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romana-after-dark · 6 months

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Room's on Fire: Girl on Fire

Dark!Santiago Garcia x Fem!Reader Dark!Francisco Morales x Fem!Reader Dark!William Miller x Fem!Reader Dark!Benjamin Miller x Fem!Reader

Also: FishBen, and an assortment of other M/M relationships (no Millercest). Everyone is Bisexual

Series Masterlist: Main Masterlist : MainTaglist

Spotify playlist

Summery: Everyone is together, everything is complete.

Warnings and Content:

DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT

DUB CON MOSTLY but there WILL BE NON CON. Major character deaths, forced breeding, physical abuse, brainwashing, manipulation, violence, gore, alcoholism/addiction, BIG OLE BLASPHEMY WARNING like this cult appropriates a lot of religious themes and they call reader their Madonna, Santi is called the Pope, like all that stuff. However, this is a cult so I mean. It happens. None of it are my thoughts on religion or meant to make fun of religion or demonize religious people. Disgusting views on virginity. Attempted rape outside the boys. T*m warning. Age gap. Creepy terrible men. Non-reader rape, dub con, violence. Covert incest, massive mommy issues, sexual abuse all around, past grooming by parental figure. no CSA but the victim isn't much older. some Bates Motel type shit. I cannot properly warn you for everything, without just telling the story but consider this a major warning that there are dark dark themes. No one involved here is morally clean, and who you perceive as the good guy cannot be relied on. Don't come to my story and say im romanticizing these things until at least the story ends.

WARNINGS HAVE BEEN UPDATED!!!

Extra warnings for chapter: Pregnancy, breeding kink, violent sex, domestic violence on a man, gunshots, references to murder,, death, torture, all the horrors. The end was disturbing even to me, so read with caution. If you find the end was too much, just ask me what happens and I'll tell you. not super plot important but like it was pointed out, the sex is how we see dynamic shifts. Mentions of mpreg fantesy but no mpreg will happen bc they arent actually god, just insane.

3.7k words

A/N: Some pov shifts. Madonna, Jonah, Rey, Santi all get POV's.

A.N2: context for song quote, Alicia wrote girl on fire after the birth of her son.

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"She's on top of the world Hottest of the hottest girls say Oh, we got our feet on the ground And we're burning it down Oh, got our head in the clouds And we're not coming down This girl is on fire" ~ Girl On Fire, Alicia Keys

“It’s okay, you’re gonna do great.” Rey assured her, sitting on a table in the dressing room despite a chair being right there. His lanky legs liked to dangle, you noticed, or sometimes perch up in high places. He reminded you of a bird sometimes, lithe and graceful and seemed to float on his feet.

“What if they don’t like me? What if something happens? What if there’s another uprising or someone wants revenge on me because of my dad-”

“The people love you, and they were going to love you even more with this announcement. Jonah’s not going to let anything happen to you, you know that.”

Your face grows warm at the mention of Jonah. He had acted distant with you since the instance of Frankie and you on the horse, and wouldn’t let you see his face when he showed up the next morning with bruises. In fact, you’d hardly seen him at all. Rey was your primary guard, and Will had talked about moving your room to one with an attached room for Reyansh so that he could stay with you at all times. It seemed everyone knew Iris and Rey were an item, or at least they understood Reyansh was not a threat. You had begged Will not to switch around rooms. The reason given was that you liked your room, but really, you were hoping that you’d be moved into a room with one of your husbands. You weren’t visited by the incubus the night they all slept in your room.

Still, Jonah looked out for you. Under your dress right now was his bulletproof vest.

A knock on the door.

“Come in.” Iris called to the door, still working on your hair.

Will entered the room. “Are you ready, Madonna?”

Before you opened your mouth, Iris replied. “You could use her real name, you know.”

Will didn’t look at her, keeping his eyes on you. “Her name is irrelevant, her position is everything.” When he turns and sees Reyansh, Will frowns. “What are you doing in here?”

Iris was quick to answer his unvoiced question. “He only came in after she was dressed.”

He instructs Reyansh to ready the carriage. Once he was out, Will turned to you with a smile. “You look stunning, Madonna.” Your heart swells with love for your handsome husband, dressed in his loose white shirt. In your hair, small white flowers adored you, carefully placed and worked in by Iris’s hands. She was incredible, making your dress too. It was colorful, with a color representing all four of your husbands. Under it, a bulletproof vest. No one in delta outside of guardsmen was allowed guns, but he wanted to be safe.

“Wow…” Will whispers, taking you in. There was just the slightest swell of a bump, you wondered if it was just weight gained from eating more these few months. Will took you into his arms kissing you deeply and feeling your stomach. Iris mumbles close enough as you’re pulled away. He turns back to her only a moment. “Make sure everything is ready when we’re back, please.”

Iris sighs, “It always is, Mr. Miller.”

Jonah cocked his gun. “Same as last time, honey. Anything happens, you come with me. Those guys can handle themself. I get hurt, do not stop for me. Just run. Someone will come find you, you just keep yourself alive, got it?” His brown eyes were on you for the first time in a long time, and you relaxed. Jonah’s eyes always calm you. It’s scary, knowing you were responsible for not just you, but someone else as well. The priestess stood at the balcony to the side, your husbands flanking you. Pope to your right, Francisco to your left, Ben to his left and Will to Popes right. Just as you were married.

“Men! Women! Children of Delta!” She shouts to the crown. “I present your Gods and your Madonna!” The crowd erupts into screams, and your heart fills with love for your people. “And!” A hush falls over the ground, waiting breaths quiet as they wait for the news. “I present to you, THE SAVIOR!”

The sound was deafening, a noise that shocked you and made you stumble back. To your surprise, Pope was behind you. It was a greater surprise when he rucked up your skirt.

Immediately your hands, out of instinct, go to bring the material down but his fingers quickly dig into your skin, warning you to behave. So, you stand there, humiliated, left hand gripping Francisco’s tighter. Pope loved you, he loved you and he’d never do something just to humiliate you! How stupid of you for feeling that way. This child was long prayed for, they and your body belonged to your husbands, belonged to Delta. Pope lifted your dress over the small bump,exposing your underwear to the crown. No one outside of your husband, a few house motherns and prefects had seen you in your underwear, so this was difficult…

But then Pope kissed your neck, and the worries melted away. Will, Francisco and Ben come to you, each placing a hand on your stomach as the priestess shouts, reaffirming that the savior’s parentage was of all four, that each of your husbands fathered this baby. You were called the vessel for their seed.

Then, you were placed on a tour. On a sitting carriage with all 4 of your husbands, you were paraded around to cheering people, the faces of women from your dormitory and even your room recognizable in the crowds. One woman whose bed was next to yours shot you a deadly glare as you passed by. She was mean, frequently detailing her escapades with Ben and throwing your own lack of attention in your face, but who was laughing now? Ben choose her for a short term fuck. You had a greater purpose.

When you reached the mansion again, the gates were crowded with people reaching out for you, and although there was fear as the mass of the crowd grew, there was also power. The savior of the broken, the beaten and the damned lay in your holy womb, you were the bringer of life. YOU were the divine mother.

The gunshot brought you back to reality.

“WILL!” You scream as your husband is shot backwards, stumbling into his brother’s arms who he shoved out of the way of the bullet. Jonah didn’t care about Will, however. He didn’t care about Ben falling at him brothers side under the weight. He didn’t even care about Francisco scrambling to grab at Ben in the chaos, and he certainly didn’t care about Santiago dragging Frankie away.

He cared about, sobbing in his arms desperately trying to get to your fallen love. Jonah wrapped an arm around you and pulled you away into the riotous, scampering crowd. You needed to get away from the shooter.

“NO!” You bawl loudly. Howling that he’s dying, that you need to be with him, but Jonah didn’t give a shit about that prick. He calls to Reyansh, who jumped out of the carriage the second the gun goes off. It was intentional, having Rey at the helm with him; only Rey would care enough about you out of all the guardsmen that Jonah could depend on him. Into the madness, you wouldn’t stop screaming and that rainbow dress of yours was not helping the situation.

“Rey! The tunic!” Jonah had to spin you around to disorient you enough to make you stop fighting in your hysteria, forcing your arms up while Rey slid a long, brown standard tunic over your body, making you blend into the neutral tones on the crown. Jonah clamped down over your mouth and pulled you away as the center of the shooting grew further away, Reynash covering you both. Once at the posting for a guard, Rey held you as Jonah mounted the steed and pulled you up, riding off with you.

You hadn't stopped sobbing for hours. Reyansh watched in concern, wanted so badly to comfort you lest the heaving and thrashing harm the baby or yourself. Rey loved children, he couldn’t wait for a day he could take Iris away and raise a family together, to finally be with her intimately and live a life with her.

Even if children weren’t in the picture (Iris wanted one in theory, but was hesitant to bring one into this world, understandably.) he’d cherish a life growing old with his lover. Maybe they’d some orphaned child; Iris had a soft spot for children in need. Her maternal instincts are why, despite not wanting to be friends or even really know her, Iris took care of the girl. Iris had ten years on the naive child. Continuously, she had warned him about keeping his distance, not raising suspicion that anything was happening between him and the girl, but it wasn’t his fault she was damn delightful. However, despite her obvious beauty, talents and sweet demeanor, nothing compared to Iris.

Reyansh could wax poetry about her all day long, and often did. He barely had any free time, most of the pockets of time he had, Rey liked to help Iris with her Herculean tasks, the laundry and dishes like Sisyphus and the boulder. He couldn’t take away the fact the next day would be filled with more dishes, more wall washing, more cooking, but he’d gladly sacrifice an hour of sleep so she could gain one. With him at all times, however, was his notebook and pen. As he sat at a mount or perch Rey liked to try his hand at poetry and writing.

Sometimes it was about the beauty of nature, the flowers he planted and gardens he kept, how they gave him joy during difficult times. Sometimes it was about the complex nature of family, of Iris and Jonah, Santiago and what he knew of Beatriz, which wasn’t much, the strained love and hatred between Will and Ben, or his own desire for fatherhood. Sometimes he wrote about the 5 lovers, the girl, the men who claimed to be gods, how each individual relationship strengthened them and weakened them in their own ways and how the girl changed things for better or for worse. Mostly, he just wrote about Iris, the prettiest flower he had.

He caught a glimpse of Jonah at the window, motioning him to come out. This safe house was his idea. Apparently, he and Marcus used to escape here sometimes.

Rey tries to tell you he’s stepping outside but you aren’t listening, curled up in a ball on the bed sobbing. He makes his exit.

Once outside, Jonah offers him a sip from his flask but Rey declines.

“I was going to ask how she is, but I can hear my answer.” The sound of you wailing penetrates the walls.

“How Will?”

“He’ll live, unfortunately.”

“Damn.”

“Yeah.” Jonah sighs, lighting a cigarette. “Wish those fuckers would just die.”

There was a long pause, Reyansh thinking hard before saying what he was thinking. He didn’t defy or talk back to Jonah, he respected him as his superior and, for all intents and purposes, his father in law. But Jonah was flawed. “You’re the one with a gun, Jonah”

Jonah inhaled a long drag before answering in a puff of smoke. “We’ve been over this.” He walked into the safe house.

They had talked, several times. Rey wanted Iris out but he didn’t have much power and knowledge. Jonah had the gun and a hundred reasons not to. There was no way to kill all 4 because everyone was armed. The community would riot. There was no where safe to go. A failed attempted would end Iris’s life. All these may be true, Jonah did have 4 decades of guard experience… but really, Rey thought he was just a coward, and maybe he cared for Pope and/or Francisco more than he’d like to admit. He’d been with those two since infancy, helped raise them, been a father figure most of their lives… it was understandable.

When he walked into the house, it was to crying but this time, relieved. He must have told her Will would be okay. You had your arms wrapped around his neck and he held you close to him, rubbing your back.

“It’s gonna be okay, honey, everyone’s gonna be just fine.”

Ben was changing Will’s bandages when you walked in and it made you nauseous to see the blood. Jonah said the bullet went straight through, that he’d be okay he just needed to rest, but the sight was disturbing.

Will groans. “Baby, don’t want you seeing me like this.”

Benny flicks his brothers arm. “Let her be, she was worried about you.”

The older Miller grumbled, but allowed you to kneel his side. He thumbed away a tear, “Don’t cry for me, beautiful girl.”

“What happened?” You sniffle, looking between Benny and Will.

“A girl from the dorms, she took the gun off a guard and tried to shoot-”

Ben interrupted. “You, Madonna.” He looked to his brother. “Melody, your old roommate, she tried to shoot you out of jealousy, she wanted to be with me. Will pushed you aside, took the bullet.”

You blink at that. Melondy wanted to shoot you? She wanted you dead? And Will. was he even standing by you? “But… I don’t remember being pushed.”

“Oh sweet girl…” Will cood. “Do you not remember? Poor thing, it was probably so traumatic-”

“No, I remember-”

“Your brain probably blocked a lot of it out, repressed it to protect you.”

Yeah, yeah that made sense. Memory was fragile. Will winced and Ben finished cleaning him and you took his hand as a new packing kit was applied. “Thank you for saving me…” You kiss his hand, feeling the rough knuckles warm skin. “For saving our baby…”

You fell asleep beside him that night, laying on his chest. He was warm, firm, inviting and protective. Nothing mattered more than the fact your husbands and your baby were safe.

Melody was dead. After the first shot missed, she approached where the four men had gathered intent on finding you, but Ben said Pope shot her square in the forehead, that he protected you while Jonah and Reyansh took you to safety. Ben said he had stood in front of his brothers and you, fearless, brave and bold. Pope loved his people, but he loved you most of all.

When you awoke, it was lae evening and although you wanted to go back to sleep, after some tossing and turning you realized you could. Not wanting to wake Will, you check his pulse and breathing, both strong and head out of the room to see if anyone is up. You know they dont like you wandering around the mansion without protection but you weren’t a child.

After Jonah and Rey had taken you back home, you were desperate to see William, but Pope demanded your presence with Francisco, both holding you tightly and checking you over again and again, tell you how precious you were, how loved. Pope knelt in front of you, hands on your belly, kissing it. You were thankful to have such loving and protective husbands. Despite the horrors of today, you felt blessed beyond measure

You came to the kitchen first seeing a light on. Sometimes Benny liked late night snacks. Instead, you see Iris and Reyansh slow dancing in the kitchen. Iris was actually smiling. No doubt Rey was fearful of his own women’s safety being forced in the cabin with you for so long after a riot broke out right outside where she was. Silent, you step away from the cute lovers and allow them their time. Rey helped save your life today, you needed to thank him, and thank Iris for all she did for your family, you were lucky to have them both.

You try to see if Pope is awake next. When you approach his room, the grunting sounds make you stop, peaking through the slightly cracked door. Pope was on top of Francisco, fucking into his ass with his legs bent up into a press. It was a position he used on you many a time. Francisco was a puddle beneath him, his curls stuck to the sweat on his head. He looked incredible. The way Pope kissed him so deep… You couldn’t help feeling warm inside. How lucky you were that your husbands loved each other so much.

Ben was found in the gym. For a moment, you merely watch him. Shirtless in his red shorts and throwing punches at a punching bag. He probably had so much energy in him after everything today, watching his brother bleeding in his arms. She knew they didn’t always get along, Ben holding anger for Will so often and over what, you couldn’t yet discern. Maybe this tragedy would bring them back together. You admire his body, carved out and chiseled in perfect form.

You loved the bodies of all your husbands, in each and every different.

Will was largess; tall, muscular, wide everywhere. Everywhere. His body consumed you just as yours consumed him; he was like a shield, metaphorically and now literally.

Santiago was softer. A small belly that was only noticeable when he was bent over, plush though and a moon shaped ass. He was all curves, from his nose down to his calved you had massaged so ardently.

If Pope was soft, Francisco was a pillow. Heavy weight surrounded him, the broad expanse of his shoulders to the fat at his waist and you just wanted to bury your face into it, you want to bite, nibble, and worship the pudge that spilled over his pants.

Ben was lean, the tallest of them and slim hips under rippling muscles. Golden God, beholden before you and it was as if his glory radiated off him. Despite the strength he was light on his feat. He could have been a boxer in another life.

“How are you feeling?” His deep voice breaks the tranfiction of the way his body moved, stilling the punching bag.

“I’m good, just woke from a nap with Will.”

Still looking away, Ben nodded. His mood matched the storm clouds out the window. After wiping his face, Benny chugged water and then finally made his way over to you in long, quick strides. His eyes flashed with the lightning outside.

