#the direction the wind is coming from whereas wave direction is (usually) the direction the waves are traveling

[birrdies]

the art of ship burning

2.6k, smalletho / boat boys ficlet set in my pirate au (reading the original fic is not required to understand this)

If you asked Joel, ship-burning was more an artform than a science. The matters weren’t as simple as a few dry pieces of timber and a spark to light them. To Etho, those matters probably extended into levels of moisture and the direction of the wind. However the objectively correct and all-around better matters— Joel’s matters— lay entirely with one thing: presentation.

Swords clashed on the deck. Streaks of silver cut through the midnight black sky, rivaling that of the moonlight hidden behind a thick weave of clouds. The ocean roared beneath the hull, waves thrashing the side of the ship this way and that— a storm was coming. The electricity danced in the air, teasing and coy. Gods, what a lovely night for a ship to burn.

Joel threw himself at the starboard side of the military ship, climbing up onto the rusted deadeyes to reach the shrouds. His heart hammered in his chest as the song of gnashing blades and pained yells accompanied his great climb. His sweaty palms gripped tight onto the rope, but with one violent lurch of the ship to the right, Joel lost his grip. Terror swept through him, a coldness sinking in his gut like he’d swallowed a cannonball. Perhaps it was his heart.

His legs, tangled in the rungs of the shroud, caught his fall. He dangled upside down from the ropes, all the blood rushing to his head. The frantic beat of his heart pulsed in his temples. Below him the deck’s action continued to brew. In the center of it all: Etho. He fought wildly through a crowd of butter-spined men who, by uniform alone, could be considered naval officers. They came for him at all angles, but whereas the King’s men relied on brute force, Etho relied on something far stronger: strategy.

He weaved between jabbing elbows and sweeping swords, slipping through gaps in the onslaught of soldiers. One officer lunged with his blade aimed at Etho’s chest. He side-stepped it and grabbed the officer by the sword-wielding arm, pulling the both of them backwards until the officer’s blade pierced one of his own men in the shoulder. Without missing a beat, he disappeared from the space between them. They might’ve out-numbered him about a dozen to one, but to keep Etho locked down was like trying to bottle lightning up in a jar. You simply couldn’t, and you looked ridiculously stupid if you tried.

Joel’s vision grew spotty. He’d been dangling too long, his head overfilled with blood and his legs tingling and numb. He heaved himself upright, gripping the shroud and hauling himself the rest of the way upright. Heat rushed down his spine, through his limbs, as the blood returned to its rightful place. He waited for the spots in his vision to clear before continuing his climb up the shrouds.

Usually, Joel liked to let things simmer for a bit before bringing them to a boil. It was nice to savor their targets’ panic, to watch them scurry across the decks like headless chickens as the water filled up to their ankles and they hauled away every valuable thing they had to their name. But there were more of these peacocks than either of them had anticipated; Etho was good, but he was only so good. If Joel didn’t speed things up he wasn’t sure he’d still have a partner to split his earnings with at the end of the day. Good for his wallet, but bad for the ship. Upkeep and raids were much easier when you had someone to split it up with.

So, Joel reached the top of the shrouds, swaying back and forth with the rock of the sea and wind alike. He dug around in his pockets for his flint-and-steel. It was powerful enough to take down the thickest of sails. Tongue stuck between his teeth, Joel leaned out as far as his arms could stretch, sparking the flint-and-steel inches beneath the fabric of one of two large, layered sails. It caught instantly, orange and gold flecks turning into small yet promising flames. A flash of heat kissed Joel’s face; he grinned madly.

If they thought those ridiculously oversized crimson sails stood out, stark and proud, then they weren’t ready for the show in store.

The flames consumed the sail stitch by stitch, fiber by fiber. Joel climbed down the shrouds to keep himself out of the fire’s reach but kept close enough to feel the heat of it. He should’ve quickly moved on to the other sail, to the ratline, to the sacs of flour and fruit on deck— anything to get the flames to catch quicker and get him and Etho both out of there. But don’t blame him for wanting to admire his own handiwork. They didn’t get to do this often, especially not against a military ship. This was a special treat. Etho would be fine for an extra second. Or ten.

The skin of his hands buzzed. The ropes under him shook, a rattle carried down the entire length of the shrouds up towards the nest. At the base, a broad-chested soldier climbed the dead-eyes and climbed after Joel. He was only a few feet away, a sword in his hand.

“You’ve got to be bloody kidding,” Joel groaned.

The flames quickly ate a hole in the center of the front-most sail. The further they traveled, the closer they got to the central mast. They’d start eating away at it any second now. Once the mast gave out, there would be nowhere else to go. Joel needed to get off of the shrouds, preferably before that happened and he got crushed in a mess of wood and embers.

If he got lucky, the Gods would quit toying with him and let the storm break. If lightning struck, it’d either knock this guy off and give Joel some breathing room, or it would strike the ship and fan the flames that much faster. The latter ensured almost certain death, but Joel couldn’t exactly afford to be picky. He’d rather die at the hands of some spiteful god than a military peacock who wore wigs at dinner parties for fun.

But said peacock had him cornered. There was nowhere for Joel to climb except for up, closer to the flames where the fire would burn him and the smoke would suffocate him. He had not one weapon on him aside from the fire-starter, and Joel wasn’t so stupid as to burn his literal life-line while he was still on it, suspended forty feet in the air above solid wood and thrashing blades. That was probably second on his list of least preferred ways to die.

The soldier growled and reached for Joel’s ankles. He kicked like mad, hoping he could at least crunch a bone or two under the force of his steel-heeled boots. But the soldier was tougher than he looked. He took each kick without so much as a wince, and in a second he grabbed Joel’s ankle with one hand. He balanced precariously on the shroud, one hand dragging Joel down and the other raising his sword.

“Shit!” Joel threw an arm up to shield his face from the worst bite of the blade.

But it never came. Instead, a much sweeter sound: the soldier’s cry of pain as a bolt whizzed through the air and buried in his neck. Blood sputtered from around the arrowhead; he immediately lost his grip on Joel and the shroud alike, rolling over. With him, the shroud twisted, but this time Joel was ready.

He hung on tight as it flipped over like a tangled hammock, dumping the soldier’s body unceremoniously onto the now still deck beneath. Several bodies were either dead or unconscious, stacked unceremoniously in piles where they’d fallen. The rest were either tied at the wrists and ankles or cowering with their foreheads pressed into the wood like they really thought any sort of god was helping them.

Beneath him, Etho held a crossbow still aimed at the sky. His cheek bled sluggishly.

“You sure took your sweet time up there, Joel!” he jeered, breathing heavy. “Should I grab you a pillow? Rub your feet?”

“Shut up, Etho!” Joel yelled from where he dangled overhead. “The bloody thing’s already lit, we just need to— woah, woah, watch out!”

It was close. Etho spun right as a cutlass swept through the air over his head. But not close enough. Not fast enough— a blade caught Etho in the shoulder. His pained sound was quiet, but to Joel it might as well have sounded like cannonfire. Etho staggered as the general who had snuck up on him reached for the back of Etho’s collar, hauling him back.

The cannonball he’d swallowed turned into hot, active steel. Shot directly out of a cannon, Joel slid down and leapt from the shrouds when he was confident he was low enough not to break both his ankles.

“Nope, no you don't!” His pulse pounded furiously in his ears as he snatched a sword from one of the bodies at his feet. All it took was a single lunge. A dangerous, incredibly stupid and risky lunge. But a successful one nonetheless. Even with Etho held up between them like a human shield, Joel slipped the tip of the sword in the gap under Etho’s armpit, burying the sword in the general’s gut.

He fell into a heap of limbs on the deck, blood bubbling up between his fingers where he clutched at the wound in the center of his stomach. Joel sneered and kicked him as far away from Etho as he could manage. Which wasn’t very far, he was a lot bigger than Joel, but it was about the principle of the thing.

Furious, sweaty, and buzzing with fear, Joel whirled on Etho. “You bloody idiot, what were you thinking, turning your back?! Let me see—”

Etho swatted his hand away. With the other hand he clutched at the wound. “Next time I’ll let someone poke you full of holes, then,” he said, voice strained.

It bled from the junction where his neck met his shoulder. Blood slicked his hands and dripped down the front of his white shirt, but he wasn’t bleeding as much as the guy he’d shot did. It was bleeding, but it wasn’t oh my gods I’m going to die bleeding. Which was a comfort to Joel, no matter how little. He’d be hurt and whiny, but he wasn’t going to die. He could deal with that.

Joel tilted his head back to admire his handiwork. The red sails blazed a brilliant gold and orange. Embers and ash rained from the sky, a storm of their own making. They didn’t need any gods. The ship went up like a torch, more beautiful than any damn lighthouse or painted sail on the seven seas. It was a mark to be made permanently in the way of ash. It won’t be faded by time or bleached by the sun. Joel’s grin grew wickedly sharp.

He put a hand on Etho’s back. “Let’s get the goods and get the bloody hell out of here.”

***

“Ow! Joel, careful!”

“How can I be careful if you aren’t holding blummin’ still?” Joel snapped, grabbing the back of Etho’s neck forcefully. He sat on a stool behind Etho, armed with a rag doused in drinking alcohol. He examined the wound that bit the worst into the back of his shoulder. It wasn’t as deep as Joel initially feared. The wound’s edges were puffy and oozy (everything Joel detested), but the worst of the bleeding finally stopped. Not that that spared Joel’s sleeves any; he looked forward to burning his shirt as soon as Etho was bandaged and put to bed.

He kept one hand on the back of Etho’s neck while the other dabbed at the edges of the wound. Etho shivered with each touch, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end every time so much as Joel shifted his hold. Cold air wafted through the ship's calm hull, the steady rise and fall of the sea like a lullaby. A gift for their hard work today (as if the gold and diamonds hadn’t been enough).

“It stings,” Etho complained.

Joel sighed. “You’re the one who told me to do this part.”

He shifted uncomfortably. “Sure, but it still hurts.”

He was a great partner to fare the seas with, but by the gods, Etho could be bloody annoying when he wanted to be. How could a man who was capable of cutting down an entire naval crew be capable of complaining so much? Little about him made sense, and while Joel gave up long ago trying to piece him together, it didn’t stop the puzzle from grating on his nerves often.

With a groan, Joel draped the rag over his thigh, feet tapping a restless, agitated beat on the floorboards. “Alright, it’s clean or whatever,” he said, then hesitated. “… You don’t need stitches, do you? I am not poking a bloody needle through your skin.”

“If I don’t want it to scar, probably,” Etho said, and Joel understood what he meant.

Etho was no stranger to scars. It wasn’t the first time Joel had seen him without a shirt, but it was the first time seeing things this close— close enough to touch. His back was littered with them. Thin cross-hatching lines covered the expanse of his back, some silvery and pale with their age, from a time before Joel, others still red and fresh. As fresh as scars come, at least. A gash on the right flank, a spearhead Etho caught with his body during a rowdy raid on a clan of fishermen. A long, straight cut down the length of his spine. A burn scar to his left shoulder. That one was Joel’s fault — don’t ask.

What was one more to the collection? Besides, Joel wasn’t going to complain about not having to sew Etho’s skin shut. Instead he, without complaint, reached for a roll of bandages he had set out on the table. He called it a roll of bandages, but really it was one of the finer shirts they’d stolen among one of the officer’s luggage cut up into long, thin strips. He was proud of himself for the innovation, even if Etho had pursed his lips at the side of it. Beggars couldn’t be choosers. Etho would have to just get over it.

As he wound the makeshift bandages around Etho’s shoulder and under his armpit, Joel held his breath. Etho didn’t say anything, only lightly wincing when Joel lifted his arm too quickly, which happened every time he needed to reach under the wrap the bandages around. But he endured it without much more complaint. Suddenly, Joel wished he would. Just so he didn’t have to be the one to start talking.

“That was bloody stupid what you did,” he said. “I’ll kill you if you die pulling something like that again.”

“No promises,” Etho said, and by gods Joel could hear the mischievous smirk in his voice. “Someone’s gotta watch your back, Joel.”

Joel scoffed and tucked the edge of the bandage into itself, patting them down. This time Etho groaned and recoiled from his touch, protecting his shoulder with his hands as best he could. “Now you’re just being mean.”

“I’ll stop being mean when you stop being useless and annoying,” Joel said, quickly climbing to his feet and rummaging around in the armoire (another fixture they’d stolen on a previous raid, a rare and expensive mahogany piece that both Joel and Etho found incredibly ugly but both refusing to be the first to admit it). He pulled out a shirt, wadded it up, and tossed it against Etho’s bare chest.

“Cover up before I throw up,” he said. “More ships to burn, more stuff to steal. Up and at ‘em.”

[cleargoateewonderland]

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[heylookitsyc]

Visiting Home

Pairing: Saeran Choi x Reader

Game: Mystic Messenger

Genre: Fluff

Synopsis: With your parents living outside of Korea, you don’t have the opportunity to visit them very often. You and Saeran decide to pay them a visit so they can finally meet your newborn daughter, and a sweet moment with your husband ensues.

Warning(s): None

Note: Takes place some time after the good/normal end of Saeran’s after ending (no spoilers though). It has been awhile since I played the game, so please forgive me for any mistakes ( - v - ;;) I just needed something sweet, you know? Please enjoy!

Story is down below!

~

“These lilacs look beautiful…”

“Oh, I’m so glad you think so!” Your mom clapped her hands together, obviously pleased. “I’m not that great at gardening, you see. (Y/N) was the one who influenced me, actually. She won’t stop talking about your love for flowers whenever we call.”

Saeran chuckled at the woman’s words. “Why am I not surprised?” He delicately touched one of the petals with the tip of his finger. “Your garden is wonderful, jangmonim. Even better than mine, if I’m being honest.”

“Oh, hush now.” Your mom blushed, waving a dismissive hand in the air. “Even though it has been some time, I still remember your garden, Saeran. You really do have a talent when it comes to flowers.”

“Thank you, but I-”

“As humble as always, honey.”

At the sound of your voice, Saeran turned to see you standing right in front of the patio door. You held Jangmi in your arms, the baby fast asleep as you rocked her gently.

“Ah, yeobo.” Saeran smiled at the sight of you. “You finally got her to fall asleep…”

You let out a huff. “She was able to sleep now, but she cried so much during the plane ride,” you said, shaking your head. “Why couldn’t she sleep then?”

“Perhaps the plane was too loud for her,” Saeran said. He noticed how tired you looked and gave a small shake of his head. “Why don’t I take care of her for now?”

“There’s no need,” you said. “I’ll place her down on the couch for now, since Dad said that it’s time to call you two in for dinner.”

“Dinner already?” Your mom looked surprised. “Goodness, I didn’t know that the time went by so quickly. Come along now, Saeran. My husband made a special dinner for you tonight.”

You moved aside to let your mom inside, Saeran following her closely behind. He stopped at the doorway, however, placing a hand on your shoulder to catch your attention.

“I’ll handle Jangmi,” he said, a small smile on his lips. “Go sit down with your parents. I’ll be there in a couple of minutes.”

“Ah, alright.” You carefully transferred the sleeping baby into his arms, pressing a quick kiss onto his cheek after doing so. “Thanks, honey.”

“Of course, yeobo.”

Saeran returned your kiss with one of his own before making his way to the living room.

~

“You look exhausted, dear.”

“I’m fine, Mom,” you assured, taking a bite of the tofu soup that your dad had prepared. “Saeran is more exhausted than me, honestly. Every time Jangmi wakes up in the middle of the night, he’s usually the one to go to her.”

Saeran felt his cheeks go slightly pink at your words. Your dad gave a nod of approval, whereas your mom let out a squeal and clapped her hands together.

“How sweet!” she exclaimed. “When you were a baby, (Y/N), your dad only woke up if I managed to push him off the bed. Not even your cries could wake him up.”

Your dad shook his head. “I woke up when necessary,” he said gruffly.

“I work really late, so usually I’m still awake when Jangmi wakes,” Saeran explained. “There is no point for (Y/N) to wake up if I’m already up.”

He suddenly felt a warmth on top of his hand, and he glanced down to see your hand on top of his. Your hold on him was gentle.

“Saeran really is amazing,” you said. “I’m so lucky to have him in my life. He’s more than I could’ve ever asked for.”

“Oh, my heart!”

As your mom continued to gush over your relationship (with your dad giving the occasional nod), Saeran felt himself smile.

He really was happy with you.

~

Warmth greeted your lips as you took a sip of the drink that your mom had prepared for you. You sat on the patio steps, Saeran sitting by your side. He had a mug of hot chocolate in his hands, for your mom had given it to him along with a small lecture on how he needed to take a break from caffeine.

The evening air kissed your cheeks and tousled your hair as the wind gently breezed past; the smoke from Saeran’s hot chocolate blew in your direction, the sweet scent greeting your nose with its pleasant smell.

“The guest room has been prepared,” you said, breaking the silence. It was quiet, save for the indistinct chatter coming from the television inside and the occasional buzz from an insect outside. “Do you want to go to bed?”

“Not without you,” Saeran said, and he reached out to intertwine his fingers with yours.

You allowed yourself to rest your head on his shoulder, giving a small laugh. “Alright. We’ll sleep when we finish our drinks, then.”

He didn’t answer, instead placing his head on top of yours.

Another few seconds of comfortable silence passed between the two of you. Clinking could be heard coming from the kitchen as your mom organized the last of the dishes, and soft music filled the air as your dad changed the television channel to one that played relaxing instrumentals. Your dad usually did this when he was dozing off to sleep.

“How do you feel about the visit so far?” you asked suddenly.

Saeran thought for a moment. “It’s… good,” he said. “Your parents are as nice as always. They were very excited to meet Jangmi.”

“That’s because she looks like you,” you joked, finishing up the last of your drink. “My mom is more than happy seeing that your good looks have passed on to our daughter.”

“You’re too much.” Despite the embarrassed look on Saeran’s face, however, he held a smile.

“I’m just being honest,” you said. You placed your empty mug down next to your feet. “Almost everyone says that Jangmi looks like you. I’ll admit, it does make me a bit jealous…”

“We’ll have to make sure our next child looks like you, then,” Saeran said, and you would’ve spit out your drink if you hadn’t finished drinking it a few seconds ago.

“S-Saeran…” Your cheeks were hot. “We just had Jangmi-”

“I don’t mean so soon,” he said, and though his tone was serious his own cheeks held a faint blush. “Maybe in the future. It would be nice, I think.”

You stared at your intertwined fingers, taking in the sight of his rough fingertips as he held your hand. You noticed that he had set his mug down to use both of his hands to hold onto yours, the wedding band on his ring finger glimmering faintly under the moonlight.

“When I’m with you…” he began, his voice a bit softer than usual. You saw that he was now staring up at the sky, a slight smile on his face. “I feel like I can do anything. Ever since you came into my life, I’ve never felt happier. And with Jangmi now in our lives, well…”

He turned to look at you, mint eyes staring at you with love and affection.

“You’ve given me a happiness that I never want to lose,” he said.

He lifted one hand to caress your cheek, staring into your eyes with a tender smile before leaning in to press a kiss onto your lips. Your eyes fluttered shut immediately, and he tilted his head to deepen the kiss even further.

His mouth tasted of hot chocolate, the flavor as sweet as the way he kissed you. The hand still holding yours tightened their hold, as if wanting to bring you closer.

He pulled away a few moments later.

“Saranghae, (Y/N),” he said quietly, his warm hand still resting on your cheek.

With a smile of your own, you took hold of his wrist and turned your head to press a kiss onto his palm.

“And I love you, Saeran.”

~

Translations:

Jangmonim ~ mother-in-law Yeobo ~ honey/darling Saranghae ~ I love you

[runwithwolvcs]

You Know I'm No Good - eleven

just one more

Warnings: none just fluff

It's you,

because no one else makes sense

Pauls PoV

Paul had dropped Tallulah just before midnight, waiting until she had made it safely into her home before heading off towards Sam’s, which wasn’t too far from the Forresters. He cut through the well-known woods as a shortcut before coming out into the same clearing Sam and he had found Tallulah and her friends just one week prior. Where he had found Tallulah and that Chase kid all wrapped up in one another, now mixed with the boy he had found her with tonight, sent waves of anger through Paul's body. Not necessarily from jealousy, more so to do with his imprints lack of care of who she chooses as company. Paul knows he's not much better than the boys she calls her friends, he was them when he was in high school. Before he had shifted at least.

He had known trying to figure her out wouldn’t be easy, especially with the rumors that had been spread like wildfire amongst the tribe before she had even stepped foot onto the reservation. When Rachel had pointed her out at the bonfire her first night, the night everything had changed for him, he couldn’t help but notice how different she seemed. He knew that she had grown up in the city, but even just the air around her, the way she didn’t care that everyone's eyes were focused on her, was so refreshing in comparison to most of the younger girls on the res. Surely, he should’ve known just from that thought she would be special to him, considering who he had shown up to the bonfire with was no longer a thought in his mind, but only when they had made eye contact was it solidified.

Her.

His other half.

And just like that everything had changed. He had wanted to say hello, introduce himself and if it wasn’t for the immediate connection, he would have, but he could feel her resentment. To what he was unsure of, but it was enough to send a ripple of anger through him, and with Rachel's reaction to Tallulah, it was enough to send him over the edge completely, causing him to leave the bonfire early and his imprint.

His first interaction with her had not gone to plan either. He didn’t know what he was expecting, but the fiery girl he had met that day excited him, he wanted to know more of her, and still does. Even though she had spent the week helping Paul at the bookstore, and more and more of her personality had come out besides just the exterior front she had put up with him, he wanted to know more about her. What her life was like back in Seattle, what her interests are, besides causing what seems to be an infinite amount of trouble for herself. Her favorite book, and movie. Everything.

Walking down the dirt road up to the familiar wooden cottage, Paul could see his truck sitting off to the side meaning Embry had beaten him back, hopefully he had filled them in too, he thought to himself, wanting nothing more than to just go on his patrol shift and then head to bed.

Walking through the door he was met with Sam and Emily sitting at their dining room table, he could hear that Embry was in the kitchen, no doubt looking for something to eat. They had stopped their conversation as soon as Paul had entered, Sam was now looking at him with a stern look, whereas Emilys was more concerned, “She’s fine.” he reassured Emily, and himself.

Emily had quickly spoken to Tallulah after Paul had unintentionally shifted, something that was so rare for him to do nowadays. Emily was the one who was able to pull out any information from Tal, which he was grateful for, but from the look on Sams, he was not so happy,

“You should have gone to Joseph,” Sam started, causing Paul to scoff, “That's what he’s asked of us, Paul. I let you get away with keeping her night in the clearing from him, but this, this was something he should’ve dealt with himself. Tallulah is his daughter, and if you’re always there to bail her out of the problems she creates for herself, then you’re undermining the limits he’s set with her.” Sam spoke with authority, like Paul was back in school having been sent to the principal's office.

He wanted to roll his eyes, instead he just said, “His daughter? His daughter that he knows nothing about. His daughter that he completely abandoned when she was a child. His daughter, that he doesn’t want to be truly happy because if he did he wouldn’t have come to me and asked for me to ignore the imprint. I’m not sorry that I didn’t go to him, because that was the last thing she needed tonight.” With each sentence he got angrier and angrier, causing Sam to stand up from his spot at the table.

