worldserasingandcreatinginmymind

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Hunger | Part Three

Summary: waking up in a dungeon full of vampires with no memory and a sudden hunger for blood… never should have accepted that drink from the pale elf in the tavern.

Pairing: Astarion x Reader, platonic Sebastian x reader

Word Count: 2.3k

Warnings: the angstiest part yet, reader is starving herself, mentions of torture and blood and death… Cazador is a walking trigger warning lets be honest.

Author Notes: Hope you enjoy! as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

Part Three | Masterlist

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

“Who is he?” a person stood next to Astarion asks, nodding toward Sebastian.

“It’s not just him – I know so many of these faces.” He stares at me for a moment longer then forces his eyes away. “They’re my conquests. I pursued them, seduced them, then brought them here to Cazador. He told us he was feeding on them.” He sounds genuinely ashamed of his actions. “But he turned them to spawn. He turned every last one so he’d have souls for this cursed ritual!”

“How long?” Sebastion asks quietly. “How long have I been down here?”

“One hundred and seventy years. You were one of my first.”

“My family – my friends – they’re gone…” Sebastians tears turn to anger. “You took them from me. You took everything from me!”

“We’ll set you free.” The stranger says.

“Free? We’ll never be free while that monster lives.”

“That’s why we’re here. To destroy Cazador.”

“Whatever you do just do it quickly. I can’t go on waiting…” Sebastion starts to cry again.

“We’ll be back.” Astarion says and looks at me again. “You have my word.”

It’s only as Astarion leaves that I realise he is followed by not just the one stranger, but a small group of them. A couple of humans, a druid, a half elf, a githyanki and a red flaming Tiefling. They go in the same direction that Cazador has gone however long ago it was he was here tormenting us.

The crowd disperses once more, and I approach Sebastian.

“I knew I’d been here a long time. I didn’t think it was that long.” He almost whispers. “I always hoped that maybe, by some miracle, one day I would get out of here. That I could see my family again. But it’s too late. There’s no one out there for me now…”

“I’m so sorry Sebastian.” I place a hand on his shoulder.

 “Maybe it’s for the best. They wouldn’t have been safe around me. Not like this. I’m better off alone.”

“You’re not alone Seb. We’re your family now.” Hapdim says, and I nod.

A small sad smile appears on Sebastian’s face.

I feel faint. I bring my hands to my head in an attempt to somehow stop the dungeon from spinning around me.

“Woah, are you alright?” Sebastian grips my arm as I sway towards him. “I got you. Lean on me.”

“I don’t feel well.” My words slurring together as Sebastian guides me to a quieter place. He sits me down, then sits next to me. I instantly lean against him, resting my head on his shoulder.

“You have eaten since you got here. Your body is struggling.” Hapdim says, crouching down in front of me.

“Am I dying? I feel like I’m dying.”

“If Cazador was going to let you die he’d do it when he was here to see it. You’re going nowhere.” Sebastian has his arm around me, and I feel my eyes growing heavy.

“She needs blood.” Hapdim says.

“There won’t be any more rats until tomorrow and we don’t know when Astarion will be back to release us. If he even does come back.” He replies. “What can we do?”

“We make her as comfortable as possible, and we wait.”

My consciousness drifts in and out for a while. I have no way of telling how long, all I know is Sebastian and Hapdim remain. I can hear their voices beside me. It reminds me of when I first woke up here. Listening to them speak, without knowing who they were. That feels like so long ago now. How long have I been here?

I find myself back in my daydream, the one where I’m an artist. I leave my fairytale cottage and walk through the woods to the edge of a cliff that overlooks the sea, where I set up my easel and begin painting the view. A dragon flies overhead and out across the water, following a boat that sails into the distance. It’s a stunning sight and I paint as fast as I can to try to capture it.

“Darling?” a familiar voice calls out behind me.

“Let me just finish this.” I respond, still painting.

“You need to wake up now.”

“I’m almost done.”

“Open your eyes.”

“They’re already open…” I say confused, as I turn to see Astarion behind me.

“Come back to me.”

He puts his hand on my cheek and my eyes shoot open.

The beautiful daydream is long gone and I’m back in the dungeon.

I lift my heavy head from Sebastian’s shoulder. Hapdim is stood nervously next to a two people I recognise as part of the group who were at the gate with Astarion. Behind them the other prisoners are being ushered out of the dungeon through the open gate by the rest of the unknown group.

Astarion is crouching in front of me.

“Hello darling. I think it’s time we get out of here, don’t you?”

I realise Astarion still has his hand on my cheek, and I flinch away from him. He retracts his hand, I notice it’s stained with blood. Sensing my fear, he holds his hands up in surrender.

“It’s alright, I’m not going to hurt you. You’re safe with me.”

“Safe with you? It’s because of you that I’m here! What Cazador did to me, to Sebastian, to so many others… it all started with YOU!” I snap, pushing him away as angry tears filling my eyes. He falls back from his crouched position onto his heels.

“You don’t remember?” He looks at me with hurt. “It didn’t work. I thought killing him would work, but you’re still scared of me.”

“What are you talking about? What didn’t work?”

“Cazador put a memory charm on you. I thought that him being dead would mean the charmed would be removed but alas, no. Even beyond the grave he’s still tormenting us.”

“Why would he do that?”

“He was punishing me for trying to help you escape. He realised, when I was begging him to spare you, that I-” he pauses, looking into my eyes “…have feelings for you."

Something in my heart reacts to his confession, for a moment the fear is replaced with some tenderness.

"He made you forget and then forced me to watch as he murdered you, so that I’d know you died thinking I didn’t care about you. I had no idea he was actually going to turn you and lock you away down here.”

“Is there any way to bring her memories back? Because currently she doesn’t even know who she is.” Hapdim says and Astarion looks at me with worry.

“Please, Astarion, if you know anything about who I am, please tell me?” I ask him with hope.

“Only your name… Y/N.”

 The name stirs something in me. Recognition.

“Y/N. My name is Y/N!” a wave of emotion hits me as I finally have some part of my identity back. “I’m Y/N.”

Astarion gestures for the unknown woman to come closer. She kneels in front of me with a comforting smile.

“Hello Y/N, I’m Shadowheart. I’m just going to check you over.” she says, as Astarion gets up to give her space. He stands behind her, watching nervously as she places her hand gently on my head. I feel a calming warmth radiate from her. “It’s strange, that memory charm is only supposed to remove one event from a person’s mind but seems something went wrong. It removed her whole life.”

“Can you remove the curse?” Astarion asks Shadowheart as she stands.

“Technically yes, but it’s tricky. I’ll need Gale’s help.”

“You go on ahead and get things prepared. We’ll meet you at camp.”

Shadowheart nods and flashes me a quick smile before running out after the group that have now exited the dungeon. I rest my head back on Sebastian’s shoulder, feeling another wave of exhaustion come over me.

“Darling?” Astarion calls gently and I open my eyes. “You really need to feed.”

“No-”

“We need to leave the palace while it’s still dark, but you won’t make it anywhere in this state.”

“I don’t want to drink blood.”

“You can’t keep living like this.” Sebastian joins in.

“I won’t do it!”

“But why?” Astarion fails to hide the frustration in his voice.

“Because this is the only thing I have control over. It’s the only choice I get to make. I didn’t get a choice when you picked me as your victim!” I cry, Astarion flinches. “I didn’t get a choice when Cazador took my memories and turned me into this… I didn’t get a choice when he forced me to stay still while I had things carved into my skin. But now I get to choose. I refuse to be the monster that he made me… I refuse!”

“Listen to me.” Astarion says gently, crouching in front of me and taking my hands “You have another choice. Choose to take your life back from Cazador. He took your life from you and staying in this state, you’re letting him keep it. Choose to live. Become Y/N again.”

“But Y/N isn’t a murderer.” I argue.

“You don’t have to kill anyone. Tav here has been letting me feed on them for weeks and they are very much still alive.” Astarion says, gesturing to the person stood next to Hapdim. Tav gives a small, slightly awkward wave.

“But I thought we were forbidden from feeding on thinking creatures?” Hapdim says. “Isn’t that one of Cazador’s rules?”

“Ah, yes. That. Well, Cazador is gone now, and so are his rules.” Astarion takes a breath. “Please Y/N.”

I think about it for a moment, taking a deep steadying breath. Astarion has a point. If I keep on like this, it’s like I’m letting Cazador win. Letting him control me even after he’s gone.

“Okay.” I nod, relief washing over Astarion.

“Thank you darling.” He breathes a sigh and looks over his shoulder. “Tav… as the only non-vampire here… I don’t suppose…?”

“Of course.” Tav rolls their eyes jokingly. “Happy to help. How d’you wanna do this?”

Tav and Astarion both look to me expectantly and my heart races.

“I- I don’t know. I don’t know what I’m doing.”

“For a first time, the wrist is probably easier.” Astarion says casually, as if it’s totally normal to be talking about me biting someone and drinking their blood. “Is that alright with you Tav?”

Tav nods, coming to sit on the floor next to me.

“Uh, it’s probably best for you two to leave at this point.” Astarion says to Sebastian and Hapdim. “The bloodlust will be hard for you to control, especially after being trapped down here for all those years. Tav doesn’t want 3 hungry vampires hanging off them. You can wait upstairs.”

Sebastian looks to me for confirmation that I’m okay. I nod. He gives my hand a quick squeeze before getting up and leaving with Hapdim. Without Sebastian to lean against I feel my body start to drift. Astarion quickly takes his place, using his body to stop me falling.

The three of us sit for a moment, leaning against the wall behind us. Eventually Astarion asks if I’m ready and I reluctantly agree. Tav shifts slightly and hold their arm out for me. I reach out to take it, my hand shaking. As our skin touches, I notice how warm they are. A stark contrast to Sebastian and Astarion’s cool skin. I can feel their pulse. I can smell their blood. It makes me start to salivate. I lift their arm closer to my face, my anxiety increases with every second. Am I really going to do this?

Astarion place his hand underneath mine, helping me hold Tav’s arm steady in my shaky grip. “Choose to live.” He whispers as together we raise Tav’s arm to my lips.

With one final deep breath I open my mouth and sink my teeth in. If Tav feels any pain, they do a good job of hiding it. The warm liquid fills my mouth and for the briefest of moments I am repulsed. But then the taste hits my tongue and suddenly I’m taken over. No matter how much I drink, I can’t get enough. Its euphoric. I feel my senses come alive. My body filling with strength with every gulp. It’s almost pleasurable? Tav groans beside me. Are they enjoying this as much as I am? I can hear Astarion’s voice, but I don’t hear the words. I feel him starting to pull Tav’s arm away, and I fight to keep it in place. I don’t want this to end. But he’s more powerful than I am and he manages to pull us apart. In one swift move he pushes Tav away and gets himself up onto his knees in front of me. Both arms pin me to the wall as I fight to get him off. I feel frenzied. I want more blood.

“Tav, back away. Now!” he shouts and Tav obeys, getting to their feet and putting a distance between us. “Y/N, you’re okay. This feeling will pass. Just breathe with me.”

“I need MORE!” I shout, my voice sounded like I’ve never heard it before. It scares me.

“That’s the bloodlust talking, not Y/N. I need Y/N to come back now.”

He stays with me like this for a while, and as the bloodlust subsides something else hits me. A whole mixture of complicated emotions. Guilt over what I’ve just done. Disgust at how much I enjoyed it. Grief for the life I don’t even remember but can never go back to.

I start to sob.

Astarion loosens his grip on my shoulders and pulls me into him for a hug. I resist at first but I soon melt into him. My face pressed against his chest, I soak his shirt with my tears. And he lets me. He doesn’t pull away. He doesn’t try to talk to me. He just holds me until the tears stop and my breathing calms.

