#starry adventure pouch

[archerinventive]

"It's not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves." -William Shakespeare

Coming to you today with this closeup look at one of the medium sized Starry Adventure Pouches. ⭐

Currently in the shop. https://www.etsy.com/shop/ArcherInventive

I hope your Sunday has been treating you all well. 💙

[sosuperawesome]

Starry Adventure Pouches // Archer Inventive

[netesecretlover]

HEYHEYHEYYY SAW UR REQ POST AND THIUGHT ABOUT ASKING !!!

SOOO I WAS THINKING ABOUT SOME LOAK X HUMAN!FEM READER DRABBLE !! Just a random idea but I'd love to see some cute fluffy fuc about loak taking a liking to reader and has spent some time with her, and eventually his feelings grew but he doenst know how to confess without being a fumbling mess so he does that one scene from Love, Actually with the cards and all that with a hint of reader accepting it and saying right after "I kinda always knew" and Lo'ak js passes out HAHAHAHHA

You can do whatever you want and add some of your ideas too! XOXO

★ Starry Sky

Lo'ak Sully x humain!fem!reader

丨Words: 3k

丨Summary: Growing up on Pandora with the Sully family, you share a routine of daily adventures. Lo'ak, secretly in love with you, struggles to express his feelings. Encouraged by his family, Lo'ak decides to finally confess his love under Pandora's stars. The outcome remains uncertain, but the enchanting atmosphere sets the stage for a heartfelt revelation.

丨Warning : pure fluff, some Arabic love quotes (only two), Lo'ak is so whipped for reader, first fic <3 Not proof read too

丨Notes : Anonym request ! I hope you'll like it, I started writing and I couldn't stop haha. I'm sorry if it wasn't what you asked for.

!!ENGLISH IS NOT MY FIRST LANGUAGE!!

After the Sky People were sent back to Earth, some humans were allowed to stay on Pandora alongside the Na'vi. Among them were your parents, two scientists who had always advocated for the Na'vi alongside Grace, Norm, and Jake. A few years later, you were born. Thanks to the connections your parents had with Neytiri and Jake, you spent your youth alongside the Sully family. You had established a small routine at a very young age. In the morning, you would wake up and have a quick breakfast with your parents. Then, grabbing your little pouch and bidding your parents farewell, you would hurry to join your friends. Every day on Pandora was an adventure for you.

Walking on the cool forest floor toward the village, upon arrival, everyone was already up. Some Na'vi went foraging, while others went hunting. Children sat around an elder of the village, listening to a story. You smiled gently and made your way up to the Sully family house.

As you approached the entrance, suddenly, Tuk appeared, running. She screamed with joy before Neteyam caught her and tossed her into the air. You chuckled slightly, catching Neteyam's attention.

"Oh, hey Y/N," Neteyam said with a smile. He held Tuk in his arms, and she also greeted you with a big smile. "Lo'ak! Your sweetheart Y/N is here!" Neteyam called to his brother.

Your face turned a shade of violet, and Neteyam burst into laughter. Sounds could be heard from inside the house—footsteps—and finally, Lo'ak emerged.

"Hi Y/N…" Lo'ak said with a shy smile. "I didn't know you were coming to the house today, not that I don't want to see you! I like seeing you; you're pretty, I mean, not that you weren't before! Yes—" Lo'ak stammered and spoke very quickly; you didn't quite catch the end.

"Kiri invited me to gather pearls together." You replied, smiling.

At that moment, time seemed to slow down for Lo'ak, his eyes lingering on every detail of your face. He seemed captivated, as if simply hearing your voice or seeing you smile brought him indescribable joy.

"Pearls, huh?" he repeated, searching for his words. "That's great. I mean, you'll surely look beautiful with pearl bracelets. Well, you already are, you know… beautiful, I mean."

A slight blush tinted Lo'ak's cheeks as he tried to compose himself, continuing to smile mischievously. His words seemed to jumble in his head, perhaps reflecting the confusion of his feelings.

You chuckled at the scene. He was cute, you thought. Neteyam and Tuk had stepped back a bit to give you some space. Neteyam sighed, looking at his younger brother; he had a long way to go, he thought.

At the same time, Kiri came out of the house with a handcrafted pouch around her waist. You gave one last smile to Lo'ak and greeted everyone before heading, with Kiri, towards the village's exit.

"Pearls, huh? That's great. I mean, you'll surely look beautiful with pearl bracelets. Well, you already are, you know… beautiful," Neteyam said, mockingly mimicking his brother. "You could have at least told her to be careful in the forest; you really have things to learn."

Lo'ak remained there, watching you walk away with Kiri, his persistent smile and dreamy gaze. Neteyam shook his head, looking at his brother with a mischievous smile.

"You are truly hopeless, Lo'ak. You look like a hopelessly in love teenager every time she's around," teased Neteyam.

Lo'ak rolled his eyes but couldn't help but laugh slightly. "Oh, leave me alone, Neteyam. You don't understand."

Neteyam raised an eyebrow, teasing. "Really? And what don't I understand?"

Lo'ak hesitated for a moment, then opened up. "It's just… it's been a long time, you know. Since we were kids. I can't quite remember exactly when it happened, but there's something about her that has always… captured my heart. Since our childhood, Neteyam."

His older brother looked at him with a knowing smile.

Lo'ak's smile softened. "Everything about her appeals to me. The fact that she's smaller than me makes me want to protect her, even though she can defend herself without me. She's so good with the clan's little ones, teaching them English and games from her world. There isn't a memory where she isn't present. It's like she's always been there, an integral part of my life. And today, seeing her, I realize that it hasn't changed. My heart still beats faster when she's around. It's… it's more than just an attraction, Neteyam. I think I'm really in love with her."

Neteyam looked at his brother with sudden understanding, his teasing demeanor giving way to genuine respect. "Well, little brother, maybe it's time to tell her. You'll never know if she feels the same unless you try."

Lo'ak sighed, knowing that Neteyam was right. "Maybe, but it's scary,

you know? What if she doesn't feel the same? She's human, and I'm… I'm just me." Lo'ak looked at his hands. "I'm nothing special; she'd probably prefer to be with another human, even if there aren't really any her age, or someone skilled in something."

His brother placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Lo'ak, don't talk about yourself like that. You know, she has admired you since she was little. The biggest regret you could have is never trying. Life is too short not to pursue what you really want. And who knows, maybe the love you've felt for so long is reciprocated. Have you ever noticed how she looks at you when you're not paying attention? It's like she's waiting for you to make the first move."

Lo'ak watched you disappear into the forest, a mix of apprehension and determination in his gaze. Perhaps it was time to let his heart speak, to share his feelings with the one who had held a special place in his life for so long.

The golden rays of the sun filtered through the dense canopy of Pandora's forest, creating a mosaic of light and shadow dancing on the emerald-covered ground. Towering trees with twisted trunks and bioluminescent leaves stood majestically above the two friends, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.

The gentle murmur of the breeze blended with the songs of exotic birds, forming a natural symphony that seemed to envelop each of your steps and those of Kiri. Vibrantly colored flowers blossomed along the path, attracting butterflies with shimmering wings. The endless shades of green in the vegetation ranged from the soft foliage of plants to the darker tones of lush shrubs.

As you walked, Kiri broke the silence with a teasing question. "So, Y/N, how's it going with Lo'ak?"

You smiled, reminiscing about Lo'ak's earlier awkward moments. "Oh, you know, the usual stammering and slightly awkward compliments. Nothing new."

Kiri joyfully chuckled. "He's so cute when he tries, isn't he? But seriously, between you and him, how is it really going?"

You pretended to ponder, picking up a few pearls along the way. "Well, we've been friends forever. But recently, it's different. Well, maybe it's me starting to notice something different in him…"

Kiri arched an eyebrow, smiling mischievously. "Different? Like what, for example?"

You blushed slightly. "I notice his awkward side, which I don't mind. He may seem immature, but when things get serious, he can be serious. He cares about the people around him, even if sometimes he acts on his own… but I don't mind that."

Kiri, instead of directly confirming Lo'ak's feelings, teased you with a mischievous smile. "Ah, love is in the air. It feels like the beginning of a grand adventure. What do you plan to do now?"

You shrugged, not quite sure what to say.

"Wait for him to make the first move, if he likes me, of course. But there are so many talented girls in the clan. Ti'avin, one of the best singers, and her sister who seems to float when she dances. I'm just human; I could never be skilled enough… I have this feeling that he likes me. Sometimes his lingering glances, how he hugs me when he's happy, and when he blushes. I really feel like he likes me, but I'm not sure."

Kiri, sensing the note of doubt in your words, shook her head firmly. "Well, listen to me, Y/N. You're amazing in your own way. Beauty isn't just in singing or dancing. It's in the way you walk through this forest, the way you smile when Lo'ak awkwardly compliments you. You are unique, and no one else can do it like you."

She gave you a friendly shoulder bump. "And don't underestimate Lo'ak. You don't need to compete with anyone. Just be yourself."

You looked at your best friend, your gaze reflecting gratitude. "You always have a way of lifting my spirits, Kiri. Thank you."

Kiri smiled. "That's what friends are supposed to do, right? Now, forget the doubts and let's quickly gather the pearls."

She pointed to a spot where a sparkling waterfall merged into a natural pool, creating an enchanting tableau. "And how about picking some of those flowers? They'll add a special touch to our pearl bracelets."

You smiled, grateful for Kiri's reassuring presence. You continued your walk through the forest, pushing away dark thoughts and letting yourself be carried away by the magical beauty surrounding you.

During the week, Lo'ak seemed to be elusive. Whenever you approached him, he found an excuse and fled. Initially, you thought he was probably busy, but after five consistent days of lies, you began to be hurt by his actions. Several times, Kiri caught your gaze, which was devoid of any joy.

Had you done something wrong?

That was the question you had posed to your best friend. You could see the disappointment in her eyes. She reassured you throughout the evening until mealtime.

During dinner, the Sully family noticed Lo'ak's absence. He was there, but his gaze was lost. He hadn't even touched his food, which worried Neytiri. Kiri stared fixedly at her brother. At the end of dinner, before he could come up with an excuse to escape once again, she took her brother by the arm and led him in front of the house. She made him sit on the edge, feet dangling.

"Lo'ak, what's wrong? You look troubled," she asked with concern.

Lo'ak sighed, feeling a bit overwhelmed. "It's Y/N. I wanted to confess my feelings to her, but every time I try, I lose my words, or worse, I feel paralyzed. So, I run away like a fool. And I can see that it hurts her, but I don't know how to go about it."

Kiri looked at him with understanding. "You know, Lo'ak, Y/N might have already noticed your feelings. She is very attentive, you know."

Lo'ak lowered his eyes, a mix of sadness and frustration on his face. "I've tried, you know. I wanted to court her seriously and give her gifts every day, in the Na'vi way, but I don't know if that's what she prefers. I feel like I'm acting like a child, and I don't know how to tell her what I really feel."

Kiri gently placed her hand on her brother's shoulder. "Lo'ak, you are sincere, that's what matters. And maybe you can ask our old father for advice."

Lo'ak nodded, appreciating his sister's advice.

Kiri left, smiling at Lo'ak, giving him some space to think. As calm returned, Jake approached and sat next to his son.

"Is everything okay?" asked Jake, noticing Lo'ak's troubled expression.

Lo'ak sighed. "It's Y/N, father. I wanted to confess my feelings to her, but every time I try, I lose my words, or I feel paralyzed. I don't want to hurt her, but I don't know how to go about it."

Jake placed a reassuring hand on Lo'ak's shoulder. "Feelings are complicated, Lo'ak. But there's something I remember from a movie I saw back on Earth, before coming here. It was a movie called 'Love Actually.' There was a scene where a boy confesses his feelings to a girl with cards. Since you can't seem to speak, maybe that could work."

Lo'ak looked up, intrigued. "Cards?"

"Yes, cards. He wrote his feelings on cards, one by one. It was a sincere declaration of love, and it was beautiful because it was honest and authentic. Maybe you could try something similar, express what you feel through carefully chosen words."

Lo'ak pondered the idea, wondering if this approach could be the key to overcoming his difficulties in expressing himself. "It might work. Thank you, father. I'll think about it."

Jake gave him an encouraging smile. "Don't forget, Lo'ak, love doesn't follow a script. Be yourself, and it will all happen as it should."

Lo'ak nodded, grateful for his father's advice.

Night fell gently on Pandora, painting the sky with shades of orange and purple. You stood at the edge of a cliff, contemplating the celestial spectacle unfolding before you. The stars shone with brilliant intensity, creating a magical tableau in the darkness.

As you lost yourself in the stars, a slight noise behind you made you turn around. It was Lo'ak, holding large cards in his hands. He seemed awkward, but his eyes sparkled with a determined light.

"Lo'ak?" you said, surprised to see him here.

Lo'ak stammered for a moment before taking a deep breath. "Y/N, there's something I've wanted to tell you for a long time. I… I don't always manage to find the words, so I thought maybe, cards could help me."

He carefully unfolded the first card, hand-written words displayed. "You are like the stars, Y/N, lighting up my life with your presence. Every time I see the starry sky, I think of you."

You read the words, Lo'ak's emotions expressed through each line. You looked up at him, and he continued, a bit more confident.

"When you're around, the world seems to slow down." You read before he changed the card. "Your smiles brighten my days, and your presence fills me with joy." Your cheeks began to warm.

"You are the most beautiful fate."

"You are the love of my soul."

These were such romantic phrases. Your heart was racing.

"I know I'm clumsy with words, but I want to tell you that…" Lo'ak lowered the card, looking at you with an intensity that reflected his deep love. "I see you with my heart, not my eyes. Oel Ngati Kameie."

You were moved by the sincerity of his words, remaining speechless for a moment.

"Lo'ak…" you finally whispered, a radiant smile lighting up your face. "It's beautiful."

