#they don't manage to go together to form a chapter but i do certainly have scenes

[itstimeforstarwars]

😈

I feel like I shouldn't be encouraging you but I must admit that I have written three pages of Galidraan in the last hour.

[viaoverthemoon]

Behind Closed Doors

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 pt1

Welcome back, Beloved Reader!

IT'S BEEN MONTHS WTFFFFF

Y'all im so sorryyyyy ahhhhh 😭😭 godd where have i been

I'm not even gonna talk your ears off, let's just get right into it!

Somehow, we need to figure out a way to expose the king and make him pay for what he did! But how...? Lady Ada shows her face again! What could she possibly have to say now?!

Let us continue!

☆*: .｡. Behind Closed Doors .｡.:*☆ Chapter 4 pt 1

Medeival!Leon Kennedy X Fem!Reader

Summary: Now knowing the truth, you, Leon, and his personal guard Chris, begin to create a plan to expose the King and Lady Ada Wong to the court in front of the Queen.

Cw: Just fluff and confrontation

READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!

Enjoy! <3

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The feeling of guilt in a person never truly leaves. No matter how the situation may be resolved.

You've seemed to learn that the hard way.

Your eyes never stray from Leon's form as he and Chris shoot ideas back and forth on how to get Lady Ada out of your lives.

Following the horrifying reveal of why Leon had bed Lady Ada, you called for the only other person who knew of the events that took place that night.

Chris had arrived in minutes, relieved that someone he could trust shared the same secret as them.

At first, you'd been very vocal during the conversation. It seemed as if you wanted revenge more than anyone else.

But as the talking went on, you'd fallen silent, staring at Leon as he rebuttals every idea Chris spits out. You watch as his hands wring, his mind deep in thought as he murmurs every answer.

Even though his expression seemed neutral, you could tell he was fearful of messing this up.

One mistake had the potential to cost all of them their heads, a risk he certainly was not willing to take.

Your hand moves underneath the table, reaching to hold his.

He notices your hand instantly, offering a smile of appreciation before flipping his own to hold onto yours. "Chris, let's give this a break."

Taking note of the change of atmosphere in the room, Chris gives a low bow and a small 'Your highness' before stepping out of the room and closing the door behind him.

Now alone, Leon frees his hand to stroke your cheek. "Are you alright?"

You reach up, taking his hand in yours and locking them together, bringing them to your lips. "I'm okay."

He gives you a look. "You don't seem okay."

You ignore him, watching as he takes your intertwined hands and puts them in his lap. "I should be asking you that question, highness."

Leon's face contorts into one of un-comfortability. "You've never called me that before... What plagues your mind, y/n?"

It's your turn to become uncomfortable. You squirm as he watches you, suddenly becoming bashful under his full attention.

"I'm... worried. Leon, even if we do somehow manage to expose the king, what else could we do?" A look of despair crosses your features as your hope dwindles. "He's the king. There's very little we can do to... de-throne him.."

Leon remains quiet, his jaw tight as he absorbs your words. His silence heightens your anxiety. You reach out your hand, holding his warm cheek. "If he tries to retaliate-"

Leon reaches up, placing his hand on top of yours and gripping it with a reassuring strength. "He won't."

Your blurry eyes meet his blazing ones, his body giving off a determined aura. "I'll die before he hurts you."

☆

You're no fool.

It has become increasingly obvious that the servants have noticed the restoration of your and Leon's relationship.

Every time you pass a group of gossiping staff, they all suddenly go quiet and bow before running away.

And as an even bigger sign that everyone knows you've forgiven your betrothed, a knock sounds at your door.

Not knowing who could possibly need you at this late hour, you were quick to hide the pen and scrap of paper you were using, ungracefully shoving them into your vanity drawer before speaking.

"Enter."

Turning toward the doors when they opened, you staggered backward.

The last person you'd expected to come to your chambers, especially after your last encounter, was Lady Ada.

Unaffected by your obvious surprise, Lady Ada curtsied before you. "Your highness."

You recovered quickly, straightening your back and getting to the point. "Lady Ada... To what do I owe the pleasure?"

The red maiden stands fully, immediately dropping her facade and crossing her arms, an amused look on her face. "Let us skip the pleasantries, Your Grace. You know... don't you?"

You grunt but keep your expression mutual. "I've no clue what you are talking about."

"There's no point in acting clueless. You know what the king forced between me and Leon." You feel your pulse rise when she discards the use of Leon's title.

"Mind your tongue-"

"No, I don't think I will."

Your teeth clench, your fists balling as you attempt to reign in your anger. "You forget your place, Lady Ada."

"Actually, I think I remember it quite well," The Lady stalks closer, slowly invading your space until she stands over you. "It is you who forgets my place, princess."

"Excuse me-"

"You heard me." She leans over you, pressing her body against yours. "You may expose His Majesty, but what after that? You want to ruin me? Destroy my reputation? Well, you can try pretty princess, but you will not get far."

You clench your jaw, defiantly looking up at her as she whispers her words, "What exactly are you hoping to accomplish? Please, do tell. I'm very curious."

"I'd rather gamble my last breath than tell you anything I intend to do."

A thick silence falls over the room. The electricity between the two of you emotionally taxing, but you refuse to give in. You'd failed to save the love of your life once.

You will not fail again.

Eventually, Lady Ada sighs before stepping away. "Oh well. Forcing you to tell me what you are planning would annoy me more than help me." She backed away, a condescending smirk on her red lips. "Try as you might, a spoiled little princess like you isn't significant enough to bring down the King."

She reached for the door handle, muttering one last sentence before leaving,

"We'll see who fate picks tomorrow."

The doors to your chamber shut behind her retreating figure.

You finally release the breath you'd been holding.

Tomorrow.

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Ughhh this was way too short :( But it's only part 1 of this chapter. More to come, promise!!

I feel sooo bad that this took as long as it did ;-; I swear, i had no intitnton of taking this long of a break. College was just a little harder than I though it would be 😭

But now im on break fora week and have pretty good motivation. So we'll see how many posts I can squeeze out!

How will part 2 go? Will the group be successful in exposing the king? Who were you writing to? What exactly is Lady Ada's real role in all this?

Thank you for your patience!

See you next part!

-Via💕

[aishangotome]

Alfons Sylvatica: Chapter 11

Chapter 10 Premium Story

♡———♡

In the end, after getting soaked in the shower, we stood before a different kind of mess – our clothes.

Alfons: "Don't you hate the thought of putting these back on?"

Persuaded by his words, we spent the night in that room, naked.

-

By morning, new clothes had been delivered, somehow arranged overnight.

While dodging Alfons' mischievous hands that tried to play another prank, I got dressed, and we returned to the castle.

Alfons: So, how was it?

Kate: Huh?

Alfons: Did I look like I was having fun while indulging in pleasure with you?

Kate: ......What!?

The direct question made my face flush instantly.

All I could recall were his sighs, his lips, the feeling of our skin rubbing together......

Kate: I-I couldn't tell.

Alfons: That's a shame. Then we'll have to do a lot more naughty things.

Kate: What......!

Alfons: Well then......I'm going to sleep now. I won't wake up until tonight, so feel free to do as you please, my exclusive Fairytale Keeper.

Alfons: You must be sleep-deprived too. Why don't you get some rest?

As always, Alfons left me abruptly.

(...Alfons' goodbyes are always so one-sided.)

I felt like I wouldn't be surprised if he disappeared like a phantom tomorrow.

That's how much Alfons seems unconnected to anything.

Not to his partying friends, not to Crown – and certainly not to me, whom he just met.

(...I feel like I shouldn't dwell on Alfons' "truth" any longer.)

It would only lead to pain.

That certain premonition suppressed the sweet ache that had sprouted in the depths of my chest.

(Just like Alfons said – "It's a relationship that won't last even a month.")

(If I let my heart be captured too...)

Kate: ......It will only hurt.

The words I coughed out to convince myself made my chest tighten more than I expected.

Pretending not to notice my wounded heart, I quickened my pace.

(It's okay. I... I don't like Alfons.)

-

Roger: ...Didn't you say you were going to bed?

Roger entered just as Alfons finished his first glass in one gulp.

Alfons: ...Eavesdropping on other people's conversations, as always, what an unpleasant ability.

Roger: I just happened to overhear it while passing by. I didn't use my ability to listen in.

Alfons, still frowning in displeasure, glanced at Roger's hand.

Alfons: Beer in the afternoon? A doctor neglecting his health is deplorable.

Roger: I was up all night. It's better than you drinking gin in the afternoon.

Roger lightly shook his beer mug and poured it down his throat.

After a satisfied gulp, he looked at Alfons again.

Roger: ...So, how is it? You like Kate, don't you?

Alfons: Of course.

Alfons: A straight, pure robin who has fallen into a den of evil and has never done anything wrong...

Alfons: Such an interesting toy is hard to come by.

Roger: ...Really?

At the suggestive tone, Alfons narrowed his eyes sharply.

Alfons: ...What?

Roger: It doesn't look like you're just interested in that kind of formal amusement anymore.

Roger: Don't you just simply like her?

Alfons: Is that a medical opinion? Unfortunately, you're wrong.

Alfons: I don't have the capacity to love.

Roger: Is that so? She seems to like you.

Alfons: Haha! Of course she does.

Alfons: This relationship is just a one-month entertainment.

Alfons: Even without love, it's bound to be fun.

Roger: ...Then don't let her get too serious.

Roger: Perhaps this is the fine line where you can look back and say, "That was a bad form of entertainment."

Alfons: ...Ha.

It was probably the most parched sigh he had ever let out.

Alfons: Since when did you become such a good person?

-

The day after returning with Alfons, there was a meeting to share the progress of our mission.

It seems they had been investigating the commonalities between the workhouse manager who led the gang of thugs and the orphanage manager where the bodies were first found. The name of a certain gentleman's club came up.

Kate: A gentleman's club... It's a members-only social club where only those recognized among the upper class can join, right?

William: Yes. It has accommodations, restaurants, bars, libraries... all of which are exclusive to members.

William: Important figures from various fields gather there to test each other and build connections.

Victor: It's highly likely that one of those clubs is directing the massacre of the poor happening in the East End right now.

("Purification"...?)

London, with its burgeoning population, has a stark divide between rich and poor.

Hunger leads to conflict, and conflict leads to tragic events.

Having caught a glimpse of the darkness of this city that makes headlines, some people brandish eugenic ideas, claiming that "the poor are born criminals."

(But... no one deserves to be killed just for living.)

People in the slums, fleeing in terror as knives are indiscriminately wielded.

People clinging to the illusion of Alfons.

The images that surfaced in my mind tightened my chest.

(If they are indiscriminately killing innocent people like that... and think of it as "purification"...)

(...That's cruel arrogance.)

**flashback to dining room**

Alfons: There are children in this world who die without anyone knowing.

Alfons: And there are people who think of it as nothing more than clearing away bothersome garbage that has piled up on the street corner.

**end of flashback**

(...Alfons has known about the existence of such people long before this incident occurred.)

(Has he lived in a place where he could feel it firsthand?)

I was afraid to face the cruel incident happening in the East End.

(But now I want to face it properly...)

That feeling welled up in my chest.

Victor: To catch the mastermind, we need to infiltrate the 'Purification' club... but it's not easy to get in there.

Victor: Most gentlemen's clubs are exclusive, and they'll be even more vigilant since they have something to hide.

William: ...So, Alfons, we'd like to ask you to infiltrate.

(...!)

Alfons: Leave it to me. I'm good at deceiving people and infiltrating.

Despite the dangerous mission of venturing into enemy territory, Alfons accepted with a nonchalant smile.

(If it's Alfons' mission... then I too–)

(As his exclusive "Fairytale Keeper," I have to see it through to the end this time and record it.)

Alfons: Oh... by the way, what about Kate?

William: If she's your "exclusive Fairytale Keeper," you'll have no choice but to take her along.

Kate: ...Yes.

For a moment, the atrocities I had witnessed at the "Purification" club flashed through my mind, and fear almost crept up from my feet, but I scolded my weak self and raised my face.

Kate: Um, how do we get into the gentleman's club? Women aren't allowed, are they...?

William: With Alfons' ability,

William: It's easy to make them believe that non-members are members, or that women are men.

Kate: ! I see...

Alfons: You don't have to push yourself, Kate.

The voice came from right behind my ear.

Even without turning around, I could sense Alfons' presence beside me, his lips close as he chuckled.

Alfons: If you're scared, you can just kill time at a nearby cafe and we'll match our stories later.

---CHOICES---

I don't want to run away

I have a responsibility

I want to help

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

Kate: This time, I don't want to run away. I'll be careful not to cause any more trouble, so please...

Kate: Let me go with you.

Alfons: It seems you are prepared to face death.

William: Haha, you've become quite a brave robin, haven't you?

Kate: Alfons, I'm counting on you.

Alfons: ...Goodness, you're really something else, aren't you?

His troubled, exasperated, yet gentle smile made my heart leap–

(I don't like him, I don't like him.)

I chanted like a mantra, pushing away the sweet emotions that welled up inside me.

Alfons: It can't be helped, then. I'll take you with me.

Alfons: It'll be fun, infiltrating enemy territory with just the two of us.

Alfons: I'm already excited to see what kind of trouble we'll get into.

And then, on a moonless night--.

-

(...We really got in easily.)

At the reception, Alfons used his ability, and we sneaked into the Purification Club's members-only hotel as members ourselves.

Elbert and Roger were waiting outside in case anything happened inside.

Kate: Let's go, Alfons.

As I stepped forward with determination, I felt a light tap on my shoulder...

Alfons: You look good in menswear, Kate.

Kate: !

He whispered in my ear teasingly.

Kate: Wh-What are you doing...?

I was wearing a pantsuit with a heavy overcoat to hide my figure.

I had also tied my long hair, which couldn't be completely hidden by the hat, and tucked it into my coat.

If anyone who wasn't under his ability realized I was a woman, the plan would be ruined.

(If I scream or anything, they might realize I'm a woman!)

Alfons: Hehe... you were so tense, I thought I'd loosen you up.

Kate: That's too dangerous!

It seems the word "tension" doesn't exist in his dictionary.

Kate: You do understand why we're here, right?

Alfons: Yes. To confirm that this club is behind the series of incidents. It would be best if we could identify the ringleader as well.

Alfons: If we can get evidence of them giving specific instructions for the incidents, we can mobilize the police.

Alfons: If we don't have that kind of evidence, we'll have to give up on the orthodox extermination, and...

Alfons: ...The Crown will have to carry out a bloody judgment, I suppose.

Kate: If you understand, then good!

I couldn't argue when he explained the plan so smoothly.

Seeing me like that, he narrowed his eyes in amusement and straightened his posture.

Alfons: Well then, let's get started--

Alfons: Shall we have a drink?

Kate: What? We're on a mission!

When I hurriedly stopped him as he headed towards the bar lounge, he turned around with a smile.

Alfons: Shh... it's for the mission, of course.

Alfons: Whether it's a slum like a garbage dump or a tidy social circle, humans have common habits.

Kate: Habits...?

Alfons: Yes. People get loose-lipped when they drink.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Chapter 12

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[cyberpxnk]

until the moon and stars fall | jeong yunho

♡ pairing: yunho x chubby!reader ♡ chapters: 1 out of 1 ♡ word count: 2.3k ♡ genre: nonidol! au, comfort/hurt, fluff, established relationship

♡ synopsis: your bad day at work takes a turn for the worse but despite it all, jeong yunho never fails to be there for you.

♡ warnings/tags: chubby!reader, no gendered terms for reader, a lil self indulgent, cussing, body/fat shaming, mentions of body image, bullying, minor kissing, maybe a lil cliche but bear w/ me

♡ author’s note:  this one is for all my chubby babes and customer service workers !! i've never rly written comfort before..,,.. so i hope it's like... ok for y'all :sweating_emoji: maybe i was a lil self indulgent on this one, but i hope u all enjoy it !!

The big fat zero in your face taunted you, reminding you of the awful day you have to endure for another hour. It wasn't often that you received no tip for your services, but the gods really rained down on you today, offering little sympathy.

Being a restaurant worker was tough shit, just as every other food industry and customer service job was. You hate it, really, but it was good money for a broke college student like yourself. 

Between classes, there were days you managed to muster up your feigned smile of politeness to customers, serving them while dealing with their all too present bullshit attitude. Of course, not all your patrons were so unlovely but today... Man.

Two hours in and you're ready to rip off your apron and book it home. You're not sure what's going on with you, but clearly nothing good. Already having spilled several drinks and messing up an order, you know it's not your day.

Even the zero tip didn't surprise you at this point. What did matter is that you had to make it through the rest of your ungodly shift and just get the hell out of there. Maybe you would look for a new job or something, anything to sate your present worries. 

What seemed worst of all was the ceaseless teasing that came from your coworker. She's the new girl, having barely worked with you, yet she was pompous and held herself with an air of arrogance as if you were someone of lowly status and she, royalty. 

Unlike yourself, she radiated haughtiness and garnered attention from all types of people. You're not sure why she even worked as a server, but you suppose her pretty looks helped her out quite a bit. If not for her atrocious attitude hidden beneath her sickening saccharine smile, perhaps you would be swayed too. 

"Didn't get tipped, porky? Serves you right for messing up so much today." 

Yeah, there it was. Cliche beautiful and slender girl poking fun at her less than fortunate chubby coworker. Let's get one thing straight though, you don't hate yourself or your body. But her? That's a different story. Well, she certainly made it a little harder not to be self conscious, even if you tried your best on most days. 

"Mhm," is all you manage back to her, lips pulled tight in a grimace as you continue to go about your work. Dealing with her was just another thing upon the pile of shit you didn’t have the energy for. 

And you don’t particularly enjoy being reminded of how your uniform stretched uncomfortably over your larger frame or how your thick thighs often chafed together, holes forming in the fabric between your legs, which resulted in you buying way too many new pairs of work pants. Ugh. 

Your coworker did enough complaining for the both of you, oftentimes taking a tone of mockery. On more than one occasion, you could recall her poking at your stomach in disgust before asking something along the lines of, "how do you even fit in the uniform? Did you have to order those rags off a plus size website?" 

Yeah, in fact you did but that's irrelevant! You wonder when a grown woman like herself would get tired of teasing you, but it's been months and she's still going strong. 

You can deal with it. You hope. Just one more hour, just one more hour — one more hellish hour and maybe you'll quit. 

Another fifty minutes of waiting tables and withholding your anger, you know you're at the homestretch. As you balance a tray of dirty dishes, you mosey your way over to the back when you suddenly find yourself stumbling, barely catching how your coworker stuck her foot out before you. 

No, no, no! What the hell kind of movie-esque moment was this? Surely enough, you trip over her leg and crumple to the ground, food and plates scattering messily along the floor. 

The sound of her obnoxious laughter fills the air, growing louder in volume as she cackles, throwing her head back in a fit of malevolent glee. 

"Oh my god! Can you do anything right, fatso?" 

A rush of emotions and you're on your feet, wiping away some of the food remnants from your uniform. Hot anger is flooding through you and you're visibly seething. 

"What is your issue, bitch?" You've held your tongue for too long and your eyes are welling up with tears, though you're unsure if it's from the unbridled rage or the overwhelming flood of negative feelings you're experiencing. 

"Your fat ass is my issue! I hate seeing you at work. Nobody wants you here. Even the customers don't tip you because they lose their appetite after they see they're being waited on by a whale!" 

The silence that falls over the restaurant is unsettling, tension palpable as nobody utters a word, hers still ringing in your ears. Even your manager who peers from behind the kitchen keeps quiet, unsure of how to handle the escalating situation. 

Not that they were very helpful anyway, always allowing your coworker to have her way — insisting that she was just "joking" and that she didn't mean any harm. Ha, pretty privilege. 

It was fine though. You had enough. This was the last straw and you would be sure to show them that you wouldn't take her shit any longer. You didn't deserve it. 

In your flurry of emotions, what you fail to see is your boyfriend hovering near the front door. Clutched in his hands, he holds a paper cup filled with a latte and the other is a crumpled paper baggie with your favorite pastry. 

Jeong Yunho was truly the epitome of sweet. Even after his long shifts as a barista, he never failed to make time for you. It was different today though. Something in the winds whispered to him that day, the energy unnerving as his stomach churned nervously during the last few hours on the clock. 

Not wanting to ignore the feeling, he was determined to see you. If whatever gods or deities were compelling him to check up on his partner today, then that's just what he would do. 

What he didn't expect to find was his said lover covered in slop, hair astray and tears threatening to fall from your eyes. If not for the last semblance of his senses steadying him, he would have stomped over in a fit of fury. 

Yunho nearly did though, hands just barely unclenching the items he held. The scene unfolding before him... he should have stopped it, yet he couldn't will himself. The determined look in your eyes advised him otherwise.

It was clear that you had snapped. Despite your current state of disarray, you held up your head high and pressed your pointer finger to your coworker's chest, practically spitting out your next words, venom dripping with each syllable. 

"You must get some sick sense of pleasure tearing other people down," you stepped forward and she stumbled back, eyes wide with bewilderment, "you're projecting pretty hard."

