moth-writing-pit

[moth-writing-pit]

"Between the Evermaw's Teeth"

!! Gore, Rotten food, Disturbing imagery, Teens die. Also pretty long winded !!

You've been warned.

Charlie and his older brother Vincent lived in the small town of Willowmire. Willowmire being a fairly small town in the mid-south east of the US. Willowmire was well known for its odd curfews and an even odder legend regarding the dense forest that surrounds the town. That legend being the legend of the Evermaw. A supposedly cautionary tale about an inhuman creature that uses illusions and manipulation to hunt.

According to the legend, somewhere deep in the woods lies a cozy, incredibly welcoming cabin. In which lives a tall, fluffy vaguely insectile humanoid creature who acts motherly to lure her next meal. Vincent never really believed the legend and always thought it was a cheap excuse to keep kids from getting lost while playing in the woods. Charlie had doubts of his own but he never spoke up about them like his brother did. Charlie was also more unnerved by the idea of some terrifying creature acting all sweet and motherly as its lure than Vincent was. Sometimes Charlie wondered if Vincent feared anything at all.

Their Mother, Lily told them constantly to avoid the forest when they could and if they did have to go in there to not go too far. The brothers both listened to their mother, for the most part. Vincent was the antsy, rebellious teen he sounds like. Meanwhile Charlie was a quiet and very keep to himself teen. The boys weren't that far apart in age, Vincent was 16 and Charlie had just turned 15.

¨Vincent don´t go into the woods and keep your brother safe!¨ Lily called after her troublesome eldest son and timid youngest. Lily heard a reply that could only really be described as half-hearted and sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of her nose and turning back to her paperwork.

Charlie tagged along as Vincent gathered their friends.Vincent and Charlie hung around some of the same people. The brothers didn't do everything together but they did enjoy spending time with mutuals together.

The group now consisted of Vincent, Lance who everyone just called ¨Ox¨, Alex, and of course Charlie. The little group of friends hung out pretty much daily. Their close bond was only reinforced by the fact that they all went to the same school and had at least one class all together. They were walking around in a clearing just behind the elementary school playground and talking about exciting new events, peers, and whatever else they could think to talk about. Eventually the conversation led into the town legend.

¨So what if she was real? What do you think she would call herself when she's being all motherly?¨ Ox inquired, throwing a fist-sized rock into the seemingly endless darkness of the forest in front of them. There was a collective pause as the rock thunked against an unseen tree.

¨Obviously Mother somethin´, else it don't make sense,¨ Alex pointed out as she looked into the same darkness cloaked foliage as the boys. Charlie absentmindedly nodded in agreement but made no comment. Ox nodded thoughtfully but Vincent rolled his eyes. He jumped onto a barren stump just barely outside of the line of trees.

¨I think it would just call itself the Evermaw, it's got no real reason to be all dodgy about it if it was real,¨ Vincent announced triumphantly, earning nearly a completely collective groan. For the next ten minutes or so Alex and Vincent fought about whether or not the Evermaw would call itself something sweet and welcoming or just be upfront. Then again it could have been longer or shorter, Charlie couldn´t say for certain as his mind and attention was elsewhere. He jumped slightly when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned and relaxed seeing that it was just Ox.

¨You alright little ember? You seem . . Off,¨ Ox sat down next to Charlie, his hand remaining on his friend's shoulder. Ox had nicknames for both brothers, Charlie being little ember and Vincent being wildfire. Why both names were flame related was beyond Charlie. He'd always guessed it was due to both brothers having vivid ginger hair which did look rather fiery in some lighting. Whatever the actual reason, Charlie always found Ox´s nicknames for people and objects endearing and cute.

¨Y-yeah, I´m okay. I just. . well I dunno it feels weird hearing you guys talk about the um l-legend so casually. I mean when you think about it, it would be absolutely sleep murdering on the off chance the creature is real!¨ Charlie took a deep breath to calm down and gave Ox a weak smile. ¨The Evermaw just really creeps me out. I know it probably isn't real but it's still an unnerving story, y´know?¨ Charlie murmured softly, slightly leaning into Ox´s touch. Ox nodded understandingly and pulled Charlie into a tender hug. Charlie let his lips tug into a thin smile as he rested his head on Ox´s shoulder. Alex and Vincent stopped arguing and looked over at Ox and Charlie. Vincent rolled his eyes at the sweet sight while Alex playfully sneered at the two.

