#they’re a virus listen | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

aloneinthehellfire · 25 days ago

Text

Chapter Twenty: Friend Or Foe, Part I

Gates Of Hell

Word Count: 5.2k

Warnings: swearing, mentions of grief and death (steve is having a hard time and it's my fault), themes of threat

[A/N: Did anyone say they've been needing a writer to return with a buttload of angst and scream-worthy cliffhangers? No? Well, I'm back now so I guess you don't have a choice.]

Friend Or Foe, Part I

He can’t stop replaying that moment in his head.

“I’m gonna turn any minute now.” You place your hands on his cheeks, making sure he was listening to your every word. “And I don’t want my last memory to be crossing back into our home knowing I won’t make it five steps before the virus kills me. Okay? So, you’re gonna go through the gate and you’re not ever gonna look back. Please. Don’t come back for me.”

“I can’t-” He cries and you bring his forehead down to touch yours, nodding.

“I know.” You whisper, leaning forward to leave a feather-light kiss on his lips.

His eyes are still closed when you lean back, studying him one last time.

“Which is why I’m sorry.”

Steve’s eyes snap open just in time to watch your hands find his chest and shove him as hard as you can, his body ripping through the gate faster than he can experience.

His back hits solid concrete, making him groan. It takes a second for him to blink away the dots in his vision, slowly sitting up. He can see your figure clearly, your sad eyes, the smile gracing your lips.

And then the gate starts to sew itself shut.

Your words are stuck on a never-ending loop, the bittersweet memory of your voice floating past his ears every morning he awoke since he lost you. It replays because his subconscious wants to torture him, remind him of everything he could have done but never did.

If he had just opened his eyes... If he had opened his eyes, you wouldn’t be trapped in the Upside Down. If he had opened his eyes, Jonathan Byers would still be alive.

The ceiling he stared at never crushed him like he wanted it to every time he blinked into to the realisation he was a failure. He couldn’t do anything right. Everyone around him would be better off if the murky grey ceiling caved in and buried him under its rubble.

And yet even with all his silent prayers, the building stayed steady, and he was forced to push himself out of bed and face the reality. He messed up, twice. And now everyone else had to pay for it.

Just as he pulled a shirt over his head, a drone of voices could be heard from the living room. He cracks open his door, Hopper’s rough words echoing loud.

“They’re forcing us to leave.”

Steve sobered up fast, quickly and quietly descending the staircase and rounding the corner to a view of, well, everyone. Hopper must have called everyone in for a meeting. Everyone but him.

“What’s going on?” Steve asked, ignoring the looks from the Party. They always greeted him with such pity now, sorrow lacing their features like he was a kicked puppy that needed cheering up.

“Just in time.” Hopper greets, running a hand down his face. “The military are expanding the quarantine.”

“When?” Steve crossed his arms, frowning.

“Tomorrow morning.” Hopper sighs and Steve’s heart sinks. “Unfortunately for us, we’re close to the danger zone already. They want us packed up by tonight or…”

“Or?” Nancy prompts. Steve notices the worn expression she tries to mask, another shot at his chest. Losing Jonathan was sucking away her life force. And he did that to her.

“Or they’re removing us with force.” He says grimly, a few scattered mutters filling the silence. “They’ve tried keeping the monsters at bay but it’s a losing battle. I tried arguing, but they’re not looking for opinions. They’re doing a full sweep of the danger zone borders and moving everyone out. Our hands are tied.”

“What if we hide?” Dustin suggests, nodding wildly. His friends nod too, but with less conviction.

“Not that easy.” Hopper tightens his lips. “Our last search attempts for food have been failures. We won’t have enough rations to keep going even if we found a way to avoid the quarantine. The infestation is beyond our control without those gates. We’ll have to… give up.”

His eyes wander down to the map displayed on the table in front of him, staring at the crossed out circles of missed opportunities. The watergates, as the young boy had dubbed. And the pattern you found even when all hope felt lost.

“But we can’t find those gates if we’re not… here.” Dustin deflates as gravity pulls him back down to the suggestion in Hopper’s words. “We won’t find Y/n if we’re not here.”

“We can’t find her anyway.” Robin mutters, folding her arms tighter against her chest. Steve sends a curious look her way, but she doesn’t acknowledge it. He understands why she must be so bitter, losing her best friend like that- her only friend, as she had reminded him before. But he didn’t expect her to be this cold, even if it’s taking longer to find you than anticipated.

“I’m going to give the search one more shot.” Hopper announces, running a hand down his face. He clearly hadn’t slept, tone too low, his body slumping against the table as he fought against exhaustion. “If there are no rations left for us, we’ll have to pack up and leave with the rest of them. I can lead the search if no one wants to-”

“I’ll do it.” Steve steps forward, surprised expressions adorning everyone’s faces. Steve hadn’t left the house since they lost Jonathan, and he had made no suggestion until now that he was ready to do that.

“Kid-” Hopper begins with a sigh, but Steve shakes his head.

“It’s supposed to be my turn anyway.” She shrugs, ignoring his bubbling fits of anxiety growing in his chest. “No point sending too many people out in case it is a lost cause.”

“You can’t go alone.” He responds, brows furrowed. He knew better than to argue with him when they were running out of time. “That’s the rule.”

Steve mentally sighs. Who would want to go with him? The last time he led a mission, he fucked it all up.

“I’ll go.”

He grits his teeth. Great.

Billy emerges from the shadowed corner he had watched from, smirking at Steve as he approaches the table.

“I’ve been out there more than anyone, I know how to get into the stores undetected.” He practically boasts. Steve wanted to groan, a sickly feeling in his stomach when Hopper agrees without reservation. Does he know what Billy did to them last year?

“That’s settled then. You two head off when you’re ready. I think… I think I’m gonna head back up and keep searching.” The last part was mumbled under his breath as Hopper leaves the table and trudges back up the stairs. Steve stares almost mournfully after him. He was in so much pain and, even so, he would never show it.

Like father, like daughter.

“Ready when you are, buttercup.” Billy grins, folding his arms.

Steve bit his tongue, glancing over at a punchable face if he ever saw one. “Sure.”

He starts searching for a bag when a hand is thrust into his view, the very object hanging from their fingers.

“Take mine.” Nancy offers, and he takes it with a timid smile.

Since the mission, Nancy has barely uttered 5 words to him. Well, 7 now, which Steve thinks he should be grateful for. After all, if it had been Nancy searching for Jonathan, if it had been you caught in the crossfires of shapeshifters because Nancy wasn’t focused, would he have ever talked to her again?

“Thanks.” He says, and she walks away without so much as a second glance, heading for the staircase. She’s been more adamant on spending time with Will than he has been lately.

“Good luck.” Dustin calls when he reaches the door, Billy behind him.

“Don’t need it.” Billy responds, and Dustin purses his lips.

“Wasn’t talking to you.” He mutters and Billy frowns.

“What did you say?” He growls.

“I said, break a leg!” Dustin throws two thumbs up, grinning.

“And an arm.” Max whispers, and Lucas stifles his giggles.

“Whatever.” Billy swings open the door and steps out without so much as a goodbye. Although, Steve wondered who he’d be needing to pay his farewells too. The only person who seems to have ever shown interest in his care was, well, you.

“I’ll see you later.” Steve smiles at Dustin, the boy throwing out a salute that made him smile.

Even if Steve was stuck with his worst enemy, at least he felt like he was finally contributing something. Something Dustin could be proud of.

Maybe even something that could help find you.

This was a terrible idea.

They were an hour into their search and had been attacked twice. Once by a stray demodog, another by an infected – or rather, a demoperson as Dustin reminded them at every opportunity. Steve thought calling them infected felt more humane, even if a little on-the-nose. After all, they weren’t born like that.

On both attacks, it was made painstakingly clear that Billy didn’t care if Steve lived or died.

“What the hell, man?” Steve pants, planting his boot on the demodog’s back as he pulled his bat free from its flesh.

Billy was leant against a tree, arms folded as he watched with an amused grin. He had stayed that way even when Steve was struggling against the surprise attack. The demodogs were becoming more frequent, which could only mean a pack was nearby.

“You couldn’t have helped?!” Steve stresses, glaring at him.

Billy only shrugs, looping his shotgun back onto his shoulder. “We only shoot for emergencies, right? Don’t wanna alert the whole freak town that we’re here.”

“Right.” Steve grits his teeth, adjusting his backpack. “You always have an excuse, huh?”

“It’s called having a brain, pretty boy.” Billy smirks, nodding to his left. “This way should be clear. It’ll lead us straight past the Radio Shack and to the General Store. We didn’t make it this far last time so maybe we’ll get lucky.”

He doesn’t wait for Steve’s approval, gripping the strap of the shotgun and heading back down the road. Steve considered letting him go by himself, see how amusing he finds it when no one is helping him. But then he remembered he wasn’t an asshole, so he takes a breath and follows him.

When Steve saw the Radio Shack building, his whole body felt like it was in fight or flight. It looked so similar.

It was like he was still in the Upside Down, the vines coiling around the structure like a bad memory. It was tainted, his memory. Because as he looked at something that should feel terrifying, something that should make his heart beat out of his chest and wash a wave of dread over his head, he was utterly fixated by the idea that you could be in there, on the other side, waiting for him to find you.

“Harrington.” Billy snaps him out of his trance. Steve shakes his head. He felt like he was going crazy.

But what if he wasn’t? What if he was right? If he squinted his eyes, he could just force the image of someone walking around in there, a shadow that looked like yours. Maybe...

“She won’t be there.”

Steve pauses. He looks beside him but Billy isn’t standing there. He was stood just outside of the building, looking in.

“What?” Steve frowns. He doesn’t think he’s seen him look so… forlorn.

“Y/n.” He says softly, meeting Steve’s eyes and walking away from the store. “She would have answered the radio calls by now.”

“That doesn’t mean she’s dead.” Steve replies, shoulders tensing.

“Didn’t say that.” He shrugs, tilting his head. “But none of us really know. Apart from you.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You’re the last one to see her before you’re conveniently safe on the other side.” He clicks his tongue. “I overheard Hopper talking to the Byers mom when you got back. He said you were muttering something the entire way home. Something about monsters.”

“Probably.” Steve shrugs, swallowing his nerves. “It wasn’t easy getting to the motel. We almost didn’t make it.”

“Almost.” Billy scoffs, chuckling darkly. “Tell me, Harrington… Why didn’t Y/n cross the gate with you?”

Steve shakes his head. “I-”

“You just said you almost didn’t make it. So did she almost not make it?”

“We got separated.” He says, gripping his bat tightly. “I watched the gate close before she made it through. She’s alive.”

Billy narrows his eyes, assessing the way Steve is trying not to react to his empty suggestions. He isn’t giving up on his story, and even Billy can tell Steve truly believes you’re still alive.

“Look, if you’re done being an asshole, how about we find some food so our friends don’t starve to death.”

“Your friends.” Billy corrects. “And don’t think everyone is buying your little story. I know you’re hiding something from us.”

“Just forget it, man.” Steve was turning around now, clenching his jaw.

“Oh come on, you really expect me to believe you passed through the gate without making sure she was there first? You always had that fake chivalry act going for you, don’t tell me you gave it up just to save your own ass.” Billy sneers, walking closer to him. “No wonder everyone’s been avoiding you lately, you couldn’t even bring back the one person they give a shit about-”

“Shut up!” Steve yells at him, a white-knuckled grip on his bloodied bat, “I don’t need you reminding me of how I messed up, okay?! I relive that moment every fucking day of my life and it hurts every single time!”

Billy seems surprised for once, eyes drifting to the left. He follows his gaze, startled by his own hand holding his weapon as if ready for a strike. He unclenches his jaw, letting his arm rest back down by his side and backing away, choosing not to comment on his sudden display of intended violence.

“Does the chief know you’re in love with his daughter?”

He pauses for a moment, wondering if he should answer. He bites his tongue. It was none of his fucking business.

When they finally arrive at their destination, Steve had never seen the General Store so empty in his life.

It was usually filled with everything you could possibly want. Well, as much as a small town in Indiana could use, anyway. From food, to tools, to craft supplies, the place was always packed to the brim and seemingly never ran out of stock. But this time, it was cleaned out.

A few stray boxes of cardboard littered the floor, the shelves bare of any supplies they desperately needed. They’re usual strike of bad luck was a lightning bolt to their last chance of saving Hawkins.

“I’m gonna check the back.” Billy announces, charging to the back door. Steve didn’t bother going with him; he already knew he wouldn’t find anything.

He remembers the Upside Down in this moment. The concerning lack of any hunger or thirst never crossing your minds as you wandered from place to place, chasing a ghost that never existed. When he had left, it had all come crashing down on him like a wave of sickness, restricting him to his bed until he didn’t feel weak anymore. Physically, at least.

He wondered how you were right now. Were you scared? Were you safe? Had the virus continued spreading? He hated he couldn’t see or hear you, that you weren’t here to satisfy his anxiety. He even hated that he needed you so much, the girl he couldn’t stand a year ago and now the girl he couldn’t stand to lose.

Goosebumps start to line his skin, prickling at his arms. It was probably a breeze of cold air, but Steve had remembered Joyce’s tales of feeling her son’s presence when he was on the other side. He kept imagining it was you beside him, letting him know you were okay.

Steve looks out of the window, heart leaping into his throat as he catches his reflection. It wasn’t his. A pale face, hollow and scorched at the sides, glared back at him, a tilted head of curiousness. When Steve blinks, he sees himself again, startled brown eyes and a messy mane of hair, nothing like the man he saw before.

“Nothin’ out back.” Billy’s voice drones back into the room, a hand running through his mane of hair. “You find anything?”

“Uh…” Steve takes another glance at the window, wondering if he could catch sight of the ghost haunting him. But with his own face staring back, he had to assume his sleepless nights had caught up with him. “No. Nothing.”

“Fuck.” Billy kicks an empty packet with his boot. “I knew this would’ve been the first place to be emptied.”

Steve takes another look around. He takes note of the shelves, moving closer. Dust was settled on the surfaces, drawing lines around bare shapes of cleaner wood and metal. He runs his finger across the lighter spaces, nothing clinging to his skin.

“Only recently…” He mutters, but Billy picks up on it in the stark silence.

“You saying someone got here before us? Like right before us?”

“Look around. The place is spotless. The shelves might be dusty but there’s a clean space where stuff has been taken. It can’t have been more than a few days since someone else was here.”

