#the problem is i don't have a grown up cat so i have to just chase rats | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

eevees-hobbies · 11 months ago

Text

Don't Threaten Me With a Good Time!

This is a response to this anon request: Hii can i request wind breaker boys : bofurin and shishitoren with a reader that love to flirt and hard to flustered although they tried to do it back? Thank you

Author’s Note: Thank you, Anon, for being my first Wind Breaker request! I feel like we were on the same wavelength because I was planning on doing a flirt fic/headcanon, but you beat me to it! Unshy and bold is how I like to write my readers, too!

Content Warning: Fem!Reader x Characters. Not smut but highly suggestive in some parts. Use of the word slut in the beginning background piece, a brief examination of the word and scenarios in which it’s weaponized. If you’re not into that, feel free to skip that part. But I’ve seen what some of you all are into and seen some of those reblogs—you know who you are, so spare me. You’re also a major flirt. Like, you’re at a 10 on the flirt scale. Go, you! Nothing too explicit, but here’s what we’re working with: mention of panties in Sakura’s. Kaji needs to learn to keep items inside of his mouth…unless? Suo intends to punish you so pick a god and pray. Hiragi needs you to chill out…but say more, please. Umemiya is too shy to ask you to call him Daddy (please call him Daddy). Togame tells you what you’ll be sitting on by the end of the night (also mention of alcohol in his). Nirei is a cute little bean <3. Minors Don’t Interact.

As always, I appreciate comments, reblogs, and likes. Requests are as open as my legs are for Haruka Sakura’s dick.

Word Count: 2.8K

Dividers by Saradika. Story banner by me.

Background: How You Got Here

You’ve always hated the word ‘slut’

It’s not that you wouldn’t personally consider yourself one. Depending on your ideologies, reclaiming the word can feel liberating and you find that to be true for yourself.

You consider yourself to be naturally flirty, sexy, bold, and charismatic. You can also be a bit of a tease and have slut-like-tendancies in the bedroom, so, sure, a slut. And for the right person or people, if you’re feelin’ nasty, you’re willing to be whatever they want you to be.

You’ve just grown to hate the word because slut is often used to mischaracterize a woman that men often can’t understand.

They can’t, or choose not to, understand a woman who is vocal about who she wants and how she wants it.

They call women sluts who do the chasing.

They call women sluts who fuck on the first date.

They call women sluts who don’t fuck on the first date.

The word slut has lost all meaning.

Patriarchy issues aside, this wouldn’t be a problem if you didn’t also have a mouth on you. So when some low-life-loser cat calls you from across the street, asking if you got a man and then calling you a slut because you chose not to answer in front of his five loser friends, you turn around and yell, “Sorry, buddy! Experiencing disappointing sexual experiences isn’t on my bingo card for tonight!”

“What the FUCK did you just say to me?”

And contrary to what some may say, you aren’t fucking stupid. You know what happens to women when a man hates them and decides that you’re the object of their rage.

So, you often find yourself running in situations like this. Running until your lungs are about to explode and the only thing keeping you going is adrenaline and the fear that that word—and your mouth—might get you snuffed out.

You’re looking over your shoulder as your assailants close the distance, painfully aware that this can’t go on for too much longer when you collide with someone’s chest. Strong hands grip your arms, anchoring you in place.

You look up, expecting to see one of the men from the group but you’re instead taken aback by the stranger in front of you. He seems like the kind of boy you’d let call you a slut—-his close-mouthed smile disarms you, and even though it doesn’t reach his eyes, you’re almost certain he’s someone you can trust. You don’t have too many options right now, anyway!

His tassel earrings swing as he raises his head from looking down at you, and his eyes follow the sound of running feet emerging from the alley.

“Oh? You look like you could use some help. Stand over there for me?” He tilts his head when asking you the question, but part of you feels like he’s not really asking, so you nod and watch with bated breath as the young man methodically mows down every one of the men.

Afterward, he turns to you, pristine and perfect, “I can’t let you walk home alone after that.”

“Sure,” you say, taking his outstretched hand. What’s your name? I have to know the name of the person who just saved me.”

“Oh, I guess that’s a fair point. My name is Hayato Suo. It’s nice to meet you despite the circumstances.”

It’s not long after that event that you fall into the protection of the Bofurin & Shishitoren men; your natural charisma quickly gets you in their good graces and earns you a special spot among their ranks. You give off mascot vibes—if mascots were cute and didn’t have gigantic, scary bodies!

Hanging out with them means being yourself without experiencing judgment or retribution. Your laid-back persona and flirting are met with laughs, blushes, and even sometimes flirtation in return. You’ve never felt more at home than with them.

Haruka Sakura

Flirting with Haruka Sakura is like flirting with a brick wall; either he notices and chooses to ignore the situation as his face turns a crimson red, or he’ll yell at you for being a pervert in public. And both of those reactions are equally cute, so when one day you’re sitting at a booth at Cafe Pothos—-with Sakura, Suo & Nirei—-you decide that this is the perfect environment to get him riled up.

You gently knock your shoe against Sakura’s, which earns you an eyebrow twitch as he continues to shovel food into his mouth. Oblivious as always.

You do it again to prove that it wasn’t an accidental nudge. Sakura’s eyes shoot up to yours, frantic because this is something you would do. His eyes are met with your innocent smile and subtle shoulder shrug.

As you all continue eating (excluding Suo, who enjoys a cup of tea), you gradually move your foot up his leg until it rests between his thighs. Sakura is trembling like a leaf, eyes darting between the faces of your friends, who could very well notice that you’re trying to get him to play footsie under the table. What if they notice?

The meal concludes; Suo and Nirei exit the restaurant, and you and Sakura linger for a bit. Part of you hopes that he’ll call out your behavior, but he’s doing his best eye-avoidant routine. As you rise to leave, Sakura stops you, grabbing you by the hem of your sleeve and pushing you into the last booth at the back of the restaurant, where the line of sight is blocked.

Sakura climbs on top of you, your bodies crammed into the leather booths in a way that feels deliciously intimate. His hands are holding your arms at your sides, and his knee settles in between your thighs—and you are now more than ever painfully aware of how high your skirt has bunched up as his knee is dangerously close to brushing up against the seat of your panties.

“Y-you can’t control yourself in public, can you!?” Sakura practically spits out. He’d sound angry to anyone else, but that’s not what you see in his eyes.

You look up at him, mesmerized by his vulnerability and the proximity of his well-placed knee. "Do you want me to stop, Haruka?”

He again avoids eye contact with you, but the way he bites his lip gives him away, “No, I-i didn’t say that.”

Akihiko Nirei

“Have you added anyone else to that book of yours, Nirei?”

Nirei beams at you. You’re one of the few people who takes an interest in the compendium of facts and stats he’s collected about the others. He flips through the pages and starts pointing out information he’s added since you’ve last spoken.

You nod along, taking a genuine interest in what he says; you barely notice your hand moving up to brush away a strand of hair that had fallen out of place. His cheeks tinge pink, and he stutters as he continues to read to you.

After he’s done hyper-fixating, a comfortable silence sits between you.

“What do you have about me?” you say, leaning closer to him. You’re teasing him; you don’t exchange blows like the subjects in his journals, so there’s no practical reason for him to collect information on you. That’s what you think until he reaches into his back pocket and brandishes a small notebook with your name on the front.

“I-i uh have the basic demographics, but uh…still need the more personal things like your favorite color and food.”

“What about my bra size?”

“B-bra….” The pencil in his hand snaps, and he looks everywhere but at you. “I uh… s-sure! I’ll take that if you’d like me to!”

You laugh; you genuinely find him endearing. “I’m kidding! We haven’t even had our first date yet, Nirei!”

He looks at you, pulling out a new pencil from seemingly nowhere. “Well, once I find out what food you like, I’ll add the anniversary date of our first date here, too.”

Ren Kaji

Flirting with Kaji feels dangerous, but you do you, friend. You, as an individual, and the way compliments flow easily from your lips makes Kaji uncomfortable, and he admittedly doesn’t understand why someone as gorgeous as you gives him the time of day. It isn��t until you somehow become closer that the absence of your flirting with him sets off blaring alarm bells.

Are you ok?

Who did this to you?

Who does he have to kill?!

As you thumb through the vinyl at your local record store, you feel a bump against your shoulder. You look up and see your favorite platinum blond guard dog; his headphones are settled around his neck, heavy metal pouring from the earphones. His piercing gaze is a clear indication that you might be in trouble. Oops.

“You mad at me or somethin’?”

You raise an eyebrow at him, “Mad? Why do you think that?”

“You haven’t been pestering me lately, and it feels…odd.”

You can see him chewing on the inside of his cheek, even with the round sucker placed snugly in his mouth.

“Ohhhhhh, no, Kaji! I was giving you a break, but if you insist on flirting, how about-”

“Shut up,” he pulls the sucker out of his mouth and presses it against your lips, watching as you purse your glossed lips and kiss the candy. Neither of you breaks eye contact; an unspoken threat between you dares the other to yield first. His eyes narrow as you poke your tongue out and stroke the sides with intentional, slow licks.

“Tch!” he turns quickly, marching away from you. Despite his back being turned, you can tell by the way his arm raises that he’s now placing that saliva-soaked sucker in his mouth.

Hayato Suo

Suo might be one of two people on this list who might be a worthy opponent for you. How do you flirt with someone who is perpetually unbothered? Good question! I see your flirting as back-and-forth quips, playful jabs at one another that get increasingly sexual and oddly specific throughout the day.

If you meet up with the group and one strand of your hair is out of place, Suo chirps, “Bedhead, huh? What were YOU doing last night?”

If you see Suo break a sweat after an intense fight, “Wow, Suo! You really need to work on your stamina. I can imagine a few ways to help with that.”

Sure, it’s all in good fun, but there’s a sexual undertone to it all; between the smiles and sarcastic comments, you’re both participating in your special version of foreplay, and you have never been more turned on.

Everyone around you thinks you should get a room, and as sunset approaches, you two do exactly that.

“Ready to work on that stamina, Suo?” you chide as you push him against the wall in your apartment. You know you’ll pay for man-handling him later, but that’s part of the fun, isn’t it?

His earrings sway back and forth from the force, but he gazes down at you with smoldering ruby-toned eyes. Every smart-mouthed remark you’ve said that day replays in his head, contributing to his desire to make you atone for your brattiness.

“Yes, Y/N and I promise I won’t let you out of bed with your hair a mess like I did this morning.”

Hajime Umemiya

The complexity of Hajime Umemiya should be a case study. You’ve witnessed his laid-back nature as he jokes with friends, and you’ve seen the scary side of him that bubbles over when anyone threatens those he’s closest to.

You’re truly attracted to both sides, but when it comes to you and the way you tease him, running manicured nails through his gelled hair and scratching gently at his scalp, he’s putty in your hands.

One of your favorite ways to experience Umemiya is meeting him in his element: his garden. It allows you to bond with him, and he often shares information about his life. Somewhere, Sugishita is biting his fist.

“Big brother,” you whine as you plant okra, “am I doing this right?”

Umemiya’s eyes widen, and he looks at you across the garden. In what feels like seconds, he’s kneeling in front of you, your hands cupped in his own. “Y-you can’t call me that!”

You blink, confused, “you tell everyone to call you that.”

“I don’t want YOU to call me that.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s weird when someone you…like…calls you big brother. It’s worse than being called a friend!”

You snort, but when you meet his eyes, you quickly straighten. Oh! He’s serious!

“So, not into me calling you big brother even during our ‘private moments?’ What about ‘Daddy?’ How do you feel about that?”

He laughs loudly—not because he thinks that was especially hilarious—but because you just make him nervous.

“You can call me Hajime or…’my boyfriend?’ Yeah, let's stick with my boyfriend!”

“Not Daddy?”

“I won’t stop you! Now, how about that okra???”

Toma Hiragi

“You’re a pain in my ass.”

Hiragi’s simultaneously rubbing a knot out of his neck while chastising you. You found yourself in an all too familiar situation, running errands when a drunken man approached you and began to hurl “that word” in your direction when he didn’t find your reaction to his advances to be appropriate: same shit, different day.

As you were looking for an escape route, Hiragi rounded the corner and snatched the man by the collar—it was almost comical to see the drunkard's feet dangle feverishly off the ground. With a scowl and a threat from Hiragi, he was stumbling off.

You sigh, “I don’t mean to be a burden, Hiragi. But something on my forehead must read, ‘fuck with me’ because this is becoming a common occurrence.”

“I didn’t mean it like that,” he grumbles, “I just find myself worrying about you too much. Might give you my jacket to keep these creeps at bay.”

Before the last syllable leaves his lips, he’s stuttering and trying to walk the statement back, “I mean uh…or any Bofurin jacket! We have boxes of these somewhere! Not mine, per se.”

You smile, placing a hand on his toned bicep. “I’d love to wear my protector's jacket.”

You need not say more. He removes his oversized jacket and places it over your shoulders. The smell of him and the warmth he left behind makes your heart flutter. You give him your best grin, “you know you’re never getting this back, right?”

“See? A pain in my ass. With a mouth like that, I’m goin’ to have to teach you how to fight.”

You lean into his arm, “With a mouth like this, you might have to teach me more than how to fight.”

“Jesus.”

Jo Togame

Jo Togame is the other person on this list who’ll give you a run for your money when trying to flirt. He may seem turtle-adjacent, but his rebuttals to your flirtation attempts are quick.

You’ve been shooting Togame smoldering glances for the entirety of the night, and even though Shishitoren men surround him, he’ll catch you looking, give you a lopsided grin, and then turn his attention back to the group,

You lick your lips. The draw of his signature sweatpants, black, loose-fitting tee, and Shishitoren jacket is doing something to you.

And maybe it’s because you’re on your fifth shot of mystery concoction, and the music they’re playing at the house party makes you feel bold and think that what you’re about to do is a good idea.

With all the courage you can muster, you walk up to Togame. He tilts his head in your direction, but you can see amusement in his jade-colored eyes.

“Took you long enough. Thought you were never gonna get tired of starin’ at me.”

“Dance with me!” you yell over the music. You can feel everyone in the group sizing you up and waiting to hear how Togame responds.

He puts his beer down and takes your hand. You pull him to the center of the room, where a makeshift dance floor has been constructed. You allow the music to move you before you can talk yourself out of whatever is happening. Togame puts his hand on your waist and allows you to grind against him and to the beat.

“You like the idea of making me nervous, huh?”

You stand on the tips of your toes to get as close to his ear as possible, “You caught me! Is it working?”

He chuckles and shakes his head, “No because I know exactly how this night is going to end.”

Your heart picks up a bit as his hands slide down from your waist and rest above your ass.

“How?” You squeak.

“With you grinding just like this on my dick.”

You open your mouth to respond, but he presses his lips against yours, his kiss hot and hungry.

Your eyes flutter closed, and you agree that this night will likely end how he prophesized.

1K notes · View notes

fictionalsweethearts · 3 months ago

Text

ONE-EYED EMISSARY | SEVIKA X READER | ARCANE

Synopsis: Sevika was clear from the start; no attachments. However, you were hopelessly in love with her and believed that if you tried hard enough, you would make her give in. You didn't count on a one-eyed cat to help you with such a task.

Contains: wlw, f!reader, toxic situationship, mention of cheating, one shot, fluff, a very pathetic reader tbh, cats.

Word count: 4,198

You had grown accustomed to her intermittence. Sevika was an intermittent lover, her affection and attention were rationed, her visits were difficult to predict and impossible to ask for. It wasn't that it was up to you to demand anything from her, Sevika was clear from the beginning about her lack of interest in a relationship, and you accepted believing yourself capable of keeping up with her. But you found yourself glued to the window every night, curled up in a cold bed, expectant and impatient, wondering when she would knock on your door and demand your attention with the certainty that you would give it to her every time. Because you always do.