"Excuse m-" you interrupted her, moving another stride forward until she was cornered to the wall. 

"You must hate yourself so much that you need to resort to shitty high school bullying tactics to feel better about yourself. I feel sorry for you." 

Watching as you defend yourself, Yunho feels his chest swell with pride yet it pained him knowing you had been handling this problem all alone and he didn't know for how long. Several times in passing, you had mentioned your troublesome colleague to him but he never realized how awful to an extent it was.

"I'm done here, honestly. I'm sick of your attitude and I'm sick of management's negligence." You untie your apron and toss it at her face, watching as she fumbles slightly whilst trying to catch the fabric.

She sputters in response, her face twisting with rage as she points an accusing finger to you. 

"Even if you leave here, you'll never be liked and loved. Not with that disgusting body of yours. Do us all a favor and hit the gym after you're gone."

It is Yunho's turn to intervene as he steps closer to you all, protectively hooking one arm around your side. The gifts he previously held were long forgotten, abandoned at some table in favor of defending you. 

His entrance seems to startle everyone, including yourself as you jump slightly before you reach over, curling into the familiarity of his hold. The man squeezes you once, pressing a kiss to the side of your head.

You don't know how long he's been standing there, but you can see his gaze narrowed in a sharp glare. There's a fire alight in his eyes, wisps of anger that you rarely find on your gentle boyfriend's features. The heart shaped lips you're so used to seeing upturned are pulled taut in a line, displeasure clear upon his face. 

"You're wrong. It's you who will never feel true love. Not with that nasty, ugly heart of yours." There's a sharp edge to his voice, steely and void of any remorse. You know he wants to say more with how his jaw clenches yet he turns you both around with haste and leads you toward the exit without another sound.

As you both walk out in silence, his hold drops from your waist and his hand is reaching for yours, fingers intertwining with a gentle weave. It's only seconds later before he's helping you into his car, buckling you in before he gets in the opposite side and begins driving home.

No words are exchanged, a quiet stillness in the air. Though he has one hand on the wheel, the other still grips yours as you idly play with his fingers. You try to distract yourself from the earlier events, tracing gentle shapes along his knuckles. 

It's only until you're back within the safety of your shared home do the tears you've withheld finally drip down your cheeks. You sniffle once and then twice before you're sobbing. 

Yunho's arms around you are immediate, holding you against his frame as he gently rocks you within the security of his protective embrace.

His soft whispers of reassurance and comfort fill your ears as you soak through his shirt with your tears. He clutches you tighter, never letting go even as your cries begin to wane.  Minutes pass, and you're unsure of how long you're standing there before you sniffle quietly and reluctantly pull yourself from his chest.

When you finally look to meet his eyes, your breath catches in your throat. Yunho looks at you painstakingly, his gaze so tender that you practically melt in his arms. Your lip quivers at the sight.

"I love you," he whispers so faintly that you barely hear him. The warmth of his affections flood you, shaking your very heart to the core. Though he need not say more than those three things, he relents. 

"You're everything to me..." He speaks breathlessly, his lips repeatedly finding yours between sweet and inaudible murmurs. You're sinking into his touch, blinking back the wetness in your eyes as his loving touches ghost along the soft curves of your body.  

"Your size doesn't matter and it will never dictate how you should be loved. It doesn't make you any less attractive, any less desirable, any less lovable, any less you." 

The tears begin to form in your eyes again, and you're unable to stop the steady stream of waterworks as your heart trembles from his admission. Your hands grasp his shirt and you open your mouth, though no sound follows.

"Jagiya..." Your eyes flutter as his breath fans over your face, his lips brushing away each tear as they fall.

You know there aren't enough words to express how he looks to you in adoration, how delicately he reaches to cup your tear stained cheeks, how he kisses you as if you're so fragile you may break from his dainty touches. 

"The love I have for you seeps from my soul. I never want to waste a minute without loving you to the fullest." 

There is a brief pause as he rests his forehead to yours, his palms still clutching your face with the utmost care. 

"To me, you are ethereal. To me, you are divine. To me, you are perfect. If I am without you, then I would travel the stars just to see you." 

His proclamation strikes your soul so deeply that you can't help the way your heart beats readily, nearly bursting from your rib cage. He describes you as if you were of the heavens and you almost feel unworthy of his affections, yet you can't help but to believe the sincerity of his words.

The feeling of his unyielding passion is all it takes for another wave of tears and he's no sooner repeating his actions, kissing away each drop that slips from your eyes. 

"I love you so much," you say, unable to elicit anything more than just that between your soft cries. Your voice trembles with such emotion that Yunho understands you needn't say more. 

With your hand grasping his, you lay it over your chest and allow him to feel your heartbeat, showing him just how much his radiance and purity of love stirs you so.  

Yunho mirrors your action, and you feel his pulse steady to your palm. The lull of his essence roots you and grounds you to the very earth. 

Until the stars and moon fell from the sky, just as he cherished you, you would cherish him tenfold. Just as he loved you, you would love him eternally.

[shads-shipposts]

I love how 2025 decided to welcome me by smacking me with the first case of the flu I've ever had. But that ain't gonna stop me (even if it's annoying the piss outta me).

We're back with Allan and co, who are also gifted a headache in the form of Shadow. This will be the last "slow" chapter for a few, as things get very chaotic very quick in chapter 3.

Thanks again for reading! As always, comments and reblogs are much appreciated. Also, woe to me for forgetting, but a big thanks to @showtimeatfreddys for being the beta reader for this fic. Y'all can thank them for act 1 going from 10 to 20 chapters, as they pointed out problem areas and plot holes so I could fix them before posting <3

Beginning: Here Previous: Here Next: Jan 8th Ao3 Version: Here

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Allan groaned, dragging a hand down his face.

He already had enough to deal with that morning, then the boss just had to come by and talk to him as if he were a child. Telling him things he already knew and warning him about the consequences for failure... which he also already knew.

How stupid did he really think Allan to be?

Did he really believe that Allan managed to gain control of the ship and crew by being an idiot?

He knew that damn FBI agent was trouble, and he knew not to give him any reason to come snooping aboard the ship. As for the warnings about keeping an eye on his crew lest one get cold feet, nearly all were too loyal to Allan to betray him and those who weren't as steadfast knew what fate awaited them if they stepped out of line and tried to play hero.

Tom slipped back inside the dayroom, sympathy knitting his brow. "You alright?"

"Don't know who that peacock thinks I am," Allan grumbled.

"What'd he say?"

"Oh, the usual." Allan leaned back on the couch, letting his head rest against the wall as he closed his eyes. "Keep an eye out for the agent, keep an eye on the crew, and don't forget I'm owned body and soul and should I think about double crossin' him he'll see to it I spend the rest of my miserable days rottin' in a cell."

Tom groaned. "Ugh, I really hate that man."

Allan pinched the bridge of his nose. "I really hope he finds that wretched model ship he's goin' on about so we can get the hell out of here tonight."

"What's a model ship got to do with treasure anyway?"

"He thinks it will have a scroll, just like his does, and he can match them together."

"If he's wrong?"

"Either way, we're gettin' paid. One just has a bigger payday at the end." Allan shook his head. "For once, I'd like whoever takes over this rust-bucket to be normal. Is that too much to ask?"

"Might be."

Allan looked at the door as a new voice sounded. John Bailey stood just outside, a weird look on his face.

Allan groaned. "What is it now, Johnny?"

"May want to come see this," Johnny said, gesturing down the hall with a thumb. "We have a visitor. An American."

"Fuck me," Allan snapped, rolling his eyes. "That agent's back?"

"Not... exactly."

Allan exchanged a glance with Tom, curiosity creeping over the anger. "Interpol?"

"I honestly have no idea. He's a pretty lousy undercover agent if so."

Interest piqued, Allan pushed himself to his feet and settled his cap back on his head. "Show me."

The moment he stepped into the doorway of the lower gangplank, the hair caught Allan's eye. A dark reddish-purple, falling just to the top of broad shoulders on an otherwise fairly small frame. At least, small compared to the men moving around on the docks. He, or she, looked so out of place it was almost hilarious, sitting cross legged atop a crate scribbling furiously in a sketchbook.

"That's 'im," Johnny said. "Told 'im to sit there to sketch."

"He's certainly focused on it," Allan replied, keeping his eyes on the kid. He could see them, but they couldn't easily see him unless they looked hard. Considering how fervently they focused on sketching, he doubted they even knew they were being watched.

The odd sight of someone sketching wasn't exactly concerning, but the fact they frequently looked at the Karaboudjan was.

Surely, they couldn't be a reporter or journalist. Even from this distance, Allan wouldn't put them over twenty. Maybe over eighteen. Softer features didn't exactly help discern their age, or even their gender.

Then again, that ginger nuisance Allan and his men ran across near Egypt also didn't look like a journalist but had caused a world of hurt for Allan's operations. Looks could be incredibly deceiving.

"He say why he was around?"

"Apparently likes cargo ships and wanted to sketch one."

"That's it?"

"I came to get you soon as I could, so didn't really chat too long."

Allan grunted in acknowledgment, studying the kid's face as they looked up to get another reference of the ship. Just androgynous enough to fool someone at a first glance, Allan found himself leaning towards a woman. Late teens, not super exposed to hard labor outdoors judging by the lighter skin. But no stranger to physical activity, as while her arms weren't overly muscular they still had a definition to them found not through time in the gym but through a physically demanding sport. Coupled with her brazen trip to the docks by herself, signaling self assurance in her ability to defend herself, Allan would wager she had some form of martial arts under her belt.

Someone not to overestimate...

Wait.

Allan squinted, risking a step closer.

He couldn't be sure from this distance, but the kid almost looked... familiar? The features, the build, the length of the hair...

Maybe...

No.

Surely not.

His dream that morning was making him paranoid, that was all. It was embarrassing really, that a simple nightmare had him so rattled he saw Scarlett's face everywhere now.

Yet his eyes remained trained on the kid.

Now that he'd realized the similarities, Allan felt like he stared at Scarlett's doppelgänger minus the less than human attributes.

Whoever this kid was, he couldn't let her walk away without a few... harmless questions.

It was because of her clear fascination and focus on the ship, nothing more. He just needed... needed to keep an eye out. The FBI and Interpol could have spies everywhere.

It was purely business.

It wasn't personal.

It wasn't dire.

It wasn't Scarlett.

"Good work, Johnny," Allan murmured. "I'll handle it. As you were."

Johnny dipped his head to Allan and headed back inside, only to be replaced by another member of Allan's crew.

Brawny with broad shoulders and a long torso, Neil Irwin wiped some sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand. "Mornin', boss."

Allan didn't look away from the American. "Mornin'."

"See somethin'?"

Allan dipped his head towards the kid. "We got a watcher."

"Yeah, she's been there since I started unloadin'."

Allan glanced at him. "Talk to 'er?"

Neil shook his head. "Didn't see a need to. She's outta the way, and is mindin' 'er business. Ain't botherin' no one."

Allan turned his attention back to the kid. "Right."

"Should I have?" Neil asked.

"Not sure yet," Allan replied slowly.

And he hated that he wasn't. Uncertainty could put you at risk to be blindsided, and blindsides were a death sentence in Allan's line of work. Especially right now.

"Nice hair, though," Neil commented with a small laugh. "Reminds me of my sister, she always liked dyein' 'er hair fancy colors."

Tom tilted his head as he watched her scribble. "Purple, though? Bit anachronistic, don't ya think?"

Neil glanced at Tom and elbowed him with a sly grin. "Didn't think you could manage big words like that, Tommy."

Tom glared at him, clearly fighting down a smile of his own. "Piss off," he growled, shoving Neil.

"Stow it," Allan snapped as the pair started going for headlocks and rib shots.

"What's wrong?" Tom asked, smacking Neil's hat off in one last blow.

Tom, you well-meaning but unobservant idiot.

"Look at 'er face."

Tom gave him an odd look, but peered across the docks. "Is there... somethin' I'm lookin' for?"

Fuck's sake.

"She doesn't remind you of Scarlett?"

Tom's eyes widened. "Oh... shit, yeah. I see it now," he murmured.

"Wait," Neil exclaimed. "Scarlett was real?!"

Allan smacked his arm. "Keep your voice down!"

Neil winced. "Sorry. Just... I thought she was just a drunken ramblin'."

"How'd you hear of her?"

Neil rubbed the back of his neck. "Er, Harry. Got pissed one night and went on and on about this alien sheila with a bloody tail of all things."

"Oh, she had more than a tail," Allan muttered, not at all surprised that Harry Hobbs was the one to tell Neil.

Allan only allowed him to drink on the ship, away from outsiders, because it was a very risky gamble what would come out of his mouth. Could be professions of love to the crew, could be a challenge to the mermaid figurehead in the card room, or it could be details about his rather adventurous port endeavors that no one wanted to hear.

"He mentioned shapeshiftin' and ice powers, too, but I didn't believe 'im since he's said crazier things." Neil shook his head in disbelief. "But you're sayin' she's real? Not some drunken hallucination Harry saw?"

"Either she was real, or the entire ship had mass psychosis."

Neil looked over at the kid again. "Damn... aliens are real," he rasped, then looked up. "She come from space? How the hell she end up on the ship?"

Allan wished he knew the answer to the first question. At one time, he felt like he did. He was fairly certain Alphians weren't on Earth through technological means, what little information he could recall about their history pointing to migration through magical portals.

But at least he could answer the second.

"We were taken over by a group of mercs, who first employed our help to hunt down one of their fugitives. Turns out they didn't play fair, and ordered us to stop at a small-town pier in the middle of nowhere near the coast of Virginia in the states. More and more mercs joined them, and it really looked like they planned to off us."

"Sounds bleak."

"It was. Then Scarlett showed up. She had two allies with 'er, but one joined the mercs and the other was killed by 'em to try and threaten Scarlett. She didn't take kindly to it, and came to me to ask permission to kill the merc who killed her friend."

"An alien with supernatural powers asked permission?"

"She feared me, apparently." Allan then snorted. "Not enough to not knock me out and go after the merc when I said no."

"What happened after that?"

"That's just it," Allan grumbled. "Everything goes fuzzy after that. Only one man has any more memory of Scarlett after me."

"Who?"

"Me," Tom said. "I saw 'er leave the ship and went after 'er, but one of the mercs found me." He ran his fingers over the jagged scar on his cheek. "Almost did me in, but Scarlett saved me. She got 'urt in the process, though. Tried gettin' 'er back to the ship, but... it all goes fuzzy for me too."

"Let me... get this straight," Neil said slowly. "The ship was taken over by mercs, you had the luck of comin' across a supernatural alien who initially helped but turned against you, then the memory of 'er just... ends. No leads, nothin'?"

"She didn't betray us!" Tom protested. "She just... went against Allan's orders. She was pretty bent on revenge for her friend's death."

"But you haven't been able to track 'er down since then?"

"I haven't been able to track down information on her damn species, let alone Scarlett herself," Allan grumbled.

"She kinda just vanished without a trace," Tom added. "We're still not exactly sure what all happened those few days she was 'round 'ere."

"And you think the sketcher is her?"

Allan shook his head. "Not a chance. Scarlett had some... unmistakable traits. But this kid looks very similar otherwise."

"No offense, boss," Neil said slowly. "But is that the only reason you're so fixated on this kid? A similar appearance?"

"Don't talk to me like I'm an idiot," Allan growled.

"I'm not," Neil said, unshaken by the anger in Allan's tone. "But it still sounds like some fever dream."

"I'm not the only one who remembers 'er, Neil."

"It's strange, I won't lie," Neil said. "And I'm certainly not sayin' it didn't happen." He looked towards the kid again. "But I draw the line at goin' after people who are mindin' their business."

He had a point, Allan had to admit. While Allan didn't look down on collateral damage for the same reason Neil did, he still didn't care for it. Collateral damage could get the wrong people involved, people who otherwise would have been content to look the other way until they were personally affected.

This kid, whoever she was, most likely wasn't any sort of undercover rat. Undercover agents sought to blend in, lay low, and stay on the outskirts. The big guns would be brazen and demand to inspect the ship, bringing a large force with them. She was... somewhere in the middle. Not challenging anyone, but not hiding either.

She clearly didn't know anything of the illegal dealings carried out on the ship.

Getting this kid involved could horribly backfire on Allan and his men, and the last thing they needed at the moment was more heat.

Maybe it was better to just leave her be. He should be focusing on the current job, not living in the past chasing ghosts.

Making a scene would only land him in hot water with more entities than he cared to take on at once.

"Oh, almost forgot," Johnny said, joining them again. "Got a name from 'im."

"Her," Tom corrected.

"Her?" Johnny echoed. "You sure?"

"No," Allan said before Tom could reply. "What was the name?"

"Shadow."

Allan's heart damn near stopped, his eyes flying wide as he looked at Tom.

No way. There was absolutely no way this was just a coincidence.

The dream, the Alphian on the docks, the kid's appearance, her interest in the Karaboudjan, her fucking name even...

This kid had a connection to Scarlett. Allan wouldn't even entertain the idea she did not any more.

The only question was how.

"What?" Neil said. "Why's that matter?"

"Shadow... was the name Scarlett first used," Tom croaked. "When she was tryin' to conceal 'er identity."

"That does it," Allan said. "I'm havin' a talk with that kid."

Tom looked at him, somewhat alarmed. "What if she bolts?" He gestured to the both of them. "We're not exactly the most friendly lookin'. Al, we can't risk that."

"Good point," Allan muttered, then turned to Neil. "Go try and talk to 'er."

Neil wasn't exactly any less physically imposing than Allan or Tom, but him alone may not be as threatening.

Neil looked less than thrilled with the order. "Just talkin', right?"

"Not gettin' cold feet, are you?" Allan asked, tone low.

Neil stood his ground. "No. I know what I signed up for, though, and one of the rules was no women or kids."

Allan knew damn well what the rules were; he implemented them himself.

"Bloody hell, we're not hurtin' 'er," Allan retorted. "All I need you to do is keep 'er distracted so we can get close. If she likes cargo ships like she said, she shouldn't mind talkin' to a man who works on one. No threats, just talk to 'er."

"And if she runs?"

It pained Allan, but he said, "Let 'er. Do not make a scene."

"Not... gonna do anythin' to 'er, right boss?" Neil asked, a new hardness to his tone.

"No, she's not in any danger. How many times do I need to say that?" Allan demanded, straining to keep his volume low so he didn't alert Shadow. "I just have questions for 'er."

Neil still didn't seem convinced.

"Just go," Allan ordered.

Neil hesitated, then headed for Shadow.

As Neil left, Allan turned to Tom. "Alert the boys. Get 'em to block the exits, but discreetly. Wait for my word, this could be nothin'."

"Thought we weren't makin' a scene?"

"That's why we block the kid's escape. Once she's surrounded, I can control the situation better."

"What if she notices and runs before they can close in?"

"If there's a gap, let 'er through. But once the circle closes, don't let 'er out.

Tom nodded and left to carry out the order.

Allan turned back to watch the kid, eyes narrowed.

Nothing personal.

I need answers.

And you're not goin' anywhere until I get them.

[dxncingwithastrxnger]

EVERYTHING TRISLANCE RN

OKAY THIS IS GONNA BE A LONG ASS POST CAUSE IMMA GIVE YOU SNEAK PEEKS OF EACH ONE THAT HAS STUFF WRITTEN ALREADY, TOO

First one: [pretty, pretty please]

[He hears a slight creak of the floor and whips around, his heterochromatic eyes meeting bright red ones and he instantly relaxes, sagging in on himself. In the presence of the other boy, he felt ashamed of himself. If Lance had a demon form, he would never lose control the way that I do, Tristan thought to himself glumly as he dropped his eyes down to the floor, gritting his teeth.

"What is with you today?" Lance speaks up sternly. Tristan continues his inspection of the floor, but he hears the slight tunk as Lance closes the door to his bed chambers and the quiet wisps of fabric brushing together as he makes his way towards him.

"I don't know what you're talking about." Tristan argues weakly, both of them knowing it's a complete lie. Lance reaches for his hand and Tristan flinches away from him. I don't deserve his touch. He should be disgusted by me, just like everyone else.

Lance hesitates then, Tristan can tell. His body goes still, his breath hitches, and he swallows. Tristan still isn't looking at him, but his other senses have learned to pick up on his every move and action just as well as his eyesight by this point. He knows what's coming. He's about to be scolded for his pathetic slip-up. This is the first time they've managed to actually talk right after a loss of his control, so Lance has never gotten to truly lecture him about it before, but Tristan knows that he wants to. He's made that quite clear through snippy comments and stern remarks thrown about in conversation between them whenever the topic allows. Tristan is certain that he knows exactly what Lance is going to say to him, so he's very surprised by the question he hears spoken softly into the room.

"...Are you afraid of me?" Lance asks Tristan. His voice is wobbly and quiet, as if the question itself is enough to make him completely crumble into tiny pieces. Tristan's head shoots up immediately upon processing what Lance was asking him. He thinks I'm afraid of him? Seriously?]