“Thank you.” I whisper into his chest.

“Let’s get you out of here.”

*final part coming soon*

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Hunger | Part Two

Summary: waking up in a dungeon full of vampires with no memory and a sudden hunger for blood… never should have accepted that drink from the pale elf in the tavern.

Pairing: Astarion x Reader, platonic Sebastian x reader

Word Count: 1.2k

Warnings: even more angst, reader is starving herself, blood, torture, death… Cazador is a walking trigger warning lets be honest.

Author Notes: Hope you enjoy! as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

Part One | Series Masterlist

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

It’s amazing how time loses all meaning when you’re trapped in a windowless dungeon. I try to keep track of the days by how often the rats run by, but after a while I lose count.

My stomach aches with hunger, but no matter how bad it gets I just can’t bring myself to drink from a rat. Even Hapdim has given up trying to convince me. I think a part of me worries that if I give in and drink blood, then I really am what Cazador has made me. By not drinking, I have some sort of control left. Or at least that’s what I’ve tricked myself into believing.

I feel so weak.

I was hoping my memories would have returned by now, but I’m still no closer to finding out who I am. I wonder if my family or friends miss me, if I have any. A small hope lingers inside that if I do have people out there, they’ll be looking for me and someone will find us.

I spend most of my time sat in the darkness, waiting. Not just to be saved, but for literally anything to happen. Even if it was Cazador coming to drag me away for one of his twisted punishments that the others have told me so much about. At least then I’d have a chance to end this.

Sebastian checks on me a lot. Anytime he catches a rat, he offers some to me. But he never pushes when I refuse. He just sits near me and feeds himself. He tells me tales about his life before Astarion. I live through his memories.

Eventually I get my wish. Something happens.

The sound of doors opening somewhere gets everyone’s attention. Others rush to the still locked gates of our cell, but I remain sat down. I’m so empty that my body wouldn’t let me get up even if I wanted to.

The buzz of excitement dies in an instant and everyone backs away from the gate. Through the gap in the crowd, I see Cazador at the gate. He looks directly at me and again something stirs in me. I feel terrified and simultaneously drawn to him somehow.

“Ah, our new arrival. I almost forgot.” He smiles and sharp toothed grin. “Bring her to me.”

Some of the other prisoners immediately move and grab hold of me, dragging me and dropping me at the gate. He produces a small ornate dagger from his pocket and passes it through the bars to Wensleydale, who is standing closest.

“Mark her for me.” Cazador commands and Wensleydale’s red eyes flash brightly. He pushes me back and kneels next to me as he pulls my shirt up to reveal my stomach. The moment the blade makes contact with my skin, pain courses through my body. I scream, I arch my back, I kick my legs, I try to fight.

“Be still!” Cazador’s voice booms and my body reacts. Though I want to fight, I cannot. My body is frozen. A memory flashes in my head. This isn’t the first time he’s forced me not to move.

Cazador tuts. “I said be still. I did not say be silent. I want the whole palace to hear you sing.”

Suddenly my mouth can open and my screaming resumes. It keeps on until Wensleydale finally stands up and hands Cazador back his knife. I lay there panting.

Cazador crouches down, peering through the bars. He takes a moment to inspect whatever has been done to me before making eye contact with me.

“Good girl.” He almost purrs before standing and walking away. I hear the sound of a door bang shut and instantly Wensleydale is at my side.

“I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! I couldn’t stop- he made me- I’m so sorry-” he sobs and tries to touch me, but Sebastians pulls him away.

“Leave her alone, give her space.” He says, putting an arm around me as he helps me up and leads me back to my spot in the dark.

I wince as he helps me sit, pain shooting through the skin of my stomach. I try to lift my shirt, but Sebastian places his hand on mine to stop me.

“It’s better if you don’t look. Trust me.”

“What did he do to me?”

“He carved a rune. All of us have one but we don’t know why or what it means. It will heal, but it will leave a scar. There is a small mercy in it not being on your face.”

I look at him and then look around the dungeon. Hapdim is trying to comfort a still sobbing Wensleydale. Some are looking at me with concern, while others are trying to peer through the bars to see where Cazador went.

“I don’t understand.” I say quietly. “We’re all vampires. And I have blood all over me. Why is no one trying to bite me right now?”

“We are forbidden to drink from a thinking creature. One of Cazador’s rules that we have no choice but to follow. Another one being we cannot disobey an order.” He glances at Wensleydale. “He had no choice.”

“I know, it’s not his fault. Cazador’s power is terrifying.” I sigh. “That is the second time he has had complete control over my body.”

“The second? You remembered something?”

“When he commanded me to be still, I had a flashback from the night he took my life. He ordered me not to move then too, right before he bit me.”

“Astarion wasn’t holding you?” he seems genuinely surprised. “Then where was he?”

“I- I don’t know… asleep maybe? Why does it matter?”

“Because no one else in here has a story like that. We all have basically the same one. Vampire seduces us. Vampire takes us to bed. Vampire holds us down while even more evil vampire drains our blood.”

“Well, I was almost out the door by the time Cazador got there. I was reaching for the door handle, and he stopped me.”

“You were escaping?”

“Yeah, I think I was.”

“That’s never happened before.” Sebastian looks at me in amazement. “Gods, I wish you had your memories! If we can figure out how you almost got away, we might have a chance of finally escaping this dungeon.”

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

Since I can’t remember anything about my life before waking up here, I’ve decided to imagine myself a new one. I spend most of my time sat in the dark, head leant back against the wall, eyes closed. Creating images in my head of what my life could have been. Maybe I was an artist, who painted beautiful landscapes and portraits of the nobles. Or maybe I was a noble myself, walking around all day in gorgeous hand-crafted dresses, being waited on by staff. I could have been a pirate. Sailing the seas, causing trouble with my band of misfits.

I’m deep in a daydream when Hapdim shakes me back to reality.

“There’s someone here.”

I get up and head toward the crowd just in time to see Sebastian throw himself at the gate, reaching angrily through the bars. He slides to the floor. He looks broken. I look from him to the pale elf standing on the other side of the gate. His silver hair shining. His red eyes full of remorse, look up and find me. I feel my breath catch in my throat.

“Astarion…”

“It can’t be-” he almost whispers.

*part 3 coming soon*

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Hunger | Masterlist

Fandom: Baldurs gate 3

Pairing: Astarion x Reader

Summary: waking up in a dungeon full of vampires with no memory and a sudden hunger for blood… never should have accepted that drink from the pale elf in the tavern.

- Part One

- Part Two

- Part Three

- Part Four (coming soon)

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Hunger | Astarion x spawn!reader

Summary: waking up in a dungeon full of vampires with no memory and a sudden hunger for blood... never should have accepted that drink from the pale elf in the tavern.

Pairing: Astarion x Reader (though he isn't in this chapter), platonic Sebastian x reader

Word Count: 2.3k

Warnings: this whole series is gonna be suuuuper angsty so strap in guys. mentions of blood, torture, death... Cazador is a walking trigger warning lets be honest.

Author Notes: Okay so this Astarion 'one shot' ended up being waaaaay longer than I planned so its going to be a mini series instead. Huzzah! I have *almost* finished by first BG3 playthrough (I literally just have to defeat the elder brain) and I also play dnd so I've tried to put some of that nerdy knowledge to use here. That being said, I have taken creative licence so don't come for me if vampire/spawn lore isn't accurate... Hope you enjoy! as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

-- -- -- -- --

Unfamiliar voices surround me as the cold of the stone floor tingles at my back.

‘He got another one.’

‘Bet he tricked her same way he tricked us.’

‘Wonder how long before she wakes.’

I want to tell them that I am awake. I want to move. I want to open my eyes.

But my eyes are fixed shut, no matter how much I will them to open. I just don’t have the strength.

I feel empty. 

Like the life has been drained from my body. But also literally empty, like I haven’t eaten for a week. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this hungry before in my life. Hunger to the point of pain.

But still, I can’t move.

So I lay there lifelessly, clinging to the small hope that soon whatever has happened to me will wear off and I will be able to move again.

That I will be okay.

I have no idea how long I’ve been like this. Drifting in and out of consciousness with only the still unseen voices for company. I don’t know who they are, these people that seem to be always with me.

I felt one touch me. Just once. A hand on my shoulder. A voice that sounded kind.

‘When are you going to wake up?’ she had said quietly to me but was quickly told keep away by another voice that sounded less kind.

‘No don’t touch her! She might be an angry one. A lot of them wake up angry until they get some blood.’

Blood.

Why does hearing that word make my stomach ache so much.

I take a deep involuntary intake of breath through my nose and it’s like my senses come alive.

I can smell it.

Blood.

And my mouth starts to water as my stomach continues to ache.

I hear a low, guttural groan and realise the sound came from me.

‘She’s waking up!’

‘About bloody time.’

‘Stand back, give her space.’

For the first time in a long time, I manage to open my eyes. I turn my head in the direction of the voices to see a small crowd of strangers staring back at me inquisitively.

I try to sit up, but my arms have no strength. One of the strangers starts to walk toward me but is held back.

“Keep your distance.” A man says.

“If she was going to attack us she would have done it by now.” The young lady says as she shakes herself free and crouches down in front of me with a cautious smile. She helps me sit up and I finally take in my surroundings.

Dark stone walls make up 3 sides of the room, the other side being a tall golden gate that doesn’t appear to have a handle.

“What is this place?” I ask, my voice croaky from not being used for a while. I glance up at the lady closest to me. She has some sort of markings carved into her face. It looks quite fresh. I look over to the crowd of others sharing this space and notice they too have similar markings. “Who are you?”

“We’re like you. Prisoners.” The lady replies sadly.

“Victims.” A man in the crowd says “His playthings. Forever waiting here for his next punishment.”

I feel my eyes go wide as he closes in on me. I shuffle backwards away from him until my back hits the wall and I can go no further. I pull my knees up to my chest, wrapping my arms around myself.

“Stop it, can’t you see you’re scaring her!”

“She should be scared. He’ll break her soon, just like he broke all of us!”

“That’s enough Sebastian!” the lady warns before turning her attention back to me with a sympathetic look. “I’m sorry. He’s been here a long time, longer than most of us. It takes its toll. Today seems to be one of his bad days.” She comes to sit on the floor next to me, leaning her back against the stone wall. “My name’s Hapdim.” She pauses. “Can you tell me your name?”

I think for a moment, and it dawns on me that I don’t.

“It’s alright.” She says, seeing the look on my face.

“I don’t know who I am… I- I don’t remember… why can’t I remember?” I can feel panic rising.

“I didn’t either at first. It can take some time after you wake for your memories to come back. And you we’re out for so long… do you remember anything? Anything at all? About your life, or where you were before- how you got here?”

I close my eyes and take a deep breath as I try to focus on something, anything. But its like something in my mind is blocking me. I open my eyes and look at Hapdim, feeling tears threatening to spill down my cheeks. I shake my head. She gives me a reassuring smile.

“It’ll come to you, give it time.”

“That bastard really did a number on this one didn’t he.” Sebastian scoffs and Hapdim glares at him.

“Who?” I ask.

“Don’t-” Hapdim warns but Sebastian ignores her.

“Cazador.”

Something inside me responds to that name. My head pounds as brief glimpses of memories flash in my mind.