She liked your body, she always told you that. Sevika wasn't a bad lover, on the contrary, she made you forget about your daily sorrows as long as she was buried between your legs or her hand was around your throat, kissing your mouth without shame or limitations, reminding you that as much as you sought her passion in someone else, nothing could be compared to her scent of tobacco and her whiskey tongue. She doesn't promise you to spend the night, but she did it a few times, curling up next to you in bed and feeding a naive fantasy that you knew was hurting you. You dared to kiss her with a love that you shouldn't profess to her, only for her to whisper to you the next morning, "I have to work, go back to sleep," and then put on her poncho and leave your bed.

You had become dependent, you sought her approval, her affection, her attention. The slightest sign of certainty that you were still as important as the first time, hoping that there was no other girl to keep her busy or her bed warm. She had many, you feared, the rumors of her frequent visits to the Rupturewalk were as painful as they were true. And you cried, you cried because you were asking her for something that was not yours. She would never reciprocate.

You were falling asleep, you had grown tired of waiting and you put the sparkling wine back in the fridge and blew out the candle next to the bed, you curled up in the hope of forgetting your disappointment when you heard a knock at the door. You were embarrassed by how quickly you left the bed, stopping halfway to compose yourself before opening the door. Sevika looked at you with a raised eyebrow.

"You're up late."

"You've come late." you to retorted.

"Not my problem if you choose to wait up all night for me." she replied, taking her cigarette and flicking ashes into an empty beer bottle that was siiting on the hallway. She didn't need to ask you to let her in. You closed the door slowly, not noticing the box Sevika was carrying under her poncho.

Sevika sighed, placing the box on the coffee table and turning to look at you. She had dark circles under her eyes, you could tell they were from fatigue, but her eyes lit up as she looked at you. They traveled over your soft neck and the valleys of your shoulders, down your arms before focusing on the cleavage your silky slip dress showed.

"All dolled up for bed." she said, a hint of a smirk on her lips. "You've been waiting for me."

"Don't flatter yourself." you spat, knowing damn well that you took a long bath before bed, scrubbed your knees and armpits with soap and perfumed your neck with that chocolate scent that Sevika enjoys so much. You oiled the ends of your hair, applied chapstick to your lips and even a thin layer of blush. No one looked that pretty just for going to bed.

"I'm flattered anyway." she smirked, shortening the distance to steal a kiss from you.

She cupped your cheek and gave you a second, slow and methodical, trying to get your frown to soften into an expectant, complacent expression. Sevika hummed against your mouth, feeling your curves with her rough palm before your eyes landed on the box on the coffee table. "What's that?"

Sevika stepped back and glanced at the box. "Supply of cigarettes I picked up on the way here."

The box didn’t seem to contain any cigarettes, but over time you learned not to ask Sevika more questions than you had to. She had too many secrets to keep and they could spill out of her mouth once you two got into the sheets, so she didn’t let you pry too deeply into her affairs. She only told you a few details about the business and Silco’s affairs when she smoked a cigarette after making love to you, and most of them were pretty vague.

Sevika sat down on the couch, pulling you into her lap and placing a firm hand on your waist. Your limbs were still stiff, your discomfort still raw. Sevika had been gone for almost two weeks, giving no sign of life. Because of her line of work you believed the worst, more than once you went to the Last Drop to ask for her without success. Until one night one of the lairs pulled you aside to a corner and asked you not to show up again unless Sevika summoned you, which resulted in a drunken binge and an hour of karaoke at the club before passing out in the bathroom and being brought back home by one of Silco’s employees, probably sent by Sevika herself.

"I thought I told you not to go to the Last Drop." Sevika mentioned after placing a kiss on your neck.

"I was worried." you mumbled.

"I don't need you to worry about me. It's not your place." Her words were harsh, but her grip on you was tender.

You clenched your jaw. "You didn't show up for two weeks, no one was giving me any answers."

"And that's why you made a scene at the club and passed out in the toilet?" Sevika asked in a firm tone. "It's not up to you to know where I am or who I'm with. I thought we already talked about it."

You two talked about it from the first night you spent together. Sevika had seen you at the club, alone and half drunk, probably drowning your sorrow over some recent breakup or your chronic loneliness. The truth is that you had a few coins in your pocket and were calming your nerves before going to Rapturewalk to ask for a job as a last resort. But Sevika changed your plans with a couple of words and a drink on the house. She waited for you to sober up before making the first move and you didn't regret having invited her to your bed. Then she caressed your cheek, realizing that there was something about you that stopped her from leaving.

"We can keep seeing each other." Sevika whispered. "No attachments."

And you accepted. How foolish of you.

"I'm a busy woman and I don't always have time to tell you where I'm going or when I'm coming back. It's not your right to demand explanations from me." added Sevika, gripping your chin so you couldn't look away. "Do you know how risky your tantrum was? There are pervs in this city, murderers and rapists. Don't ever expose yourself like that again."

Sevika's grip softened, her thumb tracing circles on your shoulder.

"I'm warning you," she grumbled. "I'm a dangerous woman, and I have dangerous enemies. If they catch wind of you, they'll use you to get back at me. Don't make the mistake of being careless like that ever again."

"Yes, Sevika." you nodded, swallowing the little pride you had.

You felt the straps of your dress slide down your shoulders, the fabric pooling around your waist as Sevika kissed your neck and cupped one of your breasts in one hand. "Good, don't forget it then." she grumbled against your neck, leaving a way of kisses down your chest before taking your nipple into her mouth.

"Ah." you moaned lowly, cupping the back of her neck and knowing the small talk was over.

You cried during sex. Sevika wasn't harsh or cruel, she was so gentle that you hated her even more. You cried because you knew you couldn't kick her out of your house or your life, you cried because you missed her like you miss a lover, you cried like you were the other woman when there wasn't a formal one in Sevika's life. Yours were silent tears, almost confusing with pleasure ones after Sevika edged you until you begged for a release she denied it over and over again. But she could tell you were hurt, and all she could do was to kiss your wet cheeks and speak the truth.

"You need to stop getting so attached to me, doll." Sevika murmured in the silent room. She couldn't deny that she was a selfish woman, she took from you what she needed and never gave anything of herself in return. And she knew you needed more from her, but she just couldn’t give it to you.

"I'm sorry."

"Apologize to yourself." she stated. "You're crying, not me."

Sevika gently wiped a stray tear from your cheek. "I can't give you more than this." She said, almost in a gentle warning. "I won't. And you need to understand, or else I should stop coming."

"No." you shook your head vehemently, as the sole thought made your chest hurt. "No..."

She leaned down to kiss you, your lips slightly salty with tears but also willingly open.

You lay down on her bare chest, your feet brushing against hers, your breathing synchronized as the caresses you shared with your fingertips began slowing down while you began dozing off. You traced circles on her abdomen while she followed the lines of your stretch marks on your hip with her index finger, looking at the ceiling and questioning why she kept coming to you if she got nothing but pain out of it.

And why the hell did you keep letting her in?

The rustling of cardboard caught your attention, thinking the night breeze had knocked over the coffee cup by the window, but the meow that followed made you sit up suddenly. A high-pitched, insistent and urgent meow. "Did you hear that?" you asked, waiting for the next meow.

"Don't tell me you have a cat." she grumbled half asleep.

"I don't." you stated. Sevika yawned, watching you leave the bed and head towards the source of the sound in the living room. You thought a kitten had snuck into your apartment, you searched for it with your ears as the room was dark. The sound led you to the box on the coffee table.

Sevika’s box.

"Sev," you called. "Your cigarettes are meowing."

The aforementioned left the bed, her heavy steps reaching the living room and she turned on the lamp next to the sofa. "Cigarettes don't meow," she growled, although you didn't notice that her tone sounded more tense than usual. Sevika's expression transitioned from annoyance to irritarion as you lifted the lid of the box. Sure enough, a small, black kitten with a single eye popped its head out, wide eye looking up at you before letting out another meow.

"Alright, list-"

"You brought a cat?!" you inquired as Sevika let out a groan.

"No! I-, fuck, yeah." she tried to explain. "I meant to tell you tomorrow."

Sevika's expression hardened as if she was weighing her options in her mind, deciding how much she wanted to reveal to you. She was quiet for a moment before finally sighing and running her hand down her face.

"I found this damned thing while on my way here. It was in the alleyway, meowing and getting on my nerves and-" she paused and shook her head. "I don't know why I brought it with me."

You looked at the little one again, meowing like a complaint as he tried to climb up the box and soften you and Sevika up with his thin fur and single eye. He was succeeding.

"You rescued him." you said.

She leaned against the couch nd letting out a sigh. "It was following me down the street, meowing its little head off. I thought it was just hungry and I didn't want to listen to it whine anymore, so I carried it here."

"And what was your plan?"

"I don't have time to babysit a damn cat." Sevika said. "I figured if I brought it here, you could take care of it."

You couldn't help but chuckle bitterly. "Great. Not only the whore but the babysitter now?"

"Who said you're a whore?" retorted Sevika, leaning towards you. "As far as I can remember, you're not working at Babbette's anymore."

"Personal bedwarmer, then." you insisted.

"Stop it." she spat, as the cat demanded attention meow after meow. "I'm just asking you to keep it for tonight, while I figure out what to do. I can't carry a furball down the harbor, can I?"

You looked at the little animal and sighed, believing that Sevika was simply getting rid of it with you. ""It's just a little cat, doll. Don't act like I just dropped a whole damn child in front of you."

"Gosh, I can't believe you." Sighing heavily, you leaned down to take the kitten into your arms. Its claws tickled your skin, its smell of street and sewer didn't seem to bother you, nor did its single eye.

Sevika let out a sigh. "Thank you."

You didn't look at her, you walked towards the kitchen instead to feed the fussy little thing. You watched the kitten feed himself fervently from a bowl of boiled milk, hearing his tiny licks. Crouched in front of his dinner, the kitten looked harmless and certainly fragile.

"He's your cat," you said to Sevika. "I can take care of him, but he's yours."

"Alright... it's mine." nodded Sevika. "Don't get attached, then."

And you huffed. "I've heard that before."

The space next to your bed was empty the next morning, but you didn't allow yourself to regret it, as the kitten demanded attention as soon as he noticed you had woken up. He was a natural communicator. You soon distinguished between his hunger meows and his attention meows. He was smart and affectionate,following you around and seeking to lay on your chest or climb on your shoulder when you were working at the desk. You limited yourself to calling him 'cat' the first few days, unsure of getting attached to an animal that didn't belong to you, but whose owner was too busy to care for him or come see you. On the second day someone came to drop litter box and cat formula at your apartment, on the third a kitty bed. Sevika didn't have the time to come but she hadn't forgotten her agreement; the cat was hers.

Within a week the furball had taken over your home. He learned your routine, developed whims that you indulged without complaint, and got used to sleeping next to you in that bed you so longed to fill. "When you're bigger, Sevika won't have to come fill this space," you whispered, to which the kitten meowed.

Sevika arrived that night to your surprise. As you opened the door, the cat snuck between your legs and came out to meet her.

"Hey, little bastard." said the woman, kneeling to pet the black kitten which looked way more round compared to a week ago.

"Coming early." you teased her. "Feeling guilty?"

"I wasn't coming for the damn cat, I was coming for you."

"My bed is occupied tonight." you said, glancing at the cat on Sevika's hand.

"You let the damn cat sleep in your bed?" she groused.

"You mean your cat." you retorded. "He's a well behaved kitten, even more than you."

"Remind me to not bring any more animals to your place." she sighed, stepping into your apartment.

The kitten did not stop seeking Sevika's attention throughout the evening, meowing non-stop, climbing up her poncho and using all of its charms to get what he wanted. The kitten even climbed up the bed while you were in the middle of a session with Sevika and she almost crushed him if it weren't for the fact that you noticed its furry silhouette on the bed. The kitten finally succeeded, sleeping on Sevika's chest that night.

"You have to give him a name..." you whispered.

Sevika pursed her lips, looking down at the purring ball on her chest before petting it with her knuckles. "Let's call him Wink. After his single eye."

Wink. You smiled.

"Wink..." you repeated. "It suits him."

Wink learned his name quickly. As the days passed, he began to grow by leaps and bounds. His fine coat of fur was now thick and dark as night, his single yellow eye scanning around without problem, becoming a nocturnal hunter and the object of your anguish when you didn't see him return home until several hours later. Once he came with a small bird between his teeth, still alive, and he placed it at the foot of your bed as an offering. "I guess he loves you," Sevika murmured, looking at the dying little animal.

Wink became your roommate and the most reliable guarantee for Sevika to show up at your apartment. Her absences were getting shorter, her stays longer. She often came to see the kitten, sleep with you, and even started staying for breakfast when her work didn't prevent it. You wondered if Wink was really the reason for her presence, and that made you cling to the animal even more, achieving what you tried to do for two years.

Keeping Sevika close.

You often watched Sevika sleep, her breathing long and calm, her chest rising with each breath. Wink would often curl up between the two of you, cradled in the warmth of two women who seemed to attract each other like hymans but hurt each other like poison in small doses. Your fantasy would fade as soon as Sevika woke up and she would start thinking about you more often during work or during her gambling breaks.

Things were changing.

However, after a month you went to the Last Drop, as Sevika had forbidden you so many times. But this time the reason was valid and urgent. A guard stopped you at the entrance, you asked him anxiously to let you through, that you were looking for Sevika. Until she appeared behind the man.

"What are you doing here?" she demanded, her voice stern. "You know you're not supposed to be here."

"Wink is missing." you said. "He's been gone for three days, I've been looking for him all over the Lanes."

"The hell do you mean he's missing?" she asked, her voice betraying a hint of worry. "Have you checked all his usual spots?"

You breathed heavily, weighing the possibility that Wink was lost or something else had happened to him. Zaun was a cruel place for humans and animals alike, there was talk of markets selling dog and cat meat, of unscrupulous sellers who bought cat skins and sold them as rabbit skins. You feared the worst.

"Hey, we'll find him." she said, her voice firm yet reassuring. "Don't think the worst just yet. He'll turn up."

Sevika ordered the guard to step aside, allowing you to enter. A murmur seemed to stir at the sight of Silco's second-in-command with a girl, comforting her with more gentleness than the woman had ever shown. But one look from her had them all quieting down and going on with their business. "Sit down, doll."

She handed you a glass of sparkling water, her hand coming to rest on your shoulder as she gauged your worry. "Alright, listen to me." Sevika said. "We're gonna find that damn cat. I'm gonna call in some favors and put some eyes out there."

"What if he's dead?" you asked.

"He's not dead, doll. He's a smart bastard."

The next few hours were a dream and a nightmare all at once. For the first time you walked the streets of Zaun with Sevika at your side, clinging to her arm as you asked about a one-eyed black furball that had strayed. You hadn’t noticed Sevika’s effect on people until they came closer and seemed to brace themselves for something, backs straightening, conversations dying down, and a few nervous smiles appearing. But many turned to look at you as well, seeing the second in command with a tearful girl on her arm. A girl who didn’t look like a lady-in-waiting.

As night fell, you were tired and hopeless. Wink seemed to hide from you and Sevika was getting more and more impatient. He's a damn cat after all, why bother so much? But seeing you like that, reminder her that for you it wasn't just a cat.

"Doll, I'll take you home." she said then, stopping you. "That's enough for today, we've been searching for hours and I can't keep you company any longer."

"But…"

"I still have people searching, don't worry."

When you got home, Sevika insisted that you take a bath and have dinner. She wouldn't let you fall into a depressive episode over a case as solvable as a lost cat. If necessary, she would find another one-eyed furball and deposit it in your bed the next morning. But she couldn't keep watching you cry, she had done it before when she was the reason for your tears.

Sevika sat next to you on the bed, you were half asleep but still sniffling. The woman studied you silently, understanding that your distress was not only due to the probable death of a cat, but to what that cat meant.

"Are you sure he's just a cat?" she asked quietly. Your eyes fluttered open, her expression looking oddly gentle.

"He's your cat." you whispered.

And the reason she comes to visit you. The reason she's spent more nights with you and smiled more. The reason she stayed for breakfast and gave you gentler kisses. Wink was way more than a cat.

And Sevika reached out to stroke your cheek. "I'll find him, doll. Don't worry."