Pope fucked Frankie with a fury he couldn’t recall in years. Frankie had defined him, ignoring his orders to leave but no, he wanted to stay with Ben.

“You don’t think I wanted Ben and Will safe too?” He growled in his lovers ear.

“I know!”

“You’re more important!”

He almost lost Will, Ben, the savior, and most importantly Frankie today. The girl would pay, fuck she’d pay. He couldn’t do anything Madonna might see, she thinks she’s dead already… no, a gunshot was to quick for someone trying to harm his family, but he’d make her suffer.

His anger toward Francisco wouldn't be helped when today, when he went to make love to Frankie, he found him in Ben's arms, cumming on his hand.

Ben had you pinned against the wall, fucking into you with your legs hitched around his narrow hips. The wind outside picked up speed, displaying his anger, his frustration, his love and his lust. You let him take you, fucking into your pregnant womb with his face tucked in your neck. You felt as if you were floating, like you were the center of the world right now. The sun God orbited you. Someone had tried to take you from him, a women he used to claim as his own but she had been cast aside for a reason. In her jealousy, she though she could regain her place at his side but that was foolish. Ben would never have loved her the way he loved you, the way he loved his husbands. Will, Francisco and Pope could never love her.

She was not the Madonna.

She could never carry the savior.

She could only ever have a bastard.

“Gonna fill you up, Frank.” Pope grunted, breath hot against Francisco's cheek, mouth to mouth, lips to lips. “Gonna fill up this tight little hole of yours until you’re pregnant with my baby, you got that?”

Frank’s eyes went wide. “Santi, wha-” But he stopped when Santiago slapped him. This shocked Frankie, Santi didn’t slap him, he didn’t hurt him like that…

“Take it!” Santiago screams, tears of anger blurring his eyes. He chose Ben over him. He’d rather stay in danger with Ben than safety with him. “Your mine, under stand?!” When Frankie didn’t answer right away, Pope gripped his jaw and felt a warm tear fall down his cheek. “DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!”

Long fingers gripping your asscheeks, digging into the sensitive skin.

Firm abs rubbing against your body.

Hips stimulating your clit.

A finger fucking into your asshole.

Everything was better than your wildest dreams. No incubus, a child on the way, friends and family. This was a life your father tried to take from you, but you were like gold that’s tested in fire.

Ben came inside when the thunder cracked, lightning still flashing and illuminating him with light. He muttered Francisco’s name.

“YES!” Francisco shouted in pain, face grimacing. “I’m yours! I’m yours Santi, fill me up! Make me-” He swallowed, tears forming at his long lashes. He gritted his teeth. “Make me p-pregnant!” Francisco was saying anything that'd make Santi stuff, just to make him cum and end this. He just wanted it over. All of it. He didn't understand why he wasn't allow to be happy, to feel safe, to have peace. Instead he had to submit to Santi's whims just like Beatriz.

Santiago tucked his face into his lovedrsneck, biting him as he came inside. Whimpering, tears streaming wildly down his face, Santiago bit into Frankie’s tender flesh: neck, then shoulder, till finally he just continuously bit into the skin on his large arm, drawing the blood and bruising the skin. It hurt like hell, Frankie's head thrashing back and forth on the pillow trying to take the pain and bare it. Santiago's tears mixed with blood as he finished cumming, thrusts slowing into a lul.

Francisco didn’t know where his body ended and Santi’s began.

He wanted Ben, to be held and protected by him. To be touched gently, with love. To be not possessed but show off so that he knew Ben was proud of him, proud of what they had, not what the fuck Santigo was doing to him. He wanted Madonna with her sweet kisses and open adoration. He wanted Will with his healing nature, tender hands on his arching, bleeding arm. He wanted anything but Santi’s touch right now.

Santiago curled behind Francisco. His hand rested on Frankie’s stomach.

***********

This disturbed me writing the end asdfghjkl

Madonna crying Reminds me of tww bonus chapter where little one thinks joel is dead and is just ugly sobbing

Madonna has... a lot to process today, and absolutly no therapy and no one she can be honest with about what she's witnessing.

I hope you all enjoyed... or .... something....???

Thoughts on Santis episode, Benny having a fit because he wanted Frankie but had to take madonna, will being shot, madonna is pregant, rey's thoughts!!!!! Jonah protecting madonna, etc.

UUUHHHHH poll?

love you all dearly <3 I hope to get at least one more tf fic for the triple frontier anniverary evnt before the end, and maybe something else like a TWW bonus chapter i've been wanting, but no gurantees. next week is spring break and i have 10k worth of commissions to write so il be busy! I wanna get the last chapter of my handmaids tale au out though, end that baby <3

also if you havn't yet, consider following me on my main @romanarose because im like 20 followers away from 2k and once i do, ill be open to writing stuff for a celebration!

Please consider joining me in in donating to humanitarian aid in Rafah through Doctors Without Borders

LOVE YOU ALL!

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taurusdaylight · 1 year

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[2.03pm] kindness

kindness came in the form of jeno lee. almost always having a smile etched on his adorable face, it was baffling to the people around jeno how he kept up with such a bright disposition all the time. it was as though he had little to zero anger coursing through his veins.

to some extent, it’s true that jeno rarely got angry. despite being a chronic overthinker, jeno’s not the type of person to let his emotions control him. instead, he’d mull over it for a bit. think about why he got upset over something, and if it was truly worth getting upset over. he would at most sulk a little, as evident by his pouty lips that would make an appearance every so often.

case in point: jeno currently getting lectured by yours truly in the corner booth of a quiet café. looking down on the ground, jeno absentmindedly stirred the straw in his cup while you talked.

you huffed, “you should stop being so nice to others.”

“i didn’t know how to reject him…” jeno replied softly, still not looking at you. “besides, it will contribute to our overall grade? it won’t take up much of my time anyway,” he quickly added, in hopes of making the situation better.

the both of you weren’t even talking about something extremely serious. you were simply nagging jeno for agreeing to help his groupmate finish his part of the project because he was apparently busy with other submissions. the first thought that came to your mind was, what about jeno? surely he had other things to do too.

the thing is, jeno was a kind person inside out. it wasn’t only about looking kind. deep down, jeno was tender-hearted and the biggest sweetheart to ever exist. as much as you believed in being kind, you were also aware of your boyfriend’s inability to say no to others whenever they approached him for help. no matter how he dismissed it as something trivial, you still didn’t like how he would go out of his way to do something that was not even supposed to be his responsibility to begin with. most important of all, you disliked how others took advantage of his kindness that came second nature to him, which rendered him to be at their disposal even if it wasn’t exactly convenient for him at times.

“we talked about this, jen.” you made a face at him, expressing your concern over this issue that repeatedly came up time and again. “i hate that other people are using you and you just let them.”

while jeno understood where your frustration was coming from, a part of him also felt wronged because he was simply trying to do something nice for others. why is it that he somehow managed to make you upset too? jeno felt like he couldn’t do anything right.

jeno finally stopped playing with his straw and looked you in the eye. “i’m sorry, okay? i won’t do it again, just please don’t be upset with me,” he said in a desperate plea.

“i’m not upset with you, so there’s no need to say sorry to me,” you assured him. one thing you learnt about jeno over the years was how his negative thoughts got to him more than he’d liked to admit. how he would willingly take the blame for something if it meant that it would keep the peace. thankfully, he simply needed a few words of affirmation for him to get out of his head.

you grabbed jeno’s hand and gently squeezed it. “i just want you to know that it’s okay to put yourself first. you don’t always have to think about others when you’ve got so much at hand. sometimes… just sometimes… it’s okay to be selfish too!”

your lips curled upwards into a bashful smile. “even i feel bad asking you for help. i don’t like to trouble you but i know you wouldn’t say no even if i did, especially not to me.” you were ashamed to admit that, but you could swear from the bottom of your heart that you only turn to jeno as a last resort because you didn’t want to be like one of those people who only went to him when they needed something.

“what?” jeno pouted even more. “but i like doing things for you. i’m your boyfriend, i’d hate it if you went to anyone else for help.”

“it’d make me feel useless,” he muttered.

you were quick to respond. “hey! don’t say that… you’re not useless at all.”

“anyway, don’t change the subject. after this project, please say no if you don’t have the capacity to help others, including me! if your worry is not knowing how to reject others, you could start with me. we are already so close, i won’t take it to heart if i asked you for help and you said no. let alone acquaintances who barely know you. baby steps, okay?” you looked at jeno expectantly.

jeno’s expression turned into one that was half a frown and half a smile, you could tell that he was feeling conflicted about it. “like you said, i could never say no to you, baby…”

you tried to bite back the small smile that made its way onto your face because of the nickname so that jeno would take you seriously. “so, you‘d do something about this?”

“only for you, yes.” jeno’s face broke into a wide smile as he tightened his grip on your hand.

“you’re supposed to say no!” you replied jokingly in order to play off the shyness that came with jeno’s affectionate gesture. “you’ve failed the first test, i thought you were better than this…”

an incomprehensible noise left jeno’s mouth. “i’m so confused right now… so do i say yes or no?”

you sighed, well aware of how this was going nowhere given jeno’s innocence that sometimes made him come off a little… naive. like the time you told him that you were going to teach him something to tell your parents in your native tongue and he obediently repeated after you, only asking what it was later on (it was a curse word, and you were glad he asked before the actual meeting with your parents).

“nevermind… the next time someone asks you for help, just tell me. i’ll make sure they’d never want to ask a favour from you ever again.”

jeno’s eyes widened in shock, “o-okay.”

“i’m just kidding. but seriously, i’d help you reject them so you don’t have to,” you said with a smile.

“thank you,” jeno said sincerely, “i know you mean well, and i appreciate you looking out for me.”

at his words, you leaned over the table to give jeno a peck on his right cheek, on the spot just slightly below his beauty mark. he laughed quietly, his smile uncontrollably becoming wider by the second.

the both of you were so immersed, it was fortunate that the café was empty enough for the moment to remain intimate. better yet, the owner was preoccupied with his tasks, not sparing a single glance at the direction of your table.

between soft giggles and shy smiles, you and jeno indulged in each other’s loving company until the sun fell, its golden rays penetrating through the glass window situated next to your table.

#jeno timestamps #jeno drabbles #jeno imagines #jeno scenarios #jeno x reader #jeno fluff #nct timestamps #nct imagines #nct scenarios #nct #nct dream #nct jeno #jeno #lee jeno

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a-french-coconut · 3 months

Text

Luke Castellan (Part 2)

Each day, his forces grow a little stronger, demigods joining them from all over the country, even Camp Half-Blood.

It's time.

Already ? It's only been one year.

He's in his office, seated next to a golden coffin that grows more visible every time a demigod pledge themselves to Kronos.

Our army is strong and with Jackson on his father's side, we need another piece in the game.

He stays silent, reaching for a piece on the chessboard on front of him.

Would it really work ?

Will it bring her back ?

Yes, the Golden Fleece is a powerful artefact.

They why didn't Chiron, or even Dionysus, ever told him ?

He would have went on that quest without hesitation, he would have saved her !

I feel your anger rising, good. Remember, Chiron, Dionysus and all the other gods don't care about you. With her dead, they thought they could avoid the Great Prophecy.

He clenches the piece in his hand, his familiar hatred boiling in him again.

They had killed her, valued her as a defective object that needed to put down.

I shall inform our spy at Camp to proceed.

If Silena didn't change her old calendar, she should be horse riding now.

"Silena, do you copy ?" He asks her through the charm bracelet.

"Hi Luke."

As always, the daughter of Aphrodite have this sweet voice, one that could work on many guys but Luke couldn't be more indifferent to it.

Silena Beauregard is not his type of girl but he can't risk having her offended by a rejection.

"Hey Lena, I need you to do me a favor."

"Of course ! Anything you need." Comes back the answer, cheerful and hopeful.

"The poison Lila gave to you last time you two met ? Use it on the target."

"Oh, okay." She sounds disappointed but frankly, she should know better than expect him to like her, daughter of Aphrodite and all that. "Are you sure you want to do this ?"

"Of course I'm sure," he frowns, "why are you asking ?"

"It's going to hurt her Luke, deeply. It's like she'll die again."

"She isn't going to die" he snaps at Silena, voice cold and harsh, "a quest will be issued to save her. Now go do your job and stop questioning my orders !"

He abruptly cuts contact, not caring about how it might affect Silena.

He looks at the piece in his hand.

Kronos wants a new pawn to balance the careful game they are playing.

"Castellan," an empousa barges in, "Torrington is asking for you on deck, he needs you to teach the soldiers a manoeuvre."

"Tell them I'm coming Kelli."

She nods, promptly leaving him alone.

He gets up, puts some light armor before gripping Backbiter and getting out of the office.

On the table, away from the chessboard and its pieces, stands the dark queen, as proud as the girl she represents.

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

He dreams of her, of the pine's leaves slowly turning gray, the bark rotting and falling on the ground.

He wonders if she can feel it.

(When he faces her again, on a mountain top surrounded by ruins, he'll know that he made her suffer.)

As expected, Chiron is fired and Tantalus takes over the leadership.

Luke thinks he knows why Kronos chose him. Indeed, they seem to share the same culinary taste.

"How long until the poison kills the tree ?" He asks Alabaster who created it.

"One week, depends on what cure they will administrate it." The son of Hecate shrugs, clearly unconcerned with Thalia's fate. "Don't worry Luke, they should make it time."

"They better," he mumbles under his breath, "if Thalia dies, there is no way for me to convince Annabeth to join us."

"About that," Alabaster fidgets, "Are you sure she'll want to join ? She seems pretty loyal to the Olympians."

"When Thalia joins us, she will too." Luke assures his second in command, "why don't you go find Ethan ? Last time I heard he was still pining over you, looking at you with awe in his single eye."

He snickers slightly when his friend's face turns red, promptly leaving to find the son of Nemesis.

"This is a waste of time," Kelli scoffs from the corner of the room, "why aren't we sending our own forces to get the Fleece ? It would be a lot more productive."

"Because" he glares at the monster who languidly gets closer to him, "they need to ultimately have the Fleece and they are not going to accept it as a gift from us. Hence, they need to find it by their own."

"If you say so, Castellan." Kelli sighs, seating on his armchair, "the girl you keep talking about, Talia or-"

"Thalia" he corrects her, slightly uncomfortable with her proximity.

"That," Kelli narrows her eyes on him, her talons tracing lines on his shoulder and arm," what does she mean to you ?"

"She's a dear friend," he quickly gets out of the chair, earning himself a scowl, "and a powerful ally to have."

"I'm sure she would make quite a feast," Kelli smiles, "Zeus' blood is always so delicious-"

"Don't kid yourself" Luke cuts her off curtly, "you don't stand a chance against Thalia."

"Is that so ?" she hisses, "then maybe I should pay her visit when she's done housing birds and squirrels, to see her worth."

With the speed of a son of Hermes, Luke unsheathes Backbiter and furiously slashes at Kelli but she jumps out of the chair and the only thing damaged is now his furniture.

"Thalia is an essential person in our plan, do you want me to tell our Lord that you wish to harm her ?" He snarls, pulling off his sword from the wood.

"Oh, now" Kelli chuckles nervously, "there's no need for such rash action, I have no intention to go near the daughter of Zeus."

"Good," he says firmly, "now get out, I have work to do."

She hisses at him, hair burning a bright orange but nonetheless hobbles her way out, the sound of her bronze leg hitting the ground echoing in the corridor.

He forces himself to breathe, to squash down his fury against that damned empousa.

His charm bracelet heating up, the signal Silena is trying to contact him, distract him from his insider turmoil.

"Silena," he says rather irritably, "Lila is in charge of receiving your infos, I have enough work to do."

"I thought you would have wanted to hear this but fine, I'll just transmit to Lila and she can tell you." The daughter of Aphrodite says with a snappy voice.

"Wait," he calls to her," what it is ? I'm not busy right now."

A lie since he has to prepare a meeting concerning their sponsors but he is curious about what is so important.

"Clarisse got a quest and she's leaving first thing tomorrow morning to retrieve the Fleece."

"Clarisse ?" He frowns, "why would they send Clarisse when the Fleece is on an island in the Sea of Monsters ? Jackson's obviously a better choice."

"Tantalus isn't very fond of him."

"Tell that idiot that Percy must come." Luke hisses, furious against the new director. "it's the perfect opportunity to trap and kill him."

"It's too late, it would be weird for him to suddenly change opinions." Her voices curls in distaste, "how are we going to keep him Luke, the guy gives the creeps."

"Then avoid him because he is going to stay as long as possible."

"But", her voice wavers, "he might want to hurt the kids."