¨Are we gonna do stuff or are you two too busy being gay?¨ She called out, earning a startled squeak from Charlie and a hearty little chuckle from Ox. The group never took comments like those very seriously. Alex always jokingly poked at Ox and Charlie for being platonically affectionate but she never really meant harm. ¨Seriously though, what do we do now? It's not like we can do all that much without going into the woods or causing trouble,¨ She asked the boys in a more serious, if slightly bored tone.

¨I say we head out there. The Evermaw isn't real so we should be fine to just go explore between the trees, right?¨ Vincent blurted out, glancing hopefully at the others. Alex narrowed her eyes at him. Ox raised an eyebrow.

¨Guys, what if we go in there and prove its not real?¨

¨Could be fun now that I think about it. I´m on board¨ Ox gave a lazy stretch as he drew himself to his feet. He offered Charlie his hand and helped him up to his feet as well. Alex´s face scrunched up as if she had just caught wind of a particularly foul smell. Her shoulders tense a tad before easing. Charlie tilted his head curiously at her.

¨Don't be stupid. If we go in there and the Evermaw is real then we´re as good as dead. We really shouldn't. Besides when our parents learn we went into the forest without tellin´ nobody, we´ll surely be in deeper than deep trouble,¨ She murmured warily, side-eyeing the foliage in front of them all. Vincent shrugged like her statement didn't bother him in the slightest.

¨All the more reason to prove it right? And if it was real then we just stay out of the cabin, simple¨ His air of confidence was infectious, encouraging his friends and brother to have faith in him. Ox and Alex nodded in agreement but Charlie was growing more and more nervous. Charlie´s heart sank as he swore he saw a pair of glossy amber eyes watching them from the forest. He took a double-take and his body automatically moved towards the treeline without his mind willing it to. It was just a trick of his mind, surely. ¨Wow, even little ol´ Chars is on board! That settles it, lets go guys. To prove the Evermaw ain't real!¨

* * *

The four went much deeper into the forest than they thought they would ever end up. Charlie stayed close by Ox´s side while the group walked. Vincent was naturally the self-appointed leader of the group, trotting forward confidently. There was pretty much no chance they weren't lost, as Vincent wasn't known for having a keen sense of direction. The further the four traveled, the darker the forest seemed to get. The canopy wasn't that thick, was it?

The sound of wild animals and whistling wind was eerily quiet. It almost felt as if the foliage itself was trying to get them to turn back and leave. The chirping of birds was softer than normal, like the birds were speaking in wary, frightened voices. Even the skittering of bugs seemed frantically afraid. The musty smell in the air could only be described as old, stale leaves. It was peaceful but not in a comforting way. It was unnerving and made Charlie's stomach churn.

Eventually the four found themselves in a circular clearing with a particularly cozy and welcoming cabin in the center. Charlie´s eyes widen to the size of dinner plates. It was either a really weird coincidence or the Evermaw was actually real.

¨G-guys we should go b-back home,¨ Charlie squeaked frantically, subconsciously grabbing Ox´s hand and squeezing it tightly. Charlie didn't notice his body was shaking.

¨Are you kiddin´? Lets go inside!¨ Vincent grinned his reckless grin, already stepping toward the cabin. Alex tugged Vincent back, her hand firmly on his shoulder. He frowned at her, opening his mouth to argue but out of the blue they all heard the wind howl furiously. The sudden gust of chilly wind sent a shiver down all of their spines.

¨Stop, wait, You´re the one who said we wouldn't go in, remember? Should we..¨ Alex trialed off, her gaze darting between the cabin and the foliage around them. Vincent knew what he had said earlier but the burning curiosity was overpowering the sense of apprehension.

¨Yeah well, there's only one way to prove it ain't real, right?¨ It sounded as if he was trying to convince himself more than the others. Vincent didn't wait for an answer as he stepped along the cobblestone path leading up to the front door and twisted the knob. He looked back at his friends before pushing forward and going inside. Alex went in next. Charlie hesitated, his breathing growing shallow. Ox gave him a reassuring smile and took his hand in his own, walking into the cabin with Charlie.

The four were greeted by a cozy sight and the warm scent of fresh baked pie. The beige-y cream walls were decorated with elegant vines painted by a steady hand. Occasionally the beige-y cream and sage green was broken by equally elegantly painted flowers of different shapes, sizes and colors. There were a few empty frames here and there. Strangely enough the glass of each frame was cracked in some way. The few frames that did have a picture seemed to only display kitchen knives.