A door. My shaky hand reaching for the doorknob. A voice asking, no… commanding me to stop. To turn around. To look at him. A tall pale man with dark hair. Red eyes staring into mine as he closes in. Hunter vs prey. His cold hand reaches out to me. Touches my face. Slides down to and firmly grips my chin. Tilts my head up and to the side. Brushes my hair away from my neck and grips my shoulder. His tongue on my neck. The last thing I hear is someone else crying out, begging for him to stop right before he sinks his teeth in.

My eyes shoot open and I gasp for air.

“You’re okay, you’re fine. Just breathe.” Hapdim’s grips my arm attempting to ground me as my hand finds the small bite mark on my neck.

“Cazador did this? He’s a vampire?” I ask breathlessly. Everyone in Baldur’s Gate knew of Cazador Szarr, the powerful and wealthy lord who lived in Szarr Palace.

Hapdim nods solemnly, tilting her head to show me her matching bite mark scar on her own neck. I look to the others; they all have them too.

“How is he getting away with this?” I say, getting to my feet “How is he kidnapping people without anyone in Baldur’s Gate noticing?!”

“It isn’t just Cazador. He has help.” Sebastian says grimly. “His favoured vampires that do his dirty work for him. Seducing people, bringing them to the palace for him. They have no idea that once they step inside, they will never leave.”

“Is- is that how you came to be here?”

“It’s how we all got here... You included.” He says and I shake my head. “You don’t remember yet, but you will. Enjoy the amnesia while it lasts. It’s much less painful than knowing the truth.”

He skulks away into the crowd, leaving his words to sink in. Hapdim places a gentle hand on my shoulder.

“RATS!!” the voice of a young girl shouting sends the dungeon into chaos. People throwing themselves against the bars, reaching through to grab something.

“What’s happening?!” I ask as Hapdim moves past me.

“Wait here.” She says before joining the crowd. A few chaotic moments later and the crowd starts to disperse. Hapdim returns with a rat in her hand. “You must be hungry.”

“I am not eating a rat!” I exclaim in disgust.

“You don’t have to eat it, you just have to drink from it.” She gestures to the others who have now began biting into and sucking blood from the rats they caught.

“I’m not doing that! I’d rather die.”

“Not an option I’m afraid.” Hapdim replies. “You won’t starve to death. You’ll just starve. When Cazador took your life, he took your death too. You won’t die unless he decides you will.”

“If she don’t want it, I do.” A younger man appears, eyes fixed on the rat.

“Back off Wensleydale. Get your own food.” Hapdim warns.

“But I didn’t catch one, they ran by the gates too fast.”

“Then you’ll have to try again tomorrow won’t you.” Hapdim turns her back on Wensleydale as he moves away to start begging off others. “Rats only run through here once a day, so it’s either feed now or wait till tomorrow.”

I look around the room, the blood-stained faces of Cazador’s victims feeding on rats like animals. “How have you all just accepted this?”

“What are we supposed to do?” another man responds, handing his rat corpse to Wensleydale who instantly starts trying to get any last drops of blood out.

“I don’t know, fight back? Escape somehow?!”

“And go where exactly? We can’t go outside. The sun burns us.” He pulls up his sleeve to show a burn scar.

“You’ve been outside?” I ask, a hint of hope that if he found a way out so could I. But he shakes his head.

“It’s one of Cazador’s games. Strap you a chair. Open a window. See how long it takes for you to start screaming.” The man’s voice breaks as he looks down, pulling his sleeve to cover his burned arm again.

I say nothing. I can’t.

“Are you going to feed or not?” Hapdim holds the rat out to me.

“You have it.” I say quietly as I turn and walk away from her. Away from the crowd. Away from the light that spills through the bars from the corridor.

I sit in the shadows, thinking over everything I’ve learned since waking up here.

I try again to remember my name. Who I am. How I got here. Anything really.

But it’s all still gone.

Someone clears their throat in the darkness near me. I turn to see Sebastian making his way towards me.

“Sorry, I didn’t know you were here.” I say, wiping my face. “I’ll leave you alone-”

“Stay, it’s fine.” He says, a gentleness in his voice I haven’t heard yet. He sits near me. “I am sorry for how I have spoken to you since you woke. It was unnecessarily cruel of me. as Hapdim said, today is one of my bad days. Not that any day in here is particularly good.”

“It’s okay.”

“Every time someone new arrives, it brings it all back. Not just being bitten by Cazador, but everything that led up to that moment. And it makes me feel… stupid.”

“What do you mean?”

“I really thought he liked me. But he was just pretending. Just playing along to get me here.”

“Who...? Cazador?”

“Astarion.”

Something inside me stirs at that name, a flicker of recognition. Pale skin. Red eyes. Pointed ears. A beautiful face, framed by curls of silver hair.

“You know him.” Sebastian states, noticing the look on my face. “He got you too, didn’t he.”

“I- I think so. I don’t remember much, just his face.”

“That face.” He lets out a short laugh. “That’s how he gets you. Lures you in with his beauty and traps you with his charm. I wish I’d never stepped foot in that gods-forsaken tavern.”

“Is that where you met him?” I ask, hoping Sebastian’s story might bring my own memories back. “If you don’t mind talking about it, that is.”

“Yes. And I’d wager it’s where you did too. Most who were brought here by him met him in one tavern or another. He gets you just drunk enough so you can’t make good decisions. Easier for him that way.”

Another image flashes into my mind. The pale elf handing me a drink. Leaning in, closing the gap between us. His velvet voice in my ear; ‘Let’s drink to you, darling.’

“What happened next?” I ask, partly to Sebastian but partly also to myself. What did we do after we drank? I need to know.

“He told me he lived in the palace and that I should come home with him…”

‘You know, I don’t usually tell people who I’ve just met this but, I live in Szarr palace. I’d love to take you there, show you around. My room is especially exquisite.’

“I stupidly agreed, of course. I’d never so much as been kissed before and now here I was, a beautiful man wanting to take me to bed. How was I supposed to say no.” Sebastian looks down, playing with his hands nervously. This is hard for him to talk about. “He kissed me so passionately, I can almost still feel it.”

A soft hand on my cheek. His lips pressed to mine. Sinking into the softness of his mattress.

“I fell asleep when we finished. Wrapped in his arms, I felt so safe. I had no idea the trap I had just fallen into.” Sebastians eyes suddenly snap to mine. “And then Cazador arrived.”

‘I’m sorry.’

“He held me down as Cazador took my life. Didn’t take his eyes off mine.”

I take a shaky breath as I reach across to gently squeeze Sebastians hand. He looks shocked at the sudden contact, but he doesn’t pull away.

“Thank you for sharing that with me. It can’t have been easy to relive that.”

“Did it help? Do you remember now?”

“Bits, yes.” I nod. “Similar to you. He gave me drinks, took me back to his bed and we kissed.”

“Nothing else?”

“That’s all I got for now.” I shrug. But then the final memory flashes again. “Actually, there is one more thing. Did he ever apologise to you?”

Sebastian laughs. “Apologise?! That monster? Absolutely not. Why do you ask?”

I think about telling him but decide against it.

“No reason. Just wondered if he might feel regret.”

“He’d need a heart for that. And I’m damn well sure he hasn’t got one.”

PART TWO

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Hello 30 🎂

(I will get back to writing soon, I promise!)

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

guys, guys, GUYS!!!

I went to HP studios yesterday. I got a robe. I got Lupin's wand. I used that wand to 'fight' a dragon.

It was epic. My lil hufflepuff heart is happy.

And now Im back to reality I need to actually finish writing The Monster of Wolf Woods...

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Wolf Woods...? Getting ideas for part two on my morning walk 🐺🌳

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

The Monster of Wolf Woods | Part One

Summary: a love story of a muggle and a werewolf

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Reader

Word Count: 1.5k

Warnings: Remus hating on himself

A/N: this is the start of a two part (possibly more if people like it) story to please the David Thewlis hyperfixation my brain currently has. Hope you enjoy! as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

- - - - -

I’d never paid much attention to the moon, other than the occasional glance up to admire it’s beauty on a dark night. I’d never stopped to consider the danger that lurked beneath it. That is until I met Remus. 

I work in a small independent book shop in the middle of a small independent village. No one really knows this village exists aside from the people who live here and there are only around 300 or so of us. I was working in the bookshop the day I met Remus. It’s not very often you meet new people in this village when so he walked into the shop I felt my heart jump with excitement. His gentle nature, kind smile and enthusiasm for books caught my attention and I quickly developed a crush on him. I kicked myself for not asking for his number as I watched him leaving the shop, thinking I’d blown my opportunity and that I’d never see him again. 

To my surprise (and relief) he came back the following day. And the day after that. And the day after that. 

He came back to the shop every single day for almost a week, each time buying a new book before talking to me for at least an hour about the book he’d purchased the previous day. It was like we’d started our own little book club. 

“Well lovely chatting you as always. I’ll see you tomorrow.” he said on the Saturday as he turned to leave the shop. 

“Actually we’re closed on Sundays.” I replied regretfully, half considering opening up the shop just for him. 

“Oh” he responded disappointed, thinking for a moment “Well I guess you’ll have to let me take you out somewhere else then.”

“Like, a date…?” I tested, feeling butterflies as I waited for his answer. 

“If that’s okay with you.” He suddenly sounded nervous. “You don't have to of course, if you’d rather not-”

“Remus” I said gently, interrupting him before he had a chance to fully spiral. “I thought you’d never ask.” 

“You- you want to?” The hope in his eyes melted my heart. 

“I’ve wanted to since the day you first walked in.” 

The next day we met up outside the closed bookshop. He brought flasks of coffee and together we walked through the village and shared stories about our lives with each other. He told me about how he spent the past year working as a teacher at some private boarding school but recently moved back to the area after having enough of dealing with ‘rich overbearing parents’. I told him how I’d moved to this village 6 months ago after splitting with my ex, opening up to him about the awful way I’d been treated which explained why I wanted a fresh start in the middle of nowhere. 

We’d become so distracted in our conversation that I didn’t even realise how far we’d walked until we arrived at the edge of the forest. 

“Everything alright dear?” He asked, noticing my hesitation to follow him. 

“This is the entrance to wolf woods.” I say and he nods. “Did you mean to bring us here?” 

The forest wasn’t really called wolf woods, that’s just the nickname given to it by the locals because if you listen into the night when the moon is full you can almost hear the sounds of a wolf howling. No one had ever actually seen a wolf, but the villagers still would never get near just in case. 

“I must admit I got so caught up listening to your story I lost track of where we were going. I didn’t mean to bring you so close to the forest. I’m sorry if I scared you.”

“Oh no, I’m not scared!” I say with a smile and he looks at me confused.

“But the wolf lives here.”

“I’ve read a lot about them and I think they’re beautiful and misunderstood creatures. I’m more concerned that if there is a wolf living in these woods then two humans walking into its home might startle it and make it feel unsafe.” When I looked at Remus I swear I saw a tear in his eye. “Are you okay?” 

“I’ve never heard mugg-” he corrected himself “person talk so kindly about a monster before.” 

“I don't believe they’re monsters. But even if they were, everyone deserves kindness…” I say, taking a step to close the gap between us.” …everyone deserves love.” 

Remus suddenly leant down and kissed me, taking my breath away, before pulling away flustered. 

“Sorry, I don't know what came over me-” he starts breathlessly but I grab his face and pull him in for another kiss, this one lasting longer as we both melted into each other. 

That was the first of many kisses I shared with Remus as we started seeing each other. As the months went by I noticed a trend in his behaviour. Once a month he’d be gone for a couple of days on what he jokingly referred to as a ‘super secret work trip’ but would never actually go into detail about. When I tried to ask him more about these trips or even what he did for work the conversation would always go elsewhere. He would often come back from these trips with cuts and bruises that he’d try to hide from me. His energy would be low and though he’d try to put on a happy face I could tell he was down. 