“Huh.” Billy raises an eyebrow. “I guess we’re not the only ones camping out in the apocalypse.”

A shatter of glass echoed from outside the building, startling them into their fighting stances. Steve’s bat was clenched in his fists as soon as the peaceful silence was broken, and the shotgun had slid into Billy’s arms once the glass hit the floor. They both stared out of the murky windows, an intense concentration on their faces.

“We hit nightfall.” Steve grits his teeth, risking a look to Billy. The boy’s expression was that of the same, eyebrows furrowed. They shouldn’t have been here this long.

“Well, shit.” Billy starts backing up to the doors, eyes glued to the darkening sky. “I guess we better find camp for the night. Preferably somewhere I’m not gonna get eaten.”

“The library.” Steve sniffs, adjusting his posture to face his companion. “It’s the only building left with a solid structure. I say we barricade ourselves in for the night and move out as soon as we can.”

“Nice to see you can use your brain, Harrington.” Billy says, gently opening the door with his shoulder and peering out. “We’re clear.”

As they leave the store, Steve feels like someone is watching them, his eyes constantly glancing back to the Radio Shack until it was far out of sight, an unsettling feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something didn’t feel right but, then again, it hadn’t felt right for a long time.

Before they had even reached the library on steady footing, a clash of lightning burns the night sky into a crimson red, thunder rolling through the dark clouds. Their quiet footsteps splashed into puddles of rain, wet soaking their clothes as a storm started to roll in. The change in weather was a curse and a blessing; it restricted their safety of escape, but heightened their chances of evading monsters. After all, how could they stalk their prey when every sense was overwhelmed by the fury of mother nature?

For once, Steve felt like he made the right call. The library was still standing tall, vines slithered up the sides but weren’t quite strong enough to break the stone. The inside was empty, a few bookcases fallen and pages scattered, no sign of life in sight.

“I’ll take first watch.” Steve says, propping himself up against the desk, bat laid across his lap.

Billy didn’t object, setting down his gear and adjusting the dusty chair pillows they had pulled from the study hall into a makeshift bed behind the counter. He didn’t utter a word when he laid down, and Steve’s head fell back against the wood. As it did, he noticed something etched into the side of the wood from the corner of his eye, twisting his body to glance at it. ‘Save us’, it said. He gulped. Considering how empty the place was, it seems like it was too late for whoever wrote that message.

His eyes return to staring down the double doors like the cabinets they had dragged over wouldn’t hold. They didn’t last time he was in this position. And this time he wasn’t sure there was a single closet he could hide himself in. He just had to make sure he kept his eyes open. If he kept his eyes open, nothing bad could happen.

He sat there staring at the doors for hours, fingers mindlessly tapping against the handle of his bat until Billy’s rough voice called out behind him, alerting him that his shift was over. Steve’s eyes were heavy before he had even swapped places with him, head resting against the firm fabric on the floor. He wasn’t sure he would sleep, but his body overpowered his mind, pulling his subconscious elsewhere...

“Hey, we can get out through the window. Wasn’t rocket science, but I’m still a genius.”

He turns back to look at you over his shoulder, smiling. You’re currently near the far corner, your back facing him. You don’t seem to have heard him, breathing in odd intervals as you stare down at your hands.

“Y/n.” He tries again, louder. Your head twitches. Steve releases the latch on the window, fear flooding his entire body. He slowly steps away from the window, his eyes permanently glued to the back of your head, feeling like he couldn’t breathe.

Trying again, his voice cracks under the pressure of speaking your name like it would warp the vicious reality he was living in.

“Y/n?”

You snap your head to him, and the colour drains from his face.

“No…”

He lost you.

The world bled to grey as tears start trailing from his eyes, staring into yours. Except, they weren’t yours. They were darker, soulless. Black blood was dripping from your chin, staining your lips.

“Don’t do this.” He begs, unable to find the force to speak louder than a whisper. “Y/n, please. It’s not- I can’t hurt you. You know I can’t hurt you. Y/n...”

You snarled at him this time, your mannerisms unnerving. It wasn’t you anymore...

You suddenly lunge at him and he instinctively dives for his bag, rolling away from your attack in the last second. He unzips it, staring down. He couldn’t do this.

Snarls and hisses spit from your mouth as you scramble up from the floor, blinking rapidly as you search in the dark.

Click.

Your whole body snaps to him in one sharp movement. With a shaking hand, he stares directly into your eyes.

“Y/n, please.” He sobs, “Please, you have to be in there.”

Not even the mournful pressure against his chest felt as heavy as the gun in his hand, tears rolling down his face.

“It’s me.” He tries again, hoping his voice could break you free from the virus. “It’s me. Steve. Remember?”

He should have known hope was never his friend. A voice completely alien to you rips out a screech from your throat, and hell comes to bludgeon him with the worst it had to offer.

Steve watches in horror as the skin starts peeling from your face, tearing it into pieces like a flower and its petals. Like a demogorgon.

It was too late. You weren’t coming back to him.

You run at him, sharp teeth bared, mind forever gone.

Steve’s eyes shut and he pulls the trigger, a sob echoing past his lips when the sound of your body hitting the floor fills the basement with regret. He doesn’t dare open his eyes, holding his breath.

His hands are shaking, heartbeat bursting into his eardrums. Steve starts to realise it’s a dream, that he had already lived this moment, that none of it had ever been real. It’s not real…

Even with his nerves on fire, he lowers the gun, hands feeling lighter the longer he remembers this never happened. He can open his eyes. He can force the image of your smiling face into his dream. He can make this nightmare disappear.

He opens his eyes.

And stares into the milky white pupils of a scorched face.

“Find her”

Steve jolts himself awake, blinking against the sudden light blaring through the windows. His heart was thumping out of his chest, the image of the ghost’s eyes burned into his brain. But it wasn’t the dream that startled him out of his sleep.

He hears Billy yelling, his instinct reaching for the bat at his side before it suddenly swoops out of view and a figure blocks his exit. When he turns his head to the looming shadow, his breath hitches, leaning back against the desk.

He wasn’t particularly fond of being greeted with a spear to his face.

It was held by someone in a mask, a brief flashback to his time in the tunnels suddenly thrown into his mind. The air, the kids had expressed. That was before any of them knew it wasn’t toxic. He took a quick glance to his side, noting the person currently pointing a matching spear at Billy, too, his shotgun kicked far out of his reach.

It was two against two. They could take them.

The door from the study opens and two more people walk out, discussing something under their breaths. His heart drops, jaw clenched in silent desperation. Fuck. He should have known nothing was ever easy.

When the others get closer, a new reason for his despair came to light, eyebrows furrowed when one of the voices droned on and on about their ‘key observation’.

He recognised that voice.

“Holy shit.” They laugh, pulling off their mask. Steve feels his stomach twist. “As I live and breathe, is that you, Harrington?”

Steve blinks. “Tommy?”

Lo and behold, Tommy Hagan stood in front of Steve with that bastard smile on his face and a dim light in his eyes. His hair had grown out to now brush against his shoulders, a faint smudge of dirt outlining where his goggles had been resting against his face. His clothes weren’t unusual to his high school attire, but it was covered in grime and faint smudges of blood. It was very clear that he had, much to Steve’s silent disappointment, survived the apocalypse. And he wasn’t alone.

“Wait, did you say Harrington?” The person beside him questions, head recoiling. It was a girl’s voice, sweet enough but hoarse around the edges, as if she hadn’t been drinking enough water. She turns her head to Steve before pausing. “You said he died.”

“He did!” Tommy exclaims, but the girl simply extends her arm in his direction as evidence that he was, in fact, not dead. “Okay, so I thought he died. Not my fault I got bad intel.”

The girl sighs, ready to argue.

“Oh my god, who cares if he’s dead or not, what the hell are we gonna do?” Another female voice, this time it sounded a little more mature. She currently had her spear pointed at Billy’s chest, the boy’s face twisting with some sort of humiliation at the realisation a girl had managed to disarm him. “And for fuck’s sake, put your mask back on, do you want to get ill?!”

“The air’s safe.” Steve finds himself speaking, all heads turning to him. “I mean, it’s not natural at all but it doesn’t make you sick. Getting bit makes you sick, is what I mean. If you’re, uh, talking about getting infected and stuff.”

“Are we really going to stand here all day?” She turns to the last person in the room, ignoring Steve and waiting for an answer.

This person had their spear hovering in front of Steve’s face, the pole shaking slightly as if they had never done this before. He doesn’t suppose they would have; they were just regular teens in a small town before the apocalypse started. Everyone had to adapt.

“I say we just spear them and get the hell out of here.” Tommy suggests and the girl beside him gasps. Steve, however, wasn’t so surprised. “What?”

“We can’t kill them. We’ve never killed anyone.”

“Fine, let’s just knock them out.”

“Shut up, Tommy, you don’t know what you’re talking about.” The other girl chimes in, and Steve could almost laugh. Even in an end of world situation, nobody wanted to be around Tommy H.

“I don’t-” Tommy huffs, shaking his head. “Who the hell saved you from a demon attack, huh?”

“And who got you new clothes when you shit yourself from the demon attack?” She retorts, the last words Steve manages to catch before they’re in a full blown argument.

“Hey!”

The person in front of him finally spoke, lowering their spear and stepping back. A male voice had ordered from behind the mask and, as he turned to his friends, Steve noticed a few stray curls peaking out from the collar of his jacket.

“No one is killing anyone, and we’re definitely not leaving them here.” He says, and the others seem to listen. He was their leader, Steve realised, and his word seemed to be final. The boy turns to him, tilting his head. “Are you serious about the air? It’s not lethal?”

“I wouldn’t be alive if it was.” Steve replies, and the boy sighs. He nods to the others, and they all lower their weapons.

“Sorry about this, we thought you were here to steal our stuff.” The boy apologises.

“I’m guessing you’re the ones that raided the store.” Steve says, accepting the hand extended to him and pulls himself back onto his feet.

“We gotta eat.” Tommy states, turning his head and widening his eyes. “Woah, Billy-boy! I almost didn’t recognise you, what with the whole being beaten by a girl thing.”

“Shut it.” Billy snaps, and the girl in question laughs.

“If it helps, you didn’t make it easy.” She offers before reaching behind her head to untie her mask, letting it fall into her hand and pushing her goggles to her head. “I’m Heather, by the way. I think we’ve met.”

Billy’s eyebrow raises, but he simply nods, walking over to retrieve his shotgun before any more of his dignity left.

“That’s Chrissy.” Heather introduces the other girl, her mask and goggles also secured around her neck now. Steve thinks he saw her in school before, but she was definitely younger, her wide eyes holding an innocence Steve hadn’t had for a long time.

The boy beside him also strips himself of his face coverings, resting the goggles in his messy mane of curled brown hair and smirking at the surprised look on Steve’s face. He throws his spear into his other hand, extending his free glove as an introduction that Steve most certainly didn’t need.

“And I’m Eddie.” He grins, relishing the reveal. “Although, you already knew that. Right, King Steve?”

Chapter Twenty One: Friends Or Foes, Part II coming soon...

[A/N: *once again in an aloneinthehellfire fic, eddie munson enters the arena*]

taglist: @sheisjoeschateau . @kthomps914 . @curled-hair-red-lips . @nix-rose .

@palmtreesx3 . @kryztalglear . @sattlersquarry . @hey-barnes-stole-a-jeep . @sadslasher13 .

@iliveonteaandbooks . @innercreationflower . @newyorkangelbaby . @totally-bogus-timelady . @pansexualhoor .

@kitdjarin1 . @chiliwhore .

#stranger things x reader #stranger things #fanfic #steve harrington #steve harrington x reader #stranger things reader insert #gates of hell #steve x reader #steve harrington imagine #st2 #stranger things fanfiction #steve harrington x you #steve harrington x y/n #apocalypse au #stranger things au #stranger things fanfic

54 notes · View notes

merrybloomwrites · 2 months ago

Text

I'll Be There for You - Platonic Smosh x Reader

Summary: 2020 starts great for reader before covid enters the chat and flips her world upside down. Her friends at Smosh are there to support her through one of the hardest times of her life.

Word Count: 2.5K

CW: covid, quarantine, parent death, panic attack

AN: Was listening to a Smosh Mouth episode and they brought up filming during quarantine and it randomly inspired this story. I lost my own dad during covid and Smosh was absolutely one of my escapes during that time so this story may just be me processing that haha

No romantic relationships for reader in this, just lots of supportive friends.

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

From the moment you hear about this new virus, you’re nervous about it. The news stations are trying to keep everything positive, spin it like this is no big deal. But what you see on social media is telling a different story.

You’re not so much worried for yourself as you are for your family. They’re all the way across the country on the east coast while you’re in Los Angeles. And many of your family members have lung issues. While you don’t know much about this coronavirus, it seems to be most harmful to people’s lungs, leaving you to worry.

It seems crazy to be taking a trip right now, but the threat doesn’t seem to be too bad. Travel is still permitted, and so your group goes ahead with your trip to Australia. You’ve been looking forward to this for months, and try so hard to not allow your anxieties overshadow your excitement.

It’s a solid group on the trip: Shayne, Courtney, Ian, Damien, Sarah, and Matt Raub. All of you are trying to ignore the increasingly worrisome news and keep things light. You attend two different expos, doing live shows as well as meet and greets with fans. Those bookend the trip, with lots of different activities in the middle, including visits to a couple zoos to learn about local wildlife.

You hold koalas and snakes, laugh with your friends, and for a little while, you forget all about the bad things that are happening.

But you can’t hide from it forever. Despite everyone joking about the virus, you can’t help but be afraid. Every day of the trip, more news is revealed, and things look more and more grim.

Towards the end of the trip you do a couple planned meet and greets at Sydney’s Madame Tussauds. You’re on the verge of a panic attack the whole time, feeling like every person you talk to could be carrying this unpredictable virus.

Ian picks up on this and pulls you aside during a break.

“You okay?” he asks, concern etched on his face.

“I can’t shake this feeling, like we’re all going to get infected and then bring it back home, and every time a new person comes in the room it’s like another chance for germs to spread. What happens if we get sick? We don’t know anything about this virus, or what it can do to people, and there’s more and more cases everyday-” your rambling cuts off as you gasp for a breath. The panic attack is officially setting in, the room spinning around you as it gets harder to breathe.