Lo'ak offered you a shy but joyful smile. "I was afraid you wouldn't understand, that my words wouldn't live up to what I truly feel."

You approached him and gently took his hands. "Lo'ak, your words are perfect. And you… you are perfect."

Lo'ak stepped towards you, letting the cards fall from his hands, and embraced you. Your face was buried in his chest, and he held you a little tighter, the warmth of his embrace enveloping you.

The stars shone above you, silent witnesses to this magical moment. Then, without a word, Lo'ak wrapped his arms around your waist to lift you slightly. Your head was now at his level. His freckles glistened, and without saying a word, he captured your lips in a sweet and passionate kiss.

As you separated, you rested your head against Lo'ak's shoulder.

After a few moments in silence, you sat together on the edge of the cliff, your hands still entwined, and looked up at the starry sky.

"You know, Lo'ak, I had a feeling," you admitted softly, a teasing smile on your lips.

Lo'ak looked at you, surprised. "Really?"

You nodded. "Yes, but I wanted you to make the first move. And I'm so happy that you did."

You stayed there, marveling at the beauty of the night sky, sharing laughter, knowing glances, and silent promises for the future.

Your differences were just an insignificant detail in the infinite brilliance of the stars, a symbol of love that had finally found its way.

[figdays]

Starry Adventure Pouch // ArcherInventive

[chaos-smoothie]

As he watched the adventurer sheathed his sword and got down on one knee, the tiny dragon screeched a high-pitched scream. It could be a scream of either terror or rage. It was hard to tell, even for the little dragon. "Hey there, little buddy" The man spoke calmly, as he lifted the itty bitty dragon up by its tail. The dragon clung to its coin, screaming and flapping its wings. "I'm not gonna hurt you, lil dude."

The tiny creature was the same color as one would imagine the void, with four webbed wings that bore a starry pinprick pattern. It wasn't quite black, but it wasn't grey, or blue, or purple. There were hints of another color in it, but it was impossible to tell just from looking.

Filled with sudden determination, the creature decided it was time to be brave as it spat out a tiny pellet of glowing purple substance in a desperate attempt at retallation. The pellet didn't travel very far, and both the dragon and the adventurer watched in awkward silence as slowly drifted to the ground. As the little ball wilted the grass it made contact with, the adventurer tutted the dragon. "Now now, little dragon. Don't go around spitting up your little pellets like that, no need to be an eco terrorist." The dragon gave him a deadpan glare with it's cream yellow eyes, still clutching it's precious coin.

Deciding to take the dragon home, the iron-clad human opened up one of his thick leather pouches. The pouch was fireproof, specifically designed to carry any part of a slain greater dragon that still contained fire. The star-winged was no greater dragon, and while the adventurer wasn't sure what was in that purple pellet, he knew it certainly wasn't fire. "Oh well." The adventurer muttered. "it will have to do." The little creature seemed to realize what was happening, and it started to flail about as the adventurer dropped it into the little bag.

"You're coming with me now, little dragon." The adventurer commented, seemingly unbothered by the angry failings of the little beast. From the dragon's perspective, the dry, cool darkness was the closest thing to home it had seen since it first set foot upon this land of humans. All the dragons around here were big and scary, and all the humans were stupid enough to take them on. Some of them even won. This was all very new to the tiny dragon.

At some point, the adventurer must have decided that it was enough for one day, and took a wagon home. Lulled to sleep by the ride, the Creature was awoken when the pouch he was in was dropped somewhere. He heard a door close, and assumed they had arrived at whatever destination they were headed to. Still clinging to the coin, the dragon decided to sooth it's nerves by licking it. It's saliva dissolved the corroded material, and while the coin was gradually getting smaller, it was very shiny.

"Little dragon!" The swordsman exclaimed. The creature noticed he was no longer armored. Hunching over his coin, the creature hissed in an unknown language "How dare you not perceive me as a threat." The adventurer looked amused. "that certainly doesn't sound like draconic." The creature barked out a reply, bearing no understanding of human language."I am the greatest creature you will ever face!" To prove this point, it inhaled deeply, it's belly glowing purple. "no no no, little creature." The adventurer said as he picked up the dragon in one hand and pointed it outside. "No shooting pellets in the house." The creature coughed up a slightly larger pellet of energy that traveled a little bit further than the last. "HOW DARE YOU, VILE HEATHEN!" the dark dragon roared.

This was met with head pats. Angry and tired, the dragon attempted to fold it's starry wings around itself, but the way the human was holding it prevented such a movement. The human pointed at the small beast, and said "Bat." The dragon didn't understand. The human pointed again, and said "Bat." The dragon gave his best "the hell do you want from me" look, and then turned away.

Soon, the little creature was placed in an empty cup. A few moments later, the adventurer took the dragon's coin, and the dragon took wing. Launching into the sky like a little hissing dart, the beast started nipping at the ears of the human. The human smacked it away and yelled "BAT!" angirly, but the dragon recovered in time and took off again. He knew what he wanted, and he was damn well going to fight for it.

That's all I wanted to write, who knows I might pick this up later!

I'm too lazy to proofread so this is probably trash. Also I got a lil distracted and made these gremlins.

You wished to find a dragon to slay for its treasure. Now you’re not sure how to feel seeing a thumb-sized dragon try to drag its single shiny copper coin with it as it runs away from you.

[ainarosewood]

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@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast​

FFxivWrite2022 Day 21 Prompt Solution

“Uhh can I help you….miss?”  the carriage driver asked nervously  

Eirunn sighed and gave a small smile making sure no teeth showed, she had learned early on that some people were quite terrified of that from her, “I seek passage to Gridania would this be the carriage that is headed that direction.”

The driver nodded, “Aye…”

“Well then here is the fair I trust or is it more?” she stated handing the man a purse of gil.  

“More than enough mmiss feel free to climb aboard.” he responded, taking the pouch without so much as opening it to count.

Sighing again she nodded and made her way to the back to climb up.  It was amazing how many people were terrified of her by appearance alone.  Granted she knew Hrothgar were rare in Eorzea but she didn’t expect to see so many terrified of her.

As she climbed up the entire carriage swayed dramatically and she murmured an apology to the young Elezen twins that were already seated.  Both blinked in surprise at her though unlike most Eorzean’s they didn’t seem afraid more curious.  She could see that the one in blue was wanting to ask a question but was weighing it.  She could only summarize he was wondering if it would be rude.

She took a seat across from them carefully curling her tail next to her and doing her best to take up as little room as possible.  Not an easy feat for the Hrothgar considering her height and bulk.  Once settled she leaned back and waited certain that the young Elezen would soon ask what he would ask and suspected what it was.

For those that had seen Hrothgar before she often got questions about her appearance.  It was unavoidable and expected.  She was tall for one but that wasn’t what it was usually about.  Normally the questions were about why she had horns and why was her tail so much thicker than other Hrothgar.

Within moments the young one spoke, “Pray forgive me if this comes across as improper but might I ask you a bit about yourself?”

She opened her eyes and looked the young man in the eye, “Yer wondering why I have horns since yer keen enough to see they aren't some form of headgear?  And why is my tail so much thicker than other Hrothgar?”

“I…well yes pray forgive me if I have offended…” he blurted color filling his cheeks

She shook her head, “Nay lad, I get it all the time.  Answers simple, I’m only half Hrothgar, my father is a dragon, though not the kind yer used to seeing.”

His blue eyes widened and he simply said, “I see,” falling silent after that.  

She was a bit surprised, normally people scoffed when she said her father was a dragon but the boy seemed to accept it without protest.  Then again he seemed an intellectual sort judging by the tome at his hip.  So it stood to reason he was smart enough to know there would be no reason she would lie about it.

One more passenger climbed aboard a merchant who seemed keen on speaking to all of them.  Deciding she was done with answering questions Eirunn simply closed her eyes intending to simply fein sleep however as the driver got the birds moving the gentle sway of the carriage soon had her actually falling into a slumber.

Soon she found herself in the same dream she had been plagued by lately.  Walking through a starry expanse, stars falling and a sinister man in black with a lurid red mask appearing to attack her.  When she woke with a start she could hear the merchant asking about her.

He then gave himself the answer to his question and proceeded to ask several more, if she was a new adventurer, what made her choose that life and the like.  She gave him short answers not really wanting to admit to a stranger that she herself was unsure of the actual answer to that question especially since the dream began.

She could almost consider it a blessing when the arrow came down and landed between her and the merchant, silencing him even if it was just a moment.  She turned to see several bird like humanoids rushing forward and fighting with Hyur and Elezen clad in red with masks. The masked Elezen who had  stopped their carriage before the arrow struck bid the driver to attempt to get away.

Eirunn got up and leapt off of the carriage and decided to give these folks aid seeing as the bird men were pressing them hard.  Swiftly she unslung her lance and joined the fray.  It didn’t take long for them to route the birdmen and the folks she fought alongside thanked her for the aid and directed her how to find the gate of the city.

It didn’t take long for the Hrothgar to find the gate but she was immediately held up at it by the two guards out front.  Sighing in annoyance she stated, “I am coming here to register as an adventurer, I mean you and your city no harm.”

The two guards exchanged looks and one sheathed his weapon and touched his ear about to speak when he stiffened as a woman with horns clad in white came through the gate flanked by a pair of guards bearing spears.

“My, my lady please do not come out the gate at the moment the situation…”

“What situation pray tell,” the woman asked looking at the guards and Eirunn and back, “Why do you have weapons drawn against a visitor to our city?  I see hers is clearly sheath in the harness upon her back.”

“I…” the man stammered, “My lady she is a beastman…”

Resisting the urge to growl knowing full well it would only make things worse Eirunn stated softly, “I am no beastman, my kindred are known as Hrothgar sir we are quite civilized despite our ‘beastly’ appearance I assure you.”

The woman nodded stating, “Pray forgive the hostil welcome, not many of your kindred come to the Twelveswood and none to my knowledge as unique as you seem to be.”

Eirunn gave the woman a bow, “I understand ma’am it is sadly a common reaction to me in general.  I have grown used to it.”

The woman nodded in understanding sympathy filling her gaze then asked, “What brings you to our fair city?”

“I wish to register as an adventurer here,”  Eirunn replied, “I have some skill with a spear and was told that this would be the city best suited for me since it had a guild for lancers.”

The woman nodded again and gave her a warm smile, “Full glad am I that you have chosen to come here then, I am Kan’a’Sena leader of Gridania and allow me to bid you welcome and once again apologize for the actions of my countrymen.”

Eriunn returned the smile, “An honor to meet you then, I am called Eirunn Stohahm.  And as I said before there is naught to forgive. I have become accustomed to such treatment.”

Kan’e simply nodded in acceptance then stated, “As much as I would love to show you into our fair city I am afraid my duties take me to the forest beyond.  Till we meet again,”

Eirunn nodded in understanding, giving another bow before stepping to the side stating, “Take care, not long ago some birdmen were attacking some of your soldiers.  I gave them aid as best I could and it seems they’ve gone for now.”

Kan’e frowned, “Mayhap that is why the elementals are agitated,” shaking her head she smile and added, “Thank you for the warning I will take all due caution,”

She and her guard then stepped past both of them seeming to be on more alert than they had initially been and once the trio had left Eirunn looked at the two gate guards who simply motioned she could step through.  She gave them a nod and walked through the gate and into the city proper.

[rallis-fatalis]

The Price of Freedom - Chapter 3

New year, new chapter! I hope to do a good few this year. Please enjoy the next installment of Astrath's adventures!

“Now just open the pouch and prepare yourself.”

The black dragon took a steadying breath and gripped the edges of the tan cloth pouch. After a moment, they nearly ripped it open with such force. Out of the mouth of the pouch shot forth a golden light that landed in a writhing mass on the ground before the dragon. The pouch erupted in a golden shower of light in kind. The flailing light began to take shape, something long and noodley. Four small almost vestigial legs formed, then a mane of fur-like spines, until finally the light disappeared with a pop and what slithered before the dragon now was something long and snakelike. They had made a wyrm appear out of thin air! Its golden scales and red spines looked heavily out of place among the green grass and verdant shrubbery.

“Very good! Now try to command it,” a man standing behind the dragon directed. He was bald and sported green robes and a long white cape with a wolf stitched on the back.

The black dragon nodded and gave the wyrm a concentrated glare, attempting to assert dominance without the spoken word. The wyrm reared back its head and hissed, forked tongue flicking between long sharp fangs. Its tail flicked wildly like a rattler, and it squirmed and growled like an unholy beast.

“It will be more strong-willed than a wolf or dreadfowl,” the bald man said. “Keep at it!”

The black dragon flashed its teeth in a snarl and flared open its wings ever so slightly, starry membrane glittering ever so delicately in the sunlight. Suddenly, it felt like a large amount of their energy had drained away. The dragon struggled to maintain the glare but powered through, and after the initial draining feeling faded away, the wyrm whined and loosened its stance and bowed its head, subdued. The black dragon took a breath and smiled at the man behind him. The man gave him a nod and a smile in return.

“Very good, Astrath. You’re advancing well, especially for someone not native here.”

The dragon, Astrath, leaned down and held a hand out to the newly tamed wyrm. It slithered up their arm and coiled around their neck and shoulders with a curious flick of the tongue. Astrath gave the wyrm a gentle stroke, combing their claws through its mane of spines.

“That little one won’t last on this plane long so make your time count,” the man said.

“Thank you, Master Pikkupstix,” the dragon said with a bowed head. “When do you think I will be able to move onto the larger beasts? Minotaurs, I believe I heard you call them?”

“Whoa there, friend, let’s not get hasty. Those beasts are very difficult to handle and in untrained hands can run wild and cause great destruction. You are not quite ready yet.” 

Astrath huffed in disdain. They wanted the power this newfangled summoning skill promised! A way to take back Krawley manor, free everyone and exact revenge, was right at their fingertips and their own tutor wouldn’t let them continue. It was an outrage! Smoke rose from Astrath’s nostrils, startling the wyrm around their shoulders, but the dragon said nothing and instead spun on their heels and angrily walked through the town.

