#tomorrow i'll ran out of art to post but who cares

[postergadorart]

"No matter where I go to offer aid, Link remains at my side"

ever since i read that in game all i could picture was this

[rimeiii]

What in Hell is Bad Demon Kings as Arknights Operators

(If you saw this before, it's because my Tumblr app glitched out and sent the draft before I was done orz)

So, funny story!

With every single WHB demon king already obtaining a playable version, I found myself thinking of the very hypothetical scenario of Asmodeus facing off against Mlynar, an AK Operator who also doesn't do normal attacks (he'd lose imo, our local jaded horse uncle salaryman Mlynar is OP for a reason yo). But this turned into thinking about every single demon lord in the context of them as AK Operators...

I also kinda need to appease the gacha gods by providing any sort of content, because Logos's banner drops on the 31st of October (which is tomorrow oh my god) and even though I may already have a spark ready for him (300 pulls) and enough materials to max him out day 1, I want as many copies as possible for the AK equivalent of his tea leaves.

I could've had more but I spent like 240 pulls in the past 6 months to grab several other 6* Operators, notably a guaranteed new Operator on the celebration banner (Penance in ~60), ~50 in Zuo Le's banner (got him), another 10 on Ascalon's banner (didn't get her), and a whopping 120 on Ela's banner (R6S collab, collab banners have hard pity at 120 pulls).

Update for those who care - yeah, it worked! 160 pulls for my first copy, immediately ran to fully upgrade him before pulling again, and got another two within the next 140. Welcome home husband ❤

Some ground rules before we get into the meat of the post, however:

I'll be using the Selfie cards as main inspiration, pulling in lore for any other adjustments.

Will also be putting down some skill info! Skills will assume 6* standards, meaning they have a total of three skills to choose from and two passive skills in total (Talents).

I won't be doing Modules, skill names, and skill numbers, to preserve my sanity.

Without further ado...

Satan

Satan's Selfie card has an insanely long range and strong single-target damage, but his skill deals AoE damage. That's why I think he could be a Deadeye Sniper. This, despite him apparently sharing the same seiyuu as Totter, a Besieger Sniper.

Deadeye Snipers have high Attack, a large range (extends in a triangular shape forward), and prioritizes attacking enemies with the lowest Defense. As a matter of fact, they have among the highest Attack in the entire game! This is why I picked the Deadeye Sniper subclass over Besieger Sniper for Satan - even though Besieger Snipers also have a long range, they have a blind spot in the row right in front of them, have lower attack than Deadeye Snipers, and prioritize attacking enemies with the highest weight.

First skill: a generic Attack buff.

Second skill: summons his blood scythe to attack everything in his range, dealing AoE Physical damage and inflicting Fragile (increases damage taken by all affected enemies) for a brief period of time. He can store up to 3 charges of this skill starting Mastery level 1 (normally he can only store 2 charges max), but its cooldown is slightly longer than Leonhardt's second skill, which has a similar effect.

Skill 3: an ammo skill that turns his regular attacks into AoE attacks. Increases his attack wind-up time, gives him a sizeable Attack buff, and inflicts Fragile on all affected enemies for a brief period of time. Because it's an ammo skill, this skill will continue until either he runs out of ammo or the player manually deactivates this skill.

Talent 1: increases damage dealt if there is only one enemy in his attack range.

Talent 2: all of his attacks ignore a set amount of enemy defense, this amount increases after being deployed for a set period of time until a certain cap is reached.

Mammon

Quite possibly the only tank in the entire lineup of demon kings while still being able to deal some damage, which is why I think he could feasibly be an Arts Protector Defender. Bonus points for him also sharing the same voice actor as Czerny, an Arts Protector Defender!

Arts Protector Defenders deal Arts damage when you use their skills, and they tend to be on the more offensive side while still boasting respectable defenses and blocking ability. The other offense-focused Defender subclass, Duelist Defenders, may have higher attack, but they're only able to block one enemy at a time, unlike the 3-block of other Defender subclasses.

Skill 1: a generic attack buff.

Skill 2: an attack speed buff and minor attack buff, coupled with the ability to attack all blocked enemies and lifesteal (heals a small percentage of damage dealt).

Skill 3: increases his range to attack the 8 tiles around him and summons his golden fists to attack an enemy at a time, dealing AoE damage where the target is and providing a small percentage chance to briefly stun all affected enemies while slowing down their movement speed for a brief period of time.

Talent 1: increases his max HP and defense.

Talent 2: upon skill use, grants him a shield based on a percentage of his max HP, this shield will decay over time.

Leviathan

Now, Leviathan shares the same voice actor as Shalem, another Arts Protector Defender. But Leviathan wouldn't be a Defender, I feel. Instead, I'd like to lean into his 'summoner of Eldritch beings' side a little bit more and have him be a Summoner Supporter.

Summoner Supporters deal Arts damage and are able to deploy their own summons, each with their own behaviors and stats. The summons' passive effects and behavior depends on the Summoner's set skill. Leviathan's summons would all have 1-block by default. These summons would be his Eldritch beings, but I'd like to think he'd have a particular focus on his tentacle monsters. A little bit like Deepcolor, a Summoner Supporter whose summons are tentacles, with her being of the fish race (Aegirs).

Skill 1: summons can be deployed on melee tiles and deals single-target physical damage. When Leviathan uses his skill, he and his summons gain a generic attack speed buff.

Skill 2: summons can be deployed on ranged tiles and deals single-target Arts damage. When Leviathan uses his skill, he and his summons gain Invisibility (prevents them from being targeted by all attacks until they are revealed, either by invisibility-revealing enemy skills or being blocked) and a significant attack buff, but slightly increases their attack wind-up time.

Skill 3: summons can be deployed on melee tiles and deals single-target physical damage. When Leviathan uses his skill, he and his summons gain both an attack speed and attack buff. His summons also gain +1 block count and attacks all blocked enemies.

Talent 1: Leviathan can have up to 5 summons at a time (can only deploy 3). These summons have different stats and skills based on Leviathan's equipped skill.

Talent 2: Leviathan and his summons have a minor HP regen by default, based on a percentage of their attack.

Beelzebub

I considered Instructor Guards for Beelzebub because of their tendency to have whip or whip-like weapons (some notable exceptions being Swire with a mace and Rainbow Six Siege's collaboration Operator Doc with a gun). But Instructor Guards are typically more support-oriented, which I feel kinda goes against Beelzebub's general personality, so...I decided on making him a Lord Guard.

Lord Guards have a larger range than even Instructor Guards and boast the ability to launch ranged attacks within their extended range, but these ranged attacks have lower attack power compared to their regular attacks. They deal single-target physical damage.

Skill 1: a generic attack buff.

Skill 2: drops light arrows at several spots within his attack range, prioritizing those closest to him. These arrows deal a single instance of AoE physical damage and inflicts all enemies hit with a damage over time debuff. Normally 2 spots are selected, increased to 3 spots at Mastery level 1.

Skill 3: changes his damage type to Arts, increases his range, allows him to target an additional two enemies with each attack, and gives himself an attack buff. Enemies hit by his attack suffers a damage over time debuff for a short period of time.

Talent 1: gains increased attack when no allies are in his immediate vicinity (the 8 tiles surrounding him).

Talent 2: his attacks have a small percentage chance to 'crit' and deal increased damage, this percentage chance increases as long as he hasn't dealt a crit damage instance, resetting after each crit.

Lucifer

I feel like this is the most no-brainer choice. In Arknights, there is only one subclass of Medics that have the ability to damage enemies, which is the Incantation Medic. Medics in Arknights typically don't do any damage apart from these Incantation Medics and two Single-Target Medic exceptions in Kal'tsit (has the Mon3tr summon, a DPS unit which is what she's mostly used for) and Folinic (only deals damage on her second skill).

Incantation Medics are unable to directly heal their allies, unlike all other Medics. Instead, they attack enemies that enter their range with single-target Arts damage, and subsequently heal an ally within their attack range with the lowest amount of HP based on the total damage they dealt onto the enemy.

Skill 1: increases attack speed and heal amount per attack.

Skill 2: heals everyone in his range after each attack, and gains an attack buff.

Skill 3: increases his attack and attack speed, attacks deal some splash damage on surrounding enemies. When no healing is needed, damage dealt is instead converted to a shield buff on a friendly unit, prioritizing an ally in his range currently being targeted by an enemy. Otherwise, default to the last-deployed Operator.

Talent 1: gains increased attack speed when an ally within his range has his HP dropped below half.

Talent 2: his attacks have a chance to lower enemy attack and attack speed by a certain amount.

Belphegor

The fact that he deals AoE damage with his normal attacks makes it a pretty cut-and-dry choice between two different classes, in my opinion - those two classes being Artilleryman Snipers and Splash Casters. I personally am biased towards Splash Casters, purely because Belphegor doesn't seem to be wielding any guns, which are typical for Artillerymen Snipers.