"Kids" he scoffs, "that are on the opposite side Lena. We are bound to fight them sooner or later."

"We want a better word for all demigods," she stresses her word, "even them, do we not ? I don't see how Tantalus fits into our vision."

"He does for now" he grits out, "anything else ?"

"No, Percy has arrived at camp but he isn't going on the quest. Oh ! Wait, no, I have something to tell you-"

"It'll have to wait," he eyes Chris who just entered and mouthing to him they are here, "I really need to go, please inform your official agent of any new developments and not me."

"Our spy ?" His brothers asks, tilting his head.

"Clarisse has been sent to retrieve the Fleece," Luke eyes carefully his brother's face, "dangerous quest, some might say lethal."

"Clarisse's strong," he mutters quietly, not looking in Luke's eyes, "she'll get through it."

"One day, we are going to fight her, are you sure you'll be able to do so when it happens ?"

"Yes, my loyalty is to Kronos and you."

Chris looks at him with a hardened gaze, grim determination etched on his face.

"I'll do whatever you need me to if it means getting retribution."

"Good," he smiles," I'm please to see your faith in me."

When he passes in front of him, he puts a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder.

"Kronos will appreciate that kind of loyalty once we win the war, brother, be sure not to lose it."

As he leaves to greet his guests, he doesn't see Chris carefully taking a picture of his trouser's pocket, with on it a girl with a bright red bandana hugging with one arm a younger Chris.

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

"Well, I have to say I didn't expect you here."

He looks rather amused at the trio confronting him.

"Percy, I should have known you couldn't stay far from me for too long, Annabeth," he looks at her, properly seeing her since he left, "you've grown and-"

His voice dies out as he looks with disbelief at the boy in front of him.

Except he's not a boy.

No, he's monster.

A cyclops.

"Really, Annie ?" He says rather hysterical, earning himself a weird look from everyone except Annabeth who's red with shame, "of all monsters, a cyclops ?" He pronounces it with such disgust, such hater towards that kind.

"Don't talk to Tyson that way !" Percy angrily say, struggling against Agrius's grip.

"Why ? Fond of him Jackson ?"

To that, the son of Poseidon stays quiet, the same red Annabeth has colouring his cheeks.

"Well, as fun as this is, I'm afraid it must come to an end." He sighs, "Agrius and Oreius, take them downstairs, I heard the monsters were hungry."

But the cyclops breaks free and sends Oreius tumbling on his brother, giving Percy to opportunity to escape.

"Catch them !" He roars to his soldiers but they have already bolted out of the room.

He can only watch them, seething, disappearing on the horizon on one of the emergency life boat.

He had them...

They were on his boat, unarmed and outnumbered and they escaped.

Shame and rage churn his stomach, make his body vibrate with fury and Alabaster is the one to pay the price.

"Torrington !" he bellows at the son of Hecate, "they were three and you had six demigods and two monsters at your commands !"

"The monsters don't listen to me !" he protests, looking straight into Luke's eyes, "I'm the General of your demigods' army."

"And what have you been doing all those months ?" he hisses, "how come they were completely useless to stop them !"

He sees Alabaster's eyes glower and green ruins appear on his jacket. He reaches for Backbiter but a little girl suddenly puts herself in the way.

"Stop this ! Please !" she begs, looking fearfully at Luke.

"Lou," Alabasters says softly, "get out of the way."

"No, I'm not letting you fight with him !" Lou crosses her arms defiantly, stubbornly not moving.

"Your sister ?" He asks his general who curtly nods, still eyeing him and ready to fight.

But Luke only looks at Lou.

She's small, black-haired and has startling green eyes.

If he has to guess, she must be eleven years old, younger maybe.

And yet, despite her young age, she looks at him warily and ready to protect her brother.

He sheathes his sword to Alabaster's great surprise.

"They'll have to come back once they get the Fleece, we'll catch them then."

He leaves the deck and Torrington's confused face to isolate himself in his cabin.

He spends the next hour twirling a cheap ring on his necklace, thinking of a young blond girl with startling grey eyes and wondering if she would too protect him if he needed it.

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

He doesn't remember falling asleep.

And yet he is chained upside down, with an unbearable heat burning his face as he looks at the cauldron below him.

He remembers that place.

It's when they were on the run and Thalia and he got captured by a cyclops.

Annabeth had been the one to save them, stabbing bravely the monster and freeing them.

"Luke ! Stop looking like an idiot and use your powers !" A voice next to him snaps in the air.

She's there, looking wildly alive, face etched into a scowl and gleaming from sweat.

"Thalia..." he whispers with a broken voice.

"Is the heat making you lose your mind ?" She says harshly, a worried frown appearing on her features, "yes it's me, Thalia. The girl who is about to buzz you if you don't find a solution."

It's been so long since he heard her talking and not screaming.

The way her eyes pulse with electricity.

The way her freckles are a constellation adoring her pale skin, contrasting so much with her spiky jet black hair.

The way she's pulsing with life, trashing against the chains restraining her and not cold dead on a forest's floor.

"Thalia, I-"

He wants to tell her everything, like he did before, to tell her about Kronos and his rebellion against the gods.

"Hurry, Luke !" She trashes even wilder, a small edge of fear in her voice.

He knows what happens next.

The cyclops comes back, failing to lure Annabeth in his trap, and as he's ready to cut their bonds, to let them fall into the boiling steaming pit below, the monster screams in pain and Luke seizes his chance.

He gets out of the now loosened chains, managed to free Thalia despite only using one hand, the other firmly gripping the chain, and the both of them jump onto the cyclops's arm.

That's when he sees the cause of the monster's pain.

Annabeth had stabbed him in the toe, his little sister looking terrified but determined to fight the beast.

Quickly, Thalia and he climb down the screaming monster until they're on the ground and help Annabeth kill him.

Then, she punches him in the gut after praising Annie.

"What the fuck Thals !" He groans, doubling over.

"What was that back there, huh ?" She asks angrily, irritated enough for not scolding off for the bad word, "why'd you froze like that ?"

"I didn't freeze, my powers were just useless." He winces when he feels his abdomen, it's definitely going to bruise.

She scowls but doesn't push him further.

"Come on, we have to go, Grover is waiting for us outside." Annabeth urges them, dragging them to the exit.

"It's too late."

Both Annabeth and Thalia look at him with utterly confused faces.

"What do you mean it's too late ? Too late for what ?"

"Forget I said anything," he mumbles hastily, pushing them aside to reach the exit, "it's nonsense."

A hand on his shoulder stops him.

It's not like her punch, no.

It's a prolonged contact, one where her hand barely touches his skin and yet, it is warmer than the boiling cauldron.

"Luke," he hears her say his name with worry, "what's wrong ?"

"Nothing's wrong Thals," he reassures her, not looking in her eyes. "We have to go, the monsters are gaining on us."

But she doesn't let go of him and her hand gets closer to his neck.

He doesn't turn, can't bear to look at her.

"You can tell me anything, you know that right ?" She whispers, her voice centimetres away from his ear.

"And I will," he replies, "I will but not today."

He terribly wants to face her, to tell her everything but he can't waste any more time.

It's stupid of him to think that maybe, in this dream Thalia makes it to Camp alive. It's like jumping off the cliff again when he knows he'll break himself on rocks below.

Yet, he hopes.

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

"Welcome back to the States, cousin." He smiles at Percy, holding Backbiter under his throat, "I'm the welcoming party."

"Really wasn't necessary."

"So uncivilised," he shakes his head, "come aboard, all of you."

This time, Grover is with them. Luke doesn't know why he is there, surely something Silena could explain, but he doesn't particularly care. There's only one thing he wants, and it's within his reach.

"Where is it ?"

"Where's what ?" Percy asks innocently, the ghost of a smile floating on his face.

"The Fleece, Jackson." Luke patiently says, "give it to me."

"I can't, it's gone." He says, his smile now very visible and irritably smug.

"It can't be gone Jackson, you are all here," Luke snaps before a horrible idea dawns on him, "no, there's no way, you didn't-"

"Yes," Percy says glowing with satisfaction, "Clarisse is already on the way to Camp with the Fleece. You lost Luke."

"What where you planning to do with the Fleece, anyways ?" Annabeth asks him coldly.

"Well, since none of you are getting out of here alive, I suppose I can tell you," he shrugs, trying to hide his growing panic at the perspective of telling Kronos he failed again, "I was going to use the Fleece to resurrect Kronos but I would have given it back to you after."

"Really ?"

"Of course Jackson, I know why you need the Fleece and I wouldn't have stopped you."

"That's rich," he scoffs, "considering what you did."

To his grand surprise, Jackson hurls a coin at him. One he easily dodge, the drachma falling in the water behind him.

"You betrayed me, betrayed DIONYSUS AT CAMP HALF BLOOD !"

"Old news Jackson, why are you doing this ?"

"Did you poison Thalia's tree ?"

"Of course I did !" He snaps at Jackson, utterly confused, "but you-"

"So Chiron had nothing to do with it ?" Jackson presses on.

"As if that old man could ever hurt his Camp !" Luke rolls his eyes, "why are you doing this ? You already know all of that !"

"I do, but now all the others do too."

"What others-"

His voice dies at he turns and sees the whole Pavillon of Camp Half-Blood looking at them, dead silent, through an Iris Message.

"See Mr D ? Chiron is innocent !" Percy says behind him.

"I suppose so Peter," the god sighs, "well then, goodbye Tantalus."

He waves his hand and the earth opens, swallowing the man whole.

With a furious scream, Luke slashes the Iris Message, making it pop in a cloud of mist.

"Chris !" He barks at his brother, "ready my stallion, I'm going after the Fleece."

His brothers nods and hastily leaves the room.

"As for you all, Oreius and Agrius are in dire need of fresh meat."

"So you're just leaving us here, not even able to kill us yourselves ?" Percy yells at him as they go on deck where a black pegasus awaits Luke.

"I have more urgent matters than you Jackson, believe or not."

"Why don't you fight me, eh ? Scared you'll lose like the first time ?" The son of Poseidon taunts him.

It's an impasse and they both know it.

If Luke declines, he loses credibility and if he accepts, he doubts he'll manage to intercept Clarisse.

"Very well, Jackson. Give him back his sword."

He arms himself with Backbiter and a shield and faces Percy.

"It's not fair Luke," Annabeth protests angrily, "at least give him a shield too !"

"The world's hardly ever is fair Annabeth," he snarls, "I had hoped you would know that by now."

He looks at Percy, scanning for weak spots and when he finds one, he attacks.

"You've gotten better Jackson" he grunts, blocking Riptide with his shield, "but there's not water trick to save you this time."

He kicks him in the leg and sends Riptide flying out of reach.

He hears Annabeth screaming, the cyclops bellowing and Grover bleating as he lower down Backbiter to stab Percy in the stomach.

Water slaps him, sending him tumbling backward and loud screams and confettis ?

Dozens of centaurs are on his ship, trampling his forces or throwing party hats and shooting paintballs.

One hits him on the stomach, splattering his shirt blue and bruising his skin.

Amidst the chaos, he registers Percy mounting Chiron while the others are on other centaurs, his old mentor whistles and they're all gone as fast as they came.

"Chris !" He roars, face red with fury, "the horse, where is it ?"

"It left with them," his brother groans from where he's sprawled on the floor, covered in paint, "saw Percy talk to him."

He feels like he might explode from shame and rage.

It's the second time Percy escapes him, the second time a thirteen years old beat him, an experienced twenty years old demigod.

"All of you, clean this mess ! I have to inform our Lord of this recent development."

He closes his office's door rather harshly, taking a few minutes to calm himself before contacting Kronos.

Master.

Next to him, the coffin glows and he feels him stirring, his presence lingering in the air.

You have failed.

Luke feels his throat drying, yes master.

And yet we are still successful.

I... I don't understand Master. Without the Fleece, you'll take more time to fully awake.

Foolish boy, do you think I cannot wait a few more years ? I have spent eons awaiting for this moment, I do not lack patience.

It was never about you, Luke realises, all you wanted was for the Fleece to reach her tree.

And it has, soon, we'll have another pawn in the game.

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

Far away, on a hill overlooking Long Island Sound, a girl opens her eyes under a grand pine tree for the first time in seven years.

#percy jackon and the olympians #pjo #percy jackson #camp half blood #luke castellan #annabeth chase #thalia grace #the sea of monsters #kronos #titan army

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lady-jane-asher · 2 months

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Jane Asher portraits featured in May 21st 1966 issue of woman. Shared by kimmclagan on here. My editions and enhancement of each picture for better quality! 🩷

She shrugs off her fume with an air of "Who's Jane Asher, for goodness sake?" The red-head, with Paul McCartney in her hair, talks about everything but you-know-who!

Plain unassuming-that's Jane. By Helen Speed

The trouble with being Jane Asher can be summed up in two words: Paul McCartney. To bring up his name, which people do constantly, is enough to make her about-turn, small face closed. "It's such a drag," she told me. "How would you feel if complete strangers asked you personal questions about the man in your life? It makes us laugh, really it does! It's nobody's business but ours. Nobody's. It's entirely between Paul and me."

Well, that suited me, because when I went to her London home, it was to talk to Jane Asher about Jane Asher and in no time we had dispensed with the Beatle bit. The truth is that Miss Asher has an acting career that's a go-go-going concern and she just doesn't need to use anybody's name to get attention.

I could tell that she'd be the last person to want to swing on someone else's star. In Alfie, which is Jane's latest feature film, she plays a provincial girl who comes into the life of a wolf-about-town, sweetens his souring world and moves out of it again, as gently as she arrived. What struck me on meeting her is that the real Jane has the same unassuming nature; in conversation she tends to “knock Jane" and there's no false modesty about it, no fishing for a complimentary contradiction from you. This quality is one which Paul McCartney must recognize in her in young actresses it's pretty rare!

Twenty year old Jane Asher lives with her family, her father is a doctor and their town house tiers above his ground floor offices in Wimpole Street, W.t. It's a house with four storeys, a busy telephone, and hard-worked stair carpeting. That rainy morning, I was shown up to the sitting-room on the second floor. Jane rose from a sofa in front of the window and shook hands. "Let's have your wet coat," she said, draping it over a chair to dry and ushering me into a comfy, fireside chair with two cushions. "I've just made coffee."

She dropped to her knees at the coffee table. A tray was all prepared and the Asher cups were those large blue and white striped ones. The room was warm, although the logs in the fireplace were unlit. They had been given a dash of colour: piled on top, upside-down and empty, were brilliant enamel pots and pans, all flame red. Jane's idea.

"This room is the hub of the house," she remarked. "You're seeing it at a quiet time. Mother is out. Father is working, and my sister Clare is at school." Mrs. Asher is a Professor at the Royal Academy of Music, and Clare, who is two years younger than Jane, hopes to make the grade as a geography teacher. Big brother Peter, the Asher half of the pop-singing pair, Peter and Gordon, was missing, too.

"I met him on the stairs ten minutes ago," explained Jane. "He was off to a Ready, Steady, Gol rehearsal, so I must remember to switch on tonight. Peter is very frank about what I do, which I like."

The Asher children have always been good friends, although Jane and Clare do have the occasional sisterly squabble. "Nothing serious," Jane assured me. "We share what clothes we can sweaters and blouses, not dresses and coats. Mine are too short for Clare. She's just a bit taller." Jane labels her own taste in clothes "not very modern": she isn't one to haunt the boutiques for gimmick gear.

"I go for feminine things, no matter how boyish current fashions may be." She rose to refill our cups. "I hope it's all right," she said anxiously.

"Mother is the coffee expert in this house. I'm really keen on the pure ground stuff, but I must admit most of the time I use the instant kind.

I'd like to get one of those push-button grinders like they had in The Ipcress File. I just have an old windy-windy one."

Given the chance she'll spend hours in the kitchen, alone with a transistor radio. "I love cooking, really love it," she enthused. "I nearly did the Cordon Bleu course when I was seventeen, but it would have been like going to school for a term and it was expensive. Instead, I went to a London County Council night-school, about seven-and-six a term, and you could bring home the things you cooked! There were millions in our class, of course, but it was very good.

I learned about stuffed marrows and how to do pastry properly."

#jane asher #the beatles #60s #beatles girls #actress #lady jane asher #something about jane asher #model #beatles women #redhead #red hair #1966 #magazine

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blu-joons · 2 years

Text

When He Takes Your Child To The Studio ~ 2PM Reaction

Jun.K:

A frown formed on Minjun’s face as your son struggled to catch his breath once again after being chased around the studio by Nichkhun and Junho.

