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sidus-noctifer · 26 days ago

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Together (we fall)

Repost, Fluff, Pining

Xiao gazed the estuary below him, his watchful gaze overseeing the golden plains of Liyue. His molten eyes contemplated the picturesque scenery from atop the Inn, with eyes clouded by wonder. When did he start being like this? His gaze fled, looking at the amber tiles of the roof and staring at them with shame, as if seeking refuge from the eyes of the gods.

A warm breeze from the south blew, as gingko leaves fell from the ancient tree. He couldn't help but ponder. Would your touch feel as warm and delicate? When did he start feeling so weak, almost human?

At these questions, Xiao could not find an answer. Instead he could only pray his master, Rex Lapis, and ask to keep away from him you, the bane of his existence.

It started with an unfamiliar feeling, imperceptible and evasive: akin to the flutter of a butterfly's wings.

And before he knew it, that innocent was solicitude something he never knew before: a tender affection like no other, one that kept plaguing him. Did you even knew the effect you had on him? Were you aware about the way his mind kept running back to you, wondering about your wellbeing and whereabouts? Did you know how much he loathed you for the curse you laid upon him?

That was your sin, afterall: to make him, an illuminated adeptus,human.

A soft voice, akin to a whisper, spoke his name. One, two, three minutes passed, yet the adeptus did not know if he should've fuel with your presence the curse you bestowed upon him.

You really were cruel.

Then, he acknowledged your call.

You smiled and- archons, Xiao could swear that your smile was so resplendent like none. "You're here" you whispered, as if making sure that the one before you was the Adeptus of Wangshu Inn himself and not a naive reverie.

"Why did you call me? Is something the matter?" he spoke, blaming once again your curse for making him utter those words more softly than he had intended. However, you didn't notice it, he comforted himself. Or maybe you pretended to not have heard.

You bit your cheek, trying to suppress a mischievous grin. "Well... I wanted to ask you a favour" the way you spoke those words did not foretell anything good.

Ages could've changed yet human's foolishness would never know boundaries. Xiao let out something between a sigh and a groan, uncaring about your hurted gaze. And after all, it wasn't worth it for an adeptus to deal with their stupidity. Few Qingxins laid forgotten on the balcony's wooden floor while others had been haphazardly placed inside a porcelain vase.

"What is that long face? It suits you well, you know" your pout did not take long to morph into one of those adorable smiles of yours.

The adeptus did not reply as he gazed at the faraway mountains, hidden by the veil of mist while begging the gods to not let you see the burning flush of his cheecks. You fell silent, observing the flowers you oh-so painstakingly intertwined in a flower crown. "Seriously, it suits you" you gazed away, eyes seeking a refuge from him "It makes you look... cute" you muttered that word softly as if trying to not be heard.

He blinked- once, twice, thrice- at you features still immersed in your own thoughts not cognizant of the feeling wholly taking over Xiao. "Stop spitting out nonsense" his words sounded more like a pitiful groan than the growl he intended.

Your angelic smile was now turned into a devilish grin. This side of you was rather... pleasing, he found himself shamelessly thinking much to his own dismay and chagrin. "But alas, I'm afraid that no flower could ever compare with your beauty"

Those candid guise of yours truly hid an imp. The words he spoke next were unforeseeable even to himself "....are you trying to woo me?"

Astonishment painted over your features and he eftsoons found himself enjoying the sight in front of him. Then, you reminded Xiao how obnoxious you could be. "Who knows" a lopsided grin adorned your features.

A sigh left his lips. "You truly are reckless". Archons above, please, do not let them hear this fondness in his voice. A giggle escaped from you as the mellifluous sound resonated through the air. He felt his heart flutter and, for the first time after aeons, Xiao cursed his human vassal.

He stared at you as he felt your eyes linger on his figure. "What's wrong?"

"You have a petal in your hair" you spoke, eyes still not leaving his features.

"You're the one that made me wear it" he huffed.

"You look adorable with it, however" you grinned teasingly. He abruptly turned his head, directing his gaze elsewhere "... Just how many times are you going to repeat that?"

You didn't reply as you grinned triumphantly at the Adeptus' reaction. A chortle left your lips "There, there, let me remove it"

"Do not give it much relevance" despise his words, your hand did not cease its path.

You gently took the minute petal, which hid itself in a teal lock of his hair. You were close- oh, so close that he almost melted under your touch. You didn't make any sense, how could you treat a creature that only knew the blood of the battlefield with such carefreeness? How could you touch him so delicately as if he could've break like glass?

You withdrawed your hand violently, feeling a sharp pain as if you've been hit by an electric shock. You groaned in pain, feeling your arm becoming numb. It hurts. If this anguish continued you were sure that you would've exhale your last breath.

"... Xiao?" you weakly called his name, your voice was now hoarse.

Your words were met by thin air.

You didn't know how much time passed before you managed to see him once again. No matter how many times you tried to approach him, every time you attempted to talk to him, he always disappeared right before your eyes. It hurted, for some reason.

"What are you trying to do?" you tried to ask one day. You didn't need to say anything else.

"I'm harmful to mortals, even my presence alone is enough to hurt you" his Gaza moved on you, his eyes finally indulging on you instead on the Liyue's landscape illuminated by the golden rays of eventide. "You should be well aware of it"

"Stop avoiding me, please" you begged, on the verge of falling into despair. The look in your eyes was enough to make his heart ache.

His mind was filled with sorrow. "It's for your own good" speaking those words felt like being stabbed. "I'm sorry" he murmured to the wind. It hurted, too much. Ages of endless slaughter made him used to endure sufferings unknown to this world. But he was defenseless like a newborn in front of regret.

"I'll endure it, we'll find a way but please..." You letted only the voices from afar of the other travellers fill that silence. You smiled melancholically, his heart fluttered both for the pain and something else. "Unfortunately for you I like being with you

You were a paradox to him, something that he couldn't understand even in ages-no, millenia. He loathed you completely for your nativity even if you were the only one that taught him the meaning of human emotions, even if you could put at ease for an ephemeral time his tormented soul.

He hated you for your curse, even if he knew that it wasn't by no means a fruit of witchcraft. "I am bound to protect this land by a contract that has been forgotten by many if not immortals. My duty is simply to protect Liyue from evil, yet... yet I would hate to see you hurt because of me" he paused, his Amber eyes gazing at you. You swore you saw the ghost of a smile on his lips "Besides, you are deserving of all the happiness of this world"

#genshin #genshin impact #xiao #x reader #genshin x reader #genshin impact x reader #xiao x reader

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carmillascrusade · 10 months ago

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Shrouded affection finale | Emily Prentiss x f!reader

Summary: Good things don’t always last forever and Emily has a habit of self destructing.

Word count: 4,801

A/N: This is super late because my teachers hate me and keep assigning tests… and dialogue heavy maybe. Has anybody seen the new mean girls yet? I watched it on Sunday. @jellysaidshit @emilxprentiss @poorwritingandstalecoffee

The case was located in San Francisco. When Garcia had presented the case four women had been brutally murdered; each of their limbs broken and twisted in an inhumane way. Just looking at those poor women made you feel sick to your stomach.

How could someone do something like this? So evil. So deranged.

The case itself was long and gruelling. Restless nights made better due to you not having Emily to share your burdens with. You were currently getting ready for drinks at the bar with the team and the police department, a small but well needed celebration for cracking such a tough case.

You and Emily had both decided to just go in your work clothes. After all, you hadn’t packed for celebratory drinks.

Strobing lights obscured your vision as you pushed your way into the bar. Obnoxiously loud music blasted from speakers as you pushed your way through a sea of sweaty, half drunk bodies in hopes of finding your team. Emily’s hand was in yours as you guided her through the crowd, slightly shoving people out of the way in order to make enough room for you to squeeze past.

Emily had given you the rest of her gifts before you had left for the bar. The cool caress of the metal curled around your wrist a welcome reminder of Emily’s love for you. She had bought a gorgeous charm bracelet for you; each charm painstakingly hand crafted by a jeweller to represent significant moments shared between the two of you. You didn’t know how to react when you had opened it, instead you bursted into tears and hung onto Emily for dear life.

She was so thoughtful. So eager to show her love for you.

So perfect.

You couldn’t help but imagine a future with her and what that would entail. The familiar laughing of your teammates notified you of their whereabouts. Penelope’s incoherent spiels drowned out any other conversation in the immediate area, like a fog horn would any other siren. Her bubbly nature despite what you faced regularly would never fail to amaze you. You admired her, truly, for she continued to shine in a world full of darkness; undimmed by the many people wielding instruments meant to snuff her very light.

Emily chuckled beside you, ever amused at Penelope’s antics. The small collection of empty glasses reminded you or Emily’s numerous half full water bottles strewn around the side of her bed. She had told you that they were there for when she got thirsty throughout the night but they never seemed to decrease in number.

It had made you giggle when you had first saw them, Emily’s antics never failing to surprise you. Her quirks made her the person she is and you wouldn’t have it any other way; even if it meant that you were subject to her playing with your hair as she tried to stay awake.

Penelope’s ramblings came to a halt as she seen you approach with Emily trailing behind. A loud squeal pierced the air, causing multiple heads to turn to the direction it came from, searching for the source in mere curiosity. The source being Penelope.

“Hi! I’m so glad you’re here.” She slurred out at you, the consonants in her words drawled out ever so slightly.

“Hi, Penelope.” You greeted cheerily, dropping Emily’s hand in favour of supporting your conversation partner as she began to sway.

Just as you managed to get her back into her seat, the sheriff approached you, sheepishly asking you for a dance. Looking over her shoulder for Emily in the hopes of getting away from an unwanted dance, you were surprised to see her already dancing with someone else.

A beautiful woman at that. The blond woman was whispering in Emily’s ear, something salacious you assumed based on Emily’s vibrant blush and embarrassed chuckle. Your world seemed to slow down as you only seemed to be able to focus on them, heart stuttering in your chest, stomach dropping.

You felt sick. Clearly your little tryst had been just that and nothing more. Once cool metal, a gentle reminder of Emily’s affection for you, burned your skin. You wanted it off. You wanted to leave and never show your face again.

A gentle hand on your arm was the final straw. The tears you had so desperately been holding back finally broke free, pouring out of your tear ducts as water would a burst dam. Your heart was aching, throbbing in anguish, relentlessly beating against your ribcage in an effort to escape the damage associated with heart break.

“Are you okay?” A distant voice called out. Muffled and far away, as a voice would sound if speaking to you through a barrier of water.

Glossy eyes flicked up and met the piercing blue gaze of the sheriff, flooded with concern at your current state. Your response, if you could call it that, came out in a jumble of words. Your eyes flicked back to Emily and the blond to see the woman leading your lover away. No. Emily wasn’t yours.

Seemingly following your pitiful gaze, Sheriff Lister pieced the information together.

“How about we go outside. Get some air, hmm?” She was speaking to you as you would an injured child, gentle and nurturing.

You gripped onto her arm as she led you outside. The tears clouding your vision made leaving the bar far more difficult than it would have been under normal circumstances. Sweet whispers from Lister were occasionally granted to you, grounding you to the present, keeping you out of your head and focussed on the task at hand. Leaving the building.

The night air was cold, borrowing body heat as a neighbour would a cup of sugar. Frost covered the window panes of nearby shops, frigid and distance in the think cover of night. You focussed on your breaths rising as white puffed clouds, willing yourself to calm down.

You knew that Emily had commitment issues You knew that she was unlikely to return your affections. Yet you still pined after her anyways.

A fool.

The telltale click of a lighter sparking to life alerted you once more of the sheriff stood beside you. Her eyes were on you, hawklike in nature as she studied you from underneath her lashes.

“So,” she drawled out the word. “You and your dark haired coworker?”

You nodded feebly, the cold catching up to you now that you had calmed down, subconsciously causing you to draw your body closer to Lister’s. Ever perceptive, she noticed your state and offered you her coat.

“Won’t you be cold?” You asked, not wanting her to freeze because of you.

“I’ll be alright, darling.”

She cheekily grinned at you; the type of grin that would be charming if you weren’t recently subject to such heartache, the type of grin that sent girls like you reeling. You muttered a small thank you. For her jacket or for the kindness she was showing you, you weren’t sure.

“How about we go get some food, hmm? I’m sure some takeout place will still be open.”

Your stomach growling was answer enough.

Emily watched the interaction between you and that sheriff from across the street. Her stomach twisted uncomfortable as she watched her dry your tears, as she watched you wear her jacket and link arms with her. You should have been linking arms with Emily, not some random woman.

But, she couldn’t really blame you for seeking comfort elsewhere. After all, she had been the one to fall back into old habits. She had been the one flirting with another woman, with the full intention of destroying the very new, the very fragile relationship the two of you shared.

Emily Prentiss did not deserve nice things. She didn’t deserve you and your lovely smiles. She didn’t deserve your affection; especially after the stunt she pulled today.

Everything had happened so fast. One moment she was holding your hand, marvelling in your beauty and the next she was leaving the bar with a woman. A woman that wasn’t you.

She had seen you spot her with the blond, had seen your face fall and the tears you had not been able to hold back. And still, she followed the woman all the way until her hotel room.

It wasn’t until she got there that she had realised her mistake. The lips pressing against her were rough and sloppy. Inconsiderate of her feelings. All they sought was pleasure and a fast release.