You dreamed of purrs, the smell of coffee, and an arm around your waist. You dreamed of a kiss on your temple and the certainty of an “I love you.” And you felt pathetic as soon as you woke up.

You sighed, noticing the sun streaming through the window and welcoming you to another noisy morning at the Lanes. You thought of Wink but didn’t rush to get up, the idea of him lying at the bottom of a pot, seasoned with cumin and pepper was already settling in you and you seemed to accept it. Sevika would no longer have to come again.

You stood up to pour yourself a glass of water, unaware of the lump on the couch until the lump meowed. You stopped short, rushing to scoop the furry ball into your arms and hold it against your chest. “Damn rat!” you cried. “Don’t you ever do this to me again, how dare you.”

You kissed his furry head and thanked Janna, telling yourself that you'll put a collar on your cat and close the windows of your apartment better next time. But your happiness was interrupted by Sevika entering the apartment, a black ball of fur on her hand.

And her eyes widened by finding you up and with the damn cat between your arms.

"Well I'll be damned," she muttered, her eyes flitting between you and Wink.

Your eyes widened as much as hers. "Who's that?"

"Fuck." she muttered, shifting in place somewhat sheepishly. "I thought, well… the fucker didn't show up and…"

"A substitute?" you asked.

"A supplanter." she admitted. "Only this one has two eyes."

The kittens looked at each other and Wink hissed at the newcomer, while Sevika seemed to want to hide from your gaze. “Sev…” you said.

“I’ll take it back.”

“No!” you said, taking a step. “No, it’s okay. It can stay.”

"It's just..." Sevika muttered. "I thought you'd be less sad, that's all."

The way she said it, the softness of her words, and the tangible gesture of bringing a cat home just to cheer you up tugged at your heartstrings. Gently, you reached out and touched her chin, tilting her face down towards yours. "I haven't been fair with you." she muttered.

"I've been too naive myself." you whispered.

Sevika sighed, stepping forward to place a kiss on your lips. "The cat was an excuse," she finally admitted.

"The best excuse you could come up with."

Sevika pulled you into a warm embrace and for a moment you wondered if you were still sleeping, only to realize that all of this was as true as the fact that Wink began attacking the newcomer.

"Hey, stop it!" yelled Sevika.

#arcane #arcane fanfic #league of legends #arcane s2 #arcane sevika #arcane smut #sevika arcane #sevika x reader #sevika x y/n #sevika x you #fluff #cats #more cats #situationships #toxic #this is so damn corny im sorry girls

505 notes · View notes

acidakerizo-47 · 5 days ago

Text

I guess I'm back!! (cry my hater, cry harder and louder but I don't even care and I'll never leave the IZ fandom ;] )

I was searching for a long time for any IZ fanarts where Zim and Dib are older and taller than it is in canon in their show style drawing, but everywhere almost all artists changing Dib too much or leaving Zim small as a cat, so I decided to make my own design version of them and hope I made it successfully

why does they look like that in my vision?

EXPLAINING: Firstly — we all remember that in canon Dib is a clone of Professor Membrane, SO, it will be logically that grown up Dib will be look like his dad physically, starting from his body and finishing with his face and even "cowlick" on his head. I'm not agree with Jhonen Vasquez's version of adult Dib in DWLD episode from the show bc it looks not similar to his dad — he has a small shoulders and "weakly" body structure, his cowlick bends for a several times with years of his life (his grandmother has only twice curved "cowlick" hairstyle that Professor Membrane inherited from her) and clothing style doesn't feeling like that gothic dark boi we used to see... Maybe I could to change Dib's shirt? it sounds nice, but his shirt is his style trick that even Jhonen didn't removed! Also Dib leads a physically active life: he is often outdoors, has parkour skills and he's able to withstand quite heavy physical exertion during paranormal research and fighting with Zim that saying us the fact that Dib a strong buddy with excellent physical fitness.

Secondly — standard Jhonen Vasquez's drawing style for IZ show included small shoulders for every character (for irkens only Tallests and "fat" characters has shoulders bigger than standard). Why Zim can't be tallest and why he has body structure is more miniature than Dib's? Look: all irken invaders and soldiers from the elite has a standard miniature body structure and almost all of them is not so tall bc they can't somehow, even if they could have a excellent physical fitness. Zim — is the smallest irken that has a nutritional problems (as we saw in show episodes irkens eating a very heavy and fatty foods, while Zim gets sick of almost every food and eats mostly snacks that talking a lot about his development). Still he can grow up but it will happen slowly (I think at the same level as in humans) and with height restrictions. Also I'm thinking that Zim had to adapt to human food over the years (remember when he was getting sick from cheese and burning from meat in the show, and when he was drunk from eating a lot of cheese and didn't reacted on the meat hamon strike on his face in the movie Eneter the Florpus). As a Bonus Zim never will be the Tallest just because he has extremely bad and criminal reputation, and was also publicly expelled from the empire and was made an object of ridicule.

I was thinking about it for a long time and I've got an Idea to make this reference and maybe use it for further arts, we needed to have this sort of content, I guess :>

if you want — you can use this reference with my design version for your arts, I'm absolutely don't mind about it! It would be very nice if you could mention me as the designs author, but it is not necessary.

I love you and wish you have a good day, sweetie (⁠｡⁠･⁠ω⁠･⁠｡⁠)⁠ﾉ⁠♡

#artists on tumblr #kerizoart #my art #fanart #iz fanart #iz #invader zim #art tag #zim #dib #dib membrane #concept art #ref sheet #reference #headcanon #zim is a femboi it's forever in my heart #I won't stop shipping ZADR sorry not sorry #tell me how much you hate me~

139 notes · View notes

so-writing · 24 days ago

Text

don't forget to water the plants (4) (end) - Quinn Hughes

note: I have looooved writing this and I know a happy ending was wanted so I hope I delivered (I'm shit at writing happy) let me know what you think <3

one | two | three

Leaving him was easy, easier than you actually thought, but leaving this is an entirely different thing.

This is your life and you still have to live it like normal, sans Quinn. That wouldn’t be a problem if he was a regular guy, but he isn’t. He’s the famed captain of the Vancouver Canucks and he’s fucking everywhere.

You’re going grocery shopping? Quinn’s in an advertisement for Oreos, flashing a megawatt smile at you on the end cap of the aisle while you browse.

You’re taking a walk? Canucks fans end up within earshot and they can’t stop fawning over how many minutes he plays a night and how naturally gifted he is.

You can’t even pull into a fucking parking garage without seeing his likeness plastered on the side. Getting away looks better and better everyday because Quinn’s shadow looms so large in Vancouver that you can’t escape from it.

There’s no healing from the loss of him when he’s everywhere and you just can’t fucking deal with it anymore.

So you leave, for real this time.

—

Five years later

The sound of your alarm reluctantly pulls you out of a peaceful sleep, 5:43am. It’s entirely too early to be up and moving, especially after the late night you’ve had, but you have to work and the regulars at your shop are counting on you and your staff to caffeinate them for the day.

“‘Morning Zero,” You shake off the sleepiness and sit up to pet the snoozing ball of fur curled up at the foot of your bed, “you want to come with me to the shop today?”

Zero, your cat, doesn’t indicate any interest in leaving the bed and you can’t really blame him.

Waking up super early was an entirely foreign concept before you moved to Seattle. You were used to being taken care of by someone else that took the morning shift, and sleeping late was a normal thing.

Now, you wake up when the sun is in its early stages of rising and you’ve grown to love it. It hasn’t been easy but you’ve learned to welcome change. You grab your keys and lock the door behind you as you head into the crispy Seattle morning.

It’s going to be just another normal day, probably.

“Flip the sign, I’m going to step out back for a second. Come get me if you get more than three guests, yeah?”

Ava, your opening barista opens the doors and ushers the few customers hanging out and waiting into the coffee shop you bought two years ago. You pull a double shot of espresso into a cup with a bit of oat milk and step outside with it.

Seattle has been sitting beneath Vancouver your entire life and you had never realized how truly beautiful it was. Your coffee shop sits nestled into a cozy area with a few other shops on a small block overlooking a little dog park with a small pond in the middle. It’s far removed enough from downtown to avoid the noise and chaos and the neighborhood is warm and welcoming.

Your home even has a little backyard, something you never would’ve thought you’d ever have living alone. It’s nice, it's charming.

It’s the perfect spot for your new life.

This particular morning, you’re feeling a little weird and needing more time to think and drink your coffee than you would normally. Something is off but you can’t quite place it. Whatever, it’s fine, that happens occasionally.

You’re in the middle of finishing your coffee when the back door opens and Ava bursts out of it, “holyshitquinnhughesisherehesthefuckingcapofthenucs!”

Your heart sinks. There’s no fucking way he knows you’re here, that this is your place. It has to be a coincidence. Maybe the Canucks are playing the Kraken tonight and the boys are in town early? Even if that were the case, you’re pretty far away from the arena and there’s no reason for any of the players to be this far out grabbing a morning coffee.

Quinn was never really a coffee drinker anyway, what the hell is he doing at a coffee shop?

You had no idea Ava was into hockey at all and she has no idea about your past. You intend to keep it that way.

“You left him hanging while you ran back here to tell me that? Go back and serve him,” you school your face and keep the gentle scold as lighthearted as you can manage.

You don’t get the change to see if Quinn recognizes you because you don’t dare go out front. Instead, you linger in the back by the milk refrigerators until Ava comes running back, gushing over him. After all this time, this fucking asshole still has such a hold on you that it keeps you from moving freely throughout the business you own.

Ava doesn’t object when you decide to close the shop early for the day, and neither do the rest of your staff, they’re just happy to have a surprise day off. She’s still starstruck from making a drink for and meeting Quinn Hughes that she skips happily to her car without bothering remove her milk stained apron.

“I’ll wash it at home and bring it back in the morning,” she sing-shouts out her window as she speeds off.

You, however, don’t leave as easily or as happily. Knowing he was here, in your place, after not a trace of contact in five years doesn’t sit well with you. The Canucks had a game last night and don’t have another one for two days, you googled it, there’s no reason for Quinn to be here. No reason other than the obvious one.

It had become your mission not to follow his along with his life when you moved away. You didn’t want to know how his career was going or who he was dating and anything about him, really. You needed the space, but now, with him potentially creeping back into your life, you only feel one thing.

Hurt.

It’s been five year and just thinking about him fucking hurts.

Giving Zero a quick scratch behind the ears, you don’t bother to remove your shoes before falling into bed and finally letting the tears fall. Tears you’ve been storing for half a decade and you hate every single one of them.

Eventually, the crying gives way to sleep and fall hard, dreaming about coffee and hockey and the Quinn you used to know. The sound of your phone vibrating next to you doesn’t wake up and you miss the call.

Missed Call. 6:43pm.

You’ve never been able to escape that fucking number, it’s appeared everywhere in your life for such a long time, even after you left him, but this is the first night that you’ve felt the weight of it in five years.

You miss him, who he used to be because you don’t know him now, and you hate it. You hate it because you’ve built a good thing here in Seattle and even though you're doing it alone, you’re happier than you’ve ever been.

Bringing Quinn back into your life is just going to fuck all that up. If he shows up at your shop again, you’re going to make his drink and send him on his way.

You don’t recognize the number from the missed call, but just to be safe, you block it anyway.

The bell on the front door jingles, someone has just walked in and you try not to react. It’s 3:56, four minutes until the shop closes and you’ve sent the rest of the staff home for the day, deciding to close on your own and do some deep cleaning of both the espresso machines and your thoughts.

You’re about to turn and greet the guest when they speak first, “sorry for coming in so late.”

The sound of their voice, his voice, the one you’ve reluctantly been missing, nearly sends you into a spiral.

Quinn has just walked into your coffee shop, right before it’s about to close for the day, fucking last minute ass Quinn.

You haven’t heard him speak in five years but there’s no mistaking it, he’s here.

“I’ve always hated how last minute you tend to be, now you’re affecting my business with it.”

It’s supposed to be a joke but it has apparently fallen flat because when you turn and face him, he’s as pale as a fucking ghost.

Despite his surprised expression, it’s obvious that the years have been kind to Quinn. He’s filled out and matured nicely, looking more handsome than he ever was. He looks the same, but somehow completely different and it makes your stomach flip. You keep it cool though, you won’t do this on his terms, you’ve already done plenty of that in the past.

“That was supposed to be a joke, Quinn, hi.”

He doesn’t say anything else, so you initiate whatever the fuck this is.

“What can you get you?”

“I, uh, I’m not sure, what’s good here?”

“Everything is good, what did you get yesterday?”

Quinn smiles softly for just a second before dropping back into his neutral expression and approaches the counter, “I figured you were here, I was hoping to run into you.”

“I’m always here, I own the place. What can I get you?”

“A conversation about all the things I did wrong and all the plants I didn’t water.”

Well, that’s fucking annoying. You weren’t interested in doing this years ago and you’re definitely not going to fucking do it now.

“A drink, Quinn, what can I get you to drink?”

“Right, sorry.”

“We’re about to close.”

“Sorry.”

“You already said that.”

“Sor—fuck, i mean, I don’t,” Quinn runs a hand through his annoyingly soft looking hair and you struggle to hold your resolve, “I’m completely fucking this up.”

You aren’t sure how you should respond, but the words come out before you can stop them.

“That’s what you do though, right? Isn’t it kind of your thing?”

You know you’re being mean but you can’t help it, time doesn’t erase the shit he put you through and, suddenly, you’re smelling it as fresh as the day it was dropped. You know better, but you can’t help giving into your pettiness.

“That’s fair, I’ll take an iced chai with soy.”

“We closed four minutes ago, sorry.”

The tension hangs for a few seconds before you pull the plug on your customer service face and begin making Quinn’s drink, “I’m fucking with you, just jokes. When did you become a chai guy?”

“Shortly after you left, I was sleeping on chai, fuck me for that.”

“Absolutely fuck you for that, chai is a treasure. Thanks for coming in, have a good day!”

You don’t give Quinn a chance to respond before you round the counter and shove the drink into his hands, practically pushing him out the door and locking it you.

Bantering with him is still easy, even though brief, but you know as soon as you let him back in just a little, he’ll smash through your walls and earn the chance to hurt you again.

No fucking thank you, Quinn Hughes, you don’t get to do this again.

You don’t miss the smile on his face as he turns and leaves.

You wait anxiously for him to show up the next day but he doesn’t. Two weeks pass and you start to get back to normal, slowly forgetting about the random encounter with Quinn. Maybe he got the closure he wanted, or the hint that you didn’t want to see him. Whatever the case is, you’re happy he hasn’t returned.

He doesn’t belong in this phase of your life.

Unfortunately, that’s not going to stop him from trying to get in.

The end of April brings more than a decent amount of rain and chilly spring temperatures to match. It’s a little colder than you’d like, but you’re not mad at the constant rainfall and steady business it brings in. There’s a saying about how rain brings everyone inside.

It brings them inside, into your coffee shop, and you love that for you and them alike.

When the rain brings Quinn Hughes back into your shop, you’re ready.

Ready to send him fucking packing just like you did before.

“Can I get a small black coffee and a shot of espresso, please?”

You ignore the few whispers of people further back in line, they know who he is, and turn to pour his coffee.

“Sure, here’s your coffee, espresso shot will be at the end of the counter. Have a good day.”

“Thanks.”

Quinn’s hands swallow the small cup as he makes his way toward the rest of his order. Instead of leaving, like you hoped he would, he sits down at one of the tables in the lobby and pulls out his phone.

Hours pass and you try to continue your day like normal, but Quinn hasn’t left and the longer he sits, the more anxious you get. When the day comes to an end and everyone but him has left, you spend an extra long amount of time restocking and cleaning the milk fridges.

“Quinn’s not leaving,” Ava bounces on the balls of her feet behind you, “I think he’s waiting for you.”

“Did he tell you that?”

“No, he didn’t have to.”

He left without issue the first time, why the fuck is he hanging around now?

“Well, he’s just going to have to wait, I’m busy.”

Ava’s smart, she isn’t dealing with your stalling or listening to your bullshit.

“Something tells me he’ll wait as long as you make him, boss. Maybe you should take care of that.”