His hand rested on his head as he watched everything, “how am I supposed to explain all this energy to Y/N when we get home?”

“Just tell her that Y/S/N had the best time with his uncles,” Junho suggested, offering a wide smile across in Minjun’s direction as he chuckled.

“He won’t sleep tonight like this,” Minjun told them all.

Another chuckle came from Junho as your son jumped on him, “unfortunately whether Y/S/N sleeps tonight or not is not our problem, that’s your issue.”

“Just help me out,” Minjun pleaded with them all, “if you keep him this excited then he’ll be bouncing on the ceilings, and I’ll have Y/N on my back for it too.”

“Stop being so scared of Y/N,” Wooyoung couldn’t help but tease too, “she’s not as scary as you think sometimes.”

“Try messing with her sleep schedule,” Minjun warned them, “and that’s what you’re doing now.”

“That’s a you issue I’m afraid Min.”

Nichkhun:

The volume in the studio quickly got louder as Nichkhun walked in, holding your daughter’s hand tightly as her legs excitedly bounced as she looked around.

Straight away, Wooyoung knelt down and opened his arms out to her. “Well, isn’t this a nice surprise,” he smiled, waving at her.

“Surprise,” Nichkhun laughed as he let her hand go, watching as she immediately ran over to Wooyoung, throwing herself against his chest.

“Since when was Y/D/N coming today?” Minjun teased.

Nichkhun shrugged as the rest of the boys walked over to him, “since Y/N got called into a meeting this morning and her parents are on holiday.”

“Maybe we can include Y/D/N in the routine,” Junho smirked, nudging against Nichkhun’s side, “people are bound to love our stage if we use Y/D/N in the middle of it.”

“She’s not here to dance,” Nichkhun reminded them all, “she definitely takes after Y/N when it comes to dance anyway.”

“Oh no,” Taecyeon smirked, unable to hold back his laughter, “we’ve all seen Y/N dancing.”

“Exactly, it’s not what any of us need.”

Taecyeon:

You smiled sheepishly as you knocked on the door of the studio, catching Taecyeon’s eye straight away as your son went running across in his direction.

The rest of the boys chuckled as they read you like a book. “I don’t suppose you guys mind doing me a massive favour, do you?”

“You want us to look after Y/S/N?” Junho chuckled as Taecyeon picked your son up and sat him in his lap. “Do we look like babysitters to you by any chance?”

“I wouldn’t ask if I wasn’t desperate,” you assured them.

Taecyeon’s head nodded back across at you, “you’re lucky that we’ve not really been doing much anyway, how long do you think you’ll be?”

“Not long,” you promised all six of them, “he’s fed and he’s got a drink in his bag so you guys don’t have to do a thing, just sit him down and let him watch you.”

“It’s not that easy,” Taecyeon roared with laughter in reply to you, “he’ll be up and running around in no time at all.”

“Sorry,” you whispered, “but just know that I really appreciate you guys doing this for me.”

“We’ll get you back for this Y/N!”

Wooyoung:

Several sniggers came from around the studio as your daughter went toppling to the ground, stumbling over her feet as she tried her best to copy Wooyoung.

He leant down and quickly helped her up, with Chansung on the other side. “What would Y/N say about you doing this?”

“Doing what?” Wooyoung innocently smiled back across at him, “Y/D/N is constantly asking me to teach her how to dance, what better place than the studio?”

“Does Y/D/N really ask you though?” Chansung teased.

Wooyoung’s head nodded confidently as he brushed your daughter down, “you just think I’m forcing Y/D/N to be a dancer like me, don’t you?”

“We all do,” Chansung admitted, looking around the studio. “I mean is Y/N really sick or was that just an excuse to bring Y/D/N along and teach her some more.”

“Y/N is ill…a little bit,” Wooyoung insisted, “but I guess maybe she could have looked after Y/D/N today, not me.”

“You can’t force your daughter into being a dancer,” Chansung chuckled across at him.

“Don’t let Y/N hear you say that.”

Junho:

A pout formed on Junho’s face as he heard the giggle of your son yet again, with Nichkhun pulling a funny face to try and tickle your son’s funny bones.

As he watched, Junho’s expression caught Minjun’s attention. “Are you not coming over?” Minjun shouted over to him.

“You guys don’t need me,” Junho whispered, “you seem like you’re doing a good enough job of keeping him entertained without me needing to be there.”

“You’re not jealous are you, Jun?” Minjun asked him.

Junho’s head shook back across at him, “why would I be jealous of you guys? You’re making my life easier by taking care of Y/S/N instead of me needing to.”

“Are you sure?” Minjun pushed, sensing from how hurried Junho’s response was that he wasn’t quite as fine as he was trying to convince the boys he was.

“You guys carry on,” Junho insisted, biting down on his bottom lip to try his best to control the expression on his face.

“Feel free to join us,” Minjun smiled, “you know deep down Y/S/N likes his daddy the best.”

“He’s fond of his uncles too.”

Chansung:

You raised a questionable glance at Chansung as soon as you walked into the studio, watching as your daughter rolled around on the floor, kicking and screaming.

An apologetic smile formed on his face as he looked across at you. “I thought you said that you’d take care of Y/D/N.”

“I am taking care of Y/D/N,” he quickly replied to you in protest, “I just forgot to mention that I’d require the help of five other people to take care of Y/N too.”

“She’s in good hands,” Taecyeon called out across to you.

Your head shook as your daughter’s loud giggles could be heard once again. “You know she has a dad to wind her up without needing a fun uncle too.”

“At least she’ll sleep tonight,” Chansung reasoned, nudging his hip against yours. “You needed someone to take care of her, and look at that smile on her face.”

“I guess she does enjoy hanging out with you,” you murmured, catching Chansung’s smug smile out of the corner of your eye.

“See,” he chuckled, “and all of the boys have loved having her here too Y/N.”

“They look more tired than you do.”

---

Masterlist

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iichaeyj · 2 years

Text

HARD TO LOVE

SYNOPSIS: you find yourself overthinking again, but luckily for you, soobin is there to reassure you.

PAIRING: bf!soobin x gn!reader

GENRE: angst, fluff, established relationship

WARNINGS: lots of mentions of anxiety, y/n overthinks a lot, not proof read AT ALL

WORD COUNT: 3.0k

A/N: this was very self indulgent….

You were lucky to have met Soobin.

Your boyfriend was sweet and caring in a way that your past boyfriends never were. He was always there by your side during your darkest times, making sure to reassure you that everything would be okay. He understood those moments that you needed by yourself, giving you time to collect your thoughts before he came back, and he also understood the moments in which you needed him more than ever, taking time out of his day to be right where you need him to be.

He let you do whatever you wanted. He wore every outfit you bought for him. He let you eat off his plate. He let you plan out your dates, letting you lead him by the hand to wherever you wanted. Even when it was something terrifying, he assured you that everything was fine as long as you were with him.

“Are you sure about this?” You ask, reaching to grab your trembling boyfriend’s hand.

“Yeah, of course,” Soobin tried to muster out with courage, failing miserably when his voice started giving out at the end of his sentence.

“We really don’t have to do this, you know,” you frown, lightly squeezing his hand. “You were the one who paid for this.”

Due to your suggestion, you and Soobin found yourself at the top of a popular bungee jump structure. You had suggested it as a joke in order to see Soobin’s reaction, knowing your boyfriend’s fear of height. Despite your initial thought, when he so confidently said yes, you figured that he had gotten over that fear. Looking at your boyfriend now, however, you had begun to realize that you had gotten it all wrong.

“I couldn’t have you paying for our date,” he says with a small chuckle, one hand clutching onto the wall and the other holding yours. “I was the one who asked you out, after all.”

“Okay,” you start, “but I was also the one who decided where to go and eat! That’s not fair to you.”

“I assure you, Y/n,” Soobin says as he looks up from the ground to meet your concerned gaze, his eyes instantly softening up as he lifts his hand gripping the wall to cup the side of your face, “I wouldn’t be up here if I didn’t want to.”

You give him a small frown, your head subconsciously leaning into his soft touch. “Are you completely, one hundred percent, totally sure, though?”

Soobin gives you an adoring smile as he brushes his thumb across your cheek. “I’m completely, one hundred percent, totally sure,” he says. “I might’ve been a little nervous, but just looking at you makes me feel at peace.”

You feel your face flush at his words. Despite it being months since you two first started dating, you found that every sweet word from Soobin was unlike anything you had heard before.

“You’re so cheesy,” you mumble back, looking away to hide your burning face.

“You know what would be more cheesy?” Soobin says with a teasing smile. “If we fell together and kissed on the way down.”

“You and your gigantic head would probably knock into mine and I’d get a concussion, no thanks,” you joke, heading towards the edge of the building.

“Fine, but just so you know, I’ll be yelling how much I love you as I jump,” Soobin huffs as he walks past you, knowing you’d be embarrassed by his large display of love.

“Don’t you dare!” you shout as you run after him.

He was a perfect mix of love and fun. He gave you so many happy memories that you wouldn’t trade for the world.

But you couldn’t help to wonder whether Soobin was lucky to have met you.

You loved him and you did your best to show it, but you wondered whether that was really enough.

You knew that you had your issues. You struggled with anxiety, feeling like you were drowning in your own head. However, ever since you met Soobin, you felt that you were now floating instead. Every time you felt like things were getting too much, your boyfriend’s gentle hug made you see things clearly again.

You were thankful for Soobin who rushed to you whenever you called, but you couldn’t help but wonder whether he was getting tired of it.

It was hard to love you. You’ve heard from both exes and friends alike that you didn’t make it easy for them. You knew that you weren’t the most open person nor the most fun, but you hadn’t ever thought of yourself as being too much to handle until you met Soobin.

Your boyfriend was caring in a way that you weren’t. The way sweet words seemed to easily roll off his tongue made you wonder why you weren’t capable of doing the same. You knew that you were in love with him, and yet you felt that you weren’t able to communicate that with him as much as you wanted. You wondered if he was growing sick of his love seemingly not being reciprocated.

Your boyfriend was social. He could walk into any classroom on your campus and someone he knew would be there. You remember the countless amount of times you were walking with Soobin in the hallway, multiple groups of people waving to your boyfriend who would merely smile back and turn to look back at you. You wondered if he was leaving behind his friends to be with you. You wondered whether you were depriving your boyfriend of living a happier life.

And of course, your boyfriend was someone you could rely on. You could go to him with all your problems and he’d always be there for both support and advice. You could lay your head on his shoulder and rant about your day, and he’d always listen to you attentively. He’d look at you with big, doe eyes that were entranced by every word you spoke. You wondered if you relied on him too much. You wondered whether you were draining the boy who loved you to the moon and back, and how long it’d take for him to realize he could be doing so much more than tending to your every need.

The more you thought about it, the more the sinking feeling in your chest would get heavier. You wondered whether you should call him as you sat on the ground next to your bed, head filled with so many anxious thoughts. You look at your phone laying nearby, practically begging you to call the number you most frequently contact. You wondered if Soobin would always be there to save you and what would happen if he wasn’t. You wondered if you could manage the feeling of water suffocating your chest.

But most importantly, you wondered whether Soobin was lucky or not.

.✫*ﾟ･ﾟ｡.☆.*｡･ﾟ✫*.

You had called Soobin again.

5 minutes after your initial call, Soobin was rushing into your apartment. The sound of the door slamming shut and bags being dropped is all that’s heard before Soobin came running into your room.

He takes a look at your sunken, tired eyes, something he’s seen countless times before and sits down next to you. His eyes search your face, frowning slightly as you do nothing but look at him.

“I feel like there’s something you have to say,” Soobin says after a minute, taking your right hand and intertwining it with his. “All you told me was to come over, so I’m a little confused.”

“I always say that,” you say with a quiet, bitter tone, looking down at your intertwined hands that fit too well with each other.

Soobin looks at you skeptically, feeling a shift in the mood he hadn’t ever felt while with you.

“Talk to me,” is all your boyfriend says, his soft voice contrasting the heavy, sad heart that you felt was weighing you down again.

“Is there anything to talk about?” you sigh, looking back up at him. “I feel like I’ve already said too much.”

“That doesn’t explain anything,” Soobin says, a frown now gracing his face. “Can you tell me what’s wrong?”

You stare at him. You take a look at his messy hair that was evidently a result of his sudden trip here, then to the tip of his lips that were curved downwards, and then to his eyes full of concern.

“The problem is that you know what’s wrong,” you mutter. “You always know what’s wrong with me and I honestly don’t know why you stay.”

“What do you mean?” Soobin says, his face showing his unsatisfied reaction to your reply.

“Why do you stay with me, Soobin?” you ask, feeling the tears well up in your eyes as you continue to tell your boyfriend the reason as to why you were once again crying on the floor of your bedroom. “I can’t be as loving as you are and I feel like I’m holding you back. I know I have a lot of problems, and I just don’t understand how you could be so okay with handling all my emotions all the time.”

“What are you talking about,” Soobin says, turning his body so that he was now facing you and forcing you to look directly at him. “You talk as if I consider you a burden, Y/n, but you’re not. You’re the person that I love.”

“I’m not doubting whether you love me or not,” you say with a bitter chuckle. “I’m just wondering why you choose to continue doing so when I know it isn’t easy. I know that I’m hard to love.”

“You’re not hard to love,” your boyfriend says with a small sigh, maintaining eye contact with you. “I know all about your past and your exes and stuff, but they’re wrong. They just didn’t know how to handle someone like you who has so much to give.”

“And what exactly do I have to give, Soobin?” you let out with a deep sigh. “You’re the one who gives me everything. You give me your time, the ability to make all the decisions in our relationship, and all of you. You give me every part of yourself so freely and I can’t do the same.”

“Don’t talk like that,” Soobin says in a serious tone, looking you straight in the eye. His eyes pierce into yours with anger. However, you notice that the anger is not directed at you, but rather at himself. “You give me the joy of being with you. You talk as if I’m letting myself be destroyed by you or something, but can’t you see that what you’re giving me is happiness?”

Soobin runs his free hand through his hair, looking down at the ground as he collects his thoughts. You watch his every moment, taking in the way his eyes flutter between your intertwined hands laying between you two and the hard ground that offers him a blank space to think things through.

“Look, Y/n,” he says after a minute of complete silence, reaching to take both of your hands and hold them in his, “Our relationship is not one-sided. I don’t know what I did to make you believe that, but it really isn’t. You’re there for me just as much as I’m there for you. Do you not how we first met? I was going to sing for the first time in public and I was shaking from how nervous I was. Do you not remember how we were complete strangers, and yet you offered me comfort despite not even knowing my name.”

You look around on the busy street, glancing between the ground and the nearby growing crowd. You wrap your coat around your body, letting out a heavy breath that becomes vapor in the air, as you walk closer to the people standing in a circle. You peek between the heads of the people in front of you and are met with a banner hanging from two trees that read “Busking with HYBE Students”.

As a HYBE student yourself, you had heard of the busking event that went down every weekend with the performers at your school. Busking was when people performed on the streets to showcase their talents and earn money, and knowing how well-known your school was for their talented students, you knew that the event drew in dozens of onlookers.

You turn to walk away from the crowd, but instead find yourself looking at a tall man who was currently trying to hide himself behind a tree. Despite your usual indifference to such things, you suddenly feel yourself walking over to the man with blue hair.

“Considering your height and your hair color, I don’t think you’re being very conspicious,” you say as you approach the man.

Said man is obviously startled by your sudden appearance, jumping as soon as he hears your voice. “Is it really that obvious?” he says after processing your comment, stuttering at the beginning.

“Let’s just say I could spot you from a mile away,” you say with a small laugh. “What are you hiding from anyways?”

“From them,” he says as he points towards the crowd you were just in a few moments ago.

“Are they all collectively bullying you or something?” you joke, scrunching your nose.

The unknown man lets out a small laugh in response, his deep dimples now visible on his face. “No, that’s not it,” he says with a sigh. “They’re here to see me perform, and maybe it’s because it’s my first time, but I’m too scared to go on.”

You tilt your head at the man in front of you who was still fidgeting with nervousness. “Why are you scared?” you ask.

“Why wouldn’t I be scared,” he replies. “Have you seen people perform here before? They’re insane.”

“But they’re also people from the same university as you,” you reply as you lean against the tree, crossing your arms. “You and the other performers were equally accepted because of your talent. You were given the opportunity to be on stage here because you’re talented.”

“Are you sure about that?” the man says as he lifts his eyebrow at you. “Because let me just tell you, there’s this guy named Yeonjun in the dance department and we are not exactly on the same level.”