She had pulled away then, leaving the hotel room with a flimsy excuse thrown over her soldier. What had she done? She yearned for your lips to be the ones on her, for your hands to be the ones touching her. She wanted your soft smiles and saccharine sweet kisses.

She needed them.

But, her self destructive tendencies had won again and she had lost the one thing in her life she wanted the most. You.

You who had to seek comfort in the arms of another woman because she had been the one to deal you pain. You who had been nothing but patient and caring towards her, never pushing her away when you had every right to do so. You who shone brighter then the sun and stars combined, brightening her once dark world until she could no longer feel the deathly grip of her past.

Emily didn’t deserve you. You were too good. Too pure to be corrupted by the likes of her. Yet you had always stayed.

Emily Prentiss had pushed away the only thing she held dear and she was the only person to blame. Her heart seemed to fracture with every step you took away from her, shattering completely as she heard your laugh- the one reserved for her alone- directed at somebody else.

But, she reasoned with herself, she deserved this.

Lister, or Kate as you had quickly learned, had taken you to get pizza, buying a large for the two of you to share. The two of you were currently sat on a park bench, with you giggling at Kate dropping pizza on her shirt and Kate furiously trying to get the stain off.

“You know, rubbing it super hard isn’t going to make the grease stain go away.” You teased before taking another bite of your pizza slice.

Kate narrowed her eyes at you in faux anger. Her rubbing soon stopped as she decided, finally, that it wasn’t doing any help.

“So, you gonna tell me what’s going on between you and what’s she called?”

“Emily?” You supplied.

“Yeah, her.”

“It’s a long story.” You sighed wearily.

“Ehh, I’ve got the time to spare.” She shrugged as she said it before resting her hand on your knee. “But don’t feel pressured into sharing if you don’t want to.”

You smiled at her, sneakily taking the last slice of pizza out of the box while she was distracted.

“ I’m in love with her.”

She laughed at that. “Yeah, anyone with a pair of eyes can see that, sweetheart.”

She received a soft slap to the side in response but you carried on with the story. It seemed that once you started, you couldn’t stop. Everything you had been holding in, keeping secret from your friends, tumbled out of your mouth.

You were crying again. The events of the day being so emotionally overwhelming that you couldn’t help yourself. Kate tutted in sympathy as she drew you into a hug.

“You didn’t deserve any of that.” She assured.

“I know. I know that, I truly do but I can’t help but feel like part of me deserves it.”

“How come?”

“Well, look at her. Emily is amazing. So amazing that she outshines everybody in the room despite just standing there.”

“Hey, you’re not too bad yourself, y’know.” She joked, trying to lighten the sullen and serious atmosphere that had built up.

“I guess.”

Your somber mood was only heightened by the cold chill beginning to set in your bones. Kate walked you back to your hotel room and you thanked her for the night. However, you knew it was getting late and you didn’t want her walking home alone, especially after the gruelling case you had just finished, so you asked if she wanted to stay.

It was the least you could do.

Surprise briefly coloured the faces of your team members before they schooled their features into a more neutral expression. What were you doing with the sheriff?

Emily was seething from where she stood beside JJ. Not only had to went on a late night rendezvous, but you had invited that woman back to your room and she was still here. Laughing and touching your knee without a care in the world.

That was Emily’s job. She was supposed to touch you and make you laugh. You were supposed to look at her like that, not the sheriff.

“What’s going on with those two?” JJ asked, nudging Emily with her elbow.

“I don’t know.” She spat back.

“You know,” she started carefully, not wanting to irritate her friend any further. “I saw you and that blond last night.”

She had said it as a statement rather than an accusation, but the way her eyes narrowed slightly and her gaze pierced through Emily’s suggested otherwise.

“Yeah, what about it?” Emily was getting defensive.

“Well, I don’t think you have the right to be jealous when you were all over that woman last night. We all saw you together.”

Emily huffed in aggravation because she truly had no right to be jealous, but she was. She had shot herself in the foot with her rash decisions last night and it stung. It stung so much that she couldn’t even look in your direction; fearful of your disappointed eyes or, even worse, you looking at another woman the way you once did her.

“They’re all staring you know?” Kate observed with a slight gesture towards your team.

You turned your head to look over at your team, their faces unreadable as they looked at you. Emily, however, was the only one refusing to look in your direction, instead biting her nails. You had always hated that habit of hers, how it brought her so much pain but seemed to be the only thing that soothed her.

The only thing but you.

She wouldn’t even look at you? Your sadness soon turned into anger, however, as you realised that you did not deserve to be strung along like you had been. If she didn’t want to look at you, fine, you wouldn’t bother with her either.

JJ started walking toward you, her curiosity getting the best of her as she drew closer to you and Kate. Did you not have feelings for Emily?

“Hey,”

“Hi Jayje,” you greeted her with a smile.

“Who’s your friend?”

“You know… Kate?” You shot her a questioning look. “We’ve worked with her and her officers the entire case.”

“Well yeah, I know that she’s Sheriff Lister but..”

“What’s she doing here?” You supplied.

JJ nodded, albeit a bit shamefully. Her cheeks and neck tinting red made you smile slightly. You wondered briefly if she had came on behalf of Emily, they were best friends after all, but Emily didn’t care about you.

“Kate took me to get pizza last night and by the time we came back it was too late for her to walk home alone.”

“Oh…” she trailed off before looking back at Emily who was staring off into space. “like a date?”

You and Kate both burst out in to laughter, stomachs tensing almost uncomfortably as you leaned on one another for support. JJ stared at you perplexed. Why were you laughing at her?

“If you’re just going to laugh at me,” she muttered, brows furrowed and lips downturned. “I’ll just go.”

You quickly composed yourself at her upset tone and reached out for her. “JJ, no don’t go. I’m sorry for laughing. It’s just, Kate and I are friends that’s all, I was pretty upset last night and she helped me. That’s all.”

“Upset? What? Why didn’t you tell any of us you were upset?” She questioned. Weren’t you friends?

“Perhaps you should ask your best friend why I was upset.”

Kate and you had shared numbers before parting with each other as neither of you wished to lose the friendship you had quickly formed. The flight back to Quantico was silent, a tense silence at that. None of that mattered now though as you finally back in the comforts of your own home. Your bed a necessary comfort after the tough week you had, it welcomed you as a lover would, warm and comforting.

Sleep evaded your grasp for the majority of the night causing optic to toss and turn in discomfort. What you were not expecting, especially at 4 a.m, was the abrupt knock at your door. You weren’t expecting visitors. Another three knocks rapped against your door. Your heart rate picked up and you reached for the gun in your bedside table before slipping out of the duvet.

It was better to be safe than sorry.

You barely registered the rain beating against the panes of your windows or the wind whistling a familiar tune. Instead you were focussed on the doorframe that loomed in the dimness of your foyer, daring you to get closer to it. Challenging you to a battle of wills.

You weren’t sure who you expected to be behind the door. Perhaps a rage filled criminal looking for vengeance or a renowned serial killer looking to make a reappearance. What, or should you say who, you weren’t expecting to be stood on the other side of the door was Emily.

…

Emily?

You went to slam the door shut, on,y to be stopped by the toe of a doc marten wedged between your dorm and its frame. How dare she knock on your door at this god awful hour. How dare she stop you from closing it. You did not owe her anything and you certainly would not entertain whatever pitiful display this was.

Furiously flinging the door back open, unconcerned with the bang it made against the wall, you jabbed your finger into her chest, effectively shoving her out of the doorway and back into the hallway. “What on earth are you doing here?” You hissed.

“Please,” she begged, eyes downcast shamefully. “please hear me out.”

“No. I don’t think I will.”

A sudden move almost toppled you over. Emily was on her knees, clinging you like her life depended on it, head nestled against your legs.

“Please!” She cried. “Please, please, please…”

Her sobs were muffled by your pyjama bottoms. You were in a state of shock. First of all, what was she doing here? Second of all, what had made her so upset that she was here, in front of you, down on her knees. Her shoulders were shaking alongside her sobs and you couldn’t help but feel slightly sorry for her.

After all, feelings don’t just disintegrate over night and, as ashamed as you were to admit it, you are still in love with her.

You unintentionally let out a frustrated sigh, which seemed to make Emily even more upset. You weren’t really sure how to deal with the situation you had so carelessly been thrown into, so against your better judgement you pulled Emily inside. She wasn’t making it easy though. It is very difficult to move with an adult holding onto your legs.

“Emily!” You admonished. “I cannot move with you clinging on to me as you are!”

Her form shrunk at your tone and you realised that you needed to go about this a different way.

“I’m sorry for shouting at you.” You whispered gently, free hand reaching out the toy with her hair. “Please, can you let go of me so we can go inside? I’m not going anywhere.”

That seemed to get her attention as her head raised to look at you. Your heart shattered at the broken ‘promise?’ she whispered. How could someone make you feel everything and nothing all at once? Emily Prentiss was an enigma. Five minutes ago you were so certain that you hated her. But now? Now, you weren’t sure of how you felt. You weren’t really sure of anything.

It was difficult but you had managed to get her settled on the couch before placing your gun down. She was lied down with your blanket draped over her slumped form. Her tears had subsided for the time being, not that you could see much of her face with your small salt lamp being the only source of illumination.

You were in the kitchen making hot chocolate for the both of you. You had a feeling that it would be a long night. A long, emotional night. Emily’s cup was almost overflowing with the generous amount of marshmallows and whipped cream you had applied to the top of her drink. Yours was less severe.

Plopping down next to her on the couch, careful not to spill the drinks, you handed hers over. You were grateful for the lack of light as it allowed you to study her face without consequence. She was staring at your fireplace, eyes lingering on the framed photo of you and her on the mantle piece, seemingly lost in thought.

Your apartment groaned in discomfort due to the oncoming assault from the storm outside. Emily’s coat had been hung to dry as you ushered her in, thankfully your legs hadn’t gotten wet. The air was chilly from the wind seeping through the cracks of your windows. Emily was currently covered with the only blanket in the living room. If only you weren’t so considerate.

Your subtle shivers seemed to rouse Emily from whatever daydream she had found herself in.

“We can share the blanket if you want.” Her voice was so quiet that you barely heard it over the storm. She lifted her arm, allowing you to get under the blanket but you declined.

You couldn’t stand being that close to her. Not now. Not after that night.

“I’m alright.” You hadn’t mean to sound so cold.

Emily deflated at your disinterest in being close to her and you were starting to get antsy. Your fingers drummed against your leg in short, consecutive movements- a self soothing gesture you find yourself doing during times of high stress.

“Why are you here?” Blurted out of your mouth before you could stop it. It may have been blunt but you want, no need, answers.

“I wanted to talk.”

“We have nothing to talk about.” You scoffed.

“Please,” she begged, reaching out for your hands. Silently grateful that you didn’t pull away when she put her hands in yours.

“Make it quick.”

“What is she to you?” She asked, sliding onto her knees so she could sit in front of you.

You laughed. Full belly laughed in her face at the audacity she had to ask you that question. “Excuse me? You do not get to ask me that. Not after you had your tongue down another woman’s throat.”

You were beyond angry. How dare she ruin what you have and then come to your apartment in the middle of the night begging to talk. Snatching your hands out of hers, you pushed her away from you and moved through the dark halls of your apartment, wanting nothing more than the comfort of your bed and Emily gone.

“You can leave now, Emily.”

She scrambled up from the ground and ran after you. You wanted to cry as you heard the her crash into your furniture. Not only did she have to break your heart but she had to break your furniture too. One minute you were in your bed alone and the next Emily was on top of you. Clutching onto your shirt, head hurried in your neck as she started crying again.

“Please don’t leave me.”

“We were never together.” You couldn’t help but want to be mean back but there was also a question on the tip of your tongue, itching to be released. “Why’d you do it, Emily? Why’d you go home with her.”

“I didn’t!” Her voice rose exponentially before she controlled her outburst and lowered her tone. “Well, I did but we didn’t do anything. I promise! You have to believe me. She wasn’t you.”

“Why did you do it?” You repeated.

“I was scared. Everything I had ever wanted had finally fallen into my hands and I didn’t know what to do with it. You’re so perfect and I knew that I didn’t, no I don’t, deserve you. I’m sorry.” Her words were kind of officiating to hear through her stutters but you could make them out.

“Sorry isn’t good enough.” You were being petty and you knew it but you wanted her to feel the same gut wrenching feeling that you had. Attempting to sit up, you pushed her off slightly, only for her to clutch onto you even harder. “Perhaps you should go find another woman to entertain yourself with. I’m not sure if a relationship with you is worth pursuing.”

“Don’t say that. Please don’t say that.”

“I can’t trust you, Emily. How do I know you’re not going to run off into another woman’s arms as soon as things get tough?”

“Please, I’ve realised my mistake. You know I’ll never do anything if the sort ever again.”

“I don’t.” You whispered, heart feeling like it was been torn from your chest with every word you spoke.

Your eyes refused to meet hers and she couldn’t stand it. She reached up and cupped your face with both of your hands, gently turning your head so that you would be looking into her eyes. You were shutting her out but she needed you to listen. She needed you to know how much you meant to her.