After one particularly bad trip where he came back using a cane to help him walk I sat him down on the sofa in my living room and pulled up a chair to sit in front of him as I asked him for the truth. He gave me a sad smile, and started to explain everything. I sat and listened, occasionally asking a question to help me understand, while he told me about magic and wizards and muggles and Hogwarts. It amazed me to find out this whole other world existed right under my nose. It also terrified me a little to learn of someone he referred to as ‘the dark lord’, but Remus assured me that we’d be safe. 

“So… you're a wizard?” I asked and he nodded. I smiled. “That’s pretty cool.” 

“There’s more.” His face turned serious as he took my hand. He breathed deep and I could tell he was afraid of what he had to say next. “There is a wolf that lives in the forest. But he’s not beautiful like the wolves you’ve read about in your nature books. This one really is a monster. And I’m really hoping that you meant it when you said everyone deserves love because-” he stopped, trying to calm himself with another deep breath. “Y/N…”

“It’s okay.” I said, squeezing his hand tighter as he started to cry. 

“It’s not okay, it’s not!” He cries and I placed one hand on his cheek, wiping tears away with my thumb as they rolled down past his scars. “I can’t-”

“You can Remus. Nothing that you say will change the way I feel about you.” I gently guided his face so I can look into his eyes. “Look at me. You can tell me.” 

He removed my hand from his face, placing it with my other hand in his. 

“I’m a werewolf.” He says, looking down to fix his gaze on where our hands are intwined. “When I was a child a vicious werewolf broke into our family home and attacked me while I was sleeping and ever since then I have been cursed to transform into something I hate every full moon. There’s a bunker near my cottage in the forest that I lock myself in but the wolf is loud and sometimes the villagers hear me. Thankfully no one has ever been brave enough to go searching the woods and hopefully they never will. For years I’ve been planting ideas in the muggle’s heads. The right words said to the right people at the right time and before you know it the whole village has been warned to stay clear of the dangerous creature in the forest. They have no idea its really me. I am the monster of wolf woods.���

My hands slip from Remus’ as he leans back in his chair, letting out a breath as he watches me with worry in his eyes, trying to work out what I’m thinking. Silently I stand up from my seat and Remus’ worry turns to panic. 

“I understand completely if this is too much, if you don't want to see me-” he starts babbling but I cut him off as I sit down on the sofa next to him, putting my arm around him to pull him into a tight hug. I feel how much he is shaking and he starts to cry with relief. 

“I can’t lie, that was a lot to take in. But it doesn’t change anything. You’re still Remus, the gentle natured book nerd with a kind smile who came into my shop and stole my heart all those months ago.” I say, leaning away to look in his face. “My Remus.” 

“I don't deserve you.” He whispers with a sad smile. 

“Yes you do.” I smile back at him as I kiss him on the nose, causing us both to start giggling. 

“Thank you.” he says once we’ve composed ourselves. “My Y/N. I really do love you.” 

“I really do love you too.” 

*part two coming soon*

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

The Monster of Wolf Woods | Masterlist

Fandom: Harry Potter / Wizarding World

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Reader

Summary: a love story of a muggle and a werewolf

- Part One

- Part Two (coming soon)

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

sp apparently my current hyperfixation is David Thewlis, more specifically Remus Lupin... I have a fic idea, I just need to get it out in some sort of logical story...

(I am also rewatching the last of us to continue the 'Help Her' story)

...coming soon

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

this series is now finished!! I hope you enjoy it :)

Bloody Beetle - Masterlist

Fandom: Marvel, Moon Knight

Pairings: Steven Grant x Reader, Marc Spector x Reader, Arthur Harrow x Reader

Summary: A night on the late shift with Steven ends badly when a creepy guy with a scales tattoo shows up searching for a beetle

- Part One

- Part Two

- Part Three

- Part Four

- Part Five

- Part Six

- Part Seven

- Part Eight

- Part Nine

- Part Ten

COMPLETE

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Bloody Beetle | Part Ten

Summary: buckle up folks, it's the final showdown

Pairing: Steven x reader, Marc x reader, Harrow x reader, Layla x reader

Word Count: 5.6k

Warnings: fighting, deaths...

A/N: as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

Part Nine | Series Masterlist

- - - - -

Layla’s POV 

She wants to stop you from surrendering yourself, she knows it’s dangerous. 

But she also knows neither of you have time to think of another plan. 

As soon as you step out from behind the wall she wastes no time in sneaking over to where Osiris’ avatar is and pulls him to safety. 

“Hey! hey, hey…” She says as she tries to keep him upright and conscious. “How do we stop Ammit?!”

“This chamber is our most powerful place.” He wheezes. “From here we need to imprision Ammit in a mortal form.”

“A body instead of a statue. She’d be vulnerable… okay, how do we do it?” 

“We need more avatars than we have left…” he says before collapsing to the ground. 

“No, no no!” Layla tries to wake him, but when she checks his pulse she realises he’s gone. She thinks for a moment, pondering her options. Reluctantly she summons Taweret and agrees to be her temporary avatar. 

“I am so thrilled! We are gonna have so much fun together.” Taweret says excitedly. “I have a fabulous costume in mind.”

The sound of Harrow’s shout bounces off the walls, getting Layla’s attention. She peers around to watch. 

Harrow is stood in front of you protectively, talking to Ammit. Almost pleading with her. 

“What could she possibly do in the future that is so bad that she deserves this?”  

“She will be the one to kill you.”

Ammit’s reply sends the room silent. A few disciples spare glances at each other but no one dares make a sound. Layla notices the heartbreak on Harrow’s face. 

She watches as you try to stand, try to reason with Harrow, convince him Ammit is lying. 

She watches as Harrow turns to you, and reaches out to help you up from the floor.

She watches as he drives a dagger deep into your stomach and she has to fight with herself not to run over and kill Harrow herself. She knows with Ammit behind him he is too powerful for her to fight alone. 

She watches as everyone just steps over you, leaving you to die. Not a single one of them even pausing for a moment to consider helping you. 

As soon as they’re out she runs to you, calling your name. You manage to roll over and look at her and she sees the moment the last bit of life leaves you. Your body going still, eyes glassing over as you lay limp on the ground. She crouches next to you, checking and double checking for a pulse. Begging you to wake up, to not leave her alone. 

But that’s what she is now… Alone…

Marc is dead. You are dead. Without anyone to help her, she’s sure she will be next.

— — — — 

Y/N’s POV 

“Where am I?” You ask aloud, glancing at the bright white nothingness around you. “Steven? Marc? Anyone?”

“Y/N Y/L/N.” A voice calls from everywhere at once.

“Hello?” You respond. 

“I am Osiris, god of the underworld.”

“…okay…” 

“I have granted you resurrection but I ask something of you in return… Become my avatar.”

“Uh, look I don't think I'm really the person to be asking. I don't know how to be an avatar, I don't even really know what it means… I just know that Marc said it’s bad. Like being a slave? And I really don't want that-”

“You won’t be a slave, you will be powerful.”

“I’m sorry, but my answer is no. And if that means you have to send me back to the Duat then… I accept my fate.” 

“I admire your honesty and bravery Y/N. But we need more avatars than we have left if we are to defeat Ammit.” Osiris speaks calm but firm. “Take the powers that come with being my avatar, use them to defeat Ammit and when the job is done I will take them back from you. I will expect nothing more from you. You may continue to live your life free from any burden.”

“So just like, a temporary deal? Right?”

“Yes.”

“And once Ammit is dealt with, I can just be normal again?” 

“Yes.” Osiris pauses. “Do you accept?” 

“I do.”

— — — — 

You gasp as you sit bolt upright on the cold stone floor of the pyramid, making Layla jump. 

“Y/N?!” She says, grabbing your arms to ground you as you flail around in a panic. “I got, I got you.”

You take deep breaths, clutching your hands to your stomach. You lift your shirt and watch in shock as the wound from the dagger closes itself, leaving you fully healed. Any weakness left from Harrow’s staff is gone too. You feel amazing.

“What… what just happened?” Layla says, wiping tears from her face and staring at your stomach. She helps you up off the floor. “You were dead!” 

“Osiris healed me.” You say, in shock yourself. Then you notice Layla’s outfit. Her mundane clothes from before gone, replaced with a gold and white Egyptian armour. “What are you wearing?” 

“Taweret chose it.” She says before explaining how she agreed to be her temporary avatar. You in turn explained the deal Osiris offered you. 

“Well, you look badass.” You say and she laughs. “Wait, if I’m an avatar too now, does that mean I get a costume too?” 

A bright light swirls around you and when it disappears you’ve changed. No more blood soaked clothes. Instead you're wearing green armour, similar to Layla’s, with white and gold fabric wrapped around your body. Attached to your back is a long golden staff with a hooked end. 

You look down at your clothes in amazement, then up at Layla. The two of you look at each other for a moment before bursting into laughter. You don't really know why you're laughing, but after the stress of the last few days it feels like a welcome break. 

“So, what do we do now?” You says once you composed yourself. Layla sighs, shaking her head. 

“I guess, we try to save the world.”

— — — — 

The two of you head outside. To your surprise the sky is as dark as night, even though you're pretty sure it’s still daytime. The sky is filled with purple lights, flying up from across the city and towards the other side of the pyramid where Ammit is. 

“She’s consuming souls.” Layla says as you watch horrified. The more lights she swallows the bigger she grows. She’s already almost the same size as the pyramid.

“How are we supposed to stop her?!” You ask, looking around frantically. You look up at the top of the pyramid. Harrow is up there, a purple glowing light surrounds him as he chants in a language you don't recognise. 

Before you can say anything, someone flies up to the pyramid and begins to fight Harrow. You recognise the person to be the same as the action figure you found in the museum, dressed head toe in white.  

“Who is that?” You ask Layla, turning her attention to the scene on the pyramid. 

“Marc?” She gasps before turning to you. “Did Osiris resurrect him too?” 

“I- I don't know. Maybe? I didn’t see him after we made it through the gates-”

You stop talking suddenly when you notice Khonshu appear next to Ammit. He goes to hit her with his staff but she reaches out a scaly hand and stops him. They begin to fight as Harrow and Marc fly though the air toward the town, still fighting each other. Khonshu manages to knock Ammit over and she comes crashing down near near you. The force of her slamming into the pyramid sends a cloud of dust and sand over you and Layla. 

“Little bugs.” Khonshu says when he notices he almost flattened the two of you. “Go! Help Marc.”

Layla rolls her eyes at him as she wipes dust from her clothes before turning to you and nodding. You run away from the pyramid in the direction that Marc and Harrow had gone. 

The streets are chaos. Everywhere you look Ammit’s disciples are grabbing people, judging their scales. You watch as Bobbi grabs someone. They begin to shake then fall to the floor as a purple light emerges from them and flies up into the sky. Those who aren’t distracted staring at the dark sky are running, screaming, from the disciples. As you begin fighting off disciples you notice Marc laying on the ground on the other side of the town square, Harrow stood over him with his cane pointed down at him. It starts to glow purple. 

Layla swoops in just in time and knocks Harrow away. He fires purple light from his cane at Layla, but she reflects it with the golden armoured wings attached to her arms and it bounces back at Harrow. It sends him flying backwards into a crowd of people. 

You knock out the guy you're fighting and run over to Marc. His face now uncovered and he spots you over Layla’s shoulder as he’s hugging her. As you get closer his clothes change to a white three piece suit.

“Y/N!” Steven’s voice calls happily as he hugs you tightly. His hand finds the crook attached to your back. “Oh my God, that- that’s Osiris’ crook! Oh that’s bloody brilliant that! Wow!”