Charlie and Ox explored around, finding themselves in a miniature library sort of room. There was a board pinned with many, many loose-leaf papers, all with some depiction of an insectile humanoid. Charlie´s heart sank when he saw the drawings. He recognized some of them. The drawings were all varying interpretations of the Evermaw. Charlie swallowed down his paranoia. Surely it was just a coincidence. Maybe the cabin owner was just really interested in the legend of the Evermaw in particular.

Alex and Vincent Moved to a dining room. In the center of the dining room was a large round table. On top of the table and below the peachy-pink cover were several pie dishes and plates of cupcakes, even a bowl of various fruits. The two grinned at each other and both took a cupcake, biting into it without a second thought. The taste of the cupcakes was a pleasant mixture of vanilla and cinnamon with a hint of orange. The frosting seemed to be a different flavor for each color. The frosting was also surprisingly shiny, almost like a puddle of blood glistening in dim light.

Alex and Vincent were caught off guard by the sound of soft footsteps on floorboards and the front door closing. The owner of the cabin had come home. They haven't really been there that long, have they? Alex and Vincent both dropped whatever food they had in hand and scrambled under the table in a last ditch effort to hide before being seen. The footsteps crept closer then stopped. From under the table Alex and Vincent could partially see the owner of the cabin standing in the doorway.

¨Oh my, it seems I have guests. There´s no need to hide dearies,¨ An unfamiliar but gentle and alluring feminine voice beckoned from the doorway. Vincent moved before Alex did. He got up from under the table and faced the owner of the cabin. The figure definitely wasn't human, looking more like some kind of fuzzy bipedal insectile. She had soft, silky fur of a light blue-ish indigo hue with lighter gradients here and there. Her eyes were a lovely amber color complimented by faintly yellow eyelashes. She didn't have a visible nose but her ears were visible and were more like the antenna of a moth than anything else. ¨You may call me Ms. Eve by the way, or perhaps even mother if you wish,¨ She said assuringly. While she spoke both Alex and Vincent felt more calm, her voice was soothing reminding both of a music box.

¨Oh uh okay then. Sorry about eating your food and barging in while you were away Mrs. Eve,¨ Vincent timidly apologized. Alex stood by his side. She nodded as he apologized but Alex and Vincent both knew they really hadn't meant it, or at least Alex wasn't particularly sorry.

¨Ms. Eve. And I don't mind all that much, dearies. In fact, make yourselves comfortable and eat as much as you want¨ Vincent and Alex lit up as she welcomed them to get comfortable and went right back to the assorted sweets and baked goods. Ms. Eve made her way to the kitchen but stopped when she heard muffled murmurs from behind her make-shift home library. She couldn't make out the words but she could tell there were two voices. She continued on her way to the kitchen. Ms. Eve hummed to herself as she gathered sugar and flour from the cabinets. There were four of them.

Charlie was startled when Ox suddenly took him by the hand. He raised an eyebrow at his friend and Ox dropped his hand sheepishly, giving him a warm, reassuring smile. Odd but nothing too weird. At least if you asked Ox. Charlie returned Ox´s smile but wasn't entirely convinced that everything was as okay as the smile wanted to portray. Ox let his smile drop and his gaze wandered to the board of Evermaw drawings. Neither boy had said anything about the board but it weighed strongly in their minds. Ox was incredibly unnerved since he noticed it. Pieces were falling in place and Ox didn't want them to. It was already creepy that the cabin the friend group was all too similar to the core aspects of the legend but it was even creepier and uncanny that in the cabin was a board of drawings of the Evermaw. All of Ox´s instincts were screaming to gather his friends and book it home. But he was sure he was just overthinking. There was no reason to be so uneasy, right?

¨Hey Ox, I´m gonna go check on Vince and Alex. Are.. Are you gonna be okay alone?¨ Charlie asked gently, looking into Ox´s eyes with trust and concern. Ox nodded and gave Charlie another reassuring smile. Charlie spread his arms wide, offering Ox a hug and he happily took it, embracing Charlie tightly.

As Charlie walked out into the hall he heard the sound of humming from the kitchen. He curiously stepped toward the kitchen. His heart dropped and he nearly screamed when he saw Ms. Eve rolling out dough on the kitchen table. Charlie hadn´t screamed, mainly due to spit and fear catching in his throat but he also held back because it would be rude. Ms. Eve didn't look up from her task or even make any indication that she had noticed Charlie standing in the doorway of the kitchen. Charlie backpedaled and made his way to the dining room where he found Alex and Vincent happily eating sweets and baked goods.