“You don’t know how much you mean to me. I would defy the laws of the universe if it meant, however selfish that may be, that I got to spend eternity with you. One lifetime is not enough. I will always crave, no need; I will always need that moment more, that second longer, because I am utterly and hopelessly devoted to you.”

“Oh, please.” You scoff. “You were all over her!”

“And you weren’t all over that sheriff?!”

“Kate,” you fumed, jabbing her in the chest with your pouter finger. “Was there for me because you made me cry. You do not get to bring her into this argument when she’s been nothing but kind to me.”

The reminder of the misfortune she had caused you made her look like a wounded puppy, ashamed and guilt ridden. “I love you.” Her confession was accompanied with tear filled eyes and a wobbly voice.

“I’m not sure you do.” You felt as if the world had stopped as you muttered the words. Was this the end for you and Emily? Had your relationship stopped before it truly started?

“Don’t you love me?” She cried, desperate to hear you say it, just once.

“I do.”

“Then why are you pushing me away?!”

“ I don’t want you to hurt me again.” You confessed.

“I won’t.” Was repeated over and over. Soft promised whispered into your ear and lips as you finally accepted her embrace.

Chapped lips met yours, moving against you so softly and slowly as if they were afraid you would bolt away at any sudden movement. Two tear stained faces met each other in the middle, seeking out the comfort only achievable from being close to the other person. Tentative smiles played on your lips as you briefly pulled away, reflecting a mixture of relief and apprehension.

Emily’s hand found the back of your head ands yours the small of her back, the gestures being both reassuring and vulnerable at the same time. Your eyes locked with hers as you both silently acknowledged the mistake she made and, Jody importantly, the lesson she had learned from it.

Your heart felt like it was about to leap into the unknown. The air between you was charged with the whispers of forgiveness and the feeling of heartache beginning to lift. Your touch became Emily’s lifeline, grounding her to the present. You were here and you weren’t leaving.

As your lips met once more, you knew that you and Emily would share a future; one tinged with the promise of redemption and no more heartbreak. The kiss mended broken threads and bridged the gaps that had seemed to have been too vast to fill.

Yes. The two of you were going to be okay.

Chapter one, chapter two, chapter three

#criminal minds #emily prentiss #emily prentiss x female reader #emily prentiss x reader #emily prentiss x you

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animentality · 10 months ago

Note

Sorry people are being a bunch of weenies. I do not have the same interpolations of Whoretash however I do very much like yours and I think your incorrect quotes are immaculate

But I do think that if people are being rude then you don't need to feed them, so I don't blame you for putting BG3 in the corner.

You know what really annoys me, anon?

For MONTHS. these people have been reblogging my posts. chattering to me about Gortash and Durgetash.

And all this time... I have CAREFULLY. gone out of my way. painstakingly. meticulously.

referred to the dark urge as they/them. why???

because I never wanted people with female Durges to feel like my dark urge head canons didn't include them. I didn't want people with male Durges to feel like I wasn't including them.

I wanted enby and trans and g/n durges to be included in my silly ramblings.

and I might've joked about Gortash being gay or bi or whatever, but mostly I have been the most pro, whatever your Durge is, he is into that specifically. he could even be ace and he's still into Durge.

that's the beauty of the queer label. I never said he had to fuck men to be queer. he could be with a female Durge and still be queer.

and even though my durges are trans male or nonbinary, and gay as hell, I still liked anyone who liked Durge as an origin, AND who saw the beauty of durgetash.

but NOW.

these same people are bitching at me because... I said Gortash is bisexual. they're insisting I AM PROJECTING my sexuality on him and acting like I'm the non-inclusive one.

and it makes me really feel like...

your brain couldn't power a potato clock.

Gortash being bisexual is literally the MORE inclusive option. it's NOT saying he's gay, he's not into women, or he's straight, he's not into men.

it's saying no matter what your Durge is, he'd be into them. no matter who your tav is, he's into them.

and the fact that I'm bi- it's such a fucking joke that they're using that against me.

I say I'm bi because I don't care to explain that I'm asexual, but biromantic.

I hate extra labels, and bisexual is way easier for most people to understand.

so these people accusing me of forcing my sexuality on a character are baffling because if I was doing that, I would NOT be talking about the dark urge and gortash fucking nasty every night. I'd be talking about how they sit at home reading books together. I'd be talking about how they hug at night and don't let go, and don't even play grab ass once.

It's also further obnoxious because these fucking people.

They have... every single... video game, movie, TV show, goddamn cereal ad... dedicated to straight people.

Baldur's Gate... is like the most bisexual game in all of existence.

the tavs can be trans, they can be cis, they can be gay, bi, straight, ace. whatever you want.

there are gay gnomes and lesbian aasimars and all the companions are bisexual.

it's the most queer friendly game of this century.

but they can't let this one character go. they get confirmation that this one character "might be straight" and now they're using that same fucking language of "ew why does everyone have to be gay with you people?"

and it's a joke.

Anyway, though. Thanks for sticking around.

I'm glad someone's enjoying my nonsense.

#baldurs gate 3 #bg3 #enver gortash

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cauldronblssd · 8 months ago

Text

Ch 17 - Found in the Sunlight

Something about Autumn Court males...it's time for the frenzy.

Read on AO3

Big thank you to @climbthemountain2020 for being my beta this chapter and also being the nicest person. I will also be adding a taglist in the future, let me know if you would like to be added.

Excerpt:

She was stalling, and she knew it. The guests seemed to be tiring and soon Elain would need to take action. Not to mention she’d spent rather a long time on the cake she’d prepared, and she feared for the integrity of the cream icing if she didn’t serve it soon. Elain looked towards Nesta who rolled her eyes and looked pointedly at the table. Perhaps sensing the dilemma, Tarquin and Cresseida politely turned away, offering another congratulations. Curse them and their manners. Feyre had reiterated to Elain how nice Tarquin would be. She should have been talking to Eris instead, he would have kept them talking for another hour just to irk Lucien.

Seemingly sensing her nerves, Lucien squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Shall we?”

Elain couldn’t speak the words, afraid they might come out No. This had been her idea, she reminded herself. She offered him a nod and what she hoped resembled a smile. It must not have been successful because his mouth turned down at the corners in response. She couldn’t hesitate or Lucien would question her decision again, would offer her a polite out that would only wound both of their feelings.

Instead, she led him towards the head table, laden with flowers and garlands of greenery. Atop it sat a smaller version of the large cake that guests had already begun to eat. Unlike the guests’ cake which had been a joint effort between herself and the twins, this one had been baked entirely by her own hand. She’d painstakingly edged the icing with small flowers and decorated with lemon slices. She’d initially planned a more intricate design but found her hand trembled with nerves the moment she began to pipe the icing onto the cake. It was better than scraps.

Lucien pulled out a seat for her before settling himself in his own, their chairs turned to face each other. Her sisters had decorated the chairs with ribbons and obnoxious signs on the back that declared “Just Mated”. Around them, guests had begun to gather to take in the spectacle. Lucien sat tense in his chair, his back rigid and his hands placed on his knees. His golden eye hovered over her, whirring softly as it took her in. He looked nervous, and it softened Elain in turn. She leaned towards him, and his delicious woodsy smell invaded her senses, combined with the subtle undertones of his arousal. She allowed her cheek to brush his own as she leaned into whisper in his ear. His hands flexed but did not move. “You want this?” she asked, one final time.

She needed him to know, though she’d pushed this decision, she would never force him to accept the bond. She turned to look at him, making eye contact, trying to convey the sincerity of the question. He looked her in the eyes, nodding. His throat bobbed as he swallowed anxiously. She dipped her chin in return, before reaching for a knife to slice into the cake. The icing, blessedly, had stayed intact. She cut off a generous slice, laying it on the delicate floral plate she’d saved especially for the occasion. She gripped it with both hands, hoping they kept steady enough the guests wouldn’t be able to see her own nerves. “For you, my mate.”

The words sounded final, ringing out between them. The golden cord around her ribs vibrated in response. With trepidation , Lucien reached out his hand to take it from her. Elain remembered what he’d told her when she’d asked him his favorite cake, and made a quick decision to shake her head no. Instead, she reached to place her hand against the corner of his jaw. He seemed confused briefly, looking at her doubtfully before he opened his mouth. Elain grabbed a generous chunk of the cake between her fingers, feeding it to him carefully. At last, Lucien’s rakish side took over. He smirked before closing his mouth around her fingers, running his wet tongue over them obscenely before sucking gently. The feel of his warm mouth on her skin spiked her own arousal.

Whether it was the bond driving her, or just seeing Lucien unraveled at last, she didn’t know. Elain surged forward, pulling her fingers slowly out from between his lips, before running her tongue over the icing on the corner of his mouth. Lucien groaned, reaching for her waist, as she moved her face to kiss him properly. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t kissed him until now. His mouth fit perfectly against her own, his lips plush and soft. Elain gasped as she felt his emotions flooding the bond, joy and gratitude and need. Lucien took advantage of her open mouth to slide his tongue inside as he threaded his hand through the hair at the nape of her neck. Elain met his tongue with her own. He kissed the way he did all things, clever and a bit devious, pulling his tongue against her lips before pushing against her more fully. He tasted like lemon and something else addictive and entirely Lucien.

All she could think about was more, touching him, tasting him. Their kiss quickly moved from explorative to desperate, and Elain let out a small keening sound before she remembered they were in a room full of people. A blush rose up her cheeks and she pulled herself away from Lucien slowly, licking her lips as she savored the taste of him. Lucien looked equally overcome, his lips swollen and his pupils blown wide. Not touching him felt impossible. He seemed to feel the same, his hand never leaving the back of her neck.

“You ready to get out of here?” He whispered to her. His breath blew hot against her cheeks. Elain nodded, biting her lip. In truth, she felt ready to combust. She worried if they did not leave soon that she might do something truly improper. Even knowing half of Prythian was watching them, that they were applauding (and some rather uncouth whooping she was sure came from Cassian) only a few feet away, did little to tamp down her arousal. She stood, and Lucien pulled her into his arms. The moment felt bittersweet as she took in one last look at the River House and all their guests. At last, she joined her other hand in his and he winnowed them away with the scent of cinnamon in the air.

#elucien #elucien fic #elain archeron #lucien vanserra

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caliburn-the-sword · 1 year ago

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winter chapters 25-33

figured out how to include and vaguely format photos which i'm including for my favourite passages. tumblr butchered the photos tho so rip it's blurry lol

OMGGGG I COMPLETELY FORGOT ABOUT THE WHOLE HUNTSMAN PLOT FSKDJFHSDFH THIS IS THE EXACT KIND OF DRAMA AND ANGST I LOVE

jacin's low key a gentleman for just wordlessly giving cress the cot and taking the floor instead in his OWN home

HELP THE THOUGHT OF THE RAMPION CREW BEING THE "SEVEN DWARFS" FSFHSDKFJSDHFS (i haven't reread the original fairy tale for a time so forgive me if that's actually just a disneywashed thing)

omg cress is stepping up into her role and being the hero she always wished she was <3 i love her development so much. zero to hero type beat

love to see jacin overcoming being a selfish bitch and promising to protect cress <3 positive development for him too

FINALLY CHAPTER 27 SCARLET I MISSED HER AND HER POV everything scarlet does is literally so slayed. yes girl!! break that bitch's nose!!!

HELP WHY DID I NEVER REGISTER WITH GENETIC ENGINEERING THAT WOLF WOULD ACTUALLY. BE RELATED TO A LITERAL FLESH AND BLOOD WOLF. this is in fact wilder than anything the ouat family tree was ever capable of (and i would know, because i studied that damn thing like the bible)

marissa meyer DON'T DO THIS TO ME. i will always go apeshit over a character being nicknamed "sunshine" ESPECIALLY when he's the furthest thing from a ray of sunshine ever LMAO

love how winter seems to think that the menagerie in front of scarlet's cage is the most romantic spot for jacin to admit his feelings for her. a bit silly goofy

ngl it's literally HEARTBREAKING that winter could think, even for a moment, that jacin would actually follow levana's orders and kill her (note: it was in fact a LOT of moments which makes it more painful)

NO NOT RYU. OMG I NEVER WOULD HAVE THOUGHT RYU WAS THE DEER

damn cress is like a guardian angel <3 she's always been the rampion's guardian angel

"the docks. With the mushrooms" ik that this is just winter's delulu ramblings and trust me i have been painstakingly restraining myself from going "omg alice in wonderland reference" because there's nothing more obnoxious than picking a mentally ill character and defining them by alice in wonderland but in this case,,,,

"Down, down, down we go" look i KNOW i'm reaching here because ANYONE can repeat the word down three times but direct word for word lewis caroll's alice in wonderland "Down, down, down. Would the fall never come to an end?"

jacin clay is so incredibly fucked. the paper trail leading back to him helping the princess in her escape is such a mountable pile of evidence (note: he is in fact not fucked and the queen fell for it)

OMG THE MAN IS WOLF YAYAYAY SCARLET AND WOLF ARE REUNITING I'M SO HAPPY I'M GONNA THROW UP

living for the "Devoured her." metaphor/pun. like yes. that's so little red riding hood fksdfsdkf

wolflet are cancelled for being instalove (jk it says STARTED TO for a reason)

WHAT DID I SAY CRESS???? LITERALLY THE PEAK OF ALL ROMANCE (i used to be hesitant to ship scarlet and winter because of how their relationship started but honestly with the confirmation THAT scene was when she started falling for wolf. i think scarlet is just INTO all that life or death shit. a bit of a masochist in my opinion)

"Are we running a boardinghouse for misplaced royalty around here, or what?" thorne that is SO real LMAO. someone reunite them all with kai asap

speaking of kai he literally CAN'T go ONE damn book without being SEPARATED from everyone. someone stop this before my heart explodes and breaks into a million tiny little pieces

girls girl scarlet makes a comeback

CINDER AND WINTER REUNITED CINDER AND WINTER REUNITED. am going apeshit. what a great note to end tonight's read on (note: was 11pm when i finished chapter 3)

@eddisfargo @francforever @winterrhayle @winterpinetrees @shellyseashell @luna-maximoff-22

#if you want to be added to the tag list just let me know!!#the lunar chronicles #tlc #marissa meyer #cinder linh #carswell thorne #tlc wolf #emperor kai #cress darnel #scarlet benoit #jacin clay #winter hayle blackburn

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rrain-writes · 10 months ago

Text

Rain's LU Febuwhump: Day 9

Bees: Wind

Warnings: Bee stings, self-hatred

Art

Wind was bored. Wild and Hyrule had run off without him, Four and Time were busy, Twilight had disappeared, Sky and Warriors were resting after their injuries in the most recent monster fight, and Legend was snapping at anyone who tried to talk to him.