Splash Casters have high attack and deal AoE Arts damage with every attack in their range. They also have a slower attacking speed compared to most of the other classes to balance out their high base offenses.

Skill 1: a generic attack buff.

Skill 2: slightly increases his attack and attack speed, extends his range, and inflicts Slow (lowers movement speed) for a period of time on all enemies hit by his attacks.

Skill 3: increases his attack and attack wind-up time. Now attacks all enemies in his range, has a small percentage chance to Bind (causes the enemy to stop moving and attacking) the enemy for a brief period of time, and the effect of his second Talent will be increased.

Talent 1: stores up power the longer he goes without landing an attack on an enemy, up to a certain cap. This bonus resets every time he hits an enemy. Think Platinum's passive.

Talent 2: all his attacks ignore a specific amount of enemy resistance (reduces Arts damage by a percentage based on its number).

Asmodeus

Another one where I had to debate between two different classes that do not perform normal attacks - none of them being related to Flagbearer Vanguards, the class with the character that shares the same voice actor as Asmodeus, Elysium (even though Flagbearer Vanguards typically stop attacking normally when their skill is active). The first class is the Liberator Guards, who are far more offensive in nature (notably, this is the subclass Mlynar belongs in). The second class is the Phalanx Casters, who are much more defensive in nature. After some deliberation, I decided to go with Phalanx Casters for Asmodeus.

Phalanx Casters normally do not attack, but have greatly increased defensive stats while their skill isn't active. While their skill is active, however, they'll deal Arts damage to all enemies in their range and lose their boost to defensive stats.

Also, an important note for Asmodeus specifically. I will NOT be limiting how many times Asmodeus can use his skill, because most of the 'limited use' skills in Arknights are due to lore reasons (Guard Amiya S2 being capped at a single use in each stage as an imperfect copy of Guard Ch'en's S3, a good chunk of the Rainbow Six Siege collaboration Operators' skills having a per-deployment limit because of Rainbow Six Siege's mechanics).

Skill 1: retains a portion of his increased defense, gains an attack buff.

Skill 2: gains Invisibility, a sizeable HP regen, and both an attack and attack speed buff. Can manually deactivate this skill, reverting back to his state before using the skill.

Skill 3: increases his range and attack. Attacks will 'mark' the hit enemy and have a percentage chance to inflict Fear (enemies will scatter around and cannot be blocked). When his skill ends, every enemy marked is hit with a strong Arts damage instance. Can manually deactivate this skill, ending it instantly and reverting his state change to one before using his skill.

Talent 1: has an innate Sanctuary (cuts damage taken by a certain percentage amount), which increases the more HP he loses (up to a cap at 80% HP lost).

Talent 2: after being deployed for a period of time, gains Taunt (becomes a target priority for enemies). Reflects a portion of damage taken back at the enemy based on a percentage of his attack as Arts damage.

[blood-and-wine-ao3]

Chapter 4 link!

TW: MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH, SUFFOCATION/CHOKING

chapter text below the cut

Days passed, and Tommy returned to work to provide for the two while Wilbur rested his wounds and desperately tried to work out a way to communicate with Clementine to no avail.

Tommy was worried, though.

Every day before work, Tommy would make Wilbur both lunch and dinner, and every day after work, he'd end up eating the dinner himself and tubbing the lunch for work tomorrow.

To Tommy's knowledge, it had been 5 days, and Wilbur hadn't eaten a thing.

He was sleeping less and less, too.

The one thing he did was drink water.

So much water.

The curtains were almost constantly drawn now, and the taller was looking paler by the day.

This wasn't good.

Reluctantly, Tommy punched his best friend's number into his phone on his way home from work.

"Tubbo?"

"Sup, bossman?"

"Y'know how your work gives you.... unique access to information on certain things?"

"Fucking hell man, you haven't been attacked have you-"

"No, no- No. I just- not on the phone, okay? I need a favour."

"You're bloody lucky I'm not on patrol today. Be at the Central Library in 20."

"Alright."

With a heavy heart full of dread, Tommy spun on his heel and texted Wilbur.

BigWiblur

GremlinT: im gonna be a bit late home

BigWiblur: Why

GremlinT: doing some research

BigWiblur: I don't like what that's implying Toms

GremlinT: i'll explain when im home ok

BigWiblur: Alright, stay safe

GremlinT: i will

He fucking hated lying to his brother.

--

20 minutes later, Tommy sat on the steps of Manberg Central Library and Archive on the border of a breakdown.

He placed his head on his knees, trying to breathe steady, but all of the what-ifs were tumbling in his head like a golf ball in a washing machine - one wrong bounce and the glass breaks, making the kitchen floor slippery and his mind equally hazardous.

Tommy was scared.

Tommy was scared and stressed and shaken and what if Wilbur was-

No.

He tried to think of other things, but all roads led to Wilbur - just Wilbur, and the danger he was in.

Just Wilbur, his brother Wilbur, injured Wilbur, fragile Wilbur, crying Wilbur, Wilbur.

His breathing went ragged and his tears threatened to leave their posts at the corners of his eyes, blurring his vision and stinging his heart.

He'd never forget the tension in "I'll explain when I'm home, okay?"

He'd never forget the fear in "I'm so sorry,"

He'd never forget the pain in his brother's injured cries, or the agony in his midnight crying that he thought nobody heard, or the shaking in his tone when he told Tommy to stay safe every day before work.

They were tattooed into Tommy's mind, just as permanent as the art on his clients - only far more painful.

Wilbur had to be fine. He had to.

---

When Tubbo arrived at the Manberg Central Library with a Ranboo in tow, he didn't know what to expect.

What he definitely didn't anticipate was his best friend sobbing and shaking on the steps.

"Ran, stay here," Tubbo warned, an unspoken or else in his tone. "I've got Toms."

Tubbo took careful steps towards the sobbing boy on the stone steps, his eyebrows furrowed in worry.

"Tom?"

Tommy sobbed harder.

Tubbo opted to sit next to his friend, tentatively reaching a hand out.

"Tom, is it okay if I put my arm around you?"

"Please,"

Broken and shaking, that was his response, and Tubbo gently moved closer, pulling his friend onto his shoulder with care.

"Tell me what's up, mate,"

"I just- Gods- I'm so fucking scared for him, Tubs-"

"Scared for who?" Tubbo asked, rubbing his friend's back gently.

"Wil, he's-" Tommy choked out another sob. "He was on his way home from work 5 days ago, and-"

"Is this what the favour was about, Tom? Did Wil get attacked?"

A sob was all he needed to know he was right, and a rock dropped into his gut.

"Gods, Tom, I'm sorry," Tubbo hugged Tommy closer, and Tommy sobbed harder. "I promise I'll do everything I can for you, alright?"

"Are you sure, Tubs- I mean- you'd- your job- the-"

"Yes. Fuck my job, I owe you my life, and if I can pay that back in any way even a bit I'll do anything." Tubbo absently brought a hand to the left side of his face, across which was plastered peeling scars and tender skin. "I mean that, Toms."

The sobs had quieted to sniffles, but Tommy's breathing was still ragged - if he wasn't careful, this would go from a breakdown to a panic attack.

"C'mon bossman, breathe with me, yeah?" Tubbo ventured, exaggerating his breathing for Tommy to follow.

It was broken at first, but Tommy copied his breaths, and eventually, the tears stopped falling, his shoulders stopped shaking, and Tommy sat there in his best friend's arms, trying to still the malevolent woodworms in his bones.

"I'll tell you what I know about the signs, okay?"

"Mhm,"

"Did Wil have any blood around his mouth when he got home?"

Tommy nodded.

"Was it darker than normal blood?"

Another nod.

"Was he wounded at the attack?"

"Stab to the shoulder."

"How's the healing going?"

"Worryingly fast."

Tubbo sucked in a breath.

"How's he been eating?"

Tommy shook his head.

"Water intake?"

"Very high."

"Sleep?"

"Less and less."

"Light tolerance?"

"Not at all, he got a sunburn from having the curtains open for an hour-"

Tubbo sighed. "It's not looking good for Wilbur, Toms-"

"I know," Tommy's voice shook, and his breathing hitched. "I know, Tubs. I just- I want to help him the best I can."

"Okay. Is he paler than usual?"

"Mhm,"

"Fucking hell, bossman. I'm- this- he's-"

"Screwed?"

"....Yeah, Tom. Yeah."

Tommy let out a choked cry.

"It's alright, we'll figure something out, okay? I'm not gonna let you or Wil come to any kind of harm. Not after what's happened."

Tommy nodded. "I- Tubs... Thanks, man."

"Of course, Toms. You're my best friend, I'd do anything for you."