¨Oh hey Char, have you met Ms. Eve? She's real nice, wasn't even mad about the whole barging into her cabin thing,¨ Alex mumbled between chews as she watched Charlie nervously step closer to her and Vincent as if the ground was coated thoroughly in eggshells. His eyebrows raised in surprise. The thing from the kitchen wasn't mad that they had invaded her home while she was gone? Vincent nodded affirmatively as if he had read Charlie´s mind. Charlie felt a small smile tug at his lips as he picked up a cupcake. He was a bit hungry and the food did look real good. What would be the harm in trying a few sweet treats?

Ox felt a sharp pain behind his eyes. He blinked and his hands automatically reached up to rub his eyes. He had lost track of time, too busy reading and digging through the make-shift library. Ox took one glance at the board of Evermaw drawings and realized it was suddenly different. All of the loose-leaf papers had some kind of bloody handprint on them. The smell too changed. It was like the air had grown stale trying to suppress some awful smell but had long given up. Ox managed to keep from gagging and pushed the door open, bolting to the dining room.

The sight before him was one he wanted to forget immediately. All three of his friends were stuffing their faces with moldy fruit and treats with rotten or raw meats baked into them. One or three masses of sugar and meat seemed to have fingers or eyeballs poking through. Ox clutched his stomach, his mouth hanging open in horror and disgust at what he was seeing. From the hallway a large and horrible humanoid creature stepped into the room carrying another pie tin of pie crust and rotten, maggot-infested meat.

The creature was covered in matted, wiry fur of a dusty blue-ish indigo hue with very faint lighter gradients here and there. Its hands were stained with both new and old blood. Its eyes were a piercing almost neon amber color, seemingly glowing in the dim light. The eyes themselves were glossy and perfectly round. They looked more like plastic glowing orbs than eyeballs, not to mention they seemed just a little too small for their sockets. The mouth on its face was contorted into a smile that should have broken its face. The most notable trait of the living nightmare before him was the vertical mouth on its torso stretching down its abdomen and filled with hundreds if not thousands of sharp teeth of various sizes. Its teeth were all pearly white despite the lips and fur around them being stained red. The legend was true.

The Evermaw was real and Ox and his friends were right there in its cabin. Then Ox felt that same sharp pain behind his eyes. When his eyes opened everything was perfectly fine. The rancid smell was gone, the food on the table looked perfectly fine and edible. Not a single finger or eyeball to be seen. Even the creature Ox could only assume was the Evermaw looked much less nightmare-inducing and horrible. What was that nightmare-ish world he had seen? Was he going crazy?

¨Ox are you okay? You look like you´ve seen a ghost. .. or whatever's worse than a ghost.. Either way you´re looking pale,¨ Charlie´s voice was heavily laced with concern and he was the first to move to Ox´s side. Charlie took Ox´s hand in his own just like Ox had done earlier in the make-shift library. For several moments Ox felt like he was a statue. His body wouldn't move and his voice wouldn't let out even a squeak.

¨Yes, you look as if you´re going to be sick dearie,¨ Ms. Eve agreed, putting the pie down and taking a step closer to Charlie and Ox. Her eyes glinted unreadably as she observed Ox´s frightened form. Her expression was that of concern but something about it seemed ingenuine. Ox gulped but said nothing to either Charlie or Ms. Eve. His heart was still racing and he was still trying to process what just happened. Not to mention the smell and sight was not something he would forget in a hurry. He finally snapped back to reality and noticed Ms. Eve was slowly stepping closer to him and Charlie. He gripped Charlie´s hand tighter and took a step back. Words still failed him so he shook his head. His head shook again and he stepped back once more.

¨I´m f-fine. I uh.. I was just being paranoid because I recently r-read something creepy about cabins in the woods,¨ Ox said frantically, trying to put on his easy going mask for his friends even though he knew they had seen his genuine fear. Ox stood off to the side as the others ate and joked about. Occasionally Charlie would come over and try to console him. Ox was grateful for Charlie´s support even if Charlie didn't entirely understand why Ox was so shaky and off put.

Ox´s gaze kept darting to Ms. Eve whenever she was in the room. He was understandably afraid considering the sight he saw. Ox tried to dismiss the sight as some mad hallucination but something buried beneath the churning nausea told him what he saw wasn't a trick of his mind. Ox decided to step outside to get some fresh air. He breathed the stale forest air deeply but felt no calmer. Nor did he feel any more sane than a few minutes ago. Ox took a few laps around the outside of the cabin. He lost track of time again, which was surprisingly easy to do out in the dead of the woods.

