitantly, he made a few steps toward her. She didn’t turn even as she must have heard his feet on the wooden floor and the rustling of his clothes, must have felt him coming closer. She didn’t react and only kept sobbing quietly, even as he stood just inches behind her.

Moving on their own accord, his hands landed on her hips and he leaned a little closer until his chest was almost against her back. Beneath his hands, she stiffened.

“I am real!” he murmured into her ear. Just these three words. Trembling, overwhelmed by emotions, he waited for her reaction.

There was a loud Clang! as the plate landed on the ground slipping from numb fingers. Keening, she leaned back against him. Her knees buckled and left her weight almost entirely on his arms for a moment, and even though he was still shaking, he held on to her as tightly as he could.

Then, before Hiccup could even react, she turned around and kissed him. It was a hard kiss, bruising. Her hands were in his hair in an instant, clinging to him and tugging almost painfully as she gasped against his mouth. But he didn’t have it in him to pull away. His arms held her as tightly as possible and his heart flowed over with joy, the fulfilment of ten years of anticipation.

Eventually, the kiss changed into something softer, her lips searching reassurance while her hands tried to connect his new appearance with the man she’d known before. He knew that’s what she did because he did the same; caressing her arms, her back and sides, feeling her hair, her softness, and strong muscles beneath her skin. Sweet reconnecting and curious exploring. He knew that he wasn’t the same man he’d been ten years ago anymore, and the same certainly was true for her, too. But during those minutes which felt like lifetime’s worth of bonding, that didn’t matter. They were together again, and that was all that counted.

“You’re really here,” she gasped against his lips after what felt like a small eternity. “You’re alive!”

Gulping, Hiccup nodded. “I am.”

She pulled back a little, her eyes searching his. They were just as beautiful as he remembered, deep like the sea yet warm and gentle like a summer breeze. He could lose himself in her eyes alone, and he didn’t even notice her frown. Not until she spoke again.

“But… but how is that possible? The ship… everyone knew you were dead. And where have you been? What happened?”

He sighed. “That’s a long story,”

“And I have all the time in the world,” she replied, chuckling. “Hiccup, I–”

An unexpected voice interrupted her. “I found something! Are you–”

Hiccup flinched. His head whipped around to where a young girl was staring at them, and he reflexively made a step away from Astrid; their closeness was not quite suitable for the eyes of a child. Astrid wouldn’t have it, though, held on to him as if to never let him go again. He liked that thought.

“Am I what?” Astrid asked, her mind clicking back to reality much faster than his. “What did you find, honey?”

Oh, so she’s who she’d meant before, Hiccup realised. Forcing his racing heart to calm down, he looked the girl over more closely. She seemed to be around ten years old and something about her face seemed oddly familiar. Had he met her before? But no, she would have been nothing but a baby back then.

The girl blinked, confused, but her eyes never left him, scrutinising him just as closely and her mind visibly working through options. “I… I found this mechanism in the book you…” she uttered, but then shook her head as if to clear it. “Did you say Hiccup? Mum, is… is that who I think he is?”

Mum?

Giggling like a little girl, Astrid nodded. “Yes, Zephyr. Yes, he is.”

Hiccup slumped, inwardly distancing himself from the woman in his arms. Of course… The girl’s face looked familiar because she looked like Astrid. She was her daughter! And whoever the girl’s father was, he wouldn’t be happy that a stranger had invaded his home and had kissed his wife.

The girl gaped at him with wide eyes, probably thinking the same as he did, but Hiccup couldn’t pay her much attention right now. His trembling hands once again settled on Astrid’s waist, but this time it was to push her away.

“She… is your daughter?” he asked, unnecessarily. By the Gods, he’d come in the hopes to continue where their lives had been separated ten years ago. But he wouldn’t stay to destroy her marriage, wouldn’t–

Astrid shook her head at his question. Her eyes bore into his, just as intense as he remembered, the softness of her smile spreading over her entire face. “No,” she breathed. “Zephyr isn’t my daughter.” She reached for his hands, placed them over her stomach, and laid hers over his. “She’s our daughter!”

Hiccup blinked. His mind took a moment to register what she’d said. Then his jaw dropped and his eyes widened as they flickered back and forth between Astrid and the girl. “Our...? But… but how… what…” Of course, he knew how and remembered every detail of that night. But it was too much to accept at that moment, too much to wrap his head around. That girl… sh-she was… was his daughter?

With a soft sigh, Astrid leaned against his chest. “That’s… a long story.

. o O o .

This was only the first part of the sequel. There's also a second part which is already written out completely. I just need to edit it a bit and will upload it in a day or two.

* - . - * - . o O o . - * - . - *

If you want to support me you can buy me a coffee. I love coffee 😊 (Ko-Fi)

[razorblade180]

Twin Snowflakes Pt13:A Guest part2

Today has been a long day for Summer. School, people, robots, and now an unexpected guest on the first floor who was probably still watching her get owned in stunning high definition. ‘Stupid Veronica. Why can’t you mind your own business for once? I’d be talking out loud if your hearing wasn’t so sharp.’