They sat like that on the steps for what could have been minutes or hours, but when Tubbo stood up and asked Tommy if he was okay to stand up and for Tubbo to take him somewhere, Tommy agreed. When Tubbo looked around Ranboo was gone, and there was a message on his phone.

the beloved/qpr

the beloved/qpr: i vwooped away after you sat down

the beloved/qpr: i didn't want to intrude or anything

the beloved/qpr: sorry for not telling you

Tubberware: it's okay

Tubberware: can you take us to the night market? it should be just opening about now

the beloved/qpr: of course

With a signature vwoop and a void ripping into reality behind them, Ranboo appeared. They stood, insanely tall, their work uniform ill-fitting their lanky frame. Red and green eyes darted around until they found the duo, and then turned to the void and squeezed it shut like a rip in a shirt.

"Night market?" Ran confirmed.

"Mhm," Tubbo replied.

Ranboo karate chopped the air, and with another vwoop the void opened again. They curtseyed and stepped aside to let Tubbo and Tommy through.

Tubbo squeezed Tommy's hand and stepped through, followed by Ranboo who made the stride with a swish of their two-toned tail.

Tommy didn't know why, but he couldn't move.

Was it safe? Would Ranboo and Tubbo be on the other side? Would he make it out the other side? What if-

"Big Toms? You coming?" Tubbo poked his head back through the portal.

"I'm- fucking scared of it," Tommy admitted.

Tubbo stepped back through, offering a hand for Tommy to take.

"I promise you it's fine. Don't let go of my hand, and you'll be okay."

Tommy nodded and took Tubbo's hand - and this time when the shorter walked through the void, the taller shoved his thoughts aside and followed.

It was strange, like passing through a wall of freezing smoke, but then it was over, and Tommy was standing with Tubbo and Ranboo in the night market.

"Gods, man. You look petrified." Ranboo quipped.

"No shit, man, your void ass thing is fucking scary!" Tommy bit back, letting go of Tubbo.

"It's not scary, you're just-"

"Right!" Tubbo interrupted. "We have some shopping to do."

"Tubbs, mate, I love you, but there's an active fucking crisis and you're taking me shopping?" Tommy ventured.

"Yeah. There's a reason we're in the night market, Toms." Tubbo replied, his voice dropping to a whisper. "We're about to break some fucking laws."

Tommy blanched. "But- they're like- laws! You aren't meant to break those!" he whisper-yelled.

"Do you want to help Wilbur or not?" Tubbo hissed back, wincing as soon as he said it. "Fuck. Sorry. That wasn't- fuck."

"It's fine. We're both stressed as fuck. You didn't mean it." Tommy chose to ignore the rock in his gut at Tubbo's comment.

"Yeah." Tubbo agreed, offering his hand again. Tommy took it.

Tubbo lead them to a stall at the edge of the market, slightly set back from its row, staffed by a robed man and filled with jewellery.

"Tubbs, this doesn't- I'm-"

"Trust me."

And he did.

"Ah, Underscore! Your vows, as usual, are held in our quills." The robed man flipped his hood down, revealing a near-bald man with one blue and one red eye, and a strange headset was arranged on his head.

"Manifold. Your quills are held secure by our vows." Tubbo nodded, letting go of Tommy and gesturing strangely at the man.

"I know Beloved, but what's with the other guy?" Manifold asked, and Tommy felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

"Spectre's an associate of mine," Tubbo replied, and Tommy fought the urge to scoff. "He's in need of information."

"Ah. Beetroot prices? I can get some great fresh stock, by the way- Or is it where to find an airport's rival? How to hide an ugly vegetable in your garden?-"

"How to care for a hatchling cardinal." Tubbo cut across.

"Quite the dealing, for someone so new to the roost?" Tubbo nodded, and Manifold's face fell. "Are you sure-"

"Yes."

"Spectre. Here. Now." Manifold hissed, and Tommy flinched, looking to Tubbo. He nodded. Tommy walked over, fidgety and anxious.

"You're going to take this flash drive. You're going to plug it in to your computer. You're going to memorise it, and then you're going to delete the file completely and burn the USB. Got it?" Manifold instructed, passing a small object to Tommy.

"Yep. plug it in, memorise it, burn the evidence." Tommy muttered, pocketing the drive.

"Perfect." Manifold clapped. "Underscore, I'm expecting payment for this-"

"Next moonrise, my debts erased. I assure it." Tubbo glared. "Your quills are held secure by our vows."

"I'll be here," Manifold replied. "Your vows are held in our quills."

They both repeated the gesture, and Tubbo grabbed Tommy's wrist and spun on his heel.

"Was- was that legal?" Tommy stuttered.

"Gods no," Tubbo replied. "You ever heard of the Tesseract?"

"Tell me I did not just fucking interact with the fucking Tesseract you fucking prick or I'll fucking lamp you-"

"Yep," Tubbo confirmed. "You did."

"What the fuck?! They're fucking known criminals Tubbo what the fuck have you got me into?!" Tommy tried to free his wrist from Tubbo's grip.

"Keep your fucking voice down," Tubbo hissed. "And I'm sorry to say it, but as soon as Wil got attacked you were in all of this. Anyone who wants to keep a vampire alive is immediately a criminal, or did you forget that? I haven't got you into shit. I'm helping you sort arrangements so you don't both end up arrested or dead. I'm using every contact I have and putting my entire fucking life on the line for you, so please stop being such a bitch."

"Fucking hell man, I'm sorry." Tommy yanked his wrist away from Tubbo, and they walked. Quickly, and in silence.

Aeons passed in seconds, time slowed down with the thick honey of a conversation soured. Tension crackled in the air like static.

"Listen, you both messed up-" Ranboo started.

"I-"

"Tubbo." they continued. "On one hand, Tommy had no idea what he was signing up for and he just wants his brother to be okay. On the other, Tubbo's risking literally everything. Hell, I should be worried here. I'm complicit in this too, and I barely know who Tommy even is. All I know is that something happened and now Tubbo has this debt, and I'm getting caught in it too. But I digress. Tommy, you came across as ungrateful, although you're probably just terrified. Tubbo, you were way too harsh, although you're all too aware of the risks involved in this. You both messed up. I need you both to acknowledge that for me, alright?"

"Sorry for losing my shit. You know I'm just worried for Wil." Tommy apologised.

"Fuck are you apologising for? I didn't tell you we'd be talking to the fucking Tesseract. You're fresh off a fucking breakdown. I snapped at you for no reason." Tubbo twitched his wings.

"Dude, you're risking literally everything for a debt you paid years ago. I fucked up too."

"We both fucked up," Tubbo conceded. "Am I alright to put my arm around you?"

"'Course," Tommy grinned.

Tommy's phone buzzed, and as Tubbo put his arm around the blonde he checked his notifications.

BigWiblur - 18:36

toms it's been an hour where are you

BigWiblur - 18:43

tommy where are you please answer

BigWiblur - 18:54

tommy please

BigWiblur - 19:02

Tommy please message me I'm worried

"Shit," Tommy leaped out of his skin, opening his messages.

BigWiblur

GremlinT: yep i'm fine

GremlinT: so so sorry wil i should have checkd mt phone im so sosorry

GremlinT: wil are you okay?

GremlinT: i'm so sorry for stressing you

GremlinT: i'm with tubbo and ranboo, i'm perfectly safe i promise

GremlinT sent an attachment.

"Did you just take a picture of me and you?" Tubbo asked.

"Yeah, Wil's panicking because I'm out late, when that happens he needs a picture of me so he knows I'm safe."

"Oh."

BigWiblur: i'm so so glad you're okay

BigWiblur: love you toms but i swear to fucking god tell me next time

BigWiblur: i can barely fucking breathe

"Ranboo?"

"Mmm?"

"Would you be willing to make an emergency detour to my apartment so I can hug my brother and then we can go back out?"

"Yeah, I don't know where that is so I'll have to read you though."

"Read me?"

"You think of a location. I touch you. I can make a portal to that location."

"OH. Alright."

Ranboo grabbed both of Tommy's hands and Tubbo let go, and Tommy closed his eyes and thought of the apartment.

He felt a weird chill, as if someone with really cold hands was holding his brain.

"You gotta let me in, bud," Ranboo laughed. "Accept the chill,"

Tommy did.

"You don't know the way from here, do you?" Ranboo asked.

"Nope,"

"Do you know the way from the library?"

"Mhm,"

"Can you think of the way there?"

Tommy thought of the way there.

Vwoop

"Done,"

Tommy opened his eyes, and there was a void-portal in front of him.

"How do we know it actually leads to my apartment?" Tommy asked.

"We don't," Ranboo answered. "I read you, so basically we just gotta go in and hope we don't cause a ruckus with your neighbours."

"Riiiight." Tommy grimaced.

Tommy poked his head through, and when he was greeted by the familiar sight of the battered leather sofa, he stepped through-

Wilbur was breathing shallowly yet loudly, gasping for air, curled up in Tommy's armchair.

"Wil?" Tommy murmured gently. "Wil, I'm here. I got Ranboo to port me."

Wilbur didn't look up, kept gasping, hands in his hair.

"Wilbur?"

"Can't- breathe," Wilbur gasped.

Tommy crossed the room in a second, wrapping his brother in his arms.

Wilbur let go of his hair and clutched onto Tommy's jacket, holding onto his brother for dear life.