You hear Ian say something, but the ringing in your ears prevents you from understanding him. A moment later Sarah is standing in front of you, catching your eye and encouraging you to breathe with her. After a minute of matching her breaths, you’ve calmed down and gotten through the worst of the panic attack.

Sarah leads you to the couch, sitting next to you, close enough to be a grounding presence but far enough that you don’t feel closed in. Ian walks over, crouching in front of you and handing you a water bottle.

“Sorry about that,” you finally say.

“Don’t you dare apologize,” Sarah says. “Your feelings are completely valid.”

Ian nods before saying, “I know we’re all making jokes about this, but I think everyone’s just covering up how scared they are. I’m definitely scared. You’re right to say that there’s so much we don’t know. I’d say don’t worry about all that, but that’s stupid because you’re gonna worry anyway.”

You laugh at that, feeling much better now knowing that you’re not alone. Ian smiles and places a comforting hand on your knee and you reach out to hold Sarah’s hand as well. The three of you sit for a moment and then Shayne walks in the room saying, “Time to start up again.”

He looks at you guys, sees the redness in your eyes and notices the way the others are comforting you and asks, “Everything okay?”

“Yea, I’m good now,” you answer. “We’ll be right out.”

Shayne nods and walks away. You go to stand but before you can get up Ian says, “You don’t have to go back out there if you’re not comfortable. We can do the rest without you if you need some space.”

“I’ll be fine, but thank you,” you reply. He smiles and gives your leg one last squeeze before standing and giving you a hand up. It’s a nice moment, one where you’re reminded about how wonderful it is to work for Ian. He’s a kind boss, but also like a big brother to you, and you appreciate having him in your life.

The rest of the time in Australia goes smoothly, and then it’s time to fly home. Sarah and Ian stick by you throughout the long day of travel. You don’t ask them to, but you can tell they’re worried that you’ll get anxious in such a crowded space. Somehow that makes it easier, and you’re able to spend the day joking with your friends rather than panicking.

You’re exhausted when you get home, saying a rushed goodbye to your friends and heading home.

And then the isolation begins. The world practically shuts down completely as soon as you get back to the states. You go from constantly being around people, to being completely alone. It’s fine at first, you’re exhausted from traveling and this gives you a good excuse to be lazy for a few days.

You spend a lot of time on the phone with your family, begging them to stay inside the house and stay safe. And they seem to listen, only going out twice for supplies. But apparently that’s all it takes.

Just over a week after the Australia trip your mom gets sick. It’s obvious right away that it’s covid. For one thing, your mom has worked with children for decades. Her immune system is impeccable, you’ve never seen her get a cold or the flu before. For her to be sick is odd, plus she has all the symptoms, so it’s a no brainer.

And then a few days later, your dad is sick as well. You knew it was inevitable, that once the virus was in the house he was going to get it as well, but hearing it for sure makes your blood run cold.

He already has a couple of lung issues, and you can’t help but feel like this isn’t going to go well. You hate that you’re stuck on opposite coasts and can’t do anything to help. You call them as much as possible, wanting to stay positive and hearing their voices always helps.

But then your dad gets worse and ends up in the hospital. You finally tell your Smosh friends what is going on. You’d kept it quiet at first, but they picked up that something is wrong.

You try to continue on like normal, assuring your friends that you’re fine, but they don’t accept that. While they never overstep, you’re often surprised with kind texts or things appearing on your doorstep.

It’s a particularly bad day. Your dad has just been placed on a ventilator. You get the news while in a zoom meeting, and everyone can tell that something has happened.

“You okay, Y/N?” Courtney asks.

You shake your head no and think about what to answer. You could be vague, just say it’s an update about your father and leave it at that. But these are people that care about you, that want to support you.

“My dad just got put on a ventilator,” you reply.

“My god, Y/N, I’m so sorry. Did they say anything else?” Shayne says.

“Apparently the doctors said it’s a preventative measure. Supposed to let his lungs heal. But we’ve all seen the statistics. Most covid patients don’t come off the vent.”

“If you need to go you can,” Ian says. “Don’t feel like you need to stay on this call.”

“No, that’s okay. I’d rather keep working. Either that or sit in silence in my apartment,” you answer with a shrewd laugh.

“Alright, well if you need to leave at any time please feel free. No explanation needed, we’ll understand,” Ian says.

The meeting resumes and you sit quietly while they plan the upcoming Smosh Games schedule. You don’t have any input, and it’s pretty clear you’re not really listening, but you’re comforted by the sound of your friends' voices.

The zoom call finishes, and you’re left alone with your thoughts. You’re not sure how much time passes, but the sun has moved to shine through a new window as husk begins so it must be a while.

You’re startled back to reality by a text on your phone. Your heart races, fearing it’s you mom with even worse news. You breathe a sigh of relief when you see it’s from Spencer, his message saying, “Check out your front door.”

Doing as he’d instructed, you see a bag that had been delivered. It’s takeout from chilis, enough food for multiple meals, all your favorites.

This is just what you needed. Your appetite hasn't been great, but smelling the familiar food has your stomach growling. After sending him a thank you message you dig in.

Now full of comfort food, you manage to do your normal nightly routine of cleaning up the apartment and taking a shower. You go to bed feeling scared, but supported.

Three days later, you get the news you’d been dreading. Your moms calls in the morning, saying the doctors think he won’t make it through the day. It’s a Sunday, and you have nothing to distract you. People text, but you leave them unanswered.

It’s a beautiful day in Los Angeles, and you do the only thing you’re allowed to do: take a walk.

Losing track of time, you wander through neighborhoods, making sure to keep distance from other people out walking. It pains you to see happy families, people who are making the most out of this pandemic. People whose lives aren’t being drastically changed forever.

You get back home in the early afternoon. Soon after, your mom calls. You almost ignore it, knowing what she’s going to say but wanting to delay the inevitable. But you know you can’t do that.

It’s a short conversation, your mother unable to say too much between the tears.

You hang up feeling numb. It grows dark outside and finally you text Ian, asking for the next day off.

His response is immediate, expressing his condolences and telling you to take at least the week off. You ask him to send a message to the others, not wanting to have to do it yourself.

You wrap yourself into a cocoon of blankets, lay in bed, and cry over the loss.

The next few days you find that you’re exhausted, with random bursts of high energy. You use the energy to respond to your friends' messages, thanking them for reaching out and telling them you’re okay.

You speak on the phone with Damien for a while a couple days after it happens. While all of your friends are supportive, he’s the only one who’s been through this before. He truly understands what it’s like to lose a father. His experience, his words, everything he has to offer is incredibly comforting to you. And when he says he’ll always be there to listen, you know he’s telling the truth and not just saying what he thinks is the “right thing”.

And then that Thursday, just a couple days after your dads death, the vlog of your time in Australia is released.

You get the notification that it’s been posted as you always do, and instead of being excited that a new video is up, it sends you into a breakdown. You’re crying, gasping for breath, and you need someone there with you.

For the first time since all of this began you cannot be alone. People have been offering to stop by and because it’s been over two weeks since any of you have been around others it’s technically safe. But you always refused, assuring them that you’re fine.

Now, however, you need people around you. Through tears you find your phone and immediately call Courtney, asking if she and Shayne could come over. She says yes without hesitation and stays on the call while the two of them make their way to your place.

Needing the comfort of your room you say, “Front door is open. I’ll be in my bedroom when you get here.”

“Just a couple more minutes,” Courtney replies as you climb under the covers.

“Okay,” you murmur to let her know you heard her.

As promised she and Shayne enter a few minutes later. Without hesitation Courtney climbs into bed with you, wrapping you up in your arms. You melt into the embrace, sobs ripping through your body.

When you’ve finally cried yourself out, you pull away and notice Shayne’s no longer in the room. A moment later he walks back in, carrying water, tissues, and your favorite cookies. You smile weakly at him and pat the bed, inviting him to join you and Courtney.

He sits next to you, and you’re effectively sandwiched between the two of them. It’s comforting to be surrounded by two of your best friends. You’d always been close with them, and we’re happy that nothing changed when they started dating.

They’re two people who will always have your back, no matter what. They stay with you until the next morning, Shayne leaving temporarily to pick up anything he and Courtney need for the night.

You hadn’t realized how much you needed to be around people, but it’s clear how much it helps to actually see people and talk to them without a screen.

Finally, you start accepting people’s invitations to hang out. You make good use of your apartment complex’s patio area so that you can hang out while still social distancing. You don’t often talk about your dad or how you’re doing, but rather about other mundane things. It feels good to talk to friends about something even somewhat normal.

The other cast members take turns filling in for videos that you’re supposed to appear in. You’d tried going back to business as usual, but found that you couldn’t be as lighthearted and funny as you usually were. Rather than try to fake it, you’d switched to a more behind the scenes role for the time being.

In May and June, fans start to notice that you aren’t appearing in any videos. Many theories float around, and you decide you’re ready to make the news about your dad public, instead of letting the rumors continue to spread.

You make a post about your father on Instagram, a picture of the two of you with a caption explaining the loss. Support floods in, from friends, family, and fans alike.

Though it’s the hardest thing you’ve ever experienced, it’s so nice to know you have such wonderful people who will always have your back.

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

AN: Thanks so much for reading! I'm working on two stories for Whumptober, One Spencer x reader and the other Damien x reader!

#smosh x reader #smosh fanfiction #spencer agnew x reader #shayne topp x reader #courtney miller x reader #ian hecox x reader #sarah whittle x reader #damien haas x reader

56 notes · View notes

svt-kiki · 3 months ago

Text

( 🖇️ ) RELATIONSHIPS WITH MAKNAE LINE ⌅ .

✦ 🐸 ⸝⸝ ⸺ minghao / the 8

#　kiki　+　minghao　／　kihao　...　65%

#　TAGLINE　...　cold outside but soft inside

man they really chill *chef’s kiss*

they got along really well from the beginning, he just knew she’s the reliable person and she be like I WILL PROTECT THIS LIL BROTHER AT ALL COST-

oh the stage presence, and that gaze... ( like mother like son )

it’s funny how they really like that hufflepuff and slytherin besties on the internet

they share the vibes of aesthetics, she loves hanging with him and enjoys tea or meditation or just watching him doing painting

she will buy anything even something suspicious as long as he recommends, i mean he will never do that but that’s just a dinamic of this duo

just like her, he had no friends nor acquaintances in korea when came to pledis, so she rly took good care of him even they don’t know what the other’s talking

he was sorta ‘newbie’ among the boys, so she explained what it is when others were talking about funny episodes during old trainee days

she listened him a lot esp after debut, such as the gap between public image and himself, because she also had similar struggles too

she made sure he and jun can have enough opportunities to speak in radios or music shows and others, always care abt them

and he considers her a lot too, like “have u eaten enough?” “did u sleep well yesterday?”

they both prefers healthy diets ( and sharing midnights snacks, too )

minghao knows what her soul is like, warm and deep, and he always respects her humanity

he really turnes to little squishy just for her :)

✦ 🐶 ⸝⸝ ⸺ mingyu

#　kiki　+　mingyu　／　kigyu　...　90%

#　TAGLINE　...　the muse and the guard dog

does he soft launching he's the one who took her 'girlfriend material' photos on instagram? well it's a hard launching so-

he always includes heart emoji in the reply of her post and got teased from other members lol

kiki: *unofficial no.1 mingyu supporter*

no one:

mingyu: don’t come close to her or i’ll bite you *glares*

they look good, cook well, clean well-

ykwim, they’re in charge of grocery shopping and cooking in the group, other boys will just following them around and be like “i trust you guys just leave the carrying task to us” and it’s hilarious

but when they showed up on red carpet or at the same event? they’ll be THE hot topic *wink wonk*

she can’t just leave poor mingyu when he got teased from everybody so she’s the one who always pats his back

and he has soft spot to have her pat him on the head 💆🏻

he loves to dry her hair, and blow-dry is her least favorite task so... yeah she presumes his goodwill a little in here ;)

PDA wasn’t her best speciality at first ( it’s not that she was uncomfortable or anything, just her japanese thing tho ) but from one point kiki just gave up and let it be 🧘🏻 and guess what? he was the main reason-

they have certain intimacy that sometimes strangers got wrong idea as they’re in relationship or smth, well it’s not ( or they really had... uhm, intimate relationship before? ) but boy doesn't come to pLAY

like i don't trying to be suspicious but he basically has an unhealthy obsession with her, i mean, he is okay that she's having affair with other members ( kinda poly idea ) but he will NOT stand the idea of her with the men outside of the group, it's complicated yk

3/3 of the ‘knight line’ - just imagine seungcheol, jun and mingyu surrounding her like a freaking castle wall, people will be terrified lmao

✦ 🍕 ⸝⸝ ⸺ seokmin / dk

#　kiki　+　seokmin　／　kiseok　...　65%

#　TAGLINE　...　overflowing happy virus :)

they are the happy virus, a sunshine, the definition of sweetness

the bright and positive energy they deliver when two are together is just-

well it can’t be said that she is able to keep up with his chaotic side but she loves he’s having fun and enjoying 100% at the moment

dokyeom LOVES her dishes, he’ll eat anything as long as she cooked

and learns how to cook from her willingly, although both knew he be like etrnal beginner lol

usually they cuddle together in the green room when they take a nap

he had a small crush on her when they were trainee, it was kind of feeling a boy would have for the prettiest girl in the classroom

eventually it grew to the sister/brotherhood relationship that literally ✨glowing✨

he often jokes about how his sister and parents love kiki more than himself, telling him to be kind and gentle with her or you’ll see the consequences time to time, since she’s the only female member and his family always worry about her

he’s the type that gets rattled and worried around her when she is sick or tired and tries to help her but have no idea what to do ( it’s sweet tho )

she knows he always wants to support her and wishes her best

he somehow always ends up with cups her cheeks at the end of conversation

did she cried when saw his excalibur with jeonghan? yessss

sometimes she surprised that he’s actually a grown mAN bcs she’s so used to take care of him as a little brother

so grateful to have someone like him ( and same thing goes for dk )