Astrath noticed no one and nothing as they stalked through town. Other summoning apprentices remarked on the job well done to summon something as surly as a desert wyrm, while other townsfolk simply admired the beautiful day with their own pets and familiars out and about. Speaking of, Rojaw the fire drake was currently chasing someone’s pet squirrel around the trunk of a tree in a dizzying game of tag. The sight sobered the black dragon back to reality.

“Hey Rojaw,” Astrath started. They held out their arm for the wyrm to coil itself around. “Look what I summoned today.”

The wyrm hissed and slithered down to the ground. Rojaw bounded over, excitedly giving the summoned wyrm a sniff. It returned the gesture in kind.

“Our friend won’t be here long. Why not show them a good time, hmm?”

Rojaw chirped and wagged his tail. He gestured the wyrm toward the squirrel and the tree so they could continue playing. Astrath chuckled as they watched the three beasts squeal and play. If the wyrm had to be summoning practice, the least the dragon could do was give it a good time while it was on this plane. They let them play and headed to the house of Silenthe, the druid kindly providing shelter during their stay in Taverley.

Astrath made their way to a two storey hut more furnished with plant life than actual lodging accommodations. Inside, Silenthe was baking a chicken for lunch and soup stock, making Astrath drool involuntarily. Silenthe gave the front door a glance and smiled to himself as Astrath walked in.

“Hungry I take it? Don’t get my nice wood floor too wet now.”

Astrath ashamedly wiped their mouth. “Do you need any assistance?”

“No, thank you. I’m nearly done. How did summoning practice go?”

“I’ve managed to summon a wyrm now.”

“That’s actually a bit impressive.” Silenthe sprinkled some spices on a tray of roasted potatoes and checked on the chicken. “You learn quickly.”

“Yet Master Pikkupstix refuses to allow me the knowledge to practice with the more difficult beasts.”

“He has a very good reason for that. The last time a student summoned a strong beast they were not ready to handle, it killed not only the student but three apprentices nearby and demolished a pair of buildings. Pikkupstix has been very cautious since.”

Astrath grumbled but understood the reasoning.

“You shouldn’t rush to that anyway. It’s time to relax and enjoy the festivities soon.”

The dragon cocked their head. “Festivities?”

“Oh, did I not tell you? In two days we will be celebrating midsummer. There are costumes and dances and delicious foods, and by the end we celebrate our surplus of herbs with a little… libation, amongst other things.”

Astrath hid a snicker at the idea of the entire town dancing around drunkenly. The people of Taverley seemed like they would be a lot more fun when they drank than the stuck-ups at the Krawley dinner table.

Silenthe hauled the roasted chicken out of the oven and sprinkled it with another round of spices. He transferred it to a large platter and brought it to the dining table alongside the roasted potatoes and pitcher of water. Even after spending a couple weeks under the same roof as the druid, Astrath was still not used to the copious amount of mouth-watering food the man just casually gave the dragon. They didn’t have to work their scales off or beg like a dog or take a beating just for a chance at scraps. All Astrath did was kill and pluck the chicken and pick the potatoes and Silenthe called that meager work more than enough help. They didn’t think they’d ever get used to such generosity.

Astrath brought Rojaw in for his share, summoned wyrm tagging along to simply enjoy living for a moment in this new world, and the quartet passed the lunchtime away in familial conversation.

__________________________________________________________________________

Music streamed throughout Taverley, sun adornments hung on every flat surface or open face, glasses of wine or other drink were clinked together in merriment. The day of the midsummer festival had arrived. A great series of tables had been put together for the whole town to come together for a great feast, and already the townsfolk were busy preparing great abundances of food. The younger members of Taverley ran about in festive attire, some alongside their animal or summoned companions, playing games and causing scenes of joy. Some of the adults were working on building an effigy of sorts atop the hill near the druidic altar for a later ceremony. It was all far too much for Astrath to take in at once. They had never seen anything like this. So many happy people and festive decor and just things and happenings in one place. It threatened to overwhelm them.

Silenthe wasn’t there to explain anything or lead the dragon around, too busy helping with the feast setup, leaving the dragon to stand awkwardly by the corner of a shaded building with an antsy Rojaw beside them. The little fire drake stamped his feet and paced as he wanted to run around and sniff and explore, but he also didn’t want to leave his friend’s side. 

Astrath didn’t miss his companion’s gestures. “Rojaw, you can go have fun if you’d like. I think I just need a few more minutes to… adjust.”

The drakeling whimpered and rubbed his face against Astrath’s leg in comfort. He wouldn’t leave just yet.

After some time of waiting and watching in the shadowed silence, Astrath took note of a trio of druids setting something up by the altar with the effigy. Whatever they were doing caught their attention, or rather their nose’s attention, and so they went to investigate. Rojaw took this as his cue to leave and hopped away to mooch at the feast table.

On the dais in the center of the altar, the three druids were setting up long, thin, flat strips of metal, nearly the size of someone’s forearm. There were holes on one end of each metal strip, and Astrath watched in curiosity as the druids placed long thin sticks inside each hole. The sticks were tipped with something that smelled confusing, sweet but smoky, good but bad, a conundrum for the nostrils.

One druid took notice of Astrath’s lingering, and after a small jolt of shock at the sudden appearance of the dragon, waved hello.

“My apologies, I did not mean to startle you,” the dragon started. “I was simply interested in this part of the festival, is all. What is it you three are doing?”

“Oh, we’re just setting up the incense burners,” one druid explained. “After the feast and dances, we light these incense sticks, say our prayers and wishes to the icon,” he motioned to the effigy, “and then burn it so our wishes may rise and hopefully the answers brought back down to us.”

Astrath hummed in understanding and sniffed one of the unlit incense sticks in the tray. “This incense stick, what is it made of? Its smell is… peculiar.”

“They’re tipped with an herb called marrentil. They’re a perfect herb to use as incense. It calms the mind and provides a feeling of comfort. If you’ve never seen it before I imagine it might smell a little odd.”

The dragon gave the stick another sniff of interest. They couldn’t seem to pull their nose away. The smell was so enticing. They made a mental note to definitely check this part of the festival out once it started.

“Anyway, we’re done setting up here,” the druid said. “Come back around sunset to see the place all lit up! Now if you’ll excuse me, I want to get to that feast!”

The druid ran off giddily toward the set up tables with his two companions in tow. Feeling a little more comfortable, Astrath decided to join them.

Every single member of Taverley was present at the table, making Astrath more nervous and uncomfortable than they’d been since leaving Ardougne. They were never the one at the table, but the one watching from afar. And this wasn’t a meeting between the Krawleys and their prospective traders, solemn and full of looks and gestures with meanings mere words could not convey. Here, the people laughed and cheered and clinked their glasses and wished each other well. Animals sat beside their human friends, not owners but friends, and had their own plateful to eat instead of the scraps left behind after their ‘betters’ had eaten, cold scraps of bone and perhaps a few crumbs of bread or vegetable. Even Rojaw got a huge plate all for himself, something the little drakeling roared about with glee.

Once the eating had mostly finished and the chatter had reached a pitch, an older druid stood with his cup raised and asked for silence. The crowd slowly petered their conversations and looked to the man.

“Thank you,” he started. “My, what a bountiful year it has been. Truly, the land has borne more boons than ever. May we pray tonight that this coming year will be just as blessed. The gift of summoning has reached farther now than it ever has, and every passing day I see more of us truly embracing Guthix’s teachings and becoming one with nature. We have lost some friends, yes, but we have also made new ones, some of which I think I can safely say none of us ever thought of making!”

Everyone glanced at Astrath for a moment at that, some chuckling a bit, and raised their glasses to the dragon. The dragon returned the gesture so as not to be rude, but the attention was unwanted. They sank a bit in their chair at the farthest corner of the table as if to shrink away and hide.

The druid continued his speech, but Astrath didn’t hear it, too focused on trying to feel more at ease around all these people, which of course did the exact opposite. They only spoke when spoken to and ate in silence, focusing on the food rather than the company. They hardly noticed the time pass as everyone ate until everyone began to rise to place their dishes in the wash bins. Astrath shot up and hurriedly rushed their and Rojaw’s empty plates over. Finally, something to take their mind off things! A chore always did the trick.

Astrath hefted up a full bin of plates, utensils, and cups, ready to take them to the lake and river for washing, but someone stopped them.

“Dear, what are you doing?” a woman placing her dishes in a bin asked.

“Helping clean,” they said matter of factly. “These are to be washed at the river, correct?”

“Well yes but please do not worry about such things right now. Now is time to socialize and have fun! The washing can wait until later.”

The dragon inwardly grimaced. “Please, as a guest in this town, I feel as though I have not done my part. Allow me.”

Without waiting to hear any argument, Astrath swiftly strode away to the river with a massive bin in hand, ready to have some alone time with the water. As soon as their hands hit the cold river water, they had already begun to zone the noise of the festival out and grow calmer. They closed their eyes, took a few deep breaths, and began to wash the dishes. The methodical scrubbing did indeed prove relaxing, quickly returning to an old routine of washing whatever needed to be at the manor. But after a while, their calm gaze twisted into one of fury. A growl rose in Astrath’s throat and they could not hide the roar and blaze that came after. The cold river water sizzled as dragonfire flared across its flowing surface.

How pathetic were they?! Finding comfort not in the company of others but instead in the solitude of chores and menial labor. This wasn’t enjoyment, this wasn’t life. This was perpetuating a standard they had sought to escape from. They were free to make their own decisions now, and their decision should not be to escape from kindness and familiality to live in the familiar norm of the past.

Astrath rose with one final spit of fire and tossed the clean dish into the clean bin. They were going to enjoy the rest of the day, damn it, even if it killed them! They started to stomp toward the altar where the others were gathering only to realize perhaps it wouldn’t be the best idea to leave the bins of dishes by the riverside. Best return those first.

___________________________________________________________________________

The sun began to set and Taverley met for the final event of the day: a ceremony of wishes and prayers by the altar. Everyone gathered around, much more subdued than before but still cheerful. Astrath missed the beginning of the event, the speech and all that, and had come right as people were making their personal silent wishes. Once everyone had finished, a druid in green robes with a heavy green cape spoke.

“And now we offer our wishes to the sky and pray they may be granted.”

Some of the townsfolk nodded, others raised their hands up, others stood motionless but thoughtful. Astrath thought of a wish as well, one not as vengeful as the wish to enact revenge on the Krawleys. They instead thought of their parents and wished to see them again, safe and sound one day.

The green caped druid turned to the effigy, lit a stick aflame, and torched the effigy atop the altar. The flame consumed the figure in a blaze of glory, and a few druids began to set the incense surrounding it alight. At once, cheering began. People shouted and frolicked and danced around the circle. As the sun fully set, torches blazed and those costumed pulled on masks in the shape of the sun. Once again, the party was at a fever pitch, possibly even louder than before. But this time Astrath wasn’t anxious from the commotion. In fact, they felt calmer than they ever had in their life. Their vision grew slightly hazy, and they found it hard to keep their eyes completely open. A lazy smile graced their face, and dare they say even a few giggles slipped out of their mouth.

Silenthe had finally found the time to see Astrath and smiled at the dragon. “You seem to be in good spirits! I’m glad you found our festival enjoyable.”

Still half-lidded and lazily grinning, Astrath gave a sloppy nod. “Yeah… This is great… I feel so good right now. I love this place.”

The man laughed. “I’m glad! Come now, come! Let’s get a drink.”

A drink? As in alcohol? But that was only for the lords and ladies, not a lowly beast! 

But instead what came out of Astrath’s mouth was an excitedly vulgar “Fuck yeah!”

Silenthe gave a shocked blink. The dragon was always so formally spoken. To hear them swear was quite a shock.

The two grabbed a glass of Astrath couldn’t begin to guess what and gave it a sniff. “Wow that smells like crap!” But they swigged it anyway. It may have smelled and tasted foul, but it made them feel warm and cozy and happy. They chugged the entire glass and grabbed another. Silenthe put a hand on the dragon’s arm.

“Whoa there, friend. Slow down. Have you ever had a drink like this before?”

Astrath shook their head. “Pssh, I’ve only ever served this stuff like a butler. You think I would ever be given something that actually cost money to drink? This foul beverage is fantastic and I would like another!”

The dragon wrenched their arm free and slammed down a second drink. Silenthe stopped them from grabbing a third. It was then the man noticed something.

“Are you alright, Astrath? Your eyes are very red.”

The dragon blinked a few times as if that would change their color. “I feel great, better than I’ve ever felt. I think I’m going to go back to those nice smelly sticks now.”

The dragon stumbled back to the rising smoke of the altar with a giddy smile. Silenthe decided it would be best to make sure Astrath would be alright and followed right behind them.

Once at the altar, Astrath flopped onto the grass and rested their head atop the dais where the incense was burning. They took a huge whiff and relaxed against the flame-heated stone. They closed their eyes with a smile, their head spinning in the best way possible.

“Oh, you must have gotten some of the smoke in your eyes,” Silenthe figured. “You probably shouldn’t stay right next to the fire then before your eyes grow irritated.”

“I couldn’t possibly leave,” the dragon mumbled. “Right here is exactly where I want to be.” Words were getting harder to say, and sounds harder to hear. All they could think about was the delicious smell of sweet smoke rising into their nostrils.

“Perhaps dragons just get drunk very quickly,” Silenthe mumbled, puzzled by their companion’s sudden change in attitude. “Come now, friend, I think you’ve indulged enough for one day. Let’s get you home.”

Astrath groaned sadly in protest but their limbs felt far too heavy to fight back. This wave of relaxation was so strong and sudden they couldn’t find the urge to move an inch, and creeping out of the depths of their mind the threat of sleep was coming. They said and did nothing more as they felt Silenthe pick them up and fell asleep in his arms.