So, about this one!!! Basically Tris has one of his many mental breakdowns and Lance shows up and ends up learning just how badly Tristan sees himself while Tris finds out about some of Lance's own insecurities and it's all a bunch of angst that eventually ends with some fluff. I only plan for it to be like a chapter or two, tbh, just a short lil thing.

Second one: [and all we are is skin and bone, trained to get along]

Synopsis: It's your usual trope. Royalty meets commoner and love blossoms between the two. But these boys are a bit different. Not only are they completely different classes, they're different races, too. In this version of Britannia, the Fairy clan doesn't take too kindly to the Goddess Clan and vice versa. But the Prince of Liones has such mesmerizing eyes and that bread thief's sly grin is enough to leave anyone it's aimed at breathless.

[Tristan hurries down the hall and to his room, having only a limited amount of time to get there before the guards come back and see the basket of food he carries with him. It's not like getting caught would be too big of a deal. But getting caught meant he would have to provide an explanation as to why he had the food with him in the first place, and that's what he would get in trouble for. 'Oh, well, you see, mother and father, the reason I was taking this rather large basket of food to my room with me is because I've decided to start giving that very handsome young commoner boy that you captured in the kitchens two weeks ago baskets of food every week so that he'll keep coming back to my balcony and calling me pretty.' Yes, that would certainly go over well. There are so many things wrong with that sentence that just speaking it out loud to anyone would gain him an immediate doctor visit or two.

He bites back a grin as he slips through the doors to his bed chambers quickly, allowing them to fall closed behind him. He sets the basket on his writing desk before walking over to his bed and flopping down on it, the grin finally breaking through despite him trying to prevent it from doing so.]

This little snippet is literally all I have written out for this fic so far, but I plan for this to have at least 6 chapters and I haven't finished planning it out yet, tbh, just that it's gonna be a pretty decent amount of story, lmao. But basically Ban, Elaine, and Lance live like a (mostly) normal family but are pretty poor and Ban tries to stay straight and out of trouble, but Lance doesn't have the same sentiment. HE decides it would be a great idea to try and steal some food directly from the King and Queen (Because Meliodas and Elizabeth don't know Ban or Elaine in this AU, ofc) and he gets caught and thrown behind bars for a few days. But then he gets released and on his way out, he spots Tris looking pretty in the gardens and Tris sees him as well and then there's ✨chemistry✨

But because of Elaine being a fairy, she's extremely distrustful of Elizabeth and Meliodas by association and Ban hates demons, so he hates Meliodas and it's all a whole thing. I plan to have King in the story, too, but I haven't figured out his part of the story yet, or most of the other characters for that matter, lmaoo

Third one: [we're only lost children]

AKAJAKA I'VE TOLD YOU ABOUT THIS ONE BEFORE

THIS IS THE ONE WHERE THEY DANCE

AND THEN THE TIMELINE IS SWITCHED

SO LANCE DISAPPEARS AT AGE 16 INSTEAD OF 10

AND THEN THERE'S A N G S T

But I'll still give you a lil bit of it so that you have plenty of food to eat up :DDD

[They’re so close now, their bodies almost entirely pressed together. Lancelot leans down and presses his forehead into Tristan’s. From their current position, their chests are pressed together and Tristan can feel Lance's heart beating as fast as his own. Lance brings his hand up from Tristan’s knee and instead presses it to his cheek instead, cradling his face tenderly. Tristan mimics the action with his free hand and the two of them stay just like that for a few long moments. Then, slowly, Lance stands back up, pulling Tristan with him, and they continue their dance. But this time, it's different.

Before, the heat and tension building between them was subtle. Now it was all around them, closing in and getting ready to consume them. Their chase continues, but it's faster. Who's the hunter? Who's the prey? Neither is quite sure yet, all they know is that they must catch the other. Tristan's glad to see that Lance is just as affected as he is. The blonde has wide pupils and it almost seems like he's panting. Tristan knows he's the same way. All he wants to do is pull his lover into a kiss, end this chase, but he doesn't want to give in just yet. The air around them is filled with fire and every step they take just adds another spark to the flame.

Lance can see it in Tristan's eyes. He's right on the verge of giving in, of letting Lance win. The competitive nature in him is filled with glee at the chance to win this unspoken game of theirs. He fills his eyes with all his want, all the desire he has for the boy in front of him, and lets a boyish grin grace his lips. And that's it, right there. He sees the moment Tristan gives in and he knows he's won, exactly as he planned to. He pushes Tristan out for one more spin and then pulls his prince right into him.

"Damn you." Tristan whispers against Lance's lips before pushing all the way against him, and the flames overtake them.

The kiss they share now is unlike any kiss that's been exchanged between them before. They've had plenty of makeout sessions, but none of them held as much heat as this one.]

Aksjslakas I forgot that I planned on putting smut in the first chapter 💀💀 Cause it's supposed to be all sweet and romantic and our two boys being all in love and being connected more than ever before AND THEN BOOM

Lance is gone right after for THREE WHOLE YEARS

Cause I'm evil and love making angst LMAO

So there you go!! I know there's a fourth one but I have literally nothing for it except the title, lmao. BUT I know that the title is a lyric from the song The Only Exception by Paramore, so maybe listening to the song while thinking of Trislance will bring whatever idea I had back 💀💀💀

[llaberration]

Coyne's Chronicles: Shadow Over Yfiria- Chapter 18

Evening had formed above Gaelee by the time Fez arrived at the centre of the dead volcano, turning the sky purples and oranges over the glittering dome of magic. A massive fire had been lit on the ground in the centre of the crater, forming a a huge fire pit, over which appeared to be roasting some kind of large sea creature, not quite a fish, not quite a crustacean, something with a little of both, and tentacles in excess of either.

Dragons of all shapes and sizes sat in groups around many smaller fires, talking, laughing, showing off their magic. Set apart from them were slightly more normal sized tables and benches around another fire, where smaller, assorted creatures seemed to be. As Fez flew him down, Coyne could spot six main colours of dragon, though the spectrum of each 'colour' seemed so vast that it would be almost impossible to determine one from another. The six huge dragons, each easily double the size of Windred, still occupied the large plateau of the council area, but now they looked relaxed, less formal, and he had to assume that at this time, they weren't taking proper council appointment, and were merely enjoying their evening.

Fez circled down and eventually landed beside a fire a little ways out from the others, where a familiar green dragon sat patiently waiting for him. “Fez you made it!” called Ditmar, standing up to greet his friend. Coyne was gently dropped and the two dragons pounced at each other, circling and snapping their jaws at each other's necks and faces, some kind of greeting Coyne was glad not to be a part of. He was well enough used to Fez's jaws flying at him, but another dragon's might just put him on edge.

“Indeed, but I must go and fetch my other assistants, they can't fly, would you mind watching Coyne a moment while I do so?” asked Fez, once they were done prancing.

“No you go ahead,” confirmed Ditmar, smiling as he sat down again.

Coyne, a bit uncertain as Fez took off and left him, looked slowly around.

From the sky, the dragons had not looked so large, but now he was on the ground among them, they certainly felt a lot more awing. Being careful not to stare, he took in the sights of the huge creatures as they laughed and talked among themselves.

“It's something, isn't it?”

“Hm?” Coyne looked up at Ditmar.

“The gathering. You only ever see this many dragons in one place here. There is nowhere else in the world that they come together in these numbers.”

“Before I met Fez... I had only seen dragons at a distance. Flying up in the sky, lurking in distant caves or woods... I stayed well enough away from them,” said Coyne, “They're much more awing close up.”

Ditmar chuckled, “Well, as a dragon I take that to be a compliment.”

Coyne managed a smile, “This is all very new to me... I've not been around anyone much for a long time, let alone dragons, so forgive me if I make any etiquette mistakes, I have lost many of the social skills I once had.”

“I quite understand, don't worry. The only ones you really need concern yourself about etiquette with are the council. The rest of us are far more acclimated to a more casual way of living now. Classless whelps and all that.”

“Yeah they're something else again,” said Coyne, indulging himself a brief glance at their plateau, “They're so grand...”

“Each one the eldest of their kind. Or at least the eldest willing to sit on the council,” said Ditmar, “If something happens to one of them, the next eldest of their breed normally takes their place but there are exceptions.”

“Do... dragons get old? Or do they only grow larger?”

“It is... more complicated than that.”

“Oh, I'm sorry, I don't mean to assume...”

“No, no, it's alright... I am thinking how best to word it. Dragons die of unnatural causes all the time, just like humans. But they do not die of ageing like humans. When a dragon grows as ancient and well informed as the council elders, they learn what is known as the Ingktaka, or final spell. A great mystery to the rest of us. The final spell grants them the power to rebirth themselves and come back as a dragon of any colour or kind except that which they just were. When they are ready to do this, they get to hatch and live all over again,”

“Ohh I see,” said Coyne, a little in awe of this. “And I know there are six core 'types' the humans call them 'Black, Red, Green, Blue, Brown and Gold. Is that right?”

“The humans have a strange naming convention but yes, ultimately. We have subtly different names for them in our tongue. To translate them directly for you into Yfirian, what is a black dragon to humans is a Cave dragon to us. Respectively the others would then go Magma, Mire, Sea, Ground and Sky.”

“Yeah I have heard Fez use those. Can I ask what the difference is with each type?”

“I suppose, who better to ask than the scrollmaster,”

“I'm sorry, am I asking too many questions?”

“No,” the green dragon chuckled, “not at all. I merely like to tease. Dragon 'types' are a genetic distinction. There are no hybrids, as two dragons of different types are genetically incompatible. As such, there are subtle differences between each. This is defined by the environment they are designed to live in. Magmas for example, tend to be very hot blooded, with very thermal resistant claws and scales. Ground, or 'Brown' dragons have three broad, flat toes on their front and back feet instead of the more regular five, and smaller wings. They're built for burrowing. Sea dragons have webs between all of their toes and their wings and tails are muscled differently because they are used for swimming. There are a vast array more differences, but I won't bore you with them all. But basically, in human terms, the differences between the breeds are their natural environment. The Magma dragons are resistant to great heat because they tend to live in deserts and volcanic areas. Sea dragons, obviously, are water dwellers. Ground dragons like stone and firm earth, so they tend to go for mountains and woods.”

“Those are self explanatory... but the others are more of a mystery to me.”

“Mire dragons, like myself, are what humans would probably consider the most dangerous. We are venomous, and live in places that damp tends to thrive like swamps, ruins, algal bloom infested coastline.” He lowered his head slightly and raised his lip with a long golden claw so that Coyne could see an intimidating pair of hooked fangs nestled slightly inside the upper front line of his normal dragon teeth.

“I see... isn't that a somewhat limited environment?”

“It is. That is why there are not a vast amount of us.”

“Oh... I'm sorry,”

“Don't be, we are an antisocial breed at the best of times. I am unusual in that I like working in this place where there are always other dragons.”

“Well, Fez certainly seems glad you're here,” Coyne cast an eye around and he did notice that there were actually many less mire dragons than the reds, browns, black and blue... but less still of the gold coloured bodies. Interesting.

Ditmar chuckled quietly, nodding. “It is nice to see him again. Anyhow, to return to my explanation. Black dragons like Fez are the most gifted with magic, they tend to inhabit mountains, canyons and areas with a good many ores and metals to be found and extracted from the rock, as you have seen, they can armour plate their scales with it to great effect.”

“So... what about Gold, or Sky dragons? Those are the ones I know the least about... in fact...” he looked around, “Even now... I only count one... and that's the elder... maybe two others if I'm not misjudging...” The gold dragon elder sat peacefully to the side of the others, occasionally nodding to something one of their companions said. They were resplendent in their quiet dignity. Mostly covered in shimmering golden scales, they had an opalescent white scaled underbelly, white pearl claws and horns, and the brightest green eyes Coyne had ever seen. The build of the dragon was unusual as well, the legs were slender but comparatively short for such a long body, with perhaps the largest wing to body ratio of any of the dragons. He only noticed it when the enormous creature stretched their wings, but they were built differently to Fez's, most notably in their length relative to the body.

“Ah yes. Sky dragons are rare now. They live most of their lives in the air, landing only to nest and hunt. Their nesting grounds are growing harder to find due to humans occupying them when there is nobody to guard the land. It has devastated their numbers.”

“Ohhh,” Coyne said in wonder. “Thank you for explaining to me... I'd hate not to know at least the basics while I am here.”

Ditmar smiled, nodding, “Of course. No doubt Fez will send you off to play with the other assistants once he returns, and you would be expected to know at least the fundamentals of dragon care. Still. Fez is looking much better now, so I think you at least have begun to mastere dragon grooming.”

“That was a steep learning curve but thank you,” said Coyne with a nervous laugh.

A moment or two later, Fez returned with Alan, looking a little exasperated. “Apologies that took so long, our ancient here had been testing a new spell and we needed to catch the desk before we could head over.” He set Alan down gently, and wheeled around to fly back for Trevor.

No sooner had Alan touched down than Ditmar was leaning out towards him, his amber eyes burning with curiosity, “So you are the supposed ancient...” he said quietly, “You look so... ordina-” he cut off as Alan made eye-contact with him, and sat up abruptly. “I take that back. You do have the eyes of an ancient.”

“Why does everyone keep reacting like that,” muttered Alan, adjusting his glasses. “Even the college didn't make this big a deal out of it.”

“That is because your college possesses only the most infinitesimal knowledge, but, like all fools, believe themselves to be well informed,” replied Ditmar with a smile, reaching out to pat Alan on the head in what he seemed to think was a pacifying manner. “Please, you must let go of anything they have tried to teach you, they did not understand what you were, and that is why they did not react as we do.”

Alan blushed a bit, looking at the ground, “I know I just... it's still been a lot to take in,”

Coyne smiled, giving the man a gentle push with his shoulder, “Don't worry. It's a lot for all of us. You'll adjust.”

Alan gave him a genuine smile, “Thanks Coyne.”

A moment later, Fez returned again, gently dropping Trevor and landing beside him. “There we go,” he said, “Now you see why we travel the way we do normally. If I had to make three flights everywhere it would take forever.”

Coyne gave a little smile, thinking to himself that surely that was not the only reason. Nothing to do with Fez enjoying a full crop, or being overly protective. “Would you like us to leave you two to catch up?”

“If you would like to go and meet some of the other assistants, I believe it would be most educational for you yes. But remember what I have said so far, alright?”

“Got it,” said Coyne, “Thanks Fez.”

The three of them left the two dragons, and Coyne led them a little uncertainly towards the group of more mixed individuals. His plan was to play it safe. Don't go marching up to anyone, just go and stay near the group. He was sure some of the more confident assistants would come over to investigate the newcomers.

Once they were a reasonable distance from the others, he stopped and turned to the two mages, “I think we should just stay here for now and wait for some of them to come to us... I don't want to draw too much attention to us yet, not until we know a few of them.”

“That seems like a sensible plan,” said Alan with a nod.

“I don't like any of this...” grumbled Trevor, glancing around, “We need to be careful. I can smell so many different creatures and I only know what about half of them are, at a push,” he hushed his tone, “There's at least one werewolf here...”

Coyne nodded, “We will be careful, don't worry. If anything seems to be going wrong, we can go back to Fez. Or I can hide you.”

Trevor gave a grunt of acknowledgement, but he was visibly on edge. Perhaps because he was a druid, and closer to his self preservation instincts, he was less willing to trust a new situation like this. Coyne knew he was just trying to process an unsettling environment in his own way, and being gruff seemed to be that way. Barely two days ago the man had been wrung out of magical energy like a sponge, and he was probably still feeling a bit tender from it, so the mimic was sympathetic to his situation.

Alan shot Coyne a look, as though he was checking that he had noticed the other mage's mood, then moved to sit down with a quiet sigh, “We'll wait here then, and play it safe for tonight.”

Coyne, glad that the mage was absolutely okay with taking his approach, sat down as well, smiling, “So, how are you guys taking all of this?”

Trevor looked relieved that they had established this to be 'their spot' and he sat down, taking a deep breath. “It's been pretty bloody insane,” he gestured vaguely around them. “I mean.... ehhhhh...” he made a general exclamation at the situation.

Coyne let out a quiet laugh and nodded, “No I understand that,” he chuckled, “A few weeks ago I was scraping for coppers in the mud, wasting away, looking at the end of my life in very short order....” he shook his head, “If I didn't know better I would think this was all some kind of hallucination brought on by the stress of facing my impending demise. If it wasn't all so real I might be suspicious,”

Alan looked at him for a long moment, “Were you really that close to death?”

“Down to a very limited number of coins left,” he confirmed.

“What happens when you run out? Do you just die?”

“Honestly I don't know. It has never happened, some instinct tells me it's bad though, and probably fatal. Still, with as much gold as Fez has been using me to hold onto, I've got all the time in the world now,” he grinned, “I know this is all nuts for you guys but... you have to admit it's pretty incredible.”

“It is that,” admitted Alan, “It'll be easier once we have slept on it I think. Everything takes more processing when you haven't had time to think on it,”

Coyne grinned, nodding. “Well, don't look now, but I think things are about to get weirder.”

“Huh?”

It hadn't taken long for the other apprentices to notice the newcomers settled outside their group. Heads had started to turn their way, and there had been a few hushed tones before a strange figure had begun walking over towards them. Hands shoved in the pockets of his overly straight black trousers, a humanoid approached them casually. His footsteps barely made a sound on the smooth ground as he walked, even though his polished shoes did not look designed for sneaking. In the flickering light of the fire, he looked like something out of a nightmare. A shock of red hair flopped across his face from above, more like a mane than a fringe, framed between two small, upright ears on the top of his head. The term 'face' was to be used loosely here, as the creature in fact did not have a face. A worn, dried looking skull of some canine breed, was what formed the main features of his face. Coyne did not estimate it to be a mask either, because there were no eyes behind the empty sockets. Instead, two pinpoints of red light shone out of the skull's eyeholes. Below the skull, where the neck connected, Coyne could see bright blue, ever so slightly translucent flesh, a strange tone indeed. He had never seen or heard of a creature like this before, but it was not moving threateningly.

“Hello,” the figure stopped beside the little group, his red dots of eyes swivelling from one to the next. As he did this, the skull face did not move. It remained still, as though the roving eyes were the only part that needed to move to take them in. He spoke in a voice so low and rich that Coyne reckoned it did not come from remotely human lips but seemed to vibrate through the air and echo from the bones. The skull was not a mask. It was his actual face. “I see you have put yourself outside the other apprentices. Why is this?” as he spoke, a kind of vapour seemed to pour from the jaws of the skull in curling little puffs, like exhaling on a cold morning, but it was neither cold, nor morning... the air was humid and warm, making this altogether more strange.

Coyne, seeing Alan and Trevor were both stunned into silence by this newcomer, stood up out of politeness. “We're new, and we didn't want to interrupt,” he said, giving a polite nod.

The creature cocked his head like a curious dog, listening, his gaze travelling slowly over Coyne with tangible interest. “New you say. Just arrived first time?”

Coyne nodded a confirmation. “We're still learning the etiquette.”

The creature gave a chuckle, and the sound seemed to echo through his skull strangely, as though the sound came from multiple points rather than one fixed mouth. “I see you have been caught up in thinking everything is etiquette here. Understandable. The dragons can make you feel that way. Do not worry, the assistants are less formal about things. Most of us will not bite.”

“Well I'm glad to hear that,” replied Coyne, “We weren't sure the best way to introduce ourselves.”

“Well then I shall begin for you,” said the creature with a nod of his head. “My name is Syd, chief assistant to Daelinitrix, of the council.”

Coyne was a little taken aback to discover that the council members even had assistants, but after a half-second of processing it, he realised it was actually kind of dumb that it surprised him. Of course they did. They were bigger and busier than any dragon, it made sense that they had assistants. “Coyne,” he said, “Assistant to Mylfeziah,” he nudged Alan with his knee, and the mage snapped out of his shock at the talking skull creature, standing up so quickly that he almost fell over once again, dragging Trevor up with him.

“Alan,” he said, “Also assistant to Mylfeziah,” as he spoke, Syd's face turned to fix him with its lidless stare, only the head and neck moving, the body remaining unnervingly static.

“Aahaaa...” said the creature, “I have heard about you... whispers and rumours spreading around the campfire like a plague among men...”

Alan took a tiny step back, feeling as though the cold stare was drilling into him, “I... I don't know why...”

“How could the dragons not talk about the arrival of an ancient?” Cooed the deep voice.

Coyne could have sworn that the skull grinned a little wider as the creature spoke, and as he saw Alan stumbling on his words. He stepped in, putting himself between Alan and the creature's gaze to draw those piercing red eyes. “I'm sorry, he's new to all of this. He only just found out he's an ancient so we're all still learning about it.”

The skull gave a single nod, then turned to Trevor, “And you?”

“Trevor, druid. Also Mylfeziah's,” said Trevor, with a little twinge of his old sarcasm again. His eyes were a bit narrowed too, as though he was trying to get some kind of reading on this new creature.