✦ 🍊 ⸝⸝ ⸺ seungkwan

#　kiki　+　boo seungkwan　／　kiboo　...　70%

#　TAGLINE　...　handsome and cutie pie

they are like the princess and the knight... but in this case, seungkwan is the princess and kiki is the knight yk

officially her grandparents’ favorite member

kiki: kwanna guess what my family send you some food again ㅋㅋㅋ

seungkwan: oh my god when i can start the goddamn diet *takes a bite*

it’s just helpless 🤷🏻

the jogging friends

like he sometimes gets angry just because he adores his noona too much and can’t handle the emotion, kind of ‘precious aggression’ but never eVER hurt her fr

he’s the best member at taking care of her when she’s in period, especially in the trainee era besides some boys just cluless and dk what to do at first ( now they all progressed thanks to seungkwan )

in pre debut era, there was a time once he just lost his mind and suddenly having no idea how to interact with her ( hint: adolescent ) so had no choice but to avoid her, and it was his biggest regret

other member: *tries to fight him back*

seungkwan: *immediately hides behind her*

kiki, to other member: HOW DARE U TRYING TO HURT MY CHILD

he once said if he were a carat he would be a kiki stan 100%

kiki in every group trip: *being his no.1 cheer leader*

she being like “that’s my girl baby 😌” towards everything he did, can’t stop smiling

not him watching cheering and promoting on sns every acting works she has done 🥲 ( and sending a coffee track ofc )

✦ 🐻‍❄️ ⸝⸝ ⸺ hansol / vernon

#　kiki　+　hansol　／　kisol　...　55%

#　TAGLINE　...　cream in the coffee

like kihoon, they’re just not loud as others — but hey, it’s strong

they are simply close to each other, she’s fond of him and he looks up and follows around her like a second shadow

she trusts his taste of music, kiki always listens to his reccomends and it helps her to expand her music knowledge a lot

he’s the only one who she can actually be proactive for kissing to ─ like, to cheecks i mean

he regurally compliments her, esp when kiki dressed up for award shows like “wow noona is so beautiful, just breathtaking” and she’s just being ... well, japanese

not he unborthered for the jokes by other groups’ members as “i want her to be our group~” or “can we have her as our noona / eonni too 🥺” and he just goes “no, sorry, she’s our noona” with straight gAZE lmao

movie lovers ! they’ve similar taste and often spend a night watching movie together: studio ghibli, wes anderson, mcu and many more

usually she doesn’t have a pick between cat and dog as she love both but can’t help being a cat person while killing time with him

he’s the only one who can watch her kiss scenes in her works without flinch, he just ... chill ( while other boys freaking out ofc )

she loves his dancing style too much, u can always see in the bts that she’s fangirling over his performances

kiki is like an anchor to him, although vernon has his own rhythm for communication and, well, existing, she always make sure he can be himself yet included within the group

✦ 🦖 ⸝⸝ ⸺ chan / dino

#　kiki　+　dino　／　kino　...　65%

#　TAGLINE　...　different shape, same warmth

oh BOY

he's so whipped for his noona

and you can see she really adores this little maknae

is he wrapped around by her little finger? obviously.

he truly respects her as a dancer, performer, idol and a role model

from most parts, she wrap her mind around him, but the same time there is the part of him that she never knew nor understand about it

lee family is like an supporter team of kiki, from dino’s parents to grandma to brother... they are full of kiki stan

she respects that he’s the first child in the real family as some ( or in many ) times he’s the one who’s more mature

she treats him as a grown man as he deserved and dino appreciate that

but kiki loves when he being a little brother, won’t waste a single moment to express her affection

he couldn’t be more happier when they spend the night in practice room, thinking and practicing dance together

jeonghan revealed once she cried after listened to "zero" for first time and... he saw the consequences for sure haha

she always showers him with full of praise words when he did solo stage or project or danceology basically anything on his own

he has secret affection of her humming in the kitchen while making some dishes, it’ll just comfort him at instant especially when they were trainees ( he even recorded on his phone without telling her one time )

on trainee era, when he couldn’t help himself from homesick or just tired about same old days, couldn’t attend school events, she took him to the night drive and had secret snack just by themselves

dino had envied woozi so much when he found out now she’s doing similar things to his hyung as well, he thought it’s only his privilege but accepts at the end

( 📁 ) : NAVI : MASTER LIST

( tag list / open ) : @smh-anon

68 notes · View notes

the-old-man-has-the-phonebox · 10 months ago

Text

“*explains how this has fucked up literally everything for me from a purely-objective standpoint*”

“I’m sorry”

Alexa play the “I don’t forgive you” scene from Bojack Horseman

I have been directly exposed to Covid. I almost definitely will get it due to how close and constant this exposure was.

#you never thought it would happen to you #you were the only person I let me guard down with this shit because we lived together most of the time #and of COURSE you’re the one who almost definitely infects me #the one who refused to mask after 2021.#the one who doesn’t even WEAR A MASK IN THE HOUSE NOW THAT THEY’RE POSITIVE SO NOW I WILL HAVE TO LIVE IN ONE 24/7 #of course it was fucking *you*.#don’t say i didn’t warn you #because I did. time after time after time #and you didn’t listen.#I am a modern day Cassandra #just like your fucking father that died on a ventilator from the exact same virus.#ypu’re both too stubborn for your own goddamn good and it will be your hubris.#it was for him. and it was what killed him.

2 notes · View notes

lovebugism · 2 years ago

Note

Having a unserious argument with band AU!Eddie and there’s a moment where you both stare at each other and then his eyes flick down to ur lips. Which leads to you making out and forgetting about what the argument was about in the first place

bug's blurb sleepover (⁎˃ᴗ˂⁎)!

You knew the argument was stupid, but you also knew you were too mad to care.

Like, otherworldly levels of mad. Levels that feel nearly unprecedented, even though you’re well aware it’s over something so damn mundane.

Night of the Living Dead was playing at a drive-in in the same city the Corroded Coffin tour bus had parked in for the next few days. And Eddie wanted to take you. He said he’s wanted to take you out for weeks now, but your schedules just hadn’t allowed him the time to do so.

His van hasn’t gotten much use in quite some time either. It’s just been dragging behind the tour bus and rusting more every time it rains. You, Gareth, and Jeff all told him that he wouldn’t have much time to drive it anywhere, but Eddie only said that “it broke his heart too bad to leave her behind.”

Now, he’s glad that he didn’t. It’ll be good to take you for a drive in it, to roll the windows down and turn the radio all the way up, to watch you in between watching the road and pretend like you’re teenagers again.

And it was really cute, how excited he’d been to take you to see a film you’d both seen a thousand times over. “Taking you to a drive-in actually sounds super fun, babe, and I don’t even mean that in a pervy way. I just wanna spend time alone with you,” he’d told you before smirking. “Even though I won’t be opposed to a little heavy petting.”

It was real adorable. Until you started to get all philosophical about zombies, that is.

Eddie tried to tell you that zombies were still human after they turned. You scoffed when you disagreed, telling him that if that were the case, you wouldn’t have to use the word turned to describe them — that you wouldn’t even need the word zombies at all.

He refused to listen to you, though, and kept on saying that they were “basically still humans but insane.”

And if you’d told yourself an hour or more ago that the two of you would be in a screaming match over this exact thing, you would’ve laughed. But now that it’s your reality, you’re absolutely fuming about it.

“They aren’t human anymore, Eds!” you argue in the confines of the bunk room, shielded only by the sliding door that does little to stifle your argument. You flail your hands around like crazy, eyes wide and glinting with annoyance. “It’s like a parasitic relationship! The zombie is just inhabiting the body of the dead human. Like a— I don’t know— like a fucking hermit crab or something.”

“They turn to zombies because they’re infected, right? Do you stop being a human because you get a little virus?” he retorts with a teasing lilt that only angers you more. “No! You don’t! It’s the same thing!”

“It’s not the same thing!”

“Well, you obviously don’t know what you’re talking about it!”

“I know what I’m talking about, asshole! I’m just not gonna listen to a guy who failed senior year three times!” you shout back, obviously angry and irrational with it.

You would’ve apologized for trying to hit him where it hurts if you saw that it had upset him in some way. But it doesn’t. Instead, he just keeps on teasing you.

“Ooh, you wanna kiss me so fucking bad,” he sing-songs to you, at you, with furrowed brows and lips set in a slight pout like a child.

That does little to quell your rage. Quite the opposite, really. He keeps dousing the fire in your chest with gasoline. You can feel the flames starting to prickle at your burning skin. But you make the mistake of flitting your gaze down to his mouth, only for half of a moment, but long enough for him to catch it. He grins, feeling like he’s won in some way.

“That’s okay, baby. You didn’t have to get all angry about it. If you wanted to kiss me, you coulda just said—”

“I hate you so fucking much,” you grumble to yourself, crossing your arms as you start to storm out of the room.

Eddie doesn’t let you get very far, though. His long legs rush the short distance over to you. He wraps two lanky arms around your frame and cages your own within his too tight embrace. You feel his chest rumble with the loud laugh that spills from his mouth, the breath of it on your skin when he noses at the junction between neck and shoulder.

“This is really fucking dumb,” he says with a hearty chuckle.

“Yeah, you are dumb, you’re right,” you monotone in return, not conceding to this imagined argument but not trying to squirm in his hold either.

“Hey! I’m trying to extend the olive branch here, alright?”

“Whatever…”

He smacks a loud kiss on your shoulder and loosens his grip on you when he’s sure you’re not still angry enough to storm out. You are, though — still angry — but rather than leave, you turn around to face him. Your scowl is met with a beam from the boy ahead of you.

“We’ll just have to agree to disagree, alright, doll?” Eddie tells you with a shrug, trying his best to stop the argument without either of you having to admit you were wrong.

“I don’t know,” you lilt. “I think this might be a deal breaker for me, Eds.”

“Well, we certainly can’t have that…. What’ll happen to the band?” he teases.

You feign a sad sigh. “Guess you’ll have to find another bassist, Eds.”

“What can I do to make it up to you, doll? The fans’ll be real upset if the world’s best bassist is suddenly MIA.”

You purse your lips to the side and flit your eyes to the ceiling, pretending to think about his offer. Your attempt to ignore all the butterflies fluttering in your stomach is futile when he starts to rub his palms up and down your arm, in a soft and soothing rhythm. His touch quells your anger, puts out your fire without really even trying. No one can strike a flame within you, make it burn all big and bright, then douse it with cool, sparkling water quite like Eddie can.

It feels good not to be angry anymore. You’ll be able to laugh about it soon.

Not now, though.

“Well, you’re going to take me to the drive-in tomorrow night and you’re gonna buy me all the snacks that I want—”

“I can do that,” he nods firmly.

“And halfway through the movie, I want to stop watching it and watch you while you eat me out in the back of your van—”

He sputters out a laugh. “I can definitely do that.”

“And until then, you’re gonna kiss me silly, Eddie Munson.”

The grin he flashes you then is no less teasing than it had been before, but it doesn’t make you nearly as angry. Instead, it makes you smile, too.

“I knew this was just a ploy to get me to makeout with you,” he lilts and presses the first of many kisses to the tip of your nose. “You don’t have to get all angry next time, alright? I’ll kiss you anytime you want.”

“Promise?” you wonder playfully, already knowing the answer. You just want to hear him say it.

“I can show you better than I can tell you,” he quips.

It takes no more than twenty seconds for him to get you into your bunk and squeeze in over top of you. In record time, he’s kissing you absolutely breathless — like he won’t be satisfied until he’s swallowed you whole. You want so desperately for him to.

And if your mouth wasn’t kiss-bitten and half-numb, if your lungs weren’t screaming for air every time he kissed you, and your brain wasn’t aching for him to keep kissing you every time he stopped — you might’ve made some stupid joke. You would’ve teased him, told him how obedient he was to listen to you without question, just to drive him crazy.

But you can’t. Because he’s kissed you so insanely stupid, he’s the only thought in your head.

And if Eddie’s this perfect now — just moments after a stupid argument that had you both seeing red — you can’t imagine what he’ll be like tomorrow. As the rough pad of his tongue ruts against your own, you imagine how he’ll feel in between your legs when he’s got them bent over his shoulders in the back of his van.

#bug's blurb sleepover #eddie munson x reader #stranger things x reader #eddie munson imagine #eddie munson smut #eddie munson fanfic #stranger things imagine #eddie munson #published by bug #rockstar!eddie #eddie spaghetti drabble #st drabbles

638 notes · View notes

shadowandsnowwitch · 20 days ago

Text

Whump prompts for Halloween

❆

It has been quite a while since I’ve posted something, I was busy, but I am back with new ideas. All based on classic Halloween monsters

•

Vampire Whump

Vampire Whumper who forces Whumpee to turn into a vampire so they’ll join their group. The entire group is all composed of others like Whumpee

Can be a continuation of the previous prompt : Whumpee is rescued by Caretaker, but Caretaker doesn’t know Whumpee is a vampire and they hide their identity, until they can’t anymore. Is Caretaker scared ? Do they feel betrayed ? Or do they understand why they kept it a secret

Caretaker and Whumpee have been friends for years. The day Whumpee went missing, Caretaker uses their Vampire abilities to find them

Vampire Hunter Whumper and Vampire Whumpee. Whumper can use them as bait to hunt other vampires, or maybe they take pleasure in hurting Whumpee because they’re not human, they’re a monster (and maybe Whumpee liked to play with their prey before ?)

•

Werewolf Whump

Whumper who uses their Werewolf abilities to intimidate and hurt Whumpee. Look who’s the pet now

The transformation during the full moon is painful, and Whumpee becomes uncontrollable. So Caretaker has to lock them up somewhere and all they hear are screams of pain, Whumpee begging Caretaker to make it stop

Whumpee escapes Whumper and runs away in the forest. It’s snowy and they’re cold, after a while they collapse. But when they wake up, they feel something fluffy, and warm… They want to fall back asleep…

In a small village, the sheeps keep disappearing so they ask the hunter to take care of this problem. The hunter stands guard until they find the culprit and shot them. As they get closer, they realise that it wasn’t a regular wolf, but a Werewolf. Is the hunter a Whumper ? Or a Caretaker ? Either way, the villagers don’t seem very happy about the sheeps…

•

Ghost Whump

Caretaker inherited of an old manor. It looks abandoned but they want to give this place back its pristine look. While visiting the place, they meet a Ghost, Whumpee, who seems to have suffered while they were alive. What happened in this place ?