So Wind decided to go for a walk.

The youngest Link trampled through the forest, swinging his sword and singing sea shanties obnoxiously. If some dumb monsters heard him, at least they’d give him something to do.

“What will we do with a drunken sailor, what will we do with a drunken sailor.”

He his voice hit high and low notes, like he was trying to win an award for the worst musical performance.

“What will we do with a drunken sailor, early in the morning!”

Wind wasn’t sure how far away camp was now, but he didn’t really feel like going back yet.

“Way hay and up she rises, way hay and up she rises, way hay and up she rises- ooh.”

The boy stopped and looked up the tree. Hanging off one of the branches was a strange kind circular thing, and lots of bugs buzzed around it.

Curious, Wind picked up a small rock and aimed high. He hit the thing straight in the middle and cheered.

Wind quieted down. The buzzing was louder. He yelped as the bugs surrounded him, sounding angry.

One flew down and landed on his arm, the spot stinging. Wind flicked it off and inspected the sting. He was distracted by a similar feeling on his another arm.

The bugs began to attack.

Wind yelled out as he ran, calling for help from the weird little creatures. They continued to sting him, his arms legs and face, until he finally seemed to have run far enough away from their nest thing.

Once Wind was sure they had stopped pursuing him, he looked down at his arms and legs and the sting began to kick in.

“Ow, ow, ow.” He whimpered. Most of the bugs had left little pricks in his arms and legs, so he began to painstakingly pull them out.

There wasn’t very many, maybe ten or so, but they still hurt. Wind suddenly thought to look around, and he realised he didn’t know where he was.

“Well shit.” The boy voiced out loud. He’d also managed to loose his sword, so the other heroes wouldn’t be very happy with him.

Still out of breath from running, the sailor decided to rest for a moment before going to look for his brothers. Unfortunately when he went to get up, he was struck by a sudden wave of nausea that made him sink right back down.

Wind groaned. The bugs must of been venomous. Or poisonous. He couldn’t really remember the difference. All that mattered was he was sore, his head hurt, he felt ready to be sick, and he didn’t know where the others were.

Wind mentally scolded himself. No wonder the others thought of him as a burden. To them he was a kid who got lost and injured all the time. His Gran would call him an albatross, slowing them all down.

Wind hated those damn bugs.

#fan fiction #linked universe #lu #wind #lu wind #febuwhump #febuwhump2024 #febuwhumpday9 #bees #bee stings #self-hatred #Rain's LU Febuwhump

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majorxmaggiexboy · 2 years ago

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15 Questions 15 Mutuals

Rules: answer the questions and tag fifteen mutuals

tagged by @beterparker shgjsghjksl!

1. Are you named after anyone?

according to my mother it’s the phonetic spelling (it is not) of Michaela Quinn medicine woman bc she liked the way Sully, specifically, pronounced the woman’s name but she did NOT want people nicknaming me Mike so fast forward to last year when one of my coworkers nicknamed me Mickey,,,,,momsauce was,,,,devastated,,

2. When was the last time you cried?

*Noir Detective Voice* Thursday, January 5th, 2022, hours before being diagnosed with COVID-19 and unknowingly six days into actually having it,,,,,ngl if i was like, a cartoon character, it would have been adorable and i find it infuriating but i fully did the, eyes swimming, valiantly holding back tears, until momsauce looks at me and FLOODGATES AND “I really don’t feel good” AND *STARTS SOBBING*

3. Do you have kids?

yes i have two daughters, Amicia de Rune and Wednesday Addams thank you for asking

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot?

i don’t think what i use even counts as sarcasm, it’s too obnoxious

5. What's the first thing you notice about people?

usually just that they’re in the room

6. What's your eye colour?

brown

7. Scary movies or happy endings?

Happy Endings, though Bittersweet is also good. I like to have my emotions wrung out and turned into a baseball bat which is then used to ALMOST murder me but then the ending turns out to be a highly competent doctor which then Heals Me and waters my crops and builds me a little house in the countryside to live out my days in peace

8. Any special talents?

i think my developing-stories hobby counts as a talent? it doesn’t really qualify as ‘special’, but i do be coming up with some Stuff and can make some pretty big leaps from very small prompts on the fly, which i didn’t realize until a friend pointed it out.

oh, also don’t know if it counts as a talent since there’s no on and off switch on it but irl people tend to come tell me their problems/backstory/any Drama(tm) they have going on even if we’ve barely spoken before that so

9. Where were you born?

A hospital in Alabama

10. What are your hobbies?

Painstakingly outlining stories and then usually not writing them, daydreaming about Blorbos, analyzing fiction, crochet, painting, sewing, a few little videogames.

11. Have you any pets?

YES i have three boys their names are Norrell, Chellers, and Eggroll. Eggroll is actually the eldest, he is gray and fluffy and smaller than the others. He was an outside cat until last August, when we moved and brought him with us. He has been thoroughly enjoying his retirement from the outside cat life. Norrell is SealPoint and Squishy and has big paws and Chellers is a fluffy black cat with no bones, they’re both four. These three are perfect and silly and i love them so much

12. What sports do you play/have played?

I played Red Rover once. OH!! I did paintball once. I think we used to play foursquare fairly frequently.

13. How tall are you?

Last time i was actually measured it was 5′1/2″ but i think it’s more like 5′2″ now, surely.

14. Favorite subject in school?

Originally it was Math but then we hit that part where Math was work and Language Arts was intuitive and it’s been Language/related ever since.

15. Dream job?

Being paid to live as Madame from The Aristocats

Tagging:

@therapardalis, @cutecutejames, @brassandblue, @poploppege, @slow-burn-sally, @castledock, anybody else who would like to!

#jamers i know our mutual friend already tagged you but i'm tagging u too

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wysteriaz-blog · 2 years ago

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Two Worlds Collided & They Could Never Tear Us Apart

Chapter 4: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

Just when some progress is made between the group, another argument sets it back.

Or read the series on Ao3 / Wattpad!

▪︎☆°○°☆ Playlist ☆°○°☆▪︎

After three and a half, painstakingly long, awkward, and silent hours of walking through the forest, the group stumbles upon their destination. It became night just within the last hour of traveling and they're all happy to have finally made it. A house with a wisteria family crest on the doors of the outside wall looms before them in the dark. No one speaks. Not a single word has been spoken since the fight earlier, as they've all been too tired and trapped in their own thoughts. While the embers of anger have already burned out, there was still tension among them.

Tanjiro's crow swoops down and lands in his hands, squawking loudly and flapping its wings. "CA-CAW!! IT'S TIME TO REST! YOU'VE ALL HAD A LONG DAY, REST UP NOWWW!"

"So loud... let's eat that thing," Inosuke mutters lowly, turning his gaze towards the bird.

The crow freezes in its spot at the suggestion before it shoots back up to the sky, squawking and flying away as fast as it can.

Just then one of the doors in front of them opens up to reveal a small elderly woman, who greets them with a polite smile.

"Hello. Should I presume you are all demon slayers?" She asks kindly, her eyes landing on you in Inosuke's arms.

Inosuke shifts you in his arms slightly, feeling a little uncomfortable. You weren't a demon slayer... did she know? Would you be allowed in? Wait, why is he worrying? No, he isn't worrying about you, he's just wondering if it would matter to the woman or not. They all looked pretty beat up and tired. And this lady seemed too hospitable, so surely she wouldn't send you away. That'd be dumb.

They all nod and she smiles again, bowing lightly before guiding them through the door. "Please come in."

They all follow the woman on a stone path leading up to the house. She walks them through the front door and shows them their room with a spare change of clothes and food already prepared. They all stare in surprise, not expecting all of this. It's like she knew they were coming! The smell of the delicious looking food collects all of their attention and they immediately descend upon it. Tanjiro almost yells at Inosuke, as he'd quickly dropped you onto one of the futons on the floor before scrambling back to the table of food. He wasn't completely careless in dropping you though, so he just lets it slide for the time being. They didn't need anymore fighting for today.

They all sit around the small table and begin eating, except Tanjiro, who starts with saving you some before he eats. Zenitsu watches and stops mid-bite before he quickly drops it and reaches over to help, which causes Tanjiro to flash an appreciative smile. Inosuke doesn't notice as he's too focused on shoving as much food as he can down his throat, grinning and cackling happily to himself.

"Use your chopsticks," Zenitsu sighs, finally breaking the silence between them all.

Inosuke just grins more and ignores him, grabbing another piece of food and obnoxiously eating it. After he swallows that piece he snatches one of Tanjiro's, waiting for his reaction. Zenitsu looks shocked and disgusted while Tanjiro looks stupefied at the way he ravenously eats.

"Uhh..." Tanjiro awkwardly grabs a bowl and holds it up to him, trying to smile. "If you're really that hungry, you can have this as well..."

Inosuke furrows his brows and grabs at his hair, groaning loudly before promptly ignoring him to eat some more food aggressively.

Tanjiro just blinks and nods, all of them continuing to eat in silence again. After they finish their meal the old woman comes to clear the table and takes the extra food they saved for you back to be safely stored. She returns a few minutes later and asks them if they would all like to get cleaned up and they agree, following her outside to a bathhouse. She leaves them be and the silence that washes over them is still awkward but more peaceful now as they begin to fully relax. The water is steaming and the warmth soothes their aching muscles as they sink further in. They sigh collectively, closing their eyes while leaning back against the bath walls.

The silence continues for a few more minutes until Tanjiro opens his eyes and clears his throat.

"We need to talk..."

"What about?" Inosuke huffs, throwing his hands behind his head.

Zenitsu frowns in annoyance and mutters under his breath, "Your attitude, for one thing."

"Huh?! Wanna say that again?!"

Tanjiro sighs. "Don't start fighting again. Please, we need to be calm about this."

"He started it!" they yell simultaneously, while glaring at each other.

"It doesn't matter. What matters is that we work together now and help Y/n-san."

"Why should I help?"

"Because you owe her—and me—an apology," Zenitsu scoffs with contempt.

Inosuke puffs air through the nose of his mask and turns his head up. Tanjiro slumps in his spot and looks up momentarily, gathering his thoughts before speaking up again, tone more sharp.

"He is right, Inosuke, you really should apologize. What you did was nearly unforgivable and goes against what the Corps stands for. You not only attacked a fellow slayer but someone completely innocent." His gaze slides back down to find them both staring at him with their full attention. "Y/n-san isn't like us. We're demon slayers and we're strong, but even we get hurt and scared. So, think about how she feels being attacked by not only demons... but people too."

"I.. I didn't know she wasn't one of us! I don't worry about asking questions first. Hesitating for even a second gets you killed where I'm from," Inosuke tries to explain, but even he knows it wasn't an acceptable excuse.

You weren't like a wild animal or something that he needed to worry about when he was living alone on a mountain. He wasn't thinking and was completely out of line. He just can't admit it... yet.

"That doesn't matter," Tanjiro says simply. "If you want to be around people, you have to learn to control yourself and not act impulsively..."

"HAHH—"

"And Zenitsu, you really shouldn't provoke him so much. You aren't helping."

"B-But—" He instantly shuts his mouth when Tanjiro gives him a pointed look. "Okay... yeah, you're right. I apologize..."

They turn to Inosuke and he just stares back. It's really getting on his nerves the way they're looking at him, it's like they're looking down on him. He can't stand being looked down on, like he's lesser than anyone, or some kind of monster—like a demon! He wasn't dumb or weak or some kind of monster! They want an apology? Fine, he can do that and he'll do it better than anyone else!

He turns away, taking a long ragged breath before gritting his teeth and grumbling. "I'm.. s o r r y...!"

Zenitsu slowly smirks. "Huh? What was that? I didn't hear you," he asks, holding a hand up to his ear.

Inosuke glowers at him and huffs loudly through his mask. "I'M NOT SAYING IT AGAIN, SO LISTEN UP! I'M SORRY, ALRIGHT?!"