“Goodness me. Mylfeziah has always had a reputation for travelling alone, and now he turns up with all three of you, how very intriguing...” said Syd, his gaze travelling slowly over each one of them once more before he gestured towards the fire at the centre of the assistant group. “Come. Join us and introduce yourselves. We have spit-roasted Kheascean, and some fairly decent mead.”

Coyne, feeling as though they had just been judged worthy, gave a nod, looking at the others to check that they were alright with joining a larger group, and seeing them both give a small confirmation, smiled at Syd, “Lead the way,” he said in a pleasant, polite tone.

Coyne followed as the strange being lead them through the main gathering of assistants, to where an enormous, at least seven foot tall, dark haired man in fine silver and black robes was carving what looked like a roasted tentacle from the creature the dragons were spit roasting. “Hungry?” asked Syd gesturing, “It's quite good.”

“What... is it?” asked Trevor.

“We call them Kheascean. It's a species from the deep ocean. They live by assimilating the parts of other species by just kind of... stealing them. Sticks the parts to itself and carries on happily, gradually getting bigger and scarier as it goes. It's actually quite tasty.”

Alan and Trevor looked at each other with a moment of uncertainty, they were hungry for a proper meal but... this was definitely a bit outside their cuisine experience.

“Safe for humans to eat?” asked Coyne, spotting their look.

“Once it is well roasted, of course,” replied Syd.

“Well then... we should probably have some. Mylfeziah is still learning basic human care, and food has been a little short so...” Alan tried to put on a brave face, though he was visibly a little uncertain.

“Ah yes,” said Syd, giving a strange chuckle again, “Dragons are a little like that at first. Don't worry, they learn fast,” he took several metal plates from the top of a stack beside the meat and offered them to the newcomers. Alan and Trevor both took one, but Coyne held up his hands, “not for me, thank you,” he said, shaking his head.

Syd shrugged, returned one plate to the pile and gestured to the pile of already carved meat beside the large man. “As you wish,”

Alan sidled up to the stack of food, cautiously trying to see if he was supposed to help himself or ask, looking nervous as the large man paused in his carving and gave him a look over.

“It's okay Gregorio,” said Syd, “They're new but they're with us.”

The huge man's face broke into a smile, showing off a set of white, exceptionally sharp teeth as he slapped a large hunk of still steaming meat onto Alan's plate.

“Gregorio doesn't talk a lot unless he has to,” said Syd quietly to Coyne, as Trevor was also supplied with meat. “Werewolves, a funny lot, prefer actions to words and all that.”

Both mages thanked the large man and Syd led them to a table a short ways from the main fire, sitting down and gesturing the others to do the same. As Coyne sat, he glanced around at the occupants of the table that they were joining. There was Syd of course, along with several others, a strange assortment of individuals.

At the far end, a little ways from everyone, staring blankly into space, his plate of cooked fish apparently forgotten sat an extremely thin, worn looking figure, his face drawn and tired looking, but otherwise human as far as Coyne could see. He had slightly curly, pale blonde hair and grey blue eyes that just looked exhausted as they bored into the table.

A tall silent figure sat beside Syd, hooded robe drawn up over their head and face so Coyne could tell nothing about them. He could just make out the outline of a bony, almost skeletal snout though, covered in the thinnest layer of grey skin.

Along a little further was what looked, at least to Coyne's untrained eye, like a sock puppet, on an arm, with nothing else visible. It sat sedately at the table looking at them with its obviously sewn-on button eyes that didn't even match. The mimic wanted to lean down and look under the table to investigate if there was an owner but he suspected that he would either find something he did not want to see lurking down there, or worse, he would find that the puppet was not in fact attached to anything.

Also down the table on the same side sat an extremely pale being dressed in a fine, dark suit, quietly sipping something from a goblet that Coyne suspected was not mead. This, Coyne was fairly confident, was a vampire. The palor and the cold look to the dark eyes were distinct, and he had crossed paths with such creatures before. They were civil, if anything they were a bit stuck up, and rarely played well with others. This one looked friendly enough though, and spared him a polite nod of greering.

Finally, skittering about on the tabletop were two small, dragon-like creatures. Coyne was instantly aware that they were not normal or young dragons. About a foot long, their bodies were built broader and flatter, more like the tiny lizards one saw around Yfiria in summer. They had two additional pairs of legs beside the standard four and instead of the majestic, folding wings of a normal dragon, they had colourful little gossamer wings... somewhere between butterfly and dragonfly, which had a beautiful, stained-glass look to them. They also did not look as intelligent as dragons.

Trevor and Alan looked around at this motley crew and quickly turned their attention to their food, staring into their plates to avoid confrontation.

Syd gave them a moment to take in the group before leaning forwards, knitting his fingers and resting the chin of his skull on them, his hollow eyes looking at Coyne. “So. What are you?”

Coyne blinked, “Uh...”

“You don't eat. You have the energy of a man but... far greater and there is something else, something I can't quite put my finger on. At first I thought maybe some kind of exotic were breed but... you would have leapt at the chance for food if that were the case. So. Tell me. What am I missing? I love these guessing games but you have me mystified.”

“Well, uh, it's kind of a long story,” said Coyne, rubbing the back of his head. “As of now I am what they're calling a mimic-hybrid.”

“Interesting...” said Syd, “And you don't eat?”

“Not food,”

“Interesting...”

“And you? If it isn't wrong of me to ask? What are you?”

Syd chuckled, and once again, Coyne was almost certain the skull grinned a little wider. “I am. Like you. A long story. A unique set of circumstances,”

“I see,” Coyne had to admit he was curious but did not want to pry.

“For the rest of our friends here, we have Silky and Tindle,” he pointed at the two dragon-like lizards playing on the table. As their names were said, both paused, looked at Coyne, bowed their heads in greeting, then went back to chasing one another. “They're known as Ersins. Tiny cousins of dragons,” he paused as he watched Silky pause to lick at a stain on the table, “Distant cousins. They are assistants to Windred.” He pointed down the table at the vampire, “Thady, Earl of Dunmaw. It is unusual for a dragon to have a vampire as an assistant but their longevity, ability to pass as human and propensity for manners makes them useful in their own way.” The vampire, hearing the introduction, gave a stoic nod to Coyne and the two mages.

“Compton,” Syd gestured to the sock puppet. “Is an Abernangle. A semi-parasitic species that chooses a host based on replacing a missing piece of them. They sometimes spend their entire lives in their infant form waiting to find someone or something that is missing a limb or organ to replace. Unfortunately, after the host passes on from natural causes, they're still stuck in that form for the rest of their lives.”

“So he's...”

“Just an arm, yes.”

“Can he talk?”

“Yes. He can talk, hear, smell and taste. He uses a kind of thermal sensing to see, so he can do that too. When they attach to a host, they basically operate exactly as the original limb or organ did, they imitate it perfectly after a period of transitional change. All they ask in return is to be fed once in a while.”

“It's a pretty good deal for someone missing an arm,” said Compton, clearly aware he was being talked about. The voice came from somewhere under the hand, around the palm so Coyne had to assume there was a mouth in there somewhere. “They get their arm back and all they have to do is keep me fed and occasionally make idle conversation.”

“And... if I might ask... why the sock-puppet getup?”

“Why not?” asked the creature with a dry chuckle. “It amuses my dragon no end.”

Coyne had to concede that this was as good a reason as he could have expected, and it had certainly given Trevor and Alan pause for thought as they both looked unsettled by the thing. “How is the... Kheascean...” he asked them conversationally.

“It's not bad actually,” said Alan, thoughtfully. “It takes some time to chew but... the flavour isn't the worst thing by any means.”

Coyne was relieved about this, glad that the humans were at least getting a decent meal. “Good, and you Trevor?”

“It's actually quite tasty,” confirmed the druid, holding up a chunk of the meat, “I was worried about the whole... tentacle thing but it's good.”

Coyne nodded approvingly at this and looked back to Syd, “And the others?”

“Millicent,” said Syd, gesturing to the tall, dark clad figure, “Doesn't talk much, like Gregorio, don't worry about it, and down at the end there is Iewan. He's... different.”

“Different?”

Syd nodded, lowering his voice a little, “He's a new assistant to Oridingeon, the Sea dragon elder. Quite new, but... from another time and place.”

“What do you mean?”

“Sometimes, in limited circumstances, dragons can... go places we can't. Pass through barriers we don't even know of. Iewan is from the other side of one of those.”

“Okay... so what is he?”

“He's a human. But. There's something else with him.”

“How do you mean?”

“He tells the story best honestly. He uses words I do not know. You should talk to him, he's actually quite friendly.”

“He looks sad,” said Coyne quietly.

“Well, he has that about him. We try to involve him where possible, but he struggles with our world being new to him. He might get along better with your mages there, since they're at least human.”

Coyne nodded with a small smile, “We'll try that once their confidence is built up a little. It's been a long day for them,”

Syd gave a little chuckle, “The first Quat-del-nae is the hardest. Once you have seen a gathering like this once, nothing will ever seem exotic to you again.”

They sat quietly for a time, the two mages finished their portions of Kheascean, and talked quietly between themselves. The two small Ersins were quick to invade the vacated plates and clear them of scraps.

As Coyne watched, dragons and assistants alike finished up their food and headed out, back to their caves. The enormous ancient dragons seemed to resume council, and he had to draw the conclusion that this place operated on its own timescale. He reckoned it was about 4am now, give or take a few hours, and they had just had their equivalent of 'dinner' and now the council was doing a last few appointments before rest.

The two mages were visibly flagging, despite all of the rest they had had on the way here, the two humans had been through so much that they were clearly struggling a bit. Coyne felt bad, because he could see that Fez and Ditmar were still talking animatedly at their fire, and he did not want to disturb that... but Trevor in particular seemed tired. Coyne was listening politely to Syd tell stories about council meetings in the past, and though he was interested, he did notice the druid trying to catch his eye. He couldn't really do much to respond to it though, as Syd was in the middle of animatedly telling him about a time when an exceptionally large and ugly Kheascean had actually tried to climb up the side of the island to get at the creatures inside, and Coyne was too polite to ask him for a pause. Clearly the delay was longer than the druid was willing to wait, as a moment later, Coyne made an exclamation of surprise as he felt something crawling up him. For a moment he was terrified to think that it was Compton playing some kind of prank, but a glance discovered a slender little stoat was climbing up his body. “Trevor?” he asked in surprise, as he spotted the druid was no longer visible. The stoat nodded and Coyne smiled apologetically at Syd, “Sorry, can you excuse us for a moment,” he said politely, and gently took hold of Trevor, walking out towards the darkness at the edge of the group and stopping. “I know that you're tired but you scared the life out of me!” he said, looking accusingly at the creature.

Trevor, apparently unconcerned with this, yawned a squeaky little noise at him.

“I know you're tired,” said Coyne, “But Fez is clearly still talking with Ditmar so...”

The stoat suddenly leaned forwards and headbutted him in the mouth.

“Oh...” Coyne blinked as he realised that the Druid wanted to go to bed regardless... and it was true, they didn't need to go back to the room for that. “But you're a stoat, and we only have a few hours before dawn when I will need to bring you out anyway...”

“That's okay, he can only stay as a stoat for a few hours,” said Alan, smiling as he approached them.

“You too?” asked Coyne.

Alan nodded, “It's been a long week... I'm not as tired as Trevor but... tired.”

Coyne sighed a little, “What happens when he runs out of 'stoat' time?”

“He's always described it as like 'having arthritis in your entire body' if you stay in one shape too long that's not yours. But he won't just spontaneously turn into his human form again if that's what you're concerned about.”

Coyne sighed a bit, giving the stoat a severe look. “I would rather not eat you like that,”

Trevor yawned at him again, twisting in the mimic's hands to curl up, looking up at him with sad, dark eyes.

“Fine. Fine. But if you're cramped and uncomfortable don't come crying to me,” he looked at Alan, “is he always like this?”

“He gets strange when he's tired. Tends to go into one of his animal forms and act like he's drunk. Maybe letting the animal instincts take the reigns a bit? One time he got grumpy tired, turned into a horse and tried to fight Belfus. It didn't go over well.”

“Odd...” said Coyne, shaking his head, but the stoat squeaked at him, sitting up on its hind legs in his hands and putting gentle little feet on his chin.

“Can't be worse than eating Fez,” said Alan with a grin.

Coyne nodded, “I suppose you're right but... still,” he reluctantly opened his mouth, grunting as Trevor began to climb inside. The long, agile body was just a bundle of pure muscle, and wasted no time burrowing backwards. The mimic was forced to open up and swallow just to keep up with the swift movement. With an undignified, wet sound, he stumbled back a step, caught his balance, and got himself focused again, raising the stoat's wriggling body up to help it get inside. It was a little like swallowing Fez, but not as readily slippery, longer and thinner. The wiry little form possessed a wriggling strength he had not experienced before, and he made a note to ask Trevor to be more gentle in future as the powerful little body burrowed its way down inside.

As soon as the long, brushy tail slid away, he grunted, wiping his mouth on his sleeve, “He is not gentle, is he?” he said, looking at Alan.

“He's... a bit of a rough soul,” said Alan, a hint of fondness in his tone. “Go easy on him. He's been walking so carefully for so long... this is the first time he's been free and he doesn't know what to do with it yet.”

Coyne's face softened and he let out a little exhale as the shape began to curl in his belly, squirming around to get himself upright and settle into a bundle. “I hope there's still space for you,” he commented to Alan, “I'm glad you're not both druids, I don't think I'd have room for two stoats...”

“In theory if I learn enough magic from Fez letting us practice I could turn into-”

“Don't. Please don't,” said Coyne, a hand on his stomach, “Single stoat occupancy. Now let's have you too... don't want to be away too long, they might think it rude.”

Alan nodded, reaching up to squeeze his earring and say the trigger word Fez had given them. As before, purple smoke consumed the man, reducing him down to a mere snack.

Coyne gently lifted him into his hands, grimacing as Trevor 'snuggled' inside, the action much stronger than he was used to. “Just keep him under control in there okay? I don't need him tying my guts in a knot.”

“Got it, thanks Coyne,” The tiny man gave the mimic's thumb a gentle squeeze, “I know this has been a lot for you too, and you're handling it as though it's not just for our sakes but...” he stumbled and lost his words, shaking his head, “just thanks.”

Coyne managed a little blush and a nod before lifting the small body to his mouth, wanting to hide the embarrassment by eating the small man.

Alan did not fight him, and after the wriggling, burrowing bundle of trouble Trevor had been, the second mage felt like almost no effort to swallow at all. He was gone in a couple of gulps, and soon lost in the bundle of weight that was Trevor's chosen form. Still, he was reassured to feel the stoat react to Alan's arrival by moving around, making space before they settled.

Coyne exhaled quietly, patting his stomach before returning to the light, finding only Syd and Iewan still at their table. The others had either gone off to bed or to their duties.

Syd smiled at his return, raising a strange hand in greeting. Blue like the skin of his neck, with black nails and only four long fingers, no thumbs. “Welcome back. Putting your mages to bed?”

Coyne nodded, “In a manner of speaking.”

“Well, I must return to my dragon,” said Syd with a polite nod towards the enormous shape of the Magma dragon council member. “If your dragon is not done meeting old friends, you should get to know Iewan. He's an interesting one.”

“Okay...” said Coyne, glancing at the quiet man at the end of the table. He seemed to have finished his food now but still looked vacantly haunted. Still, if everyone else was going, Coyne would have to try. He bade Syd a goodnight, or morning, and slid down the table to face the stranger, giving a small wave.

Iewan blinked, snapping out of some haze as he noticed the man before him. He looked at Coyne for a long moment, then managed a weak, but genuine smile. “New?”

Coyne nodded, “Just arrived today.”

“Pretty exciting place huh?”

“Yeah. Is it your first time too?”

“Yeah. Been... seeing a lot of firsts this year...”

“Syd says you're from... somewhere else?”

“I am,” the man gave a dry, slightly strained chuckle, as though breathing was effort for him. “Where I am from... there aren't any dragons. Or generally aren't. As far as I know, Ridgar was the first, and he brought me back here with him.”

“So you're from... another land?”

“Yes and no,” Iewan shook his head, “more like another world but... another land is a simpler way of putting it.”

“Why did Ridgar bring you here?”

“It's a really long story but... to summarise it in its purest form, I didn't fit in where I was any more, and it would have been detrimental to my world for me to stay.”

“Oh. I'm sorry to hear that,”

Iewan looked a bit surprised, but pleased about this, “Thanks. Most people here just want to know what I am.”

Coyne chuckled, shrugging. “I have had a lot of that today myself,” he grinned, glad to see the man brightening into their conversation a little. “But I care more about who someone is than what they are.”

“Well, I'm glad for that. Getting my head around this place has been a lot to handle ontop of everything else.”

“I know what that's like,” said Coyne with a nod, “A few weeks ago I was in a totally different situation, really bad, really dark... now here I am, assistant to a dragon... helping look after two fairly unusual mages, a slime and a horse who is now a cat...” he let out a high laugh at how ridiculous it all was.

Iewan's face broke into a grin at the laugh as well, a warm and genuine one that lifted the shadows on his face a little and made him look a bit less drawn. “That sounds like you've had quite a time of it.”

Coyne let his laugh taper out to a chuckle, a hand quietly on his belly under the table, “You don't know the half of it.” He drew a few breaths to calm his tone, then said, in a friendly manner, “I don't mean to pry, but are you alright? You look so tired...”

Iewan nodded, “I'm alive. But I've been going through quite a time of it, both before and since Ridgar found me. Dragons aren't the best at caring for humans, he's been doing his best, and I'm adjusting but... it's been a time.”

“Yeah we made a few mistakes early on too,” said Coyne, “Forgot to feed our humans enough, that sort of thing.”

Iewan let out a long sigh, “I need a lot more food these days too... since it happened.”

“Do you... want to talk about whatever it is? Since I'm guessing that's why you were brought here.”

Iewan paused a moment, his face going through several emotions as he considered, then finally shook his head. “You know what? Not tonight. I've talked about little else for the last week since we arrived. Would you humour me and we can just... keep talking as though everything is normal?”

Coyne nodded, “Of course. Why don't you tell me about your home instead? This 'other land' of yours.”

Iewan gave a nod and a grateful smile. “Thank you. I would like that very much.”

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

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[tara-the-quiet-bookworm-2016]

Cherish You Yandere! Gaz x Female Reader. Chapter Two.

Authors Notes- And here I am back again with yet another chapter to Cherish You. And as you can gather by now I like to point out all triggering things in the Authors Notes so this chapter will feature yet more obsessive thoughts from our boy Gaz. Stalking, non-con voyeurism, mentions of violence, and dubious consent, if none of this is your cuppa tea then this is where we part ways but I'll remember our time fondly. Now that we got that out of the way here is Chapter Two.

Chapter Two: Forever.

Tonight had been ruined. Gaz thought as he drove home after bidding both you and...him. Goodnight, promising you that you and and he would get together again soon, and Gaz hoped, hoped that James wouldn't be there. What did you see in him? Sure, Gaz could see why you would be enamored with him, James seemed like a wonderful guy, to anyone else that is. But to Gaz the man seemed to be hiding something.

And he didn't just think that because Gaz was harboring feelings for you either. At least that's what he told himself, tried to convince himself that your relationship wasn't going to work, and you would come to your senses and realize at it was him you loved.

Oh, who am I kidding? Gaz thought darkly, as he stepped out of his car and headed into his home, his mother and sisters were fast asleep as it was well past midnight by now, and honestly Gaz normally would be going to bed right about now too. But he knew he couldn't as he stepped into the bathroom, stripping of his clothes and stepping into the shower, hoping that it would help clear his head of these thoughts.

But alas, no such luck. I'm so deeply in love with you, Y/N. And you just don't see that do you? He thought, lathering himself up, a tired sigh escaping his lips as he let his head fall back. And I've lost you, haven't I?

No. A new thought formed in Gaz's mind as he stepped out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around his waist as he headed towards his room. This isn't over, Y/N. You were meant to be mine, you will be mine...

Climbing under the covers Gaz soon drifted off to sleep, dreaming of you, dreaming of the day you were his. And hopefully tomorrow would be a new day. And hey, perhaps tomorrow you and he would do lunch or breakfast or something without James.

***

Morning came soon after, and while Gaz somehow managed to get a pretty decent nights sleep despite everything he was still in a foul mood. He had texted you the moment he had woke up, asking you if you'd like to do breakfast or lunch or something, and...no response. No worries he had told himself you often slept in late when you didn't have to wake up early, and he knew you usually got up around noon or one-ish depending on how tired you were. But, now it was three and still no response, your normally at least texted him back no matter how busy you were. Obviously James was taking up your time.

That thought alone caused Gaz to growl, gripping his phone hard enough to almost crack the screen. When-

"Kyle?" His mother called, jerking him from his thoughts.

Looking up he looked to where his mother and sisters were looking at him from their places at the table. His mother looking at him expectantly.

"I'm sorry," Gaz said sheepishly, feeling his cheeks heat up. "What did you say?"

His mother looked at him, a frown on her face. "I asked what your plans were for today?"