Another Ghost Whumpee prompt ; Ghost hunters heard there was some paranormal activity going on somewhere. A dangerous Ghost lives here, and they manage to capture them. Whumpee just wanted people to leave them alone, and now they’re trapped in a box

Whumpee’s life at home isn’t too happy, they run away and since they don’t have anywhere else to go, they choose to hide in a « haunted house ». They don’t believe in anything spiritual, though it turns out the house is actually haunted… By a friendly Ghost

Whumpee died at the hands of Whumper, and now, they’re ready for revenge

•

Witch Whump

Whumpee is deathly ill and their family is loosing hope. Caretaker heard about Whumpee while listening to a conversation and decides to help them

A classic, Whumpee is a witch living in the woods, and when the habitants of a neighbouring village learns this, they hunt down Whumpee and captures them. Do they plan to burn Whumpee at the stakes right away ?

Caretaker and Whumpee are fairly new to magic. While trying to brew some potions, Whumpee is accidentally poisoned

Witch Whumper who thinks of themself as better than humans, they take a liking in hurting them to prove how superior they are. They might even keep some as pets if they like them enough

•

Zombie Whump

Years ago, a virus turned most of the world’s population into Zombies. Whumpee managed to survive, but they are completely alone. Everyone they knew died, but they keep on living no matter what. One day, they stumble upon what appears to be a « city »

Whumper has a pit full of Zombies, and when someone pisses them off, they throw them down here. But they sort of like Whumpee, so instead, they’ll tie them up above the pit

Whumpee was bit by a Zombie. Caretaker isn’t ready to let go of Whumpee yet, and they’ll do whatever they can to save Whumpee. Even if it takes time… And Whumpee’s behavior is starting to change already. If Caretaker finds a cure, they’re not sure if Whumpee will go back completely to who they were before

Amputations. Whumpee was bit and they are forced to have an arm, or a leg, cut off. And the only tool they have is an axe

•

Demon Whump

Whumpee is beaten and bloody, but they remember rituals they learned from books to summon Demons. As Whumper leaves them for a while, they trace a sigil with their own blood, summoning a powerful Demon. Is the Demon a Caretaker ? Or another Whumper in disguise, a Carewhumper ?

Whumpee and their friends were doing one of those challenges on the internet to summon an « evil spirit ». Whumpee is a bit nervous but doesn’t want to seem like it so they decide to go first. They’re alone in a room doing the challenge while their friends wait outside. After a few minutes Whumpee gets out of the room and collapses, crying in their friends arms

A Demon was made for a purpose, but Whumpee isn’t interested in fulfilling that purpose. They don’t have much of a choice though… Do they fulfill that purpose or pretend to to get away from eternal pain ?

A mistake can have terrible consequences. Whumpee was sent to hell by accident and went through a lot even though they were innocent. They are assigned to an Angel, Caretaker, who helps them heal from their trauma, although Whumpee seems very angry at the Angels for sending them down here…

#whump #whump community #whump scenario #whump prompt #fantasy whump #magic whump #vampire whump #ghost whump #ghost Whumpee #apocalypse whump #werewolf whump #nonhuman whumpee #monster whump #nonhuman caretaker #nonhuman whumper #sick whump

50 notes · View notes

mychlapci · 3 months ago

Note

Prowl wifefication but it’s /Soundwave/ doing it… it wouldn’t be so much of a slow burn as it would be a long fuse before the transformation. Nobody wants to fuck Prowl, you see, which has lead to a self-perpetuating cycle of truly awful vibes and desperately horny thoughts. Which Soundwave can’t help picking up on, during the somewhat rare occasion they cross paths. Taking Prowl off of the board would be a strategic advantage worth the effort by itself, but there’s no reason Soundwave shouldn’t get something out of it, too. If anyone else was going to stake a claim, they should have done it by now. But he’s going to have to be at least somewhat careful about it.

Perhaps it starts with a subtle virus or two, not designed to do anything but make Prowl a little bit hornier than before. Just a touch more sensitive and suggestible. Nothing too noticeable. Just a few lines of naughty code expertly hidden in a file or two Soundwave can stand to let slip, or delivered to Prowl’s work terminal by an enterprising cassette if there’s time. And every time Prowl plugs in he gets a fresh dose, just enough to leave him horny before bed. Self-servicing every night so Prowl can fall asleep, still sticky. Nothing more until the new routine sets in. Then, a little escalation.

It’s too soon to introduce hypnotic elements—a new datapad would be met with infinite suspicion and Prowl almost never listened to music. So an additional strand of code gets tacked on to the ones to make Prowl horny: just a little incentive to have more submissive fantasies. Any time the Autobot second in command imagines letting someone else take the lead, take care of him, /dominate/ him results in an extra rush of charge and a warm tingling from his pleasure core. There’s nothing to be alarmed about, no need to be ashamed. They’re only dirty little fantasies that leave Prowl panting and desperate to go for a second overload. Normal. Natural.

Once Soundwave has crossed paths with Prowl and confirmed that his coding has taken well, it’s time to give Prowl wet dreams. It’ll be easiest after taking Prowl prisoner, even if the mech is quickly rescued. It’s perfect even: the mech won’t even question his horny dreams, since his self-servicing routine has been interrupted. Still too early to be too direct, but flashes of Prowl on all fours taking spike or riding one like a pro are nondescript enough. Watching the mech grind in his sleep is a treat. On their final night “together” before the mech gets rescued, Soundwave allows a brief snapshot of Prowl’s future to tantalize him. Just another horny dream for Prowl, bouncing ecstatically on a hard spike. Valve hot and slick with arousal as the mech paws his own node. And then, a glimpse of something that Prowl won’t be able to get out of his head: a round, taught, /pregnant/ belly underneath one of his hands. Prowl wakes up in a cold sweat, transfluid cooling on the inside of his panels as he tries to make sense of the dream. His head is still swirling when the Ops team rescues him.

Of course Soundwave has left him clean of viruses this time: he needs his cute little autobot to get cleared for work, so he can get back to working himself up into a horny, submissive mess. While everyone was busy rescuing their tactical officer, Soundwave’s cassettes were busy playing with his datapads. And one in particular has some fun new features to help settle Prowl into the idea of his future role even better. The datapad keeps Prowl hornier than ever before, and the barely perceptible flickering of the screen helps Soundwave encode specific wet dreams and directives while the mech works. And, y’know, also harvests sensitive data for the Decepticons to use. But more importantly it lets Soundwave direct Prowl’s increasingly common wet dreams. Soon it’s all about Prowl’s wet, needy pussy. His spike all but vanishes from the fantasies, replaced by some faceless, nameless stand-ins for Soundwave between Prowl’s legs.

For fun, in the days leading up to Prowl’s real capture, Soundwave will even let fantasies about strong, handsome blue mechs slip through. Wet dreams about being bent in half, thighs by Prowl’s shoulders as he’s thrust into. Arms easily holding him up or restraining him.

And then Prowl is waking up blind and restrained, not knowing that Soundwave has been priming him for this new game: training his perfect little wifey.

oh brother, this is like a prequel to those Prowl Wifefication asks we had going on for a while… Finally, we know who the husband is. It’s Soundwave, and he’s going to make a mamma out of Prowl <3

#valveplug #dubcon #wifefication #pregnancy mention #texty #hypnosis #scheduled

51 notes · View notes

thatmooncake · 1 year ago

Text

The way Sun and Moon have experienced so much hurt and so much horror but in a way they may never be able to fully address because they just may not quite have the full understanding or the drive to unpack all of what’s happened to them in any sort of context beyond just seeing it as another part of their lives as silly jesters performing at the whims of other people as a small fragment of a dying franchise. That denial and where that understanding escapes them makes it even more tricky for them to heal because they can’t even begin to come to terms with the way the virus and their repurposing has affected them both, but the horrors keep on coming and they’re slowly unraveling and they know - they’ve known from the start - that something is wrong, and yet they can’t quite figure out what for the longest time.

When the virus hits, they just carry on as normal because that’s all they’ve ever known. They notice the other one is acting differently and it alarms them but they aren’t listened to. Perhaps they don’t openly voice their concerns, or maybe no one is there to hear them. Perhaps they don’t even stumble upon the answer until a long time has passed, sitting in denial, just blocking out the changes and the concerns, and the other one whose existence has now thrown their lives into turmoil.

Sun carries on like everything’s fine and dandy - that is, until he can’t anymore. What a life. Always on. Always acting. He’s a good actor, sure, but when you’re meant to play one half of a day-night cycle I bet it wears at you when you now have to cover both shifts. The fact that he’s even trying to - he’s desperate not to be pulled back into the abyss so Moon can come out because he knows how broken Moon is right now. And I’m guessing that even if he did have a clue how to fix them (which, maybe he honestly didn’t, or simply wouldn’t come to terms with until he saw the faz-wrench in Cassie’s hand in Ruin), he couldn’t leave the daycare at most hours because he’d be at work, entertaining the kids, or not supposed to be out if the daycare was out of order. And then when the pizzaplex was closed, there were the blackouts all over, keeping him locked in where the generators were, where he’d have a chance to retreat into the light (and we can’t forget how useful Moon was to Afton and co as a retrieval bot, so he’d be out and about of course, they’d make sure of that, but not as himself).

The alternative would have been knowingly risking unleashing Moon upon more potentially innocent victims, and getting both of them in even more trouble when he should have been out. He should have been making sure things stayed working at least a little bit. And we see Sun fighting Moon with everything he has in the Ruin jumpscares just so they won’t do something they’ll regret. How long has he been fighting? How many times might he have tried and failed to stop Moon and woken up with blood on his hands?

How exhausting that must have been. Did he blame Moon at all? Any animosity between them could only have hurt more. And even if he didn’t give in to that frustration, the fact is, he was keeping Moon away that whole time, not letting him out to play. For his own good or not, that can’t have felt nice, and it certainly can’t have been easy.

And then Moon on the other hand expresses little clear awareness that something is wrong in Security Breach itself, at least none that’s addressed to Gregory or any of the others, simply going about his business, but it’s heavily implied he knows - and maybe he always knew - that there is something pulling from beneath the surface from the things he says in Ruin. “It won’t work!” He knows at that point at least that Sun (or perhaps Cassie) has a plan, of sorts. But he denies it. He doesn’t trust in that plan to fix them. He knows Sun is there, fighting to come out the moment the lights come on. He’s determined not to stay locked away anymore.

Imagine that frustration too. He wants Sun gone - he has to - because he’s in pain as long as the lights are on. And we can tell from Sun’s sad little song that he feels every bit of emptiness when he’s not active as well. And yet, being active feels like a desperate struggle on both sides as well. They’re in a constant battle with themselves, and there can be no victor.

Now imagine if Moon’s awareness - or his relative resignation at the state of the virus - had extended way back to the main game, when they first became afflicted by it. Knowing there was nothing he or Sun could do to stop it - because he (because they?) tried, and failed? Or just (optionally, if we’re considering the novels) because he was always the “villainous” appendix FazCorp couldn’t cut out of the otherwise comparatively “functional” working daycare attendant? Because then maybe Moon knew all along that there wasn’t a version of events where he was actually supposed to be here anymore.

(When he was infected by the virus, on the other hand? Moon had a purpose. Not a nice one, exactly, but a purpose nonetheless. Something Sun still had in the daycare that he wasn’t allowed. It’s not surprising that they ended up at odds with each other at all no matter how you look at it.)

#fnaf #fnaf ruin #sundrop #moondrop #fablethoughts #just thoughts #need to stop thinking thoughts at 2am

243 notes · View notes

daryltwdixon · 1 month ago

Text

The Ruins of Us: Chapter 21

summary: You often find yourself within earshot of Lori and Shane’s whispered arguments, and this time, when Shane catches you listening, you stand your ground. But you're quickly distracted by a disturbance coming from the woods that leads to Shane's ever more rising fury. In a flashback, your mind is clouded with thoughts about the past, just as troubling news of a rapidly spreading virus reaches your ears.

no serious warning apply, but more walker deaths in this chapter, gunfire, high emotions

x flash forward x

The rest of the afternoon remains quiet, the kind of silence that should bring some peace, but lately, it feels heavy. After the discovery of the barn full of walkers, there’s a quiet tenseness as people go about the rest of the day. You try to keep busy, your hands moving on autopilot as you fold laundry or clean up near the Greene house after your barn chores. Anything to keep your mind off the tension bubbling under the surface. The camp, the farm—everything feels like it's holding its breath.

From where you are, you can see Shane and Lori near the house again, talking in those low, hushed tones that have become all too familiar. You sigh. Here we go again. It feels like it’s always something with those two. You don’t want to eavesdrop, but their voices carry, and like a bad habit, you can’t help but overhear snippets of their conversations.

"Shane, you can’t just—"

"I’m not sayin’ you have to decide right now, but you have to think about it, Lori," Shane’s voice cuts through the air, sharp but low.

You roll your eyes, shifting your attention back to your task. You’re sick of their drama. It seems like the world could be burning down, but Shane and Lori would still find time to argue about... whatever it is they always argue about. But then a word catches your ear, freezes your movements.

“Baby.”

Your hands still, the pile of laundry forgotten as you listen closer. Did you hear that right? Another phrase sticks out next.

“It’s mine, Lori, you know it’s mine. It’s why you didn’t tell ‘im.”

What?

You feel a sinking sensation in your gut as the conversation continues. You knew there was something with them–that they potentially hooked up before Rick came back ‘from the dead’ as they always said. But jesus christ, this cemented the fact that they fucked numerous times. Your insides twisted at the thought. Had Shane had feelings for Lori before the world went to hell? While you were with him? Was this purely because the stress they went through on top of the fact her husband--his best friend--was dead?

Shane’s voice is intense, harder now, cutting through the still air around the house.

“You’re pregnant, Lori. What, you really think Rick’s gonna keep you and that baby safe out here? And Carl?”

You freeze, your breath catching in your throat. You shouldn’t be listening, but you can’t stop. They’re not talking about anything small anymore. This is big. This is huge .

But Shane doesn’t let her finish. “He ain’t made for this world, Lori. You know it. I know it. Hell, everyone knows it,”

Lori’s voice trembles. “You’re wrong—”

You hear Lori trying to explain at the fish fry, back before the CDC, Rick saving her and everyone else. The attack on the camp you joined them at. But that wasn’t quite right either, you were all there, vulnerable without half the man power of the group.

“He left us to go save a drug dealer!” Shane interjects.

The words hit you like a punch to the stomach. Your blood runs cold. Merle. You know Shane’s talking about Merle. Even with all his flaws, Merle had been like a brother to you, and hearing Shane dismiss him like that is enough to make your skin crawl. The ache of loss is still raw, but the anger is louder.