Zenitsu starts laughing and kicks his feet, splashing Inosuke in the process, who yells and dives across the water to get back at him. Tanjiro can't help but smile watching them splash each other, sort of getting along now. He just hopes it stays this way or gets even better, as they all need to stick together and help each other out. They're comrades but maybe.. they could even be great friends. They haven't completely solved their problems but for now, they'll just enjoy this little moment. After about an hour of them soaking in the water and cleaning up, they get out and get dressed into the clean clothes the woman had provided earlier. They head back out across the estate and shuffle into the house where they find the old woman waiting for them in their room. They all immediately notice one thing as they step inside...

You were gone!

The old woman clears her throat, gaining their attention. "The young lady who was with you had woken up while you were away, so I took care of her."

"Oh, thank goodness. Where is she at?" Zenitsu asks with a tilt of his head.

"She is in the next room over," she chuckles out quietly, having sensed their worries. "Now, it is time for you all to rest. Goodnight."

They watch as she bows once more and slowly walks away, waiting until she turns a corner and disappears from sight before they step out of their room. They slowly tiptoe their way to where the old woman had said you were staying and stop a couple of feet in front of your door. They stay there in silence for a few moments just looking at each other and the door. They're unsure if you're still awake or if you've gone to bed and while they're all very curious, none of them dares to make a move and knock.

They quietly whisper to each other, urging someone to do it, but no one dares to be the one to disturb you. Just as they give up and turn to go back to their room, the door slides open and you peer outside. Zenitsu gets startled by the sudden noise and jumps away while Inosuke freezes in his spot and Tanjiro calmly looks back over his shoulder. Tanjiro's eyes widen when he sees you and he smiles softly.

"Y/n-san, you're awake! I'm glad you're okay," he says warmly, stepping closer.

Zenitsu rushes to stand next to Tanjiro while Inosuke quietly slinks over. You're a little surprised to see them and a bit overwhelmed if you were being honest. You'd only woken up a while ago and everything still hurts, but not as much as before since a kind old lady gave you something to drink when you'd woken up. It'd look like a herbal tea of some kind and she'd offered you food too, but you weren't feeling well, so you politely refused. While everything still hurts, you could at least move a little better now.

The little old lady also led you to another bathhouse on the opposite side of the estate and you took the opportunity to clean up and relax your aching muscles for a bit. You didn't stay in there for long, just taking a couple minutes to freshen up. The woman had stayed nearby to help if needed and once you were done she guided you back to the house, showing you to your own room. You'd sat near a window for a while, staring at the moon and getting lost in thought.

It was a hectic day and you just wanted to go home—wherever that was. You still don't remember anything besides your own name and it's frustrating. Your emotions are all over the place. You were just getting ready to go back to bed when you heard a bunch of footsteps outside your room. After a minute of listening to whoever was out there whispering back and forth, you decided to get up and check it out.

And there you found yourself staring at three awkward men, who now crowd around you.

"HEY!!"

You're startled by the boar man pushing himself into your personal space and you stumble backwards. Inosuke shoves the door open and follows you with his arms crossed. He's staring at you like he has something important to say but you weren't sure since he had his mask on. You have to go by his body language and he seems a little tense and impatient at the moment. You just blink at him while the other two come scurrying inside as well.

"Inosuke, don't shout so loud! And you shouldn't just barge into someone's room like that—especially a woman!" Zenitsu admonishes.

He ignores him and takes a step closer, hands now resting on his hips. "I'm here to apologize, so listen up, because I won't do it again!"

You blink again, not knowing what he's saying and glance over at the other two, hoping they'd be able to help somehow.

"What the hell?! Why isn't she saying anything?"

"She doesn't understand you, remember?"

"Oh yeahhh..." He scratches his head—or well mask—huffing loudly. "How the hell do I apologize then?!"

"I'm sure if you act sincere and show her that you're sorry, she'll understand," Tanjiro suggests kindly with a nervous smile.

"I'm always sincere!"

He glares when Zenitsu snorts and starts snickering at him. He stomps over and threatens to beat the hell out of him again but Tanjiro quickly places a hand on his shoulder and redirects him back towards you, encouraging him to ignore Zenitsu and try again. Inosuke just stands there and grumbles some more under his breath, not quite sure what to do since you don't understand a word he says. How else could he apologize? He's actually never really apologized in his life. All he knows is the words and that they're supposed to make things better but you wouldn't get it. Tanjiro suggested to act sincerely and show you he's sorry... but how is he supposed to do that? Well, he can't use words so he has to show you through actions.

That's right, he's always been better with actions than he has with words, so he'll show you in that way!

He grabs your hand and raises it up, forming it into a fist then guides your fist to his chest before letting go and putting his arms down, showing you that he's giving you the chance to punch him. This is how he'll apologize! He'll let you get back at him. Just this once though. And he wasn't worried about it hurting, it's not like you could do much, you were just a normal girl. But this would surely make you feel better, right?! He puffs a stream of air through his mask proudly. He's a genius!

You just quirk your brow in confusion and let your hand fall, watching as he stands there with his chest puffed out. He wanted you to... hit him? But why? This guy seemed like he wasn't one to let someone attack him without putting up a fight and wasn't willing to lose. Yet here he was, exposing his body to you. You had a feeling that maybe... he was letting you get back at him. In a weird way, it was nice and you appreciated it, but you weren't going to punch him—at least not that hard. With an amused grin you raise your fist back up and lightly punch his chest before stepping away. You didn't really need or want to get back at him. Besides, you'd already scratched him pretty hard earlier and you kind of felt bad about it.

He grunts in confusion and cocks his head down to look at you, wondering why you weren't going all out. Here he is, giving you the chance to punch him with all your might, and you just lightly tap him? What the hell? Did you think you were too good to punch him or something?! He could definitely take it!

You smile at him and nod your head, hoping he'd understand that there were no hard feelings. Sure, he'd been awful before but you believed in second chances and he seemed to be trying—in his own eccentric way.

"HEY—"

He's about to yell at you for thinking you're better than him but immediately stops as you reach for his hand and give it a friendly shake, lightly squeezing it with both of your hands. His eyes follow you as you quickly walk away and dip a piece of cloth into a bowl of water, coming back to gently place it on his shoulder. The old lady had been putting it on your forehead earlier, as you were running a bit of a fever, but she had left it there in case you still needed it.

You place the cloth on the spot where you'd scratched him and dab it a few times. It stings just a little bit but he doesn't show it and remains completely still. He just stands there dumbfounded and lets you gently press it there until you're satisfied and put the cloth back by the bowl. His head is absolutely blank for once and he stops breathing for a moment as he stares straight at a wall.

"Hu—wahhh~..."

You go to Tanjiro and Zenitsu, smiling at them and then bow down like they had done so many times before. Then you very timidly and awkwardly wrap your arms around their shoulders in a small and quick hug before stepping away. You hoped it was the right thing to do, you didn't know how else to show your gratitude. They were all here to check on you and you greatly appreciated it. At first you had wanted to be left alone.. but you realized you actually didn't want that, you were just overwhelmed. What you needed was a little time to process things, but you needed people to be there for you still.

And these three men were here, checking on you and keeping you company, even though there were few bumps in the road. They've helped you and quite literally saved your life a few times. You owed them a lot. They were good people and you wanted to continue sticking by their sides, you wanted to do whatever you could to help them in return. Zenitsu looks owlish and has a tinge of pink dusting his cheeks, while Tanjiro just has a soft smile playing on his lips.

Zenitsu sighs. "Wow, she's.. so nice—she must be an angel. If I'm being honest though, I'm actually a little upset..."

"Why is that?" Tanjiro asks curiously, but immediately regrets doing so.

"BECAUSE THAT PIG GOT TO HAVE HIS HAND HELD BY HER!!!" He screeches, throwing his body around while pulling at his hair. "HE DESERVED TO BE BEATEN TO A PULP BUT SHE JUST TOOK CARE OF HIM—THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS!! I WANT TO HOLD HANDS WITH HER AND BE TAKEN CARE OF, I GOT HURT TOO!! WHY DOES HE GET TO BE ALL CUTE WITH HER?!? IM GONNA—"

Tanjiro chops the back of his neck, effectively cutting him off as he hits a nerve and Zenitsu makes a weird face as he flops over.

"How many times do I have to tell you to stop this nonsense? Y/n-san showed care for us too. You're being a bit dramatic again, don't you think?"

Zenitsu just groans and Tanjiro lifts him by the back of his collar, slinging his other arm around Inosuke's shoulders, who just stumbles beside him. He leads them out the door and bows to you a few times with an apologetic smile. You can't help but laugh under your breath. Like usual, you have no clue what's going on but it's amusing all the same and they've definitely lifted your mood up a bit. You close your door and crawl onto the futon on the floor, snuggling into the comforter.

Tanjiro brings Inosuke and Zenitsu into their room and slides the door shut. He lets Inosuke go and sets Zenitsu on a futon, turning around to see Inosuke still frozen but seeming to come out of it as his hand twitches. He chuckles and eases the box off his back and pushes it to a corner, tiredly walking back to sit on his own futon. Inosuke finally snaps out of whatever stupor he was in and looks around, grunting as he spots Tanjiro.

"Wait... Monjiro, where'd that girl go?"

"Huh? Who are you talking to?"

"You of course!"

"No you're not! I already told you my name, it's Tanjiro Kamado."

Inosuke stares at him and says with complete seriousness, "Alright, Gonpachiro Kamaboko. Where'd she go?"

Tanjiro sighs in exasperation and just smiles tiredly. "She's in her room. We were just there. We should leave her alone and let her rest now."

"Fine," he huffs. "What's her name?"

"Why don't you ask her yourself, tomorrow morning?"

"But she doesn't understand me!" he groans, throwing his hands up.

"I'm sure if you tried hard enough, she'd understand what you're trying to say. Zenitsu and I have done it, so I'm sure you can too. We did say her name before, by the way... do you not remember?"

Inosuke pauses, not remembering them saying your name. He was really bad with names. He could barely get Santaro and Kenitsu's name right.

"Aughh, no! Why won't you just tell me?!"

"Because I think it'll be good for you. She seemed to forgive you earlier, even if your way of apologizing was a little odd..." He scratches his cheek but smiles encouragingly at him. "You almost had it, Inosuke! You should give it another try!"

Inosuke grits his teeth. "Don't tell me what to do!!"

"How about we just go to sleep now...?"

Inosuke huffs and grumbles some more as he stomps to his own futon. He grabs a pillow and chucks it at Zenitsu's face, who doesn't react to the impact as he's already dead asleep and snoring soundly. Inosuke wanted to throw it at Tanjiro but he decided at the last second to smack Zenitsu with his pillow instead. It did make his snoring a little quieter. He lays down and spreads his arms and legs out, sighing as he stares at the ceiling. Tanjiro rolls onto his side and closes his eyes, slowly falling asleep. Inosuke stays there and listens to their slowed breaths for a while before getting out of his bed. He looks over to make sure the other two are still sleeping before he sneaks outside of the room and over to yours. He carefully presses his head to the door and strains his ears for any sounds but doesn't hear anything but more soft breathing.

Damn it.. you were already asleep, too.

It was really bothering him that the other two knew your name but he didn't! He was told you should be left alone and that he should ask for your name in the morning but since when does he listen to anyone? He never really has before and he certainly won't start now! He almost barges into your room to demand that you tell him your name. But his hands stop suddenly and his head aches a little.

He remembers what Zenitsu told him about barging into rooms and how Tanjiro told him you needed to rest. He drops his hands and huffs, cursing them for getting into his head. He isn't one to hesitate and will do anything he wants, when he wants, but since meeting you three he's been made to think about things more than he would have before. He feels like he's been told nothing but 'do this—don't do that' and it was really annoying. He isn't used to it and doesn't like it but it was a bit of a challenge... and he does like challenges. He feels so conflicted.

He curses some more under his breath and paces around until your door suddenly opens. He stops in his tracks and slowly turns to face you, almost holding his breath as you blink at him, brows scrunching together. You both just stand there for a few moments, neither of you quite sure what to say or do. You finally decide to break the silence and figure out what the masked man was doing up still. You open the door more and he drops his hands from where they were hanging in the air. He doesn't make a sound or move a single muscle as you step outside the door and eye him curiously.

"Hey," you greet quietly, "...something wrong?"

You don't know why you asked, it wasn't like he would understand. And you can't tell what he could possibly be thinking because of his mask. The boar mask eyes are so beady and emotionless, it's a little creepy and you wonder why he wore it. It can't be because he's ugly—he was far from it— so why did he wear it? Maybe that'll be another question for you to find out someday, but it could wait as you have more important questions to be answered first.

He barely tilts his head and a slight puff of air escapes his mask. Neither of you could understand each other, so it was going to be difficult to communicate. He watches as you timidly step closer and waits to see what you'll do next but you stop, looking unsure of yourself. It was already hard trying to understand the other two sometimes, all you had was body language. But this man was so boar-ish in nature, he was extremely aloof and you couldn't read his face at all because of the mask, so what hope did you have of understanding him?

You mindlessly play with your fingers as you think of how you're going to communicate, trying hard to work up the courage, but he surprises you by speaking quietly for the first time... although still a little gruff around the edges.

"What's your name, lady?"