You should, she’s not wrong, but it’s not that easy. Quinn isn’t just anybody, he’s someone you loved wholly and someone you thought you’d spend your life with. He’s someone special, even now, even after all this time.

“Probably, yeah, but I’m fucking scared.”

It’s the most vulnerable you’ve ever been with her, with most people actually.

“Yeah, but you’re never going to get over your fears unless you face them, right? When it comes down to it, he’s ultimately just a fucking guy. Imagine getting worked up over any other man? You wouldn’t. He’s no different, yeah?”

You could kiss Ava on the mouth, and if you could afford it, give her a million dollar raise because she’s right.

At the end of the day, he’s just a fucking guy.

So why is it so fucking hard to sit across from him a the small cafe table he perched at this morning?

“We’re closed, Quinn, you’ve got to go.”

“I will, I just want to talk for a few minutes.”

“Ok, go on then.”

He runs a hand through his hair and picks at his clothes and takes a drink from his long empty coffee cup before he finds the courage to say anything.

“I wish I’d been here to see you open this place.”

It’s not what you expected. Something like ‘I miss you’ or ‘I’m sorry’ was what you planned to hear, but Quinn continues to surprise you, even now.

“You’re happy here.”

It’s not a question, he’s also not wrong.

“Yes.”

“I can tell, even with me creeping out here in all day you’ve smiled so much, more than I remember you ever doing before.”

“This is my business and I love it. Of course I’m happy and I smile.”

Quinn hesitates for a minute before reaching into the small duffel bag he has and pulling out a small box. You know exactly what it is. Holy fuck.

“I bought this about three months before we started to really fight,” he doesn’t open the box, instead sitting it on the table in front of you.

You say nothing.

“I’m glad I didn’t give it to you. Not because I’m trying to be shitty or anything, but because I’ve never seen you this happy. Not even back then. I never knew you wanted anything like this.”

“I didn’t know either, I kind of just happened upon this shop and everything fell into place.”

“You’re right, everything did fall into place.”

Quinn doesn’t open the box, choosing instead to tuck it back into his bag. As much as you want to see the ring, it’s probably for the best you don’t.

“I would love it to show you, but it’s not going to do any good. That ring is for someone else.”

It’s a weight off your shoulders you didn’t realize you were still carrying. It’s a release from the small room that you were previously, happily living in. It’s closure you didn’t realize you needed.

“You’re right, thank you for not showing me.”

“I’d like to start somewhere else,” Quinn smiles softly and turns to grab something from the floor beside him.

You nearly shit yourself when you see what he brings to the table: a pink princess philodendron on the smaller side.

He smiles widely and you share it because you know, “this is a cutting isn’t it?”

A cutting of the plant he bought all those years ago.

“Yeah. I finally got my shit together and learned how to water plants.”

#nhl imagine #hockey imagine #quinn hughes #quinn hughes x reader #I love writing angst but sometimes you've got to eat something sweet #nhl writing

150 notes · View notes

nyonismywife · 9 months ago

Text

RANFREN HEADCANONS:

Luther:

Was researching humans when he first decided he wanted to be one. Found out they're 60% water. Is now hellbent on making sure everyone is hydrated

Only formed a family because he thought it was what humans are supposed to do

Only reason he got Randal a pet human is because he was tired of Randal terrorising his catmen and wanted to teach him some responsibility

Has been around for so long that he's had at least one cult formed around him. The cult has long since disbanded, however

Used to be ALOT more evil in his 'youth'. Even more so than Randal. A truly horrifying entity. That was a long time ago, though. He's a nice young human man now

Sometimes Randal REALLY pisses him off. Like A LOT. But Luther reminds himself that this is just 'Randal's Rebellious Phase'. (Even though Randal's been in the same age range for years)

Randal:

I don't really have any for Randal. Let me think of some

Is incredibly good at biology, sucks at the other sciences

Otaku

Can't keep friends but somehow keeps making them

These were pretty weak. Sorry bout that. Anyways..

Nyen:

Doesn't feel a shred of embarrassment or shame about existing as a cat for Luther despite being a grown man (feels no shame about being pet, purring, making biscuits etc and thinks anyone that thinks he should feel that way is a weirdo)

Knows Luther usually likes his catmen's faces smooth but sometimes neglects shaving because he likes when Luther does it for him (drawn from a canon image)

Doesn't like smoking weed and sometimes judges Nyon for it but has no problem drinking beer and smoking tobacco

Thinks he's all that

Bullies Nyon but Nyon is literally one of his only friend besides Luther

His backstory is like the most simple thing ever with no trauma or anything. He was just a regular guy that got into a car crash or something and Luther revived him

His opinions about Kurt Cobain have always been the same even before he became a catman

Harasses Nyon whenever Nyon tries to do pushups or pullups or anything resembling arm workouts because he wants to be the only pet with beefy arms (he likes when Luther compliments his muscles (drawn from canon))

Inherited parts of Luther's violence

Nyon:

Epitome of nonchalance

Seems to have been around with Luther for a WHILE as well. (Guessing because he likes reading Fyodor novels for "nostalgic reasons" and Fyodor was around in the 1800s)

His life was better after he joined Luther's presence

Probably fought in at least one war

Remembers EVERYTHING from his past life but just doesn't talk about it. If you ask, he'll give you silence and go back to whatever he was doing. The conditions for hearing his backstory are so rare. You'd need to find him at 4:23am while he's greening out in a loaf position on the ground and even then there's only a 15% chance of him telling you. If he ever did tell you how he came to be what he is, it'd be the most bizarre, otherworldly and brilliant damn story you ever heard. Then you'd wake up the next day and, strangely, you wouldn't remember any of it anymore..? Like it was a snippet of a dream

He likes Nyen's abuse if he's in the mood for it (this is actually a little canon)

Has so many connections to so many different weed dealers it's actually ridiculous.

Inherited parts of Luther's timidity (yes, Luther is indeed shown to be a bit timid at times)

..bottom.

#i need to pay more attention to randal he's literally the main character #this was so fun to write I've been thinking about these for ages #boring tagging part #luther von ivory #randals friends #ranfren #nyen #nyen and nyon #nyon #luther ranfren #nyon catman #ranfren randal #nyen catman #randal ranfren #nyen ranfren #nyon ranfren

430 notes · View notes

pinkydoggy83 · 3 months ago

Text

SPOILERS FOR THE DOGMAN BOOKS! HIGHLY ENCOURAGE READING THEM! THEY ARE SO CHARMING!

With that out of the way, I just wanna rant because I picked up the series again. I wanted to read it before watching the upcoming movie. Think of this as a Dog Man appreciation post <3

I stopped reading the series at "Lord of the Fleas" in elementary, so I started my binge read there.

I honestly wish I had never stopped reading so soon because this book is already a banger. I just love the way Petey is slowly accepting Li'l Petey as his son. Even without realizing it, he has grown so attached to his son and cares so much about him. Like, come on, that's hecken sweet.

Not only that, but I wanna mention George and Harold (I also used to read Captain Underpants back in the day). Back then I thought it was cool that it established that they were now fifth graders and were creating Dog Man as their next story after Captain Underpants. Now that I'm older, I feel this fuzzy feeling watching these goofy fifth graders try to be "mature" and in turn try to add some mature themes into Dog Man.

I find that really sweet and amazing! You really don't often see fictional authors of a story grow up like this. The authors themselves are characters. It's one of the most special things about this franchise. I really do appreciate this detail a lot more now. You get to grow up with them…or, I suppose, see them grow up. And in turn you see how the series changes!

The next book has a lot about Petey and Li'l Petey, but I want to cover this Dog Man part before talking about the cats.

Yeah, it's pretty strange to rationally realize that Dog Man is just a normal dude's body with a dog head. So in that way, Dog Man is a bit of an outcast (I can definitely use this for my own character exploration of Dog Man in a hypothetical fanfic). But the words used against Dog Man is"misfit," which I found interesting. Obviously, they are not outcasting him for his looks (that's not the main focus) but how he can't behave like he's expected to.

Dog Man isn't the most perfect hero. He can be clumsy, and his canine instincts can get in the way. It wouldn't be such a problem for him as a dog; however, he's not just a dog. He's a dog with human responsibilities. He's been given expectation ever since becoming Dog Man.

Don't get me started with the whole angst of his owner dying because that's already so much...but you have to realize that he's taking over Knight's job. Which the idea is hecken mind-boggling!

The thing that makes Dog Man overcome these problems is his golden heart. In the end, Dog Man wants to do the right thing and save the day. That's just Dog Man for ya. That's what makes him so much like a dog and a man.

I'm really overreading this all, but I love this idea for Dog Man. It's kinda hard to put it into words, but I hope this all makes sense.

OOOH BOY! This scene actually made me stop and put my phone down.

The sweet, sincere words of Li'l Petey as it sinks into Petey while Grandpa is just breaking stuff in the background. Guys. I wasn't expecting this from Dog Man. I was so shocked reading this part. Like you can see how much Petey loves Li'l Petey but has such a hard time seeing the world like his son does. Which, by the way, is literally his clone, so it's like him arguing with his inner child. That single hug speaks so many words. Petey just wants to protect him.

I love their dynamic so much. You got this old, disheveled cat who became realistic about the world in a sad way, and this young, wide-eyed, optimistic cat who has so much to learn about... but at the same time can teach so much. That's beautiful, man. That's beautiful.

Anyways, there's so much to talk about Dog Man (that's just how fantastic the books are), but I think I'll just end the post here for now. I'm still busy catching up, so maybe I'll share again. I'm just so glad I came back to this series again <3

#talk #dog man #dogman #dog man fandom #rant #rants #text post #dog man petey #lil petey #petey

151 notes · View notes

smiling-critters-movie · 23 days ago

Text

MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT: Whoa. Guess it's been a while. *Clears off dust and old hotdogs off the desk* Hey everyone! Floofychu here. First off lemme get this off my chest. *Takes cat off chest* There we go.

I wanna deeply apologize for leaving you guys in the dark involving this project. A lot of you were patiently waiting for a new update regarding this piece of fan content and I have not been clear as to why. Well as some would know or don't know, when it comes to The Smiling Critters movie, I want it to be not just the best it can be, but the best with my own vision attached to it. I made it clear that I wanted to replicate the old 80s/90s feel with this project I've been inspired by and what goes together with 80s/90s cartoon movies? No! It's the musical numbers!

A lot of cartoons and movies from those times seem to have some cheesy but fun musical numbers where the characters sing to pad out the runtime (You probably are familiar with the extended intro of the Critters song from my movie project) And thus I've decided to add musical numbers to it. Mother Mira's Lullaby is already finished (and on the channel!), the instrumentals for all the songs are ready to go thanks to some amazing artists and friends, but there was one song that held me back for MONTHS. That... was King Tyran's theme.

Yep, King Tyran's going to have his own musical number. Who doesn't love a villain song?! There was a problem tho. The voice actor for Tyran Cougar offered to mix the soundtrack and I gave him the go ahead to do so. Unfortunately he and his mixer were dealing with some IRL issues which caused a HUGE delay (Not your fault, mates!). I was wondering if I should've moved on to other things for the movie, but as time went on I got a lot more busier. Commissions to pay bills, helping my mom out and working on an Easter project that's gonna be finished soon.

So as I kept waiting for Tyran's song I would focus more on commissions as well as my own other projects but I'm now happy to announce... King Tyran's theme is finished. When will you guys hear it? Well perhaps pretty soon maybe? ;) Right now I need to finish my easter project as well as set up to pay more bills soon, but rest assure, now that Tyran's song is finally complete, the other songs will be completed on a timely manner as well! How many are left? 2 actually. One is going to be another musical number but with all the critter crew, and the other is... well I'm gonna save it when the movie's finished. ;3

I just wanna say thank you so much for your patience, love and care for this silly little project that grew in scope because of a certain direction I took it in. It was never meant to be this big, but because you guys love what I was doing with it and have grown interested in both the movie and the lore of it involving Poppy Playtime's story, I feel like I need to finish what I started. I have tons of ambition for this project thanks to you guys, and now that one of the songs is FINALLY finished, I no longer feel stagnant.

Thank you all again. God bless you all, and enjoy the time we have. ^^ Just S-M-I-L-E everyday! ~Floofychu

#poppy playtime #smiling critters #smiling critters the movie #youtube

93 notes · View notes

frotees-corner · 1 month ago

Text

Sweet Romantic Drabble

I have a bunch of scenes and introspections I want to eventually pen down for my canon SD!Rook Ceres and Lucanis, but I don't know when I'll get around to it and if I want to make a bunch of loosely connected one-shots or a whole fic out of it. I've only done half a chapter of one so far, set just after the romance lock-in, but I really like it, so I thought I'd just share it here for now (it's tooth-rotting fluff).

---

Perchance to Sleep

Their comfortable silence grew, stretching like a cat lazing in the sun. Curious, Lucanis turned around, only to realize that Rook had dozed off, slumped to the side so her head rested on the armrest of the couch. He couldn’t help the smile that bloomed over his face.

Maybe he should have been offended, or worried that she found his company tiring, but he knew all too well how often the pressures of their job and her burden of leadership kept her up at night. She needed all the rest she could get.

As an assassin, people did not usually find his presence comforting. Even before the demon moniker - much less the truth of it - he had been told that others found him unsettling, fearing both his skill with a blade and the voice that commanded him to strike.

Knowing that she trusted him - knowing exactly who and what he was - enough to sleep in his presence felt like a badge of honor.

He dried off his hands after putting the last clean dish aside before turning to walk in her direction, steps slow and measured and silent. Crouching down next to her, he allowed himself a moment to let his eyes roam over her, from the snake tattoo peeking out of her hairline down over the shallow curve of her nose to her full lips. Her hand was curled up next to her face and her legs pulled close to her body, the book she had been reading dangling precariously over the edge of the couch.

She looked so peaceful that he was loath to disturb her sleep, but if she remained like this she would not thank him in the morning, when she woke stiff and cramped. He reached out to gently tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, noting the way the corner of her mouth pulled up into a smile at his touch. Her skin was warm and soft under his calloused fingertips.

“You should sleep in your own bed, Rook,” he said quietly, a strange tightness in his chest. Maker, she was beautiful like this, flickering firelight glowing on her skin and all tension smoothed by sleep.

“Mmhh but I’m comfortable here,” she mumbled without opening her eyes.

He huffed softly. “You’re comfortable now, but you won’t be when you wake up again.”

“That’s a problem for tomorrow-Rook.”

“Come on, I’ll walk you back.”

She cracked an eye open, just slightly, and the smile playing around her lips widened.

“Only if you carry me.”

“Oh, so that’s how it is?” He smiled down at her, brows arched, before reaching out to cradle her in his arms. “Off we go then!”

She made a small sound of surprise as he lifted her, shifting to lace her arms around his neck and leaning her head against him. She was surprisingly light, for a fully grown woman. Probably something about elven bone structure, or else he’d have to make sure that she wasn’t skipping meals when she spent all day on her feet.

When he put her down on her own couch in her own room, the undersea aquarium at his back throwing a cold glow on the walls, her hand snagged in his lapel chain. He reached out to carefully untangle her hand, only to have her lace her fingers with his, holding on.

“Stay?” she asked quietly, something fragile and hopeful in her voice, and he froze.

It was not that he didn’t want to - Maker, he wanted her - but they hadn’t even kissed yet and this seemed a step too soon, too far, and she was half asleep already, and surely this wasn’t the right time …

She slowly opened her eyes to look at him, and a lopsided smile stole over her features.

“Not for sex, silly. Just for sleep.”

He felt a flush of heat flooding up his neck. Clearly, some of his turmoil must have shown on his face, and he swallowed, trying to get rid of the lump in his throat that was making it hard to breathe.

She was still looking at him with those clear eyes that seemed to peer directly into his soul, endlessly patient, ready to accept any answer he was willing to give. But he still remembered the flash of hurt in those same eyes the last time he walked away from her, and he didn’t want to cause her pain. Again.

He took a deep breath, letting it out in a rush.

“Alright. But let me grab a blanket first,” he said softly, slipping off his shoes and bending down to retrieve her blanket from under the couch.