“Well talking like that definitely doesn’t help your confidence,” you nag him, “and just so you know, I haven’t ever seen this Yeonjun guy before, so you’re the first performer I’m going to see here.”

“Thanks?” he says in response, clearly confused as to where you were going with this.

“I’m saying that I don’t have anyone to compare you with, meaning that to me, there’s no way that you can be worse than anybody else,” you say as you roll your eyes, smiling at the cute boy’s obliviousness.

“That’s actually sort of helpful,” the boy says with a small smile.

“Then are you ready to go up on that stage?” you ask, giving the man a reassuring smile.

He nods as he takes a deep breath in and lets it out. Before leaving, however, he turns to you and asks, “Will you stay and watch?”

You take in a small breath as you notice how the cute boy suddenly appears cuter to you, leaning down to match your height with his dimples gleaming at you. You nod quickly in response, “Yeah, I will.”

The boy only smiles brighter after hearing your promise which only causes your heart to beat faster. “Okay then, I guess I’ll see you after?” he asks.

“Yeah, you will.”

“I ended up spending the rest of that night with you walking around the streets. Do you know why I was so willing to get to know a complete stranger rather than go home? Because it was you. I wouldn’t have spent hours past midnight with someone I didn’t know if it had been anybody but you,” Soobin tells you, the anger in his eyes dissipating and being replaced by the love that he holds for you. “I understand the issues you go through, but please don’t act like you’re dropping everything on me when you’re not. I’m here for you because I want nothing more than to be by your side. You make me happy everyday just by being mine.”

“Soobin,” you start, feeling your eyes well up with tears, “I just feel like you deserve so much more than what I give you.”

“Y/n, do you not know what you already gave me?” Soobin says as he lifts his right hand to cup your face and wipe away a stray tear with his thumb. “After that night, you were at every single of my performances. You were there in the crowd even on nights I know you had to study. And because of your help the night we met, I’ve been able to continue singing and doing what I love. And that’s one of the best things you could’ve ever given me, besides the ability to love you freely and call you mine.”

You finally smile as you feel the burden being lifted off your shoulders. The heavy feeling on your chest is finally gone as you look into your boyfriend’s eyes. He looks at you with the same warm gaze he gave you the night he confessed, proving that his feelings were nothing but genuine.

“Don’t ever hesitate to tell me if you feel like this ever again, because I will always be there to prove you wrong,” Soobin says before placing a soft kiss on your forehead. “You’re not a burden or a liability, and whoever made you feel that way just couldn’t love you the way you deserved to be. Don’t ever believe that you’re hard to love.”

You smile as you jump up from your position to wrap your arms around your boyfriend’s neck, pulling him into a hug which he reciprocates by holding onto your waist. “I love you,” you whisper into his ear.

“I love you, too,” Soobin says as you two lay there, the anxious feeling in your stomach now gone and being replaced by the comfort of knowing you’re loved the way you deserve to be.

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mymoodwriting · 1 year

Text

Beyond The Stars

F!Reader x EXO

Genre: Amnesia AU, EXO Universe/Planet

Warning: Runaways, Guns, Violence, Blood, Main Character Death, Temporary Death, Poison, Trauma, Abuse, Drugs, Pills, Medication, Manipulation

Words: 6.8K

Chapter Sixteen

(Prev//Next)

Prompt: You’re the most important thing to EXO, you’ve been with them for years, and when you wind up missing, it greatly upsets them. Their journey to find you and bring you home starts a chain of events that leads to facing their own greatest fears, making unlikely allies, traveling to other worlds again and finally gathering the strength to take down their greatest enemy. Along the way you get to see their true colors and fall in love all over again, although you might come to realize you don’t like what you see in the mirror.

@suhappysuho @starillusion13

“Red Force? What the hell are you talking about?”

“Don’t play with me. I told you, traveling dimensions isn’t random, we landed here for a reason, and that reason is RF. There is something you’re not telling us, so talk.”

“I don’t-”

“Or I will make you.”

“Are you threatening me?”

“Yes. I don’t want to, but I assure you, I can follow through with it.”

Chan scoffed. “You’re talking about this Red Force as if I’d have any idea what they are or what they do. How do you expect me to answer that?”

“They’re a group bent on corrupting all of existence and tend to run all kinds of horrific experiments across different dimensions. Does that ring any bells?”

“Not particu-”

“Experiments?” Felix suddenly spoke up. “Like the ones we were a part of…”

“Felix!”

“What did you say?” Suho questioned. “You were experimented on?”

Felix hesitantly rolled up his sleeve, revealing a barcode tattoo on his wrist. Chan didn’t seem entirely happy about the revelation, but Suho could understand why. He couldn’t begin to fathom what they had gone through, or how they escaped.

“Who did this to you?”

“We were in a lab in the city of Miroh.” Chan explained. “At the time it was simply home to us, but looking back on it we can see the truth.”

“So a place in the city that runs experiments, and you’re powerless to stop them… that sounds like RF. I see why we landed here.”

“Really?”

“Despite the rather infinite universes, one is always drawn to their own. Evil like RF would seek itself out, but there is still more good in us, so we end up with someone who we shared common ground with.”

“You were experiments too?”

“A long time ago… now that we know why we came here, there will be no issue leaving.”

“Wait, what?” Taeyong spoke up. “Leave?”

“Once your people are alright, we’ll get out of here.”

“We can’t just leave them. You’ve confirmed it yourself, RF is here, aren’t you going to do something?”

“Why would we do anything?”

“So you’re just gonna keep running away?”

“I’m sorry, do you think you can take on RF? Have you forgotten that your own people were taken and tortured for a handful of days? Because of them we wound up here, and some only just recovered from being trapped in their own minds. Do you seriously think you’re in any state to take on such an enemy?”

“We can’t just-”

“RF knows who my people are. They will not hesitate to burn this world to the ground to capture us. And they’ll gladly take you as well. So let’s not make our escape for nothing.”

“You’re a coward. This group here is just a piece of RF. You took down those bastards back on my home world, but now you can’t be bothered to fight them? You keep running, and for what-”

“There used to be twelve of us!”

“… what?”

“There used to be twelve… do a headcount for me.”

“…”

“I’m not risking anymore lives, especially when one of my own needs help. Once y/n is in a better state, we’re leaving.”

“You can’t-”

“Find your own way home then.”

Without another word Suho walked off, going to find you. Taeyong was left to process, but his gaze wandered over to Chan. This was his world, and he had just been told of a greater enemy of the universe that was here. More so that they weren’t gonna get any help with it.

“He’ll come around.” Taeyong stated. “He just needs a second.”

“I won’t hold my breath.” Chan sighed. “So, you’ve dealt with these RF guys before?”

“Yeah… they were on my home world too, had their own experiments… us actually…”

“Guess that’s their thing. What’s the point though?”

“No idea. You’d have to ask someone from EXO.”

“EXO?”

“The name of the others, my group goes by NCT.”

“Ah, I see.”

“Don’t worry so much, I won’t just leave you guys to fend for yourselves. We came here for a reason.”

“What about your world though? What happened there?”

“We rebuilt. I’d say it’s like a paradise. Which is all the more reason why I want to help you. I know what it’s like to be trapped by some higher power. One shouldn’t have to live like that.”

“Kinda gotten used to things here.”

“But it can be better.”

“I suppose.”

“I’ll talk to Suho, I promise.”

♥♥♥♥♥

Despite being in a whole other world, it didn’t seem that different. You were surrounded by familiar faces, and familiar places. A whole little forest like this, you could feel Lay all around you. Although there was something off that you couldn’t quite figure it out. You weren’t going to dwell on it though. At the moment you just wanted to enjoy swimming in the pond with Chanyeol and Baekhyun. The water was actually warm like a hot tub, which was very relaxing and soothing, giving you a long overdue break.

“How are you feeling?”

Suho came over to the edge of the pond, moving the water to bring you closer to him. You offered him a big smile, taking one of the flowers and holding it out to him. He took it and reached over to pet your head.

“I’m good. This is like a nice bath, it reminds me of home.”

“We’ll be going home soon, promise. I just want everyone to be alright first.”

“I know. How is everyone?”

“They’re doing alright. Have you seen Lay?”

“He was off with Chen somewhere.”

“Alright, you stay here then.”

“Will do.”

Suho watched you go back over to the others before heading off to find Lay. Just as you said, he was with Chen, the two sitting on a rock and talking. When he had confronted Chan earlier, the two had stepped away from the others, and Taeyong had followed. He was sure they all had their questions, but he had some of his own too.

“Y/n seems to be doing well.” Suho stated. “What about the Neos?”

“I made a cleanser for them.” Lay said. “They already seem to be doing better, but some might need another one later.”

“Alright. Once they’re stable we can get out of here and go somewhere safe. From there we can take better care of y/n.”

“What’s the verdict then?” Chen questioned. “What did our host say?”

“RF is here under a different name. They were experimenting on those boys before they escaped.”

“Holy shit, really?”

“It makes sense why we landed near them. Still, when we’re good, we’re gone.”

“We’re not going to help them?”

“We’re not in a position to help anyone right now.”

♥♥♥♥♥

“Shouldn’t we let the hyungs know we’re going out?”

“As if they’d let us.”

Jeno took Renjun’s hand and pulled him along. There did seem to be a lot of tension in the air, but there wasn’t much they could do about it. So instead they opted to explore. The Jisung from this world offered to show them around the district, and how they could refuse. So the two, along with Jaemin, followed Jisung and his friend Felix out into the district. This was only the second world they had been on, so they certainly wanted to see more of it. All five of them snuck out undetected.

“So this whole district… is yours?” Renjun questioned.

“Pretty much.” Jisung confirmed. “Been our home for years now.”

“So do you guys have powers?” Felix asked. “Like the others?”

“No.” Jaemin sighed. “I mean, in theory we should get some, but nothing’s happened yet.”

“Huh… can I ask, what did you go through? You were experimented on too, weren’t you?”

“It’s honestly hazy.” Jeno said. “A blur of white and pain. I don’t know why they did any of it, or why us.”

“How did you escape?”

“We had help. EXO, they took down RF, set us free. From there everything was up to us. What about you?”

“Chan is always the one with the plan. I’m not sure when he had it all figured out, but one day he had us follow him to this bus.” Jisung explained. “From there we just drove out of hell and kept going until we found a place to call our own.”

“Sounds pretty badass.”

The group went around the district, seeing how it really was all their own. They were hiding, so it made sense to just keep to themselves, although it didn’t mean they were left alone.

“Shit, Miroh scouts.”

Jisung took Felix’s hand, running into the nearest building and heading up. The other three followed, confused and with questions. They all got to one of the upper floors, staying away from any openings.

“What’s going on?” Jaemin questioned.

“Miroh scouts.” Jisung said. “But they’re not supposed to be here.”

“Then why are they?”

“Obviously because of all of you. Usually they come through the district later on, but your arrival must have them here to investigate.”

“What do we do then?” Jeno asked.

“We need to get back to base, and we can’t get caught by them either.”

“Okay, then let’s find an opening.”

♥♥♥♥♥

“Chan!” Minho was desperately looking for their leader. “Chan, we have a situation.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Miroh scouts, they’re here.”

“What!”

Chan ran over and followed Minho over to their security system, looking over the cameras. His heart sank as he saw the Miroh scouts walking around, in rather big numbers too, and he had yet to hear the biggest issue.

“Jisung, and Felix stepped out a while ago with some of the aliens, and they’re not back yet.”

“What!”

“Is something wrong?”

Taeyong had been with Chan when the boy was suddenly called away. He followed them, knowing a problem was also something he needed to worry about.

“Some of your boys ran off with mine and they’re not back yet!”

“What? I-”

“And now there are Miroh scouts in the district. They weren’t due to come through here for another three days! Your arrival has attracted unwanted attention and caused unnecessary problems. Now find them!”

“Find them?”

“Don’t you all have powers? One of you is surely able to find them.”

“You have cameras all over this place, why are you asking me?”

“Some went down when you showed up and we haven’t been able to repair them. And given they snuck out, they surely used blind spots to avoid detection.”

“Look, we can’t just teleport around this place. We don’t know where to look and we’d tire ourselves out.”

“There has to be something you can do.”

“Aren’t all your people connected or something.” Seungmin said. “Can’t you use that to find your people and ours?”

“We’re not exactly in the best condition right now.” Taeyong explained. “Sungchan is still recovering, as is Jungwoo, and even then, we don’t know this place, we wouldn’t be able to find them either.”

“So you’re useless.” Changbin stated. “What about the others then?”

“I don’t know what they’d be able to do.”

“Only one way to find out.”

Chan and the others went off to find someone of EXO, going into the little forest area. They followed the sounds and came across a pond, seeing three individuals.

“Oh, hello there.” You saw the others and swam over. “What brings you here?”

“We need your help.”

“What can we-”

You were gonna get out of the pond to better talk to them when Baekhyun came over and pulled you back in. He wrapped his arms around you.

“What’s going on?” Baekhyun asked. “Why do you need our help?”

“My boys have gone missing, and NCT is useless here.”

“Hate to be a prick but what do you expect from us?” Chanyeol question. “This isn’t our world, we don’t know how to navigate it, and none of our own are missing.”

“Surely you can do something!”

“What’s with all the commotion?” Suho made his appearance. “What’s going on?”

“My people are missing and someone needs to do something!” Chan yelled. “You’re all just telling me you’re useless despite all this power you have.”

“Easy, how about you start by telling me what’s going on?”

“There are Miroh scouts in the district. Most likely investigating your arrival, and some of my boys are out there. If they get caught they’ll get taken back to Miroh!”

“And that’s basically RF… do you have a general idea where they are?”

“No. They snuck around avoiding cameras, and some are offline anyway.”

“Okay, you need to fix those up first. If your enemies are all over the place, we need to make sure we aren’t blind anywhere.”

“Are we safe?” DO suddenly asked, all the others having gathered around. “Or do we need to prepare for a fight?”

“No, we are safe here.” Minho assured. “This whole area is off their radar, so anyone outside is in danger, and that includes the NCT boys.”

“NCT…” Suho thought for a moment. “They’re not in the best condition right now, but perhaps we can figure something out. Kai teleports based on visuals, as long as he can visualize where he is going he can find them. Taeyong, how is Hendery?”

“He’s doing well, all things considered, why?”

“He gets visions, perhaps he can find Chan’s boys, and if Kai can get a visual on their location, we can get them back here quickly.”

“Kai isn’t connected to us, and Hendery’s never shared visions before.”

“That’s why we have Lay.”

“What?”

“I’ll explain while we get started, but firstly the cameras.”

“I’ll see if I can get Sicheng to look them over.” Taeyong said. “And I’ll get Hendery.”

“Okay.”

The plan was similar to what had been done before to help the NCT boys, but the goal was different this time. Hendery wasn’t exactly at full strength but he was sure he could do this. They had just escaped from the monster, he didn’t want his younger brothers going back there.

“Kai will go under with you.” Lay explained. “If all goes well he’ll be able to see what you see, and know where to go.”

“It won’t hurt, right?” Hendery asked.

“No, just relax.”

It was all a similar scene for Taeyong. The pond and flowers, the strange drink that leads one into a dream. Kai was already in the water, and Hendery slowly made his way in. He had been here before too, but this time he was willingly going under. Lay handed them both a drink, and once they took it had them lie down in the water. This was all really on Hendery, he knew who to reach out for, but he had never really forced a vision. For the most part they came to him on their own, in times of need or sporadically. With more practice he could probably control this better, but his powers were fairly new. For now he’d just have to trust he could do this.

Everyone would also have to wait and see if he was capable of this. Chan was the most anxious. Their security system was getting fixed, but that was no guaranteed way of finding them. This wasn’t either, but magical powers sounded like the better option over technology. He could barely even understand how any of this worked. So he waited, pacing around the pond and hoping something happened soon. He didn’t know how long it took but seeing movement in the water got his attention. He would have gone into the water if Suho hadn’t stopped him.

“Give it a second.”

Kai gasped awake, standing up in the water. Moments later Hendery seemed to wake up too, seeming far more disoriented than the other. Lay checked with him, whereas Kai was catching his breath and making his way over to the edge.

“Where are they!” Chan demanded.

“In danger.”

When Kai got out of the pond he grabbed Chan, and suddenly everything changed. They weren’t in the forest anymore, but what seemed more like an abandoned building. Chan was expecting to see his boys, but there was no one around.

“You said they were here!”

“This is where the vision led me. They’re around here. I’ll get reinforcements.”