Your heart races as Shane’s voice rises again, but before you can process everything, you hear footsteps, and Shane is stalking off—towards you. His eyes catch yours as he moves away from Lori, his expression dark and frustrated. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees you sitting there.

You don’t back down. You look right back into the eyes that are boring into you, but you hold your ground, your pulse pounding in your ears.

Shane takes a step closer, a sneer curling on his lips. "What’s the matter? Didn’t hear enough? Or were you just eavesdroppin’ again?" His voice is full of venom, smug, daring you to challenge him.

You refuse to let him intimidate you, "You don’t need to talk so loud if you don’t want people to hear your dirty laundry,” you snip at him, snapping a shirt out to straighten it before folding.

Shane’s smirk deepens, but there’s something darker behind it now. “Funny. Last I checked, you didn’t mind sharin’ some secrets with me either,” he says, his tone full of implication. There’s no flirtation here, but the reminder of your past relationship hangs between you, and he’s using it against you again and again.

Your jaw clenches, but you keep your voice steady. “That was a long time ago, Shane. Don’t think for a second you get to use that against me. You and Lori have got to stop this bullshit. You’re always actin’ so weird with her. So what, you hook up a couple times in the woods and suddenly she belongs to you? Her husband is here. If she’s pregnant, it’s his. End of.”

His eyes narrow as he steps closer, invading your space, towering over you. “You think you got it all figured out now, don’t you? That you can run your mouth about stuff you don’t understand.”

“I understand enough,” you fire back, your voice low but firm. “I know about the threats. About Daryl. You don’t get to act like you own people, Shane—not me, not Lori, and sure as hell not Daryl.”

For a moment, Shane looks genuinely caught off guard. His head cocks to the side slightly, like he is thinking hard, but it’s brief, and his eyes cloud with anger again. He steps even closer, practically breathing down your neck, his tone dropping into something colder, more dangerous. “You don’t know shit about what I did. But you’d better watch your step, Y/N. I was tryna to keep you safe, still am dammit. Tryna keep everyone safe .”

“By threatening him?” you bite out. “You think that made me feel safe? Telling Lori her husband is no good? All you do is push people around when things don’t go your way.”

His face hardens, and for a second, you can see the fury bubbling just beneath the surface. “I don’t push people around for no reason,” he says through clenched teeth. “I do what needs to be done.”

You meet his eyes, unflinching. You stand, your face filling with heat, “You threatened him because you were scared. You couldn’t handle the idea that someone else might have my back. Someone who actually gave a shit about me. And now Lori doesn’t need you anymore, so you try to control her more and more."

Shane’s lips curl into an ugly sneer. “You got no idea what you're talkin' about, girl,"

Before you can retort, your lip curling, your eyes shift to behind him, at the edge of the woods where your eyes catch some sort of movement. Although the sun beats down with afternoon light, a chill runs down your spine.

It’s a walker—on a stick. The damn thing is still snarling, flailing as it’s dragged it along, the most insane spectacle you’ve ever seen. You blink, trying to make sense of it all. It’s Rick and Hershel with two walkers on the kind of long sticks you recognize from when you used to work at the dog shelter. The ones animal control would use on aggressive dogs to keep them at a distance. Jimmy is leading them along in the front.

Shane notices your demeanor change, your eyes going wide, and he turns to the sight. You can now hear the rattling breath and snarls of both walkers as they are led along to the old barn. You can almost see the boiling rage beneath his skin as Shane takes in the sight.

“What is that? What the hell is THAT?” His voice is low and seething, and suddenly he’s off, sprinting toward them. You barely register it before the rest of the group is moving too, guns in hand, everyone drawn by the sound of Shane’s fury. When were you allowed to have guns again? You catch Daryl’s eye as he rounds the corner too, and you both start running along with the rest of them.

“Why do your people have guns?” Hershel exclaims as you’re approaching. Your eyes are wide as you take in the scene up close. Rick’s knuckles are white as he pushes the walker along, his face in a snarl. By the time you catch up, Shane is standing in front of Hershel, his chest heaving with anger. “You see what they’re holding onto?” Shane's voice drips with disbelief, his finger jabbing toward the walker still thrashing on the end of Rick's pole.

Hershel’s face is grim, his grip on the pole tight, attached to another walker, as he struggles to keep the creature at bay. “I see who I’m holding onto,” he snaps, straining to guide the thing towards the barn.

“No, man. You don’t.” Shane’s voice rises again, his fury barely contained. The group stands in stunned silence, unable to tear their eyes away from the chaos unfolding in front of them. Shane continues, “These things ain’t sick, they ain’t people! They’re DEAD.”

The movement of the walkers and Rick and Hershel trying to hold on is overwhelming, dust is being kicked into the air as the undead swing their arms toward the group standing around. Dust whips into the air, swirling around the frenzied scene. Daryl raises his rifle next to you, his eyes fixed on the walkers, the barrel of the gun steady as he prepares to fire if need be.

“Hey, Hershel, let me ask you somethin’,” Shane’s voice is cutting, his eyes dark as he rounds in front of them. “Could a living, breathing person—could they walk away from this?” In one swift motion, Shane pulls his gun from his waistband, cocks it, and fires two rounds into the walker’s chest. Blood splatters, the thing flinches back from impact, but straightens up again even more riled up. Your body is tense, ready to act. Every muscle is coiled tight with the fear and adrenaline pumping through you.

Rick yells, trying to get him to stop, but it's no use. Shane just keeps going. The afternoon of frustration and rage is all boiling over out of him now.

The group flinches at the gunshots, but Glenn and Daryl still have guns raised high. You take one from Carol who holds hers down, like she's afraid to use it. She willingly gives it to you, and you hold it high to the riled walking corpse, ready to fire if need be.

“That’s three rounds in the chest,” Shane says forcefully, “could someone who’s alive, could they just take that?! WHY IS IT STILL COMIN?” Shane’s voice cracks as he fires again, his frustration pouring out with each gunshot. Rick is shouting, telling him to stop, but Shane is far beyond reason now. You can feel the tension in the air—thick, suffocating—your grip tightening on your rifle as you keep your eyes locked on the walkers, their dead eyes wild with hunger.

“SHANE, ENOUGH!” Rick screams.

“Yeah, you’re right, man. That is enough,” Shane mutters, voice hardening, before taking a final step forward. His eyes gleam with an almost dangerous clarity as he raises his gun one last time. The shot echoes in the air, and the walker’s head snaps back, crumpling lifeless to the ground. Blood pools beneath it, soaking into the earth like a final insult to Hershel’s desperate attempts to preserve the living. Everyone watches in stunned silence as the creature finally stops moving. Hershel’s grip on the pole falters as he falls to his knees, face pale with disbelief and anguish etched into his features. You glance at him briefly, and your stomach twists with sympathy—the weight of his loss, his denial about what the world had become, was breaking apart before your eyes. But Shane, relentless, isn’t finished.

“Enough risking our lives for a little girl who’s GONE!” Shane’s voice, hoarse with fury, pierces the stillness. His words hit you like a punch to the gut. Carol’s face crumples, her tears flowing freely as the reality of his words twist the knife deeper.

“ENOUGH living next to a barn full of things that are tryin’ to kill us!” Shane’s anger propels him forward, his feet pounding the ground as he rushes toward the barn door. You feel your own heartbeat quicken as you realize what he’s about to do.

“Shane, no!” You find your voice, but it’s drowned out by the chaos. Shane grabs a nearby garden hoe, smashing it against the chain keeping the barn doors locked. Rick is yelling at him, pleading for him to stop, his voice ragged with desperation, but it’s too late.

With a final strike, the lock breaks open.

For a moment, there’s nothing. Just the eerie silence, broken only by the sound of your pounding heart and the rustling of leaves in the wind. Then, the first walker stumbles out, dragging its rotting feet through the dirt. Its dead eyes fix on the group, snarling as it lurches toward you.

Shane doesn’t hesitate. He raises his gun, firing round after round into the advancing walkers. The group erupts into chaos—Glenn, T-Dog, Andrea, everyone is firing off guns in every direction. The sharp, deafening sound of gunfire fills the air, mingling with the guttural growls of the walkers.

You pull the trigger, the recoil slamming into your shoulder as you take down one walker after another. Each shot is like a weight lifting from your chest, but the horror of the moment presses down on you harder than ever. These walkers—these monsters—they were once people. Hershel’s family. And now they’re being gunned down like animals.

Your breath comes in ragged bursts as you keep firing, your mind racing. This wasn’t what you wanted. This wasn’t what anyone wanted.

To your left, you see Daryl, his face set in a grim expression, his rifle steady as he takes down walker after walker with precision. Sweat drips down his brow, but his eyes are locked onto the task, focused. He’s always focused. You glance at him briefly, drawing strength from his presence.

Then, just as suddenly as it began, the shooting stops. The air is thick with the acrid scent of gunpowder and blood. The ground is littered with bodies. The only sounds are the heavy breathing of the people around you, breathless from the scene.

There’s a soft, low snarling coming from the barn now. The shadows begin to move behind the door, and you don’t take your eyes off the wooden barn entrance. Everyone is looking around at the massacre, but you don’t shift your position. A small, thin leg comes out wearing a girl’s sneaker. As you aim for the forehead–

You lower your gun, your breath getting stuck in your throat. You feel your windpipe closing from pure horror. The little girl walks out, dirty and decomposing. Her short strawberry blonde hair is matted and tinged with dirt now. Her face is blue, lifeless, except for the furrowed brows and lip pulled back in a growl.

Sophia.

Carol’s scream shatters the air. She breaks from the group, running toward her daughter, tears streaming down her face. But before she can reach Sophia, Daryl is there, grabbing her around the waist, pulling her back. They collapse to the ground together, Carol sobbing into his chest, while he holds her tight, his own face twisted in grief.

Your knees buckle, and you sink to the ground, unable to tear your eyes away from the little girl who had once been full of life, now nothing more than a shell. Your hands come up to your face, watching through your fingers. The rifle you were holding goes clattering to the ground.

The others are silent. Everyone is frozen in shock, watching as Sophia stumbles closer, her growls growing louder.

Rick steps forward, his face pale, his eyes full of unspeakable sorrow. His gun trembles slightly in his hand, but he steadies it, raising it toward the little girl. He hesitates for a long moment, his finger hovering over the trigger as he looks into her lifeless eyes. Then, brows furrowed in concentration, he pulls the trigger.

The gunshot echoes through the air, and Sophia crumples to the ground, lifeless.

The silence that follows is deafening. There are no words—just the soft wind rustling the trees and the quiet sound of Carol’s sobs.

x flashback x

You were sitting in the empty campus library one late afternoon, the pale light from early autumn casting long shadows across the rows of books. The sound of soft classical music filtered through the air, coming from an old radio tucked behind the checkout desk. But it wasn’t the music that caught your attention. The dial is behind turned as it switches to a news station.

“…the virus is spreading faster than anticipated, with reports now coming from neighboring countries. Officials are urging caution but insist there is no need for panic at this time. The CDC has released a statement—”

Your fingers froze over the keys of your laptop, the word "virus" sparking a discomfort you couldn’t quite explain. The reporter’s calm voice blended with the hum of the old AC unit, but the words sank in deeper than they should. "Epidemic," "spread," "caution"—words you should have brushed off, but instead, they stuck. Your hands faltered over your half-written essay, and the gnawing feeling in your gut grew as the monotony of life around you continued without a hitch.

It was only the beginning of your sophomore year, but you already felt like you were moving through a fog. The truth was, your mind had been anywhere but on classes.

Daryl.

You’d been thinking about him too much lately—his absence felt more like a bruise than it ever had before. It wasn’t just that he wasn’t calling, texting, or reaching out. It was that the last time you saw him, everything had gone wrong. The memory of that fight, of his fists flying into the faces of Merle’s friends while you sat frozen in shock, replayed in your head like a broken record. Why had it escalated so quickly? Why had Daryl looked so furious, so confused, when he saw you there? It was almost as if he couldn’t believe you were mixed up in that situation. You were grateful he came in when he did, but the way he reacted so violently had taken you by surprise. You weren't even expecting to see him. Although, and you'd never admit it, you were hoping to. Always hoping to.

You replayed the sound of him storming out of that house over and over again in your head. He didn’t even stop to check if you were okay—just left you sitting there with your heart in your throat, staring at the blood on the faces of the two guys, stains of it on the walls and carpet. And you couldn’t understand why. What had he seen that made him so volatile? Why could he barely look at you?

You didn’t even notice that your knee was bouncing under the desk, your nerves manifesting in small, jittery movements.

You saw the librarian at the front desk messing with the radio dials, stations going in and out. The news broadcast switched to static for a second and cut to an old classic rock station, the familiar notes of a guitar riff easing some of the tension in your shoulders. But not enough.

It felt like the world was tipping on its axis. Maybe it was just the stress of school, or maybe it was the unresolved tension that had been hanging between you and Daryl since that night. Honestly, since the night you left freshman year. You always knew he didn’t approve of Shane, but the way things ended up, you couldn’t believe that was the only reason he was avoiding you. Was he tired of you always coming to him with your issues? Maybe he’d had enough of the drama in your life, or found a girlfriend. Your stomach panged at the thought of him with a girl–the fact he wouldn’t want to tell you. The radio crackled again, another news update slipping through, but this time, it was drowned out by your own thoughts.

You wondered what would happen if you tried to reach out to him again. Would it be the same silence? The same avoidance? You almost pulled out your phone to text him, but something held you back. Maybe it was pride, maybe it was fear that things really were different now. Or maybe it was that nagging feeling in your gut that told you Daryl didn’t want to be found, not by you—not by anyone.

And just like that, the weirdness of it all settled into your bones. The quiet campus, the unsettling radio broadcasts about this strange virus, the thick cloud of confusion surrounding Daryl and what happened back home—it all felt like the calm before a storm you couldn’t quite name yet.

You tried to focus on your assignment, but all you could think about was how everything felt like it was unraveling, slowly but surely.

#daryl #daryl dixon #twd daryl #the walking dead #daryl x reader #the walking dead daryl #daryl one shot #daryl fanfiction #daryl dixion imagine #daryl twd #the ruins of us

32 notes · View notes

leonstoenailunderhisbed · 7 months ago

Text

Insurgency: Long Live The Queen

Summary: A totalitarian regime reigns over a South American country in which the virus is being distributed to its citizens at the pretense of a “cure.” Leon was sent to retrieve a sample of the virus mutation when he stumbled upon a group of anti-government activists whose main goal is to overthrow their government. Will Leon help the cause or will he fall down with the government as well?