“Steven I know this is a massive deal for you but we have to stop Harrow.” You say, smiling at him.

“Right yeah, sorry you just- you look amazing!” He smiles, turning to Layla. “You both do.” 

You hear a scream and turn to see a woman with two young children being cornered by a group of disciples. 

“I’ll go. You two get Harrow.” You say and Steven places a kiss on your cheek before he and Layla run into the crowd and begin fighting. 

You run the other way, grabbing the crook and using it to pull the first bad guy away. You swing him round and send him crashing into the side of a nearby building. The others turn on you, but you effortlessly manage to dodge their attacks and one by one knock them all out. You help the mother and her children find somewhere safe to hide before turning your attention back to the others just in time to see Harrow fighting Marc. 

“You need only remove one weed from the garden. You!” He says, purple light blasting from his cane at Marc.

Marc grabs one of his crescent moon shaped blades but Harrow uses the power from his cane to control Marc’s hand. Layla runs toward them but Harrow sends the blade flying at her and it pins her arm to the side of the truck, before sending a huge blast of power at Marc, forcing him down on his back. On a building above them you see Ammit has also overpowered Khonshu, pinning him down with his own staff. 

Harrow advances towards Marc and you run, throwing yourself in between them.

“STOP!” You shout and Harrow looks at you like he’s just seen a ghost.

“Y/N..?” He says breathlessly. “You’re-”

“Alive? Yeah, I was surprised too.” You say sarcastically. “Why are you doing this? You told me you wanted to stop her!”

“That was before…”

“Before what?”

“Before I knew you would betray me!” He shouts, hitting you with a flash of power from his cane. It knocks you flying out of the way, rolling across the dusty ground. You feel like the wind has been knocked from you as you lay on the ground trying to get your breath back. Harrow advances on Marc again, raising his cane and slamming it into his chest. Purple light streams up through the cane, killing him slowly. 

“NO!” You scream, scrambling to try to get up but a heavy boot comes down on your back. Bobbi stands over you, keeping you down, forcing you to watch. You look over at Layla, she’s surrounded by disciples, using her golden armoured wings to deflect the bullets being fired at her. 

Marc turns his head to look at you before his eyes turn white. 

You can’t really describe what happened next. Something takes over Marc and sends him into a killing frenzy. He’s unstoppable as he takes on multiple disciples at once, slaughtering each one without breaking a sweat. He turns to you and you feel Bobbi remove her foot from your back. She backs away but Marc throws a blade at her and it lodges itself in her forehead, killing her instantly. He locks eyes with you and you don't recognise him at all. That’s not Marc anymore, and it definitely isn’t Steven. He winks at you before taking on Harrow. It doesn’t take long for him to overpower him. Its only as he’s about to kill him that he freezes, his posture changing. He drops Harrow’s unconscious body and looks around in horror at the war zone around him. 

“That wasn’t you, was it Steven?” He says and his suit changes. “Not a chance mate.” 

He looks at you and you get up, dusting yourself down as you make your way over to him.

“Are you alright?” He asks, placing his hands on your face and checking you over. 

“I’m fine, I’m more worried about you.” You reply.

“Marc?” Layla calls, freeing herself from where Harrow had trapped her. Steven changes back to Marc. “What the hell was that?”

“I blacked out.” He says. He looks genuinely worried. 

A rumbling from the building next to you draws your attention to Ammit dragging Khonshu away. 

“Get Harrow!” Layla says “I know how to stop Ammit.” 

— — — — 

Marc carries Harrow and you both follow Layla back to the tomb in the pyramid. Once inside Marc throws Harrow down on one of the stones.

“The power of the room will help us bind Ammit to Harrow’s body.” Layla explains. “Quick grab my hand so we can start the spell.” 

Marc takes Layla’s hand and you take Marc’s. The three of you start chanting the spell in an ancient language, the words must be given to you by the gods because you have no idea what you're actually saying. A circle of light fills the tomb, surrounding the three of you and Harrow. Purple light descends down into Harrow’s body as the spell works. Harrow gasps awake, his wild eyes looking at the three of you. 

“You can never contain me!” Ammit speaks through him. “I’ll never stop!”

“Do the honours, little bug.” Khonshu appears next to you and hands you the same dagger Harrow had earlier used to kill you. “Finish it! Leave neither of them alive.”

You look at the dagger, still stained with your own blood and feel anger boil inside you. You step up to Harrow, grabbing him by his collar and pulling him up to face you. His bright blue eyes stare into your own. 

“Do it.” He croaks. He looks utterly defeated, ready to accept his fate. 

You lift the dagger high, ready to plunge. Then you hear Ammit’s words from earlier.

‘She will be the one to kill you.’

You hesitate, thinking over those words. If you kill him now that means she was right about you. 

“While he lives, so does she.” Khonshu’s words ring in your ears. 

While Harrow lives, so does Ammit. Trapped in a mortal body.

“I said I wouldn’t kill you and I meant it.” You drop Harrow back down on the stone and throw the dagger to the floor. “There are worse fates than death.” 

You turn your back and walk away.

“Weak little bug.” Khonshu mocks but you ignore him. 

Layla takes your hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. 

“I have to finish this.” Marc says suddenly, taking one of his blades and readying himself to stab Harrow. “If not I’ll never be free.”

“Marc!” Layla shouts. “You have a choice. You are free!”

“The choice is vengeance! We cannot take the chance that Ammit finds a way out. She will kill again.”

“Now you sound just like her.” Marc says, throwing his blade away. “You want them dead, do it yourself. Now release us!”

“As you wish.” Khonshu says before disappearing. 

Marc’s suit starts to disappear, a bright white light shines out of his chest and fills the room. For a moment you’re blinded, and when the light fades you find Marc on his knees. His normal clothes have returned. You and Layla go to him, crouching beside him.

“Marc? Are you okay?” Layla asks, full of concern. He looks at her and nods.

“He’s gone.” He smiles. “Thank you for stopping me.”

“What do we with him?” You ask, looking over at Harrow still laying on the stone.

“Lock him up.” Marc replies. “He’s killed so many people there’s no chance he’ll never ever be released. He’ll be locked away until the day he dies. And then Ammit will be gone too.”

You can hear Harrow incoherently babbling away to himself, and you feel a sort of sadness creep in.

“You did the right thing Y/N.” Layla says, noticing the frown on your face. 

“Then why do I feel so… weird?” 

“Love…” Steven’s voice instantly makes you feel a bit calmer and he places his hands gently on your face, forcing you to look away from Harrow. “Hey, look at me… You died today. And then you came back. And then you helped save the world from a giant crocodile lady.” He says making you laugh. “That’s a lot to take in. You're allowed to feel weird. In fact I’d be worried if you felt normal after all that.” 

“I know he did some really awful things but I- I almost kind of feel sorry for him. Is that wrong?” You admit and Steven smiles lovingly. 

“That just proves even more that Ammit’s scales were wrong about you. You are a good person with a kind heart. It’s one of the many things I love about you.” 

He moves his hands to hold yours and you give him a small smile. 

“Thank you.” You share a kiss, before remembering Layla is currently watching you kiss her ex husband. You pull away, giving her an awkward smile. “We should probably get going.” 

“Yeah…” Steven laughs, picking up on the awkwardness of the situation. “Back to good old London town. Get this guy put away… behind bars… where he belongs…”

“Guys it’s fine.” Layla says, laughing at Steven’s awkward rambling. “I’m really happy for you.”

“Are you sure?” Marc’s voice again. He walks closer to her, putting his hands on her shoulders. “I know I wasn’t the best husband. You deserved so much more.”

“It’s okay Marc, honestly. We’re better as friends.” She smiles a genuine smile at him. “Besides, I’ve decided I’m staying here in Egypt.”

“What?” You say, moving to join them. “You’re not coming with us?” 

“While we were fighting out there, a young girl asked me if I was an Egyptian superhero and it made me realise, we didn’t have anything like that. But now we do. I’m going to stay here and work with Taweret to give more young Egyptian girls someone to look up to.” She smiles. “Plus, England is too cold anyway.”

“You got that right.” You laugh as you give her a tight hug. “you are gonna be the most badass superhero ever. But I’m gonna miss you.” 

“You too.” She says and turns to Marc. “Look after her, or you’ll have me to deal with.” 

“Yes ma’am.”

— — — — 

Some Time Later

You headed back to England with Marc and Steven taking turns to take the body. Though you knew Steven best, the more time you spent with Marc the more you enjoyed his company too. 

Ammit’s presence in Harrow’s body meant he became more and more mentally unstable. He spent a lot of time rambling incoherently and occasionally Ammit would takeover, shouting about how she would escape and make everyone pay. Because of this, Harrow was admitted to Sienkiewicz Psychiatric Hospital in London. 

A few days after Harrow was committed, you went to visit him. You don't know why, you just felt like you needed to be sure he was safely locked away. When the nurses first brought you to him, you almost didn’t recognise him. He was sat in a wheelchair, his ankles restrained to it. He looked lost, vulnerable. It made a part of you feel quite sad. 

“Hi Arthur.” You say quietly. He looks up at you blankly. 

“He’s on quite strong medication, so he may not talk very much.” The nurse explains and you nod. “I’ll just be on the other side of the room, shout if you need me.”

“Thanks.” You reply, watching her as she goes to sit with another patient on the far side of the room. You sit down at the table opposite Arthur. “How are you doing? Have you settled in here?” You ask but get no response. You start to feel awkward. You look around the room, trying to think of something to say. You glance down at the table and see paper with some lines painted randomly on it. “Did you paint that?” Harrow looks down at it and nods. “You enjoy painting?” He nods again. “How about we do some together.”

You grab two more pieces of paper, putting one in front go Harrow and the other in front of yourself, and you start to paint. Harrow joins in and the two of you sit quietly together making your own little pictures. 

When your picture is done you show Harrow and he smiles at the simple flower you have painted. He shows you his, just a triangle. 

“It’s good.” You smile. 

“It’s a pyramid. Like the ones they have in Egypt.” He says, slowly sounding more like himself. “Have you ever been?” 

“To Egypt?” You ask and he nods. “Yeah I’ve been, with you. You took me there, remember?”

He stares at you for a long moment, a flicker of something like hurt flashes on his face, and then he goes blank again. You try to make more conversation, but he doesn’t say much after that. 

Not long after the nurse comes back and tells you visiting time is over. You slide your flower painting across the table to Harrow. 

“You can keep this.” You say smiling. “Goodbye Arthur.” 

You get up and start to walk away. 

“Y/N!” He calls, making you stop and turn back. “I’m really sorry I killed you.” 

You didn’t say anything back, you just nod at him as the nurse leads you out. 

As you sign yourself out the nurse speaks to you. 

“That is the most alert and talkative we’ve seen him since he arrived. You must be someone important to him.”

Her words replayed through your head for the rest of the day and that night as you sat down to eat dinner with Steven you told him about it. 

“I’ve been thinking, I might go back and see him again.” 

“Really?” Steven asks. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?” 

“You didn’t see him today Steven, he’s different. The dangerous man that we knew is gone. Now he just seems so… lost. I guess a part of me feels responsible for that.” 

“Love…” Steven sighs, putting down his food to fully concentrate on you. “Harrow is where he is now because of the things HE did. The choices HE made. You gave him plenty of chances, even after he murdered you!” He reaches across the table to hold your hands. “Listen, Marc wants me to tell you not to go but I know that will make you want to do it even more.” He says and you laugh, nodding. “If this is something you really want to do, if it makes you feel better, then I think you should do it. Just, please be careful.” 