Even the thought of the day Joseph had called a meeting with himself and Sam could cause him to shift on the spot. Being told from the day he first shifted that finding your imprint was a gift, and then being told to stay away from her once he had found her left him in a state of permanent anger. The worst part was that he actually listened and did what he was told despite seeing the repercussions it was having on her.

“Whatever you may think of him, Paul, does not mean you get to overrule what he says. None of this would have happened tonight if she had listened to her father.” Sam reasoned, and before Paul could defend his actions yet again, Emily stepped in,

“I think what Sam is trying to say is that Tallulah needs that family structure. Joseph wants to give her that, and because you imprinted on her so suddenly, he just wants to make sure she still gets it before you tell her everything. That's why he wanted you to fight back from the pull, and obviously that didn’t work out quite like anyone expected. But you protecting her from any consequence that she needs to face is only going to re-solidify for her that she doesn’t need that family structure in her life. Which could cause problems for both of you, once she finds out she’s linked to you for the rest of her life.” Emily explained gently.

Paul ran his hands over his face in exhaustion. He knew she was right, that Sam was too. But he didn’t want to hurt her, their friendship was fragile already and telling her dad about her whereabouts would only fracture it even more. “I’m going to tell her everything. Whether Joseph wants me to or not, she deserves to know. Hell, she deserves to know why he abandoned her and her mom, too.”

Tallulah’s POV:

The next morning Tallulah woke up in a state of sorrow, wanting nothing more than to just be left alone by everyone. Deciding that the only way she was going to truly find seclusion was to go for a hike by herself. It wasn’t the safest option she had come up with but it definitely was the most fool-proof.

She stood at the entrance of a path leading into the woods, pulling her jacket tighter around body as the wind picked up. The only thing she had bothered to bring with her was a small backpack carrying a water bottle. She had left her phone on the kitchen counter next to a note that had said she had gone on a hike, so that her dad and Kira knew she didn’t have it. She didn’t want to see or be contacted by anyone, and she meant it wholeheartedly. Walking into the forest following the worn, dirt path through the what seemed to be never ending trees, the smell of the earthy air mixed with the leftover rain smell from earlier in the morning was intoxicating. She loved it. It was something she craved in Seattle, which was a never ending smell of car fumes and other awful aromas. It was something she grew to love, but she never felt at peace there. She felt as if there was a piece of her missing in Seattle, and being back in La Push had seemingly filled that feeling, though she would never admit it outloud to anyone, ever.

Tallulah felt free in the woods as she continued down the overused path, following all the twists and turns, up all the little hills. The crisp air burned her lungs as she struggled to keep her breathing laboured. She was never one for exercise and it was really starting to show but she continued anyway. The wind seemingly picked up the higher she got from the ground, the leaves of the trees around her bristling with it. This was the most at peace she had felt since arriving in LaPush. No one was around to tell her what to do or how to act, just herself and her thoughts. It was nice for a change.

She arrived at a little clearing just in front of a cliff and decided to take a small break, leaning up against one of the many trees around her. She could hear the waves of the ocean from her spot, but was too nervous to get closer to the edge of the cliff.

A branch breaking nearby caused Tallulah to swivel quickly in the direction she thought it came from, the feeling of being watched by something giving her an uneasy feeling, she forced herself to continue in the direction she had been headed. She was too far into her hike to turn back now, she thought to herself. Walking up another steep area, she held onto a tree to keep her steady as she climbed the rough terrain. The bark of the old tree felt rough on her palm. As she got herself past the steep area, Tallulah surveyed what the next bit of path looked like as she continued slowly, the feeling of being watched had grown severely. The rustle of the trees and bushes around signalling that there must be an animal nearby, probably just a bunny, she thought to herself.

Taking her backpack off her back, she knelt down to unzip it, the ground keeping it up right. Grabbing the water bottle she had packed before zipping it back up. Taking a sip as she stood up, a howl ripped through the air from the area she had just been in, too close for comfort causing Tallulah to grab her bag off the ground and begin to speed walk further up the path, looking behind her to make sure the wolf wasn’t behind her. When she turned back around, Paul was walking towards her. An unreadable expression on his face. He was shirtless, in his usual cargo shorts and running shoes despite the fact that the wind felt more like knives.

“What is wrong with you? Do you know how many people are looking for you right now?” he asked, the concern was evident in his tone.

“I left a note.” she stated bluntly. It's not like she just ran away.

“And your phone!” he exclaimed.

“I wanted to be alone.” she tried to justify but Paul was having none of it.

“You can’t just come out here alone, Tal. It’s dangerous.” he stressed, “You could’ve gotten hurt and nobody would have known.” That's a fair point, she thought to herself.

“I’m not alone.” she said as she walked past him, continuing on the path, “You’re here.”

They continued forward, Paul following a few steps behind, before she stopped at another lookout. Tallulah was exhausted but too stubborn to admit, especially to Paul. There were a few picnic benches in the clearing of the lookout that she had walked over to, sitting on top with her feet on the bench, taking a sip of her water before handing it to Paul.

“How’d you find me?” she asked curiously as he took a swig of her bottle and placed it on top of the table before sitting next to her.

“Only so many trails near your house. Guess I got lucky choosing the one I did” he spoke softly. Tallulah nodded her head, looking him over. He looked so tired and she felt a bit guilty considering the events of the night before. Noticing the circular tattoo on his shoulder, two wolves howling, she couldn’t help but trace it lightly with her finger, amazed at the intricacy of. It really puts all of her little sticks and pokes to shame.

“When did you get this?�� she asked quietly, shifting her eyes from the tattoo to his face.

He cleared his throat before saying, “When I was sixteen. It’s kind of a long story.” he trailed off.

She nodded her head and smiled before saying, “It’s nice.”

“You’ve got some pretty interesting ones too,” he teased, “I particularly like the little ghost you’ve got.”

Tallulah laughed, “I thought I did a pretty good job.” she said, shoving the sleeve of her jacket up her arm to look at the little ghost on her forearm that she had done when she was 15 on Halloween.

“You apply to any colleges yet” Paul asked curiously to which Tallulah nodded her head.

“Yeah, I did back in Seattle but I’m not going to get into any of them so..” she trailed off, shoving her sleeve back down her arm, hiding her hands inside her sleeve. He was looking at her, and she couldn't tell if he was confused or concerned by her statement. “I was in the arts stream at my old school. All my applications needed an extensive portfolio that I’m never going to get to finish so they're basically already rejections.” She explained, although she didn’t know if she was upset about the fact that she didn’t have all of the qualifications for the schools she had chosen. She didn’t even know if she had wanted to go to college.

“Do you regret not going to college?” she asked him, turning her body so she was facing him.

“No,” Paul shook his head, “I didn’t really have plans to go. Couldn’t you finish your portfolio here?”

“No, I don’t have any of the equipment and it's all too expensive. Besides, I don’t want to waste my time and money just to be told no.”

He nodded his head in understanding, “You’ve still got lots of time to figure out what you want to do next.” he placed his warm hand on her knee and gave it a comforting squeeze causing her cheeks to flush more than what the cold had already caused. Whether the cold was making her mind delirious and the warmth radiating off Paul's body was too inviting, she couldn’t stop herself from leaning over and pressing her cold lips to his warm ones. It was soft and gentle but also sent shockwaves through her body.

Realizing what she had just done, Tallulah pulled away quickly, eyes wide and wild, “I shouldn’t have.. Oh my..I’m sorry, you have -” she rambled before being cut off by Paul pressing his lips back to hers. His large hand came to rest on her cheek, her eyes fluttered closed. She kissed him back with the same need that he had. It felt like one timeless and passionate moment that she would never be able to relive again and she reveled in it.

Tallulah brought her hand up to the back of his neck, tangling her fingers into his overgrown hair. It was all so sensual and smooth, nothing like any of the boys she had ever kissed before. Nothing like Xander. She felt guilty for thinking about him while her lips were connected to Pauls but it brought her back down to reality, she pulled away from him keeping her eyes cast to the ground. She separated herself from him and stood up from the picnic table, “We shouldn’t have done that.” she said quickly.

“Tal,” Paul reached for her but she shook her head, “You have a girlfriend! And I-” she stopped herself taking a deep breath, looking up at him not knowing what to say.

Paul chuckled, “I don’t have a girlfriend. But hey” he raised his hands up in defense, “It was a momentary lapse of judgement on your part but I’m not going to apologize. I wanted to kiss you, so I did.” he stated.

“Fine , you don’t have a girlfriend and I kissed you first but it’s never going to happen again.” she tried to state firmly, knowing damn well she wanted nothing more to walk up and kiss him again.

“Fine.” he agreed, standing up and in front of her. She sighed exasperatedly, standing on her tippy toes, both hands clasping his cheeks, “Just one more.”

Taglist: @cperry0516 , @bhasbhabiessss, @fuzzyfingersandcavier @haventdecidedyet

[melanielocke]

Lost in the Shadows - Chapter 22

AO3

Taglist: @nott-the-best @foxglove-airmid @alastair-esfandiyar-carstairs1 @justanormaldemon @styxdrawings @ipromiseiwillwrite @a-dream-dirty-and-bruised

@alastair-appreciation-month

Previous Chapter: Chapter 21

Next Chapter: Chapter 23

Songs mentioned or quoted are Atlas, Rise by Metallica and Red Cold River by Breaking Benjamin

‘What about the opening above us?’ Cordelia asked. ‘If the water level rises enough, we can escape. I can cut through the bars with cortana.’

‘Are you sure it’s not just another magic barrier cortana won’t help us with?’

The water reached Cordelia’s neck now, and soon she wouldn’t be able to stand in it. The rising of the water level was becoming faster and faster. There was probably a puzzle down there somewhere, but it was too dark underwater, and quite possibly too late. The only way out was up.

‘No I’m not, but unless you think of anything else, it’s the best we’ve got.’

The water rose higher and Cordelia could no longer reach the floor. She was thankful that Lucie had taken her swimming in the past days and she knew how to keep her head above the water. Alastair was struggling a bit more with the change in level.

‘Make sure to keep your head above the water,’ Cordelia said, clutching cortana with both hands.

‘Genius, Cordelia,’ Alastair bit back. ‘Whatever would I do without your advice? It would never have occurred to me to keep my head above the water.’

Cordelia took his sarcasm as a good sign. Drowning people couldn’t speak. It wasn’t like in the movies where people yelled and waved.

When the water level was high enough to reach the bars, she started hacking at them. Parts of the bars fell beside her into the water. One hit her shoulder. She yelped in pain, but she could still move it. Nothing broken. It would probably bruise, but that was all.

She continued hacking at the bars until she was sure the opening was big enough, and turned cortana back into her necklace so she would have her hands free. The water had stopped rising about a foot beneath the surface. She grabbed what remained of the bars and pulled herself up, climbing out of the hole. When she was out, she extended her hand to Alastair and helped pull him out. Strands of his hair had gotten wet, but he’d gone a pretty good job at keeping his head above the water. The rest of him was soaked to the bone. As was Cordelia, including most of her hair. She was shivering and the air was cold as ever in the land in between. She felt like she would never get warm again. Alastair was shivering too, his arms wrapped around his body.

‘Do you have any idea how to get back to the ruins?’ Cordelia asked.

They were in the middle of the woods.

‘I just need to align directions underground with directions here. Give me a moment.’

Alastair sat down, and closed his eyes, going through his memory to navigate. Cordelia had never considered the use of his ability for navigation, but without it she would never have found her way through the maze.

‘Alright, I’ve got it. We have to go that way.’

Cordelia followed her brother quietly, until he stopped, holding his hand out to stop her from moving forward.

‘Do you hear that?’

Cordelia frowned, tried to focus on her hearing. Nothing. ‘Hear what?’

‘The siren’s song. Grace is here and we don’t have her skin yet. If we come any closer, we’ll be under her spell.’

Focused, Cordelia could make out something that sounded like singing, but it could just as easily be the wind. Alastair’s hearing had always been a bit sharper than hers. Sounds were often much louder when she was in his memory, and he tended to avoid loud noises. Except for his favorite music, which for some reason tended to be very loud.

‘So we have to get the key back to the dungeon with Grace’ skin and avoid hearing the song,’ Cordelia concluded. ‘How do we do that?’

Alastair took his phone out of his pocket. Even with careful use of the flashlight it still had a decent battery, whereas Cordelia’s phone was almost dead. He then took out a pair of unusually clean earbuds, and handed them to her, while at the same thing doing something with his phone, his long fingers carefully moving over the display.

Cordelia stared at the earbuds but didn’t do anything with them.

‘I cleaned them yesterday and haven’t used them since.’

‘I know they’re clean. But I don’t think this is enough to block out Grace’ voice. They’re not exactly noise cancelling headphones.’

Alastair used to have those at home, but they’d broken. Much later Alastair had told her Father had broken them while he was drunk. Cordelia wasn’t sure if it had been on purpose, but she knew it must have hurt. Alastair had an odd attachment to his belongings and was extremely careful with everything he owned, something everyone in the family knew about. Something Father knew. Cordelia wasn’t completely sure if their father broke things on purpose or by accident when he was drunk, but it was never father’s belongings that mysteriously broke.

‘It’s not, but it would be with some music on.’

Cordelia put the buds in her ears and Alastair put on a playlist on his phone. She realized he’d been making a playlist for her, probably with the loudest songs he could think of. Noise filled her ears, and Cordelia thought if she put the volume any louder she’d get hearing damage. How Alastair could listen to this, she had no idea.

She could see Alastair’s lips move, but couldn’t make out what she was saying. She pulled out one earbud.

‘What?’

‘You couldn’t hear me.’

‘No, not over that horrible noise you call music.’

‘Excuse me, that is Atlas Rise by Metallica. It’s a very good song.’

‘It’s just loud drums and guitars,’ Cordelia protested.

‘But it works,’ Alastair said. ‘If you couldn’t hear me, you won’t hear her song. I’ll wait here, I only have one pair of earbuds and if she controls me I’ll probably be a danger to you.’

‘What if the entrance is also flooded?’ Cordelia asked. ‘I mean, I can swim, but I don’t think your phone will survive that.’

‘It won’t,’ Alastair agreed. ‘And if you’re really unlucky you might get yourself electrocuted.’

‘I think that only happens when a charging phone falls into the water,’ Cordelia said. ‘But no amount of rice will be able to resurrect your phone if I take it into the water.’

‘So if you have to go into the water, try to just put down the phone somewhere I can find it later, and be quick about it. I think down there you won’t hear Grace either, we could only hear Thomas when he was shouting into the entrance. And if you end up losing or breaking my phone… Well, it was old anyway.’

It was very unlike Alastair to be alright with her losing or breaking his things, but she guessed he understood this was an emergency.

‘Don’t die, Layla,’ he said. ‘You get that skin.’

Cordelia put the earbuds back in, and she wondered why Alastair liked this so much. She broke into a run, she could see the ruins from here. She could see Tatiana and Grace, walking toward the ruins, and toward Lucie and Thomas. She had to get there first.

She couldn’t hear anything but Alastair’s music, and she had to admit it was working. This probably blocked out Grace better than Taylor Swift did. There’s not a thing I cannot make you do, Grace had said. But her magic didn’t work if Cordelia couldn’t hear her.

Die as you suffer in vain, own all the grief and the pain

Cordelia began to get an idea why Alastair was drawn to music like this, even if she couldn’t understand why he found it so soothing. He usually couldn’t stand loud noises and he used to wear his noise cancelling headphones whenever their mother was using the vacuum cleaner because he found it too loud.

By the time Cordelia reached the ruins, Tatiana and Grace had already reached Lucie and Thomas. There was a woman with them, a woman who greatly resembled Tatiana. Cordelia hid behind a tree, it was better if Tatiana didn’t see her until she could make a run for the skin.

The unfamiliar woman looked at Tatiana, distraught, and said something to her. Cordelia couldn’t hear a thing over Alastair’s music. Tatiana sneered something at the woman. Did they know each other? Cordelia didn’t think they were on good terms. Tatiana turned to Grace and said something to her. Grace rolled her eyes before responding. Tatiana muttered something before turning her attention back to the other woman, who said something that clearly distraught Tatiana.

Cordelia couldn’t hear a thing though. I can’t feel anything at all, this love has led me to the end, was all she heard, mixed with try to find a reason to live. Alastair’s music really was angsty.

The woman appeared gentle, caring even towards Tatiana, but Tatiana accepted none of her kindness, instead yelling something at her.

‘If you did, if you were really a mother, you’d understand I’d do anything for my son.’ She yelled loud enough that Cordelia could make out her words.

Tatiana was distracted, and Cordelia took her chance. She sprinted towards the trap door.

‘Stop her!’ Tatiana yelled, and she saw Thomas and Lucie come for her from the corner of her eye.

Cordelia was faster though. She reached the trap door, and realized the hall was indeed flooded. She removed the earbuds and dropped Alastair’s phone. She would buy him a new one if it broke, she decided. Hopefully she could find the money somewhere. Hopefully it wasn’t broken. She dived into the water, and underneath Grace’s voice was too distorted, too far away. She felt a hand around her ankle, grabbing her. The hand was big and firm, Thomas? Cordelia struggled against the grip, kicking back with her free foot. She hit someone’s chest, several times until the person had no choice but to let go.

Cordelia swum into the deep. She could barely see anything and realized there was no air in here. If she didn’t get to the skin before she was out of breath she was doomed. She would drown in here.

Her lungs began to burn for air, but Cordelia gripped the key tightly, and pushed it into where the door had been. The magic barrier lifted and the key broke just like all the other keys she’d found. It made no sense, but that didn’t matter. She could enter. Cordelia swum through, and grabbed the skin. Now to get back up. She turned around, and desperately swam up. She could see the light, and that’s where she needed to go. She gasped for air as soon as she was up, and now she could finally hear Grace’ singing. It was the most beautiful sound she’d ever heard, certainly more beautiful than Alastair’s music.

Cordelia would do anything for her, but there was nothing Grace asked for right now. Cordelia climbed out of the trap hole, holding the skin in front of her. She would do anything for the siren, and she knew there was nothing Grace wanted more then the skin Cordelia was holding.

‘Grace! I have brought you what you asked for.’

Grace turned to look at her, and noticed the skin. She stopped singing.

‘What are you doing?’ Tatiana yelled.

Grace ran to Cordelia, and took hold of her skin, draping it around her shoulders like a cloak. Here she would be unable to turn into a seal, or at the very least it would be unpractical, but she was in control again.

‘You cannot control me anymore, Tatiana,’ Grace said.

Tatiana looked scared. She hesitated for a moment, but before Grace could do anything to stop her, Tatiana disappeared into a cloud of darkness. When had she learnt such magic? It must have been part of the deal she’d made with the thief of souls.

Lucie and Thomas broke free of the spell, and a few moments later Alastair appeared from behind the trees, still soaked to the bone and teeth clattering.

‘I came as soon as I heard she stopped singing. Is no one hurt?’

‘What happened to you?’ Thomas asked. ‘I saw the place flood, was there another exit?’

‘The key was a trap,’ Alastair said. ‘The room locked us in and then flooded, but there was a barred opening at the top. Cordelia cut through it with cortana so we could get out.’

‘How were you immune to my song?’ Grace asked Cordelia. ‘I kept trying to get you to stop. Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad you didn’t listen. But I don’t understand how you did it.’

Cordelia grinned. ‘I couldn’t hear you. My brother’s music taste is loud and heavy and I was listening to some music on his phone.’

Alastair looked around and picked up his phone and earbuds from next to the trap door. Cordelia desperately hoped she hadn’t broken anything.

Grace nodded. ‘I presume that is the modern version of putting wax in one’s ears.’

‘You will be returning to the sea, I guess?’ Cordelia asked.

‘As soon as I can. I’m glad to see the witch unlocked some of her potential. And I suspected that strange memory ability would be useful in navigating the puzzles to my skin. The rules of this land say there must be a solution to the puzzle, so Tatiana just made it as complicated as she could in the time she had. Be glad she’s been so busy, or it would have been twice as big.’

‘I think that was plenty,’ Alastair said.

‘But you solved it.’

‘Now that you’re free, can you tell us what Tatiana is up to?’

‘I cannot tell you everything, because I do not know all she is up to. I know her main goal is to resurrect Jesse, I know it cost her much to bring back his ghost and it will cost more to bring him to life. She has been an assassin of sorts for the thief of souls, collecting souls he deems interesting. My help made that a lot easier, she forced me to use my powers to make people kill themselves. I know eventually Thomas will die if she is not stopped, to replace Jesse, but only once he lives.’

‘Is there any way to help both Thomas and Jesse?’ Lucie asked.

‘Not unless you destroy the thief of souls himself,’ Grace said.

‘What is he, exactly?’ Lucie asked.

‘From what I’ve heard, he was once a mortal man who sought eternal life. He found a gateway to another realm where he could live forever and gather power through collecting souls. It’s not where the dead are supposed to go, but he takes them. Once he could draw people in at will, it depends on how strong the seal is. Now he only gets them when he makes deals with humans in exchanges for souls he finds interesting. I think it makes a difference if the soul is offered by someone closely connected to them, because he likes to ask for family members, loved ones. I think that when you offer a soul not related by blood, you have to kill them, but when you offer a soul related by blood, the thief can use the connection to find them himself. I’m not sure if that makes sense, but that’s why he needed Tatiana to be an assassin whereas he killed Jesse himself.

He can give magic away. Magic similar to what Lucie can do, that’s why Tatiana can see Jesse, and why she allowed me to see Jesse, so I could help her watch him. But his magic can also create sickness, cause people to disappear, the kind of thing Tatiana’s father did to his rivals. He doesn’t usually reach into our world without a blood connection, that’s why he can’t just kill at random.’

‘He created my sickness, didn’t he?’ Thomas asked.

‘I think it is not uncommon for those promised to him to develop a sickness,’ Grace said. ‘What happened to you and Jesse is a bit less common, I think, because he waited so long to collect. I think it’s because he suspected Tatiana could become useful to him, and he wanted to see just how far she’d go for him when he was sick. As for you, I think there was much he could learn about your family as well by keeping you sick. It was a good way to weigh which boy would to choose. Which soul would be more valuable, but also whose parents might deal with him. It became obvious Tatiana would go very far for her child with no care for who else got hurt, and so he chose Jesse. Because he knew she would do everything to bring him back.’

‘Just like you thought,’ Thomas said to Alastair.

‘Souls are the price of his game,’ Alastair said and Cordelia could tell he was thinking of something, but couldn’t tell what.

‘But they don’t know about me?’ Lucie asked.

‘Not yet,’ Grace said. ‘But it’s only a matter of time until they find out.’

‘Do you know why the thief of souls collects souls?’ Alastair asked. ‘Do they have a use for him?’

‘I think the more souls he collects, the more powerful he becomes,’ Grace said. ‘I’m not sure why it matters who. Of course, there will always be souls more interesting than others. I think the four or you would be more interesting than a hundred boring average people. And the connection to the people who offer the souls matter too. I think he draws power from bonds of family, or love.’

‘But how much love can there be if you’re willing to sacrifice someone for power,’ Alastair wondered.

Cordelia had to agree, if someone was willing to sacrifice a relative or a spouse for power, they couldn’t love them very much, could they? But perhaps it wasn’t so much about love as it was about the connection. Besides, love lay close to hate, much closer than people thought. Cordelia had learnt that indifference was the real opposite of love.

‘I wouldn’t know,’ Grace said. ‘The thief of souls only takes humans. My kind doesn’t have souls. Instead, when we die we turn into sea foam.’