You blink and furrow your brows in concentration as you desperately try to think of what he just said. It sounded like a question and it sounded a little familiar.. but worded differently. Then it clicks. You've been asked this a few times before, by Tanjiro and Zenitsu, when they were trying to learn your name!

You point to yourself, tapping your sternum as you carefully say, "Y/n."

He grunts in response and you aren't sure if that means he understood you or not. Wait, did you get it wrong? Possibly... but no matter, you wanted to try and keep this going while he was still calm. He wordlessly watches as you point at him, saying something back to him. You also asked for his name but he has no clue what you said, so he just frowns under his mask and stays quiet as you look at him expectantly. You start to feel a little awkward the longer you stand there staring at each other, no words being exchanged. He hasn't said anything else and you don't know what he's thinking. You debate whether you should just go back to your room now or maybe try to talk to him some more. Who knows if you'd get another chance to talk to him in such a peaceful manner.

But he decides for you by nonchalantly turning and walking away. Without even thinking you reach out and grab onto the fur of his pants. He stops and knocks your hand away, quickly facing you and standing defensively. You bring your hand back and hold it close to you, startled at how fast he reacted.

"I-I... I'm sorry," you squeak, slightly bowing your head down. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable or angry.. I just wanted to talk and—"

The more he listens to you quietly ramble on, the more his muscles relax as he remembers that you weren't a threat at all. You aren't from here and weren't like them—you're just a normal girl. He notices you take a few tiny steps back, obviously nervous now. You were definitely more wary around him and were putting distance between you both... but you didn't run away from him. You probably should have, but you were much braver (or maybe dumber) than you looked.

He suddenly strides closer and you stand rigid as he slowly circles around you. You hold your breath, your nervousness bubbling even more as he comes to a stop in front of you and leans in, the snout of his mask inches from your face. He observes you closely under the mask then leans back crossing his arms. He's not really great at reading people, not in the way of thoughts and feelings, but he is good at reading energy.

Even through your nerves he could sense your energy was very light. He didn't sense any strong negativity of any kind, which he was pretty curious about. You were really odd. The same could be said for Tanjiro, as you were both sort of similar, you were much more kind and patient than most other people. Had it been anyone else, he's sure they wouldn't have hesitated to punch him and fight back after he had attacked them. He gave you the chance to do just that earlier but you didn't take it. While Tanjiro did fight him, he was reluctant to do so and wouldn't continue the fight after it ended the first time either. And Zenitsu... he was another story of weirdness that he didn't really want to get into.

You were all weird—interesting—but weird.

He isn't one to be around people for long.. but maybe he'll stick around this time. He had to admit he was really impressed with Tanjiro's headbutt and wanted to know how he did it. He held some respect for him as he was no doubt strong. He wants to be as strong as him—no even stronger! He also wanted to actually fairly fight with Zenitsu to see what he was really made of, as he had a feeling there was more to him than he put out. And like the others, he wanted to know why and how you were here. He blinks his thoughts away before they could get any deeper, his head kind of hurt after everything they've all been through.

You stop rambling when you realize he'd leaned into your space again.

"You sure talk a lot, for someone so quiet," he remarks with a light huff.

You stare at him but your eyes shift to a point past him and widen when you see another figure standing ominously in the dark. He notices and turns around, spotting the figure and tensing up as it makes its way closer. Your heart starts pounding in your chest, thinking it may be something dangerous. You don't think you could handle another monster trying to kill you. You almost run away in complete panic as it gets closer, but relief floods your system when you realize what—or who—it was.

"What are you doing out here alone with Y/n-chan?" Zenitsu grumbles suspiciously, voice still ladled with sleep. "I heard something... and I'm glad I checked, you're obviously up to no good."

"Huhh.." He slowly faces Zenitsu and growls threateningly. "What's that supposed to mean? You wanna fight, Monitsu?!"

"No! No way! Didn't you learn anything from your fight with Tanjiro?"

"C'mon, quit being a coward and fight me! You came out here for a reason, didn't you?!"

Things were escalating way too quickly all of sudden and you were getting worried about them fighting again, waking anyone else up, and hurting each other. Just as the man with the boar mask takes a step towards Zenitsu you reach out and grab his hand, squeezing it as you pull him back. He makes a disgruntled noise as he's suddenly dragged back. His gaze flicks down to where you're holding onto his hand and he pulls it away, flinging yours back with the quick movement, then looks back up to your face.

He's still tense but he's completely quiet and still as he regards you. You're pleading for him to not do anything, hoping he could see it in your eyes. You'd seen enough blood and pain today. You don't know why he was so aggressive a lot of the time, or what Zenitsu said to set him off in this very moment, but you knew he was a good person deep down and maybe he just needed a little help in the right direction.

You give a wobbly smile, hoping he would understand you were just trying to help and keep the peace.

"Y/N-CHAN, YOU SHOULDN'T BE NEAR HIM," Zenitsu protests loudly, speeding over and getting into between you both. He grabs your hand, twisting and turning it worriedly. "Did he hurt you again?! Here, I'll take you back to your room."

Zenitsu yelps when Inosuke shoves him out of the way and snatches your hand back into his before snarling out, "I didn't do anything to her!"

Zenitsu grabs your other hand. "I don't trust you, I saw you grab and throw her hand away!"

"You saw it wrong! She grabbed onto me and I don't like people just doing that," he grits out.

You're being pulled between them now, grimacing as they both tug you from side to side. You tried to interject but they were too caught up in arguing with each other to notice your discomfort.

"Fine, if that's the case then let go of her," Zenitsu demands.

"No, you let go!"

"You're way too rough—you'll hurt her again! She needs to rest, so let me take her back to her room."

"No, I won't! I can take her back, so you let go!"

"She doesn't want you to!"

"How do you know?! She's the one who grabbed my hand first—not yours—so, that must mean she wants me to take her back, because she knows I'm stronger!"

Zenitsu starts sparking, sending little tingles through your hand on one side and Inosuke growls, the sound traveling from his chest and vibrating all the way to your other hand. Oh dear... is this how you were going to actually die? Not by the hands of some monster, but between two equally loud, raging, uncontrollable men?!

You try to gain their attention again but it's like you aren't even there anymore, but an idea quickly comes to mind and you hope it worked. You relax and let your body suddenly drop in between them, letting your dead weight bring you down. It works as they both gasp and catch you from falling all the way, holding onto your arms to keep you slightly lifted, but your head lolls forward so they quickly set you down.

"W-WHAT DID YOU DO?!" Zenitsu screeches dramatically.

"I didn't do anything! Maybe YOU did something!"

They crouch and kneel right next to you laying on the ground and you slow your breathing down as much as possible. You almost crack a smile as you listen to Zenitsu's voice get even higher and more panicked sounding. It was a bit of a mean trick... but it was funny and they kind of deserved it. You're curious if this will work and get them to stop arguing about who knows what.

"AHHH, WHAT DO WE DO?! IS SHE DYING?!?"

Someone starts prodding you and shaking your shoulder and you try your best to not react and laugh. You feel something furry drop next to your hand and slightly tense up, holding your breath with your heart pounding again when you feel something also plop onto your chest without any warning. There's a deafening shriek and the pressure is quickly removed.

"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!?!"

"Well, she isn't dying. She's still breathing fine, and I can hear her heartbeat," Inosuke states as he grabs his mask, putting it back on.

"Keep your filthy hands and head to yourself!!!"

"I was making sure she wasn't dead, since you were making such a fuss about it! What's your problem now?!"

"My problem is that you keep touching her and it's really pissing me off!!"

Inosuke snorts and states matter-of-factly, "You're just whining because she grabbed my hand and not yours. What's the big deal, anyways? I'm just stronger, so naturally someone will want me close by to help them."

"No, I'm not whining! And that is not the reason at all, she only did that to stop you from doing anything! You try to maul someone when they even look at you, so do you really think she'd want to grab your hand otherwise?!"

"Whatever! Like she'd want to grab yours either! You're always yelling and crying like a big baby," he retorts, sticking his nose up.

You peek an eye open, sensing things are heating back up again so you start moving your hands and groan quietly. They stop their bickering once they notice you trying to sit up. Zenitsu grabs your elbow and helps you up and you purse your lips as you look between them.

"Y/n-chan, are you okay?" Zenitsu fusses over you, scooting close and wrapping an arm around yours. "That was scary, I thought something bad happened to you! A-Are you feeling alright? Are you sick?!

You blink at him and smile awkwardly, patting his arm in reassurance, which seems to settle him down a little. You look over to see the masked man just sitting there and staring, so you give a thumbs up but he doesn't do anything. You all stand up and Zenitsu grabs your hand again but Inosuke is quick to grab your other one. They stare at each other in silence and you can feel the tension rising.

Oh no... not again! What are they even fighting about?! Why did you seem to be caught in the middle of it?

"I thought I made it clear that we need to respect Y/n-san more... but I see we need to have another talk."

You all turn to the new voice to see Tanjiro standing off to the side, his expression is calm but still very much intimidating. It was like a storm hidden beneath gentle waves. How long has he been standing there? Zenitsu straightens up and Inosuke slightly stiffens, both of their hands immediately dropping yours. Tanjiro's eyes are sharp as he regards them but soften as they shift to you. He walks over smiling as he places a warm hand on your arm, leading you back to the door of your room. He bows his head to you at the entrance, bidding you a goodnight as you slowly close the door.

You stand there for a few seconds with your head feeling scrambled as you try to make sense of things. You seriously wish you could understand them, this was driving you crazy! One second they're all nice and peaceful and then the next second they're at each other's throats, looking like they're ready to tear limbs apart. You walk back to your bed and lay down, pulling the covers over you.

Today was pretty confusing, sad, and even scary at some points but it also had some pretty interesting moments. You may not know where you're at or how you got here but there's one thing you do know now—you were supposed to meet them. You don't know why, but you get this feeling that something awaits you in the future and that they would be a part of it. Hopefully things will get better and sooner rather than later. Or else these boys just might actually make you lose your marbles, if the monsters or other strange things don't do it first.

Now that you've gone back to bed Tanjiro turns and walks past the other two and they silently follow him back to their room. Tanjiro doesn't acknowledge them at all as they walk inside and just gets back in bed, turning his back to them and going to sleep. They wordlessly get back into their own beds and stare at the ceiling in silence. They messed up big time.

"I think we're dead..." Zenitsu whispers quietly.

☽☼☾☽☼☾☽☼☾

Taisho Secrets

* Inosuke is very competitive and prideful, he likes to prove to himself and others that he is just as capable and strong (if not more) as others. He hates being told what he can or can't do. He actually believes that Zenitsu thinks he's inferior, which is why he argues and fights back so much, especially when Zenitsu tries to get in between him interacting with you. Inosuke isn't fighting Zenitsu over you, it's more like he's fighting him because he's trying to show he's just as good as he is, or even better!

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darlingstarbby · 2 years ago

Text

twinkling with the stars | chapter one

chapter one

Remus Lupin learned how to tie his shoes at five years old. He’d watched covertly as one of the latchkey teachers helped another student do her own. He spent the next week sitting on the steps of the front porch, his stuffed cat Milo sat beside him, fingers chaffing as he painstakingly walked himself through the steps; muttering the poem (“over, under, around and through, meet Mr. Bunny Rabbit, pull and through”) under his breath, trying valiantly to ignore the shouts coming from inside his house.

By the end of the week he was able to tie his shoes (though the laces always had a tendency to come undone before the days end, no matter how tight he made them), a feat his mom never noticed as she buckled him into his seat in their little blue sedan in the middle of the night; still in his pajamas, rubbing his eyes with one hand as he clutched onto Milo with the other. That was the first time Remus could remember his mom sneaking them out under the cover of darkness, but it wasn’t the last.

Now, thirteen years later, Remus is sat in the passenger seat of a rental car, his Aunt Ruby in the drivers seat. His mom long gone and the laces of his right Converse unraveling.

Los Angeles is very warm for late August. Remus thinks, fleetingly, that it might have been a bad idea to pack so many of his sweaters. He and Aunt Ruby sit in silence, watching crowds of his future classmates and their families carry boxes and furniture across the campus. Remus has no furniture; just two suitcases full of clothes, toiletries, and two new bed sets and a backpack stuffed to bursting with all of his books and school things, including the laptop Aunt Ruby got him for graduation. He even sees one dark-skinned guy with glasses toting around a surfboard—bright turquoise on top with black and white stripes on the bottom. It’s about a good two feet longer than he is.

“You have your meds, right?” Aunt Ruby asks as they watch the surfer guy try and get the seven-foot board through the entrance of the building. After a moment of struggling, a red-headed girl rushes up to help, holding one end while the guy scans into the door. “And the info for your doctor?”

Remus pats the canvas of his backpack, stuffed between his knees in the footwell. “All right here,” he replies, giving his aunt a reassuring smile.

Her dark brown hair, streaked with grey, is tucked underneath an obnoxiously large sunhat. She’s sweltering in her own seat, wearing light denim overalls with a white t-shirt and her sneakers. If Remus couldn’t see the backdrop of palm trees behind her, he’d almost imagine they were back in North Carolina, sitting on the porch drinking sweet tea after a morning of gardening with their French Bulldog Sandy. A pang goes through him at the thought; he’s going to miss gardening with Aunt Ruby and Sandy. They’d just planted a bunch of Veronica that spring that should be blooming any day now. Remus had made Aunt Ruby promise to send pictures once they had.