“I will.”

The following week you head back to the hospital and do some more painting with Arthur. It soon became a regular thing. The more you visited the more chatty he became. He started to tell you about life in hospital, sharing stories about the other patients and in turn you told him about your life. Although he initially looked hurt to find out you and Steven were now dating, ultimately he said he was happy to see you happy. 

If you hadn’t known him before, you wouldn’t guess this was once the leader of a cult intent on releasing a dangerous Egyptian goddess into the world. You’d never guess how much damage he had caused just weeks ago. And you’d certainly never guess that dangerous Egyptian goddess was now trapped inside him. There were hints occasionally that Ammit was trying to take over, to shout abuse at you, but Harrow always made sure she couldn’t hurt you. 

You didn’t talk about what happened in Egypt, you didn’t want to drag it all up again. He wasn’t the same person now anyway. And at least he’d apologised to you. Instead you chose to give him a fresh start, and just enjoy your weekly visits talking and painting with Arthur Harrow. 

—

—

—

—

—

Epilogue

One morning you woke up to a voice in your head. 

Osiris’ voice. 

“The deal is done. I release you from your duty.” 

“What?” 

“Ammit had been defeated.” 

“Yeah, but that was weeks ago.” You say, not understanding why he’s waited till now to talk to you. “We imprisoned her in Arthur Harrow’s body and they’re both locked up.” 

“I release you from your duty.” He repeats and you feel a strange sensation move through your body. Then nothing. 

“Osiris?” You call out, but no reply. “Well that was weird…” 

“You alright love?” Steven asks as he comes into the bedroom and hands you a cup of coffee.

“Osiris just released me.” You say confused as Steven sits on the bed next to you. 

“Well that’s a good thing innit?” He replies with a smile.

“Yeah, definitely. It’s just… why now? Why this exact moment instead of when we bound Ammit or when her and Harrow were first locked away? What’s so special about this morning?” 

“Osiris is a busy guy, maybe he didn’t have time until now. Or maybe you're just thinking into it too much…” 

“I just think it’s a bit odd that’s all.”

“That’s the gods for ya, all a bit odd. I don't think us humans are supposed to understand ‘em.” 

“You’re probably right.” You say before taking a sip of your coffee. “Anyway, where did you disappear to this morning?” 

“What do you mean?” Steven asks blankly. 

“I woke up in the early hours and you were gone.”

“I don't remember going anywhere… Marc?” He shifts and Marc speaks “Don't look at me. I thought we were sleeping all night.”

“Do you need the restraints back on the bed?” 

“Only if you want them back” Marc says flirtatiously, flashing you a mischievous grin. He shifts again and Steven comes back. “Oy, back off you.” He says to Marc before focusing on you. "I probably just went to get water and don't remember. Don't worry about it.” He kisses you on the forehead. “Right, I’ve gotta get to work, laters gators.” 

“Laters.” You laugh, and blow him a kiss. He mimes catching it and putting it in his pocket before leaving. 

You decide to put the Osiris thing out of your head. Steven’s right, there’s no point trying to understand the mind of a god. You finish your coffee before you get out of bed and get ready for the day. 

In the afternoon you head to the hospital as usual, and are surprised to see police cars parked outside the building. As soon as you step inside the nurse you’ve become used to seeing comes over to you.

“Y/N, please come with me.” She says, leading you into a small side room with a police officer inside. 

“Is everything alright?”

“Please take a seat.” The officer says and gestures to the chairs. You sit down in one, the nurse sits next to you. 

“What’s going on?” You ask, getting nervous.

“Miss Y/L/N, earlier this morning someone came into the hospital, murdered three members of staff and left with Arthur Harrow.” 

“What?! Who?” 

“We don't know yet. The CCTV cameras were damaged. All we have is a few eye witnesses who say they saw a smartly dressed man wearing a flat cap wheeling Harrow out of the building.” The officer explains, and you feel your heart start to race. If Harrow is out then Ammit could escape. The nurse notices your breathing has picked up and reached over to hold your hand. “I’m sorry, I understand this must be distressing. Harrow is your friend, correct?”

“Uh… yeah…” you reply, trying to focus on what the officer is saying and not the panic running around your head.

“According to the sign in sheets you’re the only regular visitor he has. Do you have any idea of who could have done this? Or why they would have done this?”

You search your brain for any options. The only people who really know who he is are yourself, Marc, Steven and Layla. You definitely didn’t do it. Marc and Steven wouldn’t have done it, and you can’t imagine Layla would have. You realise the officer is still looking at you for an answer. 

“No, no sorry. I- I don't think he has anyone else.”

“Here, take my card. If you think of anything give me a call.” The officer hands you a small business card and the nurse leads you back out the room. 

“Are you going to be okay? I know you’re quite close to him.” She asks, noticing how shook up you are she places a gentle hand on your arm. “Do you want me to call someone to pick you up?” 

“I’ll be fine, thank you though.” You smile at her as you reach the door out the building. “You have my number, will you please let me know if there’s any news?”

“Of course. Take care Y/N.” 

You head outside, and cross the street to where there’s a small park. You find an empty bench and sit for a moment to process the news and what that could mean. Who could have known Harrow was there? Who could have wanted him out? Maybe there’s another Ammit fanatic out there who wants her released? 

A shudder goes down your spine at the thought of her getting out. 

You take your phone from your pocket and phone Steven. It rings out. You roll your eyes and try Marc’s number instead, incase he’s got the body right now. They have separate phones and refuse to answer each other’s if it rings. His goes straight to voicemail. That’s unusual. You check the time, 4pm. Steven will probably be getting ready to leave work. 

Needing to talk to someone you FaceTime Layla, she picks up almost straight away. 

“Y/N! Hey!” She says happily, her smile drops when she see’s your face. “What’s wrong?” 

“Hey, uh… sorry to call I just, I need to talk to someone and Steven and Marc aren’t answering and no one else will understand-”

“Y/N, you don't need to apologise. What’s happened?”

“Harrow’s gone.” You blurt out and she stares through the phone at you. “Someone took him from the hospital this morning, they don't know who did it and they have no idea where he is. I’m scared, Layla.”

“Hey, alright, it’s going to be alright.” She says, though her voice has a hint of panic. “And you can’t get through to Marc?” 

“His phone is off. I think Steven will be leaving work soon.”

“Okay, you head over to find him. I’ll keep trying his phone.” She says and you nod. “Y/N?” 

“Yeah.” 

“It’s gonna be okay.” She says and you get the feeling she’s trying reassure herself as much as she is you. You nod and she hangs up the phone before you start walking toward the road, looking for a taxi. 

In the distance you see a white limo heading towards you. Usually you’d think nothing of it. You see a lot of different vehicles in London. But something about this one got your attention. The personalised number plate. 

‘SPKTR’

You can’t help but stare at it as it gets closer to you. Something in your gut telling you to run. 

The car slows down as it gets closer to you and you can just about make out though the windows that the driver is wearing a flat cap. The limo pulls over and stops next to you. The driver gets out and you stare at him confused. 

“Marc…?” It’s definitely Marc’s body, but the expression isn’t Marc or Steven. It’s the same one you recognise from Egypt. The one who so easily fought and killed all Harrow’s disciples. Another alter?

“Hola, mi amor.” 

He winks at you as he walks around the front of the car, past you and opens the door at the back of the limo for you. He gestures for you to get in. You hesitantly walk to where the door is and peer in. You have to slam your hand over your mouth to stop a scream from escaping. 

There on the back seat is Harrow, a bullet hole in his forehead. 

You back away but the driver pushes you inside and slams the door closed. You scramble to get out, to get away from the corpse, but the door is locked. You bang against the door, screaming for someone to let you out and then you hear a voice from inside the limo. 

“Hello little bug.” 

A/N: Thank you so so so much for reading!! I really hope you enjoyed this series as much as I loved writing it. please feel free to comment or send me an ask, I would love to hear your thoughts :)

Taglist :  @sleepylunarwolf / @ahookedheroespureheart / @sleepyamaya / @spicydonut25 / @kult6 / @uncle-eggy / @malaanii/ @toracainz / @pinkiestwinkie / @galacticstxrdust / @mateihavenoidea / @xmariakx / @oscarissac2099 / @whycantwebefriendz / @parkeepingparker / @scoliobean

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

first draft of the final chapter of Bloody Beetle is done! needs editing and then will be posted in the next couple of days...

can't believe this story is coming to an end 🥺 Im gonna miss writing about creepy harrow & the moon boys

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Bloody Beetle | Part Nine

Summary: the afterlife is quite what you expected it to be

Pairing: Taweret x reader (platonic)

Word Count: 3.3k

Warnings: it's the afterlife y'all... you dead...

A/N: please note as much as I did some research into identity disorders, it may not he 100% factual and is supposed to be taken in context of the story... as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

Part Eight | Series Masterlist

- - - - -

Floating. 

You're floating in dark nothingness. 

Your body weightless. 

Your mind empty. 

Just… nothing…

Then you hear something in the distance. 

A voice. 

A name being called. 

Your name. 

Closer.

Closer.

The voice gets louder, angrier, as it gets closer…

“Y/N!”

— — — — 

Your head slips from your hand as you jump awake from your position, leaning against your work desk. Donna, your boss, stands on the other side of the desk, looking down at you disapprovingly. 

“Is this what we pay you for? Sleeping on the job?” She tuts before continuing to rant at you. You ignore her, looking around the familiar museum inventory room as you try to shake away your sleep. Broken remnants of a realistic feeling dream flash in your mind, like a puzzle missing half the pieces. 

You had been in Egypt, that much is clear. But what were you doing there? Lots of people, unknown faces looking at you with hatred. Scales. A glowing purple light. A crocodile? 

You’ll have to tell Steven about this dream when you see him. Maybe he’ll understand it more than you do. Then you realise, he’s not here. 

“Is Steven not in today?” You ask suddenly, not really caring that you’ve interrupted whatever rant Donna was on. 

“Who’s that?” she looks at you blankly and you laugh. 

“Ste-ven.” You repeat clearly, emphasising each syllable. “Steven Grant? You know, the Egypt guy. Works with me down here like, all the time.”

“I don't know who you're talking about.”

“Steven!” You shout, getting frustrated now. 

“Don't matter how many times you say it!” Donna is getting more annoyed by the second. “There is no Steven that works here.”

“Is this some sort of joke?! I know you don't like him very much but even by your standards this is cruel!” 

“Okay, you need to calm down or soon you won’t be working here either!”.

“I’ll show you, look!” You grab your mobile and open the photos app. To your horror there’s not a single one of Steven to be found. “No! Where is it?! I took one just the other day… he was wearing one of those stupid pharaoh headdress things we sell to the kids. It was right here-”

“Y/N!” Donna snaps, snatching your phone and putting it down on the desk. “I don't know want to hear any more about your imaginary friend, alright? You’re wasting my time as well as your own! So unless you wanna be looking for a new job I suggest you drop it.”

You're about to argue back, but think better of it. Arguing with Donna is like hitting your head against a brick wall. 

“You’re right, sorry..." You say sheepishly, playing along. “I just got confused. I think I might be coming down with something.” 

“It’s alright.” Donna looks at you unconvinced but accepts it anyway. “Forget about it and get back to work.”

“Yes boss.” You say and she walks away, glancing back at you suspiciously before she leaves. 

As soon as she’s gone you pick your mobile back up off the desk to message Steven, but when you search your messages all the ones from him are gone. So you head to the contacts and scroll down to ’S’. Sarah, Shaun, Simon, Stuart… where’s Steven? You scroll up, thinking maybe he’s saved under ‘G’ for Grant. Nothing.