Warning: Mentions of mature themes. Read at your own discretion. Slow burn. Age gap (Leon is 38 and reader is 21+). Reader is female.

Word count: 5,105

A/N: how we feeling about this so far? :3

[part one][part two][part three][part four][part five][part six][part seven][part eight][bonus]

“The whole question here is: Am I a monster, or a victim myself?” - Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment.

Leon was put into a room after you guys reached La Sénte. He was given food and water as well as a bed for him.

What a nice welcome, he thought.

You were currently in a meeting room with Yarina and other Insurgents.

“The president is on to us. She knows we’ve been the ones targeting her military. From now on, we’ll be facing death head on. This is no time for hesitations. We must act or die,” Yarina stated as she looked down at the papers scattered on the table.

“Yarina, we can’t risk losing people. We will be outnumbered if we want to go to the city states-“

“Enough,” Yarina slams her fists on the table, “We cannot sit back and watch as President Mendez treats our lives as rag dolls. Yes, there’s a chance we will die but I’d rather die fighting than die a coward.”

Silence overtook the room, the atmosphere was tense and heavy. Ever since the President had broadcasted the message of public executions, everyone’s been at edge. Including you.

“Why don’t we use the American?” One of the insurgents spoke up, he seemed to be the secretary of Yarina. “How do we use him exactly?” She asked.

“A life for a life. We send a message to President Mendez demanding that she freed all the captured civilians. In return, we’ll give him to her-“

“A swap,” you interjected. “It won’t work-“ you turned to look at Yarina, “Listen, those soldiers- they’re nothing like the ones we’ve seen. San Bandero is protected by tanks and endless troops. We’ll die the second we step foot there.”

Yarina hums and brought a hand to her chin as she thought hard.

“We’ll split up,” she pointed to the map, “Half of the available Insurgents will storm right into the city with our bomb artillery. I’m talking tanks and rocket launchers. The other half will go underground and perform an evacuation for the remaining citizens who are unharmed. I want this to be quick and efficient. We have no room for mistakes. Prioritize the children.”

Everyone nodded and began to scurry out of the meeting room to prepare for battle. “Y/n, can I talk to you for a second?”

You stopped walking and walked back towards her.

“I heard about what you did for Josue, that was really heroic of your part,” she said quietly.

“It was nothing, really,” you muttered back with a short nod.

Yarina chuckled and patted your back, “Humble too. You never fail to surprise me.”

She cleared her throat before continuing, “Listen, I didn’t just held you back to talk about your accomplishments.”

You could only nod slowly in silence, “I actually wanted to let you know that if I were to die tonight… I want you as our leader.”

Your eyes widened at her statement and you felt your throat run dry, “Yarina… don’t say that. How are you sure you’re-“

“Y/n. There is no guarantee that I’ll make it alive after the mission. The President is on to us and once she finds out that I’m the leader, she’ll kill me.”

You could only stare at her in silence. What she said was true. If President Mendez were to find out that Yarina was the leader of the rebelling group then she’ll most definitely die.

“Okay,” you nodded and agreed quietly, “I’ll do my best to be a good leader.”

Yarina smiled softly and squeezed your arm, “Good, now let’s get this mission over with.”

Leon heard the sounds of footsteps through the halls.

They must be making their next move, he thought.

He wondered how exactly everything started. Getting captured by a group of people who want to overthrow the government wasn’t really on his to-do list. But alas here he was.

The food was way better than other times he’s been to other missions. He had to give you guys credit for having edible bread and good chicken.

You were put into the group of Insurgents who will storm right into the city. Currently, you seating in a car with other members. Weapons in hands and boxes full of explosives ready to be used.

As you were driven there, the sun began to set. You’ve gotten used to fighting in the dark. It was better since the soldiers’ helmets didn’t really allow them to see at night. This was your advantage.

As you neared the city entry, everyone jumped out of the car and proceeded to blend in with the trees and bushes that surrounded the area.

Hiding behind a bush, you kept watch as the person next to you took out their rocket launcher and shot the city.

Multiple bombs were set off, each hitting a different thing. Buildings, tanks, soldiers- anything they can shoot. The ground shook and insurgents ran out of their hiding spot and began to attack the confused soldiers.

Your weapon ready in your hand, you shot the soldiers in front of you. You managed a few headshots. It was good that you had improved your skills ever since this whole thing started, it was good you were becoming alive.

As the insurgents in the sewer system began to drive the citizens of San Bandero out, they felt the ground shook. They needed to get out of there quickly before the roads collapsed on top of them.

“Madam President, there’s an attack in San Bandero. A group of rebels are shooting out soldiers and bombing out buildings. Do you want-“

“No,” the President cut the assistant off. She was angry, more angry than anyone has ever seen her. She stood up and walked towards the window to see. And sure enough, fire and smoke came out of San Bandero.

“Find their leader and bring them to me. I will end this once and for all,” the President said as she walked away from the window and back to her desk.

You and Yarina were fighting back to back as the soldiers tried to pounce at you both.

“Fuck! I’m out,” Yarina exclaimed as she tried to shoot with her gun but no bullets came out.

You took Yarina by the arm and dragged her into a collapsed building, giving both of you enough time to reload your weapons.

Yarina was busy reloading her gun as you kept watch, “Yarina…” your eyes widened as you stared at the TV on the tower. Yarina grew confused and then looked out towards the TV as well.

It was a video footage of the sewers- the citizens walking while the insurgents helped them out.

“Citizens of Pruye, let this be a reminder that traitorous acts do not go unpunished. Everyone in relation to rebellion will face consequences,” the President spoke.

Suddenly, a bomb fell down from a plane and into the roads. You and Yarina took cover behind a fallen piece of debris. The ground shook tremendously as heat and light took over.

You couldn’t hear anything for a good minute, only the constant ringing. You peeked at the scene and saw that the bomb had fallen right on top of the people evacuating. Your eyes trailed towards the TV and couldn’t help but let out a soft sob.

Children, women, men and insurgents lying dead on the floor. No trace of life after the explosion. Smoke and ashes filled the air and your hearing got back.

You heard Yarina scream and turned your head over your shoulder to find Yarina being taken away by two soldiers, “¡¡Come mierdas- todos ustedes!!”

You were about to start running towards her but another soldier lunged at you, pinning you the ground. You gripped their wrist and tried to not let them stab with the knife they had in their hands. With as much energy you could muster, you harshly threw the soldier off of you and shot them in the head with your gun.

You looked back at where Yarina was last seen but she was gone. Panic and anxiety coursed through you. You didn’t want to think about it. But you knew Yarina was going to die.

It’s been three hours since Yarina got captured. The remnants of San Bandero were the only thing that remained of what was once a lively city. Now it was just debris and dead bodies all around.

Some insurgents were being treated for their wounds and others were patrolling the streets. You were sitting down the sidewalk as you contemplated what to do.

It wasn’t until the TV on the tower turned on and President Mendez spoke,

“Citizens of Pruye, with every heartbreak comes good news. Although a city of ours has been destroyed, we too, have something that is worth destroying for those who oppose me.”

The camera pans to Yarina kneeling down before a soldier who has a gun pointed at her forehead. Her hands were tied behind her back as she had a piece of cloth around her mouth, gagging her.

“Yarina…” you whispered as you stood up and stared at the screen.

“Let this be a lesson for all. You cannot win a helpless fight,” the President continued.

The soldier hooked his finger around the trigger all while Yarina maintained eye contact with him. She didn’t fear death, she wasn’t scared in that moment. Yarina is a smart person, she’s known all along that by starting this rebellion she’d face her ultimate death. Not once did she flinch nor did she beg for mercy.

She took a deep breath and let her body fall to the ground after the soldier pulled the trigger. The bullet penetrating her skull, sucking the life out of her. A poodle of blood surrounded her head as she died with her eyes opened.

Gasps and screams were heard from the other insurgents around you. You, yourself, felt anger. Anger at yourself, anger at the government, anger at the whole world. But beneath all that anger, was a girl who feared and cried. She was hurt- you were hurt. And nothing is this world could do anything to settle the turmoil inside you.

Leon was brought to the meeting room right after everyone reached base. News of Yarina’s death reached everyone, including him.

You stood at the center of the table, the proclaimed new leader. Your whole demeanor changed, you were serious and angry. Your eyes held a pain that only Leon could guess and relate to, because he also knew what it felt like to lose people right in front of your eyes.

He didn’t say anything and allowed the insurgents to pull him in front of the table.

“Change of plans,” you started as you began to motion for everyone around the table, including Leon. He raised a brow but obliged.

“Everyone knows San Jolonia has medical supplies and weapons we can use. If we are going to fight Mendez, we must be ready,” your brows were pinched together and your tone was serious and a little terrifying to some.

“But San Jolonia has been abandoned. The President ordered for people to leave the city,” one of the insurgents said. You nodded, “I know, hence why I need to take this opening and take as much as we can- guns, medicine, food, clothes. I won’t let anything go to waste.”

“Wait… you’ll go by yourself? Y/n I don’t think that’s safe, you saw what happened to-“

“I know,” you mumbled and stared down at the map in the center of the table, “San Jolonia is abandoned. Plus, the American is coming with me.”

The insurgent’s eyes widened and Leon only stared at you with mild shock.

“Y/n- you can’t trust him. What if he-“

“If I wanted to kill her, I would’ve done so already,” Leon interjected. He stared at you and you stared back, the tension high.

“I saw what happened to one of your people,” Leon continued just a little bit softer. The atmosphere turned solemn and some insurgents looked away as he began to talk about Yarina.

Leon sighed, “I want to help.”

You furrowed your brows and narrowed your eyes in skepticism, “Why?”

“Because no one should deal with this type of control. You are fighting against a dictator and you’ll need all the help you can get…” he exhaled and looked away briefly, “I’ve seen people die in front of me as well. Feeling helpless and unable to do anything to save everyone… it’s a shitty feeling.”

Your face fell and you nodded slowly, he looked back at you from across the table, “Let me join you. If there’s anyway I can help, I’ll take it. No more innocent lives need to die.”

He was right, in a way. If you want to bring down the government, you’ll need help. And Leon was an American soldier. They’re known to be ruthless and strong. It would a great asset to have him.

“Okay,” you nodded, “untie him.”

An insurgent went behind Leon and untied his hands. He massaged his wrists and then looked at you.

“You and I are leaving tonight, do not be late,” it was the last thing you told him before you left the room.

You waited for Leon at the gate, it was dark outside. The night breeze flowing gently through the trees and grass. Leon approached you as he was checking his gun.

"You ready?" you asked him before opening the gate. He nodded at you, "Yeah, let's get this over with."

Since it was nighttime, you decided not to use a vehicle. It was dangerous already if the soldiers were to notice a vehicle roaming around, then they'd most likely shoot you. So, you settled on foot.

As you and Leon walked through the forest, he couldn't help but make small talk with you.

"So..." he started quietly as he pushed some branches out of his face.

"So?" you mumbled as you led the way, "Whatever you want to say, just say it."

He hummed and chuckled faintly behind you, "Aren't you the nice one..." He shook his head and walked beside you.

"Listen, I don't doubt your skills or anything..."

"But?" You raised a brow as you glanced at him before looking back at the forest.

"But don't you think you should... take a break? I mean- a lot has happened to you and not taking the time to process what just happened can cause you to-"

You stopped and turned to face him, "I didn't ask for a therapist. I'm fine- we need to push forward."

He sighed and watched as you walked ahead of him. He sighed and followed behind you.

You both reached the outskirts of San Jolonia, abandoned and ruined. Must've been President Mendez's doing.

"Don't stray off too far," you said as you walked towards the entrance of the city state, "I don't you to get lost so just keep close."

Leon nodded and silently walked behind you. It was completely silent, except for the sound of your footsteps. The night was cold and the air was soft. You walked towards an abandoned pharmacy and began to stuff your bag with as many things as possible. Leon stood behind you, keeping watch in case something were to come out.

There was a strange peace between the two of you. Like as if both of you already knew what the other thought. When you're involved in a battle, it can help bring people together.

And Leon couldn't help but feel sympathy for you. You were young, too young to be in something like this. Sure, wanting to fight for your freedom is a noble cause. But he also understands the pain that comes with it. He's conflicted. He wants to help in two ways- wants to fight alongside you but he also wants to avoid a war. But you seem set on the idea of war and there's nothing in his power that can change that.

You weren't dumb, you knew Leon thought this. It was written in his face. The man had a great sense of justice and only cared for the lives of the unfortunate. If you had to guess, you'd say he probably feels a lot of guilt. A guilt that kept on piling up as the years went by.

"We should camp out, it's getting late," You broke the silence and walked towards another abandoned building.

One of its walls was collapsed while parts of the ceiling were missing. You stepped inside the ruined building and began to set up a fire. Leon was too far behind, he walked slowly as his eyes looked around. It wasn’t everyday that he would get pulled into events like this.

After you started a fire, you sat in front of it and began to pull out some food you brought, “Hungry?”

Leon looked at you and shook his head no, “I’m good, thanks.” He went over to sit next to you as you shrugged, “Suit yourself,” you muttered under your breath before you took a bite out of a piece of bread.

Leon stared at the fire in silence. He was aware of the occasional glances you’d throw him but he hasn’t said anything, yet.

You sighed and looked back at the fire, remaining in silence once again.

“Why are you here?” You mumbled and looked at him.

“You told me to come-“

“That wasn’t what I meant,” you cut him off. “What made you come to this place?”

He looked back down at you before shrugging faintly and looking back at the fire, “Got sent here. Wasn’t really my choice.”

His voice was quiet and the light from the fire highlighted his features. You never actually sat down to get a good look at him but now that were, you couldn’t help but think hoe handsome he was. His foggy blue eyes piercing down at the flames as his dark fringe fell down the sides of his face. His stubble had been growing for a while- maybe even before he got sent here.

You exhaled softly and looked back at the fire, “So you were forced…”

He nodded, “Yep. I mean, it’s also partly my fault in a way. I work for the government and I get these… missions. Shits crazy when life hits you with the consequences of your actions, don’t you think?”

“I guess…” you mumbled and looked down at the bread in your hands, “So, you’re like a personal soldier or something?”