That sounded rather horrifying. Wasn’t that what happened in the original little mermaid?

‘Do all mermaids, or selkies, know about this?’ Cordelia asked. ‘Or did you find out from Tatiana?’

‘We know stories, rumors,’ Grace said. ‘But with Tatiana I realized it was real. Even if she never told me anything, I learnt plenty by being around her.’

‘How long were you with her, exactly?’ Thomas asked.

‘Three years,’ Grace said. ‘She often pretended I was her daughter, and made me do the work the thief of souls asked of her. I haven’t been to the sea in all this time.’

‘And your skin was here for three years?’ Cordelia asked.

‘No, she only did that when she came here,’ Grace said. ‘Before, she kept it with her, but here she suspected you might steal it if you found out what it was. She didn’t realize I could still escape when she hadn’t given me specific instructions.’

‘If the thief of souls can do all these things, why does he not take over our world, kill at random?’ Alastair asked.

‘As I said, he needs a blood connection to operate in our world, and the promises form humans he works with. According to Tatiana, he has been sealed away by a witch a long time ago. But here’s where it gets interesting. Apparently, somewhere in the Victorian era he’d grown so powerful he could leave his realm, kill people without a deal. He had a daughter too at that time. A witch called Theresa Gray. She was the one who sealed him away. I think, considering how old he is, it must have been done before, but I don’t know how or when. The seal will break again, although I have no idea how long that will take.’

Lucie frowned. ‘Theresa Gray, that’s my mother’s name. Well, she usually goes by Tessa.’

Grace stared at Lucie. ‘I heard the thief speak of her. He never expected her betrayal, and couldn’t defeat her or stop her from sealing him. But he could take her memory. Weakened from the battle, she fell asleep in the land in between and only woke up a 130 years later with false memories of her childhood in time she woke up in. He took her power away while she slept, since she was in the land in between he could still do that. He does not believe she is a threat to him anymore, and thinks that with enough interesting or powerful souls, he’ll break free for good.’

‘Meaning this woman would live in the modern age, with no idea who she was?’ Alastair asked. ‘Lucie, it could really be your mother. The timeline adds up. And if she was the thief’s daughter, that would explain your why your power is so connected to his.’

‘Everyone in my mother’s family died,’ Lucie mused, ‘All when my mother was very young. My only family are on the Herondale side. It could be her. And although she doesn’t have the sight, it was very easy for my father to get her to see and believe, something that has always surprised him. But then she would have been the same witch Jessamine knew. Wouldn’t Jessamine have recognized her?’

‘I don’t know, it has been a very long time and Jessamine didn’t know her that well,’ Cordelia said. ‘Could easily be that Jessamine forgot her face.’

‘I could talk to your mother,’ Alastair said. ‘See if I can restore her memory. If she lived a different life than she remembers, the real memories are still there somewhere.’

‘Have you done anything like that before?’ Lucie asked.

‘Not as extreme as an entire life someone forgot,’ Alastair said. ‘But I have restored missing memories, yes. Most of the time, there isn’t much of a point to it though. Not everyone wants to remember.’

Cordelia knew what Alastair was talking about. It was something he’d told her about not long ago, after learning about their father’s alcoholism. He’d tried to restore their father’s memories from when he was too drunk to remember, hoping that if he knew how much he was hurting Alastair, he would stop. Nothing had changed though.

‘What is Tatiana planning next?’ Alastair asked Grace. ‘How much time do we have left?’

‘She didn’t tell me,’ Grace said. ‘She comes here to communicate with him, I think that was her intention today. But she wants you out of the way too. Ultimately, Thomas must die so Jesse can live, but I think she will try to kill all of you when she can, especially when she find out what Lucie can do. The thief lost track of witches, and they’re very uncommon nowadays.’

‘Are all witches his children?’ Lucie asked.

‘I’m not sure,’ Grace said. ‘In his current state, he would be unable to leave his realm and have a child, but he used to be able to. I don’t think he’d try again if he could though, not after his daughter turned on him. But they could be descendants, generations away. I’m not sure how the magic inherits.’

Some of the stones shifted, the ruins became a little more like a castle.

‘I think we need to get out of here,’ Cordelia said.

She was still soaking wet, as was Alastair, and getting colder. She longed for a hot shower and some clean clothes. Lucie opened a separate gateway for Grace, and they walked into the light that brought them back to the forest.

Lucie stared into the distance for a moment. ‘She’s become transparent again. Show yourself, Barbara.’

The woman Cordelia had seen before appeared. Who was she? Another ghost, but somehow Lucie had pulled her back into this world.

‘You’ve taken a soul away from him,’ Grace said. ‘You really are powerful. But he’s going to be very mad.’

‘What else was I supposed to do? I’m not sending her back,’ Lucie said crossly.

‘Fine with me, but you should know what you’re doing,’ Grace said. ‘You’re making a powerful enemy.’

‘He was always my enemy,’ Lucie said determinedly.

Cordelia feared what would happen though. Would the thief of souls realize how powerful Lucie was? Would he come for her, out of fear that Lucie would finish what Tessa had started?

Grace nodded. ‘Alright then. I will be going my own way. I need to return to the sea. Perhaps you can come visit me some day on the Isle of Skye.’

Grace then walked into the woods, and disappeared. Did she intend to walk all the way to the coast? Cordelia wanted to call after her, but she was long gone.

[kaitoujokerscans]

The Night the Silver Cape is Set Ablaze CH3

<3> Noir Strikes!

The violent tremor made Hachi and Hosshi shriek.

"Eeek!"

"Hosshi!"

"W-Whawazzat!? Is Spade back!?" Joker looked up. The middle of the Sky Joker was a giant gas-filled sac called an envelope, and it was sandwiched top and bottom by the airframe. Joker and the rest were in the lower part, whereas the tremor had come from the upper part. The two people and one pet ran through the hallway up into the upper gondola. The collection room for less recent treasures was up there. All their spoils of victory were organized compactly in it.

"Joker-san, over there!" Hachi pointed to a gaping hole in the ceiling. The obvious assumption was that someone had blasted it open.

"..." Joker put himself on guard. He slowly surveyed the room, and just then, he caught a glimpse of a fluttering cape.

"Who's there!"

He could see the silhouette illuminated by the light of the moon. A long cape draped behind his lanky body, and a large silk hat covered his head. He looked familiar — seeing him, Joker shouted out abruptly. "Master!"

Yes, he looked exactly like Joker's master, Silver Heart. But then the moon's light shone over the man's face.

"Wha...!" Joker's expression froze up. That wasn't Silver Heart...!

The man's round spectacles glinted. Behind them, callous eyes quietly regarded Joker. As the moon's light gradually shifted, the man could be discerned better. He wore the same hat and double-breasted suit as Silver Heart, but their colors were the exact opposite. Gold buttons shimmered on his jet-black suit, and his black hat was emblazoned with a golden letter "N".

"Greetings, Phantom Thief Joker..." came a low, monotone voice. The wind should have been roaring from outside, yet the man's words reached the pair's ears calmly and clearly.

"My name is Noir. I'm certain my advance notice found its way to you..." It was evident from the man's voice that he was much older. The voice that streamed out of his seasoned throat flowed forth with gravitas.

His voice had a strange ring to it. It left no impression, as if you would forget about it if he weren't standing right there.

"..." Joker noticed that his usual lackadaisical attitude had gone. What is this feeling...? Joker's instincts were telling him that the man in front of him was dangerous. Regardless, he plucked himself up and spoke like normal.

"I've been waiting, Phantom Thief Noir. Looks like you're after my treasure." The corners of Joker's mouth were raised, but his smile was stiff.

"That is correct. My intel tells me that those terming themselves 'phantom thieves' must send out advance notice..." said Noir deliberately.

Joker responded loudly, as if he were trying to shake off his nerves. "Obviously that's what phantom thieves do! That's what my master taught me!"

"Your master... is that so, heh heh heh..." Noir chuckled. His strange laughter was unsettling to Joker. "And your master's name is...?" asked Noir. He sounded as if he were asking a question to which he already knew the answer.

"My master... is the Silver Magician, Silver Heart!"

"Heh heh heh... As I thought..." Noir leered, his eyes glimmering eerily. "Then as announced, I will take your treasure...!" Noir lifted a hand high and snapped his fingers. Then immediately, BOOM! BOOM! — a series of explosions roared, blasting off the Sky Joker's entire roof.

"Wha-!?"

"What just happened!?"

"Hosshi!?"

Above them was the expanse of night sky. A fierce wind buffeted Joker. Then Noir stuck up one index finger and said to Joker:

"One minute."

"Huh?"

"Shield the treasure from me for one minute. If you can protect it for a full minute, I will accept defeat and leave here."

"You what..." Joker glared at Noir.

"Joker-san!"

"Don't worry, Hachi. A minute'll be over in no time." Joker may have been acting flippant, but he expected this to be a tough match. As someone who lived in a world where every second mattered — and even shorter intervals too — Joker knew best how long a minute could drag out for. And there was one other thing...

Joker heard a voice inside his head. Shield the treasure from me for one minute. Joker had heard this phrase before. It was probably back when...

"The count's already begun!"

Noir's shout cut off Joker's train of thought. He threw up his cards to block Noir's attack. Noir, tall in stature, had swung a knife. Masterfully wielding the short blade, he beat down upon Joker.

Joker blocked the knife blade frantically. The strikes were hardly swift. Nonetheless, he would quite plainly be injured if he didn't guard against them. Noir's blade was honed in on Joker that precisely.

"Rrgh! Rrghhh...!"

"What's the matter, Joker? Your pocket's unguarded! I can pilfer the crystal from it at any time!"

"!?" Joker took a giant leap back, flipping in midair before landing. He had found out that the gem was in his breast pocket. Joker softly patted over the pocket. He could feel the crystal. It hadn't been taken yet...

He's toying with me...!

Joker's competitive spirit was ignited. He fanned his cards out and yelled. "Straight Flash!"

The cards shone with blinding light, and Noir raised a hand to his eyes. While he was still immobile, Joker jumped back towards Noir.

You can't win just by defending! No matter how far back you're pushed, going on the offensive will open a path to victory!

Remembering what Silver Heart had told him long ago, Joker charged towards Noir. If he could just make him drop his knife by using his cards, he wouldn't be able to attack any more.

"Hiiyah!"

It was just as his cards had caught the knife. Joker saw a suspicious glint in his field of view. Oh shoot...!

Joker scrambled to twist his body while off the ground. As he did, he felt a sharp knife whizz right past his nose. Had he noticed the glint any later, the blade would most likely have cut into his face.

But how... He shouldn't be able to see right now!

It was then that a heavy impact rocked through Joker's body.

Noir's knee had caught Joker in the stomach. Massive pain pervaded his body, and Joker could no longer breathe. Then he felt his lapel being grabbed at. As soon as he processed this, Joker's body was tossed into the air. Noir had sent Joker flying with a model shoulder throw. Joker's scrawny body hit the floor like a rag doll.

"GWHAAAAAH!" Joker let out an incoherent howl. His whole body was in agony.

"Joker-san!"

"Ghh... I'm... okay, Hachi..." The falling position he had taken just before hitting the floor had done its job. He didn't have any bone damage, at least. Joker got up wobblily and scowled at Noir. When he did, he saw that the spectacles Noir had over his eyes had been replaced with sunglasses.

"When did you...!?"

The sunglasses had blocked the light and rendered Straight Flash ineffective. Noir then touched the end piece of his sunglasses and turned a tiny knob. The tinted sunglasses instantaneously changed back into the same transparent spectacles they had been before.

"W-What are those!?" Hachi exclaimed in surprise.

"...Polarized lenses, eh."

"That's correct, Joker-kun."

Polarized lenses have a special coating that prevent light from coming in from anywhere but one specific direction. If two polarized lenses were aligned in the same direction, they would appear at first glance to be normal lenses, but by changing their orientation, light wouldn't pass through and the lenses would turn dark like sunglasses. They are much like the light shade plates used when looking at the sun.

"You predicted my attack...?"

"Hardly a remarkable feat. I only imagined how my opponent would attack two or three steps ahead. Then I changed danger into an opportunity. According to my intel, this is the basics of being a phantom thief. I'm sure you're aware of this...?"

"Ghh..." Joker bit his lip in frustration. Master said this too. How does he know Master's teachings...? His attacks were being read like a book. This was the first time he had faced such a formidable opponent.

But...

Joker's spirit hadn't been broken yet. He could still feel the crystal against his chest. The pocket that Joker had the crystal in was bifold. Just sticking your hand in wasn't enough to pry out anything. You had to put your hand in all the way and under another layer of cloth to get at whatever what was inside. Noir probably hadn't been able to get his hand all the way in there.

"But it looks like I still won. I protected the treasure for a full minute...!"

"..." Noir stared at Joker silently.

"What's wrong? Aren't you the one who said the match would only last a minute, gramps?"

Then Noir laughed derisively — at himself. "Hmph, it seems I'm slower than I once was... It took more time than anticipated to snatch the crystal from that second inner pocket of yours," Noir said, and waved his hand. Almost like magic, a bright red crystal ball shone in Noir's fingers.

"T-That's...!" Bewildered, Joker put a hand to his lapel. There was a hard sensation.

How...!? In a panic, he probed inside the pocket and removed the crystal — but the thing he pulled out was no gem. It was a rock about the same size as the crystal. The rock was hefty and sank in Joker's palm.

"When did you...!?"

"Just after I mentioned your pocket to you. I deliberately set you on edge, only for you to be relieved moments later. That relief was the key. You could say you dropped your guard. When you let down your guard, used the shining cards, and approached me, that was when I took it. Slowly, with these deteriorating hands..."

"......" Wordlessly, Joker sank to his knees. I didn't notice at all...

Noir had gotten his hand into Joker's pocket, removed the crystal, and to top it all off, he had even planted a dummy. Joker had utterly lost...

"Now then, I will leave with the treasure. You're fairly clever. Your aptitude is wasted as a phantom thief." Noir's words pierced right through Joker. "According to my intel, you were least skilled at 'protecting treasure for one minute' drills."

"What...?"

The one who had told him to "shield the treasure from me for one minute" during his training had been none other than Joker's master, Silver Heart. What Noir had proposed was exactly the same as his master's training.

"...Do you know Master?"

"Yes, far better than you do. He was quite a talented man. Yet a talented master will not necessarily have talented disciples..."

"'Scuse me!?"

"Farewell, Phantom Thief Joker!" Noir twirled his black cape. It was such a dark, obscure black that it was as if the stars around him had vanished. The cape wrapped around him with a fwoosh, and an instant later, Noir was gone.

In the darkness of the blustery night, Joker, Hachi, and Hosshi stood idle, staring stupefied at the empty void.

[hidden-otaku-stuff]

Lockscreens (ch. 3)

tw: Implied drinking

Word count: 2.9k

Genre: Angst, fluff

All trigger warnings will be tagged and posted at the beginning of each chapter! This will have *manga spoilers*

Pairings: Bokuto x fem!reader, Kuroo x fem!reader

Summary: Nearly four years ago, Bokuto left the love of his life for volleyball. Despite all the time, he’s still very much in love with her. He comes home to a major surprise leaving him wondering…What happened while he was gone?

AN: Please check the bottom for info about my 150 follower special!

Masterlist | prev | next

ch 3: No new notifications (13 weeks)

“Cheers! To the best, most hard-working Manager I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing, who is doing a kickass job in her life. This is all for you, bestie!” Kuroo pointed at her, brandishing his red solo cup. The room broke into cheers as she began to glow cherry-red. She glanced down to the phone in her hand. No new notifications. 

“Congratulations (Name)!” Yaku grinned, tapping his cup against hers. She tucked her phone back into her pocket as she took a sip of the sparkling apple cider.

Kai stood beside her, elbowing her slightly. “We always knew you could do it.” 

“He’s so embarrassing,” she huffed, cheeks puffing up. Kuroo walked over, pushing her cheeks together. His own glowed like fresh-picked strawberries.

“You look so adorable kitten~!” She playfully nipped at his fingers, causing him to pull them back and wag his finger at her. “Is that really any way to treat your bestest friend who planned this party for you?” They stood side-by-side as they surveyed the scene. Kuroo had gone all out. He’d ordered food and had even helped prepare curry prior to the party while she had made the gyoza. Her house was filled with familiar faces. Her heart glowed, recognising all the members from the Nekoma team from her third-year. Even senpais who had graduated two years before had stopped by. Here and there were familiar faces from other teams like Sugawara from Karasuno, Konoha from Fukurodani, and even some of her classmates from university. 

By the entrance, a large white poster was tacked to the wall serving as a backdrop. On it was “Congratulations (Name)!” with markers were provided for party-guests to leave heart-felt messages. The pop of another champagne bottle being opened caught their attention. White and gold streamers decorated the walls. Balloons were center-pieces at all the various tables. Her heart clenched, an all-too familiar jersey and face popping into her mind. 

“Congratulations Kou!” She squealed, jumping into her boyfriend’s arms. Bokuto beamed, wrapping an arm around her waist. 

“Congratulations to you too, babe!” He leaned down, rubbing his nose against hers. She giggled, pulling back and straightening out his tie. 

“I can’t believe we’re finally finished,” (Name) smiled, turning her body so that her back was against Bokuto’s chest while they surveyed the room. All around were various former third-years of Fukurodani and Nekoma. Nekoma’s graduation ceremony had been yesterday whereas Fukurodani’s ceremony had been that day. 

“Finally finished, but still stuck together,” Kuroo appeared, looming over their shoulders with a smirk on his face.

“It’ll be a new adventure,” she protested, glaring at the male. 

“Oi, Kuroo, leave the love-birds alone,” Yaku scolded, holding two red solo cups. Yaku handed her a cup. “Cheers guys!” They all cheered, their cups tapping together. 

“To another four years with my babies,” she smiled affectionately, letting her head rest against Bokuto’s chest. 

“I guess I’ll sacrifice another four years taking care of you children,” Kuroo teased. She rolled her eyes, feeling Bokuto’s warm breath on her ear.

“To four years of university, and then a lifetime beside the girl who stole my heart all those years ago,” he whispered. (Name) flushed pink, only for a scarlet glow to overtake her when Bokuto pressed a sloppy kiss onto her cheek. “Let’s party!” He cheered, pulling away and chugging the rest of his beer.

She glanced down to her phone. No new notifications. All that stared back at her was the picture of some cute dog she pulled off of the internet. Nimble fingers plucked the phone from her grasps. “Hey!” She protested, hands reaching up to try and grab it. 

“This is your party!” He gestured to the room. “All of these people gathered here to celebrate this accomplishment with you.” He sent her a soft look, cupping her cheeks before pressing a chaste kiss to her forehead. “You can have your phone back later, okay?” 

“Yeah, yeah,” she pouted, pushing his hands off of her face. 

Kuroo pushed her towards Kai and Yaku before he walked away, joining Kenma in the corner. “You and Kuroo seem closer than ever,” Yaku commented, shooting the girl a sly look. “Did something happen?” The former libero eyed the rooster-headed male as he laughed. 

“Oh, let me help you with that Kenma!” (Name) called, putting down the water bottles as she made her way over to the first year setter. Kenma’s face turned as he avoided direct eye-contact, focusing on the ball he was wiping down. She stood beside him, grabbing a towel to wipe another. Her perky voice carried through the emptying gym. Hazel eyes followed them, a smile proudly displayed on his face. Yaku and Kai exchanged looks, a smirk creeping on Yaku’s face. The second years entered the locker-room, following the rooster-headed male.

“God I’m so happy right now.”

“Oh really, what’s going on now Kuroo?” Kai inquired, sending the male a sly look.

“Does it have anything to do with (Name)?” Yaku teased.

“No!” Kuroo pouted. “Maybe.” He took off his shirt, grabbing a different one from his bag. “I’m just happy that she and Kenma get along, okay?” 

“Don’t they usually hangout anyways?” Kai raised his eyebrows.

“Is that all that makes you happy about her?” 

“Well I mean...isn’t that good? Isn’t it a good thing my best friends get along together?” Kuroo smirked. “I don’t see you having any best friends, Yaku, so I guess you can’t relate there.” Yaku’s face crossed into anger, as he rolled his shirt sleeve up. 

“Hey, don’t start fighting here,” Kai warned, tugging his own shirt down. 

“He started it!” Yaku scowled.

“Well, I’m ending it.” 

There was a knock at the door. “Kuroo? Are you still in there?” 

Kuroo was holding his hand against Yaku’s forehead, preventing his movements. “Yeah!”

“Hurry up, rooster-head. I gotta get home and get started on my paper!” 

“Coming!” Kuroo pushed Yaku back, throwing his bag over his shoulder as he ran out, tripping slightly. The boys exchanged looks.

“He’s so whipped.” 

Kai grunted in agreement. 

“Something like that.” They all turned to look at the pair of best friends.

“What happened to Bokuto?” Kai asked, his eyebrows raised. 

(Name) turned to look at them, her eyes dimming. “He uh...he left, I guess.” She cleared her throat. “He went to go pro and left me behind.” She shrugged. Another sip.

“That owl-haired idiot,” Yaku scowled. “You guys seemed so in love though.” 

“Didn’t you choose your major because of him?”

“We were and yeah, kinda.” Kuroo’s eyes met hers from across the room, and he sent her a cheeky smile. “But sometimes, you gotta let go of the people you love so that they can fly to their highest.” The group drank, Kai and Yaku exchanged looks at her sorrowful expression. “Besides! I love being a recreational therapist anyways.” 

“Are you planning on getting a doctorate? I know you mentioned wanting to do physical therapy sometime.”

She shrugged. “I don’t think it’s in the cards for me right now, but maybe sometime down the line.” A hand subconsciously settled onto her stomach. In turn, she asked them about their post-graduation plans and they soon fell into an easy conversation. 

After a few hours, the party began to wind down. People left, the food and alcohol had long been consumed. “Thank you for having us!” Yaku waved as he and Kai left. (Name) had been bent over the kitchen counter, picking up the empty cups and dirty plates that littered it. She waved at the duo before the door snapped shut behind them.

“Thank god that’s over with,” she said as she went back to cleaning. Another glance at the phone on the table. No new notifications. She bit back her sigh. At this point, she shouldn’t have even been surprised. 

Kuroo’s annoying laugh echoed in the house as he began cleaning the table. He eyed the decorations. “How about we leave the decorations up for a bit? There’s no harm in celebrating a little longer.” 

She rolled her eyes. “You’re just too tired to clean up.”

He walked around the island, wiping down the cleared counter. “That and you need rest,” he chided. A light hand pressed against her lower back. “Go shower and get ready for bed. I’ll take care of this.” A chaste forehead kiss. Her eyes fluttered shut at the searing contact. 

She let out a long sigh, a hand on her stomach, a slight bump meeting it. “Only because my feet and back are killing me,” she acknowledged. She leaned up, pressing her lips to his cheek. “Thanks rooster-head.” Ignoring his cry of indignation, she headed to the bathroom. By the time she was finished, Kuroo was sprawled onto her bed. “I don’t remember giving you permission to sleepover,” she remarked, leaning against the doorway as she towel-dried her hair.

“And I don’t remember getting a thank you for today. I guess we’re both missing something now aren’t we?” His snarky reply had her balling up and throwing the damp towel on his face. Kuroo whipped it off, complaining loudly. She walked over, crawling towards Kuroo to hover over him.