"I'm so sorry," Tommy murmured. "I'm so fucking sorry,"

"Not- your fault," he wheezed. "Was- struggling before,"

Tommy's blood ran cold.

"Wilbur, what do you mean?"

"Couldn't, breathe- For a while," Wilbur choked. "Since- the night, after the attack,"

"Wilbur, do you mean to tell me you've been having breathing problems for 4 days straight and you didn't say?"

"Yes," he panted. "Didn't want- you worrying,"

"Fucking hell,"

"Sorr-"

"Don't you fucking dare," Tommy cut across. "Don't talk. Focus on fucking breathing."

Wilbur nodded, tears falling down his cheeks.

Tommy breathed slowly and deeply, trying to convince Wilbur to copy, but he stayed shallowly gasping.

Wilbur tried to stand and collapsed into Tommy, who sunk to the ground and held his brother in his arms.

His heart dropped when he realised Wilbur's breathing was getting worse.

"Wil, try and breathe with me, okay?" Tommy's voice shook as he continued his deep breaths.

"Can't," Wilbur rasped. "This is- the only way, I can, breathe."

Tommy felt tears prick his eyes and spill down his face as he held Wilbur. A hand went through his hair, and the other just held him close. Wilbur's breathing was quieter, shallower, more laboured.

"Wil, you're gonna be okay," Tommy's voice cracked as he said it.

Wilbur nodded weakly.

"You'll be okay. We'll be okay." Tommy held him a bit closer, as Wilbur's breathing grew a bit fainter.

"Tom," Wilbur whispered.

"Yeah?" Tommy's breathing sped up, growing frenzied as he started to panic.

"I love you."

Tommy let out a sob. "I love you too,"

They sat on the ground, Wilbur letting his wings form as they should and wrapping them around Tommy, Tommy holding onto Wilbur gently, both of them crying, neither of them saying a word. Tommy shook, Wilbur stuttered, Tommy sobbed, Wilbur gasped, Tommy wept, Wilbur wheezed.

And then there was nothing.

[aimai-ronri]

Reworking the Fuzzy Gaming Quest

This is the first time I've ever blogged publicly about something like this. I usually talk to friends about it, but I just as often don't say anything, because when I talk about video-games I get hyperfocused and sometimes the conversation takes a long time, so I often feel like it's a bit rude to get people wrapped up in it. But I remembered I have a tumblr now and people actually blog on here sometimes, so: prepare to suffer.

To set up why I'm so weird about games allow me to explain: first of all, I'm obviously not neurotypical in some way I don't know but one day would like to figure out. SECOND, I've been playing video-games literally since I can remember. My first real memories of cognition are watching my dad put cartridges in the NES, and climbing on the bed to put our Thai bootleg cart in there myself so I could play weird sprite hacks of Super Mario Bros. So anyway, gaming has factored heavily in my life since the beginning.

Anyway long story short, this has led to, for a long time, me wanting to leave some kind of legacy behind me in the form of a trail of beaten-up old video-games. Often this takes the form of just wanting to curate out a collection (physical or unholy--I mean digital) that I can leave behind in some state of completion, but on top of that it comes as me wanting to sit down and truly spend time with the games that are most important to my history over the course of my lifetime.

This has led to me making innumerable 'systems' for approaching the task of having a humongous backlog of video-games (some might say longer than is completable than anyone in a life time, and I recognize this) and often these systems get replaced or revised for being inadequate in some way. The latest no-thought system on my part was the Fuzzy Gaming Quest, in which the goal was basically to play through games starting from the beginning of time and blasting through at hyper-speed, with the intention of covering as much ground in order to induce familiarity as fast as possible with arcade games from an era I've rarely played (but longed for in my old man's soul).

This was working but I quickly ran into a snag (after recording about 250 videos 😥): I wasn't spending as much time with individual games as I'd like by any means. On one hand, I was backlogging games I was enjoying just to get them out of the way and continue the progress. On the other, sometimes I wasn't sure how much time you'd even spend with a game to consider yourself familiarized enough to rank it in some way, without necessarily having to beat everything (who has the time?). Not to mention arcade games that have no viable ending for the regular player (Pac-Man, Galaga, etc).

So anyway all this is leading up to me explaining the next iteration of the Fuzzy Gaming Quest. Here's a picture!

What you're looking at is essentially a 7 day scoreboard for various games that I selected out as important during my previous pass through the 70s and most of the 80s. These are all games I wanted to play more of or possibly log in a list.

7 days is my naive answer to how long I think would be good to spend on a game, in order to get competent enough at it to get a decent score and/or feel you've experienced your average game enough to go ahead and put it somewhere in a list. It might seem like overkill for a simple arcade game (though I'd argue you need to play repeatedly and give your brain time to absorb it to get the true experience), and it may seem like underkill for an RPG (though I'd argue that most RPGs probably aren't changing much more if you've been playing for 7 days already, but this doesn't forbid from continuing to play if I choose to), but this is my naive and probably flawed answer, anyway.

This is meant to serve the purpose of: - Progressing reasonably fast (notice this is a list of basically banger games everyone has heard of, I will probably only include a few games here or there that are lesser known that I just happen to like--I'll also be avoiding some consoles intentionally that I don't particularly like (like the Odyssey 2, sorry, it's my list though--convince me otherwise if you like)) - Filtering into some kind of "best of" list (if I don't even want to play it for 7 days (in brief sessions), it must not be very good after all and doesn't deserve to be on any best of list I would leave behind me--games that I do get through the 7 days I should understand enough to rank competently enough to make myself happy) - Giving me an excuse to spend more time on the games that really matter to me, today, in case I get hit by a bus tomorrow - Giving me a target for when I'm able to comfortably say I've experienced a game enough and don't need to feel bad about moving on if I want to but still haven't "beat it," and also leaving room for playing more if I like (I can sort it, take it off the board, but finish it anyway on the DL) (Also, if I do beat it, I can stop there with the board) - Satisfying whatever kind of ADHD thing I have going on by allowing me to keep a variety of games on rotation for some amount of time and not just getting stuck behind one game at a time - Breaking game experiences down over multiple days to allow a longer time to think about them and grow accustomed to them, also to allow me to fit them into my busy schedule by playing Space Invaders on the toilet for ~10 minutes - To leave behind a journal of high scores or information about how far I got in various games as I plod on

So, you may (rightly) ask: What's the point of all this? Why can't I just play games that I like and call it a day?

Well my first answer would be, "shut up I know you're right I just can't, my brain is broken," but my second answer, the one I would say aloud, might be that I really have always wanted to take a targeted approach to going through all of game history and that's what this is in service of.

I have no false expectations about getting all the way through game history up to now in one lifetime, at least not without sacrificing a lot of games in the process. I definitely won't ever get to the point where I'm always keeping up with contemporary games. It's lucky for me that I mostly fell out of favor with games around 2011 for various reasons, but really it had been a steady decline of interest since about 2005 or so. I have a shorter-hand target, but if I were to ever reach it, I'd like to keep going on, even if it means playing PS4 games in 2061 when I'm almost as old as my dad is now.

Anyway, your second question (and wow, if you made it this far) might be: "so what does this mean for your tumblr, which I care about intimately after seeing 20 posts, and was gutted when you temporarily took a break, and have been looking for meaning in my life ever since?"

Well, true believer, if you want I might post my 7 day high-score for various arcade games or something along with some pictures or videos of high points of the game (when I get to games complicated enough to have cool art). I haven't decided yet. I'm open to suggestions! I'd love to see people try to (and succeed!) at beating my scores (I'd feel like I influenced someone into maybe playing some old, great game they wouldn't have before deciding to just then).

If nothing else I hope it was interesting to see my thought process about this stuff.

If that's not true, I hope you were entertained by a write up of someone's journey ever deeper into video-game delirium.

And yes, I will get frustrated with the system and change it again in approximately a month.

[fantasykidofkpop]

My Super Girlfriend pt 1

Nct Taeil x reader (ft. Johnny)

Nerd! Artist!Taeil x Super!reader

Superhero au Strong Woman Do Bongsoon au

Description: Every superhero saves the day and rescues a girl. But what if a girl with super inhuman abilities, saves the day and rescues her nerdy lover.

Quote: With great power, comes great responsibility

Taeil asks himself everyday whenever he comes home from his date

"How did I, a low life, an outcast, a nerd, get the most adorable and the most beautiful girl in all of Seoul."