Gaz thought for a moment, chewing on his bottom lip, before shrugging his shoulders. "I was going to go to breakfast or lunch with Y/N but she hasn't responded, so nothing really."

At that his sister chuckled. "That's not surprising, Y/N has been spending all her time with her new boyfriend lately."

Gaz perked up at that, looking to his sister, noting how she said boyfriend. Did his sisters hate your new boyfriend as much as he did?

"Ick." His other sister piped up. "I don't see what she sees in that guy, do you think Y/N realizes he's scum?"

Well, this certainly got interesting.

"Do you guys not like him?" Gaz asked them.

All eyes were on him now, silence permeating throughout the room, his sister chewing on her bottom lip as she tried to find away to answer his question. "Look, it's not like he's a complete asshole." she started, looking rather sheepish, seeming to regret saying anything knowing that Gaz had a tendency of somehow dragging things out when given the chance.

So, she knew trying to keep him in the dark was near impossible, but that didn't stop her from feeling like something was off with Gaz, that this was more than just mere curiosity in regards to his best friends new boyfriend. "But the guy has some red flags."

That piqued Gaz's interest. "Meaning?" he prompted, perhaps what he learned here could be of use to get you away from him.

"Well, he's always keeping tabs on Y/N whenever she's out without him, I remember him calling her so many times the last time we went out. Another time I recall him going off on her one time because she and several of her coworkers went out for drinks after work, and of course he was with them. And lost his shit when she laughed at something one of her male co-workers said. James said that she was flirting with him, and he all but dragged her out of there. Suffice it to say. Asshole."

"And did you discuss this with Y/N?" Gaz asked, hopefully, perhaps you saw how messed up with was, and with a little nudge or two you would be convinced to leave him.

"We tried but Y/N is all starry-eyed and shit around him. Got those rose-tinted glasses on so that all of his red flags just look like flags. I just hope she comes to her senses before he really hurts her." His sister sighed.

Gaz would never allow that to happen, he would rip him limb from bloody limb before James ever laid a hand on you. But now, with this new information Gaz knew that now more than ever he had to get you away from him. Nodding to himself he finished off his breakfast, you and him had agreed to meet up for a bit of shopping WITHOUT James.

***

"So?" You spoke, as both you and Gaz walked down the street, Gaz's arms laden with all your bags that he insisted on carrying, hell he even insisted on buying you things he knew you had your eye on. Though you had tried to tell him no he bought you countless items he knew you had always wanted, you had said no but Gaz knew you deserved it. Did James spoil you like he did?

"Where do you want to go to eat?" You asked.

Gaz shrugged, an easy smile on his pretty face, a smile that always brought a faint blush to your cheeks, he always loved seeing you blush, and as the two of you continued to walk and talk about everything Gaz's poor heart skipping a beat whenever you smiled at him. Fuck how he loved you, and you had no idea, no matter once he was out of the way Gaz would gather up his courage and tell you how he felt. And he hoped, prayed that you would finally come to your senses and realize that it was him that you loved. Not James, and man who didn't know how to treat someone like you, someone so precious, so sweet, so innocent.

How he dreamed of corrupting you, of taking you, how more than once when he was gone did he dream of you, of taking you, your sweet cries reaching his ears as you came undone underneath him. And like always he always woke up, cock hard and twitching as he came in his boxers, your name on his lips as he did so. What would you think if you knew what he thought of you? Would you feel the same?

"Kyle?" Your sweet voice jerked him from his thoughts, hand on his arm as you looked up at him. "Did you hear me?"

"Oh sorry, did you say something?" Gaz asked, cheeks flushing.

"I asked where you'd like to eat. Are... you okay?" You asked, placing a hand on his arm, his poor heart skipping a beat as you did so.

"Of course, why?" Gaz asked.

"You've been rather quiet today."

"Sorry," Gaz said, rather sheepishly. "I've had a lot on my mind as of late."

"About what?"

Gaz chewed on his bottom lip as he looked down at you, should he tell you what's on his mind? Should he tell you what he thought of your boyfriend? Should he gather up the courage to tell you how he felt?

"Kyle?" You prompted as he fell silent once again.

Gaz looked down at you. Words he had been dying to say for years on the tip of his tongue, struggling to come out. "Y/N, I've been meaning to tell you something I-"

DING!

He was cut off by the sound of your phone chiming, noticing how your eyes widened as it did before you reached for it, only to stop yourself. Obviously whoever had texted you could wait. But, obviously whoever was texting you couldn't.

DING! DING! DING!

Another string of chimes indicating three more text messages, and Gaz couldn't help but notice how your demeanor changing with each text message. Pulling your phone out of your purse you unlocked it, your smile turning into a frown.

"Are you okay?" Gaz asked.

Forcing yourself to look away from your phone you forced a smile to your face as you looked to your friend. "O-Of course, look I'm sorry Kyle but something has come up. Can we take a raincheck?"

Gaz frowned. It was him, wasn't it? There was only one person Gaz knew that could make you feel like this. Without waiting for him to respond you darted down the street, and out of his sight.

Gaz growled low in his throat, this was the last straw, gritting his teeth he disappeared down the street opposite of you. He had work he needed to do...

***

Night time just couldn't come fast enough for Gaz as he spent most of his day tracking down where James worked and soon learned where he lived, he was intent of finding dirt on the guy to show you that he was no good for you. He could no longer stand idly by as you slipped further and further away from him. So, here he was looking over his shoulder as he picked the lock to James apartment, the door swinging open as he did so and quietly stepped in. He knew James wasn't home he was out for the evening with you. So Gaz had plenty of time to look around.

Closing the door behind him he glanced around the apartment, it was nice he'd admit that as he moved towards the living room, noting the various books lining the bookshelves, filled with non-fiction, and history books, well that was one thing you and James didn't have in common. You always loved your fiction, claiming that you had enough with real life as is that sometimes you liked to escape to other worlds.

And how Gaz loved to watch you do so, seeing that soft smile on your lips and dreamy look on your face. Did James appreciate that? Seeing nothing note-worthy in the living room aside from a dying house plant that only indicated that he sucked at taking care of living things that is. And besides most of the juicy stuff was normally in either the office or bedroom. Gaz opted for the bedroom first, passing the hallway closet as he did so.

Entering the room he saw a perfectly made bed and a small desk beside it with a desk lamp. Turning on the lamp he began to rummage around, his eyes lighting up when he caught sight of something, various somethings in fact. One was another phone, not the one Gaz had seen with him the last time he had seen James, this one was different, but that's not what caught his attention. Beneath the phone were pictures of James and a woman, or rather several women that weren't you.

Narrowing his eyes Gaz picked up the pictures and flipped though them, and there was no way these could be his relatives, and with the amount of tongue action there was between James and there various women it was safe to say that theses weren't just friends...

Did his spare phone have the numbers of these girls? Gaz turned to the phone once more, picking it up he began to try and decipher the password, and not to his surprise it turned out to be his birthday. Typical. For a guy who had more than a few secrets you'd think he'd do better to make sure things were secure. Did he really think no one would ever find out? Boy was he in for a surprise.

Pocketing both the phone and the pictures he turned to leave the apartment, when he heard the door begin to unlock. Shit. He was supposed to be gone for hours why was he back already? Biting back a curse Gaz ducked into the hallway closet as the door swung open and in stomped a red faced James. You following closely behind.

"I keep telling you it's not what you think-"

"Really?!" James snapped, whirling on you, gripping your arm so hard you knew it would leave a bruise. "And what am I supposed to think? Batting your eyes at the waiter like that, and that giggling-"

"I was just being friendly, and the giggling the joke he told me was funny-"

"Don't bullshit me, bitch!" James roared, jerking your forward, eyes blazing.

Anger swelled in Gaz's chest as he saw the fear shining in your eyes as you looked to your boyfriend anger at James for making you feel afraid, was this way you had skipped out on your lunch date with him? What other things had he done to you.

"You were flirting with him. Just like you were probably cheating on me with what's-his- face. Your best friend or whatever."

"Kyle? He and I are best friends, James. Please just listen to me-"

"You know I worked hard for this evening, Y/N." James sighed, sounding disappointed. "And you do nothing but throw it back in my face, you're so...ungrateful..."

"No, no, no please I appreciate everything you've done for me tonight and every other night." You protested.

Why were you fighting so hard for him? Gaz wondered, as he watched you rest your hands on James' heaving chest, trying to calm him down. You should be cutting ties with the fuck not dealing with this. You deserved better.

"Do you really?" James asked. You nodded, tears shining in your beautiful eyes. Gaz's anger intensifying. "Then perhaps you can make it up to me..."

Wasting no more time James lead you to the bedroom, a hand on the back of your neck. "Oh, James maybe we shouldn't-"

"You love me don't you?" James asked, looking down at you, hunger shining in his eyes.

"Yes, but-"

"Then you will do this for me." And with that he lead you into the bedroom. A sick feeling formed in Gaz's gut, he had a pretty good idea what was happening, and he was more than certain you weren't all to willing. Stepping out of the closet he stood in the hallway debating on what he should do now.

He wanted nothing more than to throw the door to that room open and tear James limb from bloody limb right in front of you, to take you from him, to make James feel the exact same fear you no doubt felt. But he stopped himself, you saw Gaz as Kyle, sweet kind Kyle who never wanted to hurt you. He couldn't let you see him as Gaz, a man who had done unspeakable things in his life, who was capable of unspeakable things. Horrific things. So he hesitated, he knew he should leave head home and get some rest.

And that was what he had intended, but a noise from the bedroom caught his attention, heading in the direction of the bedroom he hesitated once more. No. He should be heading home, you had promised to make it up to him for flaking out on him tomorrow, and Gaz wanted to be rested for that, but he couldn't force himself to move. Instead he moved towards the bedroom as he was greeted by a low growl, James no doubt, followed by a breathy whine from you.

Gaz felt sick at the thought of what was going on in there. Biting down on his bottom lip so hard he drew blood he opened the door just a crack, thankful that the lights in the hallway were off as he peered into the room. And wished he hadn't. Because there you were, on your knees before James, naked, both your and James clothes scattered around the room, James thick fingers tangled in your hair as he thrust into your mouth. your hands on James thighs, his length being forced down your throat.

"Th-that's it." James growled, his eyes squeezed shut, head thrown back, exposing his throat to Gaz, who fought the urge to barge in there and rip it out. Imagining the look of terror on his face as blood sprayed all around the room. "Taking me so fucking good, you fucking whore."

Gaz clenched his jaw so hard he swore his teeth would crack. With a low guttural growl James came down your throat before pulling your roughly off his slick cock, a few more spurts of cum hitting your face. James chuckled. "You at you," he cooed, smirking down at you as you fought to catch your breath. "A desperate little slut, you think anyone would ever have you if they saw you like this? Would Kyle?"

Gaz watched as you flinched at that, eyes widening when he heard a sharp slap, your head jerking to the side. "Answer me!"

"N-no..."

"Who would have you?" James asked. Fingers carding through your hair.

"Y-you, only you..." You choked out. Your back was to Gaz so he couldn't see the tears welling in your eyes, or he would have thrown away everything and dragged you out of there.

"You're right, get up, you're far from done." James told you, as he yanked you to your feet, and tossed you onto the bed with a squeak.

He had seen enough. Gaz forced himself away from the door, and headed out of the apartment. He needed to get you away from him. And soon Gaz would put his plan into motion...

***

Authors Notes- And that concludes Chapter Two of Cherish You. Yeah, I know a lot of people were probably hoping that Gaz would steal Y/N right then and there but yeah things are far from over. But I hope you enjoyed it.

[highwaytothedangerzone502]

Foxtrot Alpha Alpha - Chapter 21

Pairing: Hangman x Female OC

Word Count: 2529

Warnings: Swearing, grief, death

Summary: Hangman learned his lesson a long time ago to never show his true feelings when someone's words or actions hurt him. To do so showed weakness that could be exploited, and Seresin men couldn't show weakness. Of course, there was an exception to every rule, and Jake's always came in the form of women, three in particular: his mom, Juliette Kazansky, and the girl whose name he could no longer bring himself to speak. She was the girl that got away; she was his biggest 'what if' and his biggest regret; she would forever be the ghost that haunted his dreams. Jake believed that's where she'd stay, for he would surely never see her again after what he did.

Or so he thought.

Notes: This is the sequel to India Lima Yankee; I'm using the same callsign for the Female OC as in Ghost Story because I just really like it, but they are different characters; chapters in italics are flashbacks

Chapter Songs: Right Where You Left Me Everybody Does

****

Juliette

Of all things Ghost could've said, hearing Hangman nearly got her killed never crossed Juliette's mind, although it certainly explained Ghost's aversion to him and the guilt that seemed to engulf Hangman whenever she appeared. Juliette remembered all too well how the Daggers said Hangman got his name because he would allegedly leave them hanging and go solo, but now she wondered if the callsign originated from a darker place. 

"I'm sorry," Juliette said in embarrassment, ashamed for bringing the topic up despite Ghost's unwavering decision to remain silent on the subject whenever possible. "If you don't want to talk about it, you don't have to. I'm not going to push. I didn't realize-"

"No, no, it's okay. It was going to come up sooner or later." Ghost laughed dryly and shook her head. "The thing is, that's not why I'm upset with him. It'd make so much more sense if that was the reason, but it's not. For better or worse, I know Jake like the back of my hand, and what happened that day... he would never do something that would bring us harm; he made a grave miscalculation that day, and it had unintentional deadly consequences."

Juliette remembered the story Ghost had told her about her WSO, and suddenly, she put two and two together, feeling like an idiot for taking all this time to make the connection. "You're talking about Ghoul, aren't you?"

"Yeah." Ghost bent down to look under the plush rocking chair, studiously avoiding Juliette's gaze. "Back when I told you that she died and that it was a bad training accident, it wasn't a lie, but I didn't tell you the whole thing because I'd have to bring up Hangman, and I couldn't bring myself to speak of him because on top of being furious with him, I also missed him terribly, and it was an awful combination of emotions. Now, it feels stupid to still be so upset with him over the whole thing, but I can't move past it."

"What exactly did he do if you're not mad at him for nearly killing you?"

Ghost reached under the recliner and pulled out the English instructions for the crib. Sitting down, she placed them in front of her and Juliette and began grabbing the pieces for the first step. "Do you remember what happened?"

"Sort of," Juliette admitted, racking her brain for the story from so long ago. "I remember you had to eject, and Ghoul's parachute failed."

"We were in the middle of a training mission. Hangman and Phoenix acted as the enemy; Coyote and I were meant to get them. Phoenix took Coyote out first, but I managed to maneuver behind her right after. Hangman tried to fly between our planes to throw off the lock I was about to get on her, but he misjudged the distance and flew too close in front of me. I blew through his jetwash and lost control of the plane." Ghost wiped her nose with her sleeve and reached for the package of nails, ripping it open and taking out a handful that the instructions told her she needed. Juliette silently held the pieces in place while Ghost screwed them, waiting for her to continue. It took a few minutes before Ghost spoke again, her voice tinged with hurt and sorrow. "I honestly don't remember much after that. I have vague memories of the three of them shouting at me and Ghoul to eject, landing in the rough waters, trying to keep my and Ghoul's heads above the water despite the agonizing pain. I tried lugging us onto the raft, but I had no strength. It was either save myself and let Ghoul go or risk dying with her in the ocean, and I chose the latter. I wasn't-" Ghost's voice hitched- "I wasn't letting her go. I wasn't going to leave her."

"Annalise, I'm so sorry," Jules breathed, reaching for her friend's hand. The words sounded hollow and insincere despite Juliette meaning them wholeheartedly, but nothing could truly console someone who went through what Ghost did. "I can't imagine what that must've been like."

"I woke up in sick bay; I had a neck brace on, my chin bandaged up from when the force of the ejection pushed it into my chest, and a cast on my leg. It'd been fractured during the ejection process. Ghoul's parachute somehow got twisted and never fully opened. Almost every bone in her body broke from the impact of hitting the water. She died before I woke up. I never got to say goodbye, which was one of the hardest things to accept. I couldn't even get out of bed to try and say my apologies and farewells, dead or not, and God, I tried. I tried convincing anyone who would listen to me to help me out of that Godforsaken bed to go see her, but no one listened." Ghost kept her face hidden from view, but Juliette noticed the tears dripping onto her friend's black leggings. Ghost's voice shook now as she struggled to finish her story. "Cyclone visited me first. I'd never seen him so shaken and pale. He's the one who broke the news about Ghoul to me. He also told me that I'd briefly died too. I'd swallowed a lot of seawater without realizing it; it filled up my lungs, and I went into severe respiratory distress because of it. Flatlined and was clinically dead for a few minutes. It's weird- I had a harder time coming to terms with Ghoul's death than comprehending my own. I didn't believe Cyclone when he told me about Ghoul until Coyote visited me. His eyes were puffy and bloodshot, and that's when the truth finally hit me. He stayed at my bedside until I fell asleep and was there when I woke up. Phoenix, Warlock, and a few others dropped in to check on me, but the one person I wanted to see, the one person I needed, never did."

Juliette's shoulders sagged. "Hangman."

"Yeah. At first, I thought it was because he had a thing against hospitals ever since his mom died, but then I learned he'd gone to see Ghoul but not me. That... that one hurt, but I was willing to overlook it because it was Jake, and whether I wanted to admit back then or not, I loved him," Ghost confessed softly, turning the page of the instructions with shaking hands. "I even asked Coyote why Hangman hadn't visited me and to tell him to come see me, and Coyote always said he wasn't sure why, only that he relayed my message to Jake, but, of course, it made no difference. Jake never did. So I tried rationalizing all the reasons why he wouldn't see me and figured it had something to do with his mom, choosing to ignore the fact he had gone to see Ghoul. I convinced myself he'd be waiting for me when I left sick bay. Well, that day came, and Coyote was there, but Hangman wasn't. I wanted to cry. I wanted to cry so badly, but I wouldn't let anyone see that, not even Coyote, despite how well he knew me, and I think that's when the grief started turning into fury. I barely saw Hangman until the trial, and even in those few fleeting moments that I did, even when I purposefully sought him out to talk, he turned and burned to avoid me or came up with some stupid excuse before leaving, like he couldn't even stand to be around me. Do you want to know the first time he tried talking to me willingly?"

Juliette shook her head. "When?"

Ghost scoffed bitterly while wiping away her tears. "After he was cleared of any wrongdoing in the trial. After I defended him in front of the jury and the entire Navy. Then, and only then, did he try to talk to me of his own free will, and by then, I was done with him. I may have defended him wholeheartedly in court, but now I couldn't face him without this surge of anger immediately coursing through me. The worst thing is that I know what I did hurt him. I know that when he tried to approach me after the trial, and all I did was glare at him as I walked by and ignored his request to talk, I could see the pain in his eyes. It took all my willpower not to turn around and forgive him then and there because it was like kicking a puppy, and I knew he blamed himself for Ghoul's death, but my heart had been shattered by so many things in such a short time that the mere idea of letting him back into my life would lead me down the rabbit hole of why I'd kicked him out of it in the first place, followed by the same, gut-wrenching, heart-stopping pain as if it were the very first day of the accident, and I couldn't- I couldn't do it. I'd rather feel nothing than feel like that ever again."

Juliette wiped away her own tears, moved by the visible emotion of Ghost, someone she'd never seen cry over another person, let alone cry at all. "It's terrifying to give your heart and trust to someone after they broke it, especially when you love them the way I believe you loved Hangman. It's like giving someone a knife after they just stabbed you and trusting them not to do it again."

"Is that how you felt with Rooster when he came back?"

"Yeah..." What Juliette failed to add was that if they compared situations, she would be the Hangman in hers, and Rooster would be Ghost. Juliette had been the one to break Rooster's trust by keeping a life-altering secret from him, no matter the good reasons she had for doing so. However, now wasn't the time to tell Ghost that. Dredging up these memories had taken a toll on her that Juliette had never seen before in her friend, and she did not want to add to the stress of it all by trying to defend Hangman's actions. Perhaps at a later time...

"Everyone believes I hate him because he nearly got me killed, and I let them because outside of a handful of people that I can literally count on one hand, including you, they'd think it's stupid for me to hold this grudge against him because he ignored me while I was incapacitated. I can't explain why I had such a strong reaction to it other than I loved him, and he'd given no reason for me to suspect he'd leave me hanging when I needed him most. Even Jackie and my parents think it's ridiculous that I haven't spoken to him in all these years; they don't bring it up because I'm their daughter, but knowing they feel that way makes it all the worse and makes me feel like I'm being over-dramatic and a fool, and then I hate myself for feeling the way I do-" 

Ghost suddenly crumpled in on herself, bracing her elbows on her knees and burying her face into her hands in a futile attempt to hide her body-wracking sobs. Juliette scooted next to her friend as fast as her pregnant belly would allow her and pulled Ghost into a tight side hug. 

"Listen to me, Annalise-" Juliette said tenderly yet firmly- "it's okay to be hurt by what Hangman did; he made you feel abandoned during a time you needed him most. Add in the extreme trauma of what you went through- physically, mentally, and emotionally- I'm sure that had a part in how strongly you reacted to the situation, and that's okay, too, regardless of what others say. Do not hate yourself for feeling the way you do. No one else's opinion matters on the subject but yours. If you feel that you still need to be upset with him, then do that. Fuck everyone else."