Summer ran her shower extra hot and waited for the bathroom to steam. Before she would jump in. Summer walked over to the mirror and gently rubbed her makeup off, frowning at the scar right under her chin. It was faded but the sight still upset her. To think today would have added more if not Shiva was unsettling to say the least.

“What’s your angle? You never do anything without a reason.” Summer mumbled quietly to herself as she stared at the sink faucets. If she wanted answers then now was probably the safest time. Summer turned the cold water on and ran her head under it. The cold sensation running across her scalp before she looked back in the mirror to see her reflection smirking at her.

Shiva:Hey there loser. You know I’m starting to think you actually like seeing me. We never talk this much. Willingly anyways. Steaming the room, bravo.

Summer:You know why we’re talking.

Shiva:Of course, I’m in your head. Not that anyone would need it to figure out your simple little thoughts. It’s almost as sad as you not knowing the answer automa-

Summer:I’m three seconds away from just jumping into that hot water. Get on with it.

Shiva:Touchy. Someone needs a nap. The reason I intervened was because you would be no good to me crippled. See? Simple. Can’t move a broken body.

Summer:....

Shiva:What? Expecting more? Honestly you should be thankful, or at least counting your lucky stars. For once, being afraid and helpless saved your life. You let your guard down; fear and adrenaline might be your undoing before the actual cold.

Summer:Don’t get any ideas.

Shiva:Why would I waste time planning when you’re bound to screw up. Fear, cold, sleep, even immense mental fatigue. I’ll just chip away at all of these different avenues that lead to your eventual demise. I’ll give credit where it’s due. You’ve learned a few tricks around the cold through trial and error. It’s not enough though.

Summer:I’ll get stronger.

Shiva:No you won’t. Not as fast you need to be. I mean just look at today. Can you imagine the look on dear Nicholas’s face if he had woken up to see you in a hospital bed? Comatose again just like before. That pain of realizing he put his sweet baby sister in danger again. Hmm, maybe I should’ve let you gotten h-

Summer had enough and went right into the shower; clothes and all. The heat brought relief as well did her oncoming tears as she curled up and wept. Today has been a long day.

xxxx

The day was dragging on a bit for Veronica as well. The girl sat at a dinner table with her Yang, Jaune, and Weiss. Nick walked in a few minutes later wearing gray sweatpants and a blue tank top. Veronica couldn’t help but noticed he seemed a bit more toned than before. Combat school is serving him well.

Weiss:Where’s your sister?

Nick:Still showering. I wouldn’t be surprised if she went straight to bed.

Jaune:Aww she likes pasta.

Veronica:Gotta admit, it’s still weird seeing you in comfy clothes.

Nick:Do I look like a fashion disaster?

Veronica:Please, knowing this place you’d probably be trendsetting. Speaking of which, did you happen to check your closet?

Nick:I saw a suit bag hanging there but I didn’t open it.

Yang:Not a curious bone in your body huh?

Nick:Not true. I knew someone probably wanted to talk about her work.

Veronica:Indeed I do. *clears throat* Ahem, in that suit bag is what might be my finest work. I rewatched old tournament footage and made an outfit for you that’s guaranteed to help you in this one.

Nick:Really?

Veronica:Yep! It was pretty simple really.

Yang:She spent weeks working day and night. Poor girl nearly passed out when she finished.

Veronica:*red* Don’t tell him that!

Yang:What? You put a ton of effort in to help. Nothing wrong with that.

Nick:She’s right. Thank you Vee.

Veronica:Well...thank me after you try it on. Adjustments might need to happen. My measurements could be a little off.

Weiss:Did you happen to make one for Summer? There is a duo leader board you know?

Veronica:Sigh, yes I made her one as well. I’m not that petty. Though making something for her was far more irritating. I actually need her to try it on and see if it’ll hold up well with whatever thermals she might wear. Last thing you need is an overheated teammate or the clothes getting deformed.

Nick:Wait, is that why-

Veronica:Recent footage is always the most beneficial when designing something for any individual.

Nick:(You could’ve told her that. Even I thought you were watching her get hit for no reason.)

Veronica:Let me guess, thought I was goofing off earlier?

Nick:Somewhat…

Veronica:Heh, I suppose I made that reputation for myself.

Summer walked into the room moments later, wearing a black compression shirt and regular pajama pants with snowflakes on it. Everyone was glad to see her. Well, mostly everyone. Veronica was busy examining the slight redness under her eyes.

Yang:Hey Tiny Weiss.

Summer:We’re like the same size. I might be taller.

Weiss:Don’t remind me.

Nick:Guess what? Veronica made us outfits to help bring out our full potential!

Veronica:Not my exact words but more or less so.