“Thank you for the party.” His eyes gleamed as he tapped his cheek. 

“I think you missed something here.” 

“Kuroo!” She warned, and he threw his head back in a good-natured laugh. 

“Down, kitten,” he teased. “No need to get your claws out.” He gently eased her off of him onto the bed. “I’m gonna shower and I’ll be right back for cuddles.” She scowled, throwing a pillow at him.

“Don’t even think about it Kuroo!” He cackled as the pillow bounced off the door. She stretched slightly before she relaxed onto her side. Exhaustion overwhelmed her, and she slipped into the abyss. 

****

Nearly 300 miles away, a muscular male was just clambering into bed. His phone vibrated, lighting up. 

Konoha: Missed you at (Name)’s grad party! Hope you’re having fun with the pros 🙄😜

Gold eyes widened as he opened his calendar. He cursed. (Name) had finished university last week, and he hadn’t even sent her anything! Setting a silent reminder to send her a gift in the morning, he quickly drafted a text.

Bokuto: Congratulations baby! I’m so proud of you 💖 Can’t wait to see you soon!

He tossed his phone onto the nightstand and laid on his back. His muscles were extra sore that day, practice had run three hours over due to an interview that had predated it. He closed his eyes as his breathing deepened. The wing-spiker didn’t notice the error message that popped up on his phone as he fell asleep. Nor did he notice that his phone wasn’t plugged in.

****

(A week later. Name is 14 weeks along)

Stepping into the comfort of her home, (Name) let out a sigh of relief. It had been nerve-wracking, going to the clinic alone. She threw her purse onto her couch, plopping down next to it. Glancing down at her phone, she realized she had probably an hour before Kuroo would be coming over. At the thought of her friend, her heart skipped a beat. A hand settled on her stomach again as she slipped in her thoughts. Feeling the bump, seeing the doctor….it was all so real. She really was having a baby. She was having Bokuto’s baby. Her fingers played with her phone. Should she…? A thumb hovered over his contact. (Name) gnawed on her bottom lip. She tapped on their messages.

Last message sent:

[Name]: Hi baby! I hope you’re having fun at your training camps 💞 Don’t forget to eat and drink water. I love you. Read: 1 month ago.

(Name) shook her head. There was no point in texting him if he wasn’t going to respond to her. She sighed, startled out of her thoughts as her stomach gurgled. “Ooh, I’m sorry baby. Gimme a sec.” She stood up, making her way to her kitchen. Opening the door to her fridge, she was greeted to the sight of prepared bentos. “Oh, Kuroo,” she sighed affectionately, taking the top box out. A sticky note was tacked onto it. ‘Figured you might be too busy to make food. Enjoy! -Kuroo’. Popping the lid open, she was greeted to rice, a fried egg, sliced chicken breast, and spinach. Placing it in the microwave, she pulled out her phone to send a text. 

[Name]: Thank you for the bentos! It looks delicious

Rooster-head: Anything for you, dear 😼 See you soon!

The microwave beeped, calling her attention. She sat at her table, whispering a quick, “thank you for the meal,” before she started scrolling through social media. As she placed the empty container into the sink, there was a knock at the door. Briskly patting her hands dry on the towel, she opened the door.

“Howdy-do!” 

She rolled her eyes. “Hello to you too Kuroo. Do you have any other weird greetings for me?” He shrugged off his coat, throwing it over the back of the couch.

“I’m sorry, is ‘Honey, I’m home!’ more appropriate for you, princess?” 

“You’re insufferable.” He cackled, pulling her into a hug. 

“Eh, but you love me.”

“Do I really though?” She dead-panned, gently pushing him off. “Thanks for coming over, I really appreciate all the help you’ve been giving me.” He let her go, taking a step back.

Kuroo cracked his knuckles. “Don’t sweat it, I offered. Now, is everything already in the room?” 

“Yeah, I just need to get some last bits of furniture, and then it’ll be all set.” 

“Let’s get to painting then!” She stepped into the secondary bedroom, revealing a cloth-covered floor. “What color did you pick out?” 

(Name) popped open the lid for the bucket. “I liked this blue-grey colour. Figured I wanted something gender neutral.” 

“Makes sense.” He surveyed the walls. “Are you going to do a mural or something on the wall too?” Kuroo bent down, pouring a bit of paint into the tray. 

“Maybe? Might have to ask someone who’s more artistically inclined.” A hum in response.  

“How was the appointment, by the way?” 

She put her hair in a bun, pulling on a pair of stained overalls. “Good! The doctor just told me to have more DHA, protein, and to make sure to get sufficient rest.”

“I told you that you needed more docosahexaenoic acid.”

“Like I said, insufferable.” They stared at each other before bursting into laughter. 

Kuroo clapped his hands, rolling his shoulders back. “Well, the paint isn’t gonna get on the walls itself.” They rolled up their sleeves. “Let’s get to it.” The next hour was filled with laughter, their favorite songs blaring from the Bluetooth speakers that (Name) brought in. Just as they were about to jump into the chorus of (favorite song), the music died out and was replaced by a ringing noise. She raised a brow, laying the paint brush against the lid as she went to her phone. Her heart skipped a beat. Was it Bokuto? (Name) answered, taking the call off of Bluetooth.

“Hello, is this (L. Name, Name)?” 

Her brow furrowed. “Yes, this is she.”

“Excellent! My name is Kirishima Kayda, I’m with the Tokyo Office of Sports Medicine. I’m calling about the resume you submitted recently. Will you be free for an interview next week?” 

Her eyes widened, and she started smacking Kuroo’s arms as she bounced with excitement. “Oh my gosh, hi Ms. Kirishima, yes! I have open availability next week. When would you like me to come in?”

“How about Tuesday at 10 A.M.? I will send you an email with the interview confirmation and all other information you’ll need.”

“That sounds wonderful, thank you so much for your time.”

“You’re welcome. I’ll see you next week!” 

“What was that about?” Kuroo asked as she pulled the phone away from her ear.

“I just got an interview with the Tokyo Office of Sports Medicine!” She squealed, glowing with excitement. 

“Ooh, I’m so excited for you! Congratulations, kitten.” Kuroo pulled her into a hug, causing her to whine as splatters of paint transferred onto her clothes. “Now, help me finish getting this room ready.” 

“Yeah, yeah,” she pouted, tucking her phone back into her overalls. After tucking some strands of hair back into the bun, she grabbed one of the brushes, flicking paint at the tall male. 

“Oi!” 

She giggled, ducking under his arms as he attempted to send a glob of paint at her. They began running around the room. More paint ended up on them rather than the actual walls as they played like children.

****

“Not that I care, but why the hell have you been checking your phone so much?” Bokuto jumped, his phone flying out of his hand and skidding across the ground. Sakusa stood in front of him, his arms in his pockets. 

“No reason!” Bokuto replied nervously, running over to pick his phone up. He winced at the cracked screen. “Aw man,” he whined. Bokuto had already been having issues with his phone for the past week or so. 

“Serves you right,” Sakusa rolled his eyes. “C’mon, we’re supposed to be practicing.” Bokuto let out a soft sigh as he walked back to his bag. Sakusa turned, heading towards the court while Bokuto dropped his phone into his bag. No new notifications. Every opportunity he had, he was racing back to his phone. No new notifications.

AN: Thank you to everyone who has been reading my work so far! I really enjoy putting Lockscreens out for you. I have officially reached 150 followers!! Please read this post for more info about my request celebration that I am having! 

Taglist: @toaster-stick @thatartsybitch @brazil-hinata @sawamooora @lastminaddition @anejuuuuoy @abby-rutledge20 @babybluebisexual @badboysdoitbetter2 @liathachcapricious @cosmiclunas @wishingforanother@toobsessedsstuff  @setterfish   (If your name is bolded, I had trouble tagging you!) 

Please message me or send me an ask if you’d like to be added to the taglist! 💞

[teeztheflag]

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P e a r l s   &   T e a r s

⋆ pairing: siren!ateez x pirate!reader (poly!ateez)

⋆ genre: siren au, pirate au, yandere au, suggestive

⋆ warnings: yandere content, obsessiveness/possessiveness, alcohol, strong language, storm, blood, ship accident, death, mentions of impregnation, captivity, mentions of harassment, mind manipulation, betrayal

⋆ words: 5,600

a/n: they’re not really brothers; sirens can walk on land in this story

„Manipulation is a beautiful thing, especially when the one who is manipulated doesn’t realize it anymore.“

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„Seisinoe is again missing... where’s our brother?“

„I’ve seen him going down to the mermaids lagoon. He just can’t get enough.“ Molpe giggles and pours himself another glass of wine.

„I will get him.“

„Great. Than we can finally discuss the urging process of our dying blood line!“ Haglaophonos grumbles out annoyed and sits down on one of the thrones at the head of the circle

He watches the others playing around and practicing their sword combat while waiting for Simperopa to return with their brother. Lately he thinks he’s the only one who takes the topic to heart and especially Seisinoe is disappointing him these last days with his ignorance. Usually he’s the most decent one out of them and the one urging the others to think straight...

Warthenope observes how the night probably brings out some of the most enormous anger of poseidon this year. Fortunately the thick walls of their huge estate is keeping away the wind which is howling against the closed windows while the young siren studied the power of the waves that are crashing against the coast.

Poor bastards that are trying to sail through this storm right now...Yeukosia joins him at the balcony and hands him another glass of wine which he accepts.

„Whoever‘s outside tonight is surely going to die.“

„Why’s he so angry?“

Yeukosia frowns a little bit and eyes the surface of the sea with high interest.

„Don’t assume he’s angry everytime a storm rages. I can’t remember to anger him with anything lately, well, I can only talk for myself of course.“

Warthenope turns around and takes a huge sip from the liquid.

„If I think about it, you’re right. This one seems to be different.“

One thing was sure, the storm was enormous. Whereas every decent person is locked inside their homes at land right now you are desperately clinging on the mainmast of the ship you called your home since the last five years.

With your last strength your try to save anyone of your crew who were lucky to not be thrown into the wilding sea by now. You don’t know where your captain is and practically see nothing while crying and screaming for the others that are poorfully dying right in front of your eyes.

The ship is thrown from side to side and you can hear the wood crackling everytime another wave comes crashing down on the surface or against it. Of course it wasn’t the first storm you encounter but this one seemed to be sent by Poseidon himself. Suddenly a lightning meets the top of the main mast and you see your look-out falling down painfully slamming into the ground in front of you.

You curse under your breath and cough because of the huge amount of water that entered your system by now. You shriek back when you feel the mainmast shake from side to side and like in a time loop it crashes down into the water.

You’re trying to save yourself on all fours to the other side of the ship when it starts to break into two halves. The last thing you see is another mast coming down and after that only black dots forming in front of your eyes...

It’s funny that you always believed it only happens in fairy tales that some poor soul could survive a huge storm and regain their consciousness back at the beach of an isolated island. But here you are, slowly opening your eyes and feeling the urge to cough out the water that still lingers in your lungs.

Where the heck am I?

Of course it took some time to gain back your senses and to slowly get into a sitting position. Your clothes are ruined and your skin is dirty but you not seem to be hurt anywhere except the big wound on your head from the mast. You groan out when you pat your head and see the blood on your fingers.

Rather fast you search for a hiding spot when you hear some voices behind the rocks but your legs are still too tired to move your body even only the slightest. Much to your dismay the voices become louder and you see a small convoy of guards nearing your form. After spotting you they of course increase their speed and stop you from crawling away from them.

„What do we have here? A stranded?“

The others of the group only laugh at how the man roughly jerks you up by your arm and he furrows his brows at your worn out state.

„You have to be extremely lucky to survive a storm like that...“

„Sir, Poseidon himself unleashed the sea yesterday. Seeing a girl like her surviving it and stranding here is a miracle. We should take here to the masters...“

„That’s a great idea... You, girl, maybe you can bring luck to our lords and make them happy again. If you’re not able to, well, then I will have some fun with you!“ You flinch back and try to free yourself from the young man but without success...

After what seems like an eternity up the coast and through a town where everyone’s pretty busy they arrive with you in front of big gates. They open and the guards practically drag you to the entry of an enormous mansion and inside of it. Never before have you seen such luxury like in this moment. The place could have belonged to Zeus himself if it wasn’t for the fact that you were on earth and not high in the skies.

Before you realize it a man with beautiful shiny black hair and dark eyes stands in front of you eyeing you down with a curious look.

„Who’s this?“

„Oh my, master Seisinoe! This is a stranded we found at the beach today!“

The man tilts his head a little bit and rounds your form with careful steps while his arms are behind his back. He screams authority and this isn’t only about the guards who are still in a bowing position since he came into the scene. No, it’s something about his gaze and how he moves that intimidates but fascinates you in the same time.

You flinch a little bit when he leans down behind you and starts to whisper into your ear after he dismissed the guards.

„You don’t know where you are am I right? You’re clearly from another part of this boring world... Pirates normally don’t come along these waters so care to explain what you and the others were looking for here?“

It’s intriguing how he could tell so much with only the little information of your appearance. He isn’t wrong, you are indeed looking for something.

„Answer me little bird...“ You can feel his fingers sliding through your hair and a shiver runs down your spine.

„Brother! Leave her, we‘re going to the main hall I already told the others.“ Seisinoe rolls with his eyes and takes your wrist to guide you into the right direction.

„What a mood killer.“

Guess you can call yourself pretty lucky that you are still alive to this point although being stranded on a foreign island. Luckily you are not stupid enough to act too rushed and decide to wait and analyze you chances to escape.

Seisinoe stops in the middle of a big hall and sends you a gaze which means stay here or you will regret it. After that he takes his place on one of the eight thrones in front of you. Your eyes drift over everyone of them while you’re trying to think who they could be.

After everyone is seated a man in the middle coughs a little bit to get the attention of everyone. It seems like he tries to think about what to say and your brows furrow when you notice one of the men glaring at you with a mischievous smirk. Either he’s a sadist and happy about torturing you soon or - and that’s absolutely ridiculous - he’s flirting with you.

Looking down yourself you observe the last dirty clothes that protect your naked skin from the mens’ eyes and you gulp slowly but relax a little bit when they avert their gaze as if they notic your discomfort.

„What’s your name girl?“

„Y/N.“

„And where are you from?“

„You wouldn’t recognize it anyway...“

„Is that so? Well, I have to apologize in the name of our guards for being so rough with you also you have to be tired and hungry regarding the fact you cannot even stand properly... We will continue this talk when you are taken care of.“

With a clap of his hands some maids appear and guide you away from them to an equally rich decorated room. After a few minutes they return with a lot of food and a physician looks over your wound. Everyone of them is nothing but nice and respectful towards you and it seems genuine so you thank them afterwards.

With a full stomach and after a long and needed bath you fall into the bed and drift into the dreamland.

Haglaophonos and Yeukosia continued to ask you the next morning and explained where you and who they are. Never in your life would you have thought that you would meet some royal sirens. Sirens alone were very rare and a mystery themselves but getting to know them and their own island where they were technically the kings impressed you.

Although they knew that you were a pirate they told you to be a peaceful folk and would help you to find your crew or what still remained of them. Under the condition that you won’t tell anybody about their location and they wouldn’t secretly inform the other states about you.

As the people of the island and the sirens themselves didn’t really needed boats or ships because they had everything they needed it had to take some time to provide you with a ship and a crew that would take you back to some pirate site.

The people of the island were warm-hearted and laid-back and always had a helping hand. The weather usually was sunny and the breeze of the sea refreshed your state and mind. The whole place felt like you were on vacation. Also you learnt to know that some of the sirens really loved to spoil you with everything they could think about. You room was soon decorated with the most beautiful flowers, jewelry and clothes.

Sometimes you felt overwhelmed with all the recognition and attention they gave you so you always sticked with the most inconspicuous pieces out of their presents to not come off rude by using nothing they gifted you.

The big halls of their estate sometimes intimidated you and as they forbid you from helping with the ship building you busied yourself with exploring the island and helping some of the people. You enjoyed teaching the children something of your home language or helping the elderly with their daily tasks.

Soon the conversations about the mysterious pretty lady in the mansion of their rulers increased and it didn’t left unnoticed by the sirens. Of course, sometimes the thought crossed your mind... Why haven’t they just killed you? Why feed you, give you a bed and swamp you with the most expensive things? What was so special about you to let you live and build a whole ship for you?

As time flew by you got closer to some of the boys. Especially Yhelxiope and Warthenope became some of the best companions on the sometimes boring island days. They were funny and like the brothers that you always wanted in your childhood.

Haglaophonos and Yeukosia were usually busy with the administration of their state. Whereas Yeukosia was well-read and a little bit mysterious Haglaophonos often wore a serious face. Strangely he had a quite cute site, too, and you couldn’t deny the fact that it brought butterflies to your stomach whenever he smiled at you.

Usually Jigeia and Molpe were hard to find and to hang out with. At the dinners they often rushed to take a seat next to you and talked with you a lot but it really left you curious what they were after to in a day.

The last ones included Simperopa and Seisinoe. Simperopa usually hang out at the training field and you enjoyed watching him practicing his combat skills. Sometimes you just pretended to train out a little bit yourself but secretly you liked to see him. He was a hot young man and he looked good while concentrating so you didn’t feel bad about it because you obviously weren’t the only one who enjoyed his training.

Seisinoe on the other hand was the only one who acted hostile towards you, or, maybe more creepy? You didn’t know what it was but you were still fascinated by the authority he radiated off and often only his presence could make you weak in your knees. Seisinoe of course knew what effect he had and you quickly learnt that he spend a lot of his time with girls and mermaids. They were some interesting  creatures with their beautiful eyes and tails. Not once were you able to see the boys in their natural state with a tail and the one time you asked Haglaophonos he just giggled a little bit and called you a curious little doll.

It took about maybe three to four weeks when you carefully asked Yeukosia if he knew when the ship would be ready. Back then his orbs widened and his eyes turned into a dangerous yellow color. His features hardened and he gave you a lecture about how you should be thankful and not pressurize their hard working people to do more than they are able to. Tears formed and you quickly apologied to him feeling very ashamed. Yeukosia slowly went back to his usual composed stature and took you into his embrace. He caressed your hair and told you it was ok and he wouldn’t tell the others so they wouldn’t be hurt because of your thoughtless  words. You didn’t even understand why it would be inappropriate to ask but something about his outburst affected your own judgment of the situation.

After a while you decided to stop asking about the ship and your plan to get back to your life always fearing to anger the nice sirens in any way and just waited patiently for the day to come.

„Y/N? Could you please come to the garden in half an hour?“

„Ehm, yes of course!“ 

Jigeia nears your form in front of the mirror and lays his chin on your shoulder. 

„You are so beautiful...“

„I am not. Stop talking nonsense!“ You blush a little bit at his statement and avert your eyes when he embraces you from behind and puts a light kiss on your naked shoulder. By now you are totally used to the close skinship they liked to share with you but of course for it doesn’t mean anything more.

„Be on time.“ Something dark flashes in his eyes and by now you know that the yellow color usually means they’re liking what they see or they are angry.

When you enter the garden wearing a light and flowy pinkish dress you already hear Warthenope‘s loud laugh and a smile adorns your face when you come into view in front of them. „You are all here? Something‘s special today?“

They smile at you cheekily and Haglaophonos opens his palm for you to come to him and take his hand. „Y/N, today is indeed a special day. Everything’s ready for you.“

This can only mean one thing... Your waiting is paying off and you can finally leave the island and maybe find someone of your crew! „You, you mean the ship is ready? Oh my god!“

As Simperopa‘s smile only vanishs out of his face Seisinoe‘s grows. Some of the others are literally disgusted of the thought you would leave them but of course they’re trying to hide it in front of you.

„My little Y/N, no no. You already know it takes some time to build a ship that can take you over the ocean.“ Haglaophonos shakes his head and coos at you jumping a little bit out of excitement. You stop right away and disappointment sneaks into your features.

„What could it be then?“

„We have something different for you. Molpe was the last one to find an appropriate one so we are now finished with our gifts.“

„Gifts? But I already told you I don’t want anything anymore...“

„Believe me, it’s something really special.“ Before you can answer him the sirens stand up in a circle around you leaving you turning around to make eye contact with every single one of them wondering what they are planning to do. Suddenly Yeukosia nears you and pulls out what seems like a chain behind his back.

Your curious eyes follow his movements when he holds the chain directly in front of your eyes and you clearly dismiss how he watches you in a slightly lunatic manner. The chain is made out of pure gold and crested with the best small diamonds and refinements. What catches the most of your attention are the eight pearls that are set-in the piece. Everyone is beautiful and unique in color and shape.

„Are you accepting it?“ Yeukosia already moves to put it around your neck and closes it when Yhelxiope speaks up before anyone forgets to.

„Y/N, it’s not nice to ignore your masters.“ Jigeia adds in with a serious tone. They always address themselves as masters when they aren’t happy with your behavior.

„Yes, yes of course! I am accepting it. It’s so beautiful...“

The boys relax after the ritual is done and get closer to you to watch you wonder about every detail of the chain. „Everyone of us searched for their own pearl, the pearl they’re giving to their beloved ones.“

You stop in your tracks when the words leave Simperopa‘s mouth. „Is this a siren thing? Then why, why would you give them to me?“

„You still don’t see what we feel for you, Y/N?“ They look at you expectantly and wait for your answer.

„What exactly do you mean feel for me?“

Seisinoe rolls with his eyes annoyed and sighs. „It means we‘ve decided for you to be ours. You should be happy and thankful right now not asking dumb things.“

„What Seisinoe means is that we are in love with you. When a siren finds someone they want to spend their life with they gift them their most precious pearl. It’s like a promise we make to love them unconditionally and always stay by their site and protect them.“ Warthenope adds.

Molpe comes into your view and takes your hand into his ones. „It just happened that all of us fell in love with the same girl. Believe me, we are urged to find at least one appropriate woman for one of us to save our bloodline but everyone of us wants to marry out of love and not just have children with a person we don’t even know or love. Before you came to our island we were just about to pick one random girl because our residents want to see a heir to the throne. We knew Poseidon sent you to us with a good reason.“

You need a few seconds to register and understand his words but if you think back to the first day you awakened at the beach and what the guard told you it all made sense now. They thought because you stranded here after Poseidon’s storm you were someone special and now they want to impregnate you - and that sounds absolutely insane.

With a shaky breath and mixed feelings you take your hand back out of Molpes reach and collect your thoughts.

„To be honest, I feel really honored that you think of me to be a suitable party for your blood line. I understand your situation although it’s confusing that you think you’re all in love with me because we don’t even know each other that well. I am feeling very flattered right now but I can just say that I don’t feel the same for you guys. I like you and I think you’re attractive but in my situation I cannot think of a relationship let alone stay on this island.“

You take off the chain and hold it out for anyone of them to take it back why you put some space between you and the sirens.

„I hope you understand my position and that you finde someone else who can returns your affection.“

Luckily your gaze is focused on the ground so you don’t see the humiliation and anger some of them are feeling. Just before Seisinoe is able to get to you Yeukosia takes his wrist and speaks up.

„Y/N, we are not lying about being in love with you. It’s not rare for sirens to fall in love with the same person and share a poly relationship. Also you say you’re liking us, too. Why don’t you think about it a little bit first, hm?“

„Yeukosia, I don’t need to think about it and I am not shaming your way of living. I just can’t stay here with you. I have places to be.“

„Fine. It’s her decision guys I mean we cannot force her to stay with us. The ship will be ready soon so you can go your way. For now I think we should calm down a little bit.“

Haglaophonos motions for the others to leave seeing the situation soon escalating if he doesn’t break up the dangerous atmosphere. He takes the chain out of Y/N‘s tremulous hands and smiles at her mischievously.