He started getting worried for his friends. He felt the same sharp pain behind his eyes and a sinking feeling in his gut rose to the surface. Ox rushed into the cabin only to find the Evermaw standing in plain view seemingly waiting for him. A long, slimy tendril flicked out the Evermaw´s larger central maw which took Ox a second to register as a tongue. His breath hitched when he saw several hundreds strands of hair trapped between its teeth. Ox recognized the mixture of chocolatey brown and flame orange tufts of hair.

¨Little ember..¨ his voice automatically croaked out. The Evermaw let out a sound halfway between a snarl, and purr and started stepping toward him. His heart skipped a beat and he staggered back, turning around and pushing himself to a sprint as fast as he could. The horrible nightmare behind him bent back, dropping to all fours with its stomach maw up and its tongue lolling out like a dead limb. It weaved through trees better than he did, gaining on him and closing the distance between them faster than he was even remotely comfortable with.

¨You can't run forever little morsel! You´ll grow too tired to flee and when you do momma will have the last little bite of today's fools!¨ The Evermaw gleefully bellowed behind him. Ox tried to run faster but his legs were already growing sore. He looked ahead for something, anything to fight or throw it off but the only things in front of him seemed to be trees, trees and more trees. Then Ox caught sight of an old bear trap. From what he could tell it was a little rusty but still functional. He rushed ahead to the bear trap and hurriedly scrambled to pick it up. The Evermaw was shortening the distance faster than he expected. Before long he was face to face with the Evermaw.

¨Don´t you wanna join your friends? I can reunite you with all three of them, even the scared little ginger you seemed to be fond of. He was the sweetest of the three.. I haven't had such raw terror in such a long time, it was delicious I must say,¨ It seemed to almost mock him as it rose to its feet and took slow, calculated steps closer.

Ox felt tears prick his eyes. Charlie, Alex, and Vincent were gone. All of them victims of an ancient monster's insatiable hunger. Ox gripped the bear trap tighter and without thinking shoved it into the Evermaw´s face. It reared back, shrieking horribly in agony as the trap snapped. Ox gagged when he saw a glossy, foul smelling viscous black liquid oozing out of the spots the bear trap teeth punctured and pierced the Evermaw. He didn't know how but with the bear trap he had managed to stab both of its eyes. He frantically looked around for anything that would help further injure or delay the creature.

He saw a shine that could only come from metal glinting in sunlight. Ox sprinted toward where he saw the glint. The Evermaw shrieked again and clawed at the bear trap secured on its face. It roared in both frustration and pain and gripped the back of the bear trap firmly and tugged. It tugged until the bear trap tore from its face. The bear trap clattered to the ground and the Evermaw panted heavily. The sight left after the removal of the bear trap couldn't be further from even the slightest semblance of pretty. Both of its eye sockets were empty save for drippin pools of the black ooze Ox could only assume was its blood and a large chunk of skin and fur was torn from its face. Ox swore he could even see glimpses of bone here and there. The Evermaw sniffed the air deeply and bent back again, an aimless cross of a scream and a snarl emitted from its gut maw as it started blindly scrambling toward him. It was probably following his scent.

Ox saw the horrible creature frantically running toward him and brought the ax in his hand up. When it was close enough he swung. Ox opened his eyes and looked down. The Evermaw´s head was cleanly severed and from the body´s neck the vicious black liquid oozed freely onto the ground. Ox dropped the ax and finally let the tears he was fighting back flow freely. It was over. The Evermaw was dead. Then again so were his three favorite people in the world. He would worry about going home in a few hours, right now he refused to move. He didn't even care if he didnt make it home. He merely fell to his knees and sobbed. And sobbed. And sobbed.

[moth-writing-pit]

"Cuddle Bugs"

Self indulgent work. My Sona and the Mothman. We love self shipping ♡

Fizz was twisted back in an unpleasant looking way, her antenna high and alert. Her tail periodically forming lips and baring said lips before they disappear into fur once more. The eyes in her face fixed on her own back.

Mothman stepped into the room and raised an eyebrow. "What exactly is this meant to accomplish?"

"Hm? Oh I'm just studying my spine"

"Why?"

"Bored"

He sat beside her, rubbing her side to coax her into a more normal position. She twisted back so her face and chest were turned in the same direction. Fizz happily nuzzled closer to Mothman, burying her face in the fluff around his neck.