Kai quickly disappeared, and Chan was left on his own. He started looking around, if he could scream he would, but being out here was dangerous enough. He found the nearest window, peeking out as scouts walked past. They didn’t seem to be on alert, so no one had been found yet. He still had a chance. As he had taught the others, given the district is mostly abandoned, scouts would rarely check the upper floors of any of these buildings. Chan began to look for a way up when a hand was suddenly on his shoulder. Kai had returned with a few others.

“Easy, it’s us.”

“We need to check the upper floors. I usually-”

The sounds of gunshots startled them all. There was already tension, and now Chan was afraid. He immediately ran towards the sound, jumping out the nearest window.

“Jisung! Felix!”

He didn’t care about subtlety anymore. He was afraid of losing someone. The whole point of being out here was to be together and to be free. The others followed behind, knowing things could go sideways fast. Scouts were soon on them, and opening fire. For the most part they could take care of themselves, but Chan was the one carelessly running around. They protected him, but everything was becoming so chaotic. Soon enough they realized the scouts weren’t even people but robots, making it easier to take them down.

“Hyung!”

Hearing Felix call out made Chan run all the faster, finding his boys on the run as well. He screamed to get the scouts attention, the others who had come with him soon followed. He didn’t care for his own safety, just running towards them, and then his world came crumbling down. A shot rang off and Jisung collapsed to the floor. Chan quickly fell to his knees when he reached the group, pulling Jisung into his arms.

“Jisung, Jisung! Stay awake!” Chan yelled. “Do something! You can heal him can’t you! Jisung!”

It wasn’t safe to just bring others over, not until all the scouts were dealt with. Kai brought Chen, dealing with the robots, but by then it seemed Lay couldn’t do much for the boy. Chan was screaming at them to do something, but it seemed impossible. Although amidst all the chaos Kai was just staring at the scene perplexed.

“He’s not… alive…”

Chan was screaming his lungs out, holding Jisung and begging him to wake up. Felix was also panicked, knowing that moments ago they were okay, they were both here. Taeyong couldn’t even bring himself to scold the others, more worried about the events that transpired. He felt guilty, moreso considering how he had been telling Chan about helping him out and his world. Kai though had other things on his mind, disappearing and returning with DO a moment later.

“Something is off, right?”

“How come…”

“I don’t know.”

“Chan.” Kai walked over. “Do you mind if I…”

“Huh? What! This is all your fault! If you hadn’t come to my world and messed everything up! They weren’t supposed to be out here! Scouts weren’t supposed to be here! You-”

“I don’t think he’s dead.”

“What? What fucken nonsense are you-”

“Something is wrong. Something has been off about you since we arrived. You’re all still alive with your hearts beating and he’s… he hasn’t changed…”

“Huh?”

“It’s complicated to explain. Every universe has a different frequency, a different vibration, I can tell, and that’s how I’m able to differentiate between universes. The base frequency between you, and NCT, and me is all different, that’s how I know we’re all from different worlds. Although, there are different frequencies for living and nonliving things too. You guys… your frequency doesn’t match that of the rocks or buildings around here, but…”

“But what! You think I’m understanding any of the gibberish you’re spouting right now!”

“It hasn’t changed… you and the boy you’re holding, the frequency hasn’t changed… you’re not not alive, but… I’m not entirely sure you’re living…”

“What… how does that make sense? Speak clearly!”

“He’s not dead.” DO added. “I can sense the differences between the living and nonliving as well, but your frequencies haven’t changed. It doesn’t make any sense to us either.”

“So he’s not… but how… if he’s not dead then where is he!”

“I don’t know…”

♥♥♥♥♥

Jisung gasped awake, sitting up from the bed he had been laying on. His eyes immediately scanned the room, there was nothing to see. The walls were empty and white, the room itself barren, the only thing present was himself and the bed he was on, his attention finally drawn to the only door.

“No…”

He looked down at himself, horrified by the white clothes he was in. An alarm suddenly went off and he screamed, covering his ears. It was a sound he never wanted to hear again. He fell to the floor, curling up and sobbing. This all had to be a bad dream, it couldn’t be real. He wasn’t sure how long he was crying for, he only calmed down a bit when he heard the door open. He looked over and saw Chan come in. He was relieved, getting up and running to the older boy, embracing him in a hug, burying his face in the other boy’s shirt.

“Chan, I’m so happy to see you!” He couldn’t help but start sobbing again. “What’s going on here!? Please, I’m scared! I wanna go home!”

There was no response and Jisung slowly pulled away, realizing Chan was dressed in all white as well, merely looking down at him with cold eyes.

“You’re late.”

“Chan?”

He could barely get another word in before he was dragged out of the room. His vision was blurry from the tears and he did his best to wipe them off as he stumbled behind Chan. They stopped when they came out into this balcony area, he quickly noticed the other boys standing along the wall on either side of him

“What-”

Chan grabbed his arm and scanned his barcode, Jisung wasn’t quick enough to pull away, although he held his hand close to himself afterwards. He looked around frantically, barely registering what was happening. Chan forcefully grabbed his hand again and placed a pill in his palm. Jisung just stared at it horrified for a moment before looking up at Chan, shaking his head, tears building up again.

“No… no… no I’m not-”

“Please take your medication.”

“Chan! What are you doing! What’s going on!”

“Please take your medication.”

“No!”

Jisung dropped the pill on the floor, crushing it under his foot. Tears were blurring his vision again, he desperately wanted to wake up. He ran over to Minho, shaking him, trying to get the blank look off his face.

“Minho! Minho, come on, you gotta help me!”

The other boy just looked down at him, unbothered by Jisung’s actions. Jisung tried again with Changbin but he got the same response, the others didn’t even look at him, the only one watching his outburst was Chan. He stepped away from the group, looking at the others, he was scared, but most of all it was clear he was alone in all this. He didn’t just want to leave them all behind but it seemed there was nothing he could do to help them, which meant he had no reason to stay there. Although the second he made a run for it, they all came to life, chasing after him.

He had no idea where he was going, making directional decisions as they came up without hesitation. Suddenly very scared of the people he once called friends. He thought maybe he could escape them but as he rounded a corner a hand wrapped around his arm and stopped him in his tracks, pulling him back and slamming him against a wall. Jisung found himself staring into Hyunjin’s dead eyes. He squirmed, trying to break free from the older boy’s grip only to have the others catch up and further hold him down.

“You’re hurting me!” Jisung cried out. “Let me go! What are you doing?! Stop! Let me go you guys! This isn’t funny.”

He was desperate to get away but no one was moving, the only action they had shown was chasing him down. Hyunjin took advantage of his cries for help, grabbing his face and holding his mouth open as Chan slipped a pill past his lips. He had no time to try to spit it out before his mouth was covered. He struggled furiously this time, refusing to take the stupid medicine. That is until Minho got the great idea of pinching his nose.

Jisung stared at the boy in disbelief, stopping his movements to preserve his oxygen. He knew eventually he had to breathe and to do so he’d need to swallow that damn pill. There was no winning here. If this all really had been a bad dream he would have woken up already, he closed his eyes, fresh tears falling as he swallowed the pill. Once it was done he was immediately let go, the boys walking off to who knows where.

He stayed put against the wall for a moment, a familiar dull feeling slowly overtaking him. Chan was the only one who stayed, watching him, waiting for him. Jisung wiped away his tears again, feeling defeated, then started walking the same way the others had gone, Chan right on his tail. Even if he wasn’t sleeping this was certainly a nightmare, the one place he and the others never wanted to return to, Miroh.

♥♥♥♥♥

“If Jisung isn’t dead then prove it to me!”

Getting back to the base was a dreadful experience. The other boys were speechless to discover one of their own was gone. Only to then hear about the fact that he wasn’t even alive, that none of them are by the standards of these aliens.

“How can I prove that?” Kai questioned. “It’s not like I can share my powers with you so you’d understand. The only other person who could get this besides DO and I is Taeyong.”

“I can?”

“You can teleport, being able to sense the differences between dimensions would be basic.”

“Huh…”

“This is still your fault!” Chan yelled. “You brought this shit to my world, and you have to fix it!”

“How?”

“You said he wasn’t dead…” Felix mumbled. “So if I… die… I’d follow him… right?”

“Don’t say something like that.” Hyunjin said. “You’re not going to die.”

“But we’re not really alive… are we…”

“We don’t know what’s going on. So let’s not-”

“If I were to die I could go to Jisung… so he won’t be alone.”

“That is not going to happen.” Chan stated. “We don’t know if what they’re saying is real. We have no way of knowing if what you’re suggesting would work.”

“Then what if I died… for a bit…”

“What?”

“If I die for a little while and come back… I could find Jisung, right?”

“Felix…”

“It should have been me!”

“Felix.”

Chan pulled Felix into his arms, letting the boy sob into his chest. The whole event had stressed them all out, and he couldn’t imagine how the other felt. Although he couldn’t help but think over what had been said.

“Suho.”

“Hm?”

“Is it possible… to do what Felix said?”

“You mean temporarily die?”

“Yes.”

“I… yes. Since you’re not really alive, at least that’s the theory, stopping your heart should be enough. Sehun can make sure you’re still getting oxygen to your systems, and Lay could also maintain your body. Either way you can’t be dead for long.”

“I’ll do it. If Jisung is somewhere else now, he must be alone and afraid. If I can find him and bring him back, then I’ll do anything.”

“If you’re sure about this… I’ll start the preparations.”

“Good.”

To willingly offer yourself up to death, it was a terrifying ordeal, but Chan was prepared to do it if he could help one of his own. For the last few days he had seen a lot of things, especially these weird swimming trips others had taken. Everyone had gone in and come back out, so he could only hope the same would happen to him.

“So… how does this… go…”

“It’ll be like falling asleep.” Lay explained. “No pain at all, and we’re here to make sure nothing goes wrong.”

“How long will you… how long do I have?”

“A minute, possibly less.” Suho added. “Even with us this is still dangerous.”

“I’ve seen a lot of weird things from you guys, a lot of miracles too, you haven’t fucked anything up yet.”

“I appreciate your trust.”

For some reason Chan thought the water would be ice cold, but it was quite warm and soothing. It helped put him at ease as he made his way over to Lay. When he took the bowl into his hands he stared at it for a moment, seeing his reflection in red water. He reminded himself what he was doing this for, and then drank it all down. He took a deep breath and laid back, letting his body float on the water.

“Just close your eyes, we’ll see you in a bit.”

♥♥♥♥♥

When you originally heard yelling you were concerned, but the boys told you not to worry. This world was still foreign to you, and it wasn’t a good idea to get so involved. It was something you always did. Whenever you traveled somewhere new and settled down, it was important to keep to yourselves and not draw attention. That definitely applied here, especially given how you wound up in such a place. Although when one of the inhabitants came to ask for help, you couldn’t turn a blind eye to it. Of course there wasn’t much you could do about Chan’s situation, but offer support.

You knew Chan was in good hands, but you didn’t know how the rest of this would play out. So you watched with the others, hoping something good would come out of this. They kept their promise, even if Chan’s heart stopped, he would be alright, and they only kept him under for a minute. It would always be a jarring experience for a newcomer, so when Chan opened his eyes again he was in a panic, screaming for Jisung. Two of the others rushed in to help him settle down, and got him out of the water. Once he had calmed down he explained what he saw, and what happened.

“I was back there… in Miroh… in the lab… we all were… everything was just like before…”

“How is that possible?” Seungmin questioned. “Are we… are we not…”

“Clones.” Chen concluded. “You guys are clones.”

“What?”

“It would make sense. Why you’re alive but not entirely. Although this is also a new development from RF as well…”

“How could we be clones?” Minho questioned. “We have memories and… and…”

“My guess would be some form of projected consciousness.” Baekhyun explained. “It must be part of their experiment to see how long you’d last out in the districts without worrying over your health or safety.”

“They’re not monitoring us!”

“But once you die they could look through your memories… which means they’ll look through Jisung’s memories and recognize us…”

“We can’t let that happen.” Suho said. “If RF discovers we’re here, they’ll attack, disregarding their other experiments.”

“We need to get Jisung back!” Chan yelled. “I am not leaving him in Miroh!”

“Agreed. We need to rescue him, and get you all out of Miroh.”

“I thought you weren’t going to help.” Taeyong stated. “That you can’t get involved in other world affairs.”

“Things change.”

“Yeah now that your people are in danger.”

“I’m not having this conversation with you right now. So you can stay here with your people.”

“What?”

“They’re still recovering, and too many people won’t make it easy to break in.”

“But-”

Suho pulled Taeyong aside. “I also need someone capable of watching y/n, and keeping an eye out for that thing.”

“Right…”

“Good, with that taken care of, Chan, I need you to tell me everything you know about Miroh.”

If you could help, you would, but something like this was way out of your league. The boys discussed and you left them to that, checking in with some of the NCT boys. Those that had been caught in the in between had kept to themselves a lot, and you ended up sitting by one of the boys curled up under a blanket. He senses your presence and peeked his head out a bit.

“Hi, I’m y/n. I don’t think we got to meet.”

“Jungwoo…”

“How have you been? I’ve heard stories of that place… I’m sorry you wound up there.”

“I’m fine.”

“If you want someone to talk to, I’m all ears.”

“…”

“You know it’s kinda weird, being surrounded by people who have powers. Well, I have their gifts, but it’s not power like them.”

“Gifts?”

“Simple stuff, like, higher lung capacity, thicker skin, immune to poison, lower body temp, but nothing I could really use to fight evil you know.”

“You… you don’t have wings?”

“Huh? No, I wish, that would be so cool.”

“Oh…”

“What powers do you have?”

“I… astral projection… I’m connected to all my brothers but… they were gone…”

“Hm?”

“One moment they were there… and then they all disappeared… I was all alone… and scared…”

“Are they back now? Can you feel them?”

“Yes but… what if I lose them again?”

“It wasn’t your fault, and the chances of it happening again are slim. Your brothers care about you, and wouldn’t abandon you.”

“But if it does…”

“You got tangled up in evil forces. They did this, not you or your members. You guys beat them once before, and we all did it again.”

“Evil… you mean RF?”

“Yeah. I’ve heard about them, but never really been involved. The boys keep me away and all that.”

“You don’t know…”

“Not much I’m afraid. EXO escaped from them, but they’re still hunting them down. It’s why we lay low and try not to get involved. They’re an interdimensional force, can’t really find somewhere safe to hide.”

“Why not fight then?”

“Not sure, not really something I can comment on. I’m scared too, of being alone, but I trust they’ll always come back to me. Even in a world of infinite possibilities, I trust I’ll still have them. Just like you have your brothers.”

“Thanks.”

“When everything is done here, you should all go home. Refresh before you go on and more adventures.”

Jungwoo chuckled. “That’s a good idea.”

♥♥♥♥♥

Suho knew RF hid themselves well in any world, and that required blending in. Of course the security in Miroh was standard, so breaking in wouldn’t be so difficult. The problem was just navigating a new place, and making sure not to get caught. It was so dangerous already for Suho and his people to be there, not to mention the seven others who had somewhat escaped before. The only benefit was that they had the element of surprise, but that only works once. So they couldn’t blow this. Chan had extensive knowledge of the place, but there were still too many of them to walk around undetected.

“What are we supposed to do?” Jeongin asked. “If we find our other… halves? Then what?”

“We can’t travel all together, we’ll attract attention.”

“If we’re here, why not go back now.” Changbin suggested. “Like, back to our bodies.”

“It could be dangerous to do that.” Chanyeol said. “We’re not sure what will happen to you.”

“We’re mostly kept in a numb state.” Chan explained. “But I was out of it when I returned, if we all go back at the same time, we’d only need to get Jisung.”

“You’ll end up somewhere we don’t know, how can we find you and get you out?”

“Cause a distraction then. This place can’t be allowed to continue with whatever it’s doing. Not when we have a chance to destroy it, not when there could be so many others like us out there.”

“I see your point.” Suho said. “Alright, Chen, on my mark, you cut the power. That’ll send this whole place into high alert, and we destroy it from the inside out.”

“Got it.”

“First then, we get Chan and his boys reunited with their missing member.”

Death wasn’t something they usually dealt with, but of course they had the means necessary. Lay bloomed a flower in his hands, a black one, handing each of the boys a pedal. He assured them it would feel like falling asleep, and the proceeded without hesitation. After a moment Suho gave the order, and they commenced with the plan. At some point they’d surely run into Chan and the others, until then, they should help those in need. This wasn’t their first time raiding an RF lab, seeing all the innocent people they had trapped, and it wouldn’t be the last. The security was at least easy to deal with as most of it seemed to be similar to those robots from before, and soon enough they ran into familiar faces.