You consider for a moment calling the police. But what would you say? ‘My friend has disappeared, but no one remembers him and I have no evidence he ever existed?’ They’d either laugh at you or lock you up. Maybe you are going crazy… 

No. Steven was real! You remember him. The sound of his laugh as he would tell you a really crap joke he'd heard. The way his eyes would light up when someone asked him a question about Egyptian history. The smell of cologne whenever he bumped into you, which was more often than you’d think. He really was quite clumsy. That was one of the things you loved about him. And one of the things you had in common. 

You decide to go find J.B. Surely he’ll must remember Steven, even if he does always called him ‘Scotty’. If all else fails, you could at least get him to check security cameras. 

But as you step out from behind the desk, you don't notice the large box on the floor and trip over it. You manage to stop yourself falling by clinging on to the desk, but you send the box flying across the room, the contents spilling out everywhere. It's filled with action figures that you sell in the gift shop. You pick one up. 

At first glance you think it’s a mummy but then you notice, it’s a man. A man dressed all in white and wearing a white cape. You take another figure out, almost the same but this one wearing a white suit. 

You dig deeper into the box. It’s full of figures. Some the same as the two you’ve already got. Some with the skull of a bird and holding a crescent moon staff. A lady with dark curly hair. A crocodile... Then you find one that makes your blood run cold. A man, wearing a reddish brown outfit and sandals. He has shoulder length dirty blonde hair, and he’s holding a glowing purple cane. 

“Harrow?” You whisper, the name coming to you out of nowhere.

An image fills your mind; Harrow stood in front of you, plunging a dagger into your stomach.

You look down and realise your clothes are stained red with blood. Your heart and mind starts to race. Something isn’t right. You need to get out of here. 

You run to the door, swing them open and crash straight into someone. You look up and to your surprise see a tall hippopotamus stood smiling wildly down at you. 

You freeze as the two of you stare at each other for a moment. The hippo raises its hand in a waving gesture. 

“Hi!” A female voice. She sounds friendly enough.

“Uh… h-hi?” you stutter, trying to remain calm. 

“You're not screaming.” She says. You're unsure if this is a statement or a question. 

“Am I supposed to be..?”

“No, not at all. I’m just used to people screaming when they first see me. To be fair death can be quite traumatic as it is so I suppose to then come face to face with, well, me… must be quite startling.” She laughs. “You're handling this amazingly. Well done you.”

“Death?” You ask and her face drops.

“You didn’t know?” She says and you shake your head. 

“I thought it was just a bad dream.”

“Oh dear. I am very sorry, but I am afraid you are quite dead. Oh hang on! I have a thing I’m supposed to read…” She pulls a scroll out from her robe and unravels it before beginning to read. “Welcome gentle traveller to the realm of the Duat. I am Tawaret, goddess of women and children and I am here to guide you through your journey to the afterlife.”

“Wait wait wait, if I’m dead then why am I at the museum? Shouldn’t I be, like, in heaven or something?”

“Because the Duat’s true nature is impossible for the human mind to comprehend, you may perceive this realm as something more easily recognisable to you. Was this place special to you?”

You think back through all the happy memories you have here, in this room laughing with Steven.

“Yeah, I suppose it is.” You say with a smile. “But hang on, Donna was here. My boss. She was here earlier having a go at me as usual. How is that possible? Is she dead too?” 

“This place can appear as real as you want it to. Whatever would normally be here will be here, that includes people. But rest assured, she is very much still alive.”

“Then where’s Steven? He was always here with me, but Donna didn’t even know who he was!”

“Steven? Steven Grant?” She asks.

“You know him?” 

“I do. Goodness, how do I explain this?” She says, mostly to herself. “Steven Grant isn’t real.”

“Of course he is!”

“No dear, uh…” she pauses, thinking over her words. “Do you know a Marc Spector?” 

“Kind of. Not very well, but we’ve met.”

“Right! So… Steven is Marc.”

“I don't understand.” 

“Marc created Steven when he was young to help him escape the trauma he was going through. He may not have even realised that that’s what he did, but whenever life got too much for Marc he would become Steven instead.”

“No hang on, Steven told me that this Marc lives inside him. Are you saying it’s the other way around?” 

“Steven really believed he was who he was. He had no idea the truth.” She watches you for a moment. Watches as your brain ticks over everything and sadly the truth sets in. “I think deep down, somewhere, subconsciously a part of you knew. That’s why he’s not here. The Duat picked up on it.”

She was right. Ever since that night when Marc first spoke to you, a small part of you had wondered. Harrow had tried to tell you, in his own manipulative way. You just didn’t want to believe it; Steven wasn’t real. 

“I wish he was here.” You say sadly. Taweret puts a caring hand on your shoulder. 

“I know dear, this is a lot to take in. But as I said, you are handling this exceedingly well.” She smiles at you, holding out her hand. “Come, let me show you around.”

— — — — 

You follow Tawaret through the doors and to your surprise you're no longer in the museum. Instead you find yourself on a magnificent wooden boat sailing through sand.

“Where are we going?” You ask, staring out at the the amazing blend of purple, blue and gold that makes up the sky. It would take your breath away, if you weren’t already dead. 

“Hopefully to the Field of Reeds.”

“Hopefully?” 

“Yes, there’s just something I have to do…” she places her hand on your chest and pushes, reaching inside you and when she pulls her hand back out she’s holding your heart. You watch in shock as she away from you and places the heart on a scale. She takes a feather and places it on the other side of the scale. The scales swing a few times before settling in a balanced position. 

“Oh goody.” Taweret smiles. “I would have hated to have to throw you overboard.” 

“Excuse me what?”

“If they scales hadn’t balanced, you would not be permitted entry to the Field of Reeds. The dead would have dragged you down into the Duat where you would have remained forever frozen in sand.” She explains and you stare at her in horror. “But the scales are balanced, so no need to dwell on that.” 

You walk to the edge of the boat and look over at the sand below you. You can just about make out the shapes of human figures half buried in the sands, hands desperately reaching for something to grab onto. It sends a shiver down your spine. Taweret moves to stand beside you. 

“All these people had unbalanced scales?” You ask sadly.

“I’m afraid so.” 

“Do the scales ever get it wrong?” 

“That’s not possible.” Taweret says looking at you, she notices you look troubled. “Are you alright?”

“When Harrow judged me with Ammit’s scales, they were unbalanced.”

“Ammit is wrong. She judges based on things that might happen, what someone might do. We judge on what you have done." She turns to face you completely, putting her hands on your shoulder so you have to face her. She looks you in the face. "Believe me when I say, you are a good person Y/N Y/L/N.” 

“Thank you.” You say with teary eyes as the boat continues its journey. 

— — — — 

Eventually you arrive at the most beautiful place you have ever seen.

“Welcome to the Field of Reeds.” 

It’s indescribable. An endless view of golden warmth. Peace like you’ve never felt before. 

“It’s… I don't have the words…” 

“Enjoy it. You belong here.” 

You smile up at her. 

The peace doesn’t last long however, when suddenly you hear a familiar voice calling from a distance behind you. 

“Hey! Hey, hippo lady! You gotta take me back!”

You turn to where the voice is coming from. 

“Not this again.” Taweret sighs.

“Marc?!” You interrupt as you realise who is running toward you. He stops when he notices you. 

“Y/N? What- what are you doing here?” 

“Same as you.” You respond bluntly. “Harrow killed me.”

A range of emotions flash across Marc’s face. Anger and sadness being the mains ones. 

“I’m sorry.” He says simply, before turning his attention back to the hippopotamus next to you. 

“There’s nothing I can do Marc.” Taweret says before he can even ask. “Steven is gone.”

“What?” You look between Taweret and Marc in a panic, but Marc turns away from you. “What do you mean he’s gone?”

“The Duat has him.” Taweret explains. “When Marc died, the Duat split him and Steven into their own separate bodies in order to fairly judge their lives.”

“So Steven is one of those bodies in the sand?” You say in horror and she nods. “We can go back for him though? Right?!”

“It doesn’t work like that. If you leave here you can’t return.” She looks at Marc. “Please, enjoy your peace.”

Marc turns around angrily. 

“Peace?! There is no peace without Steven!”

“You don’t need him anymore Marc. You created Steven when you needed to cope with the worst parts of your life, but that’s over now.” She says, her voice gentle.

“So I get to go on to eternal peace, and he just…” Marc pauses. “Stays lost in the sand forever?”

A tear escapes down your cheek at the thought of Steven being one of those desperate figures you saw in the sand on the way here. Even though you now understand that Steven was only ever a personality created by Marc, he still felt real to you. You only really knew Steven. Your goofy, lovable, Egypt obsessed friend. 

“No.” Marc says suddenly. “I’m not good with that.” 

“Wait!” Taweret calls as Marc begins to walk off. “Think about this!” 

You watch him for a moment before turning to Taweret. She shakes her head at you, warning you. But you ignore her and run to catch up with him.

“What are you gonna do?” You ask. 

“I’m gonna get Steven back.” 

“Then I’m coming too.”

“Are you sure?” He stops and turns to you. It’s still so weird seeing Steven’s face but hearing Marc’s voice. “I can’t guarantee this will go well.” 

“He’d do it for it me.” You say and Marc nods.

The world around you starts to swirl. The golden sky turns dark and the reeds change to sand. Just ahead of you you spot him. Steven. Now one of the figures stuck in the sand. The two of you run over to him. His frozen hand is reaching out in front of him, a look of pain on his face. Marc crouches in front of him. 

“Steven. Looking pretty rough man.” He cries. “I don't know if you can hear me… From the moment you arrived, way back then, we were so young… You saved me. I survived because I knew I wasn’t alone. You were always there, alive, full of hope. I tried to protect that, and I failed. I couldn’t protect you.”

You feel a strange sensation in your feet and look down to see they’ve started to turn to ice, like Steven. Then you notice Marc’s hands have also started to change. 

“You didn’t abandon me.” He looks down at his frozen hand. “You didn’t abandon me. And although that field back there was looking pretty good, there’s no way in hell I’m gonna abandon you.” 

He tried to reach his hand up to hold Steven’s but his arm goes stiff. He looks at you and nods his head to gesture for you to come over. You crouch down beside him, looking into Steven’s terrified eyes.

“Hey Stevo. It’s Y/N. You know, Marc is right. You would never abandon the people you care about. How many times you stayed later than you needed to at work, just so I didn’t have to do inventory on my own.” You laugh as tears stream down your cheeks. “And I know you wouldn’t have left me with Harrow unless you had no choice. Because you are the best person I’ve ever met. You don't believe it, but you are. I should have told you that when we were alive. I should have told you how much you mean to me.” The feeling of your body quickly changing to ice spreading up your legs and arms. You manage to lift your hand to hold Steven’s.

Your body has completely changed now, only your head remains. You look at Marc. He reaches his hand up and places it over yours and Steven’s.

“You are the only real superpower I ever had.” He says to Steven as the ice takes over, freezing his head completely. 

You feel it creeping up the sides of your face. You fix your eyes on Steven and manage to whisper three little words as the last part of you becomes frozen in the sand.

“I love you.” 

— — — — 

The worst thing about being frozen in the Duat wasn’t actually the being frozen, but rather the fact that you were conscious the whole time. Forced to stare into the frozen eyes of the man you love, but unable to move or speak to him. 

All concept of time goes out the window. You have no idea how long you’ve been stuck like this, when suddenly you're aware of a rumbling sound and bright light shining to the side of you. As the light hits the side of your face its like warmth is being restored to your body. The ice melts away and you take a deep breath as life is restored to your body. 