He smiled softly, wrapping his feathery wings around her. Both could appreciate the softness of the other.

"This is nice.. I could cuddle you forever," He mumbled aloud, tilting his head to press his cheek against her head. The eyes scattered around her body crinkle in joy. Each one was focused on him. Having all of Fizz's eyes wasusually no easy feat but with him it was different. Besides, she didnt seem to have much else on her mind at the moment. "Although we should get some dinner"

"Noooo.. more cuddle time"

She bit one of his antenna, drawing a chirp from him. He returned the gesture. Mothman pressed his forehead to hers.

"Fizz my pumpkin.. sweet carbonated dear of mine. Dinner time"

"Fiiine.. what do you want?"

"What about pizza?"

"But then we have too cook"

"Shepherd's pie"

"We still have to cook but that sounds better"

♡ ♡ ♡

Fizz was curled in Mothman's arms, their tails curled around each other. He was periodically chirpping. Both enjoying the other's body heat.

Mothman hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead. She poked an eye open and purred softly. She tilted her head up and stole a kiss, grinning widely.

[moth-writing-pit]

"Whispers of Death"

Spooky Month oc and Kevin drabble. Open ending for possible follow ups

Solomon was humming to himself as he organized dried herbs on one of his shelves. The tune under his breath was an old lullaby his mother sang to him as a child. He often hummed it without noticing. The sound the bell at the door ringing snapped Solomon out of his idle tranquility. Someone was here.

"Hallo, how might I be of service today?" Solomon asked aloud, setting the bundles he hadn't set on the shelves in a box and moving to be in view of the newcomer. The man standing awkwardly just in front of the door was scrawny and looked tired. His dark hair had a swirl and he was dressed casually.

"Uh hey there.. I saw out front that you offer tarot readings and such?"

"Yes, this is true. Why so, would you like a reading done?"

"It's all malarky but I suppose I don't see why not.."

Solomon gave a kind smile. Sure, many people he encountered were skeptics but he could find patience in himself yet.

"what kind of reading would you like?"

"I don't know, just see what one card says, I guess?"

He nods and beckons him to the backroom. Solomon gestures for Kevin to sit. The candy clerc does so, timidly looking around the little room. One drawn card couldn't have that much of a impact, right?

Solomon sits himself down and shuffles the deck. Solomon guides Kevin's hand over the top card before releasing the candy clerc's hand and drawing the card. The now face-up card showed a vaguely humanoid figure and at the bottom read; "Death".

"Death? Oh good a card telling me I'm going to die"

"Amusing friend, but no. The Death Arcana usually gives the implication of change. However, given the reversal of the card's postion, Death speaks of stagnation. You're stuck in the past, you're haunted. Moving forward is the best course of action"

Kevin stiffened. The sharper dressed man wasn't wrong, he was having issues with those kids. Those always costumed kids who brought trouble anywhere they went.

"That's.. surprisingly accurate. Do one for yourself now. That has to be a coincidence!"

Solomon smile and flipped another card. The card depicted an ominous humanoid figure with "The Magician" written at the bottom. This one was facing kevin. Solomon frowned, his eyes fixed on the card.

"So what's it say about you?"

"In this draw, The Magician speaks of an illusion to be broken. Smoke and mirrors to come, keeping my witts about myself would be best"

Kevin politely nodded and put a ten dollar bil down. He walked off, leaving Solomon alone once in the shop.

[moth-writing-pit]

Penis

horny self indulgent. Man, smut is weird to write. Would I fuck my own design? You can bet your top dollar I would. Consider this a shit post. I apologize to all who read this, so y'know read at your own risk

Tanglelock watched from the center of town as 'Bug', the troublesome pest of a human who now took residence in town, was talking with Redwood. Redwood was undoubtibly soaking the human's attention like a sponge. Just thinking about it made their stomach flare with jealousy. Jealousy? Jealousy? Tanglelock had no reason to hold possessive feelings for the human. Sure, they had thought about pining Bug under themself, torturing her with anticipation and feeling every inch of her soft looking body but that didn't mean anything. Physical attraction is easy enough to surpress.

They glances at themself in the waters of the fountain. "Get a hold of yourself, Tanglelock. She's just some human" Even so, they couldn't deny the rising tempurature of their body nor the slight and sudden tightness of their pants. Tanglelock growls under their breath and heads into their house.