Taeil and Y/N were together ever since senior year of High School

You been together for 3 years and Taeil could have been any happier with his lovely girl

But was he didn't know.... that his girlfriend has a secret

3 years ago, senior year, in high school

Taeil was always getting picked on and was always the bully's target

Especially, for Johnny Seo, the school's heartthrob, captain of the basket ball team

Johnny and some of his team members (Taeyong, Jaehyun and Ten) would always pick on Taeil and sometimes beat the crap out of him if he didn't or refuses to do their assignments

Taeil sometimes come home with bruises, a black eye and a busted lip

Whenever his parents ask about his wounds, he would lie by saying

"Oh, I bumped into a lamp post" "I tripped on the side walk" etc

Taeil knew if he told his parents, they would have move and transfer him to a different school

He wanted to stay, only to study Art

Sometimes, at night, he lays on his bed, stares at the ceiling, and wishes for tomorrow to be better day

"Please, let tomorrow be a brand new day"

The moment he fell into deep slumber

His wish came true

The next day, this morning was the same

Taeil walked to his locker, when he opened it, fake spiders came out of his locker

Even though they're fake, but he has a phobia of spiders

Taeil shrieks

Loud laughter came from behind

Johnny and friends were laughing really hard

Everyone laughed with them

"Same old scared little Taeil" Johnny says

"Oh wait, he's still little!" Ten shouts

Everyone laughs while Taeil looks at his feet in embarrasment

"See you later Short Stack!" Johnny yells and high fives his friends and leaves

I knew it, he thought

"Hey bro, you okay?" His bestfriend Mark asks while helping him

Him and Mark have been best friends since the were in middle school

"Yeah, I'm fine" he says

They both walk to their first period class

"Hey I heard there is a new student coming to our school" Mark points out

"Oh really?" Taeil asks

"Yeah, they say the new student is a girl, but I havent seen her yet"

"Oh okay" he says a little nervously

"I hope she'll treat you right" Mark reasures

They both entered the class and sat down in their assigned seats

While everyone was waiting for the teacher, Taeil kept thinking about what the new student would be like

His thoughts were interrupted by the teacher mr. Choi (SuJu Choi Siwon)

"Good morning class, before we begin our lesson, we have a new student joining us today, she new around her, make her feel welcome." He say while pointing at all of us

Mr.Choi gestures the new student to come in

The moment she walked in, Taeil's world stopped

His eyes widen and mouth parted in awe

Everything was in slow motion

Your hair flow a little behind and the sun reflected your soft hair

There stood before him, was a smiling beauty

You looked ethereal to him, like aphrodite the goddess of love and beauty

Taeil's heart beated fast like it was going to burst out of his chest by now

Mr.Choi gestures you to introduce herself

"Annyonghasaeyo, my name is Dong Y/n, im from Shanghai, China, please take care of me." You smile brightly showing your pearly whites

Your voice, was so beautiful, sounded like an angel's voice and it felt smooth like whipped cream

All of the guys were swoon by your smile

While some of the girls were jealous of your beauty and your figure

Taeil was lost in his thoughts that he didn't noticed that he called by the teacher

He got startled by his yell

"I said, Taeil raise your hand" Mr.Choi says sternly

He shakely raise his hand

When your meet his, you gave him another beautiful smile

His heart was beating at a fast rate when you came towards him

When you sat down next to him, Taeil was freaking out on the inside

"Hello, Taeil" you smiled at him and took your hand for him to shake

He froze again and came back to reality when you greeted him

"H-h-hi" he says while timidly taking his hand out to shake your hand

"H-how do you know my name?" He says shyly and awkwardly

His heart flutterd when he heard your giggle

"The teacher called on you, silly" you said while giggling

His cheeks started to heat up and looked away in embarassment

Through out the class period, Taeil could hardly pay attention to the lesson

He couldn't help but stare at your face

You have flawless skin, cute button nose, soft rosy cheeks, pink plump lips

And MOST of all, your big bright blue eyes

Honestly for Taeil, he's never seen anyone with bright blue eyes before

Blue is actually his favorite color

He uses blue colors for when he's painting the ocean or a lake

Yours eyes were like the color of the ocean

They reminded him of his paintings of the ocean

He was so lost in your beauty, that the bell rang, ending first period

"Dude, class ended, didn't you hear the bell?" Mark calls out

Taeil came back to reality "h-huh what?"

"Are you okay, your face is really red and are you sweating?" Mark asks

He checks himself, and starts feeling embarased

"It's just so hot in this room" he lies

"You sure it was from Y/N?" Mark says with a smirk

"I don't know what you mean, lets go!" He says quickly

And speed walks out of the classroom

2nd period, Taeil's scariest period

PE

Exercising is not the problem

His worst nightmare has the same class with him

JOHNNY SUH

Its scary when Mark doesn't have 2nd period with Taeil

Everyone was already dressed in their gym wear and so is Taeil

While everyone was stretching and waiting for the teacher

The girl's dressing room door opens

Taeil looks up and his eyes widens and his jaw drops in awe

You looked so stunning in your black sports bra and sweats

You such an amazing hourglass body

All of the boys were drooling, especially Johnny and his friends

Taeil couldn't look away, its like he was hypnotized by your body

When your eyes meet his, you smiled sweetly and started walking towards him

The way your ponytail bounced

The way your hips swayed

It was driving him crazy

Taeil suddenly felt himself being pushed to the ground

"Out of my way!" Johnny yells

Yup, he pushed him 😑

"Hey, beautiful, we haven't been properly introduced, the names Johnny" he says with a flirty smile and kisses your hand

Taeil felt anger and jealousy rushing through his body

"Nice to meet you too, Johnny" you said in a gentle voice ignoring his flirting

"What should I call you, Im guessing your name is gorgeous goddess?" He flirts again

"Thanks for the compliment, the names Y/N Dong Y/N"

"Wait, Dong Y/N, like as in, Dong Sicheng?" Johnny asks in a surprised voice

"Yes, he's my little brother" you said with a small smile

Everyone especially Taeil were shocked

Nobody knew that Dong Sicheng

A.K.A. Winwin, Student Council President

Has an older sister

"Anyway, there are a bunch of nut jobs in this school, especially him" he points at Taeil

"But don't worry, I'll always be there to protect you, sweet heart" he winks

He looks down and waits for you to laugh at Johnny's insult

"I don't think so, he seems sweet" you said the honest truth

That made Taeil go red as a tomato

Jaehyun, Taeyong and Ten snickered

Johnny scoffs

"Yeah, right. Well anyway, beautiful, if you want or need after school physical education, come to me. I promise to keep that gorgeous body in shape" he says by using his hands to motion your body

"Ok, I'll think about it" you said with a gentle smile

Before Johnny could speak, PE teacher mr.Lee (Lee Dong-hae SuJu) came in and blew his whistle

"Alright everyone, today is Friday, I have a surprise in store for you guys" he smirks

Taeil was not liking this feeling

"Today, were doing, drum roll please" he points at Ten

Ten pats the bleacher to resemble a drum

"Wrestling!" He shouts

Everybody were shouting in excitement, especially Johnny and his friends

Taeil felt he's going to pee himself any second now

"Alright, who wants to go?" He's says in anticipation

"Me mr.Lee!" Johnny shouts

"Yes, my tall handsome star student, get up here!" He smiles

He runs up to the center onto the gymnastic matt

"Pick your opponent"

He playfully looks around and spots Taeil

Johnny evilly smirks and points at him

"Moon Taeil !"

Taeil was beyond mortified

Everyone ooohed and silently laughs, except you

He shakely stands up and walks to the center

"You can do this Taeil !" You shouted

Taeil felt his fear wash away from your cheers

Until

Whistle blows

Taeil gets punched in the stomach

"One point to Johnny!" Mr.Lee shouts

Everyone except you claps

"Round 2!"

Taeil tries to push Johnny down, but he wasn't strong enough

Johnny and the students started laughing at his lack of strength

You, on the other hand, were cheering for Taeil

"Come on Taeil, you can do it!"

Taeil was suddenly punched in the face and got kneed in the stomach

He fell to the ground, breathing heavily

"Winner! Johnny" mr.Lee shouts and raises Johnny's arm

Everyone claps and chants out Johnny's name

You ran to Taeil and helped him up

"Are you okay?" You asked softly

He looks up and sees your beautiful face

"Am I in Heaven?" He asks almost in a conscious state

"No, your on the floor, lets get you back on the bleachers, silly" you said while giggling

You helped him back on the bleachers

"Who wants to go up against, Johnny?" Mr.Lee asks in anticipation

Nobody answers until...