“You certainly give off a different frequency now.” Kai assured. “I’m glad you’re alright.”

“Same.”

Even with all the chaos, it wasn’t entirely their place to clean up, as long as people were safe. The boys of this world were quite content with seeing their previous hell burned to the ground, and knowing they were truly free. Together they returned back to District 9. You had been so worried about them, so upon returning you ran into Xiumin’s arms. He assured you everything had gone well, and that you would be going home soon. Of course that wasn’t entirely the case, as Taeyong needed to speak with Suho about that.

“How was she?”

“Alright. Just some small talk, nothing to worry about.”

“Good.”

“So you’re just gonna leave now?”

“We can’t be messing around with another world.”

“What about mine?”

“I think you’re not remembering things properly.”

“Huh?”

“We took down RF in your world, but the rest was all you. Rebuilding, making it safer, all that was you guys, we had nothing to do with that. Stopping RF is as far as we can meddle. What happens next is up to the inhabitants of this world.”

“I see…”

“Do you think your guys are ready to go?”

“Yeah, yeah I think so.”

“Mind if I have a word before then?” Chan questioned. “I should thank you.”

“I also need to apologize.” Suho added. “We brought a lot of trouble to your home, even if we didn’t mean to.”

“You’ve also helped a lot. In ways I didn’t even know.”

“I suppose. Although we can offer much more.”

“I overheard, and I understood. You’re just otherworldly visitors, but what you’ve done is enough, for me at least.”

“I’m glad to know we can leave you all in a good place. I’ll make sure your little forest maintains itself well once we’re gone.”

“That would be great.”

You kinda wished you could stay, get to know them and this place some more, but you never supposed to come here. Just a quick stop. You enjoyed a bit of the forest before you left. You were with Lay as he made sure nature became one with the world, partially feeling his presence leave the plants and trees around.

“You’re sure this will be safe, right?” Doyoung questioned. “No unexpected stops?”

“Everything should be fine, but there’s actually somewhere we can stop by first.” Suho said. “A safe place to make sure you all can get home smoothly.”

You said your goodbyes, hoping that maybe some time in the future your paths would cross again. Then you joined the others, ready for another big interdimensional jump, holding Kai and Lay’s hand. Of course some of the NCT boys were nervous, but you knew things would work out in the end no matter what. Kai counted down for everyone and you closed your eyes, feeling the world shift around you. Things got noticeably quieter and you slowly opened your eyes, taking in your new surroundings.

“Where are we?” Kun asked. “This isn’t Neo city…”

“A quick stop to make sure our inter dimensional travel wouldn’t be tainted again.” DO explained. “Everyone alright?”

No one was unconscious this time, only suffering from some minor dizziness. You looked around with excitement, not recognizing your surroundings at all. Everything seemed to be made of wood, barrels and hammocks all over the place. Then you heard the wood creak from above, looking up. You could hear footsteps, realizing you weren’t alone.

“Suho, where are we?”

“Aboard Destiny.”

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fantasies-fairytales-n-fics · 2 years

Text

Thranduil and Josie- Pt. 114- Cold as Ice

Summary: An old friend is spotted but his presence is unclear. Josie deals with multiple unwanted feelings. Another storm is about, but it's no regular storm. A dream leaves Josie detrimentally cold. Legolas to the rescue. They are both caught in a rather compromising situation. Josie makes a drastic change that leaves Legolas heartbroken. A gift bearing visitor arrives. Narcisse makes a bold move and feels the aftermath. Garrett has had enough.

*Warnings* Language, angst, mild violence

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist

You and Legolas reached the back of Narcisse's castle at an abandoned wing that looked like it had been through quite a few battles. There was a sharp flutter with two caws as your old feathered friend took flight from the broken structure.

'Wait! Come back! Why have you come??" you shouted but the crow disappeared into the foggy sky as if he were on some important mission.

"Legolas? Why would he not stay? He was obviously here for a reason."

"Maybe he also knows of the danger and is just watching over you?"

"Maybe...but...why fly away when he saw me? He's headed North...towards Mirkwood."

"Then maybe we should go back like I have been pleading with you to do."

"I..I can't think about that right now. I need to go to my daughter."

You raced off around the castle and up to your chambers, coming to a shocking halt to find Haldir sitting on the bed, leaning on the backboard and holding Leean, both fast asleep.

Your heart raced with such love for the pair and went to softly sit beside the Marchwarden, stroking his cheek.

He startled awake at your touch.

"Hey, it's ok, It's just me. Looks like Leean wore you out." you giggled.

"Jo...where the hell have you been?" he passionately whispered.

"I..I was with....Narcisse? Legolas was supposed to tell you."

You turned to the prince who's face had a million sorries all over it.

"Josie, I felt it more imperitive to come find you. Please forgive me."

You sweetly smiled at him. "It's ok Legolas. I am not angry with you." you assured him as you both stared at each other for a moment, both recalling the almost kiss....which could never happen again....at least that's how you felt. Now you knew you definitely could not go back to Mirkwood with Legolas, at least not yet anyways. You just weren't ready to face all the memories of your beloved King.

"Is...everything alright? You and Legolas seem tense." Haldir asked as he immediately noticed the awkward look between the two of you.

"Yes...everything is fine. Just some issues with Stephane, nothing I cannot handle....Haldir, we were on our way back here and...Jareth's flock of spies came out of the Northwest...and then, my crow was here but he took off in the direction of Mirkwood and I don't know why....and my father is missing and..."

Haldir placed his hand on your face to try and calm you. His touch was more sufficient than his mind control with you. You closed your eyes and let out a deep sigh of relief, then smiled and placed your hand over his.

"Thank you Haldir. It seems you're the only one who can keep me grounded anymore."

Legolas cleared his throat.

"Of course you too Leggy, I just meant by his powers."

Now Haldir cleared his throat.

You chuckled and kissed Haldir on the cheek. "You know I didn't mean that your magic was the only reason. You're my best friend. I need you. I need you both..." you said and turned back to a somber Legolas.

"I will go gather you some food my lady. You did not eat this morning." the prince softly said and left.

"Legolas...wait..."

"Jo..are you sure everything is alright?"

You sighed and whispered. "I hope so. Do you mind if I hold my daughter?"

"Jo...you do not have to ask to hold your own child....although I would be so inclined to not ever give her back if I did not have to." Haldir smiled so lovingly down at her. Something about that moment told you that you and Leean would be ok. You and she had the best family one could ever dream of, and they would lay their lives on the line for the both of you.

"I need to feed her. Would you mind maybe joining Legolas for a little while?"

"Of course Jo. I will see you soon." He kissed your forehead as he handed you Leean, then exited.

You went out to the balcony and rocked her for a bit as she was still sleeping. All you could do was stare at her, seeing Thranduil in every feature of her angelic little face. Maybe she had your nose and ears, you thought, but she definitely had his lustrous moonstone eyes and perfect pouty lips.

As you then gazed out into the open acres of land, your mind wandered to Narcisse. What the hell was his problem anyways? One moment, he was the kindest sweetest man, and the next, he became the arrogant asshole you first met. You were still quite furious with him, but you were sure he was with you as well after holding a weapon on him, especially on his own lands. But he had threatened Legolas and that was a huge hell no in your eyes....and the way he had spoke of Thranduil was just plain cruel. Did he do it intentionally because he was angry at you for what you did? He did try to immediately apologize.....then your thoughts drifted to the sound of his voice against your ear as he had aided you in firing the arrow....and how your body had reacted to him....and now you were just more pissed off....at yourself for feeling whatever the hell it was you were feeling towards this back and forth warlock, and planned to avoid him like the plague the best that you could, although you knew he had been watching you, for you could smell him nearby at times. Maybe Legolas was right. Maybe it was best if you all left.

A crack of thunder sounded in the distance, startling you and Leean both. Then the rain began, so you went inside and sat down to feed her now that she was anxiously awake.

"Rise and shine my magical miraculous little one. Mommy is here."

As you fed her, you silently sobbed. "Thranduil...wherever you are in the afterlife, I hope you can still hear me, feel me....for all I have left now is the whispers of your voice in my heart...and a love that will never die. Sometimes, I almost believe the whispers are real, and then reality sets in, destroying every glimmer of hope I have left. My mind knows that you are gone, but my heart struggles to believe it. It wasn't supposed to be this way my King. You weren't supposed to leave me. My powers, they're gone too. I thought it was my grief, blocking them, but now I realize it's because you are gone. You were the one that first brought them out in me....I am nothing now...nothing without you."

Suddenly, the rain turned to large clumps of snow, plummeting from the sky as the wind picked up. You laid Leean back in her cradle and opened the balcony doors, staring at the monstrosity coming from the Northwest. The sky had turned to a blustery darkness and the air was bitingly cold. Quickly, you shut and locked the doors and began to pace in a panic. Narcisse would have known and alerted all of you before hand of an oncoming storm....and the timing and rapid onset was too coincidental. This was Jareth's doing to keep you here...or at least you believed so....You wanted to scream at him over and over until you were blue in the face that you didn't know where that damn book was, nor did you care now that you knew what it could truly do...but something told you Jareth believed you did know somehow, or...or, that if you were near it, it would surface...and Jareth would know if the book had been unlocked, that only a witch could do. Legolas had been right all along, when he had said the eye of the enemy is moving.

One week later.- Nov. 16

You awoke from a terrifying dream in the middle of the night, freezing just like you had been when you traveled to Lestat's fortress on top of the mountain. There was a shadow on the other side of the frosted glass balcony doors, and then a woman appeared dressed and glowing in all white. At first, you thought it was Thranduil's mother, but then you remembered that she had red hair. This woman's flowing strands were as blinding white as the snow covered earth outside. Her eyes were of blue ice that held pure evil in them. Her gaze held you frozen, staring at her as she began to speak.

"Why do you keep running away?"

"You're very powerful. I can see it in your eyes.... and you're family. Join us. You and the child."

"W...w..who are you??"

Her voice made you nauseous and you began to shiver uncontrollably.

"My dear, you do not recognize your own grandmother?"

You gasped and gulped.

"Y...y...you're.....J...Jadis?"

"The one and only. Come, I can take you with me to where you belong. To where you have always belonged."

She blew a kiss from her fingertips and then reached out her hand, pushing it through the glass as if it were softened butter.

You couldn't move as she gripped your right arm, literally freezing you to your core. It was a coldness like no other, nothing of that like a vampire's. It was like falling into the black Rhun all over again leaving you dazed and confused. Her lusterless and emotionless dark eyes were fixated on you. You were trapped.

Until the glass began to crack. She withdrew her hand and her eyes and head rolled back... then, it was like she had been inside a giant block of ice as it exploded. The burst took your breath away and knocked you backwards.

When you hit the ground, for a split second, you thought you saw someone standing behind her holding their fist up. You woke up in your bed, gasping and shivering something fierce. Quickly grabbing a blanket, you wrapped it snuggly around you and and rushed to the still standing balcony doors. There was nothing but solid frost on the glass with no visibility to the outside. You had never seen a winter storm like this one. It was by far 100 times worse than the one on Lestat's mountain, for it was an ice storm and it had been going on for 7 days straight now. You couldn't leave if you had wanted to...and you had wanted to, last week. Jareth didn't want you in the protection of Thranduil's halls and that was now quite evident....but what wasn't ...was, what did Jadis want with you? You didn't buy the family bullshit one bit. It was the book. It's always been about the book that held every spell in the world, good and evil. Your dad had told you Ashmole had been in her possession once which is how he had become aware of it and it's powers, in which he ignorantly raised Jareth from the dead.....so she must believe the book belongs to her. Maybe it did. Surely it must have a rightful owner.

You creaked open the doors about an inch just to see out but you couldn't see anything but a complete whiteout and ice all over the balcony. As you closed the door, you had a memory flash of a face. The person with the single fist...he broke her power. There was only one type of person with that kind of superhuman strength. Garrett. It was him.....you'd know those red eyes anywhere...and you could really use Garrett's fiery warmth right now, like when he saved you from the sea of death. Where the hell had he been for two weeks? And your father too, he was still not here.

Legolas was asleep on the couch and Haldir had taken his own chamber just down the hall since he was of no help fending off your dreams for some unknown reason. You tiptoed over to Legolas and nudged his hand. Your ice cold fingers startled him awake.

"L...Le...Legolas." you said through chattering teeth. "I...I can't....get...warm."

He got up and rubbed your arms vigorously.

"My lady, you are so cold and your lips are blue. My god, have you been on the balcony??"

"N...n..no. L..Legol..las...h...help...m...m...me."

You fell into his arms and almost passed out.

"Josie, no. Stay awake. You are.... somehow hypothermic."

He steadied you and immediately began taking his clothes off.

"L..Lego...las...w..what are..you..d..doing??"

"I am going to warm you with my body heat. Stand in front of the fireplace and take off your night dress."

"W..what? L..Legolas...I.."

"Josie, just...for once in your life, do as your told." he snapped, shocking you at his bluntness.

"O...o..ok..."

Your hands were so cold, you couldn't move them to complete his request....and you began to cry in frustration and disorientation.

"Do not cry my lady. I am sorry I was so harsh. Let me help you. I will take care of you." Legolas compassionately said as he stood shirtless at 3:15 in the morning, wearing nothing but a cloth garment that extended to his knee caps. Needless to say, it was quite shocking, and more so awkward to see him in a way you had never seen him before. Completely bare, and not just physically. It was written all over his face at how vulnerable he felt in that moment. You had to wonder why? He was beautiful....and you would probably never look at him the same way again after this majestic vision.

Trying to humor you in both of your nervous states, but mostly to distract you from your physical grief, the flawlessly toned elf cracked a joke.

"Apologies...I am nothing of the frolicking Narcisse or Haldir with my clothing off."

"Le...Legolas...st.st...st....stop. I...I..am having enough t...t.trouble f...f..focusing as it is."

Legolas grinned at your comment hoping it meant you were distracted by his entirely bare torso.

"Apologies again....bad joke. Quickly, let me help you undress. I do not know how you have ended up in this predicament, but you need to get warm."

"Le..Legolas...I...I can't..."

"It is alright. Turn around. I will undo the button for you."

"N..no...That's..n..not what I ...m....m...mean. Oh m..my god.. J...Just...kiss...kiss me...like you d...dd.id in the forest t...to warm...m...me."

Legolas was taken aback. "I...I did not kiss you my lady. I merely breathed my warm breath into you because you were not breathing."

"I...I remember it. Your lips were on....m...mine....and it was definitely a kiss."

"You could not possibly recall that. You were hypothermic like you are now and even unconscious. That and this is affecting your thoughts. Now, turn around." he firmly ordered.

He whipped you around, causing you to gasp, and took the blanket off of you, holding it up behind you so he could not see you.

"I am not going to kiss you. Take off your gown and I will wrap the blanket around you, then we can lay in the bed against each other. I will not place my eyes where they should not be."

You huffed and reluctantly did as he said. Your night gown flowed to your feet and he swiftly covered you with the blanket. "And I suppose I did not hear what you said to me either?"

"Josie, we already had this conversation on the boat....and I would rather not speak of it again.....Now...was this so difficult? Come on. Climb in and get under the other blankets. Once I am in beside you, you can remove this one and I will keep my eyes closed."

Legolas was trying so hard to avoid admitting what he had told you...that he loved you and then just hours ago, he had almost kissed you again, and all that didn't help the fact that you would be laying completely naked against him....

You blocked it all out and got under all the other covers, facing away from him as he slid in behind you. You froze solid, even more so than you already were when he removed your security blanket and you felt his warm and firm bare skin against your back. ALL of him. He must of removed his garment before he climbed in. He then laid his strong arm over top of yours, curling you up tight and pushed his thigh up against the back of your leg, molding his body into your fetal position.

"Relax Josie. Take in my warmth and close your eyes."

You gulped and were nonplussed at his innocent comment. How could you think something so dirty at a time like this? Your mind had become unhinged from the hypothermia is what you told yourself.

He bent his arm enough so that he could place your loose hair behind your ear and laid his cheek on yours. You hadn't been this close to anyone in so long...and it felt ridiculously nice. Immediately, your shivering started to subside as his heat radiated through you.

"Legolas?"

"Hmmm." he mumbled as he closed his eyes.

"I...I would like it if you called me Jo too."

His eyes popped open with a raised brow as he held his cheek to yours, completely still.

"I prefer Josie. Try to sleep. You are safe now."

"Mmmm k..." you muttered in a faint whisper. "By the way...it was a kiss."

Legolas softly grinned and closed his eyes again. "Go to sleep my lady."