„I didn’t want to anger you or the others, Haglaophonos.“

„My little doll, don’t worry. We just wouldn’t have thought you would turn us down...“

He closes the distance between the two of you and holds your gaze with his beautiful eyes. He literally eyes you down and studied every feature of your face while you feel you could collapse any second he’s making you so nervous.

„It’s a pity you don’t like us enough or don’t even want to give us a chance.“

By now you can feel his breath on your face and your lips are opening a little bit without your consent just like they’re waiting to be touched by Haglaophonos‘s smirking ones. You know what he’s doing and your reaction shows too much that you’re indeed attracted to them. But you just cannot give in so close your eyes and turn your face away from him your hands turning into fists and the nails gripping hard into your palms.

„Don’t be late for dinner.“ He just giggles and leaves you there.

After the tense dinner you’re now sitting in your room reading a book to distract yourself from the events earlier this day when a knock interrupts your peace.

„Yes?“ One of the maids you came to have a good relationship with enters your room and closes the door behind her.

„Miss, I have something really important to tell you.“

„I already told you to call me by my name Sophia.“ You smile at her and pat the place next to you.

„I know, Y/N... I am sorry.“

„You seem to be upset about anything - you can tell me everything you know that right?“

„Yes, I know. I am just so confused and scared.“

„Scared? Why? What happened? Did someone hurt you? Is Seisinoe harassing you again?“

„No, no! To be honest it’s about you, Y/N. Listen to me, you have to get out of here as soon as you can! You should take a boat and get off this island!“

„But why? And even if I wanted to there are no boats that could take me over the ocean - “

„There‘s a little boat at the west coast behind the big warehouse for the grain. The boat is small, yes, but it is able to take you to a little nearby island where my brother‘s working. He’s in contact with many merchants and sometimes even pirates cross his way. It’s your chance to get away from this place. Here’s the map.“

„But, if there are big ships coming to this nearby island why didn’t they brought me there?!“

„Y/N, they don’t want you to leave this island. They are not building a ship for you. They are lying since you’ve arrived here.“

„But, why would they do that? I don’t understand... They promised me they would help - “

„I’ve heard them earlier talking about everything, I am sorry Y/N. The masters are usually very nice so I don’t understand it either! I mean, I don’t think they want to hurt you or anything but they just talked about how you couldn’t leave the island under any circumstances and that they would do anything to keep you here. Then master Yhelxiope said he hopes you aren’t looking for the ship that doesn’t even exist and he laughed...“

It hurts. The ones you though of so big literally made fun of you behind your back all the time. There wasn’t a ship and they didn’t want to help you. All the time they were selfish bastards that just tried to keep you here and manipulate you. You would like to confront them right now and slap everyone of them in the face but their guards wouldn’t even leave you the chance to do either.

„The, the map. Is it really working?“ You take it out of Sophia‘s hands and study it while some tears leave your red eyes. Your hands shake a little bit because of the anger and you try to concentrate while the maid rubs your back.

„It is. You have to leave tonight my brother will know I sent you when you just say who you are. If they find out about you knowing anything they will definitely put you into prison or worse.“

„Alright. But what if they find out you told me?“

„Don’t worry, they won’t.“

Of course you would’ve had a good chance to escape if it wasn’t for the sudden high waves this night that threw you over the boat and into the dark and angry water.

It felt like tons of water entered your lungs and knowing it wasn’t any use to fight the natural power you just tried to get back to the surface with the last strength you got. It was like Poseidon again decided for your destiny and pushed you deeper and deeper into the depths of the blackness. The last thing you saw were large and beautiful tails that glittered in the light of the moon before your eyes finally closed.

You would be dead by now if it wasn’t for Simperopa who accidentally saw the maid leaving your chambers that evening. They could’ve stopped you sooner but as they knew there would be a storm after a long time tonight again they just waited knowing you wouldn’t get any far.

One week passed with you being in what seems like some sort of coma before you open your eyes again. You look around the familiar room and tense immediately when you see Seisinoe sitting across from your bed.

He smirks when he recognizes you have awakened and stands up to sit down on the bed. He pats your head and plays a little bit with your hair while humming softly to a melody.

„W - “

„Careful, your voice is still horse after the amount of water you swallowed.“

„S - s - so - phhh - “

„What do you think happens with traitors?“ A smile adorns his face and you feel sick to your stomach at his words. You’re tearing up the thought of the small and fragile girl. It wasn’t her fault she just wanted to help you...

„You should rest a little bit more. I am going to tell the others.“ Before he sits up he stops in his tracks and leans down again. „Y/N, if you ever try to escape again I will kill everyone on this goddamn island.“ You cry out at his cruel words and watch him leaving not being able to move any muscle.

After being forced to eat some soup by another maid everyone gathers in your room around your bed. You watch their faces, some of them are happy and relieved you’re good again, the others looking still angry like they wanted to break something and Seisinoe who’s just smiling at you knowingly.

What makes the blood in your vessels freeze is seeing Haglaophonos smirking and nearing your laying form with the chain in his hands. „My dear brothers, our Y/N is finally awake and in our arms again.��

The others watch how their leader puts on the chain around your neck again and how you try to turn away from him when he plants a long kiss on your lips.

„You are sick.“

„No, we love you - and you should begin to accept the fact that your staying here.“

„What’s with helping me? You promised!“

„But you were the one who tried to escape. You were trying to get away and tell the others about our location. You broke the agreement.“

„I - I didn’t! I just wanted to leave!“

„Why? We would’ve given you a ship and everything but you betrayed us and we cannot let you go now. You have to stay here and be with us. You just managed to imprison yourself this island.“ Yeukosia says in a monotone voice.

„I won’t say anything! You know that! Warthenope, Yhelxiope - please, you know I wouldn’t!“

The both sirens share gazes and Warthenope answers for the two. „Sorry, Y/N - but they’re right... it makes sense how Seisinoe explained it. Also I really love you and you accepted our pearls.“

Slowly you become insane with the situation and try to get out of the bed but Jigeia stops you before you an move any further and fall out of it. „Slow down. You will hurt yourself.“

„The only one who is hurting me are you guys!“

„Stop being irrational now.“

You begin to cry endlessly realizing you would have to stay here for the rest of your live not having the chance to fulfill the real promise you made.

„Little one, stop crying. Tell me, what were your plans as a sought-after pirate and girl with no home or money?“ Haglaophonos asks while he caresses your hair and cheeks.

„I - I just wanted to be free. I am not a pirate. I am a girl from a good house that just was robbed by pirates! I wanted to live freely and without having to fear for the law to catch me... I wanted to prove my innocence...“

„Mh, but you’re free if you stay with us. On this island you’re the lady everyone respects and loves. The law won’t get you here and no one dares to lay a finger on you if you’re next to our side.“

„What a beautiful dress and - oh my! those pearls! Are they heavy?

„Sometimes yes.“

You smile at the noble woman in front of you hoping she wouldn’t think about it too much. Your eyes search the scenario for one of the sirens and you sigh relieved when they’re not in sight right now.

You take your place on the wedding table and gulp down a large glass of wine. Everyone seems to be so happy and relieved they finally got a woman for their emperors and you can only think of your own misery. Maybe Yeukosia is right and you should change the perspective to the citizens and their well being...

Watching children dance with their fathers and the elderly enjoying themselves brings a smile to your face, too. Also the weather‘s again perfect this evening. You decide to get another glass of wine and go to the pavillon and watch the ocean.

„Very peaceful isn’t it?“

„Seems so.“

„You never fail to make me smile my love.“ Seisinoe takes you by your waist and pushes you against his body.

„I should’ve known you planned all of this in the beginning.“

„But you didn’t. At least no one died, right?“

„Don’t remember me of that bitch...“

„Those words out of my beautiful bride‘s mouth... sksksk.“ He places a chaste kiss on your lips and you roll your eyes at him after he winks at you.

„Manipulation is a beautiful thing, especially when the one who is manipulated doesn’t realize it anymore.“

„They aren’t dumb, master.“

„I didn’t say it but let’s just say that some of them needed a little push.“

„If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be here, right?“ Seisinoe snuggles his face into your neck and takes in your scent. After that he embraces you from behind and watches the ocean with you in his arms and giggles.

„Maybe, but I didn’t manipulate them into loving you.“

Behind the two of you voices can be heard and Seisinoe takes your hand to get back to the place where the event is held. There the rest of the eight sirens are standing and watching you with twinkling eyes as you enter with their brother.

„And now we can finally present our wife, the one we gifted our pearls and that we promised to love and protect forever.“

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↺ back to navi

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[victorsandvanquishers]

Mughal-e-Azam for Antimagic Demon and Asta for the Bollywood film edition....

Asta x Liebe Nation, I come bearing the good fruit. Thank you for requesting, Anon, please enjoy. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

~~

It was the irony of all ironies – Asta's friends knew he was in love before he did.

Gordon noticed first, because Gordon was the most observant of the group. Asta was unlike anyone he'd ever met, so the young man didn't possess the sweaty palms, furrowed eyebrows, and fleeting glances that would plague the usual sort. Asta was different. More than that, Asta's deepest thoughts were just underneath the surface, hidden beneath veils of booming laughter and rippling muscles, a subtle hint in a sea of smiles. That alone gave Gordon grounds to investigate.

The stiff spine was the most surprising, and at first, Gordon had assumed poor Asta was just constipated. He'd debated getting his friend some herbal medicine so that he could rest easy. Gordon didn't want him to end up like Captain Yami, perpetually in the restroom, perpetually whining about the woes of tummy trouble.

He changed his mind when he realized Asta only stiffened when their new friend was out of his grimoire. It was their new friend with the glistening black skin and powdery white face. Liebe also had the most magnificent horns, horns which he'd begrudgingly let everyone in the base touch and pat because Nero's were too small and because she didn't quite like the touchy-feely stuff.

Liebe, however, seemed to enjoy it much more than he let on, and so they indulged him accordingly.

Charmy threw him a feast on the night of his official arrival to the base because it was the first happy evening they'd seen in weeks. Their captain had been rescued, Henry had built Nacht a room of his own, and Asta had a new friend.

It was a grand affair. Charmy made her best dishes, Vanessa opened her most treasured wines, and Zora's party tricks brought life back into everyone's eyes, even if Captain Yami ended up sitting on a stinkbug.

Liebe sat quietly for most of the party, but that was to be expected. Gordon was a great listener, so he'd noted every detail of the stories Asta had proudly told him about his demon friend. Asta had regaled him of the stories of his and Liebe's binding ritual on their journey back from Spade. Asta had called it friendship-binding. Gordon liked friendship. He thought it the most important and exhilarating thing to exist in their world.

He didn't forget the twinkle in Asta's eyes when he'd gushed about shaking hands with his new friend, the demon in the grimoire. Gordon didn't think he'd ever seen Asta so happy before.

That same fondness seemed to translate into Liebe's eyes, even if he was mostly silent. He looked to be the brooding type, a little like Gauche, but not an isolationist like Nacht, and though somewhat acerbic like Noelle, not nearly acerbic enough to offend anyone. Their new friend seemed to be in that happy middle amongst the three, quiet but present, as if reflective of every moment passing before his eyes.

If anything, it seemed to Gordon that Liebe just preferred to sit quietly. That was fine with him, as Gordon could see the warmth and affection in his eyes became stronger with their revelry. Liebe could remain in that brooding middle, the one where he blushed furiously when they patted his horns, but still grumbled beneath his breath about clingy humans. Gordon could accept that.

Liebe laughed for the first time when Magna slipped on Luck's chocolate wrapper, went tumbling into Noelle, who screeched and blasted Magna with a wave of water that eventually planted Magna against the wall, soaking wet and dazed. Gordon almost missed the new sound, what with the raucous laughter and Magna slightly concussed, but Liebe's laugh was different. It was a loud, scratchy thing, perhaps even a little shrill, but so full of life and love that Gordon balked in his seat, his hat lying limp in his hands.

Nobody else seemed to notice, but Gordon did.

And so did Asta.

Asta had stiffened when Liebe began to laugh.

Asta only stiffened when Liebe's attention was turned towards something else, eyes focused elsewhere, his back to Asta, black wings and black skin glittering like diamonds in the night while Asta stood motionless, in awe.

Asta had stiffened when Liebe began to laugh.

And that's how Gordon realized that his young friend was in love.

*

Vanessa noticed because she'd spent ten years giving Yami the same look, and got nothing in return.

It took her a little bit longer than Gordon, but she caught on. A month after they'd brought Yami home, Vanessa was in charge of leading some squad members on a clean-up mission on the border of Heart. It was a simple job, and one that would see them all home by nightfall. Vanessa wrote down the plan because she was still learning how to lead on her feet, and until she could call out orders at the drop of her magnificent hat, she would continue to use the little notebook Finral had gotten her when she'd become the team's interim captain.

She was reading over her notes when she realized that Asta was staring. Not at her, of course, but at the demon flying about, helping to direct the other squad members to where the lumber, stone, and tools would need to go as they worked to rebuild the little town that had lost to a mana storm. Vanessa had glanced up by chance, Rouge purring on her shoulder, and yet her eyes landed on Asta, as if it were fate.

She wondered why someone so kind and selfless had to suffer this particular kind of pain. She'd been suppressing her own for a decade now, camouflaging it with her alcoholism, and sometimes her trips to the brothel where the men were all the same, and she could pretend for the night that she was loved and wanted by the one she desired the most.

She wondered why Asta had to suffer the same pain. She tilted her head up and gazed at the astonishing black creature fluttering its great wings against the pale blue sky. Liebe was unlike any monster she'd ever seen before, and Vanessa had seen quite a few in her lifetime.

She wanted to ask, wanted to know – why him? Why not Noelle? Why not Yuno?

She didn't have to ask though. A moment later, Liebe swooped down with a powerful gust of wind that blew her great hat off her head and into the daisies at her feet. She didn't bother with her hat or her rich hair that had ended up in front of her face. She simply kept her attention on the two people some yards away, a human and a demon, bound together for life.

Liebe gave Asta a handful of stargazer lilies.

And Vanessa understood.

*

Love was soft; love was slow. Yami knew that much, even if he'd never personally experienced it.

The shrimp was good at hiding it. He'd been loud and boisterous when he'd lost the feeling in his arms, but he'd never faltered from his goal, not once. Lives had been at stake, and failure simply hadn't been an option. The love of one's self was one thing, but loving another – Yami didn't know if Asta had ever truly experienced that before now.

The runt didn't shy away from much, but when Yami found him considering a handful of stargazer lilies in the light of a single lamp in their empty kitchen in the middle of the night, Yami knew it was serious. He'd only ever seen few meditate on an object this critically before, and he never thought Asta would be a part of that small cohort.

And yet, there was the resident shrimp, placidly plucking at the pink and white petals, thinking things when there shouldn't have been anything but hot air in that head of his.

Any other day, Yami would have teased the boy and threatened him to spill, only because Yami was a nosy bastard deep down, but not tonight. Tonight, he simply tip-toed away, leaving the runt to his thoughts.

Love was a process, after all.

*

Liebe was a person. He wasn't a project Asta could work on, or a goal Asta could work towards. Liebe was a person, even if he was a demon with horns and pointy teeth, so Asta couldn't charge forward without a plan.

Noelle figured it out when one night, Liebe was too tired to take his meal with the rest of them, and had to eat where he slept – in the bed above Asta's.

Henry had fashioned the bunk beds for them when Asta had proudly showed off the bracelet on his hand, that which linked him to the demon for life. Noelle had looked on with barely contained glee in her eyes because Liebe had been cute, almost like a little animal friend who only looked dangerous, but was actually very sweet.

She hadn't been wrong – Liebe was sweet. Liebe was kind. Liebe worked just as hard as Asta, even if he grumbled, grunted, and groused along the way. Liebe was quiet, but he wasn't stupid. He spoke when it was necessary, not when it was convenient, and he kept his thoughts to himself.

Noelle could never hide her feelings, much less her thoughts. She envied the demon. She envied his poise, his reservedness, and the aura of mystery that seemed to surround him at all times.

One could argue that she shouldn't have felt this way, since Nero was the same.

But Nero did not look to Asta with the kind of affection Noelle harbored for him. Nero loved Asta much like a mother loved her child, or perhaps how a bird loved its chick. Noelle loved Asta like how Vanessa loved Yami, but Noelle failed where Vanessa was scathingly efficient. Vanessa could hide anything behind her drunken smile and glassy eyes, whereas Noelle could barely hide her blush, much less her affections.

Liebe walked with his lips sealed and his heart locked away, and all Noelle witnessed was one creature pining after the other. Liebe was better at it, of course. Liebe was quiet; he was strong. He was strong in the way pillars were strong, sturdy and imposing. He barely spoke about his past, much less about his feelings, and yet his gaze seemed to perpetually linger on Asta, and when it wasn't, it'd harden with the kind of aloofness that Noelle both loved and loathed.

Asta was loud, but he was hesitant, an edge of stiffness haunting his every step because perhaps forever was a bit too long. She thought it was doubt at first, but then she'd started noticing the shifts in his smile, the way he'd stiffen when Liebe touched his arm to instruct him to calm down, when his eyes lingered on Liebe's back, his wings, the band around the demon's wrist that promised that they'd be together forever.

Noelle figured it out one rainy night after a long battle, too few brooms to bring them all home without getting wet in the storm, Finral passed out in Zora's arms after exhausting all of his magic, and Henry back at the base. Yami, Magna, and Secre had all walked with the rest in solidarity, because what were friends for, anyway? When they got home, Charmy whipped up a large pot of stew, rice, roast beef, and eggs in under two minutes. Finral snapped awake with the smell of roasting meat.

Liebe was too exhausted from the battle, so Asta had carried him back to the base on his back, and when they'd gotten home, tucked Liebe into the upper bunk that belonged to him.

Later, when Charmy went to make a plate to send up to their comrade via one of the many sheep bustling about, Asta gently shook his head and took the plate from her. Noelle watched him heap piles of rice, eggs, and beef onto separate plates, before pouring stew into porcelain bowls, and grabbing two jugs of water. He made his way up the stairs to his and Liebe's room without spilling or dropping a single thing.

Noelle didn't need to know what happened afterwards, because it didn't matter. All that mattered was that Noelle and the rest of the Black Bulls ate their dinner at the long table, while Asta dined with his beloved upstairs.

*

Love wasn't always loud and all-encompassing, Zora had learned. Sometimes, it was subtle, like the feelings the Wizard King had, had for his father, feelings he'd only come to learn about after snooping around the King's private rooms while he was busy being chased by the mushroom man. Sometimes, it was toxic, like the poison that was slowly killing the witch from the inside out. Oftentimes, it was unrequited, like the birdwoman's.

And sometimes, it was fated.

Zora knew Asta had made the contract out of duty to his kingdom, to his squad. Any other man would have seen a demon-binding ritual as a sacrifice of one's best years, and of their autonomy.

But not Asta.

Duty-bound he may have been, but even duty could create bonds. Asta had created a bond of friendship, and friends they'd been, until that friendship became something more.

Zora saw it much like a book, one that moved slowly but surely, saw each moment like it was a chapter, and every chapter led up to the inevitable conclusion – the one where the human and demon fell in love.

Zora had seen and learned about enough bad endings in his life to know that love was the greatest prank of them all. His love for his father hadn't saved him from being betrayed and murdered by his own squadmates. Love hadn't saved Noelle's mother from dying from Megicula's curse. Love hadn't saved the first Wizard King from turning to dust in front of the sobbing birdwoman.

At first, he'd assumed that love wouldn't do anything for the human and the demon who seemed to fit together like two sides of the same coin. He even suspected that they'd eventually fight again for dominance, because who would want to be forced into a union with another forever?

But this wasn't one of those endings – not when Zora started reading the footnotes, not when he started connecting the dots.

Asta and Liebe weren't like the Wizard King, a fool in gold and velvet, a coward who couldn't tell a peasant that he was in love with him, a coward who couldn't protect his beloved or look after his beloved's orphaned child. Asta and Liebe weren't cowards. If anything, Zora thought they were heroes.

It happened a year after they'd brought Yami Sukehiro home. They'd just finished rescuing a noblewoman from an actual, fire-breathing dragon who also turned out to be her shape-shifting lover, so then the Black Bulls had to rescue the noblewoman and her lady dragon lover from the real enemy, which turned out to be high taxes and anti-dragon sentiment, which then led the Black Bulls to smuggle the pair out of Clover before Damnatio and his lackeys found out.

It was all in a day's work, and they'd just gathered around the bonfire to eat Charmy's roasted pigeons when Zora saw that Asta was gripping Liebe's hand in his own, as if it were the most natural thing in the world, like their hands were born to be linked together, forever.

Zora would have thought he was thinking too deeply into matters if he hadn't caught them kissing some hours later. Arm in arm underneath the moonlight, Asta's arms were wrapped protectively around the lanky demon whose claws were tangled in Asta's ash grey hair. It wasn't the kind of kiss you witnessed on the street between shy teenagers learning to love, or grizzled elders who were beyond public displays of affection.

It was the middle of the night, and Zora had simply walked outside to take a stroll in the cool air before turning in for the night. He hadn't expected to find a runt and a demon passionately kissing beneath the moonlight like they'd just survived a war.

Zora smirked. Perhaps the past year was a war in it of itself, a series of battles that culminated with a woman and her dragon, and an escape into Heart where Undine and the Queen accepted creatures of all kinds.

Perhaps the war was finally over, and Asta and Liebe were finally happy.

*

“You did what?” Charmy hissed.

“I maaaaaaaaaade theeeeem oooooooone biiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiig beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed,” Henry said pleasantly.

“But they're still falling in love! We can't push love!! It has to go slowly, naturally!!!”

“Buuuuuut IIIIIIII saaaaaaaaaaw theeeeeem kiiiiiiiiissiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing laaaaaaast niiiiiiiiiiiight!”

“Kissing doesn't automatically mean relations, Henry you bastard,” Yami added, as scandalized as Charmy.

“Kiiiiiiissiiiiiiiiiiing iiiiiiiiis theeeeee fiiiiiiiiiiirst steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep,” Henry retorted with a bright smile.

“At least neither of them can get pregnant,” Vanessa sighed with relief.

“...... Do we know that for sure?” Gauche asked finally.

The Black Bulls sans Asta and Liebe turned to Gauche with narrowed eyes, and said in unison, “huh?”

“Do we know for sure that demons can't get pregnant?” Gauche snapped, averting his eyes and trying to stifle his growing blush.

“... oh my god,” Charmy wheezed.

“HENRY!” They all screeched.

*

“I love you,” Asta whispered softly into Liebe's skin, leaving kisses down his pale neck, his hands locked with Liebe's.

“I love you too,” and Liebe meant it.

*

[itzagothamcitysiren]

Welcome to the Family

So here’s the newest installment in my batman series :) I’m super excited for this one, especially with the response from my last two stories. I’m so used to using sites where the community is dead lol. This is very refreshing and motivating. I already have four out of the seven chapters written out! 