Ghost pulled away and offered a tiny but grateful smile through her tears. "Thank you. You're the first person I've told all that too. Not even my parents and Jackie know all of it. Not the bit about feeling stupid and over-dramatic, at least. But I'm so sorry for dumping this all on you. We should be building cribs, not having an impromptu therapy session where it stresses you out and raises your blood pr-"

"No, no, no, you're not stressing me out. I'm glad you finally told me. Thank you for trusting me enough to tell everything."

"I would've told you dinner the day after I arrived, but I'd seen how close you and Jake were at the Hard Deck and didn't want to put you in this uncomfortable position where you felt like you had to choose one friend over another. That's not fair to you. You've already gotten dragged into our shit more than you should've."

"Actually, outside of the first night, you two have been relatively cordial around each other in front of everyone."

Ghost winced. "I was pretty brutal to him that night. I wasn't expecting him to be there and lashed out, which isn't an excuse, but I took a cheap shot with my 'watery grave' comment. I felt guilty the moment I said it." 

"We've all said things we regret. It happens, but I think you can come back from it if you ever want to make amends with him."

"Part of me does, part of me doesn't. Not going to lie, half of the reason I sounded so exhausted this morning is I was up half the night crying because of that dilemma. I don't know what to do, and I don't like not knowing things, no matter what it may be."

"And the other half?"

"I mean, it still was from crying, but I was missing Ghoul badly yesterday. For the past few years, I've celebrated her birthday by myself, but last night, Hangman and Coyote joined, and it reminded me of the good old times when it was us and Ghoul. I miss those times. I miss Hangman. He was my best friend. My home..." Juliette understood all too well the ache that Ghost spoke of, and she opened her mouth to empathize with her friend, but Ghost sniffled and said, "We should probably get a move on if we're to get one of these done before the boys get home?"

Recognizing Ghost's desire to shift topics of conversation for now, Juliette obliged and handed her the next piece of the crib. "Don't worry. Bradley and Jake are great partners in the air. On the ground, they're a walking disaster. I bet it'll take them at least an hour to get dinner. Probably longer."

The comment caused Ghost to chuckle, and the girls set to work building the crib. Juliette ensured none of their conversation included Hangman, namely for Ghost's sake, but her interest in the topic was piqued exponentially. There were two sides to every story, and now she had to learn Hangman's. 

****

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[an-aroaces-harem]

Ivy Chapter 9

DISCLAIMER: I just deepl and google translated my way through this because I wanted to know what’s going on, so there are definitely mistakes but I believe I managed the general gist of the story. Anyway, it’s just a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes. Morganatic Idol belongs to Cybird and ABC Frontier, Inc.

Rina: That's it.

I finished cleaning the room and exhaled.

(I've been able to get it done in a lot less time than in the beginning.)

This is thanks to time I have spent helping Ivy-san.

As soon as I think of that ... what happened at that meeting a few days ago comes to my mind again.

--flashback--

Ivy: We get along, sure, but it isn’t like that.

Ivy: Kawanaga-san thinks of me like a big brother.

Ivy: For me, she’s like a cute little sister.

--flashback end--

Rina: ... like a sister

(Not so long ago, I didn't mind being treated like that by Ivy-san.)

In fact, I was even glad to be familiar with him.

And yet, now that I'm aware of my feelings for him, it hurts so much.

(... stop. It's no use thinking about it. I need to focus on what I can do instead.)

I shake my head to shake off the sinking feeling.

(Well, I'll have to look into exe again today.)

(I've been spending a lot of time helping out for a while now and haven't gotten around to doing the research for the presentation ...)

With that in mind, I was looking for materials and found a CD stuffed into a box at the back of a shelf.

It appears to be a CD with sound data burned into it, and the title is written on the label of the case.

(It doesn't seem to be the name of an exe song. Let's give it a listen.)

I'm also allowed to use the room's audio when researching.

I immediately started playing it, and what I heard was Ivy-san's singing voice.

The direction is completely different from the cool, tension-filled songs of today's exe.

(But it's warm and gentle and fits Ivy-san's voice tremendously. It's a lovely song.)

... As I was listening to the music, the door of the room suddenly opened.

I turned around to see if Ivy-san had returned.

Hitaki-san was there.

Hitaki: Hey, you were there too.

Rina: Is there a problem, Hitaki-san?

Hitaki: I'm here to borrow some materials. Ivy-san told me it's fine.

When Hitaki-san entered the room, he seemed to notice the music playing in the room.

Hitaki: ... Oh, I know I've heard this somewhere before. This is an R2R song.

'R2R' ... I remember when I looked up exe during the presentation, that name came up.

Rina: I think that's the music unit that Ivy-san had before exe, isn't it?

Hitaki: Yes, it was a unit formed by Ivy-san and Eito-san. This is a hit song from that time.

Hitaki: I'm sure it quite well domestically, but by the looks of it, you don't know?

Rina: Yes ... I wasn't really into music.

Rina: I've only seen a few names when I looked up exe, but I don't know much about it.

Hitaki: If you're interested, I can tell you what I know.

Rina: I'd love to!

Hitaki: That's quite a quick answer. Do you want to know so much about Ivy-san?

Rina: What!? That's not why ...

Hitaki: Hmm, just kidding.

Hitaki: As I mentioned earlier, R2R is a duo unit consisting of Eito-san and Ivy-san.

Hitaki: He was very popular among young people because of his consistent singing ability and high level of music.

Rina: Certainly, it's a great song, too.

Rina: The atmosphere is quite different from that of today's exe.

Hitaki: R2R's songs are more melody-driven than exe's songs which are more rhythm-driven.

Hitaki: I heard that Ivy-san is writing the music now, but back then he and Eito-san were working on it together.

Hitaki: I guess the unit changed, and so did his musicality.

(I see what you mean. Maybe that's one of those things ...)

Hitaki: R2R was expected to go global, but ... the results didn't go well.

Hitaki: No matter how popular they were in Japan, they weren't accepted overseas.

Rina: ... I see.

(It's a really tough world ... after all those great songs.)

Hitaki: That's why Eito-san used his experience to start Aero Light Productions.

Hitaki: He's trying to raise the bar in the japanese music industry and create a group that can compete on a global level.

Rina: I see ...

I had heard that Sakura-san was a former musician, but I had no idea he had such deep thoughts.

And I didn't know that Ivy-san had a bitter experience of losing in front of the world's wall.

(Somehow I find that hard to believe, even though Ivy-san is now very active as an exe member.)

(I'm sure it must have been very frustrating and painful ...)

Hitaki: ... what are you thinking about? Maybe about Ivy-san?

Rina: Yes ... it is truly amazing that he has overcome so many setbacks and is doing so well.

Rina: I can't even imagine how much effort he had to put in to acquire the skills necessary to compete on the world stage.

Hitaki: That's right ... fufu, you're really all about Ivy-san. I'm a little jealous.

Rina: Eh?

Then I finally realized that Hitaki-san and I were getting awfully close.

Rina: U-uh ...?

Hitaki: Ah, sorry. I just thought it was kind of cute how you were trying so hard to care for Ivy-san.

Hitaki: I'd like to get a better look at that face.

With a sweet smile, Hitaki-san peeked at me.

Rina: I don't think I'm cute ...

(So close to my face ...!)

As I try to keep my distance, a large palm is placed on my shoulder.

Hitaki: Don't run away. I just want to talk to you more.

My resistance was suppressed and I was pulled towards Hitaki-san with a strong force.

Rina: Talk to me about what?

Hitaki: Remember what I said at our meeting the other day, that I wanted you to help me with Gem, not exe?

Rina: I remember. But I turned that down at the time, didn't I?

As I tried to turn away from his approaching face, Hitaki-san's palm gently touched my cheek.

The coolness of the air makes me shiver.

Hitaki: Would you please think about it again? I just can't give up.

Rina: Why are you so ...? I don't think Gem needs me.

Hitaki: You underestimate yourself. Your power is a wonderful thing.

Hitaki: In fact, the exe members were happy to see how well you did, weren't they?

Rina: B-but I ...

Hitaki: I know. You did your best for Ivy-san.

Hitaki: What's so special about Ivy-san?

Rina: !!

I froze at his words and looked up at him, stunned. Hitaki-san's smile deepened as his eyes seemed to see through everything.

Hitaki: ... you think of him like a big brother? I know you can count on him to be kind to you.

Rina: Y-yes ... I ...

... I feel like I have to affirm it, but my voice is stuck in my throat and won't come out.

Hitaki: Ivy-san also said that he thinks of you as a sister.

Rina: ...

Hitaki: It's a wonderful relationship, isn't it? ... But, really, is that enough for you?

Hitaki-san's hand was holding my shoulder, but before I knew it, it was around my waist.

A palm slides across my cheek, making me look up as I try to turn away.

Rina: Please let go of me ...

Hitaki: ... You should go to Gem. It would make you happier.

He was drawing closer.

Hitaki: I value your ability and would be willing to do great work with you if you would become a Gem exclusive.

Hitaki: I know we will be irreplaceable partners, both publicly and privately.

Rina: But I'm ...

Hitaki: And I don't think you're a little sister. You're very pretty and attractive woman who can be desperate for someone.

Hitaki: I'm not going to make you feel lonely by treating you like a child.

Rina: ...

The gently whispered words seemed to contain some kind of magical power.

Just as Hitaki-san's air was about to consume me ... the door to the room opened.

Ivy: Kawanaga-san ... and Hitaki?

When Ivy-san comes into the room, his eyes widen and he looks at me and Hitaki-san.

Rina: Ivy-san ...

My head cooled down at once. Quickly, I shake off Hitaki-san's hand and move away.

Rina: ...

I felt like I had to say something, but I was to upset to speak.

Ivy: ... You look pale. Calm down.

Seeing me, he lowered his eyebrows in concern.

(What should I do? I can't believe Ivy-san saw me in that position ...!)

Hitaki: Welcome back, Ivy-san. You're back earlier than I expected.

Ivy: I got the job done smoothly.

Ivy: I know Kawanaga-san is cleaning ... but what are you doing here?

Hitaki: I came to borrow some materials. Then I ran into her by chance and we had a little chat.

Hitaki: Right?

Rina: Y-yes ...

That's certainly not wrong.

But after being so close to him like that, and after he whispered those words to me ... I felt guilty for some reason.

(I know you saw me earlier, Ivy-san. I hope he didn't think I was weird.)

(Or do you think I'm just like a little sister and don't care ...?)

I can't look at Ivy-san's face.

What Hitaki-san said to me earlier is going through my mind.

Rina: ... and I'm done cleaning for the day.

Rina: Excuse me!

I was so frustrated that I ran away from the place.

Hitaki: Oh, she got away. Fufu ... She's really funny.

Hitaki: She's as honest as a puppy. Her expression changes from one moment to the next, and she's easy to read.

Hitaki: I can see why Ivy-san adores her.

Ivy: Hitaki ... Don't mess with Kawanaga-san as a joke.

Ivy: She's so pure. She's working so hard in an environment she's not used to.

Hitaki: I'm not kidding ...

Hitaki: Does that mean I can ask you a question if I'm not joking?

Ivy: What?

Hitaki: As she's a housekeeper, you're in charge of her, and you spend the most time together.

Hitaki: My connection to her is certainly tenous by comparison.

Ivy: Ah. So get to the point ...

Hitaki: But that doesn't matter. I like her.

Ivy: What did you say?

Hitaki: I recognize her abilities and understand her feelings ... much more than you do.

Ivy: ... What does that mean?

Hitaki: I mean it as it is ... If you're going to be like that forever, I'll take her.

Ivy: ...

Hitaki: ... Sometimes the most precious things that we take for granted can suddenly disappear one day.

Hitaki: Please be careful.

Ivy: !

Hitaki: ... then I'll be off. Excuse me.

Aloof, Hitaki walked out of the room.

The remaining Ivy stands alone, wide-eyed and stunned.

Ivy: ... The important things we take for granted will cease to be ...

He mutters in a small voice and turns around.

Ivy: ...

What are those eyes, shaking with pain, reflecting?

No one else knew about it.

⤷ next chapter

[casspurrjoybell-29]

Healing Ties - Chapter 45 - Part 1

*Warning Adult Content*

They moved a lot faster now that Harrison was with them.

He set a mage on each of his broad, hairy shoulders and his long stride greatly increased their pace.

Yore followed in wolf form.

Everything hurt but he was determined not to be the one slowing them down.

Life had been painful before but it felt different now with the promises Fanner had made him in mind.

One day, be it months or years from now, he might once again know what it was like to lay in a lover's arms, truly relaxed and free of pain or worry.

Well, pain, anyway.

He would still have his responsibilities and they made having no worries a distant fantasy.

That was fine, though.

Worries and responsibilities had their place in life and he was well practised at managing them.

It was Fanner and Duran who were the ones to finally ask to stop for sleep, though Yore had been teetering on the edge of it himself for some time.

They'd been up nearly a full day and night by this point.

They couldn't keep going forever with no rest.

They found a lake to set up camp next to and while the rest of them were still gathering sticks for a fire, Harrison plunged himself into the water and started hunting for fish.

They seemed to mistake his shaggy fur for a good place to hide and as soon as they felt safe, Harrison would plunge one of his paws in, skewering them with his claws.

He ate the first few whole and raw while still standing in the lake but then he seemed to remember the rest of them and reluctantly started tossing a few up onto the bank.

With the fire started and Harrison wading up the river that fed into the lake in search of more fish, Yore dove into the water to clean off and try to loosen out some of his joints.

The latter was a fool's errand in cool water, perhaps but he just knew that as soon as he was still for too long every joint in his body would start locking up.

He could hear Fanner and Duran talking, hear Fanner bring up, in his own coy way, that he was going to join Yore in the lake.

Duran assured him that his eyes would be aimed elsewhere.

Yore kept his back to Fanner as Fanner waded into the lake, giving him the opportunity to conceal himself beneath the water.

Yore had been naked this entire time, of course.

Nudity was normal for him and by this point the mages seemed to have gotten used to it as well.

Fanner's history was more complicated, though.

What that would mean for him, Yore didn't yet know but he had to assume the situation was a delicate one.

Yore turned just as Fanner reached him.

The setting sun set Fanner's golden hair ablaze.

His body was slender and soft and his eyes were a bright, light blue, filled with uncertainty at war with determination.

Fanner placed a wet hand on Yore's chest and watched the water that trickled down.

"What do boyfriends do?"

"That's... a broad question. I'm not sure there's a simple answer to it."

"Duran says it's just like being someone's friend, except you also have sex."

"It can be that, I suppose," Yore said. "That's certainly an aspect of it. Personally, I'd describe it more as a partnership. An agreement that the two of you are a team, tackling life together."

"Oh. Yes. I like that."

Fanner scooped more water up just so that he could trickle it down Yore's chest.

"They didn't really teach us about anything like that at Milaine House. Partners were the last thing we were meant to be. Or well. I guess we were taught to be good at being whatever someone else needed? Maybe I am qualified. Maybe the only difference is that we were taught to expect nothing in return."

"I'm not sure that's quite the same thing. You're not supposed to change yourself to be what someone else wants. Just, you know. Be yourself while supporting and being supported by, your partner."

"I'd like to be your boyfriend. I don't know if I'd be a very good one but I'd like to try. If you haven't changed your mind."

"I haven't changed my mind. I'd like that very much."

Fanner nodded.

He was silent for a long moment, just staring at Yore's chest.

"So. That means you can do whatever you want."

Yore's head tilted to the side.

"Do whatever I want?"

Fanner lifted his arms out of the water and gestured to his body.

"Ah, I see. No, that isn't how that works. Your body still belongs to you. Even if we were married, that wouldn't change. Nothing happens unless we both want it to. Unless we both give consent."

"Oh. Is it bad that I've been touching your chest, then?"

Yore let out a quiet huff of laughter.

"No, you're fine. You can touch my chest all you like." "

Okay," Fanner said. "You can also touch my chest."

Yore rubbed his palm on Fanner's chest.

"Thank you."

"Hmm," Fanner said. "A good Companion would be passive and wait for instructions unless told to do otherwise."

"Yes."

Fanner looked up at Yore.

"Can I kiss you, Yore?"

"Absolutely," Yore said as he leant down.

Fanner's lips met Yore's, soft and careful, moving with a flow that stuttered and fell apart as soon as Yore challenged it.

Every time Yore let him take the lead, he brought them back to the steady, practised rhythm, so Yore stopped pushing.

If that was where Fanner felt safe, there was no need to force him away from it before he was ready.

Leaning down was starting to get uncomfortable, so Yore sat instead, dragging Fanner onto his lap.

The water reached their chests, murky enough to mostly conceal anything below.

Fanner let out a shaky exhale as he broke away from the kiss.

"Can I touch you? I mean, you know, can I..."

"Yes."

Fanner's hand ventured under the water and snuck between them, finding Yore's cock.

Not counting the last time Fanner had touched him and Yore really did not want to count that this was the first time another person had touched his cock in years.

He let out a long sigh that ended in a groan as Fanner slowly stroked him.

Fanner's gaze was intent on Yore's face.

"What does it feel like?"

"Would you like me to show you?"

Fanner nodded.

Fanner jolted slightly at the first brush of Yore's fingertips and Yore froze, worried something was wrong but after a moment Fanner squirmed his hips and Yore tried again.

This time he didn't move away, but his ass clenched where it rested against Yore's thigh and his hand gripped Yore's shoulder.

"Sensitive?" Yore asked.

Fanner nodded.

"Maybe I should have tried masturbating first. I forgot I'm allowed to."

"You're allowed to like you're allowed to breathe. It's nobody's place to tell you that you can't or even that you can. Nobody has any authority over that except for you. Your body is yours."

Fanner's hand squeezed down on Yore's shoulder as Yore gave his cock a long, slow stroke.

"I think I like sharing it."

[na-ta-sh-aa]

I am speechless at the beauty of this chapter and the entire story! I loved how you made this series so complex, full of details and nuances, legends and mysteries, it was a masterpiece!🫶🏼

“In order for a sea person to claim their chosen mate, they have to drag their partner down, down, down beneath the waves, cutting them off from air until they’re to the point of death.”

So was Cole looking for his chosen mate?

“Skipper,” Bob murmured, brow furrowing as he took in your trembling form. “What happened? Are you okay? Where’s Jake?”

Good thing Bob arrived on time!

“It’s his frenzy,” you murmured, the pieces clicking together the more you thought about it. “Jake told me that the longer a sea person goes without taking a mate, the more dangerous the process becomes. The frenzy causes sea people to lose their control right?”

Ooh I love how all the pieces are fitting together!

“Jake had been reluctant to let you go or out of his sight once he knew you were in danger, insisting on your current position once you all had made it back to the house.”

“Jake didn’t look at you, but squeezed you tighter to him as he fixed your best friend with a warning glare. No one was taking you away from him.”

I loved how much Jake tries to protect her and how without speaking he made his intentions perfectly clear.

“The room was silent once again as he finished his explanation. Your eyes darted around to each of them, waiting for someone to contradict him. When no one did, you let out a sigh. You knew the goal was to keep you safe, but the thought of leaving Jake behind filled your mouth with a bitter taste, and you knew that leaving wasn’t an option.”

It's breaking my heart, it seemed like everything was so perfect between Jake and Skipper, that they could be together and now everything has gotten complicated😭

“He’s right.”

“I don’t want you to leave,” he murmured, resting his forehead against yours, “but if it’s the only way to keep you safe until this passes, then so be it.”

The fact that Jake is willing to let her go so she can be safe is truly beautiful and shows how much she means to him🥹

“Where are you going?” He asked, eyes immediately glaring at the front door as he listened for any sign of danger.

“To the bathroom,” you scowled. “I think I can do that by myself, don’t you?”

“I love you,” you said, never breaking eye contact. Jake’s breath hitched at your words, eyes shining as he studied you. He reached up to grab your hand, turning his face into it as he kissed your palm once, twice.”

Skipper what do you have in mind? Please don't let it be anything dangerous!

“I know you’re out there!” You hollered, watching the waves as they lapped against one another. “I know you’re looking for me too. I’m right here, Cole! Come and find me.”

“You waited, still watching the water for any sign of a disturbance. Minutes passed, and you knew the others had discovered your disappearance by now. Another pang of guilt rocked through you, but you remained where you were. After a moment, you stood, stepping back onto the sand and facing the water. With a determined breath, you stepped forward. Then again. And again, until finally you came right to where the water stopped.”

“If you won’t come to me,” you shouted, eyes flickering across the waves as the sky around you grew darker, “then I guess I’ll just have to come to you.”

You wrote this part in an incredible way, you managed to convey so many emotions and make me anxious! and Skipper really has courage to spare!

“Wanted…a mate.”

I feel a little sorry for Cole, he certainly killed people but probably in his state he no longer realized what he was doing?