"I will !" You shouted and raised your hand

Everyone, including the coach, Johnny and Taeil gasped

"W-w-well a-are you sure?" Coach asks

You nodded while gently smiling

You walk up to the center and stood 2 feet in front of Johnny

Taeil was really worried, if you get hurt, it felt like it be his fault for putting yourself on his spot

"Ready!" Blows the whistle

"I'll take it easy on you, beautiful" he says with a flirty smile and winks

Before he finish his sentence

In a blink of an eye

You got him in a choke hold and took him down with a loud thud

Everyone was shooked, including Taeil and coach

"How did she do that!" He thought

"Uh-uh one point to Y/N" coach stutters

Before Taeil could process anything, he saw something really strange

Your eyes

They were blue earlier, but when you took down Johnny, your eye color turned RED

And he had no idea that a sweet and innocent girl like you

Be that strong to take down a 6 foot tall basket ball player

"Final round!" Blows whistle

Johnny strikes a punch

But, you dodged his punch and swiftly flipped over Johnny

Everyone's jaws dropped and eyes widened

Nobody has ever beaten Johnny at wrestling

Not even his team mates

Nobody, except Taeil, notice your eyes change back to their original color

"What is she?!" He screams internally

You looked at everyone with an innocent look

"Um, did I go too far?" You asked in a small gentle voice

Everyone jumps out of there seats and claps while cheering you

Taeil, couldn't process what just happened and just stared at you in amazement

Johnny, on the other hand, couldn't believe what just happened

He sits up looks at you in shock

A girl, a beautiful, innocent girl, just took down a 9 time basket ball champion

His teams mates helped him up

"Bro, that was INSANE!" Ten exclaims

"She must've worked a lot" Jaehyun guesses

"Yeah, but I gotta admit, that's MY kind of woman" Johnny looks at you with a smirk while wipping the sweat off him

You thanked everyone for giving you compliments, then coach blew his and told everyone sit back down

Everyone had 10 minutes left of class, so coach Lee let everyone have free time

Taeil calms himself down and drinks his bottle of water

"Taeil !" You called him

He looks up and sees you jogging up to him with a gentle smile

He was infactuated by you

They way your hair moves when you jog

Sweat dripping

Then his eyes accidentally when down your chest

The way your breast bounce lightly

To be honest, for Taeil, you breast were like the perfect size

Like they were sculpted, like the greek goddesses

He hasn't realize that you're in front of him and he's beet red

"Hey Taeil, are you alright ?" You asked worriedly

"I think I'm in love" he says faintly

"What?" You asked

He broke out of his thoughts, and looks at you and starts stuttering

"Oh uh, I mean that, I think I'm in love with your fighting techniques?" He lies

You giggled

"Thank you," you said with a smile

"How did you do that, no one has ever beaten Johnny at wrestling" he asks in astonishment

"Oh, my father taught me some of his greatest martial art skills" you said

"That's amazing, I'd like to meet him one day" he says in excitement

Then, you looked down in sadness

"Actually, my father passed away when I was 8" you said sadly

Taeil felt guilty for asking that question

"Don't be, its alright" you said gently

"Oh oka-" before he finishes his sentence

How did you know he was feeling guilty

"How did you know that I felt guilty?" He asks supiciously To be continued

[prettypinklass]

I might start posting oneshots on here, like this one. Maybe.

The Queen's Songstress, the Songstress's Queen

Author: Pink

Word Count: 2513

Warnings/Notes: Fluff, Petra Works too Hard, orphans, Dagda OC, implied/mentioned racism, implied homophobia

Prompt: Paired Endings (Intertwined Destinies event from the Fire Emblem Amino)

~♡~

When she had first returned to Brigid, she had acted as a translator for her friend, who despite pleading to join her, knew nothing of the language. 

Now, years later, Dorothea could speak the common language of Brigid as easily as she could Fodlan's. 

"It's because you're such a good teacher, Petra," she teased, after Petra had praised her skills. 

Despite her grandfather's approval, the people of Brigid had been skeptical of their marriage at first. Dorothea's Fodlanese heritage didn't help. Nonetheless, they didn't argue. Their new queen was happy, and that was what mattered.

Now, years later, the people praised them as one of the best pairs of rulers they had. 

Queen Petra worked tirelessly to improve their relationship with Fodlan after declaring independence. Her wife, the Lady Dorothea, used her connections with the Opera to help. It was hard work, but they succeeded eventually. 

Now, Petra lived her life working tirelessly to help her citizens. Everyday she could be found holding public hearings to address their problems, or in her room, signing paperwork, and on some occasions in a meeting, dealing with the other nobles. It was tiring work, but she would endure it for her kingdom.

Dorothea had built an Opera house in the capital city of Brigid, after extensively studying the nature of Brigid's fine arts and music. She ran the place on her own, wrote their plays, and held weekly singing practices that were open to all, where people could gather and and sing together. Her troupe became famous throughout not only Brigid, but Fodlan as well, eventually even receiving audiences from Dagda and Almyra. 

Today in particular had been a hard day. 

The queen had visitors not only from Fodlan, but from Almyra and Dagda as well. The meeting had been… tiring, to say the least. Seeing an old classmate again after so long on strictly professional terms had been… difficult, the man from Almyra was beefy, and loud, which was a stark contrast to the noble from Dadga, who was posh and professional.

Petra had collapsed into her desk chair after the meeting.

Dorothea had been laying on their bed, humming. Her day had been rough as well, having to deal not only with racist participants in the day's open singing practice, but also guide visitors from the foreign countries in the song. Though she had seen one familiar face, it had still been… difficult.

She jumped up when Petra entered though, before her face fell. The queen had sat down at her desk, and immediately reached for her paperwork. 

"Petra…" the singer stood up with a small sigh, walking over, "Come on, you need to get some rest." 

"I don't have time for rest," Petra replied, "I must get this work done…" 

"Love, you're exhausted…" Dorothea sighed, resting her hands on the queens shoulders and  beginning to rub slowly, "Why don't you take a break? Let me sing for you." 

She hesitated, "Are… you sure? I must get this paperwork done…" 

"You can do it later," the songstress insisted, "Take a break, love. You need one."

Petra frowned at her, shifting to face her wife. Dorothea smiled reassuringly at her, and smiled wider when the queen began to relax, "I have a day off tomorrow…"

"You can finish the paperwork first thing tomorrow, and then we can go out together."

It was quiet for a moment.

Petra sighed, and stood up as she gave in, "Okay… Will you sing for me, Thea?" 

"Of course," Dorothea smiled even brighter in response, and pulled her wife over to the bed. The two laid next to each other, as she hummed softly. 

"What song would you like me to sing?" 

"No preference." 

"Hmm… okay," Dorothea sat up, and began humming. The humming went on for a few moments, changing pitch and tune to match a song, and then…

"Reach for my hand," she began to sing softly, "I'll soar away. Into the dawn, oh, I wish I could stay." 

Petra rolled over and smiled at her. 

"In cherished halls, in peaceful days, I fear the edge of dawn… knowing time betrays." 

Her voice was soft, soothing, and before long… the queen had fallen asleep. 

And when she had finished the song, as she was never one to leave something half done, Dorothea fell asleep too.

~♡~

As promised, Petra finished her paperwork early, and Dorothea had dragged her off to see the town shortly afterward. 

People waved as they passed by, and the pair waved back happily. Brigid's capital really was a lively and friendly place.

Just after noon had come, Dorothea brought her wife to the opera house. There was a public singing session today, and even half an hour before it started, people were beginning to gather. 

A certain indigo haired woman was there already, looking around. Dorothea smiled. 

"Shamir!" 

Shamir looked up, and grinned, "Well well. We meet again, kid. Your Majesty," she bowed to Petra, "To what do I owe this pleasure?" 

Petra fumbled for words. She still wasn't the best at Fodlanese…

"This day- er, Today, is my free day. I am not having work to do." 

"Lucky you," Shamir replied, "It's good to see you both again." 

"Am I assuming you came with the Dagda noble?" Petra asked. 

"Fodlan actually," she shrugged, "Mercenary life gets me plenty of jobs. Just so happened I was in town, and the lord was looking for a suitable guard." 

"Interesting," the queen hummed. 

"Are you here for choir?" Dorothea asked, tilting her head to the side with a happy smile. 

"I guess so. Lord Aegir wanted to come and I'm kind of obligated to follow him everywhere unless he specifically says so," Shamir shrugged, "He's talking to some of the singers, along with that guy from Almyra. Nader or something." 

"You didn't tell me Ferdie was the visiting noble!" Dorothea turned to pout at Petra. 

"It never came up," Petra admitted, laughing a little.

"Anyway, I'm going to go find something to do… singing isn't my thing." 

"You joined yesterday," Dorothea blinked at Shamir.

"I was exploring town and got caught up in it somehow," Shamir sighed, "Lord Aegir's over there if you want to talk to him." 

"Alright then… bye!" The songstress waved. Petra waved as well. 

The pair turned, and walked over to the ginger haired noble. 

"Ferdie!" 

Ferdinand turned, and broke into a huge smile, "Dorothea! The ugly maiden!" 

Everyone paused to stare at him. 

Someone in the back began snickering. 

"Uhh…" 

"Ferdie," Dorothea frowned, "Um… Do you know what 'aklos' means Brigid?" 

"Why, I was told it meant lovely!" Ferdinand replied, smiling brightly, "Impressive, right?" 

Dorothea began giggling, as Petra sighed. 

"Ah, Ferdinand… The Brigidian word for 'lovely', is 'akLAS'. Aklos is our word for ugly." 

The noble blinked. 

His face turned pink. 

"B-by the goddess! Please, accept my sincerest apologies!" He bowed, "I have been tricked it seems…" 

"Don't worry about it," Dorothea laughed, "Are you here for choir?" 