Summer:....How much does it cost?

Veronica:What?

Summer:Nothing, I just can’t imagine a world where you did something for free in regards to me.

Jaune:Hey…

Veronica:You can talk to me as little as possible. That would be priceless.

Yang:Hey!

Veronica:She started it.

Weiss:Both of you behave. I enjoy getting to the point in my life where dinners are calm. Let me keep that please?

“Yes ma’am.” They said in unison, which only annoyed them. Summer was too tired bickering anyways. She wasn’t sure why she tried starting an argument. A thank you might’ve been in order. But she chose to stay quiet about the subject.

Yang:So you two think you’re ready?

Nick:I’m actually a bit nervous about the whole thing.

Summer:Not only are we fighting but now we’re performing as well.

Jaune:That’s news to us.

Weiss:Yeah what spurred this idea on?

Summer:I met this little girl the other day. She’s an orphan named Ruth and lives down in Mantle. I promised her I’d help raise money to make it a nice place so uncle Whitley will help me set up a fundraiser. Between that and Nick begging me to perform I thought the tournament would be a good way to advertise or maybe get some donations right there.

Nick:Sadly her terms of agreement involved me singing as well.

Veronica’s eyes lit up like a christmas tree. Did she hear that right?

Veronica:You are singing together at the tournament and didn’t tell me!? Why?!!!

Nick:It….just….sort of-

Veronica:Now everything has to go perfectly! Presentation, lighting, the seating, what song are you singing?

Summer:That’s uh, to be determined. It’ll be good though. Depending on the song we might be able to do multiple.

Veronica:I can’t believe this. A concert...

Jaune:Is that sparking an idea?

Veronica:Is it!? I expected tons of people to show up but now it’s a guarantee. There’s no way fiery inspiration won’t strike! Oh, the crowd should do the lighter thing. You know, where they wave it!?

Weiss:Yang, what exactly is your daughter pumped about?

Yang:She’s hoping while she’s here that she will find inspiration to create a dress that deals with fire. Warm colors, that sort of thing.

….

Jaune:Can’t you just-

Yang:Apparently I’m not inspiring!

Veronica:Oh don’t pout about it. I’m sure you’ll inspire me another day. We should check out the venue tomorrow morning and-

Nick:Woah, aren’t you forgetting something? Unlike you, we have school.

Veronica:Ugh, school. The worst place in any city.

Summer:Funny, you look like the type to revel in the environment.

Veronica:Dealing with fake people and idiots is never fun. I’d rather be in a jail cell. At least those people have interesting stories.

Summer:(Well she isn’t exactly wrong about that.)

Nick:Looks like you and Summer have something in common after all. A loathing of chalk and blackboards. Getting Summer to attend class is a struggle.

Yang:Veronica is the same way. Especially since she can phase through things.

Summer and Veronica:We’re right here you know?

Nick:We know. I couldn’t imagine teachers dealing with you both at once. I don’t think even I can manage honestly.

Yang:Oh I’m sure you can handle it. After all, Veronica is going to be there tomorrow.

….

Nothing was said. Nick blinked twice while what he just heard started turning gears in his head. He looked at Summer who was also processing. No way they heard the same thing right? Then he turned to Veronica who had been staring at her Mother like she had just spoken a different language. This was bad. They all heard the same thing didn’t they?

Veronica:I’m sorry ma, both pairs of ears must be clogged. For a second I could’ve sworn you said-

Yang:You’ll be going to their school tomorrow. Already filled out the guest forum.

Veronica:WHY!?

Yang:You can’t stay in the mansion all day and I don’t like the idea of you roaming around the kingdom. This place isn’t like home. Since you’re helping out for the tournament it’s a good idea to do most of the work where you can get resources and ask questions. It isn’t like you’re actually taking classes.

Veronica couldn’t believe what she was hearing. No one informed her of this. Had this been the plan all along? It had to be. Her body tensed up and her jaw clenched. This was going to be exactly like home. Veronica stood up as calmly as she could manage and proceeded to walk away.

Veronica:Excuse me. I’m going to lay down.

Yang wanted to say something but the girl took the fastest way possible out of the room; right through the floor.

Yang:Verona- and she’s gone. Guess that one is on me. Maybe I should’ve told her on the boat instead of springing it on her.

Nick:Want me to talk to her?

Yang:I appreciate it but when she’s like this it’s best to let her simmer down. There is something I would like for you to do though; both of you actually. Can you please stick by her? Veronica’s hardheaded, and quick to anger. I couldn’t tell you if it’s because of the way her traits manifested, or if it’s the fact she’s a lot like me. Maybe a bit of both. Either way, she’s a good kid behind that exterior. Keep her line please?

Nick:No problem. I probably would’ve done that anyways. We’ll keep an eye out, right Summer?

Summer:Yeah I’m gonna hard pass on that.