After a few hours, Legolas' body heat became overbearing combined with the fireplace, not to mention your arm was throbbing where Jadis had grabbed it.

How was this all possible from a dream? Just like the one with Jareth. Had she really been here too? Was Garrett???? Did he....see you and Legolas?? You sat up anxiously holding your arm, trying to contain an oncoming panic attack. You glanced down at the peacefully sleeping prince, now laying on his back uncovered down to his waist, in which you had forgotten all about you both being in the buff. You peeked over him at Leeanduil who was also sound asleep at his side in her cradle and you began to relax. You gently laid back down as to not disturb Legolas and suffered through your pain until you finally drifted off back to sleep.

A knock sounded on the door but all you heard was the fast punding rhythm of Legolas' heart as you laid upon his chest where you somehow ended up during your sound slumber....and somehow, his arm was draped over you, softly holding you there. The knock became quicker and harder, and then you heard the door click open.

Gasping, you covered your chest and sat up to see Haldir flustered and misled at what he was witnessing.

"Hal...Haldir! I...I can expl..."

"Apologies. When there was no answer, I became worried. As I can see, there was no need to be." he snapped and stormed out.

"Damn it...Haldir wait!" you shouted as the door slammed shut.

Legolas was sitting up behind you a bit flustered himself, viewing the bare of your back before him.

Leean began to fuss so you wrapped yourself up in a sheet and went to her.

"Legolas...can you please go after Haldir and try to explain what he saw while I tend to her?"

"I...I will do my best. Are...are you feeling better now...Josie?"

It was quite hard to look him in the eyes now.

"Yes...thank you...for all that you did. But...I think from now on, you should have your own chambers. The one across the hall is empty according to Narcisse, so you will not be far. I will have Lola, the midwife take residency with me so I am not alone."

Lola, a young girl about your age with long curly brown hair, had been one of those that had assisted in Leean's birth and had been helping out with you and her ever since, so you trusted her completely as she had been so very wonderful and supportive.

Legolas lowered his eyes, devastated by your request. He covered himself and gathered his garments, then proceeded to the wash room without a word.

You put your nightgown back on while he was away and sat down with Leean on the bed to feed her, peering down at the spot where Legolas and you had just been and sighed. You could smell his minty scent all over you.

You planned to summon for Lola so you could go find Narcisse and speak to him about your dream. If anyone knew about your father's mother, it would be him.

Legolas returned fully dressed with his hair still a bit damp from his bath.

"I will go now and try to locate Haldir, and send Lola to you if that will help."

"Legolas...wait. Can we...talk...later?"

He simply nodded and left with his head lowered. You had unintentionally hurt him and that hurt you...immensely.

Lola came in about 15 minutes later and you were dressed and ready to go.

"My lady, you have requested to see me?"

"Yes Lola. Thank you for coming so quickly. I would like to ask you if you could stay with Leean while I run a few errands? and then also, would you mind possibly moving your things here and staying with us for the remainder of our stay? It would greatly help me out and I know how much you adore Leean, as she does you."

The blue eyed girl formed a large smile. "My lady, oh...I..I would be more than happy to accept your request."

"Good. It is settled then except...please...just call me Josie."

She bashfully grinned. "Certainly my la...Josie. As you wish."

You instantly thought of Legolas and how you had asked him to call you Jo, but he still did not...and you wondered why.

Off you went to wander the halls since you had no idea if Narcisse was even in the castle. For all you knew, he was at his home away from home as he called it, and you could not go out in this weather for that. But somehow, you had a gut feeling that he was here, since you had smelled his peppermint scent on and off throughout the past week. At least your intuition and senses were still in tact.

You found yourself in a rather exquisite and very large room that appeared it may be used for extravagant parties. It reminded you of Thranduil's art room so you decided to look around it a bit.

The fireplace was like no other, carved out of marble with a lion on each end. It was so massive that you could almost walk right into it. You were grazing your hand over the detailed features when you suddenly smelled a most familiar and missed scent. Black licorice and leather. You about crawled out of your skin when you saw Lestat appear from around the corner.

"Boo." he said as he grinned and walk up to you in his usual alluring way.

All you could do was stare at him as your eyes teared up and mumble.

"Boo...back."

Then you flung your arms around him causing his body to stiffen and his eyes to widen. He certainly did not expect this reaction from you and he honestly could not remember the last time he had ever shared a hug with anyone....or that anyone had ever been happy to see him for that matter, but only frightened by his presence. He slowly laid his hands on your back, scared to embrace you fully.

"Lestat...my god. Where have you been? You are a most needed sight for sore eyes. I thought I would never see you again and that you blamed me for the destruction of your castle. I...I am so sorry!" you whispered against his cold ear.

To hear you say he was needed brought out feelings in him he did not know he was even capable of experiencing anymore.

You then let him go. "And...Marius, Mara, Armand...where are they? I have missed you all something awful and was worried about you."

"You...one of the most beautiful creatures I have ever laid eyes upon, was worried about someone such as I...a cold blooded heartless killer." he playfully smirked. "Well...I in fact have been worried about you as well, that is why I am here...among other reasons. I hear you have a new daughter now? Congratulations. I also offer you my condolences. I am very sorry about your King. I must tell you, I have never held you responsible for what happened. That is solely on Jareth and his unfathomable mate. They will both pay dearly when the time is right. To answer your other questions, Marius is well and Maharet and Armand have returned to the castle Corvinus, as are Selene and Michael. Maharet sends her love. She did not want to cause any added trouble for you by entering Narcisse's lands."

"But...you have."

Lestat chuckled. "Of course I did. Since when have you known me to abide by anyone's rules. I live by my own and nothing more."

You also laughed through your tears. "That certainly is the truth. I really have missed you, you know? Crazy to think, that when we first met, you despised my presence and I was so intimidated by you...and look at us now."

"I think it was the other way around." he grinned softly and raised his chilled hand to your face, gently wiping your tears.

"I highly doubt you were intimidated by me Lestat. You expect me to believe that? You of all vampires are not intimidated by anyone."

"Ahhh, but you, Josie, are not just anyone, now are you. Have you forgotten our talk together? I explained all of that to you."

"No...I have not forgotten. I know, my blood is nothing you crave which has never happened to you. It is the same for Garrett. Why?"

"I usually have the answers for most things, but that, I do not. Just another reason I am drawn to you....for I can read anyone...but not you." he said as he lightly rubbed your arm.

His touch, as always, sent chills through your veins, but in a rather good way.

"Well, for the record. I have never despised your presence and I am beyond elated that you are here. You...you said you had other reasons you are here?"

"Yes. I am. After the fire diminished, Marius and I went through the remnants to see if anything was salvageable. The room you had resided in was strangely not harmed and I had found three things of yours I thought you might like to have."

He walked over to a table and opened a small box.

"Come." he said as he glanced at you with a smile.

First, he handed you your moonstone dreamcatcher.

Your eyes lit up like the sun. "Oh my god!! Lestat!! You..you have no idea what this means to me. Haldir, he will be so happy to see this!"

That is if he ever spoke to you again after what he walked in on. The thought of that made your stomach ache.

"Oh, I think I do, that is why I brought it to you. And here..."

He then handed you the black spell book Garrett had rescued from the fire place in Lestat's library.

"Oh wow...I...I had forgotten about this. I wonder if it will be of any use to me now that my powers have vanished."

"Josie, you're grieving. I have seen it many times with others. I myself have suffered from grief and lost some of my capabilities in the process. You will regain them when the time is right, but a time frame is unknown, for it varies for all. I had to wonder about that because of this storm. Are you not able to control the weather?"

"Well...I was able to. Believe me, if I could stop all this, I would. Speaking of, how in the world did you make it here in this?"

The confident vampire chortled. "Josie...have you also forgotten what I am? Weather does not affect me nor my vision. I am soulfully wounded by your lack of faith in my abilities."

"Ha...ha. You know I didn't mean it that way silly."

Lestat grinned and then pulled out the last remaining item in the box. It was the Bon Jovi album you snatched from Garrett's room. You took it from him and just gaped at it in sadness, remembering that brief but amazing time you got to spend with him. A time when he opened up that beautiful broken human heart of his and finally spilled his life story to you that he tried so evasively to keep hidden from you. A time when you first witnessed a vampire cry.

"Lestat....I have no words. This...this has a more sentimental meaning to me. I am sure Narcisse has a phonograph around here somewhere. This will be very nice to listen to. Thank you, so much!"

You hugged him again and this time, gave him a kiss on the cheek in which he gasped and swiftly pulled away from you....just like he had done in his room when you had gotten to close for comfort with him. Lestat wasn't a touchy feely kind of vampire and you had forgotten that since Garrett was all hands on deck with you.

"I...I...I'm sorry?' you squeaked and stepped back in panic, in which he highly noticed your fear.

"No...do not be...I did not mean to frighten you. Surely you must know by now, I would never harm you. You, just caught me off guard."

"Well, still. I shouldn't have done that...I need to remember that not all vampires are alike...and yes, I do know you would not hurt me, you just startled me, that's all."

"I am going to go now. I do not want to overstay my welcome and alert Narcisse to my presence. Not that I fear him, but for the same reasons Maharet has steered clear of here." he explained and put on his trench coat.

"Will...will I see you again?" you whimpered with saddened eyes.

He smirked as he walked up to you and grazed your cheek with his icy fingertips while studying your face, then moved away as it had become too close for comfort for him.

"I think you know the answer to your own question. Take care sweet Josephine."

And then poof, he was gone.

'Wait! Lestat, what does that mean???!"

He didn't come back and you sat down, releasing a waterfall of tears. What did take care mean? Was he never going to come back again? You began looking over the record and opened the sleeve to make sure it wasn't damaged, then noticed something inside. As you pulled it out, it was a 45 record with a song title of "Like a Vampire." You tilted your head at this because you knew it was not in there when you had taken the Bon Jovi record out to play it at Garrett's that night. Did Garrett know you would take it and slip this in there? It wouldn't have surprised you any because Garrett seemed to know you so well. You didn't recognize the song and had no idea how you were going to play it, so you dried your eyes and went off in another search for a phonograph.

As you walked through the halls, your instincts kicked in again and realized you were being followed...and you knew by who because you could smell his potent scent. Narcisse. You got to a turn and waited around the corner with a wicked smirk to catch him red handed.

When he was right where you wanted him, you popped out, giving him a satisfying startle.

"Lady Josephine....always a delight." he bowed and smiled nonchalantly.

"Why are you following me and do not bother denying it because I know that you were and have been for the past week or have you forgotten my ability to smell a dog? I have noticed you like games, so what game are you trying to play with me?? There are many women here, beautiful ones at that I have seen, and yet you follow me around like a puppy. Why me?"

He suddenly became all serious as if he actually cared about you.

"You know...you make me do things I would not do otherwise, but you are an adversary to Thranduil, and he is not only the father of my child, he is my King, even if he is no longer here. So you and I, we cannot continue...."

He cut you right off with a kiss, pushing you up against the wall.

and for a few seconds, you let him. It felt good and he...tasted good as you kissed him back. His lips were so supple and you liked the feel of his beard against your skin.

But then you became enraged that he would be so bold, so you pushed him away and slapped him square across the face.

"Do not seek to take before I give." you huffed and walked away.

Narcisse smiled through his shock and hit to his ego, commenting as you disappeared around the corner while you glanced back at him with a sneer for his remark. "I am glad to hear you are thinking of giving."

So now, you were at the other end of the castle, marching through it in your fury, until you passed an open doorway with a glance inside. You immediately halted and stepped back to take another look as you then saw what you were in search of. A phonograph.

You crept in to find the room unoccupied and bee lined for the player, taking the record out and placing it on the table. You gave the handle a few good turns and placed the needle on the record, then sat down to listen.

As the lyrics began to resonate with you, memories of you and Garrett played like a movie in your mind.

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When the song ended, your emotions were on overload. Garrett had found a way to admit his feelings without having to tell you, because that was the one thing he sucked at, pun intended as you lightly giggled to yourself, thinking that would have been a joke he would have made.

You sighed and placed your head in your hands, then suddenly there was tapping on the balcony doors. You sprung up to your feet panting in fear. Did Lestat come back? You slowly made your way to the doors and stood staring at them since you couldn't see through the frost.

"Josephine. I can see you."

Your smile reached ear to ear as you swiftly unlocked and opened the doors to see Garrett. You yanked him inside and shut the doors.

"Garrett Lee, where have you been??"

"I've been around. I just didn't want to cause you more grief after Narcisse's blow up at you over me being here two weeks ago.....I see, somehow you have retrieved my record that you took.....and found the secret ingredient I added to it. I honestly thought it would have been destroyed in the fire, but then I could hear the song playing from outside, not to mention, I saw Lestat leaving....so I thought I could squeeze in a little time with your busy schedule."

His demeanor was off. Something was wrong. As he knew you so well, you knew him too.

"Garrett, you don't need to squeeze into my time. Lestat found this in my room that had not been burnt to ash, amazingly....oh! and look...he found the book you fetched out of the fireplace that night in the library. Although I don't know what good it will do me now since I have no powers."

He walked around the room as if he were in another world.

"Hey? What's going on with you? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine Josie."

"Ok...now I know something's up because you do not call me Josie. Garrett....what is wrong? Are you upset about Lestat being here? orrrrr....did something happen since I last saw you?? Garrett...talk to me." you pleaded as you took his hand, in which he pulled it away and just stared at you.

"Ok? Garrett, what the hell? Have I done something wrong?"

"NO....Josephine." he sarcastically barked and walked away from your interrogation.

"Garrett? What the fuck? Why are you so angry?"

"Oh I'm not angry. You should know that because you have seen me angry."

"Ok, well you could have fooled me? Is this something to do with my dream? I...I saw you in it....you...you saved me from Jadis....were you really there?"

"Yep...as I said, I have been around."

"Jesus Garrett, will you just tell me what is happening right now? Was she really here then? Like Jareth was? Because my arm is killing me."

"Well, why don't you ask Legolas to heal it for you?"

His tone was harsh and filled with jealousy. Then it hit you, he just seen you through the completely frosted over doors that you could not see a thing through, just like last night.

"You...you were here last night, weren't you? WAS Jadis here? Did you really see her?"

"I saw plenty.....She was in your dreams, just as you said and I sent her away."

"How...how were you able to get into my dream?"

"Well for one thing, as you said, your powers are gone, so your shield is not up...but...I do not even need that, for my blood is still in you and always will be. I have full access to your mind whenever I please....thing is...I haven't done it because I am not that person anymore...but after what happened with Narcisse, I did...to make sure you were alright since I didn't want to come here again and have him on your case once more. Crazy huh? That dreamcatcher sitting over there on the table...you don't even need that because I could have kept all the bad dreams away for you....but I am not welcome here....or anywhere in your life for that matter. It seems you have all you need here so I came to say goodbye."

"Whoa...wait...what? Goodbye?? You promised! You promised me you would never leave me again! I am coming to realize that you saw more than just Jadis...but what you think you saw, you did not."

"So...you're telling me I am blind as a bat.....huge pun intended."

"Garrett....I was freezing to death, literally. Legolas did what he had to do to warm me up....and for your information, I had actually wished you were here to do it for me! and...and...what reason or right do you have anyways to be so angry about it???"

"You know what? You're absolutely right. I have no right whatsoever....but that don't change or stop how I feel about you.....fuck! I need to go."

"Garrett, NO! Don't you do this to me, not now...not ever!" you pleaded as you grabbed his hand.

"Josephine...think about it...clearly. What place do I have...or have I ever had in your life? I don't belong in your world and I never will. Thranduil...he's gone and I know you will never get over that or him...and god I am so sorry that you are in such pain. If I could take it away, I would...but...I am in pain too and I can't do this anymore. I need to move on with my pointless existence and deal with what I have known all along, but refused to see.....stupidly thinking you could ever love me..."

Tears were pouring out of your eyes as he looked anywhere but in them.

"Keep the records. I don't want them. I realize that it was all innocent with Legolas, but he is in love with you Josephine. He can make you happy someday if you let him. Forget about me." he said as he turned to leave.

"Don't you do this Roman!! Don't you leave me too..."

Garrett stopped with his hands on the door handle and lowered his head. His own tears were forming and he was not going to let you see that again. He opened the doors....and you quickly grabbed him from behind, thrusting your arms around his waist and locking your hands together.

He was too strong. Garrett unclasped your hands and turned just enough that you could see his profile....and you saw his eye, gleaming with water.

"That's not my name." he whispered....and then he was just gone.

@redeemer46

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