Redwood noticed the mayor glaring at him but he paid it no mind. The mayor was never fond of him. Although this glare seemed different. And not just because it was mostly aimed at Bug. He couldn't place it but he didn't care much to.

"Aye, Bug. You sees tha'? Why doncha go check on 'im?" He asks Bug, who also noticed the mayor's gazed and quick departure. Redwod idly picked at his trench coat as Bug's eyebrows furrowed.

"You think they're okay?"

"Prawhb'ly. Who knoes wha' sent 'em intah anuhthah epawhsode"

Bug rolled her eyes and pat one of his hands. She thanked him for his time before rushing off to Tanglelock's. It didn't take long, they live pretty close to town square. When she got to the door, she gently knovked and called their name. No response. Curious and worried she turned the knob and pushed the door open, entering and closing it behind herself. Their cloak was hung up so they were definitely home.

Then the scent of something sweet hit Bug's nose. It smelled naturally, probably some mystuc plant she hadn't yet encountered. Turning into the kitchen she saw them, cutting some fruit into moderately sized chuncks.

"Human. You're early," They pointed out calmly without turning their attention away from their task. She and Tanglelock by now had fallen into a routine, which included Bug coming back to theur house before moonrise. She lived under Tanglelock's roof from their own insistance. Any time she'd ask they'd always answer that they were responsible for her. "Did you finally come to your senses and realize how little good Redwood is?"

"That isn't what this is about-"

"No of course not. You're being nosy per usual."

"Are you okay?"

They had started chopping faster, their tail flicking and swaying behind them. Tanglelock stopped and turned around. Without warning they picked Bug up and carried her up into their bedroom.

"In truth, I've found myself confronted by curious emotions"

"S-such as?"

"Jealousy mostly"

"What could you possibly be jealous of?"

"Redwood and any other who thinks they can lay a claim on you.. ... As responsibility of course. Although I wouldn't mind getting a feel of you"

Bug blushed slightly as she processed their words on top of being craddled against their chest. Who would've thought Tanglelock would be one to catch hots for her?

"As a fling or something more meaningful?"

"Either or. Which would you prefer?"

"Meaningful but we can start at flings and see if it works for us"

They nodded and stepped closer, hovering their hands above her hips. She bit her lip and stepped closer in response. Tanglelock leaned down, opening their maw. They pulled her closer and sank their teeth into her, savoring the hitch of her breath.

They pulled back, drawing their tongue over the fresh mark. Their tail flicks but not in the usual irritated way.

"I've never done this. ... To be perfectly clear, I very specifically mean you. I've never done this with a human, or for bonding-esque purposes for that matter," They admitted softly. Tanglelock had their key-esque head rotated so they could better see Bug. Having in front of you being your periferal was a pain in the ass.

Bug nodded with a slightly sheepish smile. She then undid the buttons of her shirt and sat back on the foot his bed. Feeling his bed for the first time her eyes widen in surprise.

"Wow.. it's not soft at all, do you actually sleep on this rock?"

"I do indeed. Besides, it is hardly a rock, merely firm"

She rolled her eyes as she shimmied out of her pants, leaving herself just in her underwear.

"Curious. Why wear extra clothes? Seems like a hassle.."

".. Do you not wear anything under regular clothes?"

"Not unless there's reason to"

They shed their own pants, partly to move on from the brought up topic. It was hardly important. Not to mention it made situations like this less awkward, at least if you asked Tanglelock.

They guide Bug onto her back and settle over her. Their hands roam curiously over her body. Tanglelock felt an odd sense of wonder at her natural warmth and squishiness. They grip her hips and tug her closer, qatching her red cheeks redden further at the new contact.

"Am I going too fast for you?"

"No this is fine.. I dunno, I guess I didn't expect you to be so.. assertive and well in charge"

"Ha! Like I haven't kept you in place the whole time you've been here"

They tug her underwear off, tossing the fabric haphazardly behind themself. Tanglelock entered her with a low groan. They paused for a moment to let her adjust and to savor her slick warmth. Her hands had found a tight grip on their shoulders already. They chuckled to themself under their breath as they started rolling their hips. A slow pace to start but only to build momentum. Soft moans and panting soon filled the room.

Bug's eyes were screwed shut and Tanglelock had their head nestled in the nape of her neck. It felt oddly right. She hadn't expected how straightforward they were but then again she also never expected to even be here, under them on their bed. A needy whimper escaped her throat, making their pace studder for a moment. She moved her hands closer, pulling them closer to reassure them that she was fine.