__________________________________________________________________________

The sun shimmered through the window bright and early the next morning. The birds chirped their cheery song so sweetly outside, only broken by the soft sounds of people preparing for the day down below.

It was horrible.

Astrath groaned loudly as they woke in Silenthe’s bed, an oddity in its own right as they normally slept on the floor with blankets and a pillow. But what was just as odd was the splitting headache coursing through their head and the vilely sour feeling in their stomach. Astrath tried to sit up and immediately wished they hadn’t. The world spun and their vision swam and it was most certainly not like the pleasant feeling from last night. They held back a gag and sat at the edge of the bed with their head in their lap.

A few minutes later, Silenthe appeared with a piping hot cup of fresh tea. Astrath could smell something else inside it, but they couldn’t make out what, their senses muddled. Yet another thing to add to the odd list.

“After last night, I thought you might be needing this.” The druid rubbed the dragon’s back and held out the cup of tea. Astrath very slowly lifted their head and took the cup. The first sip already helped cut through the fog in their mind.

“I feel terrible,” they mumbled.

“Well, you did seem to have a bit of fun,” he stifled a laugh. “You drank a bit so I imagine that’s why your head and stomach may be hurting. Drink the tea and we’ll get some food in you.”

Astrath lifted the cup in thanks and took a large swig. Silenthe looked into the dragon’s eyes as they drank, unnerving them more than a bit.

“Sorry, I was just making sure your eyes weren’t still red. They seem to be fine now. It really must have just been the smoke causing irritation.”

“I would hardly call that– what was it, incense? –irritating. I’ve never felt better. It was so calming.”

“Marrentil does have that effect, yes, but not so severely. You passed out at the altar and were quite out of sorts. It was almost like you–.”

Silenthe stopped as a realization hit them. “Hold on, I would like to try something.”

He ran downstairs and returned with one of the incense sticks from last night, as well as a match. “What does this smell like to you?” he asked.

Astrath gave the stick a sniff and ever so subtly in the back of their mind, the headache began to fade. “I can’t describe it. It’s… sweet but sour but also smoky. It’s sharp but also plain. It’s like many smells put together, conflicting but they come together in the end.”

The description raised an eyebrow from the druid. “To me, it smells like almost nothing. Not until it’s burnt, anyway. Now if I set it on fire…”

He lit the match and brought the flame to the tip of the incense. Wisps of smoke wafted through the air, and immediately Astrath’s shoulders untensed and their headache was gone. They breathed in the smell with a small smile. Silenthe took the scene in and once he understood, he couldn’t help but laugh. He doused the incense as he tried and failed to cover his giggles.

Astrath pouted as the incense went out. “What is so comedic?”

“Oh, you, my friend! This little herb seems to have quite a different effect on dragons than it does humans. I wonder if any other herbs do something similar. I would love to test them.” Astrath squinted, wanting an answer. Silenthe waved the stick around excitedly. “You got high, haha! All that incense smoke, it must have overloaded your mind and senses and made you relax so much you fell asleep. It seems marrentil is to dragons as catnip is to cats. Dragon-nip if you will!”

Astrath covered their face in embarrassment. They might not have fully understood what ‘being high’ meant, but they knew from the connotation enough that they had acted foolish in public because of it.

“Your drake friend is eating in the kitchen. I wonder if he would act the same way as you.”

Silenthe deviously trotted downstairs to test his hypothesis. Astrath scrambled out of bed, headache forgotten. 

“Leave him out of this! I don’t need that rascal acting even goofier than usual!”

‘Also you should save it for me!’ their betraying brain screamed.

[bakersstreetirregulars]

Costume Of The Year- Round 2

💫 Whew- that first round went quickly! Did your favorites make it through?

Dark Choco’s Young Prince VS Milk’s Herald of Victory

Fire Spirit’s Lord of Flame VS Sour Belt’s Choc’au Latte F/W Collection

Princess’s Royal Crown VS Cream Puff’s Dark Magic Hat

Alchemist’s Guileful Queen VS General Jujube’s Grand Marshal

Peach’s Garden of Delights VS Shining Glitter’s Superstar Airport Attire

Cheesecake’s Party Royale VS Sea Fairy’s Dread Trident of the Abyss

Mint Choco’s Magnificent Symphony VS Mala Sauce’s Unyielding Rook

Peppermint’s Ballad of the Starry Seas VS Moonlight’s Blissful Full Moon

Adventurer’s Explorer Tyke VS Matcha’s Witherbark Shaman

Roguefort’s Pursuit of Lost Time VS Cocoa’s Enchanted Waltz

Sparkling’s Star Guest VS Squid Ink’s Pirate “Hunter”

Adventurer’s Accidental Host VS Werewolf’s Shadow Lurker

Carol’s Picturesque Performer VS Pink Choco’s Ribbity Water Beam

Marshmallow’s Merry Year’s End March VS Lilac’s Midsummer Bliss

Cinnamon’s Fortuneteller Apprentice VS Purple Yam’s Champion of Valor

Angel’s Voice of Virtue VS Chocolate Bonbon’s A.C.i.D F/W Collection

Grapefruit’s Phenomenal Stuntmaster VS White Choco’s Blazing Knight

Vampire’s Insouciant King VS Beet’s Blooming Chef de Partie

Pancake’s Fluffy Unicorn Jammies VS Popping Candy’s Red Carpet Attire

Wind Archer’s Zephyr of Life VS Whipped Cream’s Night of Reverie

Rockstar’s Epic Year’s End Concert VS DJ’s Megastar

Moonlight’s Alluring Crescent Moon VS Sea Fairy’s Luminous Coral

Cherry’s Water Bomb VS Spinach’s Pouch of Wishes

Moonlight’s Milky Way VS Yogurt Cream’s Midsummer Plentitude

Common- 0

Rare- 0

Epic- 24

Super Epic- 22

Legendary- 2

🪄 A strong start for the Epics and Super Epics, but the Common and Rares just seemed to disappear! Any trace of the Island of Memories has also disappeared! And among the disappearees we have Dark Enchantress’s Chaos Incarnate… uh oh. She’s not going to enjoy that. Three for three losses in round 1 will definitely cause her to seek vengeance- wait. Cream Puff, you mentioned Yam in the example, right?

💫 Y-yes?

🪄 He’s facing me!

💫 There’s not much we can do.

🪄 I know. Let’s see what happens!

[maddeningmuses]

Elhain was happy to have Ember with the apple slices knowing he was trying his best and she reached out gently stroking his warm and fluffy fur before she opened the pouch and offered one of the slices to him, it was really difficult to be upset when you had a ball of cuteness wanting to take care of you.

Elicia was next and she did have a point, maybe he just hadn’t gotten word to her that he hated Elhain yet while he was recovering from her holy symbol though. Ivan was...well surprisingly comforting and she couldn’t help but smile a little at his awkwardness as she shook her head

“There we go much better to see the starry lady smile” Dillon said poking her cheek teasingly Elhain licked his hand and he recoiled

“Gross! what are you five?!”

“Don’t stick your hand in my face and i won’t lick you.” Elhain said sticking her tongue out at him 

When the gift arrived she was still cocooned in her blankets but she was feeling better at the least, it was nice to know her support system worked like this but reading the note she had to sit and wonder for a little bit and she did appreciate the sentiment. Elhain thought for a little while about it before she took the hoop and began using it quickly.

The next Evening Strahd would have a messenger on his door that would deliver a small package of their own, her strahd doll from Blinksy, in a cape that resembled the one that he had given her but the embroidery was little stars and bats all over the collar as well as a note.

Dear Strahd,

I would also like to apologize for my reaction. Dillon put it a good way of knowing something and seeing it being two very different things and while I knew of your nature seeing it firsthand was a shock. I don’t know how much your cousin has told you or Escher, but this is my first adventure from home so something like being kidnapped by druids and then watching them be massacred is definitely not what I was expecting for my first adventure however, I do know that this wasn’t just a monster from stories going out on a spree.

You spared the child. A monster would have seen them as just another means to a way but you were within enough of your mind not to harm them or me. Seeing that and knowing about the threat they placed, while I do not wish to see such carnage again I know that I jumped to a reflex when I hurt you with my holy symbol and I truly am sorry for that. 

I do hope to see you again, I will just take a little bit to get over the shock and a little over myself because I can’t help but feeling like you must hate me for my reaction in treating you like all the others must. So again, I am sorry I do thank you for the gift and hope you enjoy mine in return.

Lady Luciana Elhain Macintosh

Ravenloft Adventure AU || OPEN

Elicia bounded over to Ehlain, “I can’t believe we are actually doing this, that you are actually doing this!” She placed a hand on either side of Ehlain’s face, “your Father would be so proud of you. Going off on an adventure! Away from Myrania and all of this.” She pulled away as a soft pawing at her leg revealed the small fire spirit at her feet. “Aww Ember you’re coming with me.” She scooped up her mischievous little furball. “To think that strange old lady at the market convinced you with that card reading?” She shook her head. “But I will take what I can get.”

[himik0toga]

Todoroki x Reader

~~~~~~~~~~

Okay, okay, just hear me out. What if, in the fantasy AU- we switch shit up? Like instead of Dabi "dying" or, being cast out or cursed, Todoroki is the one to... disappear, or be cast out instead? This story was originally for my friend, but then I thought, "why not post it on tumblr?" So here we are! I'm not sure what the title should be yet, If anyone has any suggestions feel free to tell me :D But until then it's just going to be that title. This is a X reader story, with Shoto Todoroki and a mix of Dabi in there too- mainly todoroki though.

~~~~~~~~~~

The starry night sky glimmers like fairy dust. Harsh winds blow past the walls outside, angel tears pounding down onto the windows. The clap of thunder and a flash of lightning shocks the youngest occupant of the castle with a startle. His shaking, shivering form huddled in the corner as he slaps his hand over his mouth to muffle his small cry for help. Not like anyone would be able to hear him, it’s well past the dead of night.

“Shoto.. I know you’re here somewhere…”

the deep, scratchy chuckle echoes throughout the empty corridors. Frantically looking around, breath hitching with the streams falling down the small boy’s face. His unoccupied hand grips his shirt over his chest, willing desperately for his heart to calm down. Heavy footsteps get closer, the thumping in his ears get louder with the rain pouring harder outside.

Wide eyes look over to the sight next to him, letting out a louder cry. Everything, from the walls, floors, curtains, and flowers. The very world he grew up in slowly starts to decay right in front of him. Gasping when two hands wrap around his throat, squeezing threateningly. Quickly looking up he notices the white hair and bright eyes.

“Found you~...”

Before it goes dark. Hiccuping as he hits a floor harshly, water splashing around him. Shaky eyes look around the new room, mind racing over taking any form of coherent thoughts to form. It’s pitch black, nothing in sight. The water below him feels warm, warily bringing his hand up to his nose. His shaky hands cup his face, screaming out bloody murder in fear.

A smell of a sickening familiar smell fills his senses. From many days and nights since his young age of training, he knows this scent just like his older sister’s touch and soft words. Blood, everywhere. Iron permeated his mind with horrors from his father’s abuse. Standing up on quivering legs like a newborn fawn, his cries echo in this endless room. Bringing both hands to his chest in search of a form of comfort.

His bottom lip trembles when a scarred hand reaches out to grab his neck as before, electric blue eyes coming in view. The manic grin of the male stretches, causing blood to seep through the ruined and healthy skin. 

“Why’re you running from me shoto! Am I that scary to you? Maybe I need to teach you how to respect your elders!” 

The echoes of the male’s laughter surrounds him, not allowing any escape. With a wink the virile man slowly retreats, his gravelly chuckle everywhere. 

“Please! Why are you doing this to me?”

He yells, his feet moving before he could stop himself to run away. A sudden intense heat pulls another yell from him, moving away from the bright red flames. Tripping over what seems to be a root, tumbling down like jack and jill.

The light burns his eyes while laying on his back, whimpering at the stinging and pain from branches and thorny bushes. Helpless, he lays there while watching the blinding sun above of him shine into his eyes. The only bit of comfort being flush green leaves, the soft grass under him, and the birds singing into the atmosphere.

“Hello?”

Silence. Then ringing. the only sound his ears could pick up, loud enough to drown out everything other than that voice. He freezes for a second, breath stopping at the sound of an unfamiliar voice. Yet his body relaxes at the tone of it, so soft and sweet. Surely this… voice, is from an angel sent to him from the heavens to save him from this hell.

Shade covers his vision, looking weakly up at the goddess above him. He can't see her face, though, the sun behind her shading her face. Her hair and surely soft skin glowing, yet unable to see the features of her face.

“Do you need help?”

The worry in her voice is evident with the way she bends down, holding her hand out for him to take. Cautiously he grabs her hand, shivering at the sudden warmth after being left out on his meadow’s floor for seemingly hours. Unable to look her in the eyes, too scared what she’d say about his bandages and mixed eyes, his focus stays on his lap.

“Here, take this”

He can almost hear the sweet smile in her voice, unable to see it. She gently places a small basket on his lap, the weaving of it simple yet enough for it to work. He first picks up the bread, freshly baked and chows down on it, the growling on his stomach loud enough for the little girl to laugh a little.

“You must be really hungry…”

She crouches down, pulling the satchel off her shoulders and grabbing some wraps and medicine.

“This should help with those cuts.”

Stating matter of factly, she gently grabs his arm which was injured during the fall, and places some of the gooey medicine on. The young boy flinches at the sudden touch of cold, yet calms down quickly after. It feels nice against his skin, he decides, and lets her continue. She soon deems it on enough, grabbing the wraps and wrapping them around his arm to make sure the medicine doesn’t wipe off.

“There you go!”

Her sweet voice fills his ears, making a small, soft smile to show on his face. He realizes it’s the first smile he’s had in months, and it warms his heart.