"Why yes! I heard from Manuela that you run your own opera house here! She misses you by the way, and is hoping to one day collaborate with your opera." 

"Oh, I would love to! I'll have to send a letter to her!" Dorothea exclaimed happily, "Thank you Ferdie!" 

"But of course! It is my duty to assist!" 

One of the actresses, a young woman, called over, "Miss Dorothea! We're ready to begin!" 

"Oh! That's my cue," Dorothea smiled, and giggled slightly, "Have fun Love," she pecked Petra on the cheek, and waved at Ferdinand, before running up to join the singers at the podium. 

Choir was always a joy for Petra to attend. Not only did she get to hear her wife's beautiful voice, but the act made her feel… closer to others, not only to her Dorothea, but to her citizens as well. The same citizens loved it when she would join them as well. 

Ferdinand sang loudly, and he sounded well enough. Nader on the other hand, sounded like a dying bird. The look Dorothea gave him at the end of the first song would've scared the pants off of even the most fiercest soldier.

He ended up being asked to sing... quietly, so that the others could be heard over him.

Even Shamir participated, though at the request of Ferdinand. She seemed to enjoy herself though, if only for one song. 

It seemed like only a few minutes later when choir ended, though it had been at least an hour. 

"You were great Petra!" The songstress quickly began gushing, "Even better than before!"

"You're making me blush Thea," Petra laughed in embarrassment, "You sounded much better than I did." 

"Even so," she giggled, "Well, what would you like to do now?" 

"Why don't we visit the orphanage?" 

"Sounds like a wonderful idea," Dorothea replied, "Let's head there now, and then we can be home in time for dinner." 

"Right," the queen nodded, and after saying goodbye to Ferdinand and Shamir, they began walking to the orphanage.

~♡~

The orphanage was as lively as ever.

Though the place was small, and the only residents were a few children and their caretaker, it was always lively. The children were often running around and playing together, making noise and sometimes causing chaos. The 4 of them were quite the handful for their caretaker, but they managed. 

A jingle sounded as they entered. 

"Just a moment!" Came a call from the back. A few seconds later, the caretaker appeared, carrying a box. 

"Oh!" She gasped, "Your Majesty, Lady Dorothea! What a pleasant surprise!" 

"Hello Chey," Petra smiled, "We came to visit." 

"The children were just wondering when they would be able to see you again," Chey laughed, smiling, "Children! You have a visitor!" 

Light footsteps were heard immediately. The quick pitter patter of small feet echoed in the building, as a group came tumbling out of the bedrooms.

First came Fiona, a 7 year old. She was quickly followed by the 8 year old, Darrell, who stumbled and tripped onto her. Fiona squealed.

Lily came next, the oldest at age 11, "Hey! Be careful, I'm holding Harry!" 

Harry let out a "Bubba!" and burst into giggles. He was the youngest of the four, being just barely a year in age. Fiona and Darrell fumed at each other.

"Now now,' Chey frowned, walking over to them, "Don't get into a fight. Look who came to visit!" 

"Kween Petwa! Dorufea!' Harry babbled excitedly, "Petwa and Dorufea! Yay!" 

"Q-Queen Petra! Lady Dorothea!" Lily gasped, and did a quick bow still holding the toddler, "It's a pleasure to see you again!" 

"Petra! Dorothea! Hi!' Fiona brightened up quickly and waved. 

"Idiot, it's QUEEN Petra and LADY Dorothea! Don't forget your manners!" Darrell hissed at her. 

"What do titles matter?" She crossed her arms with a huff.

"A lot!" 

"How?" 

"Because-" 

"That's enough," Chey sighed, "No fighting. Apologize to Her Majesty and Lady Dorothea." 

The pair glared at each other. She nudged them.

Darrell was first. 

"I'm sorry Queen Petra, Lady Dorothea…" 

"Sorry…" Fiona mumbled quickly just after him. 

Harry babbled something that nobody understood. Dorothea laughed, and took him from Lily. He squealed happily, and pulled her hair. She winced, but laughed. 

"Your apology is accepted, little ones," Petra knelt down to smile at Fiona and Darrell, "It is a pleasure to see you again." 

The two smiled brightly at her in response. 

"What do you say?" Chey prompted. 

"Thank you Queen Petra!" The two chorused, before running off into the back playfully shoving each other. 

"Ah…" the caretaker watched them run off, "I'll have to scold them later… I'm sorry." 

"Don't worry about it," Dorothea laughed, "You seem to be handling them well." 

"Ah, well… I'm not quite sure how I ended up with four of them. I picked up Lily off the streets and since then… Well I haven't been able to say no to them like that," the caretaker laughed softly, "Will you be staying for a visit your Majesty? Lady Dorothea?" 

"Please?" Lily added with a smile. 

Harry babbled and giggled happily. 

"I'm sure we can stay for a little bit," Petra nodded. 

"Of course," Dorothea smiled brightly, "It would be a pleasure." 

Lily cheered, and Harry babbled. The royal pair followed her into the backroom with a laugh. 

~♡~

The meeting room was silent. 

Dorothea suppressed a sigh. Shamir glanced at her from across the room.

"...and that is why I believe we should cut off trade entirely. I don't mean to be accusing, but recent affairs have proven my suspicions." 

The noble from Dagda would not shut up. He kept going on and on about how Fodlan's recent battles proved them unstable, and their rocky relationship with surrounding areas didn't help. 

"Lord Hanth, please," Ferdinand sighed, "I can assure you with 100% positivity that Fodlan is unified in all ways. I ask that you please refrain from this incessant blabbering about us being unstable, when it is not backed up by factual evidence." 

Hanth scowled, "Of course you would say that, Lord Aegir. You're FROM Fodlan-"

Petra sighed, "Lord Hanth, with all due respect, I can fully support Lord Aegir's claims as witness. Dorothea and I were present for the unification of Fodlan." 

"That is not the only issue!" Hanth snapped, "Her, for example!" He pointed at Shamir, "Why is a citizen of Dagda-"

"I'm from Dagda, yeah," Shamir crossed her arms, "I came to Fodlan as a mercenary. Lord Aegir hired me." 

Ferdinand raised an eyebrow at the Dadga lord.

"We were invaded once-" 

"You started that fight," Dorothea pointed out.

He scowled, "I refuse to do trade until both Fodlan and Brigid have proven their stability. With that, I believe this meeting is over." 

He turned and stomped out. 

"...Geez," Nader sighed, "What a guy." 

Dorothea jumped. She had forgotten about the Almyran general. 

"General Nader, thoughts?" Petra looked over. 

"I got no problem with trade, long as Fodlan doesn't interfere with our merchants," the general shrugged, "Might have to double check with the king on that though." 

"I see. In that case, do what you must," she nodded. 

"...Shamir, are all the nobles from Dagda like that?" Ferdinand asked. 

"Dunno," Shamir shrugged, "I haven't been there in years." 

"Well," Dorothea sighed, "I suppose not trading with Dagda isn't too much of a loss…" 

"I am sure we can manage," Petra nodded, "Ferdinand? Are you confirming a trade with Brigid?" 

"But of course!" Ferdinand smiled, "And I hope we can establish trade with Almyra as well!" 

"Hah! Sounds good!" Nader laughed. 

"Shall we shake on it then?" The nobleman asked. 

"Yes," Petra nodded, and held out her hand. She shook with Ferdinand, then Nader, and then the two shook hands with each other.

It was agreed. 

Ruling a country that once was a vassal to another wasn't easy. Especially not when there were relationships she had to repair with other kingdoms, but maybe… just maybe, she could do it. 

As long as she had Dorothea, the person whom she is said to have loved the most, standing at her side.

~♡~

[leelee10898]

Chikara: Ojike (3/?)

Summary: Ellie finally moves forward with her life, and something goes horribly wrong. Ojike translates to Fear.

Warning! This chapter contains violence, pain and sexual violence. Read at your own risk.

Series Raiting: Mature. Angst, character death and violence, Nsfw content.

Catch up HERE

** I apologize in advance. Line break is not working

"Again." He ordered. Ellie got into position as Colt charged her, she quickly ducked under his punch and jabbed him in the side. Colt turned around and faced her, this time his leg swept out and Ellie quickly jumped out of the way, taking out his other leg. Colt fell to the ground,  but not before he grabbed hold of her ankles taking her down with him. He pinned her down on the ground, his face inches from hers. "Damnit Ellie. Remember always watch your opponent's movements. It could be a matter of life or death." She rolled her eyes "Is this really necessary?"

Colt let go of his hold on her, Ellie used her body strength to flip Colt over. She straddled him pinning his arms above his head. "Always watch your opponent's movements." She smirked at him. "Cute." He chuckled. She pressed her lips to his, as he wriggled his arms free, his hands stroking her sides.

"Ok, let's work on another sequence."