There's a Web That You Have Wove pt. 1

The one good thing Halley Wilson could say she’d taken away from her father was the ability to function on a minimal amount of sleep, a skill she’d never really had to put in action up until recently. The months flew by as she grew accustomed to her new life in Gotham City and she soon found her body adapted to the schedule she found herself repeating day in and day out that would be overwhelming to any other regular civilian.

           She couldn’t believe it’s already been nearly six months since she took up Bruce Wayne’s offer to become his newest crime fighting protégé. The time flew by as she spent night after night pounding her fists into the scum of Gotham’s underbelly. Although she wasn’t nearly as popular as Batman, or even Robin, she’d already started making a name for herself. People started whispering her name, criminal’s starting to turn the other way if they saw her jumping from building to building.

           It took some training to learn how to fight less lethally, learning that it was okay to pull back some punches here and there. It was tough for her at first, her first instinct always having been to take down her target as quickly and efficiently as possible. But she knew she if she wanted to work for Batman she had to adhere to his rules.  Justice, not vengeance, he always said.

           She grumbled, staring down at her textbook as she remember him repeating the phase last night on patrol. He hadn’t directed it to her, rather his other sidekick, Robin. Halley remembered the agitation Jason felt as Bruce laid it out for him once again as they reached the Batcave after another vexing night. Their weeks’ worth of tailing a smuggler had been thrown out the window and even Halley could help but feel some short of way towards Jason for screwing it up. She did believe though that Bruce went a little bit too far when he decided to bench Jason for the rest of the week.

           They had followed their guy to an abandoned apartment building, and after a few painstakingly boring hours of recon for the two teens, who’d been itching for a little action, Batman decided it was time for them to make their move.  They leapt to the opposing building, sneaking in from above and quickly and silently began clearing out the complex.  

           There were a couple dozen of guys and what appeared to be hostages, confirming that Batman’s hunch was correct; this was one of the safe houses for who people in Gotham merely called Stan the Pimp. His name made it pretty obvious as to what his career choice was and normally Batman wouldn’t interfere, leaving minor (minor to Gotham’s standards) for the cops to deal with. But when he caught wind of Stan taking his trade further, dabbling in adding children to his line up, Bruce knew the Batman was needed.

           Jason showed a particular fire during their little raid, jumping ahead of Batman and Nightshade once they came across the room filled with the missing kids. Nightshade tried going after him but Batman ordered her to stay with the children until the police came, Alfred already sending out a signal for Jim Gordon of their location.  Nightshade held the room, immobilizing anyone who tried to enter the room with her poisoned darts. They were non-lethal of course, but naturalizing agents she and Bruce cooked up, her wanting to start incorporating her name with her whole gimmick.  If Batman could put the word bat in front of everything he owned, she could have a couple of poison darts here and there.

           It wasn’t until the ride home in the batmobile did she realize something was wrong between the two. Batman was usually stern and quiet after a long and successful night, but there was something off about him. Especially the look he gave Jason when he took a seat in the front next to him. When they arrived back home it was than when her feeling was proven correct.  She thought she’d be the one struggling to take it easy on the criminals of Gotham, knowing how kill a person in at least a hundred different ways,  but she’d yet to have an incident of going overboard.

           She had learned however that Jason was an entirely different story. He had no limits, Bruce’s lessons still not drilled into his head somehow. He pushed Bruce’s buttons as hard as he could, always seeing how far he could go in a fight. He hadn’t come close to killing someone yet but whereas Bruce fought to solely subdue, Jason fought to send each criminal he punched to the hospital. Which was were their guy ended up last night.

           “”You shattered his collar bone!” Bruce had shouted as they began to settle into the Batcave.

           Jason scoffed, rolling his eyes as he ripped his domino mask off. He saved those kids lives that night, he didn’t care if their captor was now knocked out in a prison hospital bed. “He’s a child trafficking-pimp. I didn’t think I had to prop up some pillows before taking him out. He was going to shoot me.”

           Halley watched the pair, Bruce moving to almost get in his face. Halley looked at her feet, giving them a moment as she excused herself to get changed out of her costume. As she walked to the changing area the Batcave had, she overheard Bruce’s strict voice, “We needed him. Not all the kids were accounted for! He would’ve talked, but you put him into shock.”

           Halley played back the conversation, completely not focusing on the words coming out of her teacher’s mouth. She’d remembered Jason’s discouraged face he wore all morning and couldn’t help but feel bad. As Alfred tried talking to Bruce about last night’s disaster, Halley had tried talking to Jason as they walked the halls into their first class but he just shrugged her off and said he was fine. She hadn’t seen him since, hoping that he hadn’t skipped and get himself into more trouble with Bruce.

           Slamming her textbook close as she heard the bell ring, she began shoving it into her backpack. She was starving and wanted to get to the cafeteria as soon as possible to try and beat the lines. Her pathway out of the room was blocked immediately though and she groaned, looking up to glare at who prevented her from exiting the classroom. Inwardly groaning again and mentally rolling her eyes, she tried plastering a fake smile on her face, but she was too tired to try that hard.

           In front of her stood Sam Bennet, the girl she had shadowed when she first started at Gotham Academy. The black haired girl smiled at her widely, holding her phone up for Halley to see. The vigilante looked at the screen, unsure what she was looking at. It was some Facebook event page. Sam proceeded to excitedly point to the screen, opening her mouth to talk, “I tried inviting you to this but I couldn’t because we aren’t Facebook friends.”

           Halley bite the inside of her cheek as the girl spoke. She tried walking again, and the girl followed. Ever since she saw Dick dropping off and picking up her and Jason from school a few weeks back, Sam had been practically begging without verbally asking to become friends with Halley. She’d tried with Jason but Jason wasn’t as polite as Halley, and kindly told her to fuck off. The crush she had on Dick was unbearable now, and even someone as polite as Halley had noted her patience was running short with all the pestering.

           “I don’t have a Facebook.” Halley muttered, hoping that the girl would finally get the hint. Alas, she pressed on, not skipping a step and keeping up with the brunette.

           “What? How do you survive?” Sam gasped appalled. She waved her off after she was done gaping. “Regardless, I wanted to invite you to the party I’m throwing this weekend. My parents are going on a skiing trip and I’ll have the whole house to myself so you know, party!” She laughed obnoxiously, already taping away at her phone again.  “I’ll text you the address, you can head over around seven!”

           Halley rolled her eyes, as the girl looked at her phone. She felt her phone buzz in her pocket, angry that the girl had managed to get her phone number. They’d been paired up for a presentation in their English class last mouth and they had to exchange numbers in order to keep up to date on their progress with the project. She nodded, having no intent on going but didn’t want to give the girl anymore reason to carry on this conversation. Halley sneered at the back of Sam’s head as she walked away, throwing a wave back at her.

           Turning down the hall, getting closer to the cafeteria, she nearly screamed when she was pulled backwards and into a classroom. Jerking her arm away as the door closed, her eyes looked enraged as she looked up to face her kidnapper. Her gaze turned into a glare as she saw Jason standing in front of the door, closing it and locking it.

           “What the hell, Todd.” She growled along with her stomach; she just wanted food.

           Jason smirked at how miffed she was and crossed his arms against his chest, with a roll of his eyes. Taking a step back he reached for his backpack he left on the empty teacher’s desk. Unzipping it without a word he pulled out two brown bags, the familiar logo softening Halley’s face while bringing a smug smile to Jason’s.

           “Caroline’s?” She gasped, taking the bag he outreached for her. Opening it she found herself a burger and order of onion rings from what had become her favorite diner in Gotham City. Dick often brought her and Jason there whenever he was in town. Popping an onion ring in her mouth she nearly moaned at the greasy treat before narrowing her eyes back at Jason. “Don’t tell me you skipped to go get this?”

           Jason merely reached into his own bag and pulled out his own meal, leaning against the desk with a shrug. Halley gave him a disappointed look before letting her backpack fall to the floor. She watch him as he took a giant bite out of his burger, signally that they were apparently eating in the abandoned classroom. He was probably hiding from the principal and didn’t want to get caught with the food. Letting out a sigh, she moved to take a seat at one of the desks, too hungry to argue with him about it.

           They sat in silence for a couple of minutes, stuffing their faces with the unhealthy foods, trying not to think of the look of disappointment Alfred would be giving them if he saw what they were eating. It wasn’t until she was halfway done with her burger did she look up at Jason again. He sat on top of the desk, clearly still upset about last night as he barely ate his food. She gulped down the last few bites that were in her mouth and lowered the burger.

           “Are you okay?” She sighed, breaking the silence.

           Jason nodded, even though they both knew he was lying. He was still extremely hurt by Bruce benching him yet again. It was like Bruce was regretting letting him be Robin at this point by the amounts of times he took him off the field. How did he expect Jason to learn anything and get better if he was constantly stuck in his room and not out by his side like Robin should be?

           It wasn’t even just that. Jason genuinely believed he wasn’t doing anything wrong. These were criminals they were dealing with. Murders, rapists-, psychopaths. Why should they go easy on them? They didn’t deserve to be let off easy, especially the low-lives they dealt with last night. They were dealing innocent kids and they were lucky that only one of them got off with a shattered collar bone.

           “They were scum.” Jason hissed, putting the burger in his bag, not hungry anymore as he thought back to the terrified faces of those kids.

           “I agree with you.” Halley nodded, doing the same. She pushed the bag out of her way, letting her arms rest on the desk. “They deserve a lot more than what they got.” She agreed, but once she saw Jason’s eyes already getting fired up she trailed back a bit. “But, Bruce is right. We’re no better than them if we start killing every person we fight. Take it from me, I know what it’s like to kill someone, it’s not the greatest feeling in the world.”

           Jason bit his lip, trying to think before he spoke with her. He’d been surprised with how much they actually got along since she came back from to the manor. Once she got comfortable and opened up more, Jason couldn’t help but look up to the girl and respect her. She was amazing on the field. Batman was still Batman, but he’d never seen someone fight quite like she did. Her movements were swift, almost fluid, seeing as she didn’t have a lot of muscle mass compared to someone like himself or Bruce, or even Dick; she had to think of other ways to take down stronger advisories. It was like time almost slowed down with how fast she could knock someone off their feet as she could hyper-analyze their movements and match them in a split second. She knew just how to take someone down with one look, and always knew how to react when the situation was growing sour.

           But even with all of that he couldn’t help but feel some sort of animosity towards her. She clearly out shined him when it came to a lot of things. Batman never had to chastise her for not following orders or for going out of line. Once Bruce taught her his ways, she was the star student, which only pointed out Jason’s flaws more and more with each patrol. He couldn’t help but think she’d make a better Robin than he ever could and that thought hurt. Being Robin was all he had and now he just had to sit back and watch as Bruce turned to her over him more and more. Jason knew it wasn’t the girl’s fault but he was who he was, and being bitter about it was a natural given.

           “I’m not talking about killing anyone, I’m talking about why the fuck am I going to go easy on someone who sells kids like they’re sex dolls?” Jason spat, flaring his arms out. He tensed, seeing Halley cringe at his bluntness, her face looking flustered. He let out a long breathe, running a hand through his hair. “Sorry, it just really ticks me off, you know? This city is a shit show and I just don’t see us truly helping.” He paused, looking at her softly. She nodded, pushing him to keep going. Letting out another sigh, he did. “It’s just a constant cycle, we catch the bad guys, they get put away; then they either make bail or get busted out and then it just repeats, over and over-, what good are we really doing?”

           Halley frowned, agreeing with him completely but still felt conflicted. She also agreed with Bruce; they weren’t killers and who would they be if they started to be? They were supposed to be better than them, they were supposed to give Gotham something good to believe in. But Jason was right, their system was flawed. She noticed that within her first few nights patrolling the streets as a string of murders haunted the East End. They caught him of course but he only lasted a few weeks in Arkham before escaping. Their culprit had been Victor Zsasz, and his methods of killing had been a little more horrifying than Halley would care to admit. In her many years of being paid to kill people she’d never seen anything quite like the mess they walked in.

           Frowning deeper, seeing Jason now staring out the window blankly, she made a decision. She’d talk to Bruce tonight about her concerns and she’d stick up for Jason’s actions last night; it’s not like anyone else did.

[ferie-anon]

Hiii!! Are ships open?? I would like to get a ship with nct dream. If it's okay😊 I'm Sagittarius sun, Cancer moon and rising, Capricorn mercury and venus, and Pisces Mars. Thank you btw😘😘😊😊😊

Hii, so I’ll do yours~ Ooh Sag sun with cancer moon, baby energy spotted, but those capricorn placements (capricorn mercury and venus) whoaa, sensing another duality opponent 🤭✨. As your sag sun with cancer moon suggests, you may carry an optimistic point of view of the world, and you can get playful or bringing fun to the room when you’re bored. (Your sag sun can be quite down to earth enabling for easier chemistry and others to relax around you, while your cancer moon can be caring and emotionally abundant (to yourself and to others). However, as much as you can be giving, a listener, and compassionate... your capricorn mercury and venus says they don’t stand bs :D. Your mercury and venus in cap brings a sense of realism and un-filtered thoughts that may be the truth or your honest opinions at times. You search and desire for genuineness, as well has an orderly or scheduled manner regarding your serious interests of hobbies and important goals, or desires. This allows you to be able to maintain yourself after a while having fun and jovial times, like you can have a little easier control over your emotions.

This recurring duality can be heightened as you have pisces mars and cancer rising with your previously touched upon cancer moon, with the amount of water energy as these signs are water signs, you may choose or behave more in line with your heart and emotion of thoughts rather than the mature and realistic way, and combined with your cap mercury and venus you can choose your sharp raw communication ways that can unintentionally hurt others feelings during arguments and such. ( A baby that has tiny sharp claws 🐥✨🦅 🌙🔪) Your capricorn venus isn’t exactly one with the physical affection display, yet you have a deep desire of care(sorta like subtle nurture but like in a more calm manner) and sense of responsibility towards your friends and loved ones. Along with your cancer moon and rising you are very sincere and may be unknowingly or naturally acting in a motherly way or a nurturing figure towards them, all the while maintaining a youthful jolly disposition at times to relax. Its quite balanced your loose positive side that is aware of the harsh reality and mature concepts of life. Your pisces mars sorta enables you to be a day dreamer at times with your goals and aspirations and so there may be a delay or procrastination in the process of seeking the initiation or move towards it, but your capricorn mercury and venus eventually pulls ahead to push u~ 🌱⚡️🌙✨🐥🦅

In Nct dream, your match is... Renjun! 

Renjun here has aries sun with scorpio moon~ Oh he’s a savage alright, rather he’s quite frank towards his members at times (mainly Haechan lol) however he can also be quite deep or generally sensitive at times. (Cue Renjun marking Haechan as his enemy jk loll) Indeed he is also really just a smol lil talented guy, singing with all his emotions becuz man do scorpio moons can get into feel with music at times. With you and renjun, first meeting was like a random wind up to you. It felt unexpected and at the same time felt totally called for, as if the universe said that you two would get along rlly well ^_^. After all, you two had picked up an immediate connection on similar interests, vibe, and just chilling with each other~

First, let’s deep dive into his scorpio moon. These natives generally feel emotions deeply and are capable of detecting emotions from others, due to their intuitive sense. Similarly, despite Renjun comprehending intense emotions maybe when he is down or sensitive, sometimes he doesn display these emotions publicly and we see his comedic angry expression/reaction a lot for fun and variety online. However, as both of you have a water sign in the moon placement, cancer and scorpio, you both can understand each others deep feelings and reactions personally due to a connective empathy you each share to each other. Thus, you two may be thoughtful or attentive to others needs and inner issues, talking it out more due to an ease at communicating as an inherent comprehension and absorption of mutual emotions strengthens trust in your bond.

Next up, he has mercury in pisces! This is the interesting aspect, as despite his honest ways his communication skills can be more soft and muddled into feeling the atmosphere of words and tones, whereas your capricorn mercury can straight up be direct and upfront that could cause a few waves and taken aback at times, like sometimes even if he knows you mean well, he could feel a little hurt or sensitive about it. However, with his water energy, Renjun is also understanding so after a few words exchanged of clarification he would understand you meant well. He appreciates your honest and sincere ways, as genuine feelings usually are the best feelings, especially with his intuitive sense he probably could sense a lie or deception occurring so he appreciates your raw and definite thoughts. You would appreciate his easygoing softness/nature, you two would have a light-hearted atmosphere around you whenever you two hang out, light hearted jokes and laughter :3, and Renjun would be fun to hang around as he is quite creative and mischievous so expect pranking to occur between yall at a frequent basis :>.  

Renjun’s venus is in piscess. Another interesting synastry to your capricorn venus, it has a similar working as the mercury aspects I explained in the paragraph above, Renjun’s display of affection and love is sweet and dreamy like a movie, while your capricorn venus is subtle and reservedly thoughtful and considerate. It’s a nice balance though, and even though it has some ups and downs with you being a little more quiet and shy on showing physical affection, eventually Renjun’s hugs and hand-holding will make you melt your timidness. Physical affection would probably be more personal, but eventually you are more confident in displaying the affection publicly maybe with other friends around but it may be only occasional. The well mellow balance is because of your preferred nature of affection and care to be more quiet and in a personal manner, can perfectly be matched with Renjun’s genuine sweet affection that lets you be more comfortable over your love language with each other~ Of course, every relationship will always have an issue or so, and with your less showy nature at times misunderstandings can occur, with Renjun feeling a little down if you may be less touchy or seem distant at times. “ Y/n do you still love me.. why don’t you let me hug you for a long time :(...~”

Lastly his mars is in taurus, and he is quite determined and consistent in his path, desires and approaches to his goals. He slowly improves for his skills and is more calm in deciding what he wants for himself. Another nice balance here is that his grounded taurus mars can help your pisces mars come to a conclusion or decision of your own individual needs and could guide you sorta. Your pisces mars can be a little unclear to itself of your motivations and future, so Renjun could help give advice or provide some direction to help find your individual goals and aspirations :3. While he also appreciates your pisces mars, (as it aspects his pisces venus and pisces mercury) he may feel aligned and in tune with your creativity and “selfless” actions. With the pisces energy similarly between you two, there will be visible trust and regarding others needs at times as more important. However, you both have a healthy dose of self appreciation and giving affection, so you both don’t drain each other out by only giving away love whilst not receiving enough for themselves. (Aw you guys are pretty soft together it makes me 🥺)

Overall, the self assured baby savage couplee, you guys teamed together would make for a killer roasting partner. Marshmallows would be burnt at the end of your savage remarks as a duo. You two love to reassure and give confidence to each other (whether by hyping each other up, or moral sypport etc) its quite obvious and everyone else is sorta envious lol. And baby energy for days u two~ Your vibes -> 🧸✨⚡️ 🦔 ❣️🌑💖🎵🤸🏻‍♂️💐

[thesorceryman]

Possession is defined as ‘‘the belief that an individual has been entered by an alien spirit or other Para human force, which then controls that person and alters his action and identity. The word Jinn in Arabic (Alujonnu in Yoruba "borrowed from Arabic word JINN") refers to something that is (concealed and hidden from the human eyes ) in Al-Qaamoos Al’muheet ( which is the biggest Arabic dictionary of all times ) said this about the word ” JINN ” { Jannahu al-layla } which means ( the night covered him ) ( or concealed him) so this word simply means some being who is Hidden from the normal human eye. JINNS (demons or devils) are unseen creatures that are believed to exist in all major religions and have the power to possess humans and cause them harm. Jinn possession can manifest with a range of bizarre behaviors and unusual movements which could be interpreted as several different psychotic, non-psychotic mental disorders as well as feelings of the implant by foreign bodies or aliens. They do, common with humans, such as they also have the ability to, however, possess some characteristics in the ability to think and reflect. Similarly, choose between the path of good and the path of evil in the same manner as humans.

These are conscious beings, which are invisible, among the ordinary people they are known as ‘fairy’, ‘giant’, ‘genie’, ‘ghost’, ‘JINN’, ‘elf’, ‘aliens’ and various other names are given to them depending on the image they display. The people think that they are the SPIRITS of the dead people, so they try to establish contacts with them by calling them. Last but not least, these conscious beings introduce themselves as ’BEINGS FROM OUTER SPACE’ to those people whose level of knowledge is insufficient to be able to buy their stories. The JINN takes its existence, its liveliness, and its ‘self’ conscious from the absolute ‘SPIRIT’. With regards to the perfection it possesses within the consciousness, it is something that comes after the ‘HUMAN BEING’ in the whole universe. It is fully aware of its own consciousness only after it can enfold itself in the periphery (the body of light). This, in a way, can be considered as the birth of the JINNS concerning their structures.

Their death in the absolute sense takes place right at the moment of the doomed event, just like human beings. Their death in the simplest sense (i.e. the kind of death we know in general) takes place whenever their periphery (body of light) gets isolated from them at the end of their planned life span. The JINNS can understand the death of each other simply by finding out the loss of another jinni from their group. Even though their lifetimes are as long as the humans in reality, due to their structure and some properties they possess, this period could be as high as the age of 700-1000 when compared with us. In actual fact, when their life span of 60-70 years concerning their own unit of time is compared with our unit of time, we can see that it amounts to a life span of nearly 1000 years. Due to their structural behaviour, they also possess quite sophisticated potentials and some of them are even more superior to humans in terms of their conscious level. However, it is known for sure that the superior human being is much more superior to the most superior JINN. Concerning their character, they are weaker than humans. They are more inclined to display such behaviours, which can be considered as negative. In general, they deal with such activities. Despite this fact, there are also good ones among them as well as the ones who are more religious and even ones who are saints although this is very rare.

Their most significant characteristics and pleasure is to manipulate the weak points of the people, make individuals depend on them and make them do what they want, make them serve as well as worship them as if they were their servants.

So what are the ” Elemental Spirits “ ?

Elementals spirits are what some call the Nature Spirits or Devas or the Faeries . this type of Spirits have only one element to their nature usually Air, Fire, Water and Earth , so Djinns are part of the Fire Spirits.

Yes, the Spirits of the Four Elements are divided into four categories, earth, air, fire, and water. Let us look at each of them in turn.

1. EARTH: Earth spirits, that is the beings, which relate to rocks, stones, minerals, precious gems, hills, and mountains are traditionally called in English ( Gnomes ). All aspects of the solid physical structure of the planet come under their domain. Although they can be found within rocks, they also have the freedom to move around but generally stay close to the ground. They are a) Gnomes b) Kobolds c) giants d) mountain spirits, they are short about 1 to 2 feet tall and thy look old with full beard those are the Gnomes or the Ghulz, the other type are bigger and bit taller, most of them live underground, under the trees or on hilltops.

2. WATER: Water spirits are connected to all liquids, but their presence can be felt in a much more powerful way by streams, rivers, lakes, and, of course, the sea. They are traditionally known as Undines, they have males and females. but their females are shining as if wet, is female, nude and without wings, the exquisite limbs gleam through the white auric flow, the arms are particularly long and beautiful, and she waves them gracefully in her flight. She is about four feet in height and her general coloring is silvery-white, with gold stars around the head.

3. AIR: The spirits of the air are connected to all gaseous substances but like water, beings are best sensed in winds and breezes. Because air moves so quickly they can be difficult to pin down. They are known as Sylphs in tradition although the perception of a ‘fairy’ with tiny wings that can fly is a close approximation to how they appear to children.