“My name is…”

The sound of her name in his ears creates a ringing sound, he asks her again what it was, or tries to as his voice seems to not be working. He tries again, touching his throat but nothing comes out. His eyes close shit as panic starts to set in, the ringing getting louder and he has to cover his ears to block it out.

Snapping his eyes open he frantically looks around, to notice it’s black out. The sun has settled past the trees, sleeping for the night. The moon has risen high in the sky, casting a blue and beautiful tone to everything. The stars are out again, twinkling in the sky. A fog has spread through the place, causing a chill to run down his spine.

Shivering he stands up, calling out to the seemingly empty place. Silence. The trees look young and beautiful, almost mysterious yet frightening with how the dark envelopes the ones further away. Glancing down he’s taller, has gained more muscle, and wears leather clothing. A teenager. He distantly wonders where he is, bringing his hand up to mess with his lock of hair, smooth and soft to the touch.

Just as he’s about to take a step further, he hears footsteps not from him. His eyes snap towards the direction of the footsteps, bracing himself in case he needs to fight. Yet instead of an enemy or animal, a younger boy around his age walks forward with firewood. He looks up, and smiles brightly at the bi-color haired male. His green hair bouncing as he rushes over.

“Sorry I took so long, todoroki-kun! It took a little longer to find firewood than expected” 

he chuckles nervously, finding a firepit and throwing the wood in it. A brown haired girl follows after, their water pouches once again full of water. Once the wood is lit, it gives the boy, Todoroki, a chance to look around better. The memories of what happened before he got here comes rushing back, now able to think after his nightmarish dream.

“Todoroki-kun! Hurry up!” A cheerful voice ahead of him calls, causing him to glance up at the two in front of him. Izuku Midoriya, is a bit shorter than him yet all the more cheerful. He always has a bright smile on his face, eyes big and filled with wonder at every new plant and animal the three of them come across.

The second friend of his, Uraraka Ochaco, is always just as bright. How brown hair bounces with each step she takes, looking forward to the next part of their adventure. Her eyes are always on Midoriya-kun though, Todoroki has realized. He hasn’t brought it up to her yet but he wonders why she’s always glancing at him.

“Sorry, Uraraka” he says in a monotone voice, walking a bit faster to catch up to his two only friends.

“Don’t be sorry, Todoroki-kun! I just want to make it to the next village soon!” she giggles, looking ahead again once Todoroki is walking besides them.

The three make an excellent team, Midoriya always ready to fight others if they do his friends wrong. Uraraka has her own fighting spirit, knowing some sort of fighting technique from many years of being poor and having to fend off the disgusting people in the world. Then of course the tallest of the three, knowing how to use a sword and ride a horse from his days at the castle.

The three traveled days on end, this time ending in a peaceful place, surrounded with trees before setting up camp. Uraraka set up their places to sleep, Todoroki looking to find some food while Midoriya went to gather camp wood.

After finishing up they enjoy their time telling stories, sometimes scary sometimes of legends. Of course Midoriya spoke about legends the most, always fascinated with both the dark and light of the stories. After having their stomachs full and get tired, they settle down for the night. Todorki is the first to fall asleep, unaware of the other two giggling and going off into the night to have more time together.

Todoroki blinks and nods after noticing Uraraka waving her hand in front of his face, sitting down on the rock he sat on earlier during their story times. Leaning towards the fire he warms up quickly, looking around again. Midoriya and Uraraka are chatting quietly, trying not to disturb Todoroki’s peace too much.

The fire’s light doing little to hide the red on both of their faces, apparently one of them said something embarrassing, both of them being affected by it. He looks to the ground, kicking up some dirt while standing.

“I’m going to head back to sleep”

He says quietly, the two of them looking over and nodding at him before continuing on with their conversation, this time more calmly. Laying down on the make-shit bed of leaves and blankets, he stares up at the sky again.

This time the fire’s smoke and embers swirling into the sky above him. It almost reminds him of the older days where he would sneak out with all three of his siblings, before something happened with the oldest making him turn cold towards everyone. They would dance and laugh around a fire, pretending to be part of that one legend of the fire demon, once creating the magical flame, giving warmth to the humans and the ability to cook meat.

Their father would always get mad at them the next morning after finding out from the tracks of dirt they let in, though the eldest would always protect the other three. Closing his eyes to try and rid of that memory, he falls into yet another slumber, this time staying asleep until the morning and bright blue sky shows again.

[archerinventive]

A huge thank you to @tarendelldesigns for sharing these gorgeous photos of the starry adventure pouch and bracers with me.

Seeing people out questing and having fun with the items I make will always make me so happy.

If you'd like your own set of adventure gear swing by the shop before June 1st at midnight and get 20% off your entire order.

Wishing you all success on your quests this day. 💙

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ArcherInventive

[sosuperawesome]

Starry Adventure Pouch // Archer Inventive

[noire-pandora]

The Night Shift.

Another prompt from this prompt list. Also on my AO3

Soldiers Adrian and Madris meet with the Inquisitor Lavellan at night.

Words:  2682

Warnings: None.Adrian shivered in the chill of the night as he waited in the courtyard for his instructor to appear. Ferelden might be his birthplace, but the cold of Skyhold shocked him. He'd felt the cruel bite of the winters, but never this far and never this deep, but he chose to be here, in the heart of winter. For the first time, he decided what to do with his life, and it looked like the right choice. He had a roof under his head, three hot meals a day and a considerable payment. The payment amazed him. At first, he thought the rumours of the Inquisitor's generosity were just rumours. He never expected it when he signed the papers to join the Inquisition. And to top it all, his superiors seemed friendly enough, and no one yelled at him until now.   

"Here you are, soldier," a voice boomed behind him, and he almost yelped. He turned around and saw a tall, well-built elf, smiling at him with a spotless armour. Blue eyes shined in the dark, studying him, and Adrian straightened his back, eager to impress the man. 

"My name is Madris, and I am here to instruct you on how to be a proper soldier for the Inquisition," he said, holding out his hand to shake Adrian's. As they shook hands, Adrian felt the calluses built upon the man's skin over the years of hard work. Instantly, he understood why the Inquisitor trusted the elf with the new soldiers. 

"I am Adrian," he answered. "Thank you for letting me work here. I am grateful." 

"I'm not the one to thank, kid. The Inquisitor is the one who accepts the new soldiers. She read your papers and found you fit for the army. I'm here to teach you. Let's take a walk around, and I'll show you the main buildings. You might already know some of them." 

They strolled around Skyhold, and Madris told Adrian everything to know about every location and who frequented them. Adrian struggled to remember all the facts.  He had no idea who Iron Bull and Leliana are. At least, not yet.

 "Things are calmer for the night watch," Madris continued, as they made their way to the battlements. People sleep, and guests don't come at night. That being said, it doesn't mean the nights are boring. Sometimes, the Inquisitor and her party arrive late at night after a mission. You have to pay attention to that and call the healers, in case the party needs one."

The Inquisitor! Adrian heard many rumours about her and her adventures. He wondered if one day he'd get the chance to see her from afar. 

"Your job is to pay attention. After the attack on Haven, the Inquisitor and the Commander have been adamant about this. They need watchful eyes everywhere, eyes that can see and assess any danger in a few seconds. Do you think you can do that, kid?"

"Yes, ser!"

Adrian's confidence grew as he heard those words. He had worked as a fisherman since the age of fourteen. He spent hours and hours staring at the water, his mind in total concentration. He doubted, looking over a yard could be worse than fishing.

"If you see anything suspicious, no matter how small it may look, you have to report it to your shift supervisor even if you might be wrong. Better to apologize than die by the hand of the enemy. Understood?"

"Yes, ser!"

Madris abruptly stopped and looked again at Adrian. "You know, kid, you can say something else, I'm not going to eat you."

"I-I'm sorry, ser," Adrian stuttered. "I'm still getting the hang of things."

"It's all right. I don't blame you. Being a part of the Inquisition's army might be a bit overwhelming, but things aren't that scary. Relax, take a deep breath in. No one is going to judge or hurt you. You aren't working for a mad noble who might slap you at any moment. The Inquisitor threatened us not to use any punishment methods with our recruits. A pity, if you ask me, a good beating always helped. But then again, what she doesn't know……"

Adrian's eyes widened with fear, and Madris laughed. "You should have seen your face, kid, hilarious. I'd never do that. I don't want to infuriate the Herald. She can be scary when she gets mad. As long as you do your work diligently, no one will bother you." 

Adrian gave an awkward smile and rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment. He almost believed the elf, and he felt like a fool for falling for it. But his worries faded away as he saw the view from the battlements. Everywhere he looked, snow blanketed the magnificent mountains. The light shining from the stars and the moon covered the surroundings into a gentle, mysterious light, and he gasped, his soul moved by the infinity of the mountains which seemed to be touching the sky. 

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Madris whispered. "I've been here for six months, but I'll never get tired of the view."

They stood in silence for a few minutes, watching the starry night and the mountains. Adrian slowly turned around to take in every corner of nature, afraid he might miss a part of its beauty. Suddenly, a creaking broke the silence, and a faint light caught his attention. A door opened in the courtyard and he leaned on the battlements railing to take a better look at the mysterious night guest: a person crossed the yard, wandering with unhurried steps and stopped from time to time.

"Who's that?" he inquired.

"That's the Inquisitor," Madris answered, following him to glance at the person below them. 

"The Inquisitor? At this late hour? Why?" 

"I don't know," Madris shrugged. "She does that from time to time. Popping around at odd times, talking aloud and practising speeches. Sometimes she sits on a rock and draws."

Adrian hummed as he continued to watch the Inquisitor. He could see her perfectly as the full moon shone its light above Skyhold. With a pouch on her shoulder, she looked around, as if searching for something. When her eyes reached their location, she smiled and waved at them. Adrian crouched down behind the stone wall, terrified by the sudden attention.

"It's polite to answer back when someone is waving at you, kid. Especially the Inquisitor," Madris said, his smile never wavering. 

In the few seconds it took Adrian to get back on his feet, the Inquisitor disappeared. He looked around, but he could not spot her. He sighed. He made a fool of himself in front of his instructor and the Inquisitor. 

Madris patted him on the back and grinned. "It's all right, kid. She won't mind it. She's a kind lady."

"How's she like?" Adrian whispered, disappointment in his voice. 

"Hmmm, how's she like?" Madris repeated, a frown knitting his eyebrows. He rubbed his chin, clearly deep in thought. "I don't even know how to begin. She's something else. You have to meet her to understand her but--" he stopped, his hand leaving his face, and he turned to look at someone behind Adrian. His posture hardened from a relaxed stance to a soldier like stance: back straight, hands behind his back, chin up, chest out, shoulders back. 

Adrian turned to see the Inquisitor approaching them, a smile on her lips, the satchel hitting her hip as she stepped. He panicked, unsure if he should mimic his instructor. Before he could react, the Inquisitor stopped next to them. Her smile turned into a smirk. 

"Really, Madris? Still doing that after six months? I told you already; you don't have to do...that," she said, waving a hand at him. "Just relax, I'm not going to order you around." 

Madris relaxed, his shoulders dropped, and he rubbed the back of his neck, a small blush staining his cheeks. "Sorry, old habits die hard. My old commander kicked me in the shins every time I forgot to adopt the correct position." 

Elluin rolled her eyes and sighed. "Well, I'm not a power-thirsty old man. Or you're still unsure of that?" 

Madris smirked at her remark. "I'm a bit unsure about the old man part, Inquisitor." 

Adrian's eyes widened at his comment, fearing for the well being of the man, but the Inquisitor just laughed, lightly slapping the elf's shoulder. He blinked a few times, unsure if he should say something.  

"And who might you be?" the Inquisitor asked Adrian. "New soldier?"

Before Adrian could answer, Madris jumped in, his hand grabbing his shoulders and pushing him in front of the Inquisitor. "Yes, this is Adrian. Smart lad, you're going to like him. Adrian, say hello to your boss." 

"N-nice to meet you," he stammered, his mind still working to catch up with the events.  

"You joined three days ago, right?" Elluin asked Adrian.

"Yes, ser."

"Ah, I wish I've been there to greet you, but the meeting with the nobles dragged on, and I couldn't leave. I hope Cullen -the Commander- explained everything to you." 

"Yes, sir." 

Elluin's eyebrows rose. "I know my title sounds daunting, but I'm not that different from you and Madris here. I'm not going to yell at you and order you around." She turned to face Madris. "I can't believe I have to say this to every recruit. I should wear a placard on my back with  `I won't bite you, I promise` written of it." 

A snort escaped Adrian's lips, and he saw the Inquisitor's smile growing wider at his reaction. Still, being in the company of the Inquisitor left him speechless. 

"How old are you, Adrian?" Elluin spoke again, facing him again. "You look quite young." 

"I'm twenty years old, ser." 

"Twenty?" she exclaimed. "Do your parents know you are here, working for us?" 

"No, sir" he whispered.

"I understand running away from home to join a military organization and save the world might sound exciting, but you should let them know. I am sure they are terrified and miss you,", she said in a harsh, scolding tone.

"They are dead, ser." 

A brief pause followed before Elluin spoke again, the harshness completely disappearing from her voice. "I'm sorry, I didn't know. What happened?"

"It's all right, ser, no harm done. They died ten years ago, in the Blight. The Darkspawns attacked us. My father died, fighting the monsters, and my mother died slowly, infected by their bad blood. I escaped with grandma. She passed a month ago, of old age. I am all alone and decided to join you, make a fair coin, maybe help around a bit." 

Adrian had no idea why he poured his heart out to a stranger, but something in the Inquisitor's eyes made him feel safe enough to tell her everything. He waited as the woman in front of him examined him, her forest green like eyes scanned him as if to read his soul. His eyes avoided her stare, his fingers playing with the material of his sleeve. 

"I lost someone in the Bligh too," she finally said. "My adoptive father. He taught me everything there is to know about the world. The Darkspawns got to him."