When he turned back to her, she was watching him with such unguarded affection that it took his breath away all over again, never once looking away as he carefully lowered himself next to her, arranging the blanket over both of them. As soon as he had settled in, she snaked an arm around his back, pulling herself close to him.

“Thank you,” she whispered against his chest, and his heart skipped a beat, realizing that she had expected him to decline, to pull away again. She deserved so much better than him, but if this was what she wanted, he would do anything in his power to make her happy.

Uncertain what to do with his hands, he decided to mirror her, curling an arm around her back, his hand coming to rest by her shoulder, where his thumb proceeded to rub absent minded circles over her shirt.

She sighed happily, snuggling closer, and he thought his heart might burst as he dropped his head to hers, breathing in through her hair, letting her sweet scent wash over him.

Ginger and Oranges and Happiness, Spite purred at the back of his mind.

He had never shared a bed with anyone, not since he was very young and Illario had sometimes snuck into his room for comfort just after their parents died. This was certainly not that, but there was an undeniable undercurrent of contentment that felt familiar, a peaceful warmth enfolding him in her embrace, lulling him to sleep.

He had really only meant to rest his eyes for a moment, letting her warmth soak into his skin to let him take a piece of her with him when he returned to his own space, but he was dead to the world before he could think to rise again.

When the waking slowly crept up to him again, like a tiger circling its prey, the first sensation that really registered to him was the warmth. The pantry always maintained a cozy temperature, thanks to the fire burning in the hearth on the other side of the wall, but this was different. This was the warmth of bodies under a blanket, of skin and breath in close proximity.

The second sensation was the smell, sweet and familiar and all around him, instead of the stale, earthy scent of onions and potatoes and coffee beans.

His eyes blinked open with a start, staring at an unfamiliar ceiling. The stones over his head did not reflect the light of the many candles he kept burning in the pantry, nor the near complete darkness that greeted him when those burned out. The soft, cold glow along the ceiling belonged to the deep, to light filtering through water, and he shuddered, turning his back on the underwater tableau to his right.

This was much better.

Rook was still asleep, one hand fallen against his shoulder, slack jaw hanging open ever so slightly, entirely relaxed and entirely defenseless and entirely his in a way he could not describe. His heart felt over full, like it could burst and spill out of his chest at any moment. If time were to freeze at this very instant, he would not complain.

There was no way to judge the passage of the hours by the quality of light in here, but he felt more rested than he had in weeks, so he knew he must have slept for several hours.

So much for creeping back to his own bed in the night.

But there was no regret accompanying the thought, only a ruefull happiness at seeing her peaceful face so close to his. Without thinking, he reached out to gently run his fingers through her hair, relishing in the feel of the soft strands sliding over his skin.

When she slowly opened her eyes, he felt sorry for disturbing her rest, but only for a moment. The way her eyes lit up at finding him still beside her was worth anything.

“You’re still here,” she observed, voice laced with quiet wonder, and he knew he would never be able to sneak away again.

“I am,” he agreed softly, feeling like he could drown in her amber eyes. Maker, he wanted to kiss her. He should have kissed her a hundred times already. When he had hugged her after the devastation of MInrathous; when she kissed his cheek at Weisshaupt; when he first failed to kiss her; when she was there for him after talking to Zara Renata’s corpse; when she freed him from the prison in his mind; when he made Churros for her; …

But if he kissed her now, when he was already stretched out next to her, her body close enough that he could feel the heat off her skin through both their clothes? He didn’t know if he’d be able to stop, and he wasn’t ready for that yet.

But he had to do something.

So instead, he reached for the hand that rested against his shoulder, shaking only slightly as he laced his fingers with hers and pulled both of them to his lips, brushing a chaste kiss against her knuckles.

“Good morning.”

He watched her eyes widen and grow dark, a blush blooming in her cheeks. Then she smiled, softly at first, but with a growing edge of mischief before leaning in, and he held his breath, heart fluttering in his chest, caught between panic and excitement as she brushed her nose against his cheek - and placed a gentle kiss upon the tip of his nose.

She was definitely grinning now, eyes sparkling with mirth while he tried to control his thundering heart.

His breath escaped him in a huff, almost a chuckle, at being so thoroughly seen.

“You’re impossible,” he said, dropping his forehead to hers.

“Ah, but in a good way?”

“In the best way.”

They just kept smiling at each other for a minute, giddy with happiness, like two idiots in a pot.

“Breakfast?”

“Breakfast.”

#dragon age #dragon age the veilguard #datv #lucanis dellamorte #rookanis #lucanis x rook #dragon age fanfiction #writing wip

68 notes · View notes

whispereons · 2 years ago

Text

Oracle!Reader Part 5

Masterlist - Part 1, Part 4, Part 6

Warning, I guess? Like I said last part, my AU has death and voilence. This one also has frisky(?) moment, no full NSFW

You aren't quite sure how long you have been sitting on this bench. The cats you were watching have already grown tired and were lazing around. The smoke smell was still faintly in the air and the sky was the same blue as before.

Couldn't have been more than 10 minutes then.

You should get up and leave. But to go back to the main area is to back into the fray. And you really didn't want to do that. With a heavy heart, you got up and stretched.

A loud crash and bang from around the corner startled you. You peer curiously in the direction and a pained groan is all you can hear. You walk over and see opened crates on the floor with fireworks rolling out of them.

Carefully you step around the fireworks to get to the heart of the problem. Yoimiya was on the floor with crates scattered around and a bell near her. The usually peppy blonde was clutching her head with a pained expression.

"Did you just get hit by that bell?" You say with a smile. You struggle not to laugh as you hold your hand out to her.

"Unfortunately, I did. Ugh, that really hurts." She takes your hand and slightly jolts from the electricity that your skin brings. You notice her action but don't put much thought into it, you pull her up.

"If we don't pick up all your fireworks fast, we'll probably lose some." Yoimiya smiles brightly completely forgetting her lost battle with the bell.

"You would help me? That's great to hear, I'd be looking all over Inazuma City for them without you!"

You start picking them up with her as you leisurely talked with her. Truthfully you offered more for yourself, as selfish as it sounds you just wanted a distraction.

The nearly mind-numbing or annoying task, depending on how far they rolled was easier with the chatty woman. Yoimiya knew how to talk to people, truly an extrovert with great social skills.

"That should be all of the fireworks. At least none of the boxes broke." You close the last crate and wipe the sweat from your brow.

"All thanks to you. I wasn't expecting anyone to be around since the ritual was in session. It should be finishing up though." She has an excited smile as she speaks and picks on two crates at a time.

Eager to change the subject you grab the last box and are about to pick it up. "No wonder you dropped it, carrying three crates would be too much-ugh. Damn, how much do these things weigh?"

You hurriedly position the crate in your arms to a more comfortable position as your grip tightens. You weren't weak but these things were absurdly heavy. You glance at her holding two of these monsters. She's not fazed in the slightest by the weight.

"The weight isn't too much of a problem, but the size was my oversight. I couldn't see while holding all 3 boxes and hit that bell. Thank you for carrying that one. Just follow me, we aren't too far from the drop-off location."

You inwardly sigh at now being stuck with the weight. But... You glance at the Yae Publishing House. Better than being stuck with Yae. You follow Yoimiya as you get closer and closer to the main area.

"Have you heard the rumors?"

"What rumors?"

"About there being an oracle! Really, it's only spread among the kids. They keep telling me that an oni, his name is Itto, keeps telling them about how he met the creator's oracle."

So, it's already starting. At least it's staying between the children right now, by the time Yae hears about it and connects the dots you'll be gone.

"Maybe it's true. You'll need to meet that oracle for yourself to be sure." You shrug and bump her shoulder. Playfully she bumps you back.

"I would love to meet them! Believing in fantastical things is a lot of fun. And if it turns out that they're a fake then I'll light them ablaze." You were suddenly reminded of Itto by how she spoke such vicious words with a bright smile.

"What if they prove that they are an oracle? What would you do then?"

"Ask if there is anything I can do to be awakened! I traveled to Sumeru with the traveler, and it was the closest thing to being awakened. Awakened acolytes can see all sorts of sights and stories."

The sparkle in her eyes was full of joy, no doubt imagining what it would be like for her wish to come true. The thought of your very low primogem count made you want to cry. 'Sorry Yoimiya, I don't think anyone is getting pulled at this time.'

Arriving back at the ritual area you can see the dead bodies being moved away and the blood being cleaned. You doubt they'd be able to clean up all the ashes today.

"Such a shame I missed out on it. But I would rather supply my fireworks for the finale festival than watch in a sweaty crowd."

To think that everyone here has grown numb to sight... Do people become less than cattle once they are dubbed a sacrifice? You follow Yoimiya around the slowly dispersing crowd to the back.

Ayaka is giving orders until she spots you both. Quickly she comes over with a smile.

"I'm relieved to see that you were with Yoimiya. Thank you for watching over the oracle in our absence."

"Wait-What?! They're the oracle?" Yoimiya comically looks between you and Ayaka's smiling faces.

"You just let me talk about the oracle while not telling me you're the oracle?" You finally laugh at that. Setting the crate down, you sigh in relief and speak.

"It was entertaining, I promise I was planning to tell you before we split paths."

"I'm torn between being embarrassed and happy. At least you know my wish now." She deflates as she holds the crates with a pout. It's gone as quick as it came and she's back with a sunny smile.

"Well, then Ayaka please lead the way for me to put these fireworks away. I can't wait for the final ritual to see them light up the sky."

"You just saw them last week, you're insatiable for fireworks. Y/N, I'll meet up with Ayato, Thoma, and you in a little bit."

Ayaka smiles softly and beckons Yoimiya to follow her. Yoimiya smiles cheerfully and waves enthusicastically before hauling all 3 boxes. Does archery really make your arms that strong?

"Y/N!" A shout of your name and hard armor meets your back as you're hugged from behind. It was just a quick hug before you spin around.

"Gorou, all done with that soldier?" He smiles widely showing off his fangs. He's holding your arms with his gloved hands as his tail wags.

"Yeah, sorry about having to leave so suddenly. Are you feeling better now? You don't look as bad as before."

"I'm feeling a lot better now. I didn't worry you too much right?"

"I mean, I can't deny that I was worried but you're all better now so that's all that matters. Remember if you need to talk about it, you can always come to me. I'd prefer it that way."

His whisper is low, and you strain to catch it. But he smiles with a blush and it's enough to dissuade you. He's helped you a lot, you didn't want to be too nosy. He's also one of the few that hasn't used you for information about the creator too. It doesn't bother you but it's nice feeling like he hangs out with you because he finds your company nice.

"It's been some time since I've seen General Gorou this happy. Are you a friend of his?"

Motherfucker- How in the world did you manage to run into Kokomi fucking Sangonomiya!?

You hadn't accounted for her appearance since she's usually on Watatsumi Island. She's way too good, like facing a kinder, fishier Yae. Hell, she managed to beat Yae in TCG and find the card snatcher in that event. This wasn't Ei but meeting Yae and Kokomi on the same day has got to be bullshit.

While you were internally dying Gorou took the initiative to introduce you to Kokomi with a happy grin.

"This is Y/N, they're an oracle for the creator. They even have the Kamisato Clan's approval."

"That is quite impressive, allow me to introduce myself first. My name is Sangonomiya Kokomi, I'm the divine priestess of Watatsumi Island."

"It's an honor to meet you Sangononomiya? Sanganonomiya? Sanganomiya?" Your voice gradually lowers as you butcher her name. Honestly, you were just hoping she would dislike you and leave. You did not want to have another Yae-level battle.

Purple glossy eyes watch you struggle with her name in amusement. You even managed to confuse yourself on how to pronounce her name. She can't help but laugh bringing a gloved hand to her mouth.

"You must not be a native Inazuman. You can just call me Kokomi, as an oracle and Gorou's friend I can trust that you're a good person."

Gorou beams at his superior's approval and his expectant stare on you makes you feel even more trapped. So much for getting her to dislike you.

"Thank you for your generosity, Kokomi. I've heard here and there how good of a leader you are. Both in and outside of combat. Your citizens seem to adore you a lot."

At least you don't have to pronounce Sangonomiya anymore. She takes a step closer and peers at you. She's good but not impossible.

"Thank you but I believe you aren't that different from me."

What the fuck is that supposed to mean. Gorou holds your hand with a confused face. Was he always this touchy-feely in the game? You can't remember well with Kokomi staring dead into your eyes.

"I'm the divine priestess for Orobaxi, a god that Watatsumi Island worships despite being deceased. And you are an oracle for the creator. All living beings in Teyvat worship the creator, our jobs may have more similarities than you think."

"Are you saying this because as an oracle I am a communicator between the creator and the people? While as divine priestess you carry out the will of Orobaxi to protect your people?"

She smiles knowingly making her eyes squint a bit. "Precisely. Wouldn't you benefit more from staying on Watatsumi Island? Maybe not permanently but you could learn a lot from staying with us."

Wait what? Does she think that you came here to help Narukami Island? Not a bad guess since you do have the Kamisato's approval. Is she trying to poach you?

"This isn't well known but I'm on a mission for the creator. I can't share all the details, but it involves me moving around Teyvat a lot. I already have transportation to Liyue all prepared. Thank you for the offer but I'll have to decline."

Gorou and Kokomi both have disappointed expressions with Gorou's being far more dramatic. Or maybe that was his dropping ears and tail exaggerating his look.

"I understand, the creator must come first. If the tides ever lead you back to Inazuma, please come and visit Watatsumi Island."

As adapting as water, she moves past her rejection and smiles softly holding out her hand. You grab it and shake her hand until you feel a familiar feeling. The feeling of eyes watching you and ears listening to you strikes you.

You release her hand and Gorou speaks to her about something. You can't focus on what they are saying as the feeling leaves you chills.

It must be Yae.

Now that you think about it, isn't it weird how Gorou and Kokomi are in plain sight with no Yae? Her rival, punching bag, and an easy victim are all in one group, surely, she would not hesitate to come over. Unless she's with Ei.

Jumping to conclusions, you are definitely jumping to conclusions. Forcing yourself to breathe easily, you smile casually as you can finally hear what Kokomi and Gorou are saying.

"Your Excellency, I've already moved that emergency shipment to the boat. We can wait for you to finish meeting with the Electro Archon."

"You should go on ahead without me. Whatever she has called me for doesn't sound like a minor problem."

"Even so, leaving you in enem-" Kokomi's look makes Gorou shut his mouth and backtrack.

"Right, right. Sorry, force of habit. But I would still feel more comfortable waiting till you are done, your Excellency."

"Okay, I understand your concern. Please wait in Inazuma City until I'm done." Gorou smiles at Kokomi's acceptance.

"So, you'll be staying a while longer? It's a shame you didn't come a day earlier. I'm leaving for Liyue today after all." You join in when you get a chance. The last thing you want is for Yae to notice how aware you are of her presence.

Kokomo opens her mouth to speak when yells of your name can be heard across the plaza. You all turn to see Thoma waving to grab your attention while Ayaka and Ayato calmly stand and stare at you. Or are they staring at Gorou and Kokomi?

You give a wave back to let them know you saw them. Turning back with a small and slightly sad smile you hide your joy at a perfect escape option.

"And that is my transportation calling me. It's been lovely meeting you Kokomi despite the short amount of time we spent together. And Gorou, you were the highlight of this festival, I'll be sure to seek you out next time I come."

Gorou seems to swoon at your words while Kokomi smiles at your words and holds both your hands. Her stare is unnervingly deep into your eyes. Fisheyes in the game and in real life are much different up close.

"You are quite the fascinating person. Whenever you do come back, Watatsumi Island is more than happy to greet you with open arms."

Your smile is gentle matching hers despite how you're secretly sweating bullets. She releases your hands, and you see Gorou smiling at Thoma who is clearly glaring at him.

Unlike humans, animals bare their teeth to threaten. That little tidbit of information comes to mind when you see that Gorou's grin is a little ferocious. It all goes away once he sees you looking at him.