These live in the element air and are like light in the atmosphere. Sensitive to the movement of the atmosphere, they have a sleepy consciousness. Their task is to transfer light to the plants. The stream of air caused by a flying bird creates a sound they can hear. They like birds flying through the air. Sylphs are connected to movement in space, like modeling and directing the wind. Elves (or fairies) are more connected to the expansion of life in their area.

4. FIRE: (these are what most people call the JINN ) Fire spirits can be found in volcanoes in nature but also in any fire, from candle to inferno. They are known as Salamanders or Vulcanii and are the most difficult of all of the elementals to connect with, being said to the only associate with philosophers and adepts of the magical arts.

Possession worldwide is found more commonly in women and marginalized groups and maybe a vehicle through which they can express their complaints in a context in which they can be heard. Spirit possession generally occurs in cultural contexts in which the self is more likely to be fragmented. Whether or not possession is itself seen as pathological is dependent on the cultural context in which it occurs; by no means are all cases of possession seen as signs of illness. Being possessed by demons or evil spirits is one of the oldest ways of accounting for bodily and mental disorders. The idea that spirit possession and mental illness are related has a long historical legacy.

Possessed individuals sometimes exhibit symptoms similar to those associated with mental illnesses such as psychosis, hysteria, mania, Tourette syndrome, epilepsy, schizophrenia, or dissociative identity disorder; this includes involuntary or uncensored behaviour. Since possession is not normative in Western cultures, it is the cultural context that determines the distinction between psychosis and the spiritual. Spirit possession is a culturally specific way of displaying symptoms of psychosis, dissociation, social anxiety, etc., and is a fairly global idiom of distress. That is, whereas a person with psychosis in the West may believe he is being controlled by a computer, a member of a community that beliefs in spirit possession may believe his body to be taken over by a demon.

How does JINN possess people?

1. Weak spiritual protection

2. Hexing and cursing

1. WEAK SPIRITUAL PROTECTION : The JINNS establish their connections especially with nervous women following the time they’ve given birth to a baby or during illnesses accompanied by high fever or during accidents. This is because during those periods, the brain is busy with the extra activity taking place in various parts of the body and therefore the human being simply cannot have control over the brain’s activity in a desired manner. As a result, the JINN takes over the control in the related part of the brain at that particular weak moment by becoming visible

to the person in whatever form he likes and force him/her to do whatever he desires.

Sometimes this act of forcing can take place by the impulses that the JINN sends to the part of the brain that is connected with the faculty of pain centre and making the individual feel that pain. At other times, by triggering the centre of fear, JINN could make the individual even more frightened so that the individual can do whatever they desire. Most probably, what is simply being carried out is that they send out light signals to a certain centre in the individual’s brain and therefore create the desired effect. Whenever the mediums go into a trance, they experience exactly the same situation. This is the reason why they are asked to relax and let themselves loose in the first place. Here, the objective is to decrease the control that the human being has over his

brain. In this way, the JINN desired to be contacted would be able to possess the individual more easily. In such connections, the women particularly say that the JINN becoming visible before their eyes appear as a very handsome man.

The JINNS who establish contacts openly with the women or the young girls usually marry them and have sexual intercourse with them. During these connections, the women see the JINN as a solid object and have a sexual contact with it as if it were a male from the human kind. However, as the JINN do not have a tangible solid physical body, then the following question comes to the minds.

How on earth the JINN who cannot even be transformed into a complete physical object can manage to satisfy a woman belonging to the human race during this connection?. Under such conditions, the JINN stimulate the part of sexuality centre in the brain of the woman involved and cause her to get satisfaction. As a matter of fact, all the scientists who work in the field of physiology know very well that when an electro shock is applied to a certain centre of the brain, it is possible to make that person do whatever you want. In fact, these are just the sort of contacts, which do not only take place between a woman from the human kind and a man from the class of JINNS. There can also be a sexual relation between a woman from the class of JINNS and a man from the humankind as well. Moreover, it is also said that the JINNS have homosexual contacts too. In all of these connections, the point which is usually discovered in common is that a member of the JINN makes a contact with a human being only for the purpose of fulfilling his selfish desires on the human being forcefully. In general, the people who have been forced into such positions do complain about this. These events take place without consent of the individual.

In such cases, especially when there is a connection between a woman from the human kind and a man from the class of JINNS, the woman isolates herself from the world outside and most of the time she wants to stay in a room.

2. HEXING AND CURSING: These are done by individuals who possesed power to manipulate or control JINNS to do whatever they want. In this case, the JINN is sent to forcefully ententer the body of the victim and do as it pleases. The victim will exhibit some of the symptoms listed below.

SYMPTOMS OF POSSESSION

1. Hearing voices

2. Erratic behaviour in one's words, deeds, and movement.

3. Being quick to get angry or weep with no apparent cause

4. Seeing metaphysical objects

5. Irregular menstruation in women

6. Constant headache

7. Frightening nightmares which include seeing various kinds of creatures such as ghosts, or apparitions, seeing oneself falling from a high place, seeing people in strange forms and snakes.

8. Insomnia, anxiety, and fear upon waking.

9. Talking loudly in one's sleep, or moaning and groaning.

10. Having sex in dreams.

All these symptoms still need to be examined by a professional or priest before establishing the fact that truly one is possessed by JINN through reading or divination.

Nowadays, the medical science cannot diagnose these cases and therefore they try to cure the patient by means of applying electro-shock for the sake of the positive science. However, in these cases too, hardly any result can be obtained. At the end of the electro-shock process, there is a disorder and an agitation in the brain cells of the individual causing a state of calmness. This of course does not mean that the person has been cured, it is because of the disturbance that she had due to the shock. Generally, it is seen that the people who have good healing powers can correct such situations by way of prayers, spells and ritual blown upon to the depressed person.

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms above or needs spiritual help, contact me. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @thesorceryman

[inupibaldspot]

Saviour : Chapter 17

From spring it slowly turned into summer. Cherry blossoms which was once surrounded the area were no more.

The team were back in their own tree house.And to say the weather was bad was an understatement, with heavy rain and strong winds.

The boys were currently playing pirate, with Ace holding the wheel and Luffy on the crow nest.

"The wind is really strong! Blow stronger." Ace and Sabo who were enjoying the weather said.

"Luffy!" Emilia called out. "You should come down. The wind might blow you away!" She started climbing the stairs leading to the crownest. Seriously, if we were to add Luffy's clumsiness and his luck for attracting trouble nothing is impossible.

As if god had heard what Emilia said and mess with her, not even a second later a strong wind blew,making Luffy lose his footing. But due to his stretchable hands he was still holding onto the tree house.

"Luffy!" Emilia shouted. Rushing to reach Luffy.

"Are you alright?!" Ace and Sabo also rushed, worried.

However looking at it closely,the way Luffy was looking was quite halious. The way the boy's hands were stretched like a rope and his body flapping like a flag. "What are you doing,Luffy?" Ace and Sabo laughed at the comical scene.

"Stop laughing and save me!"

Emilia finally reached the top of the ladder leading to to crow nest. But as she was grabbing Luffy's hand his hands slipped making him fly away.

Without a second thought Emilia jumped with full force breaking the floor in the process. Emilia stretched her hands and tried to hold onto Luffy. "Luffy! Grab my hand!"

Luffy listened to her and stretched his rubber like hands. Emilia quickly held onto it and pulled Luffy towards her, however when she attempted to land on a huge branch due to the slippery place one of her legs landed funny making a bolt of pain rush in.

Emilia withstood the pain and jumped from the branch with Luffy still in her hands and finally reached the ground.

"Wow! Emilia is amazing!" Luffy smiled with his hands in the air.

"You guys okay?!" Ace and Sabo who were also on the ground ran towards them.

"Ugh..." Emilia groaned.

Luffy looked back and saw Emilia on the ground. Her hands held on her right leg with her face looking in pain.

"Emilia?" Luffy worriedly called out.

"What happened,Emilia?!" Sabo asked.

"I'm fine." Emilia said,composing her self. "I just sprained my ankles. I'll be fine with about a few days of rest."  Thank God it's not a second degree sprain. Emilia said to herself. This would only take about 4 day to heal. Whereas a second degree would usually take more than 4 weeks. That is if she remembered correctly from the book.

"Get on."

"Hm?" Emilia questioned. Ace was in front of her crouched down, hands facing her indicating her to get on his back.

"No..." Emilia shook her head.

"Huh?! Get on already."

"No way..."

In the end Emilia lost.

"Wahhh! The rain finally stopped!" Luffy shouted looking at the sky.

"Yeah! Let's go get food." Ace replied with a smile. He look at Emilia who was was sitting down, face red. "You still sulking that I carried you here."

"Hahaha!" Sabo laughed at the scene.

"But it was embarrassing." Emilia said ,pouting her face still abit red.

"Emilia just stay here. We'll go get some food." Sabo said walking towards the door followed by Ace and Luffy. "But first let's go get some wood from Grey Terminal  so we can fix the damage on the tree house."

"Yeah!" Luffy jumped.

"You guys!" Emilia called out before they left. "Please be careful. When we were staying with Naguri in Grey Terminal there were a two or three guys who were keeping watch on us.They didn't seem hostile then but we can't be so sure."

"You're implying they might be Blue Jam's men?" Ace asked.

"Maybe." Emilia said. "Could be anyone...Just be careful."

"Got it."

Emilia watched as they climbed down the house. She then stood and looked down on the guys who were leaving. Luffy turned back and waved bye to her, to which Emilia also waved immediately.

In the corner of her eyes she saw a small pink flower on the wet ground, really small but the bright colour which made it catch Emilia's attention . A cyclamen.

.......

"What did you say?" Emilia managed to let out in a soft voice.

After the boy left Emilia kept on waiting, reading a book she managed to borrow from the doctor who taught her medicine. But sky kept on getting darker. And when they finally did return, one of them was missing.

"Sabo was taken back by his father." Ace looked down on his feet, his hands clenched."We should have been more careful."

Luffy who was beside Ace was whipping off his tears.

Emilia stayed quite for a while and finally look at Ace. " I dont want you two be reckless and try to get Sabo back. At least not now. And as long as Sabo stays in the High Town, where the nobles live, he is safe."

Emilia limped towards Ace and took hold of his hand. "For now let's be grateful you guys are fine." She said as she slowly opened Ace's clenched hands, which Ace didn't even know he was clenching so tightly.

In the morning Ace and Luffy would wake up really early and go hunt for food. After that Ace would make make breakfast for all of them and would shout if Emilia volunteered to help. Followed by both Ace and Luffy rushing off somewhere.

And everytime Emilia would ask where they were going, they would never answer properly. And this action continued for two more days. Of course Emilia did use her haki and see where there were going ( at least till the range she could cover ) but each time they would always seem to go towards one particular direction, the direction which led to Grey Terminal.

Emilia shook her dead shaking off any doubt she felt at the moment. They said they wouldn't go there.

"But they sure are late today." Emilia muttered to herself as she stood up and walked towards the window. Her eyes widened when she saw vast bright lights coming in the direction where Grey Terminal would be situated. A fire?!

Ace! Luffy!

Emilia climbed down ignoring the pain she felt on her leg. If she were to go to Grey Terminal and if the two boys would be in trouble, she might not be of much use more so if Blue Jam' s crew would be involved. No...I could be a bait and make Luffy and Ace escape.

But she quickly dismissed the thought.Knowing Ace and Luffy, they would refuse to leave her alone. And that meant she only had one choice. Emilia ran as fast as she could in the opposite direction.

After a while she finally reached a familiar looking house.

"Dadan!!!" Emilia shouted as she reached near the door. And almost immediately the woman who was called and her gang rushed outside. It wasn't every day that they heard Emilia let out such a shout.

"Dadan, Ace and Luffy might be in trouble." Emilia huffed, still tired from running.

Dadan looked at the girl in front of her. The girl had a few injury here and there but most noticeable were her right leg, which were swollen and had developed a blue and purple colour to it.

"Please....please...." Emilia cried out bending her knees and lowering her head towards Dadan. "Please...They might be in danger."

Emilia  continued to prostrate herself to Dadan. "Please save them! I probably won't be much help but I'll also come along! I'll can be the bait so please somehow use the chance to forcefully take Luffy and Ace somewhere safe!"

Dadan walked over to the girl. "I won't!"

The world suddenly felt so silent for Emilia when those words were heard. Her body felt really cold and she could feel her body tremble. Emilia's eyes widened. She wanted to cry. How useless could I be!

"I won't take you along with us, Emilia! Look at yourself, you're in no position to even walk." Dadan shouted as she continued to walk forwards, her men also following her.

"In a way, I am you brats' foster parent! As if a parent will be there to watch her children get hurt!" Dadan shouted. "You just stay here and wait for good news!"

"Thank you....thank you so much..."

[neshabeingchildish]

League of Extraordinary Geniuses || Chapter 1

A/N: I never actually rated this, I don’t believe, but there’s a little bit of cussing here, I can’t tell you yet exactly which direction everything is going in. I’m predominantly an angst writer and I do have a lot to give to this story, mainly with Chase, just because, plain and simple... I don’t know if that man has really had people in his corner the way that he’s needed in the past, so there’s things to work through with him in particular and there’s always things to sort of try to get over and into in relationship dynamics and moreso when more people are involved than two. Also, at least two of these people are workaholics, so work projects, assignments, flashbacks, etc, will be something that is likely to appear a lot as a backdrop. The work won’t always be things that we, or even sometimes they agree with, but it’ll be there. Tagging only who I heard from last time @kiddangers @sunbeameyes @just-a-j-reallly @supercasperprincesslove-blog Let me know if I need to take you off. Edit: Thunderbolt headcanon from flashback was introduced to me by @famousflowermagazine (You don’t have to read, but I wanted to make sure that I credited your idea)

They’re the Same Picture

Charlotte woke up to the hyper sounds of the excited yipping of puppies and she immediately got out of bed and headed for the courtyard. The caretaker was out there, minding them, but when they saw Charlotte, they rushed back to her and she waved to let the caretaker know that the puppies were coming with her. They were light brown with black ears, and wearing matching little malleable outfits. She brought them to her lab and let the caretaker worry about accepting her guests, because she left her phone in the bedroom and she was not going to pick it up any time soon. 

She had one group chat titled Defenders for herself, Henry and Jasper, and it was the most used one in her phone. She had one titled Bionic Forces, for Chase and his siblings, and sometimes Donald. She had been added to that one at one point by Leo, whenever he had to casually ask her a question that she could somehow feel was tied to a catastrophe that he and his older brother, Adam were trying to evade at the Academy (and if she was being honest, one of them probably started), and she didn’t get involved again in that one until after she met Chase and he at’ed her to say that he realized that she had been in this old GC of theirs before. Now, she frequently visited and used it. 

She had one titled Elite Force, one titled T-Force, and one titled Danger Force and she hadn’t thought about how many Force teams had a GC with herself and the members, or even the fact that she knew several Force teams, until those three were active and she kept switching between the 3, one particular day. IF. EVER. There was another triple crisis, she vowed that two androids would have to get onto cloned phones and be her, because trying to sort out more than a dozen names and comments for a foreseeable incident was… a mess. 

Fortunately, Chase, Max, and Mika each took initiative in their respective chats after a while to be the point of contact and unclutter the chat at the time. But still… There were androids capable of evaluating very accurately exactly what Charlotte might think and say to responses.

She had several GCs that were business related, several that were science-for-fun related, one that was the Bionic Academy mentors, one that was everyone that she knew who had bionics, one that was everyone that she knew who was a superhero, one that was her team of androids, and one that was her lab workers. 

She was a busy woman who knew busy people, but she also was the type that liked to be helpful to friends and associates and to keep up with her loved ones and business relationships. So, most of the ones who she had GCs with… They also individually texted with her, as well.

Currently, her most frequent ones were from Henry or Jasper, who truth be told, would likely be texting her frequently for the rest of the three of their lives as lifelong best friends. Almost as frequently though were Chase Davenport and Max Thunderman.

It was a little shocking to her after she met Chase, to find out that they were extremely alike in a lot of ways, considering how differently the conversations she had with each of them went. Chase was always the perfect gentleman. If she mentioned a problem, he would factually assess it, give her stats, numbers, wish her well and ask her to touch base with him later to let him know if his assistance was fruitful. 

Max was less precise, but as correct in advice… he could probably give her stats, but knew that they weren’t usually needed and it wasn’t his default to calculate outside of an invention or something where exact numbers were necessary. Also, he was a little more profane. 

Whereas Chase might say something like, “I’m sorry that they’re making you jump through these hoops at a place of business. That is terrible customer service. Do they not realize who you are?”

Max would say, “Those guys are dicks. Just drop your name and get ‘em fired.” 

Which… was in essence the same response, to her, as their responses frequently were, and yet worlds apart. That was who they were, in her mind too. The same great person presented in two extremely different, but equally attractive ways. She valued them on the same level, though she was closer to Max, because she had known him longer and gone through more with him.

Whenever Max posted his video journal of gadgets and inventions, Charlotte noticed (and this was whenever she was in Dystopia, towards the beginning of the trio’s rise in popularity there), that he had both artwork of Dystress, her alter ego on his wall, and Charlotte Page accolades. News and fanfare!

She honestly lost her shit for a moment and squealed to Henry and Jasper, “This guy that creates gadgets and shares them online KNOWS ABOUT ME!” They had been in the habit of listening to her, but what were the odds of some dude from Hiddenville who posted science projects online for nerdy strangers like Charlotte to wind down, chewing on ice and making comments like, “I didn’t expect that to work out so well. This dude’s a genius!” just knowing about Charlotte, tucked away in one of the most silenced charities in Dystopia?

She pointed out and zoomed in on things on his wall - framed photos of her at gizmo fairs, plaques of her stats in Swellview, etc, and on THE SAME WALL, her with her purple hair and the mask that covered the bottom half of her face, many, MANY shots of her and stories about the mysterious new three Defenders who appeared in Dystopia and began vigilante justice. “That dude knows who you are, Char,” Henry said, worried.

Stressed out, she made a whole account and sent a private message, “So, I saw on your wall that you have the Dystopian Defenders. That’s cool. I like them.”

He almost immediately answered, because he was simply at home, and he was interested in fanboying any chance that he got. “Not so much interested in the Defenders as The Damsel.She’s currently my muse.”

She replied too quickly, “She prefers to be called Dystress.” The she winced and wished she could take it back. How would someone know that? Maybe another hardcore fan? There were a lot of clips of her online...

Well, that had done it. Because, now this complete stranger seemed to be trying to suggest to Max that THEY knew his favorite underground vigilante better than HE did, and before he decimated them, he was curious who he was about to destroy. “Is that something she told you?”

“I’ve heard it around Dystopia...”

He kept up the conversation long enough to trace her IP address and phishing her account. He almost fell out of his chair.“Are you Charlotte Page???”

“WHAT?” She screeched out loud, then typed, “Is that the other Black woman on your wall? You know… People are gonna think that you’re obsessive… or have a fetish... or something unbecoming.”

“I’m a fan. I didn’t mean to alarm you… So… WAIT… You’re Charlotte Page AND you are a Dystress fan AND you’ve seen my series??? This is perfect! This is like a DREAM for me! Or… is this like one of those things where you contact me and tell me that it’s creepy that I have your stuff on my wall? Because, honestly, that’s fair. It’s just… I looked up some of your work and you were super brilliant, but we’d met previously under not so great circumstances, so I didn’t want to be that guy and make it weird, but this is just how I’ve decorated my workspace. I just admire your work, a lot.”

Charlotte had watched --she didn’t know how many of this dude’s invention videos -- Every time she saw his face, a glimmer of a thought that he looked familiar passed through her mind, but his face wasn’t on screen most of the time. The focus would be on his hands and his inventions, so she didn’t notice his face too much. The way that the human brain works, she simply put it out of focus and subconsciously presumed she’d seen his face there, in the videos.

But, now that he said it, she gasped again. Realizing the familiarity, she dropped a phone number. She did NOT want to continue this conversation on the same device he had just hacked, and she had a burner phone on her.

“Hello?” She said. It took him only long enough to pick up his phone and dial while looking at the computer for him to call her.

“Is this real???” He asked. “Are you honestly Charlotte Page?” Before she could even answer, he continued, “I am absolutely freaking out!” 

It was a far cry different from the first time they crossed paths, the time that she had remembered only after he made it known that they had before. When he was a little villain-to-be. She hadn’t gotten a very good look at him, but her eyes had at least passed over his face a little, years before.“What do you want?” She asked, through her teeth. “To expose me?” 

“Expose?” He gasped and lowered his voice, but heightened his excitement, “Are you some kind of criminal mastermind, because I can totally dig that.”

“I’m…” She looked at the muted video where she had been studying his wall and she realized something. There weren’t photos of each, next to each other. There were no lines, or notes or string... He didn’t know that those were the same people. He didn’t know that she was the Damsel of Distress. He really was... just a fan of both of them. Maybe it was subconscious on his part, but she didn’t feel like he was playing mind games or anything. And… he had powers, so exposing her wouldn’t be wise for him or other supers. 

“Charlotte? Are you still there? I’m not gonna expose you, if you were waiting on an answer to that. But, I’ve gotta tell you… I’m a superhero now and if we gotta cross paths while you’re in your criminal phase… I mean… It’ll be AWESOME and like hella fun… but, I’d have to take you down. Duty and all that.”

Now, she laughed. “The Dystopian cops haven’t been able to, but give it your best shot.” There was a long pause and then a longer gasp, then the exhaling and declaration, “CharlottePageisalsotheDamselandIcan’tbelieveIdidn’tnoticeitbefore!”

“I prefer Dystress. With a “Y,” like Dystopia + Mistress… The Damsel of Distress was supposed to a clever one liner and nothing more. Some overgrown goon caught me about to tamper with supplies that we needed to steal from the criminals to give to the kids in our charity, and he said something like, “Looky here, a damsel in distress,” and…”

“And you, a 4’11 (I can’t believe that I didn’t even place your identical measurements to figure this out), you touched your wrist, hulked up somehow and beat him with his own weapon, then said, “More like a Damsel OF Distress,” and it was caught on security cameras. I HAVE that footage. I’ve gotten probably every piece of footage of you that has been recorded. I am not kidding when I say to you, that I am your biggest fan.”

“You’d think that with that wall you’ve collected,” she said, her wide smile evident in her voice. She knew that the kids in Dystopia stanned Dystress. They would tag her name and image all over the place and whenever in costume, girls and women always gave her stuff, sometimes, what appeared to be their last. She would refuse it and give them whatever she had on her to spare. 

Dogfight was in essence sleepwalking through battle, so even though he could reply to people (in Spanish), they usually didn’t understand it and generally didn’t talk much to him.  

Deflector was just that, on or off the battlefield. Henry had never mastered lying, that much was sure, but found that avoiding questions because he only spoke English, or if they spoke English, simply deflecting the conversation instead of making up something worked better for his mystery and his cover than lying ever did. 

Dystress was the one who spoke with the people. She spoke their language. She spoke to them as people. All of the Defenders were heroes to the Dystopian downtrodden, but Dystress was like a motherly hero. She could be both that ferocious bear whose cubs are threatened but she generally delivered the goods while Dogfight and Deflector fought off the criminals. Her covered face and purple ombre locks were what they saw right before they had meals that weren’t drugged to kidnap them or rotten. The image that they saw whenever they got clean socks, soap and towels...

“What are you thinking about?” Max wondered, his voice now soft, having regained control of himself after this wondrous discovery.

“I’m hoping that my secret really is safe with you and I’m appreciating being noticed by someone who I didn’t have to help save, first.”