Leon chuckled and looked at you for a brief moment, “You’ve been watching way too many American movies.”

This time, you smiled softly and looked back at him, “What can I say? You Americans are the leaders of entertainment.”

That caused him to smile back, “Good point…” he exhaled softly before looking back at the fire, “But no. I’m not a personal soldier or whatever. I’m just an agent. I work in the defense department, lots of fighting.”

You hummed quietly and looked back at the fire in silence for a moment before speaking up in a cautious tone, “Was it your dream to become an agent?”

Leon felt his body freeze at that question. He blinked slowly as his expression fell slightly and then looked at you with a pained expression, “No, it’s not.”

Your own expression mimicked his as he continued, “I wanted to be a cop. Like the ones in Brooklyn 99 or Chicago P.D. But after…” he quickly trailed off, deciding whether or not he could tell you about Raccoon City.

“After?” You asked,

“After Raccoon City,” he replied quietly.

You were aware of what happened in Raccoon City. It made global news how the U.S. nuked it’s own people. But no one knew as much as Leon and you could tell that it left him with a big weight on his shoulders.

“When I escaped Raccoon City, my whole life changed… I was no longer the 21 year old rookie cop,” his gaze trailed on, no long focusing on the fire. Right now, he was somewhere else.

“I met this girl, when the whole Raccoon City thing started, she was like 10 or 11- and I couldn’t help but feel… anger. Not at her, obviously, but at everyone else. Children died that day, sisters… brothers… everyone died and I couldn’t save them,” he inhaled sharply,

“It felt like everyone moved on and I’m still stuck in that same fucking time-loop…” he looked down at you, “Not a day goes by where I don’t dream about it. About everything.”

You stared back at him and watched as his eyes told the story. His raw emotions emanated from within, “To this day, I still see them. Every figure and shadow of what remained of that goddamn city. The guilt to not have been able to help… it hurts more than anything in the world.”

He turned to look back at the fire in silence. You’ve never seen someone so hurt. Although it took you by the surprise, you couldn’t help but feel bad for him. All those years that went by and he’s still in the same place.

“Is that why you’re helping us? Because you don’t want to feel guilt?” You asked quietly.

He nodded, “If I can help… I wouldn’t let the opportunity pass by. I’ll take hold of whatever chance I get to save people.”

You stared at him for a moment in silence. It was very noble of him basically risking his life for people- dangerous but very noble.

"You know," you started quietly, "I didn't even know how to fight before.. all of this even started." Leon raised his brow at you and then chuckled. He shook his head and stared back at you, "I can tell. When we first fought, you had so many openings."

You rolled your eyes at him and then looked back at orange flames, "Give me a break. I was just some random girl working in a canteen... before chaos took place," memories of when the soldiers first came with their tanks filled your mind. You sat there in silence before finally saying something. If he basically trauma dumped on you then why shouldn't you as well?

"My brother died from a soldier," you mumbled softly as you fiddled with the bread, "He was out with his friends one night and some soldiers came up to him. They tried to arrest him but he resisted and eventually... he got shot."

The words barely came out of your mouth. It was painful to rethink about all of the deaths that happened, but Leon knew that. He understands the pain.

"I'm sorry about your brother," he mumbled. You swatted your hand in the air before looking back at him, "He wasn't the only one I lost. I lost my two friends from my job... we got bombed and one of them got squashed by a building and the other... bled to death..."

Leon remained silent as he listened to you. He may not have been there when all of that happened, but he knew the pain.

A dry chuckle escaped your lips, "And now Yarina is dead, and I became the leader of her group... I feel like life is mocking me. It's like, 'Hey! You lost your friends but don't worry! You'll lose more people'... These types of battles don't go well- i know that. But a part of me wishes that i should've just left. Left for America for a better future... Instead, I'm stuck here leading a rebellion." You took a bite out the bread and got quiet. Leon was just watching you, reading you. He could tell you were in a lot of pain, more pain than you believe.

He sighed and looked back at the fire, "Life's been shitty to the both of us, huh?"

The ends of your lips curled up slightly as you nodded, "Pretty much."

"You look young... life can get better for you, trust me," he mumbled softly.

"I don't feel young. Does it ever actually get better?" you asked as you turned your head to look at him.

He looked back at you and shook his head, "No, it doesn't... but you learn to live with it."

"I don't want to live with it... I want to forget everything ever even happened. I want to live a normal life..."

Leon looked at you with sad eyes, "But that's not the case, is it? You can dream all you want but the hard truth will always drag you back to reality... and it's a reality you must live in."

You stared into his eyes for a moment in silence as he stared back at you. The atmosphere was complicated. One minute you were cautious of him and then the next you express your inner emotions to him. And now the tension was high. For what? You don't know but you could swear you saw his eyes drift down to your lips.

It's not like you were a virgin, you had your own experiences. But yet, you felt something starting to build inside you and you could almost see it in him as well. Feelings were growing when they shouldn't be.

Your eyes drifted down to his and you leaned a little closer. But your subconscious mind pulled you back. You turned your head away, "We shouldn't..." you whispered.

He looked at you for a moment, his eyes lingering on your lips, "Says who?"

"This is wrong. It feels wrong... I mean, we're in the middle of an incoming war. Is it even okay?"

Leon brought his hand to your cheek and gently forced you to look back at him, "You're not killing anybody. It's okay," he whispered as his thumb caressed your cheek.

You swallowed and allowed him to gently pull you towards him. You closed your eyes and felt his breath on your face as he brought you two together.

His lips landed on yours in a soft kiss. Lips so soft and tender despite the environment. He kissed you gently and brought you closer as you rested your hands on his shoulders. His free hand traveling to your waist, giving it a gentle squeeze. You gasped softly against his lips and he took the opportunity to bring his tongue inside your mouth. His tongue entangled itself with your tongue. It felt so intimate yet so calm. He was kissing you as if he didn't want to hurt you. You've been hurt far too much already but this kiss felt like a band-aid on top of your scars.

He pulled apart to catch his breath, eyes opening to look at your face. Your cheeks were flushed and your eyes were already staring at his. He brushed some hair out of your face and tucked it behind your ear. There was a moment of silence as the two of you just sat there staring at each other.

"Rest," he whispered, "We still have a lot of things to do tomorrow."

You nodded slowly and laid down on your side, giving your back to Leon. You closed your eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Leon watched as you fell asleep, he took off his jacket and laid it on top of you. So many thoughts lingered in Leon's mind but he also had questions about your previous conversation.

He knew death was inevitable but seeing everyone- including you- fight with so much resolve made him believe that you had the opportunity to do something he couldn't.

To save people.

He wasn't jealous or mad, rather, he felt a sense of guilt. He didn't want to see you die. Leon wanted to see you and the rest of your people overthrow the government. He beg the heavens above to let you live just a little bit longer if it meant seeing you free this country.

He'd plead to whoever.

An announcement alarm went off and the TV from the tower turned on. Flashing images of people lined up, kneeling down with bags over their heads, with soldiers behind them pointing their guns at their heads.

You woke up as stared at the screen, which Leon did was well. The two of you watched as the soldiers began to shoot the people one by one. Their bodies falling limp against the floor and letting the blood pool around them.

Your heart felt heavy and you tried to move but couldn't. You were frozen in place.

"We've captured more traitors who must pay the price for their treason," President Mendez said.

You felt anger. Some were children.

In a fit of anger, you took your gun and dashed out of the ruined building you were in. Leon followed behind you, "Wait- where are you going?"

You ignored him and kept walking. He ran behind you and pulled your arm to stop you, "Y/n..."

Eyes welling up with tears of anger, you looked at him with so much anger, "Those were kids. And she's killing them like pieces in a game. I need to do something-" you harshly pulled your arm away from him and ran towards the tower. Leon quickly caught up to you and hooked his arm around your waist. He hoisted you up in the air and you thrashed in his hold.

You cried. Sobbed and screamed in anger. The once silent abandoned city was now filled with your angry screams.

"Let me go!" You struggled against him, but he didn't move. He knew you were going through a meltdown, and it wasn't safe for you to act in a fit of anger.

"I said let me go!!... let me go," your head fell forward as he slowly put you down on the floor. You clung to him as you cried loudly. You were so angry and hurt. This was the last straw for you.

It was heartbreaking, really. There was nothing you could do except watch as these innocent people died. President Mendez won this battle but you vowed to yourself that you'll win this war.

War.

You declared war.

Both you and Leon walked back to base. Something changed in you as you walked through the halls and towards the meeting room.

You slammed your fists on the table, "Send a message to the president," you started with anger on your tone and face.

"Tell her that tomorrow morning, we will start a war. And we will win this war."

The other insurgents looked at you and then at Leon who stood behind you. They all stood still and you only got more angry.

"I said- send her a fucking message that says we declare war on her. Now."

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon scott kennedy #resident evil #id leon kennedy #leon kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x y/n #leon kennedy x you #leon s kennedy x reader #leon smut #leon #leon kennedy smut #di leon

47 notes · View notes

0asisbliss · 5 months ago

Note

yandere kurapika x reader zombie nen au

Pairing: Yan!Kurapika x fem!Reader

A/N: Thank you for requesting I might start back taking requests since I have a little bit more free time. Sorry for the wait, and any spelling errors.

TW: Use of violence. (Guns)

Kurapika was so sweet even though he was uptight, and he had his moments where he didn’t understand things. He was human. So when a virus that spread quickly through Japan, and eventually the world. He has his mind set on making sure you stay alive, and healthy. You urged him to let you leave to check on your mother and friends. He offered to do it for you, but then again you didn’t want Kurapika going out there by himself. What if he doesn’t come back? What if he comes back, and tells you bad news about your mother? Either way things could be worse.

“I just want to keep you safe, and you know that I’m not going to keep explaining myself continuously.”

“I- Kurapika wait-.”

“I’ll be back don’t go anywhere. Don’t listen to the whisperers if they try to lure you. What did I say to remember?”

“Reality is different from the dead.”

“Good.” Kurapika patted your head before leaving to go, and check on your mother.

Kurapika has you located in a cabin in a forest you’ve never been before. It was small and comfy. He made sure to get the both of you out of the city, and around people. He had friends. Two little boys, and another man. Leorio, Gon, and Killua. You seemed worried for them when you first met them. It was when the virus first panned out. You thought they would be scared, and afraid. They were actually excited to learn about the zombies, and the virus. They even listed them in categories with Kurapika. There were 4 categories.

Walkers, creepers, Crawlers, and Roamers.

Walkers are your typical zombies, they walk around day and night and over time eventually rot. Disadvantages: Their skin rots after a week, blind, overly slow. Advantages: enhanced hearing.

Creepers usually come out at night. They hide during the day to avoid rotting in the sunlight. They usually come out at night to bite, and eat any living thing that comes in their path.

Advantages: They have enhanced nerves the signal the sign of sun-burn which is why they usually hide in the day. They have amazing hiding skills

Disadvantages: They usually stay in one place, and don’t really move unless it’s night time. Blind.

Crawlers crawl on all fours. You can find them in the day, and you can find them at night.

Advantages: They are super fast. Enhanced hearing.

Disadvantages: Blind.

Roamers are zombie that used nen when they were alive. They roam the earth day and night. They still use their nen techniques, but they bend their techniques in ways that will help them eat living things and lure out the uninfected.

Advantages: Enhanced hearing and sight. Super fast at running and walking. Can use nen. Intelligent. Looks humanly. (Could be mistaken for a human)

Disadvantages: None.

These were the categories for each “zombie”. Kurapika taught you this, so you could be aware. He made these categories from research, and observations. You didn’t know why you needed to know about them though since he almost never lets you leave the cabin. Sometimes you go out and along the plantation, but that’s it. Gon, Killua, and Leorio comes over from time to time, they keep you company and for that your greatful. Maybe you can get them to talk to Kurapika? Sometimes you missed them because they don’t come over as often anymore. They send Kurapika multiple letters letting him know they’re alive, and doing well.

You got up to make dinner for Kurapika. He usually comes back home at night from hunting for food, and looking for resources. There was scratching at the windows. You’ve hearing it for hours. You assumed it was birds. There were no zombies out this far right? Kurapika told you that he encountered a zombie deer a week ago, and that we should watch what we haunt and eat.

Even if it was one of those creepy mutant animals. What were you going to do? Kurapika left multiple guns, and bullets in case you needed them when he was gone. You don’t even want to peep out the window because of how scared you were.

Which category was the fastest again? Creepers? Walkers? All of sudden you forgot every single thing about the chart Kurapika told you to memorize. The scratching got louder and louder. You then heard the door close and slam shut.

Kurapika cam through the front door breathing heaving and there was a hint of fear in his face.

“Darling go in the bedroom and lock the door now.”

You didn’t think twice and rushed towards upstairs. You went into the master’s bedroom and locked the door behind you. You heard ringing gunshots, and heavy footsteps. You heard one final gunshot then it went eerily quiet. There were footsteps coming up the stairs, but you stayed out and quiet. You heard the door knob twist, but whoever was at the door couldn’t get in because of the lock.

“Honey, let me in yeah? It’s Kurapika. The zombies are dead.”

You got the shotgun Kurapika stored under your shared bed and loaded it.

“Kurapika? Baby?” Your voice shaky with fear.

“Yes Honey? Let me in.”

“Don’t listen to it. It’s not me. Darling!” The voice sounded familiar it was smooth, and almost soothing like Kurapika’s real voice.

“Honey. That’s one of the monsters let me in so we can leave this zombie ridden forest forever.” His was the same. It sounded just the same.

If there was one thing you knew about Kurapika he wouldn’t let you leave this place even if you asked the thing outside the door wasn’t Kurapika. This was a Roamer.

You opened the door and blasted a big one in the center of the Roamer zombie. You finally heard Kurapika come up the stairs, and he made the finishing blow with gun.

“Always shoot for the head love.” His voice was soft and loving almost like he enjoyed killing the Roamer with you.

“Yeah, my bad.” You scratched behind your neck trying to hide your embarrassment.

“It’s okay darling. I’ll clean this up and you go finish dinner yeah?”

And even after all this you smiled thankful to still be alive.

#hxh x reader #hxh 1999 #hxh kurapika #hxh 2011 #yandere kurapika #kurapika x reader #kurapika #kurapika kurta #kurta #hunter x hunter x reader #hxh #hunter x hunter

53 notes · View notes