Weiss:Now I know you two aren’t exactly… compatible, but I think you should at the very least make sure nothing terrible happens to her.

Summer:What could happen? It’s school.

Yang:Honestly I’m more concerned about other people’s safety. I teach her boxing. Not to brag but I’m a good teacher.

Jaune:Oh boy, Summer it would be bad to not prevent that.

Summer:How would I even? *mumbles* I can’t even beat her.

Nick:...Oh! Let’s compromise! You don’t have to help her. But if I ask for help and it happens to be about her…

Summer:What stunt are you trying to pull?

Nick:You know me, I’m not going to abuse the power.

Weiss:I’ve seen your credit card receipts.

Nick:Financial power is meant to be expressed once in a while. This is different. I have way more restraint and consideration!

Weiss and Jaune:(He just admitted he sucks at conversing money...)

Nick:So what do I say, my dear sister that loves supporting me?

Summer:Uggghhh, fine. But only three times a day max.

Nick:Deal! Let’s start right now!

Summer:What? But we aren’t-

Nick:Veronica is going to need a uniform tomorrow. Seeing how you skipped a day that means you should have a spare this week right? We’ll get uniforms for her by the end of tomorrow.

Summer:Fine. That’s not so tough.

Nick watched Summer get up from the table and leave. No doubt to get things over with. He decided to get up and call the day early.

Nick:I’m going to shower then call it day. Nice seeing Yang. I’m guessing I’ll see you tomorrow?

Yang:You know we’re staying here right? I’ll see you bright and early.

Nick:….What?

xxxx

Knock Knock Knock

Summer:You in there Veronica? (She didn’t say what spare room she’d be in. Geez, we have too many rooms to search one by one) V-

Veronica:I’m in your room Einstein.

Summer:WHAT!? Why are-

The answer hit Summer like a freight train. Summer quickly sprinted towards her room and ran right in to find Veronica holding a school uniform. It was just as Summer feared.

Summer:Gee, that really is some hearing you got. It must be really hard not to snoop.

Veronica:Only when I know someone is bad mouthing me.And you’re right, I don’t need someone like you watching over me. Not that it’ll do me any good.

Summer:(I deserve that one.) I’m sor-

Veronica:Why is this your uniform?

Summer:What? It’s just the standard made uni-

Veronica:I know that. But why is it yours?

Raising it upwards, Veronica aimed the garb against Summer’s frame. The skirt covered most of her shins, the shirt might as well have been drabs on her, and the entire thing must’ve looked like the outfit was eating her.

Veronica:Our body types aren’t the same yet even these clothes would be way too big for me. You have to be swimming in all this excessive fabric. It should be uncomfortable and a waste.

Summer:It’s not that baggy. Besides I think it’s pretty comfortable.

Veronica:A Schnee should care about their appearance. More so than even someone like me.

Summer:I really don’t need a lecture right now. Just take it and go.

Veronica:I can’t wear this tomorrow. You may not care about the way you look but my look. Maybe if I just tuck the skirt in a few inches with thread…

Summer:Don’t make modifications to my clothes!

Veronica:They are only temporary.

Summer:Makes no difference. Just wear it as is.

Veronica:Mmmm hah.

Summer:Ugh! Why are you so- what’s your problem!?

Veronica:My problem? I’m not the one going to school in bed sheets. Honestly, who willingly does something like this?

Summer: I-

Veronica:What, can’t be bothered to-

Summer:I HATE MY SCARS!

The outburst was unexpected; even for Summer who had no intention of getting hostile. Veronica was just a person she couldn’t stand to look small around. Summer was ready for another argument to begin but no words came flying her way.

Instead, Summer saw Veronica wince in pain as if she had pricked her finger. The faunus flashed a glare of irritation that made Summer consider leaving. ‘What’s gotten into-‘ her internal question was cut off by Noticing Veronica’s cat ears. She had folded them down and was currently rubbing them gently. ‘Did I really scream that loud?’ Years of singing did mean Summer knew how to hit a high note fast. Perhaps she had gotten swept up in her emotions and shouted louder than she thought. Summer slowly opened up her mouth and gave a slight pause before gently speaking.

Summer:Are you okay?

Veronica:If you’re going to yell then at least gradually get louder. Screaming out of nowhere like that, you’re definitely a singer alright.

Summer:I wouldn’t be screaming if you weren’t so….extra all the time.

Veronica:Says the girl who just hit a high note like it’s a normal thing. Extra is what you’re really. I’m surprised you’re not breaking some dress code; pulled some strings no doubt.

Summer:*red* You don’t know me.

Veronica:Sadly, I do.

That stung a bit. Summer looked at the floor. Her spirit was reaching another low point for today. “Jerk…” Summer mumbled. Veronica watched the girl slowly start to retreat into herself. Almost like if she was a turtle going into its shell. The sight was a bit depressing. ‘Damnit, I gave my word to Nick but it’s not like it was just going to make things change.”