"I am sorry, ser." He finally dared to look in her eyes. There he saw sorrow, the same pain he saw in his eyes when his reflection in the mirror stared back at him. "It never gets easier, "he found himself speaking. "They say it gets easier as time passes, that the pain fades, but it never does. Isn't, ser?"

The Inquisitors nodded. "It never does."

Adrian awkwardly smiled at her, and she answered back with a deep sigh. Silence shrouded them as the Inquisitor stared at the sky, and he wondered what her Elven eyes saw there. 

"Can I sketch you?" she abruptly asked, looking back at him. 

"S-sketch me?" he asked, baffled by the sudden change in subject.

"Yes! I went out tonight to sketch, but I didn't find anything interesting. You don't have to say yes if you don't want to. I won't mind it at all." 

"No one ever asked to sketch me until now. Sure, Inquisitor." 

"Thanks!"

Adrian watched her as she rummaged in her satchel, struggling to reach for something in there. A few items rattled loudly, and he wondered what she hid in there. With an "aha" she took out a sketchbook and a few pieces of charcoal. She sat on the cold ground, her legs tucked under her, and opened the small sketchbook. He watched her alarmed, once again, not knowing what he should do. 

His confusion must have been evident, for the Inquisitor nodded and gestured towards him. "You don't have to do anything special. I'll sketch you quickly; it won't take long."

Andrian nodded and awkwardly waited, uncertain what to do with himself or with his hands. He decided to put them behind his back. He looked around, careful not to stare at the Inquisitor, but the sound of the charcoal rubbing on the page grabbed his attention. Her nimble fingers moved with an elegance and a speed he never saw until now. He watched, fascinated how his face, albeit upside down, took form: his oval face first, his small neck, then eyes, nose, lips and his hair. It took her only five minutes to capture his features on paper. 

"I'm done for now. This is just the basic stuff I can do fast, don't want to keep you. But I can work on it today, use a bit of colour too. And I can make two of them, one for you too if you want," she explained, as she removed a strand of hair from her eyes, her fingers leaving a trace of charcoal on her forehead and Adrian had to suppress a giggle. 

"Thank you, Inquisitor. I'd like a copy of it." 

"Hey, that's not fair!" Madris spoke again. Adrian almost jumped; his sudden intervention startling him. He almost forgot about the instructor. 

"You never did my portrait! Don't I deserve one?" 

Elluin chuckled, and she flipped the page of her sketchbook. "You never asked for one. Stay put; I'll make one for you right now."

Adrian watched again, fascinated by how a few lines and circles can transform into the face of a man. He never had the chance to watch an artist at work until now, and he found the process mesmerizing. He wondered if he could learn how to do that.

"Here," the Inquisitor said after another five minutes. 

Madrid got closer to her to look at the sketch, and he smirked. "Oh, you made me handsome." 

"I only draw what I see." 

Madris snorted, and he held out his hand to help her get up. Elluin put her sketchbook back in her bag before reaching for his hand. Her back popped a few times, but she ignored it. 

"Thanks for letting me sketch you, both of you. I'll come back tomorrow night and give you the complete drawing. I should go now before I get scolded for not sleeping. Again. See you tomorrow." 

She waved again and left in a hurry, her hair fluttering in the wind.  Adrian wondered who dared to scold the Inquisitor. 

"Well, she's something, huh?" Madris asked Adrian. "Meeting her is always a new experience. Told you she isn't that scary."

"She's strange," Adrian replied before thinking. "I mean, not in a bad way! Just….I never expected that from the Inquisitor. I've heard tales of her fighting a dragon and a god." 

"Those tales are true, kid. I saw that with my own two eyes. But just because someone can fight a dragon, it doesn't mean they have to be assholes."

"I suppose so." 

"So, are you going to come back tomorrow night, recruit Adrian?" Madris asked him, examining him thoughtfully. 

Adrian nodded and smiled nervously at him. "Yes, ser. I will."

Finally, he found a purpose in life, a good cause to fight for: a new home and a leader who deserves respect.

[prompt-master]

It's Snooping Time

Makoto had the nosiest little sister. He had to shoo her out of his room all the time to keep her from getting her grubby little hands all over his things. He couldn't even begin to count the amount of manga Komaru just straight up stole from him. Not to mention that she even went so far as to snoop through his mail and open his Hope's Peak Acceptance letter while he was out.

He'd made sure to rid his room of anything he didn't want her taking before he left for Hope's Peak. It was the only precaution he could make with even a chance of working. It was such a strange feeling moving into his dorm and not having to worry about Komaru checking every nook and cranny when he turned his back. It was relaxing, honestly. He did miss his sister, and he loved her dearly! But he didn't love some of the crap she pulled.

But that's alright, because now Makoto had a chance to catch up and remind himself of all the things he loved and hated about Komaru. After the Ultimate Pharmacist accidentally caused a risky chemical spill that managed to leak to the dorms through the vents, everyone had been given a week off campus!

He'd been having the time of his life attending as an Ultimate. All his new friends were so lively and made him excited to face each day. He treasured every bond he'd made over the course of the year. It was a bit overwhelming at times being surrounded by the most talented eccentric individuals Hope's Peak's scouters could find, and walking into his quaint little home only reminded him of how average he really was compared to everyone else in the school. He somehow managed to be more average than other raffle winners.

"I'm home-"

"Makoto!"

His mother pulled him into a quick unexpected hug.

"Ack- mom-!"

"Aw, Makoto we missed you! I've never been away from you from so long, you're growing up!" Her arms curled around his back, pulling him in tighter and tighter. One hand ruffled his hair from the back, the other lay on his shoulder.

"I missed you too mom" Makoto laughed, embarrassed as his mom planted a kiss on his head, "but can you please let go? You're crushing me."

"Makoto!" Another voice cried out and Makoto held his chest, recovering from the previous hug.

"Hi Komar- oof!"

She gave him a heavy slap on the back before another hearty hug, giving him a mouthful of hair. He could feel her usual energetic excitement, she pulled off of him quickly, hands on his shoulders and starry eyes wide, "How was it?! Are the students as weird as the internet says?! Do you have any hot upperclassmen?! You go to school with your stupid idol crush now don't you?!"

Just about a year ago all this energy would have left Makoto dizzy and tired, now he considered it low energy compared to the intensity of everyday life around the Ultimates.

Makoto laughed, a soft sweet sound. Home sweet home, after all. He did have much he wanted to tell his sister. She was going to freak out when she found out Yamada Hifumi, the author of her favorite doujin, was in his class. "Calm down Komaru, I just got home."

"Geez," she said, tone light and teasing, "you go to an elite school and come back like you went on a life changing journey! Where's my brother who gets annoyed at all my questions, huh?"

"Give your brother a break, Komaru." Their dad joined the scene, clapping a hand onto Makoto's shoulder. "You'll have plenty of time over the week to hear about all his adventures."

"You just want to hear about it too, dad."

"Guilty as charged." their dad put up his hands in admission, chuckling softly.

"You should get settled in," when his mother smiled, she had little crinkles around her eyes. It was such a small detail but he missed seeing such a genuine joy on someone's face, "we won't have as much to tell you as you will us though."

"That's ok mom!"

Makoto found himself relaxing. Even though he'd been away from home for so long he fit right back in like he always belonged here. After an awkward wave he left down the hall to get into his room. On his way there, an unfamiliar glint of light from the living room wall caught his eye, causing him to look up. There was a new frame up on the wall. More of Komaru's art, maybe? 

He came closer to the simple black frame, seated in a spot that was rather obvious. Like his parents wanted all visitors to see this particular frame. From a distance it looked mostly white and blank. He got close enough to make out the little black text that simply and quickly announced Makoto's acceptance into the school of a lifetime. 

Makoto smiled. They framed his acceptance letter. He was really happy to be home. He felt loved before he left, but now he felt adored. 

As he pushed open the door to his room and dropped his bags to the floor he briefly wondered how different things would be after starting out a new path in his life. But once he sat down on his bed he felt like he'd never really left. He was excited to have dinner with his family again, but he also has text messages from his new friends to look forward to! 

The problem was Makoto got too relaxed. He was used to sleeping in a cozy locked dorm where everyone only bothered to knock in order to ask him to hang out elsewhere. So when Makoto went to dinner he left his backpack free for the picking on the floor of his bedroom. 

And of course, Komaru wasted no time poking her head into said room. How could she not?! Her brother is getting a once in a lifetime opportunity! No, not even that, most lives don't get to experience even a taste of what Makoto gets to indulge in. How could she not want to know more?! A quick inspection of the bags he brought over showed pretty much only clothes and a teddy bear wearing the Hope's Peak emblem on its shirt. 

And then she turned her attention towards his backpack. Maybe she'd find some embarrassing doodles in his notebooks, Makoto did have a tendency to scribble when lectures bored him. She zipped open the bag, bouncing up and down in anticipation as to what she might discover. 

Ugh, boring. Why did Makoto only have a bunch of school supplies in his backp- oh. Well actually, that did make sense. Even though Makoto was accepted into the school unconditionally it seemed he still wanted to prove himself. 

Well, average grades. It's certainly not exceptional but...he is trying. 

Feeling a bit dejected at the lack of juicy information, she opened the front pocket of his backpack with much less vigor than prior. Then she paused.

Oh my, oh my, oh my. What do we have here? 

Within the pocket were several small envelopes each sealed with a well placed red heart sticker.

Confession Letters. 

Naegi Makoto had confession letters. 

There was NO WAY anything in this world could keep Komaru from digging further. She quickly took one of the letters into her hand and inspected it. 

"Maizono Sayaka" 

She gasped, it was the idol crush! That was definitely Makoto's handwriting, it was always a bit distinctly messy. No doubt in her mind that her brother wrote these. 

She looked back into the bag, where so many envelopes lay in waiting for the day someone would open them. She felt herself building up an uncontained excitement. Was Makoto so enamored with Miss Maizono Sayaka that he had to write several drafts of his confession? She could totally imagine Makoto about to hand over his letter before going red in the face and sprinting away in panic. 

She wondered if she could open up some of these without getting caught, she desperately wanted to read the embarrassing contents. She picked another letter from the back of the pouch and turned it over. 

"Kirigiri Kyoko" 

Her amusement grew three sizes. She was trying hard not to laugh, her brother was crushing on two girls who were most certainly out of his league? What did he think he was, an anime protagonist? 

She picked up another, buzzing with excitement. 

"Togami Byakuya"

Her eyes almost popped out of her head at that one. Togami Byakuya? Wait… Togami? Like THAT Togami? Togami Corporation? Wait- a BOY? 

No way. No fucking way. She totally called it. But to think that Makoto wasn't just crushing on a TOGAMI but was writing letters hoping to confess. The image of her average joe brother handing, not just a random someone but a TOGAMI, a handwritten letter made her giggle.

She continued to pick through the letters. He certainly had a thing for Kyoko and Byakuya as there were SEVERAL versions of those letters. There were a few more for Sayaka, and a few singles for others such as someone named Asahina Aoi, and someone named Ikusaba Mukuro.

Was Makoto just falling in love with anyone who so much as looked at him? 

She needed so desperately to know more. She was trying hard not to sputter with laughter at the assortment of letters now in her lap. Makoto didn't just think he was an anime protagonist he seemed like he thought he was a harem protagonist. 

The door opened up, leaving Komaru without even a single moment to put everything back. 

"Komaru, you know I don't like you in my-..." Makoto's slightly annoyed tone cut off as he processed the sight in front of him. 

Komaru. His sister. With all his very personal letters in her grasp. 

Makoto quickly sprung into action. "Ack! No! No stop that! Why are you going through my bag!?" He dropped to his knees, sliding on the wooden floor and scrambling to rip all the letters away from her. 

She held on tight to one of them, it was one of Byakuya's letters. Her face was smug, knowing all too well she was about to bring the motherfucking gavel down on him. 

"Komaru let go!" Makoto whined trying to snag Komaru’s prize for snooping.

"I- ppftt - I can't believe you wanted to date like half your class!" Komaru disregarded her brother's pitiful plee and kept the letter just out of his reach. Her brother's face was beet red as he glared at her.

"H-hey it's not HALF!" Komaru continued to laugh at him, unable to even get a sentence out between her wheezes. Makoto picked up a pillow from his bed and threw it at her face. 

She rolled back with the impact, hopping up onto her feet and balancing on her heels. She held the letter high above her head. 

"I never thought you'd be the type to write CONFESSION LETTERS!" 

Makoto felt panic rushing through his very veins, "its not…!" He couldn't even do much but stay on the ground desperately trying to think of a way out of this situation "They aren't confession letters!! I dont have crushes on all of them now give it back!" 

His face, all the way to his ears, had gone so bright red you could make a paint swatch out of it.  

Komaru's amusement somehow grew worse at his words. She stood tall over him, her smile reminiscent of a cruel villain from an shounen anime. "All of them?" She said. 

Her face hurt from being unable to stop smiling, "All of them?! You have crushes on all of them at the same time?!" 

"No…!" 

"Oh my GOD I thought you just kept switching crushes because you're sensitive! Not piled them up!" 

"I didn’t-!" 

"What was the plan here Makoto?!" 

"I don't know! There is none!" 

"Oh my God I have to read one." 

"No!" 

That got Makoto back into action, jumping up to once again try to tear the letter by force out of his sister's hands. She retaliated by licking his hand when it came near her face. 

"Gross! Komaru!" 

"Makoto please you need to tell me. You're seriously going after a TOGAMI?" 

She was pretty sure if Makoto blushed anymore he'd pass out from a head rush. 

"Tell me what you like about him" she said "or I'll tear this bad boy open!" 

"Honestly, I'm not too sure either…" Makoto had far more memories of Byakuya insulting him for being an 'optimistic commoner idiot' than he did memories of him being nice. 