“Are you sure you don’t need help getting to your dorm?” Aunt Ruby asks, eyes full of poorly disguised worry.

Remus smiles. “You’ll miss your flight.”

They’d only gotten in the morning before, only able to afford one night together at a hotel. Aunt Ruby’s salary as a high school art teacher was decent for Asheville, but not well-suited for LA. Remus’ school things had already cost them an arm and a leg; it was lucky he’d earned enough scholarships to put a sizable dent in his tuition cost. Though what was leftover was being paid for with his inheritance. However meager it was.

“Fuck my flight,” Aunt Ruby deadpans, causing Remus to sputter out a laugh. He’s always loved how she treats him as an equal. Swear jars were nonexistent in their household, much to his teachers’ consternation. “If you need me I’ll sleep on the floor of your dorm until you kick me out.”

“Don’t know if my roommate would like that much,” Remus replies.

Roommate.

That’s something Remus is definitely going to have to get used to. As an only child and a self-made social pariah, Remus hasn’t had much experience being in close quarters with kids his own age. He’s a naturally introverted person; quiet, reserved, more inclined to burrow into his bed with a book than socialize. He’s also a bit moody and quick to anger and, when he’s in one of his funks, he can be, according to Aunt Ruby, a bit of a nightmare to live with. He hopes his roommate doesn’t take too much offense to that.

His roommate. Sirius Black.

Remus received the name and contact details of his roommate weeks ago and he presumes Sirius received the same email as him. But he must be as hesitant—Remus refuses to say nervous—as Remus is, because the other boy hasn’t reached out. Granted, neither has Remus, but that’s to be expected. As stated previously, he’s a self-made pariah.

As if reading his thoughts, Aunt Ruby reaches out and squeezes Remus’ knee reassuringly. “It’s gonna be okay, hun. You’re going to meet so many amazing people and have so much fun that you won’t even want to come home for Christmas. You’ll see.”

Remus offers her a small smile, despite the fact he doesn’t believe her. He’ll be lucky if someone says two words to him without deeming him a waste of space afterward. The smile seems to mollify Aunt Ruby, who jerks her head towards the back of the car, where Remus’ stuff is taunting him. The anchor at the end of his rope. “C’mon, let’s get you to college.”

***

The building they’ve got him in is co-ed and packed to bursting with life. Already there are people scattered across all of the surfaces of the common area, talking and laughing and—in some cases—passing questionable-smelling substances back and forth. Remus can hear what sounds like an entire football team worth of girls giggling and squealing in the kitchen. The claustrophobic atmosphere is giving him a headache and making his skin crawl. He’s quick to hitch his backpack higher on his shoulder and maneuver himself and his suitcases towards the, thankfully, less crowded stairs. Remus is on the third floor, a fact that’s been making him nervous ever since he found out.

Aunt Ruby was all ready to pitch a fit with the school in order to get him a room on the ground floor, but Remus wouldn’t let her. He wasn’t about to start his college career being known as that asshole who got special treatment before even stepping foot on campus. Instead, Remus has been carefully training his body by taking walks every morning. At first, the constant aching of his muscles and joints made the walks unbearable; he was lucky to get to the end of the block without keeling over. However, each day it got easier and easier; the fresh air cleared his head and his lungs, the constant motion of his body left less time for his legs to cramp up, and he often arrived back at the house feeling as if he’d walked himself right into a new body. Of course, the hot baths he often found himself in afterward helped too. He’d have to get used to not having that luxury now.

The crowds of people get thinner the higher he climbs, though noise follows him wherever he goes. People running from room to room introducing themselves or apologizing as they maneuver boxes and furniture through the halls. Someone’s blaring Kid Cudi on the second floor and Remus cringes; yeah, there’s a lot he’s going to have to get used to. Including his peers’ terrible taste in music.

By the time he makes it to the third floor, Remus is panting and sagging from the weight of his bags and the noise from the bottom two floors has lessened to a dull throbbing in the back of his skull. It is, blessedly, almost barren up here with only a few doors open and quiet conversation drifting out from their rooms. Remus takes a moment to compose himself before he makes his way down the hall, examining each door to find his own. He finds it about four doors from the end of the hall, where a window is cracked open while a red-headed guy with snakebites is leaning against the wall with a cigarette dangling from his lips. Remus offers a polite nod that’s returned before he turns to his door; 7G, reads the brass plaque and, on the slip of paper taped underneath it: Remus Lupin & Sirius Black.

Remus takes in a deep breath and opens the door.

The room is average size, maybe a bit smaller than his own room at home, but made smaller by the furniture stuffed inside. Two beds are pressed against either wall, raised up to accommodate the drawers and shelves underneath, with a window overlooking the courtyard between them. There’s two small, slightly worn in looking desks bracketing the doorway, both with shelves above them ready for textbooks and knickknacks. Under the window, in the cramped space between both beds, are two nightstands knocking against one another with even more drawer space. The one on the right is already claimed, taken up by an odd looking object that might be a lamp; the shade a wonky diamond shape with little holes that’s shapes are indistinguishable from Remus’ position in the doorway.

In fact, the entire right side of the room is already claimed. It seems as if Sirius Black has already come and gone.

The bed is made up with midnight blue sheets and an orange pleated quilt that looks as if its seen better days. Above the headboard is a framed picture of a constellation that Remus can’t name and the far right wall is absolutely covered in canvases, papers, and framed photos of various sizes. The canvases and papers all depict different sea creatures in a combination of mediums: blue whales in paints (Remus isn’t quite skilled enough in the arts to tell the difference between oils and acrylics, not for lack of trying on Aunt Ruby’s part), an octopus in what appears to be charcoal, harbor seals and sea turtles in delicate watercolors. There’s one small painting, however, that just shows a massive wave with a small figure surfing. They’re all bright, vibrant, and lovingly crafted. His textbooks are stacked haphazardly on the desk, next to an ancient-looking vinyl record player. There’s a wooden milk crate at the end of the bed that holds a small collection of vinyls; Remus can just make out the cover of one, stark white with a giant banana on it.

Sirius has, apparently, made himself quite at home already. Remus tries not to think about how the only things he brought from home to decorate his room are his favorite books and two framed photos. One of himself and Aunt Ruby sitting on the front steps of the house shortly after he came to live with her and one of his mother at about twenty years old, before she married his father and had him. She looks so happy and carefree in the picture, smiling and exuding life in a way that Remus can’t ever remember seeing.

Squaring his shoulders, Remus walks the rest of the way into the room and leaves the door slightly cracked behind him. He makes quick work of unpacking, emptying all of his clothes into the drawers under the bed and stuffing his toiletry bag into one of the shelves. His textbooks and books from home go on the shelf above the desk, his notebooks for school and his personal journals in the drawers, his laptop and charger carefully positioned in the center of the desk. The two framed photos go on the nightstand, his meds in the top drawer. Making his bed up with the new sheets is a bit of a challenge, seeing as its so high up, but Remus manages; smoothing the butter-yellow fabric meticulously and tucking the corners of the dove grey comforter in tightly. His stuffed black cat, Milo, who’s missing a chunk of one ear and an eye now, gets set delicately between his pillow and the wall, hidden from keen eyes.

After his suitcases are empty and his backpack is just filled with the textbooks he’ll need for his first classes, Remus kicks the bags into a corner and takes a book from his shelf, climbing to rest on his freshly made bed. He opened the window a crack to let in a breeze when he got too hot while unpacking and now the sounds of students yelling and laughing while they run across campus drifts up into the otherwise quiet room. He settles back against his pillows and cracks open his book, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, letting the early summer breeze lull him into another world.

He gets in a decent half hour of reading and the noise outside has settled down to a low murmur, everyone busy getting settled in their dorms. Remus is just thinking of grabbing his bag to explore, possibly find the mess hall to get something to eat since he’s not had anything since breakfast at the hotel, when a stampede of footsteps sounds from out in the hall and he’s startled out of his reading by a loud bark of laughter. “Prongs,” the laughing voice says, sounding breathless—Remus abruptly goes breathless as well, he’s never heard such a…musical voice before. It sounds like sleigh bells and stardust. “You hit her with your surfboard?”

“It was an accident!” Another, deeper, voice whines, though not without its own shred of amusement.

“Just—outright whacked her in the head with it, Pads, it was the funniest fucking thing I’ve ever seen.” This voice is gleeful and mischievous. And getting closer. Remus climbs down from his bed and collects his things, stuffing his book and laptop in his backpack and making sure his wallet is deep in his pocket. If he’s quick he can slip past the boys before they get the urge to start a conversation. They seem like a chatty bunch.

“Oh, I’m sure I’ll see it next time,” the musical voice chortles. “You know James is practically married to that board. He’ll probably end up taking it to classes!”

“I will not, you dick,” James says. James, so not Remus’ roommate. Small mercies; he doesn’t think a surfboard would fit very well with everything else in the room.

“Lord, I’m gonna be tripping over that thing all year,” the third voice groans and the first voice laughs again.

“You’re the one who decided to room with him! You know what he’s like! But it’s not too late to swap if you want to, Pete. I’ve been whacked with James’ surfboard enough times to know when to duck.”

“Is that a euphemism?” Pete asks, sounding genuinely curious.

“Nice try, Sirius,” James replies and Remus freezes where he stands with his hand on the doorknob. Sirius. Sirius is the boy with the musical voice. His roommate. Who…appears to not want to be his roommate. Fair enough; Remus didn’t want a roommate either, but freshmen, unfortunately, had no choice in the matter.

“Listen,” Sirius huffs. He’s close. Too close. They’re right outside the door. Remus is not going to get away without having a Conversation. “I’m sure the guy won’t mind; he’s not said two words to me all summer.”

Remus frowns. Oh, hello Pot, meet Kettle.

“Besides, he sounds like a pushover anyway. I mean, what kind of name is Remus? I bet he’s a loser. He won’t be any trouble for you, Peter.”

I bet he’s a loser. I bet he’s a loser. I bet he’s a loser.

Oh, so that’s Sirius Black. Connoisseur of cool and the self-made king of the court. Remus has met him many times, in many variations, throughout his life. He knows how to handle bullies; this year is going to be a cakewalk.

“Sirius!”

“What?!”

“The door!”

It’s as the door gets pushed all the way open that Remus remembers he’s still holding the knob and he steps back hastily in order not to get smacked in the face. He’s met by three figures, each with wide eyes and two with embarrassed expressions. The third looks as if he wishes the floor would swallow him whole.

The guy in the middle is tall—though not as tall as Remus—and dark-skinned, with messy black hair and hazel eyes hidden behind thick rimmed square glasses. He’s dressed in khaki shorts and a tight red t-shirt. Remus recognizes him as the guy with the surf board he saw earlier, so he must be James.

The boy to his left is shorter, stocky, with blonde hair in a Justin Bieber style. He’s got round, kind blue eyes and plump rosy cheeks. He’s gnawing on his bottom lip hard enough to turn it red and looking between the third guy and Remus with an anxious expression. So, this must be Peter.

And the third figure. Oh, the third figure nearly has Remus’ knees falling out from under him. Cause this must be Sirius Black, there’s no way it couldn’t be.

He’s thin and pale, decked all in black; leather jacket and Doc Martens on as if it’s not hot enough to cook an egg on the pavement outside. He’s got long, black hair pulled back in a ponytail on top of his head and, what appears to be, a paintbrush tucked behind his ear. His cheekbones are high and prominent, his nose dainty and upturned, full lips begging to be bloodied. He’s got multiple earrings, rings on his fingers, and tattoos peeking out of the collar of his shirt. He’s the Bad Boy incarnate. A walking wet dream.

But the thing that really takes Remus’ breath away are his eyes. Oh, his eyes. They’re the lightest shade of grey Remus has ever seen; mercurial, almost like starlight, and framed with impossibly thick eyelashes. It’s not fair that someone as rude and judgmental as him gets to be this beautiful, but that’s the world Remus lives in.

“Oh, fuck,” Sirius breathes, cheeks going red with mortification.

James offers a weak smile and wave. “Hello, you must be Remus.”

Remus, still staring Sirius down, nods. “Yeah, that’s me, the loser.”

Sirius’ grey eyes close. “Oh, fuck.”