Veronica reached out to Summer’s chin and tilted the girl’s head up until they were staring at each other. Summer tried to look tough and stern but the way her eyes shifted ever so slightly gave away the tears she was trying to fight back. Veronica gave a look that was more than a bit unimpressed. “Quick to scream and quick to cry. You’re a little spoiled little princess, you know that?”

“You’re one to talk. Always ready to fight and walking around like you own the place. You’re just as spoiled as I am.” Summer said while trying to keep a hushed toned.

“I’ll give ya that one.” Veronica looked Summer up and down multiple times before letting go. She walked over to closet where all of Summer’s uniforms were and took them; even the one she wore today.

Summer:What are-

Veronica:Voice…

Summer:What are you doing with my stuff?

Veronica:Something you should’ve thought of. You’ll get these back before school tomorrow. I’ll be two rooms down the hall.

Without allowing further questions, Veronica left; closing the door with her tail. Summer wanted to press the issue but knew it would be hopeless. It was going to be a long day tomorrow though if she woke up to miniskirts. Hopefully Veronica wasn’t that cruel. There were a lot of pitfalls Summer would say Veronica had but she couldn’t think of a single time the blonde had actually insulted her body or looks for that matter. Maybe it would’ve been too easy of a thing to go after. Veronica was gorgeous after all in both departments; gaining a majority of her looks equally from both parents. Including assets, which made Summer fairly jealous. Combine that with her taste in fashion and it was impossible to find a time Veronica didn’t look awe inspiring. No wonder she acts like she can own anything.

‘I’d be confident too I guess if I looked like that.’ Summer thought as she finally laid down on her bed and let sleep take her.

xxxx

Jaune:Veronica’s gotten taller since last time she was over. I think her and Nick are the same height now.

Yang:I’m surprised she’s growing at all with that lame diet I keep trying to knock her off of. It takes a month's worth of nagging just to get her to eat a hamburger sometimes. Suppressing those instincts of hers constantly like that does way more harm than good. I wish she could understand that. Eventually she’ll just get cranky and be more aggressive than usual.

Weiss:Surly there’s a balance?

Yang:Yeah, it’s called living normally and having restraint. I mean I was hotheaded for sure but I mellowed out around this time right?

Jaune:No…

Weiss:Didn’t you destroy a nightclub? Wait, you did that right before Beacon. You were older than what Veronica was now; hell no you weren’t mellow! People got hurt the moment they touched your hair.

Yang:People shouldn’t touch other people without permission. Plain and simple.

Jaune:How’s school over there for her? Has it gotten better?

Yang:Less fights for sure. Practically zero now that I’m thinking about it. Boxing really helped with that but I can tell she still isn’t happy. Can’t really tell you what goes through her head daily or how she feels. Blake’s typically the only one to get her to open up but even that’s not much these days. No doubt she still can’t stand a majority of people in school.

Weiss:Still hasn’t made friends.

Yang:Nope...kids are cruel.

Weiss:They don’t starry that way. It’s learned behind closed doors. I know that better than most. Hate to say it but not much will be different here. Even Summer has problems with people in school. Albeit, for different reasons.

Yang:Blake and I just want Veronica to get some distance from home and school. Let her be around a couple more people besides us and her grandparents that love her to bits. You two, the twins, Ruby, Oscar-

Jaune:Does that really count?

Yang:Nick certainly lightens her up. He’s a real charmer. In a few years team RWBY might actually be sharing every part of the family tree. Wouldn’t that be pretty cool Weiss? Think of the fun family reunions.

Weiss:Are you forgetting your sister is married to my brother, genius? We are already connected.

Yang:Yeah but this way would be cuter.

Jaune:I’m telling Ruby you said that.

Yang:Please don’t.

Weiss:I’m hoping one day Nick’s feelings for Valerie are reached. He tries so hard.

Jaune:I think he should phone it in. Poor guy isn’t getting far.

Weiss:You never gave up on me.

Jaune:I know but I sort of took a break and focused on me and tried not to die while saving the world. Honestly I’m still surprised you found your way into my arms.

Weiss:I’m not. They loved me and let me know I was safe with you. It was only a matter of time before I found my way to them.

Yang:Ugh, get a room you lovebirds.

Weiss:This is our house!

Jaune:Also you act like you and Blake haven’t flirted in front of people or with us.

Yang:Jaune the four of us did more than flirt. Speaking of….

Weiss:No.

Yang:Not even when Blake gets here *winks*

Weiss:*red* We are grownups with children. Children with very good hearing and know when something is up.

Yang:Hmm, we’ll revisit this conversation later. So, Summer isn’t holding up at school either.

Weiss:Sigh...not really, no. She’s grown rather distant from us lately. Even Nick feels like she’s been building walls. Just the other day Winter caught her grinding on the chains to Mantle with her snowboard.

Yang:That sounds awesome!