Komaru flopped back, throwing herself down onto Makoto's bed hard enough that she got a bit of airtime. "You go to an elite school and now you think all these Ultimates are in your league!" She propped herself up on one arm "I mean, I expected this for Maizono, but I always thought you were more modest than this Makoto. You should know the harem comes to YOU, not the other way around!" 

Makoto's voice reached a pitch that she thought should be impossible, "I don't want a harem!" 

Completely sitting up on his bed now, waving the letter in her hand mockingly, she said "No? Trying to pick one lucky fella then?" 

"How am I supposed to choose?!" 

"No way you actually are. Pffftt…! You're in some deep shit Makoto!"

"It's not my fault..! I mean...they're all so amazing! Maizono-san and I became good friends right away...and when she told me she remembered me from middle school I was a goner…! 

And then Kirigiri-san trusts me - ME Komaru! - to help her on investigations. And- and sometimes she gets this adorable pout when I spend time with other friends for too long. And when she smiles at me...it's so rare but she has the prettiest smile...anyone would be lucky to have her! 

And oh no, Togami-kun. He seems almost like he hates hanging out with me, but then he gets upset when I seem disinterested. He tells me all these personal details about his life as if he wants me to be closer to him. How can I not look into that! 

All these people are messing with my head!" 

"Woah woah lover boy calm down!" 

Makoto panted, having to catch his breath after blurting out such a very personal speech about his feelings. Realizing just how embarrassing that entire thing was, he zippered his hood up all the way so that Komaru had no chance of seeing his embarrassment. He dropped himself back down so that he was sitting on the floor, reflecting on all the actions and words he picked to get him in this situation. Maybe if he just sat quietly he would actually disappear.

"Aren't you the older one here?" 

"Shut up…" 

"You always did have a soft heart, you fell for Maizono-san just from talking to her once! And now you've got all these guys to worry about" 

"I don't know what to do…" Makoto mumbled, "I'm lucky enough to be friends with them." 

"You really like all of them, huh?"

Makoto nodded, unzipping his hoodie just a smidge, enough so that his eye peeked out, "every chance I get to spend time with them feels really special"

Komaru, still sitting down on Makoto's bed, leaned her head back against the back wall. A much softer smile graced her face, it was a small little thing but Makoto understood the meaning. Komaru thumbled the envelope in her hands, then placed it by her side. 

"You're just...you're kinda amazing, Makoto." 

"Huh?" Makoto didn't understand that at all, he wasn't anything special at all! He only got lucky, otherwise he was the most average guy in Japan. He unzipped his hoodie all the way, embarrassment forgotten in his confusion.

"I mean look at you!" She lifted her head back up, gesturing wildly to all of Makoto, "you're out there, making friends with the most amazing people in the world just by being yourself! I mean...what is up with that?!"

Makoto smiled, "They are the most amazing people, huh?" 

"You've always been pretty good at making friends-" 

"So are you though!" 

"-but I never thought you'd be this good! You're going places! You're making connections!" Her excitement and gestures began to slowly lose steam as she spoke. Her movements more sluggish and heavy, her smile going away. 

"And I'm still gonna be here. Just a normal girl." 

Well...that made sense. Makoto felt exactly the same. He and his sister may be rather different, but they were also incredibly similar. They were both optimistic, friendly, they both saw the good in a lot of people, but they also both felt like they were painfully average. Makoto lifted himself off the ground and joined Komaru on the bed, sitting next to her. He knew that just telling her she was special wouldn't help much, he'd experienced people telling him that over and over and he still felt like he cheated his way into being "special".  

After a pause, Makoto said, "you know...I know a few Ultimates I think you'd make good friends with…" 

Komaru looked up at that, "Wait, really?" 

"Yeah! You'd get along great with Maizono-san, Enoshima-san-" 

Komaru gasped, "Enoshima? Like Enoshima Junko?" 

"Uh, yeah!" 

"She's a total BABE Makoto where's her letter!" 

Makoto laughed, she sure cheered up fast, "Maybe you can write it after you talk to her for a bit." 

"You really think she'd talk to me? I'm not an Ultimate." 

"Sure! If she can talk to me, she'll get along just fine with you! Ah but...careful...she can be kind of intense on pranks…"

"She sounds great!"

"And that's not all! There's also people you already know! You've read Yamada-san's fan books and one of Fukawa-san's novels!" 

"You know them?!" 

"You don't need to be in Hope's Peak and you don't need to be special to go places, I think you're fine as you are!"

Komaru's shoulders lifted and she curled in on herself, a genuine grateful look on her face, "thanks Makoto...you're a good brother" 

"Any time, Komaru." He smiled sweetly, "now give me my letter back." 

[unlockthelore]

A Request

When seeking a reprieve from the weight on his shoulders, Aether chooses to fly. But someone is always there to bring him back. This is part of the Where The Soul Lies Down series on Ao3. For more fics in this series, follow the where the soul lies down tag on this blog.

Ragged wisps of clouds clung to mountain peeks from neighboring isles. Their bluffs etched in sun glow reminded Aether of the guards lighting lanterns along the village’s winding roads. He’d flown overhead, only slightly weighed down by the book clasped tightly to his chest, and sore wings flapping against a warm, stiff breeze. Air rushed up to meet him. Wind currents keeping him afloat til just outside the city’s outskirts. When he looked back, the once dimly-lit huts were aglow. The local’s chattering pursuing him as he rushed into the forest, taking the trails marked by trees with a five-pointed flower engraved on their bark.

To where would it lead him, Aether was certain. He ran despite his feet’s protest as they stumbled over roots and kicked through the undergrowth. He tumbled forward when a loose vine jilted him backward with a snag on his right wing. A groan hissed between his teeth as he snatched the vine free, brushing his fingers over the amber canvases soothingly.

His feathers ached as he retracted his wings quickly, wincing at the soreness. Perhaps it wasn’t a good idea to fly with something so heavy. Although, if he’d gone on foot then there was no telling if he would have been caught leaving or not.

Tipping his head back while rubbing at the tender flesh at his shoulder blades, Aether gaped in disbelief. The once blue-green sky was violet-tinged, its depths glimmering with stars, and warning that his time would run out if he didn’t hurry.

So, he ran.

Away from his thoughts and the hustle and bustle of the bazaar. Merchants, artisans, and couriers exchanging wares and information alike were pushed to the reaches of his mind while he urged his body to move as quickly as it could. His forearms ached as he hugged the book so tightly it might have flattened against his chest. Pain scratched at his throat and tears sprang to his eyes as his lungs begged for air. Their pleas denied until he’d broken free from the underbrush, leaves sticking out of bangs fallen over his eyes.

Gasping for air and staggering forward on quivering legs, he careened forward and dropped to the wooden planks of the landing pier with a dull thud. Aether laid there for a long while, his eyes half-lidded and exhaustion creeping upon the edges of his sight. His hold on the book loosened for half a second. It wouldn’t have done anyone harm if he laid here for a while, he told himself. Surely enough, he would be able to rest and the intrusive thoughts rattling between his ears would settle.

His cheek pressed against the warm planks, rough and itching as he dragged his head to one side, grimacing at the wood’s grit and pinches. That was a silly thing to think. After all, if it were that simple then he could have stayed in the village with his sister and avoided running himself into the ground. Almost literally.

Aether drew himself up painstakingly slow, the book tucked in the crook of his arm as he settled with his legs tucked beneath him. The world twisted and churned around him, darkness crept along the edges of his vision and blurred his sight. His head swayed forward as he sighed and toppled backward in the soft, damp grass. Drops of water arose from where he laid, splattering against his cheeks and his arm, the excess wetting his back through the thin fabric of his tunic. Cool and refreshing against his skin albeit making it far more difficult to stay awake.

His eyes struggled to remain open but darkness engulfed the starry dusk sky and pulled him into echoes of memories.

An artificer with hair as red as the runic wand she’d been tending to smiled widely, streaks of dust smeared across bulging cheeks nearly coating her long eyelashes. She’d practically lit up the room - both literally and figuratively - from the sparks coming off the wand. Her bounding steps coming to a stop before them and out the corner of his eye, Aether could recall someone else was there with him but his attention was taken by the woman’s chipper, pitched voice: Well, it isn’t everyday you see sisters working together.

Aether shivered and bit the inside of his lip, dread pooling in his chest as the woman reached out. Her image rippled and dispersed in shards across his mind’s eyes. Replaced by another of an elderly man hobbling across the busy road with one hand set firmly upon Aether’s shoulder. He could recall the gnarled wrinkles in his fingers and his nails pressing down like a falcon’s talons. Yet, the man’s eyes were gentle and he weaved wonderful tales of his childhood adventures in comparison to those of his family.

You remind me of my granddaughter.

Aether tried to take it as a compliment. Apparently, his granddaughter had intelligence to match her bravery and willingness to listen to the ramblings of an old man. When he laughed at his doddery, Aether tried to laugh along but his chest felt tight and he bid the old man farewell before rushing off to the inn where he and his sister were staying. Lumine hadn’t been there at the time. Likely speaking to the owners to receive their pay for their courier-work. She’d return with a pouch full of coins then they would argue about what to eat for the night. An argument ending in several ‘one-more-time’ rounds of rock-paper-scissors before they split their reward and their food before turning in for the night.

Ordinarily, that is what would happen.

Today though, Aether snagged one of the books from the foot of their shared bed and climbed through the window just as he’d entered. Sparing a longing glance over his shoulder at their temporary residence, Aether quietly hoped Lumine would appear through the door to ask him where he was going or come with him. When neither happened, he leapt out into the dusk in hopes of finding his own peace somewhere on the isle.

Aether rubbed at his eyes and shook his head back to the present. He hardly noticed when the sun shone its last, and the sky darkened, clouds barely visible against the deep blue. Aether lifted his head to stare down his nose at the pier’s ledge then sighed. He’d barely made it to the ledge when his strength had given out. So much for the endurance training he’d been going through. Now, he’d have to try and summon the energy to return. His only hope was that Lumine wouldn’t be upset with him.

The strength to keep his head upright waned and he toppled backward to lie against the grass once more. His eyelids dipped, gaze barely missing the twins suns ascending as he flattened himself against the ground. “Wha— woah!” Aether lurched upright, narrowly missing colliding with the person looming over him as he struggled to an upright position. The book toppled off his lap and landed on the grass with a wet thump. A soft sigh met his ears and he twisted around, kneeling in the dirt. Lumine, lifting the book to her stomach and brushing off its dirtied cover, looked to him with furrowed brows and unsmiling lips.

“I was wondering where you ran off to.”

Aether winced, rubbing the back of his head. Those words were said with such concern that it felt like a blow across his neck. “Sorry,” he murmured to the grass. After a beat of silence, he peeked up at her to see her staring down at him worriedly. Her eyes gleamed in the moonlight and softened when their gaze met. What was his expression, he wondered, for her to seem so concerned.

Lumine sank down to her knees and touched the soaked sleeve of his tunic, pressing water from it as she rubbed the fabric between her fingers. Aether thought to warn her that she’d dirty her trousers but from the furrow in her brows and her pinched lips, Lumine wouldn’t have heard him anyway.

Silence. Tension. Even the air was oppressive, and he wondered what he could do to make his twin smile rather than fret over him.

“Did you check everywhere..?” He mustered a smile and dropped his hand to his bent knees when she glanced up at him. “When you were looking for me.”

Lumine regarded him quietly as if she were determining whether or not to answer him. Then, she smiled and for a moment Aether felt everything was right with the world. She shuffled up to her feet and tucked the book in the crook of her arm. Her free hand extended to him, fingertips wet and soft as a flower’s petals as he grasped them to pull himself up.

“Didn’t have to,” said Lumine, her fingers squeezing his aching ones then loosening their hold. She wasn’t letting go of his hand and he was wise enough to know not to pull away. Nor did he want to. “I know where you go when you’re thinking.”

Aether snorted at that. He highly doubted it. They were together often on their travels but he went off on his own occasionally to find interesting spots. Although, he did tend to share them with Lumine when his curiosity got the better of him.

Huffing, Aether said, “No way. You just got lucky.”

“I know you.”

Lumine leveled a flat stare at him. Aether had seen it plenty of times mirrored on his own face, and while he wanted to laugh, echoes of voices from earlier spiked a wave of disgust down his spine. He pressed his lips together defiantly and slipped his hand free of Lumine’s. Her mouth fell open and the look of concern had returned but he turned away before his mind could dwell on it.

Wooden planks creaked beneath his soles. Suffocating, isolating pressure biding in his chest until it stole even the wind’s solace from him. It wasn’t until the toes of his boots reached the pier’s ledge that he stopped walking. The way forward was nowhere. He couldn’t leave unless he flourished his wings and left his sister behind.

His sister.

Lumine had been remarkably quiet while Aether walked on. His thoughts combined with the pressure in his chest clogged his chest, leaving room for little else. Aether swallowed his apprehension and peered over his shoulder. At the other end of the pier stood his sister, an almost ghostly figure against the deep shadows lingering over the wood. The book held close to her body and her eyes refused to leave his own.

Had she been staring at him the entire time?

Aether wondered what he could say to explain how he felt. How he wished his sister knew everything so he could feel silly for running from her side. For all of his cleverness and curiosities, answers eluded him in droves and silence reigned between them. Guilt gnawed at his heart as Lumine’s gaze lowered and her eyes shuttered, shoulders curving inward and head bowed. It wasn’t right.

Although, a tiny part of him wouldn’t allow him to simply run back to her side. Guilt paired with apprehension created a dangerous reaction. Nothing. He did nothing as his sister curled in on herself, hurt by his lack of closeness. Aether’s shoulders sagged with regret as he turned toward the distance and stared out at the rising moon. Then, his eyes fell to the world below, blanketed with clouds.

He could hardly bring to mind countless theories of what dwelled beneath the cloud-like sea. No one in their year, let alone those who came before them had ever come to know the world below. Some had even come to believe there was nothing beneath but an endless abyss filled with shards from dying stars. The further one went, the deeper the darkness would become until they knew no more.