"Y/N, whenever you come back, make sure to visit Watatsumi Island twice as much time as you spent here. I can show you even more stuff than what I showed you here."

"I will Gorou." You promise before petting his head. You weren't sure when you would get to pet someone like this again so you wanted to take advantage of it while you still can. Gorou seems to like it as much as you do. His eyes close and his tail wags a little as he angles himself deeper into your touch.

When you pull your hand off, he pouts a bit but waves to you as you walk to the Kamisato's. You carefully peek back to see Kokomi say something teasing to Gorou that makes him embarrassed.

Yae conveniently turns the corner at that exact moment and scares Gorou. Seems like you dodged a bullet at poor Gorou's expense. But it also raises a question. Did Yae intentionally wait for you to leave to join the group? If so, is it because she feels bad or because she doesn't want you hearing what she has to say?

Deciding to leave it be you turn back to the Kamisato's as you approach them. Once you're in reach Thoma sweeps you into his arms and hugs you.

"What a warm welcome. Missed me that much Thoma?" You say with a smile as Thoma sets you down.

"Well, I have to! You're leaving today, I have to make the most of it." He smiles a little embarrassed as he avoids your eyes.

"Totally not because I pet Gorou?"

"Totally."

Ayato covers his mouth with his sleeve and coughs with a not very subtle "Liar" in between. Ayaka swats his arm with her fan and Thoma playfully glares at Ayato.

You snicker at the familiar sight of them fighting and almost trip over a firework stick. Your near tumble makes them all pay instant attention to you. Ayato and Thoma are quick to put a hand on your shoulders to steady you as Ayaka picks it up.

"It's a few are still missing. I'll have to send a servant to put it with the others later."

"Damn, sorry Ayaka I thought Yoimiya and I got them all. Will you have enough for the final ritual this month?"

"Oh yes more than enough. We always order extra just in case something like this happens. It's a shame you won't be here to see the final ritual." She looks to the ground sadly as she finishes.

"Ayaka is right, it truly is a shame. The final ritual is the cumulative of everyone's efforts and the fireworks look beautiful at night. I mean you could always stay until then. The Kamisato Estate is always open to you."

Ayato speaks with a purposefully convincing tone. What is up with people trying to convince you to stay? First Kokomi and now Ayato? Without thinking too deeply you reply.

"The journey from Liyue to Inazuma is pretty long and unpredictable. And there's no way I can freeload on you guys for some fireworks. Next time I come over I'll stay longer to attend it. Besides I can use the teleport waypoints."

The second you say that is the moment you regret it. Great going, now you'll be forced back to Inazuma in less than a month!

Too busy insulting yourself for your own stupidity you don't see how Ayaka and Thoma light up. Eagerly she writes down the date and time of the final ritual before placing it in your palm.

"Oh, that's perfect Y/N! Now you can continue being an oracle the way you wished and make it in time for the festival."

Ayato seems far too calm and smug for this whole thing to just be your own mistake. There's no doubt Ayato was waiting for you to mention teleporting yourself. Probably in case there was some prerequisite. Which you definitely would have made up if he mentioned it first. No one else to blame except yourself.

"Thanks, Ayaka, I'll do my best to attend." You slip the paper into your bag and smile warmly. You can't out right reject it now but maybe later on you can make some sort of excuse to avoid attending. Either way you have time and if you do have to attend...

Then your luck and lies going your way will let you have a firm standing as an oracle that won't allow Ei to suspect you that easily.

Maybe you're better off faking your death and living with the Aranaras. As the creator you should have some sort of influence on creatures. Hopefully...

"So, since the ritual is done and the festival is coming to an end, I should be on my way to Ritou. What boat am I taking?"

"That eager to leave Y/N? I would have thought you would at least let me bring up the topic seeing as we housed you all this time." Ayato's eyes are narrowed as he looks at you. His hand is covering his face and his voice sounds annoyed.

"I would never want to overstay my welcome in your estate. How could I take advantage of your kindness anymore then I already have? Besides wouldn't kind hosts like yourself avoid making your guests unwelcome by bringing up the topic of leaving. I'm simply doing you a favor."

You speak with a mocking kind voice and bring out the fan he gave you to cover your mouth. His annoyed voice melts away as he laughs softly at your actions. You crack a smile too until he tips your fan forward to reveal your face.

"This fan will be your ticket to the boat. As promised, I selected the best boat, the Crux will treat you kindly when you board the Alcor. Captain Beidou is said to be one of the best captains and a crew member by the name Kaedehara Kazuha was once a loyal subordinate of the Kamisato's."

That was actually pretty cool. Beidou is said to have defeated a hydra in her character entry. Plus, Kazuha was a really popular character. You were fond of them both and thinking of meeting them with no worry of dying sounded amazing.

At least until you remembered how the Crux was known for 'daring' adventures meaning batshit dangerous sailing. They could all survive it because they either have a vision or training. But you? You weren't a fighter, nor did you have any powers. It's that stupid dilemma about what to do when you inventible encounter enemies again!

"Thanks Ayato, the creator seems to trust them both a lot too. To get to Ritou I'll need to pass Byakko Plain and Konda village. And that little shore area with loads of monsters."

Ayato pauses when you mention monsters. He didn't forget that you can't fight right? You look to Ayaka and she's avoiding your gaze. You turn a little more urgently to Thoma just for him to smile nervously.

"You all forgot that I don't have any guards, fighting skills and powers, didn't you?"

"It's not that we forgot when we were making preparations Y/N. Originally, I was going to accompany you but the Shogun suddenly announced a meeting this morning that will be starting in an hour. Ayato and I will be forced to attend leaving Thoma the only one to take care of the estate in our absence."

You feel a bit more frantic. Maybe if it was daylight, you'd just take the risk but nighttime? You have no intention of dying to a hilichurl or any other monsters, humans included.

"Can't a guard come with me then?"

"It seems that's our only choice. The guards are necessary for the festival due to the large number of people. And the amount only heightens at night but it's a risk we'll have to take. Your safety is priority, you'll need two guards at least"

You feel a bit guilty knowing that you'll be putting the public in danger. But the chance of someone dying without two guards is much lower than the chance of you dying without a guard. It's not a bad thing to have survival instincts, you tell yourself to ease the guilt.

"Wouldn't a better idea be for me to accompany them instead?" Someone butts into the conversation (rude) with a horrifically familiar voice.

Clips of the scene "Traveler, you're so dreamy~" echo throughout your mind as you remember his first birthday art posted on Reddit during a crisis that only caused more chaos.

Heizou walks with confidence to your group smiling innocently. Like he wasn't just eavesdropping on everything. You want to scream.

Who fucking cursed you?! You managed to run into everybody you wanted to avoid! Except Ei but you were starting to doubt that you'll be able to avoid her too.

Thoma throws Heizou a suspicious glance before standing next to you protectively. You wish Thoma was able to protect you from whatever Heizou's intuition is telling him about you. There's a large chance he heard you be referred to as an oracle.

Ayato and Ayaka keep their composure as Heizou stops in front of them who are standing in front of you. Seems like they all don't want him close to you. Is it because he's part of the Tenryou Commission?

"My, what's the caution about? I'm an upstanding member of the Tenryou Commission. With a vision too! I prefer not to fight but I am good at it." His voice was even more melodious in person. If only it wasn't hiding the absolute trap, you know he has behind his back.

"Considering that you were eavesdropping on our conversation for a while, I truly doubt your words. You always abandon or delegate your work to other people too. Can I really trust that with Y/N's safety?"

Ayato's words are as sharp as his stare. His eyes are similar to the depths of the ocean waiting to pull their victims into the freezing water. It really reminded you of when you first met him. Your relationship with him has improved in bounds and leaps.

"Now, now no need to be so hostile. I'm under Madam Kujou Sara this time. She was worried about the oracle and asked me to check up on them. I am the only other vision holder that's awakened in the Tenryou Commission. I can promise you that they'll make it to Ritou, they'll probably be boarding the Crux, correct?"

Heizou, to his credit, is good under Ayato's pressure. Probably from dealing with Sara all the time. Thoma clearly doesn't trust Heizou, Ayaka is seemingly neutral on the matter and Ayato is weirdly against Heizou.

"Were you not listening early enough to be sure what boat Y/N is going on?"

How didn't you notice Heizou listening? You were able to spot Yae right away, yet you missed him?

"The oracle is clearly an important person as they are directly connected to the creator. Only the Crux could provide a level of safety fit for them."

You saw Yae first, so you were always on guard for her. Did you unknowingly relax around the Kamisato's therefore preventing you from noticing Heizou?

"All it took was a quick deduction. I'm a detective for a reason." Heizou ends with a smile. Ayato though less tense hasn't let up his stare. The tension is killing you, but you can't afford to stay any longer.

Heizou only offered to figure out the mystery behind you and his intuition probably had a hand in it too. Going with him does mean dealing with whatever questions he throws at you, but it seems to be your only choice. You can't risk staying any longer and running into Ei.

You move away from Thoma's side and place a hand on Ayato's shoulder. You smile trying to lessen Ayato's suspicion.

"He doesn't seem to be a bad choice at all. Going with him means I'll be safe and so will everyone else. Like he said, he's an awakened acolyte with a vision. Sara wouldn't send him unless she was truly okay with it. She's very cautious concerning these things after all."

Ayato looks down at you with a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. If it was up to him, he would accompany you himself. Better yet he would keep you in Inazuma. He knows Ayaka and Thoma would be more than happy with that too.

But the longer he looks at you the more he knows that what he wants just isn't going to happen or work. The nervous smile you send him makes his heart flutter. With a sigh he nods.

"If that's what you wish Y/N then Shikanoin can escort you to the boat." And if his subordinate that is already stationed there reports back that you never boarded the boat then he knows exactly who to blame.

You smile feeling relieved that you won't have to worry about dying on the journey. Looking to Heizou you feel that relief turn to exhaustion as you imagine what the conversation during the journey will be like.

"You're Shikanoin Heizou correct? I'm Y/N, an oracle for the creator. Although I don't appreciate you eavesdropping, I am thankful that you'll be escorting me."

You walk forward and hold out your hand to shake his. Heizou looks at the two Kamisato's and honorary Kamisato behind you who are giving him varying levels of glares. Flashing a smug smile to them he shakes your hand.

"Don't mention it Y/N. You can just call me Heizou, we'll be spending a lot of time together on this trip after all."

You can tell he's saying that more to rile up the Kamisatos, but you tactfully ignore it and release his hand. Time to play damage control! Fun.

You turn around to face them with a grin. You were honestly going to miss them, a lot more than you originally thought.

"I can't thank you three enough for helping me out like this. Whenever I visit Inazuma again, the first stop will be the estate. Probably when the final ritual is occurring. If there's anything I can do for you, let me know, okay?"

They all gave you their own version of goodbye.

"I'll be eagerly awaiting your next visit." A sad but happy face hiding behind a fan.

"Come whenever, I'll make you more good food!" An excited and slightly melancholic expression.

"Don't sound so sappy, you make it sound like you'll die." A gentle look that alludes to the longing hiding behind it.

You can't help but feel a sense of dread rise up. As if the next time you see them won't be as happy as you think it'll be.

But that's the future. The future can always be changed. You shouldn't get so hung up and worried about something that is so far away.

To ease your worries and the sorrow you feel at having to leave, you wave to them with a bright smile. You follow Heizou who already began walking to Inazuma City's exit.

He isn't speaking, just quietly leading you through the city. You don't bother trying to break the quiet like you did with Ayato. You don't need Heizou's attention anymore then you probably have.

Your eyes trail over Heizou as you follow him. You try not to stare at his exposed sides but judging by the smile he gives you... He definitely noticed. Slu-

"Are all oracles supposed to be as perverted as you?"

"What do you mean by perverted? If you take my glances at you as perversion, then you're the perverted one. Aren't you cold?"

"It's not that bad. I'm sure you're at least a little warmer with that mask on." Here comes the questions.

"It's broken, any heat I could retained is lost through the cracks."

"Then why wear it? Surely the Kamisato's would gladly fund you more masks. So, what's so special about that mask? Why even wear it?"

Unlike Yae who was only interested in toying with you, Heizou is looking to solve the mystery. Plus, you had him which means he must feel the pull you give off as the creator. What's the point of being the creator if it only leads you to more problems?

Like it or not you're stuck in this situation and his intuition is like an otherworldly sense. Staying silent might lead him to arrest you, you can't risk missing the boat. So, you'll need to lead him around, a plan that just might work due to his own pride.

"Well why can't I? My mask isn't hurting anyone. Is your instinct as a detective telling you that my mask is important?"

"My intuition you mean. You're smart enough to get the Kamisato's trust and Madam Kujou Sara's trust. And I have a hunch that, that mask is connected to your oracle status."

"Doubting me huh? Well, you can't arrest me for wearing a mask or just looking shady so let's make this journey fun." You say with a smile as you both pass farms and the huge tree at the edge of the city.

"What are you proposing?"

"I guess you could call it a game. Your intuition seems sharp enough to pick up on any bullshit I spew. Ask me any questions and I'll give you cryptic answers. Maybe I'm lying, telling the truth, deflecting or a mix of them all. A test of both of our skills. If you can figure out why I'm hiding my face, then I'll tell you everything."

You actually mean it. Mostly because Heizou wouldn't believe you if you aren't being honest. If he can actually wait and listen to everything, then maybe he won't immediately attack you.

You know it's a stupid chance, but you can't risk being here any longer. You want to stop feeling scared of thunderous skies and lighting chasing your every move.

Heizou is quiet as he watches you while thinking. Should he accept this? His intuition won't stop nagging him to find the truth behind you. What does he really have to lose playing with you like this? With a smile he finally responds.

"Alright, let's see if you can keep the truth hidden as well as you think you can. Is that mask special?"

"Not really, I only took it because it was broken."

"Why would you take a broken mask?"

"The price of course, well the lack of price I mean." You only fibbed a little there. You have to test how well he can pick up on lies.

He hums in acknowledgement. It's clear he doesn't fully believe it. The game was right to dub him as a prodigy detective.

"That mask has the trademark of Mr. Sanden. He's a bit of a perfectionist, he doesn't sell any masks he isn't happy with. So how did you manage to get him to sell it to you?"

He's got home advantage too. But remembering Heizou's past made you recall his hatred for sin. You can't help but worry that he'll react violently if you admit your theft. That's what selective wording is good for!

"You got me. Sanden didn't want to sell it to me, but he eventually did let me leave with it. I'm thankful since the mask has served me well."

"Are you wearing that mask to deter certain people?" That little bait was a good deflection.

"Well, you could say so. Maybe I committed a crime that would be revealed with my mask off. Or I'm hiding an ugly scar behind it that I don't want people to see. It could be that I'm living a double life and this mask is the only difference between my lives."

You shrug and pass by the spot where you met the Arrataki Gang. Not for the first time you missed them. Sara included, at least you didn't need to think hard and fast on how to fool her.

"What do you think is the truth? Are they all true to a degree? Or are they all lies?"

Heizou hums and holds his chin looking like a true detective. You look a little closer to examine the moles beneath his eyes. It was pretty cool how he had matching ones. He snaps his fingers and points at you with mirth.

"Sounds more like two lies and a truth. Or maybe half-truth would be a better description. That double life choice seems to be on the right track."

He wasn't wrong, but the answer was much farther than a double life. You spot the teleport waypoint that you activated after defeating those treasure hoarders and nobushi. Are the materials you collected from them still bloody?

"Believe what you will. I don't necessarily need to confirm whether you got the correct answer."

"Getting a little defensive aren't you. Seems like I should ask you a little more about this topic. Where were you born?"

"I actually don't know." It's true, you had no clue what hospital or city you were born in.

"Then where did you arrive in Inazuma? Watatsumi or Ritou?"

"Neither I simply woke up on Seirai Island." You know he'll probably dig around for more information about this topic once you leave but you're okay with that. How will he tell which story on your appearance is true or false?

"I find it hard to believe that you don't remember anything beyond that."

"I don't have many memories before becoming the oracle. Realizing what I have to do ordered by the creator makes me believe that my past-"

Your rambling is cut off by the scoff he lets out.