He smiled, “Of course your secret is safe with me. I admire everything you do, apparently as you and her. I’d never let myself be a threat to you.” She was smiling on the other end and he knew it, but he also knew that this was a Dystopia line and probably a burner she got from a corner shop. He needed a doorway in. He didn’t want to let her slip through his fingers. “I can probably actually help you, you know? I have a lot of resources, with T-Force. Dystopia is a red level city. Every time the Hero League has assigned someone, they either die, quit, or turn, because the crime is like a hydra. It would only take a mention that the heroes there need supplies for me to get approval to bring some.” There was another long pause and he said, “I wish I could see your face right now.”

“You can see it… As soon as we get some supplies.”

“How do I contact you? I know this is a burner you’re on.”

“Yeah, but I don’t think this is a burner you’re on and I got your number when you called. Thanks in advance… what should I call you?”

“My name is Max.”

“Thank you, Max.”

“My pleasure, Charlotte.” They both smiled and hesitantly hung up their phones. But, Charlotte was looking forward to seeing “her biggest fan” in person… ESPECIALLY if he was using his power to come with supplies. 

After a few weeks, he made good on that. She sent him a list and asked, “Is this asking too much?” He was confused at first, because it was a different phone number, but whenever he saw the list, he knew who it was from and he smiled brightly. “Not at all. I can be there by Friday. Send me coordinates to wear to meet you.”

The Defenders were there. T-Force shook hands with them and commended them on volunteering to take on Dystopia. They unloaded everything onto a trolley and Thunder Man was explaining to Deflector and Dogfight that once everything was out of the transport, his youngest could teleport them to wherever they felt safe to bring it. 

Charlotte realized that they had brought twice the amount she requested when she placed the order, and Max added, “We also took donations up from the Hero League and transferred the total into yen, in case something comes up in between now and next time that you need us.” 

“You’d do this again?” She wondered.

“For you? Are you kidding?” He laughed, but was silenced when she practically leaped up so that she could throw her arms around his neck. Nobody was paying attention, because the rest were working. He was staring into her eyes, because that was all he could see, and it definitely was enough for him to recognize them from footage of her Spelling Bees and stuff, but, he wondered, “Could I see...” he didn’t get a chance to finish the question and she pulled down her mask, stuck her tongue out and smiled. “I’d do this however many times you need,” he finished.

Since then, they’d been gravy. Chase took much longer to warm up to her like that, and even when he had, his gushing in her presence, was generally due to some exciting news, findings, work, etc. He hadn’t gushed over her like that, and Max did not mind doing so, at all. Really, the fact that she was always comparing the two in her mind was how she came up with this idea to… well… to ask them to come on an adventure with her towards saving the world. 

She knew that she could tell Max to do anything and he would say yes and figure out how. Chase would WANT to say yes, but have some questions and need some reasonable answers. He would ultimately say yes, whether or not she was able to provide them, but he would be out of his comfort zone without a fully detailed, full transparency blueprint and trajectory. But, he would say yes no matter what she gave him because, if she knew one thing about both these people, it was that they both trusted, respected, and she hoped, loved her, and they listened to her for these reasons. SO, she would always try to reciprocate it. That was something that she knew that they didn’t always get. Max from knowing him and his family for several years and Chase from mostly Douglass and Leo’s stories. Chase only ever seemed to talk about his attributes and advantages. He never complained about the things that she’d heard about his life. Or maybe, he just didn’t trust her that much yet. 

She opened a GC with the three of them and asked them when they could all meet sometime in the near future. Max was getting ready for a furlough and Chase was finalizing another bionic mission team for field work. She was getting ready to take a hiatus on degree work for the first time in 8 years and get settled into her castle that it took 5 years to have built. For reference, it took longer to build her castle than it did to rebuild Dystopia itself, but of course, one of these things she was paying for and the other had been greenlit by a billionaire.

Eventually, the three found where they could make the meet happen and she could hardly wait to share her ideas with them and also just spend time with both of them, instead of having to always divide herself.

.

Max was visiting, spending his furlough in the castle and Chase was there “on business,” because Mr. Davenport literally never allotted vacations for him, so Charlotte told a half truth about requiring him at her place for a few days for a special project and since they scheduled it after the formation of the most recent bionic field team, Donald approved the request, but reminded him that he would still be on call, if needed.

“Firstly, I need to apologize to you both for the short notice, but whenever I realized that you finally both were free at the same time, I made sure that we could all get together! I’ve… introduced you two before, right?’

Chase raised an eyebrow and studied Max. She had never introduced them, but she talked about Max to him a lot, and pretty fondly from how he recalled. “I’ve never seen this man before in my life,” Chase said. It was partially true. He had not met him face to face or even crossed him in passing. They were once in Dystopia at the same time, but although she planned to introduce them, both had avoided allowing it to happen.

Max said, “That’s your boss’ little kid, right?” Max knew exactly who Chase was. He had read about him, seen his work, talked to Charlotte NUMEROUS times about his ideas, and even was impressed by him, sometimes, But he also knew that there was no way that this dude didn’t know who he was. Therefore, two could play that game. “The one that doesn’t really fight much,” he added for good measure. Chase narrowed his eyes. He fought all of the time, but people often reduced his efforts because he didn’t have feats like the members on his team. He had better feats…

“Chase Davenport!” Charlotte corrected Max and cut him off at the same time, seeing it might turn into a pissing contest if she didn’t rein it in, “Mission Leader of the world’s first bionic mission team, Mentor at the Davenport Bionic Academy, he creates most of the bionic teams that you see on the news during missions!” She proudly announced.

Chase blushed and shuffled his feet bashfully, then said, more confidently, to Max, “I do more than that, actually…”

“Cool,” Max said and made a little sound with his mouth, to which two puppies came trotting into the foyer to him. “Hey, Buddies!” He cheered and began to love talk to the brown puppies with black ears. 

Chase wondered, “Oh, you have pets?”

Max collected both puppies into his arms and stood, “Have you not been invited here, yet?” He asked, meaning for it to sting.

Charlotte interjected, “Chase is usually too tied up in missions for social visits, so this is his first time being able to stop by and his first time seeing them.”

“They’re her kids,” Max said.

Chase cleared his throat and wondered, “I’m sorry, what?”

“These are the Swagger twins,” Charlotte clarified.

Chase let out a sigh of relief, then immediately engaged with the puppies, while Max grimaced, still holding both. “They should be about two years old, shouldn’t they? Why are they puppies and not full grown dogs? Also, why are they dogs?” And both pups became toddlers in Max’s arms, causing Chase to flinch a moment, but he still petted both their heads. 

“They have shapeshifting bionics with identical coding,” Charlotte said. “Jack had very specific speculations for them. He wanted them to be male presenting, have certain traits from himself and certain ones from Cheyenne, and identical bionics that were allotted for them to transform into dogs. They are currently puppies because they’re too young to realize that a two year old dog would be full grown and probably too small to do it, if they knew it.”

“Why does Jack Swagger want his kids to be able to turn into dogs?” Chase asked, very confused.

Max grumbled, “Because celebrities are weird and gross!”

Charlotte laughed and said, “Jack’s fiancee is Max’s former celebrity crush. He’s been moody since the engagement,” she laughed. “I, on the other hand am DELIGHTED that celebrities are weird and gross. Jack has funded all of my private research on genomic architecture JUST so he can both have perfect babies with his future wife AND also have dogs.”

“Whatever happened to good old fashioned going to a third world country and buying a desperate mother’s kid from her because they’re both starving?” Max asked and scoffed.

Chase, ignoring the rhetorical question, asked, “Why do you have his two year olds at your castle?”

Charlotte shook her head and said, “Oh, these boys aren’t going to go to him. He’s not going to actually collect until I get the formula for the perfect sons who shift into the perfect dogs, with the perfect model bionic chips, and I’m going to take that to create the embryos for their surrogate.” She forced a smile and her eye was twitching, but it was extremely lucrative, if not incredibly privileged and highkey eugenics.

“Weird and gross,” Max repeated.

“Well,” Chase ignored Max again, “Where are they going to go?” He wondered, concerned about the Swagger twins. 

Charlotte laughed and said, “Budding Flowers,” like it was obvious.

“That orphanage?” He asked, a little bit horrified.

“It’s really more like a boarding school,” she told him. “And shelter for orphans. People aren’t exactly adopting them.”

“But… these boys are bionic. Aren’t the kids there all… normal?” Chase wondered.

She pointed to him and said, “You are absolutely right! We need a bionics specific orphanage/education center. I propose either in Dystopia or Centium City.”

“Why not on the island?”

“Are you kidding? You think she’s gonna hand her babies over to Davenport after how he raised you?” Max asked. 

“Max!” Charlotte hissed and held her hands out like wtf. Chase was definitely a little bothered. Charlotte tried to explain, “Excuse him for that. Sometimes Dougie complains about The Dom whenever we’re hanging but I don’t know WHY Max would bring any of that up!” She threw Max a look. Max looked unbothered.

Chase squinted, “He… knows my Uncle Douglas?”

“He’s your dad, Dude,” Max said.

“Douglas just TELLS people these things???” Chase said, highly upset, now.

“No. It’s mostly been said in what was supposed to be confidence. With the two of them both being on the board of the Max O. Thunderman Rehabilitation & Reformation Metropolis.”

“I like to call it the Maxtropolis,” Max said, smirking with his mouth and his eyebrows.

“And everyone hates when you do,” she teased. “They’ve got stuff in common.”

“You… wait… Your friend Max is ON the board at that place?”

“It’s literally named after me,” Max said.

“Yes, I realized that, but I thought it was because you were a donor or something. Douglas said that board is composed entirely of villains!” Chase said, now on alert.

“Reformed villains,” Charlotte corrected. “Like Douglas, and like Max.”

Chase ground his teeth and stared at Max. He didn’t fully always trust Douglas, at times. He certainly wasn’t ready to trust this very shifty character, so close to Charlotte AND with a villainous past? He REALLY needed to start paying more attention to others, even those that he was writing off. Now, he would have to research and review everyone that came into contact with Charlotte. How many other dangerous possible traitors did she trust in her midst? Charlotte and Max were staring at him and he realized that the puppies were too. Also, that the kids were puppies again. 

Charlotte offered, “Let’s go settle into the lounge and sit down.” She opened her hand to let Chase see were the lounge was and she caught Max’s hand and whispered as low as she could, “Why are you antagonizing him?”

“I’m not. I just don’t like him.”

“You haven’t even given him a chance!”

“I did whenever I came in and he started it. “I’ve never seen this man before in my life? You and I both know that waif has seen me before.” She covered her forehead with her fingers and lowered her face at the insult. “Furthermore, I don’t like his sanctimonious song and dance, just because he’s the poster boy for heroes, a position that he has only been granted because bionics in the past few years that they’ve been accepted have taken credit for every superhero’s victories and act like they’re doing us a favor by doing small percentages of the work and capitalizing on all of the victories!” He folded his arms and Chase turned around and looked at them. Max glared at him.

Charlotte noted still whispering, “He has super hearing. I think he’s heard us whispering.” 

“I did,” Chase said.

Max shrugged his shoulders, “Where was the lie? Bionics are just non-supes with technology. You’re only special because a madman put technology into you when you were too young to consent.” Charlotte covered her lips with her fingers this time and lowered her face again. 

“You obviously know enough about me to continue to personally attack me because of your perception of my position. If that makes you feel better, do it,” Chase said. What wasn’t about to happen was him losing his cool in front of Charlotte, or worst, inside of Charlotte’s home.

She shook her head, “I thought that the two of you would get along. There’s so much greatness inside of both of you, that I see, I guess I presumed that you would see that in each other. I had no idea that there was some kind of superhero vs bionics bad blood in you two.”

“Seriously? Because, I’ve heard that your friend here is pretty anti superheroes. Besides the members of his team, who he’s been openly negative towards (we talk, Bionic Boy), and the only super that you’ve really fully accepted was your sister, after she siphoned a little from Skylar Storm. You had supers right in front of your face, proof of our existence and you berated them and talked trash on them. At least that’s how Sky would tell it.”

“You… know Skylar too? Technically… she’s not a super. She’s an alien. All of her people are like that.”

“Wow. So not the point,” Charlotte said. “Are you actually anti-supers?”

“No! I may have said some of what he’s gossiping about, but I was younger at the time he’s speaking about, probably not much older than he was when he was aspiring to be a super villain.”

“So, NOW you know who I am?”

“I researched the information while the two of you were whisper arguing!” Chase said.

“You knew who the fuck I was when you walked into this castle, Boy! You, the smartest man in the world, who has been betrayed and bamboozled multiple times didn’t do a background search on someone who was going to be staying in the home of the woman you love and meeting up with you for possible business? I’m not the smartest man, but I’m not a dumbass, either. You absolutely looked into me, just like I’ve been looking into you from the first time she mentioned your name. Maybe you could get a fast one on the simpletons you’re usually surrounded by, but Char and I? We're in the genius leagues.” 

Chase was breathing hard and eyeballing Max, looking a bit menacing and sort of hovering over him. Chase scanned him over and Charlotte stepped between the two of them, into Chase’s line of sight. He seemed to calm down and she was grateful, because he’d looked pissed and she heard that could make things get really ugly. “I heard your response, Chase and it’s valid. You were younger and didn’t subscribe to the value of superheroes. Max was young and didn’t either! Yayyy! Similarities…” She looked at both of them. They both folded their arms and scoffed, then both groaned because they’d had the same reactions. Getting them on the same page might be a hard sell. But, she had a few days. “Let me show you your quarters, and maybe everyone can have a drink and kinda…” her shoulders slumped and she sighed, unsure of what words to use.

Henry and Jasper had been friends when she met them. Douglas and Schwoz hit it off right away. These two… SHOULD have too. But, they were both extremely pissed and she felt like she’d missed something that she should have considered before bringing them together like this. That argument proved that she missed several things. She was so in love with the idea of them being science bros, she didn’t think about Chase’s trust issues and how they might affect his view of Max. She didn’t think about Douglas telling Max things that she didn’t even know about, like Chase having a past with superhero hate, or maybe just a little bigotry, but, still… She was supposed to be smarter than that. She had been judging both of them with her heart for so long… it just seemed natural that anybody else, especially one another, would adore them too.

“Charlotte, are you okay?” They both asked her in unison. She looked up and both of them looked concerned and a little guilty. They were most likely going to at least squash it for tonight, for her benefit. 

“I’m sorry for not doing MY due diligence. I just think, if you two could get past it all, you’d understand why both of you are here with me as I embark on a new chapter. You two were my first choice and it was an equal choice. It wasn’t one over the other, it was… I know that you both bring what I want and need to the table. I want it to be a table of camaraderie.” The men looked at each other with a raised eyebrow and flared nostrils. 

“It’s fine,” they both lied. At least she knew that they’d try.

[keelywolfe]

FIC: Like the Weather (pre-spicyhoney)

Summary: Snowdin is bitterly cold, no matter what universe you're in and Edge should know when to come in from the cold.

Notes: I'm trying to use NaNo this year as an inspiration to catch up on my WIP's, but I had the urge for something melancholy today.

Pre-spicyhoney and I don't usually write in this tense, so forgive me my mistakes.

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Read it on AO3

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Read it here!

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It’s chillingly cold.

It’s always cold in Snowdin, every version of it, and Edge is well accustomed to it by now. He’s spent years spent walking through the messy drifts of snow in the woods that occasionally rises as high as his hips, almost overtop his much-shorter brother’s head.

In his version of Snowdin there is also a chance at meeting LV Hunters in those darkened woods, though these days they keep a wary distance from him and Sans, familiar with the price that others have paid in dust for trying their hand.

That’s less of a concern in this Snowdin.

Here, the lights that surround Muffet’s front windows are all lit and blinking, the window itself airy and unbarred. The alleyway between the hotel and the shop only houses neatly-filled trash bins and there is no graffiti filled with sneers against Asgore and the Guard.

Walking to Muffet’s involves nothing more concerning than a stroll up the street and the glances Edge gets when he goes in are more curious than fearful. Muffet packs up his order quickly and efficiently, even setting the lidded coffee cups in a small wire carrier that she doesn’t even admonish him to return, the expectation that Blue or Rus will unspoken. She accepts his G without biting it to test it authenticity, drops the coin into the register with a cheery clang and waves him out the door.

He steps back outside into a blast of icy wind, strong enough to cut straight through his uniform. The cold is less of a concern for him, or any skeleton, really, but he hardly enjoys it and Edge hurries back to the Swap brothers’ home, packages in hand.

There’s a tiny, cherry red glow cutting through the darkness, and Edge follows it as much as the blinking Gyftmas lights on the house’s eaves.

Rus is sitting on the porch steps, directly in the line of that chilling wind like the fool he is. It’s wretchedly cold, more so than normal, there must be a storm blowing in, and still Rus chooses to sit in it to get his nicotine fix. He coughs, the cloudy puffs as much from the cold as the cigarette.

Rus has been coughing since they all arrived, recovering from a cold, Blue told them all, and there’s a certain dullness to his eye lights, an unhealthy flush to his cheekbones.

He shouldn’t be outside.

He looks miserable, hunching as if he could possibly burrow further into his oversized sweatshirt. The hood is up, but Edge can’t imagine it provides much in the way of warmth. It’s rather a surprise that Blue let Rus out at all, but despite his lazy nature, Rus has shown a streak of stubbornness that Edge recognizes in himself. It shouldn’t be charming.

It certainly isn’t now, seeing how exhausted Rus looks. He doesn’t even offer a defiant glare in Edge’s direction, only scoots down to the end of the step to give Edge enough room to pass by.

His cigarette is mostly burnt out and he drops it into the snow before lighting another.

Instead of brushing past him, Edge sits next to him. He ignores Rus’s surprise, selecting one of the cups from the wire rack, handing it over. Rus accepts it, winding his fingers around it immediately.

Edge does the same, somewhat less desperately. His own hands are protected from the blowing wind by gloves whereas Rus’s are foolishly bare. The heat from the cup burns through even that layer, warming him.

“thanks,” Rus said. His voice is hoarse, uncertain.

Edge only nods. He rummages through the bag again and pulls out a folded square of wax paper, opening it to reveal a selection of tiny pastries. Each one is topped with crumbling icing and he offers the paper to Rus who, after a pause, selects one, eating it instead of smoking the cigarette burning down between his fingers.

The pastry crumbles beneath Edge’s teeth, honeyed-sweet, and when he sips from his cup, the hot cocoa is rich, heavy with cream. The heat spreads out from within, his magic carrying it to his limbs.

Despite drinking his own cocoa, Rus still looks terribly cold. His tongue is bright orange, the brightest thing in sight as he licks the sugary remnants from his fingertips and Edge finds himself watching, wondering distantly what sort of fool it makes him, that he knows very well when to come out from the cold and yet, here he sits.

He isn’t sure why.

He and Rus don’t get on well, never have, Rus is obnoxious and lazy, he offers terrible puns with enthusiasm and spits verbal arrows back at Edge effortlessly, meeting any insult with one of his own. He’s an irritant and a fool, barely recovering from being ill and sitting out in the snow.

He’s lovely and Edge is as much a fool as he is.

There’s nothing he can offer Rus that he doesn’t already have except himself, and Rus hardly needs another Papyrus when he is one. He doesn’t need a thing from Edge, not his protection nor his affection, living here in this safe little world where his worst problem is lingering sickness and the falling snow.

He can hear the rattle of bones as Rus shivers, still holding his empty cup.

Wordlessly, Edge unwinds the scarf from around his neck. It was a gift from Sans, his Sans, years ago when he was accepted into the guard. His brother had given it to him with little more than a careless grunt and Edge couldn’t say if the gift was bought or stolen. He wore it nearly every day.

Today, he wraps it around Rus’s neck, ignores his startled flinch. Tucks it in closely, still warm from his own body heat. He doesn’t try to parse the emotions that flutter over Rus’s face, a kaleidoscope that ends with a hoarse, “won’t you be cold?”

Of course he will, it’s freezing. “I’m fine.”

They don’t sit outside much longer. Only a few moments before Rus puts out his cigarette and Edge gathers up the bag with the pastries. The rest of the drinks will be closer to lukewarm than hot when they go inside.

Edge doesn’t ask for his scarf back when they do, ignores the weight of his brother’s gaze, and Rus wears it the rest of the night. Halfway through the movie, his head sinks back to rest on the sofa cushions, his sockets closed and his breathing raspy.

Blue is the one who carefully spreads a blanket over Rus, his expression hiding none of his concern and affection. He smooths Edge’s scarf, tucking it closer around his brother’s neck and murmurs low to Edge, “I’ll see that you get it back.”

Edge nods curtly and focuses on the television screen. He doesn’t allow his gaze to stray to Rus sleeping next to him, wearing his scarf around his throat like a collar.

It’s colder when they leave that night, the chill biting into his bared vertebrae.

Edge ignores it and heads for home.

-finis-

[bloodfcst-a]

@rexcrystallis​ said: "Where are we going again?" Noct asks her as they meet up at a park not far from his public high school. He shifts his backpack to his lap. He'd gotten out an hour early, but that's because he willfully cut classes. Yuffie of course, didn't have to know.

School’s such a weird concept for her. Even though she’s been offered the opportunity to attend school alongside Noct, she chooses not to. It’s nice enough to see him around town, to know that he’s not too far. And when she does give him a text, he’s rather responsive. Is it because he knows she’ll whine if he doesn’t agree? Or is it the promise of snacks that pulls him over?

Hm. Regardless of what his motivations are, she did snag his attention and she’s to take advantage of that. While he’s been ~ notably ~ ‘ studying ’ hard, she’s been free to navigate. And by free, that means as long as no one sees her. But that’s been the focus of her trainings with Gladio! Everyone’s got something they’re good at, and she’s more nimble than most, able to scout out safe zones and enemy troops much earlier than anyone here in Insomnia can. They’re much more the.... react to the enemy one they’ve arrived type. Whereas having been under occupation for so long, those in Accordo are all about predicting and planning and scheming for what to do when there is an opening, and looking for said openings to exploit.

It helps too that Yufi’s a little versed in the ways of the world... or really, waves. She knows that the wind’s directions, the height and depth of the tides, the length of the ground’s rumbles, they all mean something. And it’s been her job to determine how that translates into understanding the terrain, and to what the gods are feeling. She can’t speak to them, not in the same direct manner as the Oracle, but one can comprehend the flow of energy if one’s not trying to exploit it all the time.

Those are the studies she likes. Speaking of which, Ignis will probably find her to ask her why she’s not gone to her arithmetic lesson... but he’ll first and foremost be looking for Noctis, who is also not available.... They’re so sneaky, the two of them together. It’s a miracle the citadel still allows them to hang out, given all the times they’ve been caught in places they shouldn’t be.

Which brings them to today.  ❝ Y’know how they open some of the rooftops when there’s a party coming up? Well, I saw the caterers and the dancers in the hallway today, meaning there’ll be a party tonight! Probably celebrating some family’s ascension or something... who cares, really.... everyone’s a duke here, it seems. ❞  Her extended relatives, too. Which, she should really question how she has family in both Accordo and Insomnia, but that’s for another time.  ❝ But I was thinking.... why don’t we climb up to one? The city’s so pretty from high up there... and I feel we’ll be caught if we go to our usual spots. Aren’t you here... kinda early? Did you miss me that much? ❞