Weiss:....

Yang:*sweats* But completely dangerous and not safe in the slightest.

Jaune:Oscar says her therapy sessions have been pretty slow the past few months in terms of progress but that’s all he’ll really tell us for now. Penny’s check ups show physically that she’s normal. Well, for the state she’s in.

Yang:No Shiva outbursts or. Confrontations lately.

Weiss:Not that we know of. It’s frustrating really. All this money and power to get the best resources to learn about diamond dust but none of it is getting us closer to learning anything substantial. Maybe if we can find a bit more or something. Then I could help my daughter through this.

Jaune reached across the table and held her hand gently.

Jaune:We’ve gotten this far. Summer has gotten this far; I got a feeling that we can handle anything at this point. One step at a time right?

Weiss:*smiles* One step at a time.

Yang:Don’t forget, you haven’t used all your resources. Whatever hurdle pops up I’ll be one call away from helping you over it. Spare no expense. You have more than enough people on your contact list willing to lend a hand. Don’t let them go to waste; sometimes you gotta ring every last one of them!

Weiss:Hmph, pretty bold to speak for everyone like that. I hope you’ll take the flack if they disagree.

Yang:Then they can call me personally!

xxxx

Veronica:Okay…

She looked at Summer’s uniforms that she put on some manicans. Veronica reached down in her bag and pulled out a sewing kit. She pulled out a needle and twirled it in between her fingers while pulling out spools of thread and juggling them with her tail. Her free hand tied her hair into a bun.

Veronica:Five outfits, I’m tired, headache, still need to unpack, still have sea legs, Summer gave me a headache, and I have to go to an Atlas school of all places tomorrow. Oh, not to mention what time it is now and when I gotta wake up. *smiles* better get to it then.

Part 12

[inu-jiru]

The Tiger and The Zebra

Chapter One - The Voyage Begins

“What the…?” I heard a gruff voice ask as we, assumably, arrived at the docking bay. The sphere melted away, revealing a Jasper and a Peridot. Both stared at White Diamond’s Pearl and I, clearly confused as to why we were here. I couldn’t say I blamed them. The Peridot’s eyes widened, a bead of sweat rolling down the side of her face as she muttered,

“Oh my stars...Gems from White Diamond’s court…!?”

“I know who they are,” the Jasper shot back, though her tone was a bit softer than before. The two Gems stood up straight and held up their arms (or limb enhancers, in the Peridot’s cause) in the Diamond Salute. The Pearl didn’t respond, instead leaving, once again, in her sphere. How did she know where she was going, I couldn’t help but wonder…

“Um…” the Peridot began, looking between me and her escort. “Can we help you, ma’am…?”

“Zebra Agate, Facet-1G7B, Cut-7XW,” I introduced myself with no real emotion. “Her Clarity, White Diamond, has given me orders to supervise your mission to Earth.”

“What?” the Peridot replied, cocking a brow. The Jasper, meanwhile, was only watching me. I couldn’t quite make out her expression. The Peridot’s “fingers” morphed into a small screen, one of them scrolling through some notes. “No one told me anything about this.”

“I only received my orders a few minutes ago,” I admitted. “And I was brought here immediately after to inform you personally. I understand this might be a bit of an inconvenience for you, but--”

“No, no,” said the Peridot quickly. “It’s just….unexpected, that’s all.”

“If there’s no more surprise passengers,” the Jasper had finally spoken up. “Should we get going?” The Peridot huffed, rolling her eyes.

Testy...I couldn’t help thinking. Both of them. But nothing I can’t handle.

The Peridot responded by fiddling with her screen again. One of the fingers of the hand-shaped ship lowered, and I found myself being engulfed in another sphere. This seemed to be a theme I was running into today…

“Well…” started the Peridot. “To fill you in, Zebra Agate, we’re on a mission to check on the progress of the Cluster, as well as find out who’s been destroying my Robonoids.” That last part caused me to perk in interest. White Diamond hadn’t mentioned that. I felt a slight burning in my cheeks as the embarrassment of questioning the Matriarch’s clarity plagued me. The Peridot continued. “That’s the reason I requested Jasper’s escort.”

“I still think asking me to come was a waste of time,” interrupted the Jasper drily, to which the Peridot responded with a roll of her eyes. “It was probably one of those miserable organics messing around with your little toys.”

“They’re not toys,” the green gem turned to face the much larger Quartz soldier, glaring at her directly in the eyes. My eyes widened. The Peridot was surprisingly vocal for a Gem on the lower part of the social ladder. Then again, Peridots weren’t my area of expertise.

“Whatever,” the Jasper scoffed, smirking as the Peridot let out a slight growl of frustration. Instinctively, I cleared my throat. It was time to do my job.

“Alright, alright,” I began, putting on a calm, yet firm voice. “There’s no need to argue. The sooner we get to Earth, the sooner we can go back to our old duties, yes?”