"Man alive, no need to start preaching about the creator that I've personally experienced. I don't believe your words about the creator at all. And we got quite off topic, didn't we? Tell me, did the creator order you to wear that mask?"

What a question. Perfect time to test deflection.

"Would you stop asking me questions if I say that the creator did order me to wear it? Would you even believe me if I said that they did?"

"No."

"So, you're just asking to fuck with me?"

"Not necessarily, all these questions are just steppingstones to the truth."

"Fancy way to say that you'll ask me anything and everything."

"Glad to hear that you've already accepted your fate." This little shit.

You slow down your pace while passing by the temple. You feel a bit tempted to enter it to admire the murals. Heizou stops to watch you stare up at it in amazement. For an 'oracle' you seem mesmerized by the temple.

You jump a little as Heizou slings a arm around your shoulder and pulls you along the path again. Konda village is in sight and his breath is fanning over your ear.

"So, tell me Y/N, do you at least remember what region you were born in? Or at least lived in before becoming an oracle? Y/N isn't a very common name, in fact you're the first person I've met with that name."

"Well, I'm quite sure I wasn't born in Inazuma. I wouldn't call Seirai Island a home either." You nearly whisper as you stare straight into his eyes. You refused to be psyched out, not after all the other authorities you tricked on Earth.

He lets go of you and walks a little ahead of you. Frowning in confusion you speed up to match his pace. You barely catch the way his smile wavers a little and his hand toys with the baton on his hip. Was the previous proximity affecting Heizou too?

"What's wrong Heizou? For someone who I pegged as the teasing type you sure can't handle your own consequences."

Heizou smiles a littler wider contradicting how his eyebrows furrow. There's a large chance you're a criminal, something like that shouldn't have affected him so strongly. So why did you? Why did the heat of your body and smell of something sweet on you make him fumble like that?

"Speak for yourself, your heart was beating out of your chest."

"Even noticed my heartbeat huh? Sounds like you've got some sort of crush."

"You wish now stop trying to distract me. In fact, what about those writings on the temple walls made you so distracted."

"They were writing?" You questioned instinctively and immediately regretted it. The smile Heizou wears is victorious.

"Yes, it was. Do you know how to read?"

"No. Or at least not that well."

"Heh so that's a yes, just not in this language."

"Basically."

"Interesting and very believable. That writing was very old, but it was written in the universal language with Inazuma dialect. Meaning you should be able to at least recognize it as writing, but you didn't."

You're nervous but you calmly cross the stone bridge into Konda village. Heizou seems to want to ask something but the yells from parents interrupt him.

"Takeru! Takeru, you little rascal it's bedtime! Where are you?! Oh, where is he?" An older woman is calling out for Takeru who seems to be a child judging by the bedtime.

"Futaba! It's nighttime, it's not safe to be out this late! Futaba!" A much older woman with white hair is calling out too. You and Heizou pass by them a little concerned.

The sky is darkening but it's not pitch black just yet. Those children should probably still be out playing or something. Heizou hums and sweeps his eyes across the village.

"After I drop you off, I'll come back to make sure those kids came back fine."

"Is it normal for children to play without supervision?" The thought of kids playing outside when there are literal monsters around sounds unbelievable.

"It's quite common especially around villages like this where only elderly and children live. This is a farming village too so they're likely playing on the farm."

You nod and follow Heizou to leave the village by going under the flimsy looking gate. The sickle you picked up and put in your bag on whim still makes you uneasy. Your gut feeling made you pick it up and you aren't quite sure what to do with it now.

"I haven't forgotten about your slip up. So, either you lied about knowing how to read or you know how to read in a different language that has no roots in the universal language."

This guys just does not miss a beat. As you get closer to the beach area that leads to Ritou, you see a teleport waypoint. You couldn't activate the one in Inazuma City due to the crowd and Yae but this one could be used to your advantage.

You stop at the waypoint making Heizou look at you in confusion. You place a hand on the waypoint and relish in the new gold color it turns. Smugly you look to see Heizou staring at the waypoint with a shocked expression.

"Man alive, how did you-?"

He's cut off by a scream. It sounds like a young boy and you both look at each other in alert. Immediately Heizou turns and runs down the steps onto the shore with you following him.

The scream is joined by another scream sounding like a girl. You and Heizou follow it to the right and run past the waterfall and follow the dirt path. Blindly passing by a hilichurl camp you see a Fatui Hydrogunner and an Electrohammer.

You freeze up in fear as you watch a boy be slung over the Hydrogunner's shoulder and a girl try to crawl away from the Electrohammer. Heizou wastes no time to deliver an anemo infused punch to the Electrohammer giving the girl a chance to stand up.

You take a deep breath and move closer to hold the girl. She clings onto you in fear as she weeps loudly. You watch in a daze as Heizou continues dealing blows to the Electrohammer. At least until the Hydrogunner makes his move.

"Freeze or the boy drowns."

All three of you freeze as the Hydrogunner points to his gun to the boy's head. The Electrohammer hits Heizou straight in the chest with the war hammer knocking him back.

"Heizou!" You yell as you watch him hit the ground harshly. You yelp in pain when you're suddenly lifted up harshly by your neck. Struggling in his grasp uselessly until he squeezes your neck and throws you over his shoulder. The girl cowers and cries as she's yanked onto the other side.

Heizou stands up but stays in place as the Hydrogunner keeps the gun to the boy's head. You're about to wrap your hands around the Electrohammer's neck when he speaks.

"I wouldn't do that unless you want the boy to get blown to pieces."

You freeze before hanging limply over his shoulder. Everything is quiet save for the children's sobs. The Electrohammer starts walking farther from the city and the Hydrogunner does the same but slower.

You can only watch as Heizou's furious face gets smaller and smaller. They bring you and the kids to a camp close to Araumi. You land roughly on the floor with rope tied around you. A Anemoboxer who was waiting at their camp ties up the kids and drops them next to you. You give one last scathing glare before they close the tent flap.

Tense, you wait a few moments until you hear the muffled sounds of them talking. You turn back to look at the scared kids next to you.

"Hey, hey it's okay. We're going to get out of this, okay? Did you see that guy with me? He's a friend and he's really strong too. He's gonna get us out of here."

Their sobs slow down at your words and they look up at you. They have little scratches and scraps from trying to escape the Fatui.

"I want to go home, I wanna see Granny." "Are they going to take us?"

You shush them quietly to stop them from working themselves up into a crying fit.

"Me and my friend are going to make sure you get home safe. Why don't you both tell me your names? Mine is Y/N and my friend is called Heizou."

"I'm Takeru and she's Futaba." Takeru speaks with a waver as Futaba nods tearfully. They're still scared and the conversation between the Fatui is slowly turning into an argument.

"It's nice to meet you both, now I need you both to be brave and stay quiet for me." They both nod and you smile trying to offer some comfort. You couldn't let them take you and the kids' hostage again.

The ropes are tight around your torso and wrists, but they underestimated you. There is a pole in the middle of the tent with a wheel but it's the gear behind it that matters.

Carefully you move your legs until they are bent underneath you. You stand up and stumble a little to the gear. You can feel the sharp edges around the gear and smile.

At first you try to cut the large rope around your torso, but the rope is too thick and strong. You move your back higher against the pole so that the rope around your wrists is the one being cut.

Takeru and Futaba watch you in a mixture of fear and hope. You smile when you feel the rope give away and fall to the ground. With your hands free, you struggle a little to shimmy your bound arms to your front.

It's like wearing a really tight shirt with your arms still in it. Uncomfortable but not super painful. Once it's done you move to your bag that was thrown on the ground. Carefully you kneel and open it.

The game screen is deeper in the bag, and you shove your hand in to select the sickle you took from Konda village. When you pull your hand out it's weakly holding the sickle.

The kids smile as hope becomes clearer. The argument outside is getting louder. Yells of "this wasn't the plan!" and "we have to do it!" are making you increasingly worried.

Carefully you maneuver the sickle to cut the ropes without cutting your own shirt. The ropes break and you stretch your arms to get the blood flowing.

"Alright, I'm gonna get you both free but you have to stay quiet and listen to me or we'll get caught again."

They nod eagerly and you move behind them. You cut off the ropes and they stand up in a flash. But the loud sound of a punch cuts your victory short. Takeru and Futaba huddle closer to you in fear.

You smile kindly and hold out your free hand to them.

"Hold onto me, be prepared to make a run." They nod and grasp your arm as the sound of fighting gets louder. You walk closer to the tent flap and lift it to see the outside.

Heizou is fighting them all with a few wounds. The hit he took earlier must still be affecting him. This was not a good match up. Although the elemental shields aren't up yet, it wasn't an easy fight.

The Anemoboxer and the Hydrogunner are both healing and the Electrohammer is giving heavy electro blows. Not even mentioning the swirl that's happening. Once those shields come up, Heizou will have even more work to do.

The minute they have one of you hostage is when the fight is over. You can't let that happen. You can dodge but the kids can't. You eye the path and turn back to the kids.

"Listen carefully, you saw that dirt path they took us on? You need to follow it back to where me and Heizou found you. Just stay there and wait, okay? If anyone that you don't recognize starts coming. just hide."

You would rather them go straight back to Konda village, but you didn't want them at the mercy of the hilichurls either. They tremble but nod at your words.

You look out the flap sneakily and suck in a breath as the Anemoboxer starts heading towards the tent you all are at. Quickly you throw it open and drag the kids out with you.

The fighting freezes for a moment as the flap hits the Anemoboxer in the face and you push the kids in front of you. The Electrohammer and Hydrogunner look at you in surprise.

"Run!"

This springs the kids into action and Heizou delivers a charged up anemo punch to the Hydrogunner. Rain starts to fall, and the elemental shields were thrown up. The Anemoboxer has just doubled in your dangerous rating. The Anemoboxer reaches out for you making you jump back.

You just need to keep the Anemoboxer away from Heizou who's dealing with the other two Fatui Skirmishers. You keep dodging and running circles around him. You were mostly afraid of him using anemo to pull you in.

The fights weren't like watching it in the game. These guys bleed even while encased in the war machines. You hear the groan of the Hydrogunner passing out and smile crookedly. Was this fight finally going to be over soon?

The Anemoboxer leaves you to fight Heizou and you finally take a breather. Heizou doesn't stick to the Genshin game rules either. His catalyst follows him as he mixes up his normal attack pattern. Horrible timing but it's really cool watching him use anemo in creative ways that the game never showed.

The enemies seem to be in a rougher state. There's a three way stand off as they all stop to catch their breath. You see movement behind Heizou and feel your blood run cold.

"Heizou behind you!"

Heizou follows your words and just barely dodges the water blast from the Hydrogunner that was slowly getting back up. With one last fully charged kick to the head, the Hydrogunner falls down. The loud crack lets you know that he may never get up again.

The other two Fatui don't let the opportunity slip. With the Anemoboxer dragging Heizou closer, the Electrohammer slams the hammer down onto Heizou. You clench the sickle in your hand tighter as you can only watch in horror.

You stayed out of the fight for a reason, you couldn't fight you would only be in the way. But that's not an option anymore. Hearing his pained groans as he's punched by the Anemoboxer swirling the electro and rain spurs you into action.

While the Anemoboxer's back is turned you sneak up and raise the sickle. The spot in his back with no armor covering it seems to call to you. You slam the tip of the blade straight into it making him cry out.

You pull it out in a hurry and jump back as the wound bleeds more. The Electrohammer looks at you in surprise giving Heizou a long enough breather to get back up.

The Electrohammer and Heizou go straight back to combat as the Anemoboxer faces you. His huge gauntlets swing around trying to hit you as he coughs up blood. The ground is slippery, and it makes your dodging a little harder.

You jump closer to the boxer making him throw up his shield in reflex. Using the rain, you slide around him and slash his thigh to limit his speed.

The sickle's weight was clumsy at first but the more you traded blows using it, the more you came to master it. Gritting your teeth, you quickly stand back up after slipping from the wet ground.

Silently you urge Heizou to hurry up, you weren't sure how much more you could take. Your mask was starting to crumble but you pushed it to the back of your mind.

The boxer runs up to you in a flash not letting you back away fast enough. Reflexes are what save you from a punch to the face as you crouch and roll away. He's still bringing his fist back to defend himself giving you an opening.

You can tell something is different as you swing your sickle. Something about you is different that makes you wonder if you'll be able to finish the boxer once and for all.

Electro crackles around the sickle as you puncture his chest. The electro-charged reaction and wound seem to do the trick. The boxer stumbles and gasps for air.

You watch in horror and relief as the boxer falls onto the floor. You really killed again, and you used elemental to do so. You don't have a moment to stew on that though as you hurriedly dodge the now furious Electrohammer. The war hammer slams onto the ground and Heizou is quick to kick a projectile anemo shot to his face.

It knocks him to the ground, and you watch with unknown feelings as the mask he wears breaks. The fight is over, you and Heizou won. There's no time to wallow in self-pity, not as Heizou stumbles with a dazed expression.

You're quick to support him and he lays his bleeding head on you. You gently move his arm to wrap around you and do the same for him. His wounds aren't life threatening or serious, but he's been bleeding for a while. You need to stop the bleeding first.

Helping him gently you move him to lean against a small boulder. In a rush you go back to the tent and open your bag. You take out some of the leftover medical supplies you kept (stole) from the Kamisato Estate.

Slinging the bag back on you hurry to Heizou. The rain seems to be letting up as you examine him. His head is bleeding from a cut, so you bandage it first. His shirt is dyed red, and you lift it up and wince at the sight.

Multiple bruises and cuts cover his stomach and chest. That's gonna be a bitch to bandage, especially considering how much damage his back too.

"Sorry Heizou, this'll hurt." Heizou only weakly groans with his eyes screwed shut in pain.

Pushing the shirt as high as you can, you start wrapping it around him. Not the best solution but it's your only one with so little supplies. Heizou's consciousness seems to come and go as you finish and fix his shirt.

The thought of Heizou closing his eyes and falling asleep in such a state worries you. What if he passes out from blood loss and dies? Thoughts like that rise up and you grasp for anything to keep him awake.

"Hey Heizou, if you can respond to me in words. I'll tell you a big hint to my secret."

His eyes focus on you a little more. That's a good sign, nothing like baiting a detective like him with leads.

"Well, *cough* what hint are you *cough* going to give me?" His raspy voice and coughs worry you, but they seem to make him more awake.

"You were really close on me having a second life."

"That's it? That's a *cough* crappy hint."

You laugh at his remark trying to hide your relief. The fear of holding another cold body of someone you cared about still plagues you.

"If you want a better hint then you better drag it out of me as I drag you back to Konda village."

You support him as he chuckles at your words. He does his best to not lay too much weight on you but that's hard when his head is fuzzy.

The walk is quiet and with him so close you relish in the sound of his harsh breathing. It lets you know that he's still breathing, that you didn't fail.

You don't want to think about the person you just killed. So, your mind analyzes about the electro you wielded through the sickle instead. It makes a lot of sense that you can use the elements through a weapon as a medium. How could you have not realized that possibility?

If you continued training with it, could you eventually use electro without a weapon? Probably not but the idea of shooting electro is cool, nonetheless.

Takeru and Futaba are waiting nervously in the spot you instructed. You smile at the sight and wait till you are closer to call out.

"Futaba, Takeru! Over here!"

They smile at the sight of you both and run to meet you. Futaba frowns in worry at the sight of Heizou and you injured. Takeru tries to help by supporting his other side.

Heizou buries his head in the crook of your neck to hide the grimace of pain as Takeru touches the wounded area.

"Takeru, Futaba can you guys guide us to Konda village? It's an important job since we don't want to get ambushed by enemies."

Eyes wide they nod and walk a little ahead. They survey the surroundings seriously and nod at you firmly to show that it's safe.

Heizou keeps his head on your shoulder and mumbles. "Thanks, guess you're as perceptive as I thought."

You huff in amusement and continue supporting him until you all get to Konda village. The two women that were looking for the kids earlier spot you all and rush over.

They both hug their respective family members with tears in their eyes. It's clear that the kids aren't over the dangerous encounter.