“Jake’s eyes glowed a richer green than Cole’s, fury so clear on his face that it almost distracted you from where his pupils were now drawn into slits of their own. His teeth were bared against Cole, hand raised to claw at him again should he move.”

Jake🥹

“It felt wrong to leave Cole there, and you suspected it had a lot to do with the man who wrapped his arms around your shoulders in a bid to steer you away.”

Is it because Skipper is afraid that this will happen to Jake too if he waits too long?

“It’s not,” he told you quietly, placing a chaste kiss to your forehead. “It won’t be.”

“The promise between you two was a silent one, but one that you accepted, finally allowing Jake to pull you along to catch up with the others as police sirens sounded off in the distance.”

This sentence makes me think that maybe the time has come for the two of them to go through the next step of the process regarding the claiming bite (unless I'm wrong and I've gotten confused regarding the process😂)

I really can't find the words to describe how much I enjoyed this chapter. It was fantastic, you managed to create such a tense atmosphere, full of details that left me in suspense the whole time. I know I may have already said it, but the way you managed to create all the mystery around this story, how every time I thought I had identified the one who committed the murders you added details that made me collapse all my certainties, it was truly wonderful! Cole's revelation, confession and end made me feel a little sorry for him, of course what he did was wrong and had become dangerous, but knowing that his intentions were to find his mate makes me a little feel sorry for him. Knowing that the story is ending makes me a little sad, but I'm excited and can't wait to see what's still in store for Jake and Skipper! This was so beautiful, gorgeous and awesome!💗✨

Meet Me at the Sea: Chapter Twelve

Meet Me at the Sea: Chapter Twelve

Pairing: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Reader

Summary: Your best friend, Bob Floyd, had insisted you join him for the summer at his family's home along the Carolina coasts. You had been hesitant at first, but ultimately agreed to his request. Now, here you were in a new town with strange locals who spoke in hushed whispers and cryptic retellings about glistening scales, glowing eyes, and haunting songs that echoed from the sea. You didn't believe them at first, but when you wake up on the beach one morning after having fallen overboard the night before, you can't help but think that maybe you hadn't imagine the strong arms and deep, green eyes of the man that had saved you.

Content Warnings: Panic attack, Mentions of dog attack, Tense Daggers, Arguing, Skipper sneaking away, Cursing, Monster appearance, Crying, Begging, Murder confessions, Execution, Gunshot, Descriptions of blood. I think that's it, but please let me know if I missed anything!

Word Count: 4.5k

Series Masterlist || Moodboards || Playlist || Jake "Hangman" Seresin Tag List

When you were little, your grandmother had a dog. It was a sweet thing, always eager for pets and treats. You always liked that dog, but the dog tended to be a bit skittish.

You remember walking into your grandmother’s living room one day, no older than five at the time, and seeing the dog - Mitzi you think her name was. You had walked up to her, paying no mind to the fact that she was sleeping, and you stuck your little face by her to greet her. You hadn’t meant any ill by it, but the dog had snapped at you anyway, drawing blood and a screech from your tiny lips. Your parents and grandmother had come running into the room, finding you in tears and Mitzi trying to console you.

Of course, you knew that it hadn’t been the dog’s fault, but it didn’t stop you from shying away from her every time you saw her after that, afraid of the teeth of the otherwise sweet as could be creature that always happily greeted you.

Now you stood on the boardwalk, the ringing in your ears drowning out the laughter and chatter around you, sending you spiraling into a panic as you came to terms with what had just happened. You knew that it hadn’t just been Mandy or Jake to sing to you, but you had allowed yourself to be lulled into a false sense of security, sure that Mandy had been the one to kill the others.

After all, she had tried to kill you.

Your breath came out in ragged gasps as your body went into panic mode, your fingers and toes growing numb as you continued to stare after the space where Cole just stood. He had been the one to tear Mandy apart, but why? To protect you? Why had he killed those other girls then?

In order for a sea person to claim their chosen mate, they have to drag their partner down, down, down beneath the waves, cutting them off from air until they’re to the point of death.

Your breath caught in your throat. Had he been trying to claim them? Is that why he had been singing to you? To drag you beneath the waves of the ocean as well? Your head whipped around to the darkening blue just passed the rails of the boardwalk, the thunderous sound of the waves crashing against the shore sounding more ominous with each passing moment.

Skipper.

Your breathing picked up once more, your hands shaking as you froze, vision becoming pin points as you fought to remain standing, your knees threatening to buckle.

“Skipper!”

A hand grabbed your shoulder and you let out a terrified shriek, drawing the attention of several people around you. You whipped back around, tears in your eyes as they met familiar blue.

“Skipper,” Bob murmured, brow furrowing as he took in your trembling form. “What happened? Are you okay? Where’s Jake?”

Your eyes darted around the crowd, several people glancing over at you with hushed whispers and concerned looks. You let out a choked sob as you finally realized that you were safe. For the moment anyway.

“Bob,” you whimpered, a breeze alerting you to the fact that your tears had long since spilled over. Your bottom lip trembled as the tension finally broke, and you threw yourself in his arms, sobs wracking your body as he held you.

“Skipper, what happened?” He asked again, firmer this time as he ran a comforting hand over your back.

“It was Cole,” you managed to get out, pulling away to look at him, shaking your head frantically. “It wasn’t Mandy. At least, not all those other girls. He dragged them down and something happened, and-”

“Honey, slow down,” Bob said, gripping your shoulders and leaning down to look you in your eyes. “Take a deep breath, can you do that for me?”

You nodded, following his lead as he took in a deep breath through his nose, holding it for a beat, and then letting it out through his mouth. He had you repeat the process a couple more times until you stopped shaking, some clarity returning to you.

“Okay, good,” he smiled, rubbing your arms. “Now tell me what happened.”

“I ran into Cole,” you started again, “except that I didn’t know it was him at first.”

You stopped, pursing your lips as you stared at your best friend.

“Bob, he sang to me.”

“He sang to you?” Bob balked, eyes growing wide as he looked around. “Where is he now? Has he been singing to you this whole time?”

“Yes,” you nodded, taking his hand. “This whole time we thought it was just Mandy, but Bob, it was him too. He’s been calling to me since I ran into him that day at the tilt-o-whirl. He’s the one that’s been killing all of the girls.”

“Why would he do that?” He asked, more to himself than to you. You gripped onto Bob’s forearms, drawing his attention back towards you.

“It’s his frenzy,” you murmured, the pieces clicking together the more you thought about it. “Jake told me that the longer a sea person goes without taking a mate, the more dangerous the process becomes. The frenzy causes sea people to lose their control right?”

“Right,” Bob answered hesitantly, the wheels in his head turning as you continued on with your theory.

“He’s losing control, Bob,” you breathed, looking past him and back towards the water. “He doesn’t have a mate, and he’s trying to take one, but he keeps losing control and killing them. He’s going to keep going until he finds someone to be his mate.”

“Not someone, Skipper,” Bob frowned, worry shining bright in his eyes as he looked up at you. “You.”

“What?” You blinked, confusion sweeping over you.

“He’s been calling for you, Skipper. Ever since he laid eyes on you, it’s been you that he wants. He’s not going after anyone else,” he hissed, hand grabbing your forearm and scanning the crowd wildly. “We need to find Jake and the others. Come on.”

Without waiting for a response, he started dragging you through the crowd, the both of you searching wildly for your friends.

“There!” You shouted at him, pointing to your right towards the haunted house attraction. You saw Bob let out a sigh of relief as he pushed through the crowd with you in tow to stand before your friends.

“Hey!” Nat chirped, smile dropping when she saw the two of you looking worse for wear.

“Woah,” Reuben said with a whistle. “What’s up with the two of you? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Which can’t be because we haven’t even gone through the haunted house yet,” Mickey grinned, pointing at the building behind him. Nat rolled her eyes before turning her attention back to the two of you.

“What happened?” She asked, eyes searching yours. “Where’s Jake?”

Before you could answer, a hand came up to tug you away from Bob, the bespectacled man moving to protest until he saw who it was, relaxing only a fraction.

“There you are,” Jake drawled, placing a kiss to your temple. “You disappeared on me.”

You looked up at him, and his demeanor instantly shifted from easygoing to alert.

��What happened?” He demanded, eyes glancing at your friends.

“We were just about to get there when you interrupted,” Nat scowled, hands on her hips as she glared at the blond. Jake muttered something under his breath but turned his attention back to you expectantly.

“Skipper is in danger,” Bob said, eyes hard and serious as the words left him. Jake stiffened next to you, the sound of a low growl emanating from his imposing frame.

“What do you mean she’s in danger?” He hissed, green eyes narrowing at your best friend. You turned to face him fully, hands grasping his tightly so that he looked at you.

“It’s Cole,” you breathed, “he’s been singing to me. He’s been singing to me this whole time, and we all just thought it was Mandy. It’s his frenzy, Jake. He’s losing control.”

You cursed internally at the way your voice cracked at the end, emotion overtaking you. You thought about Jake and how close he was to being in the same position as Cole. Even now, you could see how desperately he was clinging onto his control, the greens of his eyes glowing at the very thought that you might be taken from him. You reached up to cup his cheek, pulling his attention back to the surface and away from the depths of his inward spiral. He blinked at you, confusion warring with desperation as you stared at him.

An unspoken message passed between the two of you, and Jake let out a long sigh, reaching up to place his hand over yours.

“Let’s get you out of here.”

“That’s the dumbest fucking idea I’ve ever heard,” Nat snapped, glaring at Bradley as he leaned back on the couch, tossing his hands up in defeat.

“If you’ve got a better one, I’d love to hear it,” he growled back.

All of you were seated around Jake and Bradley’s living room, a common spot for you all to gather these days. You wished it was under different circumstances, but it seemed that you were once again the center of discussion.

“We could just leave?” Bob suggested, arms crossed over his chest where he sat perched on the end of the coffee table. A low growl ripped through the form beneath you, and you squeezed the arms wrapped around your waist.

Jake had been reluctant to let you go or out of his sight once he knew you were in danger, insisting on your current position once you all had made it back to the house.

Jake didn’t look at you, but squeezed you tighter to him as he fixed your best friend with a warning glare. No one was taking you away from him.

“That might not be a bad idea,” Reuben muttered, eyes darting up to look at you. You could feel the anger radiating off of your boyfriend, sighing as Reuben averted his gaze once more.

“We know you don’t like the idea,” Nat started, running a hand over her face as she stared at the blond, “but we’re running out of options here, Jake. She’ll be safest away from here.”

“One of us will be with her at all time,” Mickey offered, flinching at the snarl that tore through Jake. Your brow furrowed as you looked around at your friends.

“I’m missing something,” you said after a beat of silence. “Why are you acting like Jake can’t come with me? What am I missing?”

Everyone avoided your gaze before Bradley rolled his eyes.

“He can’t come with you,” he groused, shooting annoyed looks at all of his friends, “because his frenzy is about to reach its peak, and the ocean is the only place where he can go to release some of that energy without hurting anyone. If he leaves with you, it’s a recipe for disaster and we all risk exposure.”

The room was silent once again as he finished his explanation. Your eyes darted around to each of them, waiting for someone to contradict him. When no one did, you let out a sigh. You knew the goal was to keep you safe, but the thought of leaving Jake behind filled your mouth with a bitter taste, and you knew that leaving wasn’t an option.

“He’s right.”

You jumped, turning as much as you could to look at Jake. A solemn expression sat on his face, eyes pensive before locking on yours. You couldn’t help the stab of betrayal that washed over you, and it was obvious that he noticed.

“I don’t want you to leave,” he murmured, resting his forehead against yours, “but if it’s the only way to keep you safe until this passes, then so be it.”

“But what about you?” You implored, feeling the tears kiss the back of your eyes once more. “You shouldn’t have to go through all this alone. I can stay and-”

“Not an option,” he whispered, a wry, humorless smile tugging on his lips. “I need you safe more than I need you here. Don’t you worry about me, angelfish. I’ll be just fine.”

He grazed his nose against yours, breathing you in for a second before pulling away and fixing your friends with a hard stare.

“She’ll need to go inland.”

And with that, they began to discuss plans to take you away from North Island. A feeling of unease and restlessness filled you. How could they expect you to just up and leave? Did you really get no say in what happened? No. Jake might be okay with this, but you weren’t.

While your friends planned, you began to form a scheme of your own.

An hour passed, and you moved to stand, Jake’s arms stopping you as you let out a huff.

“Where are you going?” He asked, eyes immediately glaring at the front door as he listened for any sign of danger.

“To the bathroom,” you scowled. “I think I can do that by myself, don’t you?”

Jake gave you a sheepish look before helping you to your feet, hands on your waist to steady you as you stood in between his legs. The two of you stayed like that, his hands on you as you cupped his jaw in yours.

“I love you,” you said, never breaking eye contact. Jake’s breath hitched at your words, eyes shining as he studied you. He reached up to grab your hand, turning his face into it as he kissed your palm once, twice.

“I love you too,” he smiled, meeting your eyes once more. Your heart swelled before a wave of guilt washed over you, and Jake must have sensed the change because his smile dropped and his brow furrowed. He moved to say something, but you stopped him with a kiss to his forehead.

You pulled away from him, moving down the hall like you were going to use the restroom. The voices in the living room faded slightly, and you paused just out of sight. You waited for a moment before your gaze shifted from the light pouring into the hall to the dimming light filtering through the back door. As quietly as you could, you opened the screen door, slipping out onto the porch and into the night.

You weren’t sure where to go, but you knew you needed to be far away from other people. So you walked the length of the beach, coming to a rocky inlet that was sheltered by the surrounding cliffs. The waves crashed gently against the shore, coaxing you to step closer.

You made a seat out of one of the flat rocks along the shoreline, crossing your legs as well as you could in the dress you still wore. You wished you could have changed, but the group had been in such a hurry to get you away and to somewhere safe, that a change of clothes had fallen by the wayside.

Now here you sat, watching the sun dip below the shoreline, the raucous from the festival still heard even this far out. Still, you waited on the rocks even as the cold seeped through your dress and to your bones, sending a shiver up your spine. The air was calm and unassuming, a stray gull crying out overhead.

“I know you’re out there!” You hollered, watching the waves as they lapped against one another. “I know you’re looking for me too. I’m right here, Cole! Come and find me.”

You waited, still watching the water for any sign of a disturbance. Minutes passed, and you knew the others had discovered your disappearance by now. Another pang of guilt rocked through you, but you remained where you were. After a moment, you stood, stepping back onto the sand and facing the water. With a determined breath, you stepped forward. Then again. And again, until finally you came right to where the water stopped.

“If you won’t come to me,” you shouted, eyes flickering across the waves as the sky around you grew darker, “then I guess I’ll just have to come to you.”

You took a step into the water, feet sinking further into the sand as you shuffled through. Stopping again once the water reached your knees, you looked around for any sign of life. It wasn’t until your third sweep that you spotted him, and your heart stopped.

Cole’s eyes glowed an inhuman green, unblinking as they stared at you. Everything from his nose downwards was hidden beneath the water, but you saw him. It unnerved you how he didn’t move, simply content in that moment to watch you.

“I wanted to talk to you,” you called, hoping you could be heard over the crash of the waves against the rocks. A wave crashed against you, sending you teetering back a little bit as you lost your balance. You stretched your arms out to steady yourself, looking down to frown at the water around you. Looking back up, Cole was gone and your heart dropped. It was only a moment though before he resurfaced, just a foot or two away from you this time, and your heart nearly lept out of your chest at the sight of him.

He looked even worse this close up, olive skin looking pale and shrunken as he stood in the water to face you. The pupils in his eyes were almost slits at this point, and you could see the webbed claws of his hands resting on the surface of the water. He looked like the stuff out of nightmares.

“Cole?” You questioned, unsure if he would even recognize you in his current state. He cocked his head to the side, seeming to contemplate you with a series of clicks that didn’t sound unlike something a dolphin would make. You swallowed around the lump in your throat, continuing, “Why don’t we go back to the beach, huh? We can talk there?”

He stayed silent, still watching as you retreated to the beach, keeping your eyes on him as you moved. Finally, he followed after you, moving like something out of one of those b-grade horror movies Bob made you watch sophomore year.

You let out a small sigh of relief as your feet finally left the water, placing you back on dry land. You retreated a couple more steps until Cole stood in the surf, the two of you only three feet apart now.

“You didn’t mean to hurt those girls, right?” You asked softly, and a flicker of recognition flashed in his eyes before turning into something akin to sorrow.

“Wanted…a mate.”

The change in his voice startled you as well. It was a mixture of a gurgle and a rasp, once again highlighting how inhuman the man before you had become.

“I know,” you murmured, tears stinging at your eyes. “It’s your frenzy, right? It’s making you lose control.”

“Frenzy,” he hissed out, cocking his head to the side once more as he regarded you. Something flickered in his eyes, and he took a step towards you, sending you two steps back. Your heartbeat thundered in your ears as he sneered at you, and you caught a glimpse of his teeth. Teeth that just earlier that evening were normal - human. Now, they were serrated and sharp like a shark’s. You dared to scan the rest of him now that he was completely out of the water, and you noticed now that slits had opened up along the column of his throat. Gills.

“Is this what happens when you don’t take a mate?” You asked him, heart clenching in your chest. “You don’t just lose yourself, huh? You become something you were never meant to be.”

“Skipper,” he said, voice ringing out as he used his song, and a wave of dizziness ran through you, hitting you like a brick wall. You fought against it, shaking your head and clamping your hands over your ears as he went on.

“Need you, Skipper. Come away with me.”

You shook your head again, willing yourself to stay put, but his song that close? It was almost impossible to resist.

“Please.”

Your hands fell to your sides as you quickly lost the battle for your senses, gaze fogging over as you gave in. You took all of one step towards him before the sound of a snarl mixed with what sounded like the call of a whale rang out.

Hands ripped you back before slashing towards Cole, drawing out a pained cry from the man as he fell to the sand, a snarl twisting his lips as he glared up at the person that stood between you and him.

Jake’s eyes glowed a richer green than Cole’s, fury so clear on his face that it almost distracted you from where his pupils were now drawn into slits of their own. His teeth were bared against Cole, hand raised to claw at him again should he move.

“Mine,” Jake growled, the rumble coming from deep within him as he stood over the other man. Cole’s eyes darted to yours, and your heart broke at what you saw.

For a moment, the man you knew before shone through, tears lining his eyes as he looked at you desperately, pleading with you. Without thinking, you placed a hand on Jake’s arm, pushing it out of your way as you moved to kneel down beside Cole.

“Skipper.”

You turned to see Bob and Bradley standing a few feet back, the two FBI agents standing next to them. The older of the two had a grim, sorrowful expression on his face as he watched Cole and the younger looked like he was still coming to terms with what was happening before him. Bob looked like he was about to rip you up from the ground himself while Bradley watched you with an unreadable expression on his face. You gave the two of them a reassuring smile as you turned your attention back to the man in front of you.

Slowly, gently, you cupped his face in your hands so that he looked at you, and for a moment you were reminded of your grandmother’s dog. A sweet thing, but perhaps not meant to be around other people.

Tears flowed freely down Cole’s cheeks as he watched you, the man you knew resurfacing once more. You stroked your thumbs carefully over the apples of his cheeks, wiping away his tears. A sob wracked through him as he closed his eyes, face pinched in pain. You wrapped your arms around him then, holding him to you.

“I’m sorry,” he cried, quietly at first. His shoulders shook as he began to cry harder, his voice raising in pitch as he continued. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to! I just wanted the pain to stop, and I-I-I didn’t mean to wait this long. I thought I had more time! I thought that I could pick a mate, but every time I tried to bond with them, it went wrong!”

His tears soaked through the fabric of your dress now, and you were only vaguely aware of the tears that streamed down your own face.

“I didn’t want to hurt them,” he whispered, clinging to you.

“I know,” you whispered back, nodding against the top of his head.

“Make the pain go away.”

“Cole,” you trailed off, looking helplessly at the men around you. He shook his head, pulling away from you.

“Not like that,” he rasped, the look in his eyes growing farther and farther away, and you knew that the moment of lucidness was coming to an end. “It’s too late for that now. There’s only one way out for me.”

Your breath caught in your throat, and you moved to argue, but he shook his head.

“I’ll do it.”

You turned to see the older of the two FBI agents, Kazansky if you remembered right, stepping forward to stand beside Cole. You hesitated, looking down at the man in your arms. He gave you a reassuring nod, letting you go as Jake helped you to your feet. The blond pulled you back to stand with the others and you watched as Cole readjusted himself to kneel with his back straight. Kazansky moved to stand behind him, pulling out his service weapon and aiming. A shudder ran through Cole as the monster within came crawling back to the surface, his eyes darting to you.

“I’m sorry,” he sang out, claws digging into the sand. “Please.”

The shot rang out, and you let out a startled cry as Cole’s lifeless body slumped to the ground, crashing with a deafened thump. Your hand flew to your mouth as you stared, watching his blood soak the sand around him and turning it a sickening maroon.

Kazansky holstered his weapon, glancing up at your little group with a purse of his lips as his partner, Simpson, walked cautiously over to him.