You look over to see the giant ornate gates have opened, light pouring through them. You turn back to look at Steven, the ice is starting to melt from him.

“Steven…” you whisper and he looks at you, taking a big breath of air into his thawed body. 

“Y/N…” he smiles and hugs you before turning to a now unfrozen Marc. “Marc!” 

“Steven!” He says happily.

“You came back? What the hell’s wrong with you?!” Steven says, smiling as he helps Marc stand.

“Well I did a whole little speech there.” 

“It wasn’t that little.” Steven laughs, pulling Marc in for a hug. He turns to you, holding out his hand to help you stand. “I heard yours too.”

“I meant every word.” You say sincerely, looking into his eyes and he smiles as he gently places a hand on your cheek. 

“I love you too.” He whispers.

“Uh, guys.” Marc says from beside you. “As lovely as this moment is… we have a problem.”

You both turn to see what Marc is looking at. A giant sandstorm wave heading straight towards you. 

“Oh bollocks!” Steven shouts. “Come on, lets go!”

The three of you start to run, Marc struggling as his leg seems to be injured. Steven hooks one of Marc’s arms over his shoulder and you do the same on the other side.

“I’m slowing us down, just go!” Marc shouts.

“We’re not leaving you!” You reply, almost dragging him now. 

“Coming through!” You hear and turn around to see Taweret on her ship sailing towards you. “Osiris you old softie!” She calls as she crashes through the wave, slowing it down to give you time. “Now run!!” She shouts. 

“Hippo!!” Steven shouts, waving his hands in the air before Marc grabs him and pulls you all towards the gates. You run with all the strength you can muster and finally make it through the gates. 

— — — — 

“Where am I?” You ask aloud, glancing at the bright white nothingness around you. “Steven? Marc? Anyone?”

“Y/N Y/L/N.” A voice calls from everywhere at once.

“Hello?” You respond. 

“I am Osiris, god of the underworld.”

Part Ten

Taglist :  @sleepylunarwolf / @ahookedheroespureheart / @sleepyamaya / @spicydonut25 / @kult6 / @uncle-eggy / @malaanii/ @toracainz / @pinkiestwinkie / @galacticstxrdust / @mateihavenoidea / @xmariakx / @oscarissac2099 / @whycantwebefriendz / @parkeepingparker

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[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Bloody Beetle | Part Eight

Summary: you and Layla race to free Khonshu, before Harrow frees Ammit

Pairing: none really

Word Count: 1.8k

Warnings: Ammit being manipulative, Harrow being Harrow, death...

A/N: can't lie, I barely proof read this because I just wanted to get it posted. im sorry it took so long!! as always spelling and grammar are not my strongest skills so please be kind :)

Part Seven | Series Masterlist

- - - - -

“Layla?” Your voice sounds as weak as you feel as you look up at Layla. Her face full of concern as she moves the blanket that Harrow used to cover you. 

“Oh thank God” she breathes a sigh of relief, helping you to get up out of the car. “What did he do to you?” 

“I’ll explain later. We have to stop him!” 

Layla explains her plan to you as the two of you make your way up the side of the pyramid to the opening created by Harrow. Get inside, find and realise Khonsu. Hope that he can somehow bring Marc back. The weakness in your body caused by his staff makes you stumble on the bricks a few times, but Layla helps you and eventually you make it inside the pyramid. Avoiding Harrow and his disciples you find the place where Khonshu’s ushabti is kept. You peer around the wall to see Harrow smash Ammit’s ushabti on the ground. Bright purple smoke swirls through the tomb as the giant crocodile goddess appears. Harrow and his disciples kneel before her. She is terrifying. 

“Got it!” Layla say as she grabs Khonshu’s ushabti, places it on the ground and stamps on it. Smoke pours out of it and forms a tall figure with a bird skull for a head, holding a large crescent moon staff. He looks down at the two of you. 

“I do not sense Marc Spector in this world. He died fighting no doubt.”

“Fighting your war!” Layla replies angrily.

“Can you bring him back?” You ask.

“I don't know. If Marc is truly gone, I am in need of an avatar. Would you Layla El-Faouly protect the travellers of the night…”

“Are you joking?!” She hisses. “You turned Marc’s life into a waking nightmare. Why would I ever sign up for that?”

“Because you won’t win against Harrow and Ammit alone.” 

“I’ll take my chances.”

Khonshu looks at you and you just shake your head. He sighs. 

“Marc was in crisis over you two. His lack of focus got him killed. You need a plan, little bugs. What I offer…”

“I don't care what you can offer. Marc didn’t trust you. We don't trust you.” Layla takes a step closer to him now. “We will work together without you enslaving us.”

“We must rebind Ammit. Only an avatar can do it.”

“We said no.” 

Khonshu sighs before disappearing in a swirl of smoke. You peer back around the wall again in time to see Khonshu appear in front of Ammit, blocking her and her disciples from leaving. Harrow looks around. 

“There’s someone else here. Find who released him.” Harrow orders and his disciples split off to start searching. 

“Khonshu’s just given us away. We don't have much time before they find us.” You whisper to Layla as you move back behind the stone wall. “We need a plan.” 

Layla takes a look around the wall before turning back to you. “Osiris’ avatar is still alive. If I could get to him he may be able to help.” You move closer to her, peering around to see the injured man struggling to drag himself across the ground. Looking around you see two of Ammit’s disciples getting closer. 

“They’re getting closer.” 

“We need a distraction.” Layla thinks out loud and you get an idea. You don't like it and you're not totally sure it will work but it’s all you’ve got right now. 

“Okay.” Is all you say before you move to step out from behind the wall.

"What are you doing?” Layla grabs your arm. “They will kill you.” 

“He won’t.” You look her in the eyes. “Harrow won’t hurt me.”

“He already has, I mean, look at you. You can barely stand.”

“What other choice do we have? If they get to that man they will kill him. If they find you they will kill you too. But Harrow…” you pause, not wanting to admit what you're about to say “Harrow has feelings for me. He admitted it. He won’t let them hurt me.”

“Are you sure about this?” Layla asks after a moment. 

“What other choice do we have?” You repeat, sadder this time and Layla just stares back at you. She knows you're right. “Do what you can to save them.”

Layla nods and gives you a hug before you pull away and step out. You take a few short painful steps before the two disciples spot you and come running over, harshly grabbing your arms and dragging you away. You glance over your shoulder just in time to see Layla pulling the injured avatar to safety. At least the distraction worked. 

— — — — 

“We found her.” 

“Y/N?” Harrow looks at you in horror. “How are you here?” 

“Guess I’m stronger than you think.”

“And who do we have here?” Ammit clicks and the disciples holding you push you to the ground, forcing you to kneel. You wince as your knees hit the cold stone floor and you keep your head down, not wanting anyone to see the pain on your face. You feel a clawed hand stroke the back of your head. “Look at me, little weakling.” When you don't do as she says, her fingers grip your hair and pull you head back so your forced to look up at her scaly green face. Her yellow eyes piercing into yours. “I recognise you. I’ve seen your scales before. And yet here you are, still breathing… Why is that?” 

She whips her head to the side to face Harrow, but her grip remains firm on you. 

“My goddess, forgive me.” Harrow says. You glance at him, he looks visibly shaken.

“You kept this one alive?” Ammit asks and Harrow nods. “ Despite my orders. Explain yourself.” 

“He kept her alive cause he fancies her.” A voice in the crowd calls out before Arthur has chance to speak, one of the disciples steps forward. “I’d have happily done it for him, but he told us anyone who hurt her would be dead.” You understand now why everyone avoided you at meal times and around the camp. Harrow had threatened them. 

“It’s true, I do have feelings for her.” Harrow says. “My heart cares for her more than anyone I have encountered before. And that has stopped me from carrying out my duty to you, my goddess. I understand if you decide that I am unfit to be your avatar and choose someone else to carry out what lies ahead.”

“Hmmmm” a low, almost growl like hum comes from Ammit as she loosens her grip slightly, caressing your hair as she thinks. “You are only human.” She moves her hand around to stroke your face “All humans have weakness, and she is yours.” She lets go of you and you slump down slightly, your body aching still kneeling on the ground as she walks toward Harrow. “Up until now you have proved yourself to be loyal, you have judged a great many unbalanced souls in my name. Therefore you won’t be punished.” 

“Thank you goddess-” Harrow starts but Ammit places one of her large fingers on his lips.

“But there is something you must do before we continue.” She leans down close to him and whispers something, causing Harrow to widen his eyes as he stares at you. She holds out her hand. A small ornate dagger appears in it. 

“I can’t.” Harrow is shaking.

“You must.” Is all she says as she hands him the dagger and steps back to watch. He looks at you and you know what she has told him to do. 

He has to kill you. 

“You don't have to do this.” You say quietly as he begins to slowly walk towards you, gripping the dagger tightly in his trembling hands. “Remember what you said to me in the car, what you told me. Why you kept me alive.”

“She doesn’t deserve this, she hasn’t done anything wrong.” Harrow says, turning his back on you to face Ammit.

“But she will.” Ammit replies.

“Spare her. Please.” He stands in front of you now, almost shielding you from her view as you cower on the floor behind him. “I beg you goddess, spare her life like you spared mine and I will never question you again.”

“She has to die.”

“WHY?!” Harrow shouts now. “What could she possibly do in the future that is so bad that she deserves this?!” 

“She will be the one to kill you.” 

An eery silence falls on the room.

“No” you say quietly as you try to stand, your legs wobbling under you “no, no, I- I wouldn’t do that. I wouldn’t kill anyone. I couldn’t, Arthur I would never-”

He turns to face you, the shock making you stumble backwards, you trip over yourself and fall back down.

“You love her, but she doesn’t love you.” Ammit says. “I’ve seen in her heart. She doesn’t even like you. She pretends to tolerate you so that you’ll keep her alive. But in the end, she will betray you. And it will be your undoing.”

“She’s lying.” You stare up at him as he stands over you. There’s pain and betrayal in his face. He believes her. “She’s manipulating you Arthur!” 

“How long have you known me? How long have you known her?” Ammit purrs as she comes to stand behind Harrow. “When have I ever lied to you?”

He continues to look at you without speaking. 

“I’m not going to kill you.” You say, shaking your head. “Please… Arthur…”

He holds his empty hand out for you to take. You let out a small sigh, placing your hand in his. He gently pulls you up so you're almost standing face to face with him, and you give him a small smile.

“I’m sorry.” He whispers, a quick flash of purple light in his eyes.

Suddenly the wind is knocked from you as the dagger plunges into your stomach. You place your hands where the pain is, looking down to see them coated in red.

“Arthur…” you look back at him again in shock, Ammit’s face smiling over his shoulder as you drop back down to the ground, curling up on yourself into a ball.

“Now you have proven your loyalty to me, we can begin to cleanse the world.” Ammit says, turning her back on you and walking towards the exit. Harrow continues to look down coldly at you for a moment before turning away and following Ammit out of the tomb, leaving you to die. 

You hear your name and roll over just in time to see Layla running towards you before you can no longer keep your eyes open and you finally slip away into darkness. 

the end

...just kidding... Part Nine :)

Taglist :  @sleepylunarwolf / @ahookedheroespureheart / @sleepyamaya / @spicydonut25 / @kult6 / @uncle-eggy / @malaanii/ @toracainz / @pinkiestwinkie / @galacticstxrdust / @mateihavenoidea / @xmariakx / @oscarissac2099 / @whycantwebefriendz / @parkeepingparker

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[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

Fanfic writers are like crows. If you give them treats (comments) they will bring you shiny things (fanfic)

[worldserasingandcreatinginmymind]

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