"Thank you so much for saving Takeru and Futaba. You both seem very injured, please come to my house. I have some supplies that can help you both."

The village chief approaches you and Heizou with concern. You nod gratefully and help Heizou into the house. There's a small cot on the floor and Heizou lays down on it slowly.

Konda Densuke, the village chief comes back with a fully stocked medical kit. It's more primitive than the ones you are used to in Earth, but it'll work well enough.

"I'll leave you to it, once you're done, please come outside. I'll have something that can help that young man."

Quietly you thank the old man and turn back to Heizou as the door closes.

"I'm about to get pretty personal with your body, that's not a problem, right?"

"Why are you asking as if you weren't doing that earlier? Of course, it's fine, just don't be so obvious with your staring."

"If you weren't injured, I would hit you myself."

He chuckles and removes his cracked arm guards. You focus on taking out the bandages and ointment out of the kit. You leave briefly to wet a rag with water and come back to see Heizou shirtless sitting on the cot.

He smiles up at you seemingly more aware and alert. His bandages around his torso are stained red. Smaller cuts and scrapes cover his arms and legs. The bandage on his forehead is bleeding a lot less than before.

You kneel beside him and carefully remove the bandage on his head. Heizou bears the pain of you wiping away the dirt and applying the ointment well. The new patch is put on his head and your hands move lower to the bandages around his torso.

After unraveling it, you feel relieved that nothing has become inflamed or infected yet. The bruises on his back and front are tended to before you clean the cuts. You firmly wrap the new bandage around his torso. He only tenses up as you finish.

"This is only a temporary solution. Once we get to Ritou you should see a doctor."

"I will, I promise but I must say. This is some pretty good work, like you have experience doing this kind of thing. Care to tell me who you've helped before?"

He really is a nuisance. He was almost killed in a bad match up with three Fatui Skirmishers and his first instinct after properly waking up is to question you?

"Seriously? Not even a thank you? And my expertise comes from taking care of myself if you must know." Scowling with no real annoyance you put away the remaining supplies back into the med kit.

Heizou laughs at your reaction before placing a hand on your shoulder. He rests his head on the opposite shoulder and speaks softly. What is with this guy and leaning on you?

"You're right, thank you Y/N. Even with my suspicions, I'm still thankful that you helped me and those kids. I'm hoping that whatever secret you're hiding isn't one I'll ever have to arrest you for."

HIs bare bandaged chest against your back makes you embarrassed.

"Aren't you a bit too up close and personal with someone you're suspecting?" You say stiffly as he proceeds to melt even further into you.

"Getting shy?" He whispers teasingly. His face is dangerously close to your neck making you tense up further. You already knew that he was a flirt but isn't he moving too fast?!

Your face gets redder as his breath grazes your neck. People have tried to trick you in numerous ways before. That includes pretending to have fallen in love with you for information. Seduction never worked on you due to how untrusting you are.

But in Teyvat? Where the characters you found comfort in and loved? It was hard not to be affected or overthink things like this. While you were avoiding looking at him, Heizou took his time admiring you.

The flustered look on your face, your fingers drumming on your thigh. It was adorable how nervous you were. For a split second he remembered how comfortable you were around the Kamisato, how brightly you smiled. Did you get all flustered around them like this too?

A flash of jealousy engulfs him, and his body seems out of his control. His teeth lightly nip your neck making you stand up in a flash. Your voice is steady, but your heart is beating out of control.

"I'm going to see what the village chief had for you. Just stay here."

Watching you leave in a hurry makes him realize what he just did. Man alive, what the hell made him act like that? Despite the slight guilt from overstepping a boundary, he honestly didn't regret it. If he had a chance, he'd probably do it again.

When you come back in with two plates and a cup. Your face was back to normal, and your posture was relaxed.

"They were nice enough to make us some food and a drink to help with your blood loss. It's some citrus juice so make sure to drink it all."

Sitting down next to him, you pass him the cup and a plate. You eat the food and Heizou follows your lead. It's fine if you don't want to touch on what happened. Frankly he's still unsure why he's become so enamored by you as well. But at least he has a better grasp on you and your secret.

After eating everything you both return the dishes and thank the chief. The elderly women, Takeru, and Futaba all come out despite the dark sky. They thank you and Heizou asking if you need anything.

"Don't worry, I'm just glad no one got seriously hurt." Heizou tries to elbow you with playful intent, but you move out the way with a smile.

"Why don't you both stay the night? Those injuries must still be bothering you. We have extra room."

You only had some minor bruising compared to Heizou. The cuts and scrapes were no more than an itch to you. These kinds of injuries were normal to you on Earth. And you really couldn't afford to waste any more time.

"Thanks for the offer but we have to get to Ritou before the stars come out. Please stay safe."

You wave to them one last time before arriving back at the shore area.

"Seems like there's no more children being kidnapped, let's get across this area fast."

Heizou on the other hand seems content to just stroll along. Well, that wouldn't work for you, you could not miss the Crux. You stop letting Heizou walk a little ahead of you. He notices your absence and stops to look back at you in confusion.

You run past him and grab something from his side. You slow your sprint a little to face him as you raise your prize.

"If you want your jitte back then you'll have to catch me!" Spinning around you face Ritou's direction and continue running. You can hear Heizou kick sand as he chases after you.

He honestly could care less about his jitte. It's the sight of you smiling brightly as he tries to grab you that makes him continue chasing you. The wounds and injuries from the fight still ache but it's worth the pain. You're worth the pain.

You'll be leaving soon. You might be a fraud. Logic says that being so fixated on you so soon is dangerous and stupid. Yet his smile never leaves his face as he finally snatches his jitte out of your hand.

His intuition screams at him that you're so much more. That whatever you're hiding will bring him happiness of a lifetime. That you will bring him that happiness.

You stumble onto the stone pavement in Ritou as Heizou keeps his hand on your shoulder. You're both calming down from laughing at him nearly falling face first into the sand.

"How didn't you see that pile of crabs? Too distracted by me to focus?"

"What if I was? You can't tell since you nearly passed out from laughing at me."

"You can't blame me for that! I would pay good money to have seen you actually fall face first."

You walk past Ritou's town square as the docks and inspection tent get into view.

"Money huh? Is that the currency in your old world?"

You continue walking casually but there's no denying how you almost froze up.

"Is that the conclusion you've come to after all the questions?"

"My intuition tells me that I've barely scrapped the surface but I'm all out of leads. For now, my suspicion is that you come from another world similar to the traveler. Although I'm not sure if the creator ordered you to keep your identity secret. You do seem to be an oracle for them."

Psychology really was amazing. By getting Heizou so worked up about your mask, you managed to have him believe you to be an oracle. The minor fact of you not being from this world makes him feel accomplished in a sense. You let him figure out one secret to hide a bigger one.

"You really are a great detective. No one else has realized I'm not from this world but you. But that didn't answer my original question in the game. It seems like you lost Heizou, no secrets for you."

Stopping at the end of the stairs Heizou looks at you seriously.

"I really hate leaving mysteries unsolved."

"Then you'll just have to handle me being the mystery left unsolved."

"What if I just took your mask off right now? We both know I'd catch you even if you tried to run. Or better yet I could arrest you for any stupid reason just to take it off."

You can't stop the laughter that bubbles up inside you. You wipe the moisture from your eyes as your laughter turns to giggles. The main reason you were okay with traveling with Heizou despite his intense need to solve mysteries is because...

"That would utterly destroy your pride. I know that you dislike fighting, that the moment you're forced into combat while solving a mystery is when you feel like you lost. You take so much pride in becoming a detective that having to resort to force would be a low you'd never stoop down to reach."

He turns away with a relaxed stance. His head angled to the ground with a nostalgic smile.

"Guess you must have found out some of my private information through the creator. But you're right, I would never do that."

It's quiet as you two resume walking to the inspection tent. Ah crap, does the fan work as an ID for you too?

There's no line due to how late it is but there is a familiar person.

"Sara?"

She turns away from the inspector and looks at you with some confusion. The sight of Heizou next to you, so close to you, makes her frown.

"Y/N, a pleasure to see you again. I can only assume that you are leaving under the creator's orders but what are you doing with Shikanoin?"

"But didn't you ask him to check up on me?"

...That little shit.

Sara glares at Heizou as you mentally put the pieces together. Sara sees Heizou as someone irresponsible. There's a very low chance of her entrusting someone connected to the 'creator' like you to him. She would rather do it herself.

Ayato was right when he said that Heizou tends to skip or delegate regular Doushin duties to others. And that's because he has no interest in those jobs. Sara probably knows that full well and would rather avoid that outcome. Plus, Heizou even asked where you arrived on Inazuma even though you already told Sara that you woke up on Ritou.

"Shikanoin, that is not acceptable behavior for a Doushin. What explanation do you have for yourself?"

Sara's stern voice bounces off Heizou who is far too used to it. You didn't bother stepping in. Not only were you curious how he got to know all your previous information, but the sneaky bastard deserved it.

"Madam you really can't blame me for investigating on my own accord. Not only have there been some subtle rumors about a mysterious oracle, but you kept glancing at Y/N during the festival. As Y/N already knows, I listened in on their conversation with the Kamisato Clan for a bit before introducing myself."

"Even still, you know the proper procedures to investigate something. Now that you've already interrogated them, you should leave them be- What are those wounds?"

Sara's exasperated voice turns cold when she looks closer at you and notices the minor cuts on you.

"Were you attacked on the way here? Not only did the oracle get injured but you also investigated them in this state?"

Maybe you should step in now, Sara seems on the verge of throwing him in jail.

"It's fine Sara, some Fatui were trying to kidnap two children from Konda village, so we stepped in. Honestly Heizou did most of the fighting and is the real wounded one."

You smile and finish with an almost proud laugh. "It was impressive how Heizou had me fooled this entire time. I'm not mad at all so don't worry Sara. But thank you for being so worried."

You softly hold Sara's hands and give a grateful squeeze before pulling away. You step past her to talk to the inspector. This was gonna be a nightmare. You don't see the competitive glare Heizou and Sara give each other.

As you are denied exit permission due to your lack of identification, Sara and Heizou step in to help you at the same time. After a few minutes of Sara and Heizou vouching for you as third-party authorizers, you hand over the fan.

That seemed to be enough proof for them to hand you a stack of papers to fill out. You moved the monstrous number of papers to a crate. Paperwork that you had to touch to read before filling out, what a joy.

"I'll be leaving first. The Shogun requires my presence for an important meeting. Shikanoin, I expect you to be at headquarters to finish all the new paperwork you earned after pulling the stunt you did. And Y/N please stay safe on your journey, may the creator guide you."

"Thank you, Sara, good luck at the meeting! Oh, and please tell the Arrataki Gang goodbye for me too!"

Serious as always, she nods her head before leaving. Heizou moves to stand beside you as you start tracing the words to become readable.

"Why are you touching the letters? You didn't recognize or read the words on the temple so how does touching it help?"

"To put it simply I can read the words easier after I touch them. But shouldn't you be on your way too? Don't think I've forgotten how beat up you are. Go see a professional before every medical building closes!"

"Man alive, are you trying to get rid of me so soon? Why I thought we bonded so well over our time together."

You know he's just playing and teasing but the answer you give is sincere.

"I did, I had a lot of fun. Despite how annoying you were at times, I really enjoyed playing around with all the questions and answers. But I would rather suffer through all this paperwork alone then let you stay with me as hurt as you are. So do us both a favor and see a doctor."

His eyes widen for a split second before settling into something calmer and sweeter. Have you truly bonded with him enough for him to let such a pure expression show?

"Since you were so honest with me, I'll go now."

You smile gratefully and are about to voice your goodbye before he pulls you close to him. You stand in a stupor as his chest presses against yours. His whisper is low and earnest.

"It was a pleasure to meet you Y/N. I eagerly await your next visit to Inazuma."

He releases you before walking away smoothly. Robotically you go back to the paperwork and fill it out. It's probably best to not take his words as anything deeper than friendly. Heizou has always been a flirty character, you were nothing special to him… right?

The stars are out by the time the paperwork is handed in and you have permission to leave. Not wanting to look at the identification card they gave you, you stuff it into your bag for later use.

The Alcor is huge, there is only one crew member awake on the deck and you climb the ramp to speak to him.

"Hello, my name is Y/N, this is the Alcor correct? Here is the fan I was told to show as my ticket." You give the fan to him as he stares at it tiredly.

"I never really expected someone to actually bring it at one point. You must be Lord Kamisato's guest of choice. Come in and enter the doors on the right. The voyage itself is 15 hours but taking into account other things, the trip will take a whole day. Go get some rest."

He gives you back the fan, and you nod in thanks. As you walk past him to the right side, a voice calls out to you from the docks. Curiously you go the railing and look down to see Yae there.

You frown in confusion at her appearance. She must have arrived after you put in the paperwork. Surely, she overhears what Heizou said. Even so, the sight of the sly kitsune makes you automatically stressed.

"Catch." Is your only warning before a small box is thrown towards you. Catching it swiftly, you open it to see a mask inside it. It's a gold accented fox mask specifically designed to only cover the top of your face. The shine and lack of marks make it clear how new and expensive it is.

"An apology for bringing up an uncomfortable subject to you in our conversation. The war has affected many people but it's those in your position that suffered in ways others have not. I hope that whenever you come back to Inazuma, you'll have a lighter heart."

You close the box and smile at her with gratitude. It's a perfect mask for that creeping feeling of dread. This is now the second mask you've obtained from stealing. This mask could have been something different for someone who actually suffered due to the war.

Silently you wave at Yae before she leaves without any other words. You watch her form disappear around a corner as whispers asking, "Where is Captain Beidou?" and "Did she drag Kazuha to drink with her again?" roll off you. You can deal with that later.

The walk to an empty room below the deck is a blur. Your few belongings are on the table as you lay on the bed. The Anemoboxer that you killed rises up in your mind like a tide.

They were kidnapping children, that should be enough justification for their death. You don't feel like arguing that point. You also don't feel like thinking on how you'll deal with any future Fatui members either.

Instead, you ponder about the sickle you used that was encased in electro. If you activate other Statues of the Seven, could you unlock other elements?

Those were the only thoughts you allowed yourself to think about as you gradually fell asleep.

Well this took a while. If anything I blame the fight scene and Heizou being flirty. I did use my decently built Heizou and fought that exact squad of Fatui. He defeated two before dying (it was raining) meaning the outcome of that fight isn't off. I'm experimenting with different yandere types and how the interact. I'm sure most people would write Thoma and Gorou acting nice and trying to one up each other by being kinder while keeping their rivarly secrect. But I thought it was funnier if they were outright hostile and were very bad at hiding it. In case anyone is wondering, I will not be writing full on smut. I'm not sure how far I'll take it in terms of stuff like making out but it'll probably never get past a kiss or two. Maybe I'll change my mind but never smut. I'm far too embarrassed for that.

I never realized just how many characters I had to write until I put the tags. I don't want to know how many words it is but it's 13k. Which is honestly pretty good, I was expecting like 15-16k. I'm very glad that I split the chapter. With Fontaine coming close and the trailer out, I'll probably spend more time playing to make up the primogems needed. Maybe more readers will join with the new hype or players will read less due to the new updates idk.

Taglist: @vvyeislazzy, @nikqi, @the-dumber-scaramouche, @etherisy, @yourlocalstranger123, @ra404, @iruiji, @goldenglow149, @haru-tofuu, @lsleepysimpl, @bebobeboben, @yuyuzi-ling, @amidst-the-tempest, @resident-cryptid, @mxd1zzy, @mochicurls21, @nervouseaglelover, @thedevioussmirk, @yumuramma, @kwqsla, @undecidingfate, @ehjane, @game-savvy, @akiramirae, @sielt, @fluffy-koalala, @formacoon, @sxftiebee, @khxii-i, @ursinaw, @chuuya-brainrot, @sweetbills, @kazuchaos, @snowfoxnix, @bluebelony, @conspicuous-mayonnaise, @pencil-of-ashes, @ghostlyintervention, @taiformaifo, @sielt

1K notes · View notes