“Kerner is going to be pissed when he hears about this. He loves crazy shit,” the younger man muttered. Kazansky scowled at him before turning his attention back towards the four of you.

“You kids should get out of here,” he grunted. “Somebody was bound to hear that shot and call someone. You don’t want to be here when the cavalry shows up.”

“What are you going to say happened?” Bradley asked, eyeing Cole’s corpse. Kazansky shook his head with a sigh.

“You let us worry about that,” he replied. “Now get.”

The boys didn’t wait to be told a third time, moving to leave, but you stayed rooted on the spot. It felt wrong to leave Cole there, and you suspected it had a lot to do with the man who wrapped his arms around your shoulders in a bid to steer you away.

“There’s nothing more you can do for him, Angel,” he murmured, thumb stroking over the skin of your arm as he pulled you along gently.

“That could have been you,” you whispered, and he froze. It was true. Jake was nearing the the point of no return with his own frenzies. He knew it, you knew it, everyone knew it. His hand came up to cup your cheek and you finally looked up at him. His eyes swam with an indiscernible emotion has he studied you.

“It’s not,” he told you quietly, placing a chaste kiss to your forehead. “It won’t be.”

The promise between you two was a silent one, but one that you accepted, finally allowing Jake to pull you along to catch up with the others as police sirens sounded off in the distance.

The weeks of danger, terror, and uncertainty were finally over and behind you.

A/N: Only one chapter left! How exciting!! Anyway, gentle reminder that if you would like to receive updates on my stories or other content I create to follow @sailoraviator-library and turn on post notifications! As always, reblogs and comments are greatly appreciated! You can also find me on AO3 under sailor_aviator. Until next time! Happy Valentine's Day!!

[luxaryllis]

Hetalia!Switzerland with TWST Dorm Leaders: Part 2

Note: Here is the long awaited Part 2!!!

So sorry for the long wait-

Anyway, I'll keep the note short so you can go on!!

Part 1 contains Heartslabyul, Savanaclaw, Octavinelle, and Scarabia. While Part 2 (this one) contains Pomefiore, Ignihyde, and Diasomnia.

Part 1 | Part 2 (here)

Again, please note that this was not meant or intended to offend anyone. And that all mentions of 'Switzerland' refer to Aph Switzerland/Basch, unless said otherwise, the same with other countries mentioned. Please tell me if you found anything here offensive and I will try to revise it. Also, I will say it again, this was written with a platonic relationship in mind, as it didn't specify whether you wanted it to be romantic or platonic.

Let's get to it!!

---

Pomefiore:

Vil Schoenheit:

👑 Vil's opinion of MC is very much the same as the usual OG MC.

👑 He's not necessarily impressed, nor is he very disappointed.

👑 He's neutral in his opinion of MC.

👑 He thinks that their style is a lot simplistic and minimalistic, which he finds does suit them and their personality well.

👑 Though he could definitely see MC rocking some of the more detailed and extravagant outfits.

👑 Nevertheless, Vil does respect MC's pragmatism and responsibility.

👑 Especially being surrounded by such bad-mannered potatoes (*ahem ahem* Grim especially *ahem ahem*)

👑 Everything in Chapter 5 goes by normally; just mostly a lot smoother during practices because MC is one responsible manager.

👑 Also, MC was interested in the prize for winning the VDC as it would definitely help their financial situation (and Ramshackle)

👑 During the duration of MC's manager duties, Vil has noticed that MC can be quite short-tempered and semi-violent at times.

👑 Though other than that, Vil does see how MC gives advice to everyone, even Vil himself, on how to somehow improve.

👑 MC treats everyone quite equally and neutrally, and doesn't give any form of bias or favoritism.

👑 This is one of the things that Vil likes a lot.

👑 As someone who has faced problems stemming from biases and unfairness, Vil feels a breath of fresh air with MC.

👑 While the NRC Tribe was staying in Ramshackle, MC took a while to getting used to having "outsiders" in their "house" and may or may not have accidentally shot some of them

👑 It wasn't too bad, nor were the shots in vital places; but the victim/s have landed in the infirmary a couple times. Vil thinks that it most certainly hinders the group's progress, but sort of understands MC's reasons and prepares healing potions for any victim/s (Vil, himself has been a victim of those shots one time; and Rook has somehow dodged all shots thrown at him)

👑 Nevertheless, everything else goes as usual.

👑 Vil's overblot goes like all other overblots MC has fought; MC has had experiences with poison before, and is a country themselves, so poison doesn't have as lethal an effect on them as it would a normal person.

👑 MC can't exactly relate with Vil and his past; but tries to comfort Vil, though they do scold him for making a huge fuss and potentially killing not only himself, but others as well.

👑 Afterwards, the relationship between Vil and MC are quite normal; there's the occasional chat here and there, and the occasional invite for tea as well.

👑 Vil sees MC and Rook using a gun and bow and arrow (respectively) together and practicing their aim together.

---

Ignihyde:

Idia Shroud:

(Note: This might be pretty short compared to the others as I don't know much about this character and/or the Chapter/Book this character is involved in. I might edit this soon when I do know more about the character and/or chapter they are in, though.)

💀 One moment seeing MC with a gun chasing Grim during the entrance ceremony is enough to make Idia know not to mess with the magicless student.

💀 One look at them and Idia can already see them as the tough and easily-angered, though responsible and smart character.

💀 Idia knows that people use these tropes and make said character have a soft spot or two but Idia doesn't wanna take any chances.

💀 However, with MC's skills in using a gun, Idia wonders if they've tried those gun games like COD or smthg

💀 Cuz he knows that they'd definitely ace those types of games.

💀 Nevertheless, Idia does not wanna interact with MC live and irl.

💀 I am so sorry for the constant disappointment in my Idia writings; I really can't characterize him well.

💀 Once I learn more about him, and about Chapter 6, I'll probably edit this

---

Diasomnia:

Malleus Draconia:

(Note: This might be pretty short compared to the others as I don't know much about this character and/or the Chapter/Book this character is involved in. I might edit this soon when I do know more about the character and/or chapter they are in, though.)

🐉 Malleus has no idea what happened in the Opening Ceremony (as he wasn't invited again 😔)

🐉 But Malleus has heard some students gossiping about a supposed magicless human using guns.

🐉 Anyway, MC probably attempted an attack on Malleus when they saw him on their property.

🐉 Malleus, obviously, dodges all of them, and, trying to be reasonable, asks why he was getting attacked

🐉 Malleus assumes that it's because MC is an assassin sent to kill him; but Malleus senses no magic from MC, nor any extremely malicious intent.

🐉 When Malleus realizes why MC had attacked him, Malleus apologizes and promises not to tresspass again.

🐉 He also explains that he often has his nightly walks by Ramshackle and did not know that there was someone who already lived there, and MC does feel sort of embarrassed and also apologizes, saying that they suppose he can visit sometimes.

🐉 Malleus leaves and is now very much interested in this new child of man.

🐉 Also, let's all hope that Sebek doesn't hear about the attack on Malleus, lest MC be completely annoyed with Sebek shouting in their ear for "disprespecting the future king of the Valley of Thorns" or "dare attacking Waka-sama"

🐉 After a while, MC warms up to Malleus and sometimes accompanies him on his nightly walks by Ramshackle.

🐉 Again, I might edit this when I know more about Malleus and when Chapter 7 is revealed.

---

How TWST Characters Would React When They Find Out That Switzerland!MC is a Country Personification

Please see this link for the characters' reactions.

[yanderepuck]

Catboy Cafe AU- Leonardo

Make sure to read the following chapters before reading this:

Chapter 1

"Leonardo!"

"Si, cara mia?"

You huffed in his face.

Leonardo was sitting in the back office at your desk, waiting for you. When you got close enough he pulled you into his lap and rubbed his face against yours as he purred.

Leonardo doesn't work on the floor or in the kitchen like the others do. He helps you with running the business int he back. Helping with numbers, payroll, inventory, everything that it takes to run a business.

You would be lying if you said that you had everything under control all by yourself. You're certain that you wouldn't have made it into your 4th month without his help.

You got so many employees so quickly, and the cafe got popular very quickly that you had to order much more inventory. You wouldn't have thought about asking for more of a discount on items if it wasn't for Leonardo. You assumed the price is a set price, why would it be negotiable?

It is easy to say Leonardo has the position of a manager, but there are times during a lunch rush that he'll join in and help with tables or go in the back and clean dishes. But during the day he runs the register for people who come in and want items to go.

Right now it's the first few days into the new months and you still need help with getting numbers together, getting receipts in order, get inventory orders in.

"I need to get you your own chair back here," you sigh and get comfortable on his lap since you're obviously not going to be able to get up with his arms wrapped around you.

"Oh? What's wrong with this one?" he sets his chin on the top of your head to look at the computer monitor in front of you two.

"This is suppose to be my chair, fantoccio," you've most certainly picked up on some of the words he uses.

"And this whole time I thought your seat was in my lap."

"Leonardo!" you gasped as he laughed.

You weren't mad at him. You could never be mad at him. His flirt was part of his charm, and the fact that he only ever flirted with you. Now that you think of it, you don't think you've ever heard him flirt with a customer like the others do.

"What are you thinking about, bambina?"

You hadn't even noticed you were lost in your thoughts until you snapped out of them and realized Leonardo had half of the spreadsheet typed out.

"Sorry. I was just thinking."

"Thinking about me? Thinking about how handsome I am?" he purred at the end of that and you could hear his tail swish.

"Oh you wish," you laughed as you pushed his hands off the keyboard and started typing in replace of him.

You can't possibly have feelings for him. He works for you after all. That would be weird, plus he's part cat. He rubs against you and purrs just like any other cat you've met. It's just what they do.

Leonardo sat back in the chair and watched you work listening for occasional questions that you always ask.

There is nothing wrong with a catboy wanting to form a special bond with a certain human, its like wanting to be their house cat. They get jealous and a little clingy when another cat is around their human. He sees nothing wrong with wanting head pats from a special someone.

You would have thought he fell asleep if it wasn't for his fingers curling around the ends of your hair.

"Hey Leonardo?" you think you heard a soft mew come from him, as if he was about to fall asleep. "How do I ..." as you start asking your question he sits up, setting his chin on you again and taking over the mouse to look at what you're doing.

"You're doing it right, cara mia. But try doing this instead."

He was showing you a shortcut on the spreadsheet so it wouldn't take so long. The beginning of the month is always busy with this work, so anyway to shorten the work time helps.

"I should just make it your job to do all of this," you've caught onto a lot of it, and he's taught you a lot, but some days it feels like you know nothing at all and ask him questions nonstop.

"You're doing great," he planted a kiss on the top of your head, causing you to tense up a bit. You know part of their jobs is to flirt. But with your boss? The owner? But you're not going to complain. He's like your own catboy. Some days he even follows you around as if he's a kitten and he doesn't know what to do.

He's adorable, you'll admit that.

[beewolfwrites]

Hello! I'm not sure if you're taking requests rn BUT if you can could you do reader x chishiya where reader bought one those japanese diy food kit boxes where you're suppose to create a mini version of a food but this time its kind of candy? If you don't know what they are you can search it up. So, what if reader has to beg chishiya to help them with the kit but he just ends up reading the instructions to the reader and watches reader struggle. That's all, take youre time. I love your writing btw!<3

Hi! Sorry this took a short while! This was an adorable idea. I had no idea about those Japanese mini food kits, but after Googling them, they look so fun!

I haven't put out a post or anything, but yes, I'm happy to take requests! There are a couple lined up at the moment, so it's a fun change from writing chapters.

Thank you for such a fun prompt :D

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

The time had already struck 10am, but there was still no sign of the delivery man. Glancing at the clock on the mantlepiece, you paced back and forth playing with the keys in your hand. Chishiya paid no mind. He was sitting on the couch, scrutinising a book on spinal surgery techniques like he often was. Well, he wouldn’t be for long. Not if you could help it. With next-day delivery, your dream of an ideal weekend with him was finally coming into fruition.

If only the delivery man would arrive.

10:02am.

You peeked through the curtains. Nothing. Not even a van.

10:04am.

A car rolled on by, and you looked out of the window to no avail. The keys tinkled between your palms as you bounced them around.

10.06am.

Chishiya finally set down his book. ‘Whatever it is you’re doing, stop doing it.’

‘I’m waiting for a parcel. I paid extra for it to be delivered by ten.’

‘It’s only six minutes late. What have you been wasting money on this time?’

‘You’ll find out when it gets here.’ You beamed at him. It was a smile that promised cuteness, cuddles and bonding time. All the things he hated with a passion.

Chishiya’s eyes narrowed. He tossed the hardback onto the coffee table just as a van door slammed outside. You bolted to the window and pulled back the curtain. The delivery man was walking up the drive, carrying a small brown package.

‘It’s here!’

Leaping past Chishiya, you ran to the door and fumbled around finding the right key to unlock it. Once you managed to get it open, you grinned at the delivery man and held your parcel close like a prize. It was finally here. Your dream weekend with Chishiya.

When you re-entered the living room, he was leaning back, eyes closed in exasperation. Now that simply wouldn’t do. You waited silently by the arm of the couch to show him the online treasure you’d found. Only, he didn’t move.

‘Whatever it is,’ he said, ‘I don’t want any part in it.’

‘Come on,’ you insisted, now pulling at his sleeve.

‘Let me rest.’

‘Please! I want to make this with you.’

One eye slid open. ‘Make?’

The moment the word left his lips, you knew you’d caught his interest. ‘It’s something we can do together.’

‘Fine,’ he said, sighing as he got up. No matter how reluctant he seemed, he wouldn’t go this far if he wasn’t at least a little curious.

He followed you into the kitchen where you grabbed a knife and started hacking into the box. Chishiya folded his arms, resting against the countertop. If he wasn’t unimpressed before, he certainly was when you pulled out a Popin’ Cookin’ Candy Lunch Box kit.

‘That’s what you bought?’ He eyed the kit like it belonged in the gutter. ‘I hope you used your own money.’

‘It’ll be fun,’ you promised. ‘I’ll let you make whichever ones you want.’

He prodded the box with one finger, before turning his nose up at the bubble font. ‘I’ll leave this to you.’

He started to head back into the living room, but you clutched his elbow to keep him from leaving. ’Please Chishiya! You don’t have to do anything. I’ll do the actual food making, even if you just read the instructions.’

He pursed his lips as he weighed up his options. ‘Just the instructions,’ he agreed. ‘You’re lucky I have nothing better to do.’

Yes! The perfect couples activity was in sight. Excited, you rubbed your hands together and motioned him over to the box on the counter. It was like trying to tempt an unenthusiastic cat. He merely looked at you as though you were wasting his precious time.

But that wasn’t going to stop you from having fun.

Opening up the Lunch Box kit, you tore into the wrapper packaging inside, finding a bundle of sachets and a blue spoon, all sitting in a grooved plastic tray shaped with different moulds. It was… well, not quite what you were expecting. You’d only really heard of these kits online, but you’d never actually watched other people make them. Chishiya picked up the packaging and scanned the small print on the sides.

‘You need scissors,’ he said.

‘Hold on a second.’ You were too busy scrutinising the sachets. ‘What am I supposed to do with these?’

The sachets were snatched out of your hand as Chishiya dumped them back on the counter. ‘Forget those for now. You’re supposed to cut into the tray.’

He reached into the cutlery draw and pulled out a pair of kitchen scissors. However, what Chishiya didn’t tell you was that you were only supposed to cut off the corner of the tray to measure water in. Now, surrounded by several pieces of plastic, you were beginning to wonder if this was a sabotage tactic.

He regarded the mess you’d made with a wry smile. ‘Well, I don’t believe I told you to cut up the entire tray.’

‘You didn’t tell me anything at all,’ you snapped.

‘Hmm. I’m not sure I like that attitude.’

You sighed, prodding the remains before you. ‘Sorry. I just… at least the moulds are still usable, kind of.’

As it stood, they were technically usable, but that didn’t mean they were easy to use. Following Chishiya’s vague instructions, you managed to mix tiny amounts of water with the powders to form candy shaped like a panda, a rice-ball, broccoli, fried chicken and even an octopus.

But with the tray reduced to pieces, the structure holding up the moulds had gone, meaning none of the powder mixtures settled evenly. So far, the octopus candy had dribbled over the sides, giving it a little too many tentacles. Half of the panda’s face was smudged. And the broccoli was missing half of its head.

You stared at the resulting lunch box, painfully aware of Chishiya smiling sardonically over your shoulder at the abomination you’d created.

‘Why does it look so sad?’

‘Because it is,’ was the reply. He placed a hand on top of your head. ‘You tried.’

If it weren’t for the pitiful state of the lunch box, you would’ve been more angry at him for his unhelpfulness. But there wasn’t a shred of anger in you. More than anything, you felt underwhelmed. The vision of the two of you trying something a little different together had been dashed.

‘Hm?’ The hand on your head jiggled as he tried to snap you out of your trance. ‘This was what you wanted, wasn’t it?’

Your shoulders slumped as the mini rice-ball toppled over. It just looked so… so disappointing. ‘I only wanted us to do something fun.’

He hummed in consideration. You could feel him mulling over his words, and right when you half-expected him to pull yet another joke, he looked at his watch.

‘It’s already lunchtime,’ he remarked. ‘There’s a new cafe not too far from here. It may be busy but they might have a table.’

Wait - did that mean?

As he began to walk out of the kitchen, you threw your arms around his waist, squeezing him from behind. ‘Chishiya! You’d really take us to lunch?’

‘Us?’

And just like that, the moment was gone.

‘I’m going out to lunch.’ He gestured to the mess you’d made. ‘I believe yours is over there.’

With a signature smirk, he detached himself from your arms and left to get his coat. You stood there, blinking in horror at the prospect of eating that sad little lunch box, before running after him to grab your shoes.

‘Chishiya! Don’t you dare!’

[bluemoondust]

I do have a question, if you'd like to answer it? Can you do some general headcanons for a yandere!Lucian? I don't see it often, despite there being potential there. Either way, have a nice day!

✧General Yandere Headcanons — Elite Four Lucian✧

Hello there! I honestly am very willing to write for him and any other characters that most don't really write about (which I find that a shame because as you said, there's potential there and reading his info, I wonder why people don't talk more about him). After writing concepts about him and other psychic specialists, I feel like I'll just end up writing a whole post about their yandere types like with the pokemon professors! Which sounds fun. I hope you enjoy this and also have a wonderful day!

Warning(s): Obsessive Behavior and Thinking, Slight Mentions of Stalking, Slight Manipulation and Gaslighting

To start things off, Lucian is an extremely patient man. So much so that it is deemed scary at how calm and put together he is no matter how stressful the situation is. Though I will mention that he does have his moments, but those are rare because he has books to keep himself in check. He isn't immune to feelings of anxiousness, but he knows to evade them.

Putting that to the side, I can definitely see him as a very lucid yandere. To add on, he probably saw the signs coming and just waited to see what this would result in. You certainly were a unique person in his eyes, but did that go further? There's more to it, he knows, and he wants to witness for himself. Lucian deems himself to be capable of keeping his mentality, actions, and emotions in check so he doesn't worry about being a threat in the slightest. That's why he's so aware and okay with his yandere traits.

He also gives off obsessive type vibes, but not to an extreme extent where it can drive you away or make one uncomfortable (unless his type of obsessing does do so). Lucian finds himself staring at you often, watching every action you take with high interest. It does distract him from reading, which is a little unfortunate he'll admit, but at least it isn't a strenuous distraction. Can confidently say it's a welcomed distraction.

Certainly will try to get closer to you rather than just get antsy and take you away. Again, he's very patient and doesn't mind pining over you for a while. The amount of time just fuels his love for you even more. Because of this, with how much you've spent time with him, he'll gather any form of info on you. Whether it be the little habits you possess or the places you like to visits. It's all in his extensive mental archive he has on you. He makes sure not to let his knowledge on you slip up, because any mistake can cause a domino affect.

You'll soon become an open book to him, even though future chapters haven't been revealed yet. Even so, he really enjoys the time spent with you, and drinks up anything new he learns along the way. And you're none the wiser to what lies beneath his politeness and charm. It makes him wonder how and when you'll find out. Lucian doesn't want you figuring things out, but it does get the gears in his head running on the possibilities.

Oh, and he definitely does use his senses to keep track of you. It's more of a precaution for himself rather than just trying to see where you usually go. Lucian may have high trust and belief in his skills and wit, but at times there's a nagging speck of doubt he gets. This is why he tends to want to have absolute attention on reading; it allows him to pin his focus on one thing so wandering thoughts don't mess with critical thinking. Though, you also manage to do the same, and he wonders if it can either go well or badly in that case.

If you should show the slightest signs of suspicion upon his intentions, Lucian is not against a bit of manipulation and giving you self doubt. He won't outright guilt trip you, but he will make sure your assumptions are proven wrong; all the while accepting your apologies despite the fact that you were actually right. I mean, with how much praise he's given as a member of the Sinnoh Elite Four, why on earth would you even give this man a shred of doubt? You may feel like you're in control of the situation, but that's what Lucian wants you to believe.