#twts #twinkling with the stars #chapter one #remus lupin #sirius black #modern au #college au #marauders #james potter #peter pettigrew #james darling #jemjamjames #jamesddarling #ao3 fanfic

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arsynnotarson · 3 months ago

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Do you have any source-related thoughts/opinions you’d be willing to share? I’m particularly curious about your thoughts on people from your source, but anything you’re willing to share is fine

thanks for asking!!!

i assume you mean on the fellows in the festival, or on the festival as a whole? ill be covering both. its a long read, so prepare yourself, hah.

personally, concerning the festival, it was a bloodbath, as expected. i was used to seeing blood used for religious purposes like face engraving and ritualistic cutting, but since i grew up in prehevil-- while not great better than nothing--i wasnt used to murder being everywhere and expecting to be murdered. prehevil was a chore to be in, people being gloomy, not much going on besides religion and school, but killings werent on your front doorstep... atleast daily, that is.

back to termina, it was terribly stressful. if my hair wasnt already white when i arrived, it surely would have been that way if when i left (actually, there were white streaks in my hair, not entirely white, so thats a half-lie, haha.) you didn't know who to trust, what was around you, and what your enemy was capable of. its a miracle i survived it all, even against perkele. fog was oppressive, it was a labyrinth through the very few buildings that were still able to be entered, and puzzles that made me feel more miniscule than i already was.

about the others, id love to anecdote.

pav: pervy, obviously. obnoxious in many ways you can probably point out if you play my source material. loud often, and his favorite place to bark orders at us was in closed spaces. we didnt get to know eachother well, since i avoided him when i could for the aforementioned reasons. he was a hot-headed looney toon with abiut 4 good jokes, to summarize. used his looks to advantage, too.

osaa: we didnt speak much, and when we interacted or i had the audacity to approach him, itd be in small, surface-level conversation with unmistakable judgemental glares sent my way. i think there was a reason sometimes. although he was very smart, he was painstakingly independent. whether or not the headaches were from him or nashrah, i know he had something to do with it.

abella: very nice when she wasnt hiding the solutions to ciphers; thats my primary gripe with her, but besides that very kind. loved to pick flowers with olivia, and especially liked the red hues of nature, from the deep sunset to the maroon herbs. did not like the blood, though.

olivia: also a pleasure to be around. tried to help whenever she could, but is like a bit osaa in terms of being a lone wolf. she was reluctant to accept help, but a little awkward buttering up from marcoh, logic from me, and passive pressure from daan, she eventually took it. i think she may have gifted more herbs to certain people she favored, but the ones who got less didnt realize. also made very rare comments about others that sounded rude, but they were so cryptic no one could say what her intention was.

tanaka: didnt get to know him much. the fandom is pretty accurate with the unlucky streak, it was the little comedy we had in the hellscape, even if it did come from the same man falling over the same root in the ground for the 5th time. he was respectful to others as i expected from a man in a suit, but there were times where his anger would peek through when frustrated, like clenching his fists or tugging on the hem of his jacket while clenching his teeth. traded glasses with olivia when his inevitably broke with much hesitance.

marcoh: such a sweetie. a little stiff when it came to social interaction, but once the urgency picked up he stepped out of his comfort zone. caligura thought him and tanaka were dating and i think he prayed for them; not out of the kindness of his heart, though. didnt like fighting others, yes, but when it came down to protecting the only sane people he had arrived with, he did enough to keep them out of our hair.

levi: surprisingly entertaining if he liked you. he was very coy during withdrawal, running, and while it went down after he got it fix, it took a few hours for him to fully grasp the fact we werent there to kill him. maybe its because we grew up in the same area, but his sense of humor really appealed to me. nearly had me crying in the cabin when we hung out while others were out. i had to clear up that i dont know samarie too since he was subtly but very obvious he didnt like being stared at by a mysterious stranger any time he wants to talk to me at all.

samarie: really, really made me feel watched. i never knew her, except for the few times i saw her while on my way to schooland break hour. devotion was really creepy and didnt know at all on how to talk to anything. the fact she was dying was sad and made me pity her, yes, but... she still, you know, killed my dad. i hated him, but now i dont know what happened to my mom and will never find out verifiably. wasnt the conventional yandere type actually, just really, really obsessed, but had her moments of hating those i spoke to.

karin: talkative and didnt shut up. shes like that one person who you agree with, but they present it in such an unnecessarily hostile tone that you cant reblog it. she was tolerable sometimes when she wasnt going on about her feats on her newspaper and actually contributing, but those only lasted for so long. very literate and clever, despite all. i prefer daan more.

daan: has his flaws, like always needing to have the last word, which is smooth as velcro when it comes to arguing with karin. a lifesaver for the team, quite literally, even if he was talking down on you very transparently while making you a tourniquet that made you want to just bleed out there. i think he wanted to be a bartender when he was younger, or atleast was at some point, given his sudden skills on it. at the very least, he made listening to another argument in the middle of a murder game funny.

caligura: we didnt speak much. prefers to be alone, again. from what i gathered, if we ignore the homocide, he seemed to have more underlying issues. had a listless look on his face while he wandered when not angry. very paranoid, too, always looking over his shoulder in a way he tried to play off as casual. hates being startled, too, and wont hesitate to cuss at you (as if he would hold back anyway).

august: acted as if he knew more than we did; not in a superior, egotistical way, just knew his way around well for someone out of town. levi and i both shared the impression he was suspicious too, but he never caused issues with us and helped when he could. tanaka didnt take a liking to him though for a reason he only explained to marcoh, and i think august knew this. never talked but two times.

henryk: weird but not as weird as pav is. off his rocker, not only because of the manor incident, but he also mumbled to himself while he cooked. some little words were im understandable english, some in french, and the rest just vowels jumbled together. when i tried to read his mind, instead of hearing words, there were diagrams detailing topics i didnt have context of any kind to. also yelled to "get out of my head" when i was listening in on him. if that was a coincidence, or him being aware of my confused eavesdropping, are both mysteries that keep me up at night to this day.

congrats on getting to the end,,, thank you so much for the ask! i loved writing this!!! any further questions are welcomed and encouraged.

#encasedbyflames #long post

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plugrick · 9 months ago

Text

It was indeed a long night in the best of ways, the culmination of years of yearning giving way to the fulfillment of deepest desires. Mandibles wrapping around sensitive mandibles in an erotic dance of sensuality, raised ridges on chitinous exoskeleton hooking together in just the right places, words becoming unneeded as blissful chittering and insectizoid purrs took over…

But while the two long lost lovers were busy rekindling old flames between the sheets, Rick on the other hand… Well, he was having quite the opposite experience.

Shaky hands lit cigarette after cigarette as the human anxiously paced, the red cherry on the end serving as the only pop of color in the otherwise featureless room. He should probably try to relax and recouperate for a while, but Rick found it impossible to stay still. The sad steel box that he was locked in against his will was frankly oppressive, and it served as a constant reminder of their former imprisonment. It made him feel more paranoid than he did that one time he tripped balls on way too many hits of Gorgon acid and became convinced there were giant bats trying to eat him. At least Amy was still around to passively rant to about how fucked up everything was—

Until she started complaining about how “obnoxious” his chain smoking was and excused herself on account of the thick cloud of harsh tar irritating her lungs and making her cough. Hmph. Being alone was the very last thing Rick wanted to be right now, but he wouldn’t be caught dead asking her to hang out with him or something. So…

Here he was, by himself. Waiting.

A rapidly growing pile of cigarette butts haphazardly tossed on the floor served as a testament to his state of restlessness and worry. They burned away one after the other, turning to ash between his fingertips as the time ticked by with agonizing lethargy. When was Mike coming back, anyway?

RRRRRRUMBLE

Oh, sweet glob. The vibrations rocking through the ship were noticably worsening as time went on, and definitely becoming more frequent. At times it felt as if the Outpost itself were bellowing like some great deep space whale, the shaking underfoot threatening to throw him off balance as he wore a rut into the small space he was allotted. Or maybe it was the intermittent weakness in his knees that was making his footsteps occasionally falter. There was only one thing that could be making that much noise, after all. And it was hungry.

Fuck! It felt like it had been hours now. Where the hell was Mike?! It was painstakingly lonely without the assassin around, even if he had tried to kill him bare handed. Rick shuddered just thinking about it, but quickly pushed aside the mental image of Mike’s features twisted up in full Berserk rage. He said his absence wouldn’t be long, but that obviously wasn’t the case and the ship kept rattling like a flimsy tin can. What was even happening out there?!

He was practically helpless here, at a severe power disadvantage under Federation rule, all while danger and death stalked around every corner. Damn it all! The unsureness of what was to come was a fucking mental torture—!

Rick finally got sick of wearing a path into the floor like a zoo animal suffering psychosis from being trapped in a too-small enclosure and bit clean through the end of his smoke in frustration. He curled his hand into a fist and banged on the door, ready to rip into the guards outside and demand answers.

The guards didn’t seem to think much of him, given their vague responses and eye rolls that Rick received as response. That stupid video of him suffering at his lowest had left an impression, and it wasn’t one that made him respectable in their eyes. No matter how much he barked demands for an explanation or raised his voice as he fought tooth and nail to be let out, they brushed his concerns aside like it was nothing. Eventually, they began to ignore him entirely no matter how hard he tried. They would tell him what was going on, they wouldn’t tell him where Mike went, they wouldn’t let him out - UGH!

Fine. Fine! Fuck it! He would just figure it out by himself!

In his irritated state, Rick found a swell of determination and set about to the task of attempting to repair his broken portal device with the extremely limited materials available to him. Something must’ve happened to Mike. He was sure of it, and doubly sure that he needed to fix his tech and rescue him before it was too late. It wasn’t like his ex-boyfriend, someone he knew like the back of his hand, would just up and disappear on him all night with their unfinished argument and associated feelings still on the table unless something happened… Right?!

To his frustration, the device was nearly irreparably damaged, crushed and bent and glass cracked from being roughed up by Federation goons. Even with the help of internal machinery in his hands that allowed fingertips to be switched out with screwdriver heads and various other small tools, it was nigh impossible to perform necessary repairs. He was able to get it apart, sure, but finding the entire extent of the damage and putting it back together in a way that fully worked? Without portal fluid?! That was a different thing entirely. Was it even possible?!

Damn his stupid hole-ridden brain! What good was a Rick if he couldn’t pull a rabbit out of his hat and portal away?!

Soon enough, the place was scattered with pieces and parts much in the same way it was littered with cigarette butts and empty flasks, and Rick was thoroughly enraged.

“S-stupid fucking thing! UuuuUUUUGH!”

He sat on the edge of the bed and rested his head in his hands for a while after that, despair leeching into his worried thoughts. Lizardperson was closing in, he didn’t have enough brain cells alive to put together a portal gun on the fly, and Mike was going to get hurt again. And it would be HIS fault. Fuck fuck fuck.

Maybe… maybe some Galax would help clear his mind and calm his nerves. Maybe it would help him focus, or give him just enough of an edge to figure something out.

….Or maybe it would at least numb the yawning chasm of hurt inside of him.

It was like a ritual. He drew up a vial of the dark pseudo poison - one of the precious few directly on his person - found a vein and…

In truth, it didn’t make him feel any better. But then again, it didn’t really make him feel much of anything at all. The worlds edges were smoothened out, his thoughts subdued. Comfortable, but in the same way that liquor was comfortable to an alcoholic. It made everything feel alright.

And that’s when it came to him.

Rick frowned. He honestly didn’t want it to come down to this, but it just might work. There was a chance that he might be able to use a portal fluid powered component from his cellphone to power the portal device for a precious use or two, although it would be unstable and therefore risky. A risk that he was willing to take.

He reached into a pocket and pulled out the device, of which had seen better days. The front of it had been thoroughly smashed in the process of being captured by Federation soldiers just the same as the portal gun, but it was somehow still functional.

There was just one problem.

Rick chewed his bottom lip, his brow furrowing as he swept a thumb over the spiderweb cracked screen. He had owned this thing for a long time, faithfully upgrading and maintaining security measures to protect its contents. He was an intergalactic drug dealer at the end of the day, and it was important to keep his personal business ventures under close wraps.

But it wasn’t the clientele list that could take out universal leaders or the detailings of extremely illegal deals that could send him away for several lifetimes that he was concerned about losing once he scrapped the device for parts. No, what he prized was far more important than all of that…

He opened the photo album and swept to a very special file. One that contained all the special pictures, the ones of him and Mike.

Bright smiles from better times illuminated the stress-roughened and Galax-ridden features of Rick’s face. They both looked so happy here, arms thrown over each others shoulders and laughing drunkenly with beers in hand, a bar setting with a game of darts in the background. Mike had looked good in his charcoal colored power suit that he had picked out for him. They’d had such high hopes for the success of their mission…

He swept a thumb again and again and again, sifting through oh so many stills from wild nights and assassination missions wherein they had combined the best of debaucheries - killing people and partying. It was funny how well the two activities paired, on par with fine wine and cheese or sex and chocolate. It had been their thing, their lifestyles easily going hand in hand.

Things had been simpler then.

Dramatic poses and coy kisses and candid shots; in night clubs and dizzyingly bizarre dimensional scenery and and beaches and more than a couple raunchy photos of them in bed that made Rick blush. A sweet snapshot or two that Mike didn’t know he took, when he was just doing something in a lighting that made him look particularly handsome. Or, in the case of a couple photos, that he was probably too high at the time to remember being taken. Even he didn’t remember taking a good chunk of these…

And then. There it was. A play button.

The video to end all videos, downloaded on his phone. He nearly forgot that he still had it on here.

The Xandia tape.

Rick felt a pang of guilt. He probably shouldn’t watch it. Mike had been awful touchy on the subject of the love pills - erm, orgasm enhancers when they had been brought up. And they were in the middle of a fight. A huge, ugly fight.

But there was no telling if they would make it out of this. There was no telling if Mike was even alive right now.

Why shouldn’t he reminisce on better days? It might be the last time he ever did.

Rick laid down on the bottom bunk and curled up in the thin military issued blanket with a heavy heart and pressed play. The inappropriate sounds coming from the crackly speakers just loud enough that he wouldn’t hear the door opening…

“Uhn~! Fuck, Rick~!”

“Ahn~! Ah~! Oh, M-MIKE!”

#rp

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