“Mmph…” both Gems grunted, though neither said anything further. At least they knew not to talk back to me. The transporting sphere fell away once we were inside of the ship’s interior. I grimaced, being surrounded on all sides by bright yellow and green. It was things like this that made me appreciate the greys and blacks often used in White Diamond’s court.

“We’ll be departing momentarily,” informed the Peridot as she began to walk away. “Make yourselves comfortable.”

As the green gem’s footsteps gradually faded away, I stole a glance at the Jasper escort. Now that I actually had a moment to look at her, I began to realize that I recognized her. This wasn’t just any Jasper; this was the Jasper created in Earth’s Beta Kindergarten, a Gem who’d go on to be one of Homeworld’s greatest fighters. Is this what Yellow Diamond was having her do now? Gemsitting Peridots? How sad.

...Wait.

The warrior Gem turned then, catching my gaze. They were yellow...no...gold. They weren’t as obnoxiously bright as the yellow on the walls, rather a deep and, admittedly, quite striking color. Had I not known her origins as an Earth-made Jasper, I would’ve easily believed that she had been made for Yellow Diamond. Their personalities were already similar enough. She stared at me for a few seconds before closing her eyes and resting her arms behind her head.

“Ugh,” she grunted. “Guess I’ll head to the training room, then. If that’s alright with you, I mean?”

“Oh, it’s fine,” I assured with a slight chuckle. “I might be supervising, but you don’t need my okay for everything. This is mostly the Peridot’s mission, isn’t it?”

“That’s what I thought until you showed up. No disrespect, but I can’t imagine White Diamond sending one of her Agates for something this simple.”

“Well…” I began walking forward along the corridor. Jasper did the same, matching my pace. “I suppose you’ve got me there. I do have my own assignment, one that...actually might interest you, now that I think about it.”

“Oh?” Jasper lifted a brow suspiciously.

“Rose Quartz may still be on Earth.”

Jasper stopped. I turned to face her and saw a look of intrigue on her face. Her lips curled back into a wide and incredibly toothy smirk. I fought back a smile. My suspicions were correct, then.

“Funny you should mention her,” said Jasper. “We have someone on-board who might’ve run into her recently.” Despite my lack of a heart, I could feel a fluttering in my chest. I couldn’t believe it; there really was a chance that the traitor was still alive.

“A Lapis Lazuli showed up not long ago, saying her gem was cracked and that she was being held prisoner by Crystal Gems,” she continued. “She’s locked up in the holding cells for interrogation. If Rose is involved in this, then maybe this is my chance to finally give her the beating she deserves, heh.”

I couldn’t hold it back anymore. I began to grin, letting out one of those amused exhales. Not even the Ultimate Quartz could resist sounding as eager as ever to go into battle. How adorable. As quickly as my smile appeared, however, it soon slipped away as I recalled what my Diamond had told me.

“Well, if you’re going to do that, I must ask that you not go overboard,” I said. “My orders are to bring Rose Quartz to White Diamond and I’m certain she won’t be pleased with a pile of Gem shards.”

“Tch,” huffed Jasper, her brow furrowing in annoyance. She then shrugged. “Holding back isn’t really my style, but I’ll do my best.”

“Very good.” I flashed her an approving grin.

The ground beneath us began to jolt a bit and I could hear the faint rumbling of the ship powering up. I held out my right hand, and in seconds, my Gem weapon appeared. It was a large hooked staff, a crook, for lack of a better term. I slammed its base against the smooth floor, causing an audible clack. It was a habit of mine, summoning my weapon like this. I think somewhere, deep in my Gem, I believed that it would give me some sort of stability, especially during take-off. The Quartzes under my control had come to expect this, so for a brief moment, I thought nothing of my actions. That was when I realized that the Quartz beside me wasn’t mine.

Turning towards Jasper, I could see that she’d taken a few steps back, her eyes locked on my weapon. Sure, a crook might not have been the most intimidating of weapons, but any Quartz worth their Gem knew that an armed Agate was serious business. Realizing my error, I gave her an apologetic smile and held the crook closer to myself.

“My apologies,” I said sheepishly. “It’s a habit.” A dark tangerine blush crept onto Jasper’s cheeks, but I only saw it for a split second before she turned away. I slowly began to smirk. “I didn’t scare you, did I?”

“No,” Jasper replied hotly, looking back at me with an offended expression. “You just caught me off-guard, that’s all.”

“Right, right.” It was my turn to avert my gaze as I smiled at the wall. There was another grunt before I heard footsteps. Turning back to Jasper, I watched as she started off down the corridor.

“I’ve gotta go,” I heard her mutter. I watched after her, lost in the sway of her mane and the swing of her broad shoulders. Oh...goodness me…

Alright, I thought once Jasper had disappeared from sight. I’d better get to work. Let’s see what that Lapis has to say about Rose Quartz.