A tale most would take as a warning, but Aether considered a challenge and a lesson.

He curled his fingers into fists, pressed tightly against his sides. “… Hey Lumine,” called Aether, voice low but echoing loudly in the night’s quietude. “.. Would you love me… even if I wasn’t your sister?”

The words flew free from his lips as a weight lifted from his shoulders. Now that they left him, he couldn’t bring them back no matter how much he tried. Seconds seemed to stretch into infinity without a reply. It would have been more bearable to simply throw himself from the ledge and find if the rumors of the world were true. But then, something encircled his wrist and he jolted upright, only able to take a half-step backward before Lumine was pulling him closer. Her eyes were wet. Dew-like tears clinging to her eyelashes with every blink. Aether didn’t know how to respond. He’d wondered if he would have seen disgust in her eyes, or hear her disregard how he felt.

We’ll always be sisters.

Those four words which brought him comfort when they were small children only made his stomach churn now. Lumine’s face crumpled and she squeezed his wrist again, making Aether’s skin crawl with the non-answer.

“Lumine..?”

Lumine blinked rapidly at the sound of her name then sniffled. A pale pink beginning to flush her cheeks. She slowly nodded, her hold on his wrist easing.

Aether sighed then turned toward her, grasping her hand tightly. “That doesn’t mea-”

“Why would you think I wouldn’t -” Lumine trailed off, squeezing his fingers.

They stared at one another. Lumine’s hold on his hand so tight that Aether was certain his fingers would turn colors before long. His stomach lurched with fear as her lips parted.

“I will always love you,” said Lumine. Her sharp tug on Aether’s hand nearly had him tumbling into her. A yelp echoed in his ears and his eyes shut tightly, waiting for the air to rush around them. When nothing came, he cracked open his eyes.

Golden threads, fine and light, swayed before his eyes like the wheat fields they’d passed over on another isle. Like a sea of gold laid out before them, blazing bright beneath the sun’s rays.

Aether let his chin rest against Lumine’s shoulder, jaw quivering as he fought against the warm wet stinging at his eyes.

“Never forget that…”

 ----------

A sharp tug drew Aether back to the present. He yawned and blinked lazily at the fishing pole in his hands, nose wrinkled when the line swung. Balmy weather paired with the salty sea breeze made for an enticing mid-afternoon nap. However, his stomach growled in protest and reminded him why he was sitting here fishing to begin with.

A few nudges from the fishing pole brought his attention back to the crystalline waters, disturbed by the tide rolling up to the shore, washing his sand-covered toes. While he waited, Aether wondered if this was what the world below would have been like in that realm. Would his sister have enjoyed to see something like this if they hadn’t fallen into that trap before?

Aether sighed and pressed his thumbnail to the five petaled flower carved into the fishing pole’s side. Some habits never seemed to change.

Another tug, too sharp for him to ignore, nearly jolted him forward and his eyes flew open as he reared backward. The line yanked taut. He truly hoped that he didn’t have to replace this one as well. It’d taken forever to weave together one sturdy enough. But thankfully, the line held and with a sharp enough pull, his catch broke free from the water’s surface.

Aether’s jaw fell open and he scrambled to drop his fishing line, wading through the surf to grab the tiny figure hurtled through the air. The solid, heavy thing crashed into his chest and he stumbled backward, falling onto his behind as the waves rolled over his legs. Aether groaned in time with someone else’s and adjusted himself, peering down at the cherubic face of a little girl.

[umbrahighpriestofgiratina]

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Tales Of Arrival Prologue + Chapter 1

This fic is rated Teen for blood, mild gore, adults doing adult things like drinking and swearing, and some dirty jokes and such.

About time I had another B fic huh? (Greenhorn Prometheus doesn't count, it was a three-parter that was written out ahead of time, shhhhhhhh)

So, this is a fic that took me some come convincing to write, (I was never really that fond of the actual PMD games, though I generally like the fics better) but in the end I got attached to an idea and was like "hell, let's go."

I will be up front in saying this is a Tales Of Symphonia/Pokemon Mystery Dungeon crossover, and that you should note three things about that:

1.There will be some massive fucking spoilers for Tales Of Symphonia, especially around the character Kratos Aurion, so if you're particularly concerned about that then I recommend playing the game or watching an LP before reading this fic.

A. That said... If you have not played Tales Of Symphonia, do not care about spoilers relating to it, and are just here because you saw "Pokemon Mystery Dungeon" in the title, you should be fine - this fic is like at least 70% PMD, albeit a celebration of what I like about the genre and a satire of what I don't.

%. This is set in a PMD version of the Yangverse. It's fundamentally the same world, just with no humans and a lot of PMD elements added to compensate.

But anyway I should go ahead and get into this. But before I do big thanks to @masaeanela​ and her Tales of Symphonia LP, without which this fic wouldn't have been possible. Here we go:

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Tales Of Arrival

(Banner by Shinywolf!)

Prologue: New Life

Kratos could see the vast darkness of space staring out before him.

Derris-Kharlan had been drifting for a long while. It'd be a while before it'd establish itself as a proper living planet. His communications with Yuan had ceased just the other day. He had already scattered Cruxis' Exspheres into space. He could barely see where he left in the sky anymore.

Normally he'd pretend it didn't hurt. But leaving everything behind-

No. He had to.

He looked in the direction in the sky Derris-Kharlan had drifted from. Lloyd. He was back there. Kratos wondered, hoped, that he and his gaggle of friends were doing alright.

He looked to where Derris-Kharlan was drifting in the cold void of space. This was the only place for him. He realized now the blood on his hands. The countless people Cruxis had killed he was complicit with.

He didn't deserve to stay home. He didn't deserve redemption. He didn't deserve a happy life with his son, the only family he had left.

As he thought this, however, he noticed a strange light in the dark, starry sky. Looking at it, he thought at first it was a comet or meteor shooting through the sky.

But then he realized it was heading through Derris-Kharlan's atmosphere at incredible speed.

Heading straight toward him.

He tried to get out of the way. But it was too late. The light consumed him.

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

Kratos woke up in a colorful, pulsating, void. He couldn't feel his body. Almost like he was part of the void.

Then he heard a voice.

"Hello? Hello? Kratos, you there?"

"How do you know my name?" said Kratos.

"Oh, goody, it is you!" said the voice. "Listen, I know this is kind of sudden, but something's coming to my world and I need your help with it."

"...Why me?"

"You're... uniquely qualified. For multiple reasons. But before I bring you over I need to ask you some questions."

"I-"

"First question! Do you like groan-inducing puns?"

"...Spare me."

"You're lucky I can't think of one. Second question! Do you get bothered by noise and ruckus around you?"

"I try not to let it get to me."

"Hmmmm... Third question! Your friend is crying right in front of you! What made that happen?"

Kratos thought back to Mithos. To Yuan. To Lloyd.

"...It's probably my fault."

"Ouch. Not much of the self-esteem type. Question four! Do you occasionally consider yourself to be dull and overly cautious?"

"Of course not."

"Sure you aren't. Anyway, final question! Have you ever wanted to communicate with aliens from another planet?"

"I'm assuming you're one?"

"I will neither confirm nor deny."

"Hmmm... Some beings from my world came from the stars, but other than you, Derris-Kharlan hasn't encountered any aliens yet... so yes, I suppose."

"Okay! Hmmm, let's see, yes, yes... I think I have a form cooked up for you!"

"...Form?"

"Anyway, remember that question about the aliens and how you said you'd like to meet them?"

"Yes? I'm guessing wish granted."

"Yep! Wish granted."

The void turned a blinding white before Kratos lost consciousness again.

Chapter 1: Welcome To The World

Kratos stirred, groaned, and finally opened his eyes. What he saw was blue sky, much more blue than on Derris-Kharlan. He tilted his head a bit, saw trees, grass, and -

"Hey you! You're finally awake!"

What Kratos saw next to him was a small, black-and-red fox wearing a teal robe, with inquisitive blue eyes staring right at him.

"I was just about to get help... Are you OK?"

"Yes... I am alright," said Kratos. "Let me just..."

He sat up. And then realized he wasn't himself. His body was now much, much smaller in proportion to his head, and fuzzy. And his arms were... wings. Not like his old angel wings, like bat or dragon wings, with claws at the end instead of hands.

"How... How did this happen?"

"Someone must have knocked you out!" said the fox.

Kratos gave the fox a look.

"It must have been a feral Pokemon... Do you remember anything about it?"

"No... and I mean... What am I?"

The fox gasped. "Oh no! You must have amnesia! Uh, you're a Noibat! Though, not like any Noibat I've ever seen. Your colors are all different..."

"So I'm a creature known as a Noibat, then."

"Yeah! And I'm a Zorua! My name's Edbark. Do you remember yours?"

"...Yes. It's Kratos."

"Kratos? Huh. Sounds foreign. Well nice to meet you Kratos! I'll be sure to help get your memories back!"

"I don't need-"

"Come on! I'll take you to a doctor in the city."

"...Fine."

Edbark started to trot off. Kratos sighed and started to try and follow, only to stumble over. Edbark turned back and gasped.

"Oh no! You've forgotten how to walk!"

"I'm fine," said Kratos. "I just need to get used to this new body..."

"Come on," said Edbark. "I'll help you."

Edbark propped Kratos up with his back, then they walked away together.

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

Eventually, the duo reached the outskirts of what seemed to be a city. There were many houses both small and large and dirt roads, as well as towering buildings which Kratos could only fathom a guess at the purpose of.

Having figured out how to walk by himself, Kratos went closer and saw the city was populated not by humans or elves or half-elves or dwarves or even angels, but by a staggering array of different animals, plants, and even inanimate objects, all moving around as if they were people.

"What... is this place?" said Kratos. "And what are these creatures?"

"This is Rainbow Wing City!" said Edbark. "And man, that amnesia really got to you... These are Pokemon! You're a Pokemon, I'm a Pokemon..."

"I thought you said I was a Noibat and you were a Zorua."

"Noibat and Zorua are both kinds of Pokemon silly!"

"...I see."

The two continued further on into Rainbow Wing City, passing various buildings and a great variety of Pokemon. Kratos marveled at the bazaars and shops and facilities run by colorful creatures he couldn't even count. Eventually the two reached what seemed to be a castle - Kratos noticed one of two in the city, along with a cathedral.

"And this place is..." said Kratos.

"The Adventurer's Guild!" said Edbark."They can help you out!"

Edbark dragged Kratos inside. Kratos noticed more facilities and corridors and dormitories inside, as well as what seemed to be an... Inn? With a bar?

Eventually Edbark dragged Kratos into a central room. Seated at the end of the room was a strange, cream-and-green mustelid-like creature wearing a red vest, flanked by two floating grayish blue automaton-like beings.

"Guildmaster, it's Edbark!" said one.

"And... some Noibat?" said another.

"I see, I see," said the mustelid. He approached the duo. "Edbark my boy! Who do you have here?"

"Guildmaster Stoakes!" said Edbark. "This is Kratos! Poor guy has amnesia! All he can remember is his own name... You gotta help him!"

Kratos was about to object that no, he did not have amnesia, he remembers the last four thousand years or so up until this point fine, but then he realized they probably weren't going to listen and decided to just roll with it.

"Hmm, amnesia, huh?" said Stoakes, scratching his chin. "He'll need some rest and recovery... But the Adventurer's Guild never turns down a person in need. He can stay here, we'll have Nurse Betania take a look at him."

"Yay! Thank you, Guildmaster Stoakes!" said Edbark. He turned to Kratos. "These guys have got you covered. I'll be back!"

He scampered off, and the two automatons escorted Kratos to another room as Stoakes followed.

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

A large pink oval with white tufts on her body and an egg nestled in a pouch on her belly now looked Kratos over. She looked him up, down, and sideways as she prodded and investigated his head and body. Kratos begrudgingly obliged as Stoakes watched.

"Well," said the pink oval, who was apparently Nurse Betania, "This is odd. He doesn't seem to have head trauma or other trauma or any injuries at all! How the hell does he have amnesia?"

"Well I wouldn't know." said Kratos.

Stoakes thought to himself a bit. "There's one possibility... Some nefarious Pokemon, somehow, wiped his memories."

"Well that gives us fuck-all evidence as to who!" said Betania, huffing.

"It seems it can't be helped." said Stoakes. He sighed, then turned to Kratos. "My offer for you to stay here still stands. Though... what do you remember?"

Kratos paused to think of a convincing reply. "...My name, Kratos Aurion. And apparently your language, basic functions of living, certain basic concepts... I remember nothing of this world or its people."

"Hm. Awfully specific memory wipe," said Stoakes. "Whoever did this to you must have had a very strange goal in mind... Nevertheless, you're safe with the Adventurer's Guild."

"Thank you."

"Hmph. Adopting another one, I see, Stoakes," said Betania.

"It can't be helped! Rule Number 1 of the Adventurer's Guild! Always help those in need, no matter who they are!"

Kratos was suddenly reminded of his son Lloyd's fondness for the Dwarven Vows. "I appreciate it."

"Besides," said Stoakes. "You came to Rainbow Wing City at a good time! The Seeking is soon! There will be a big festival and everything!"

"The Seeking?"

"I'll let Edbark explain that one, he gets excited about old myths and legends and stuff like that. Anyway, we should probably find you a room..."

He led Kratos out of the infirmary and down the stony hall to a set of rooms.

"Here's an empty dormitory. Since we're hosting you, you get to stay free of charge here instead of at the inn."

"Thank you for your generosity."

"No problem, Kratos! Come to us for anything you need!"

He headed off. Kratos paused, then sat on the bed of his new room and stared off into space.

What the hell was going on?

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And there you have it, the beginning of this crossover adventure! This will update in rough alternation with Heroes After All until one of them finishes in like 3000 years. Stay tuned!