Colt jolted up from a dead sleep. It was just a dream, but damn if it didn't feel real. Shortly before Ellie went to Riyas, Colt taught Ellie some self defense. Every member of the Kaneko family was made to take different forms of martial arts. Teppei may not have wanted Colt to take the helm of the MPC, but he damn sure insisted he have the same training. He looked at his phone, 8 pm which mean it was 11pm Eastern time. He crept from the couch, and walked out the back door taking a seat on the steps. He punched in his passcode and opened his photos,opening the one album that got him by, Ellie.

There weren't many, mostly of prom. A few from their time together at the garage, the times they spent sneaking around with each other.  He missed her so much it hurt, the days were ok he kept himself busy, but the nights wore the worst. He told himself not to do it, but his needs got the best of him. He punched in the number he memorized by heart, blocking the number of course. He held it to his ear as it rang on the other end, 3 times before he heard it

Hello?

He felt like the air had been sucked out of his lungs. Such a sweet sound, a sound that could bring him to his knees.

Hello? She said again.

He couldn't speak, but god did he want to. He wanted to tell her that he loved her and missed her so much. He wanted to tell her that he was coming there, to be with her, to protect her, but he just couldn't. He shouldn't have even called.

Colt? Colt is it you? He could hear the desperation in her voice.

He panicked, quickly hanging up the phone.

"Hey, there you are? How's that side feeling?" A voice came up behind him. He quickly wiped the tears that had been pooling in his eyes "Hey x, yeah im feeling a little better. I'll be heading back home tomorrow. " he stood averting her gaze so she wouldn't see the sadness he couldn't shake. He stepped into the house, ximena following behind. After he was attacked he went to the only place he thought he could get help, ximena. He filled her in on what happened, And how the assailant told him that Wallace sent him. Colt was planning on going after them, hunting them down and taking care of them once and for all.

"I know you miss her Colt. But you're going to burn yourself down before you can even make it to her. Get out of LA, got be a normal guy." Ximena ruffled his hair with her fingers. "I don't know how to be a normal guy X. And if the brotherhood is out there still, it's not safe for me to be around her, not yet." He flopped down on the couch,  wincing in pain as he forgot about the fresh gash on his side. "I just hope you know what your doing kid."

******

East Coast.........

"Colt. Colt is that you?" Ellie panicked,  desperate to hear his voice, but she was met by the end of the call.

"Hey, whats up Ellie? Ingrid came to find her as she had stepped away once she noticed the blocked call flashing on her screen. It had to be him, he would be the only one to call her blocked, but why wouldn't he say anything?

"I think Colt called me blocked." Ingrid gave her a stern look. "Did he say anything?" Ellie shook her head no. "Well how do you know it was really him? I think you need to put your phone in your purse." She took the phone from Ellies hand, and slipped it into her purse. "And enjoy the movie with us. Nick seems to really like you." Ingrid grinned looping her arm in Ellies. "Yeah, You're right. Ok I can do this." Ellie took a deep breath and rejoined the two men for the movie.

Over the next couple of weeks Ellie spent most of her free time with Ingrid, Kyle and Nick. She knew Nick liked her it wasn't much of a secret, Ingrid made sure to tell her every chance she got. She also broadened her horizons by taking a few dance classes, and not the classical training ones her father forced her into, since she enjoyed learning from Logan. It was two days before Christmas break kicked off.  Ellie had just finished her last paper and pressed send, closing her laptop when ingrid busted into the room. "Get up, were going out."

She demanded, throwing open Ellie's closet. "Ah. Ok where are we going?" She came up beside Ingrid, who was frantically searching through Ellies clothes.  "Nothing. You have nothing here. Guess you'll have to wear something of mine then." Ingrid sighed. "Ingrid, slow the hell down, where are we going?" Ingrid stiffened rolling her eyes as she turned towards Ellie. "Ellie. It's the sigma beta sigma holiday mixer. The most important of all holiday parties on campus, and we scored an invite." Ellie knew a few of the sigma brothers, she helped a few of them writing reports for them.

"Yes. Yes this will work beautifully." Ingrid held up a bright red short flare dress, with a squared neck and spaghetti straps.she handed the dress to Ellie, and motioned to change. It fit like a glove, she paired it with a pair of black tights and booties, colts leather jacket the finishing touch. She scrunched her hair,  giving the illusion of perfect beach waves. Ellie looked at herself in the mirror, it had been a while since she got dolled up, but she felt good. "Ok, time to take a selfie." Ingrid grinned as she slid up next to her, both posing for the picture. "

She posted the photo to Instagram, tagging Ellie and they headed for the party.

Once there Ellie enjoyed herself dancing and chatting with some people she met in a study group. She broke into a smile when she spotted Nick approaching with two red solo cups. "Hey you." Nick handed her a cup. "You look stunning Ellie." She held the cup in her hand, staring down at the contents. "You're not going to end up drunk off one drink. Its holiday punch." Nick teased as Ellie lifted the cup to her ruby lips taking a modest sip. She immediately grimaced at potent concoction she ingested. Nick snorted at her expression. "Ok, that was downright disgusting." She gagged.

She shared a few dances with Nick, before she knew it it was almost 12. She went in search of Ingrid to let her know she was leaving, she had a ton of packing to do and her flight left at 10 am. She looked everywhere she possibly could before giving up her search. "Can you tell Ingrid I had to leave. I can't find her anywhere." She asked Nick who was nursing a beer in the corner of the room. "Yeah, sure.  Do you want me to walk you home?" He searched her eyes for any kind of sign "No, I'll be alright. Thanks though. You're such a good friend Nick." She stood on her tiptoes placing a kiss on his cheek. "Yeah, good friend." He half chuckled. "Merry Christmas Nick." She smiled as she headed for the door.

It was a couple block walk back to the dorm. She pulled colts jacket tightly against her body, to shield herself from the bitter wind that slashed against the sheer fabric of her legs. It had just snowed a few days prior, so she had to be careful walking not to slip in ice with the slight heal on her boots. She made it a block from the frat house before she noticed a shadow trailing behind her. A chill rippled through her body, but not from the cold. She picked up the pace, trying to put some distance between her and the uneasy feeling of the stranger behind her. She crossed the the other side of the street in hopes the other person would stay on the opposite side, and when they followed she felt her heart drop and pulse race.

Just 2 more blocks to go, but the uneasy feeling grew as the person picked up their pace. Ellie broke into a sprint as they headed for the dimly lit alley that separated her from the town and the campus.  If she could just make it onto school property she would be ok. She walked into the alley, a dead end. Her nerves getting the better of her, she took a wrong turn, there was only one way out and the person following her, a man, was now right in front of her, blocking her only exit.

"Man, you're a hard one to get alone." He spoke, as he gave her a crooked smirk. "St- stay back. You. You don't know who you're messing with." Her voice betrayed her. "Heh," he laughed. "I know exactly who you are Ellie wheeler. Man, Jason said to take care of you." He began to move forward, Ellie cowering away backing into a wall. "You're a lot cuter than I expected. I think I'll have myself a little fun before I kill you."

"Jason? No. He's in jail." Ellie whimpered in disbelief.  "Oh. You didn't hear? He escaped. And he wants retribution for your betrayal." The man lunged for her, somehow she remembered the training she got from Colt, her father and Logan.  She stepped to the side slightly, bringing her knee up and slamming it into his groin hard. He crumpled to the ground with a loud grunt as Ellie ran towards the opening of the alley. "No you fucking dont." He reached out grabbing her leg, pulling her down to the cold, unforgiving pavement. She picked herself up quickly,  shaking off the stinging pain of her hands.

Her assailant gripped her by the hair spinning her around and slamming her into the brick wall, hitting her head. A small trickle of blood ran down her face, As she screamed out. His hand gripped tight in her hair he spun her around to face him. "My. My father is a detective,  he will see you in jail. And my. My friends, the MPC. they'll kill you." She sobbed out the man looked at her with a wildness in his eyes. "I'll be long gone by the time they find you sweet thing. The brotherhood stays hidden." He began to push her dress up. Panic set in, she flailed wildly as he cupped her mouth drowning out her screams. She moved her head biting down on his hand hard, eliciting a scream from the man. He lifted his hand and back handed her, sending her to the ground again. "You little bitch. I'm going to enjoy this." He spoke as he grabbed her legs, pulling her towards him. Ellie thrashed her legs frantically, freeing one and kicking him into the stomach. She stood, adrenaline pumping,  anger coursing through her veins. She kneed the in his jaw as he doubled over in pain from the kick to his abdomen. She should have ran, she should have screamed for help but the only thing on her mind was hurting the man who attacked her.

As she landed blow after blow she felt herself being torn apart, the shy sweet nerd she once was falling away, leaving something behind she didn't quite recognize. The man collapsed on the ground, face bleeding badly from where Ellie punched repeatedly. With some strength he grabbed hold of her ankle yanking her to the ground. He hovered above her grabbing her head on either side and slamming it back into the pavement with a sickening thud. Her eyes flickering shut she seen a figure ran into the alleyway pulling the man off of her. The last thing she heard was her name being called repeatedly as she slipped into blackness.

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