My search for the captured terraformer ended as I wandered past the interrogation room. It rested right in the center of the ship’s prison area, and as I approached the door, I could hear the muffled voice of the Peridot. I stepped closer to the closed door, listening for a moment.

“Please don’t make this difficult,” she was saying, exasperated, by the sound of it. “All you have to do is tell me the location of the Crystal Gem base; Jasper and Zebra Agate will handle the rest.”

There was no response. Ah...such a tired, old tactic. When would Gems understand that the silent treatment never worked? The Peridot groaned.

“Why won’t you answer!?” she demanded. “You said you were being held prisoner, didn’t you? So why protect those traitors!?”

Again, Lapis wouldn’t answer. I decided that now would be a good time to make my entrance. I knocked, and seconds later, the door slid open, the Peridot staring up at me.

“Zebra Agate,” she began, saluting to me. “Is everything okay?”

“You’re interviewing the Lapis Lazuli?” I asked. I peered over the Peridot’s shoulder and caught a glimpse of the prisoner. She looked up at me, and her eyes widened in what I could only assume to be dread.

“Yes, ma’am,” replied the Peridot. “Though she’s being difficult…”

“I see. Well, then, perhaps I should give it a try. She’d be a fool to keep information from one of White Diamond’s Agates.”

“Right.” The Peridot stepped aside, allowing me to walk into the small room. The walls were even an even brighter shade of yellow, if that was even possible, though I figured it was to add some extra stress to those who refused to talk. The Lapis Lazuli was seated at a small, metal table, her wrists bound by cuffs of electronic energy. I stood across from her, looming over her as I summoned my crook.

CLACK!

The base of my crook hit the floor, forcing the Lapis to flinch.

“Now…” I began coldly. “Where do I begin with you, Lapis Lazuli? I don’t know everything about your time on Earth and, frankly, I don’t care to ask about most of it. However, there is one thing I’d like to know. I’m sure you know what it is. You might not be willing to tell the Peridot, but I’d advise against keeping information from me.”

The Lapis’ eyes wandered over to my hand, watching as it squeezed the crook’s handle. She swallowed. It was hard to keep a straight face; there was a sort-of twisted satisfaction to making Gems bend to my will without the use of violence. A bit sadistic of me, perhaps, but it was what I was made for.

“...I already said that I don’t know anything else…” the terraformer finally muttered. She hung her head, her hands clenched into fists. “I’ve said it a million times: The Crystal Gems held me prisoner and I escaped back to Homeworld as soon as I got the chance.”

Fury shot through me like a surge of lightning when the Lapis mentioned the rebel army’s name. I couldn’t stop myself as I lunged forward, bringing the hook of my crook around the Lapis’ neck and jerking her towards me. She cried out as her front half was roughly dragged along the table, not that I cared. Leaning down, I stared the terrified Gem in the eyes.

“You dare speak the name of those traitors in front of me?” I whispered. She could only reply with short, terrified gasps. “Those clumps of dirt who kept you prisoner with a cracked Gem? This shouldn’t be difficult, and yet, you’re hesitating to do what’s right and turn them in. Does Rose Quartz need to shatter your Diamond next before you come to your senses?”

I held the Lapis Lazuli in that position for a few moments, watching her intensely as she shivered and panted. Tears were forming in her eyes; she was completely at my mercy, and she knew it. All too easy. My anger began to cool as I removed the crook from the Lapis’ body. I rested a hand on her chin, gingerly lifting it up.

“Listen,” I now said in a gentle tone. “You can’t tell me that you don’t want to see the Gems that hurt you face judgement. You tell us a location and all of this will be over. You’ll be free to return to the life that was robbed from you for thousands of years.” I paused, studying the Lapis’ expression. She seemed lost in her thoughts; she lost eye contact with me. I could tell she was taking in what I was saying, though.

“We’ll find them eventually, no matter how long it takes, and you’ll be with us every step of the way. Make things easy for all of us. Give us a location.”

A silence fell as I waited for the Lapis to make her choice. I could only imagine the Peridot’s reactions throughout this entire interrogation. Finally, after what felt like years of waiting, I got the answer I’d been waiting for.

“Beach City,” said the Lapis quietly, her eyes closing. “The Crystal Gems base is in a place called Beach City, along the ocean.”

“There,” I cooed. I allowed her to slip back into her seat. “See how easy that was?” The Lapis Lazuli didn’t respond, and I didn’t wait for an answer. I turned to Peridot. “Locate this “Beach City” once we reach Earth. I’ll start my search for Rose Quartz there while you and your escort continue with your Cluster business.”

“Of course,” said the Peridot. I could see the faintest hint of admiration in her eyes. “Thank you, Zebra Agate.”

“Mmm,” I responded with a nod. I made my leave; the Peridot could deal with the prisoner now. A smirk graced my features as I headed for one of the higher-ranking quarters. All I had to do now was wait.