♡ ♡ ♡

In the morning Bug found herself in Tanglelock's arms. She glanced down at herself and noticed several bruises and bite marks. She remembered each one and luckily most seemed like they'd be easy enough to hide. Not that she was ashamed of sleeping with the town's mayor but she wouldn't want attention called to it.

She smiled fondly and pecked what could only be assumed was their cheek and not their eyelid. Bug nuzzled closer. Tanglelock's body felt strange, like a mixture of metal and scales, not to mention his lower body tempurature. It wasn't entirely unpleasant though. She let herself drift back to sleep.

[moth-writing-pit]

"Dirty Mind"

Suggestive themes, fluffy moments. Oc x Canon, pre-established relationship

King Dice woke up in a bed that wasn't his own. He knew because it was softer than his bed, not to mention Vlads fuzzy red hands gently cradding his waist. His face flushed, he had confessed his burning and confusing feeling he held for Vlad to him. The fruit-bat must've accepted him and things took a turn. No, wait, he remembered now, his back pressed against the bed and his legs propped on Vlad's shoulders. Remembering that they actually banged did his burning cheeks no favors, Dice had to be redder than Vlad's fur at this point.

Speaking of, he stirred and offered Dice a sleepy smile. The kind look in those half-lidded blue eyes sent shivers down the die-headed man's spine.

"Mornin.. Did you sleep alright?"

"Ah.. yes.. I did, thank you"

"Good.. I just want to letcha know now, I think we can make this work, beyond purely physical activity I mean," He chuckled, his fangs slightly glinting in the dim light of dawn. Dice cuddled closer, burying his face in the bat's fur to hide his flushed cheeks.

He'd actually been on the bottom for once. Dice had given up control and enjoyed it. Whatever this feeling is, it's messing with his head. Badly. Who even was he, enjoying not being in charge?

"I wouldn't mind.. y-y'know getting emotional and uh stuff.." Dice mumbled into Vlad's neck.

He leaned back and tilted Dice's head up before leaning in and gently kissing him. An umfamilar warmth bloomed in the conman's chest at the gesture.

"Do you want help getting ready or if you plan on skipping work today, is there anything at all I can get you?"

"I would love to lay in bed with you all day sugar but I probably should go into work. The people would miss me, after all," He paused and hesitantly pressed a tender peck to the bat's lips before continuing. "To actually answer, no. You're so sweet but you should relax"

As he got dressed he couldn't resist sneaking a few nore kisses. They were soft, sweet and warm. Plus they felt real, they made these feeling and situation feel real. Real and right. It felt good and natural to wake in Vlad's arms and to exchange small and tender and loving kisses as they debated just staying in bed together.

♡ ◇ ♧ ♤ ♤ ♧ ◇ ♡

In the casino, Dice couldn't get his mind off of Vlad. His usual playful and meanings snogs with customers felt wrong. Like he was commiting some unforgivable sin. But the conman was surrounded by and encouraged sin in his job. He was the manager of The Devil's casino.

When he was alone in his office his mind decided it a good idea to replay the events of the night prior. The way he had arched into Vlad's touch, the needy whine and cracking in his voice, his willing surrender of control. And worst of all, how good it felt and how comfortable he felt with Vlad in spite of the steamy situation. Dice had not only genuinely felt good but he didn't see it as a meaningless hookup. It was not purely physical.

Dice found himself placing his hands over his belly, imagining they were Vlad's hands and that the bat was whispering sweet nothings to him or perhaps reassuring him the love was real. That's what it was, the strange burning feeling, it was love; Dice loved Vlad. Which scared him. Love was a dangerous thing, especially in a job like his where violence against one's self or whom they hold dear is common. Yes, Vlad was perfectly capable of handling himself but Dice still wanted to protect him.

He took a deep breath and slouched in his chair. He decided to distract himself with aimless wondering about how Vlad's fangs might feel sinking into him. Dice shuddered to himself as he thought about the intial sting a bite might bring. Thinking about the chilling warmth of his blood filling the fruit-bat's mouth, stray droplets racing down his pristine flesh. Thinking about the vivid puncture wounds the fangs would leave. Two little holes, marking Dice as Vlad's.

Dice was grateful for a sharp knocking pulling him out of his thoughts. He called for them to come in and it was none other than Wheezy. The cigar man leaned in the doorframe.

"Aye boss, we got a hot shot. Real cocky arse who- You feeling best, boss?" Wheezy cutting himself off to inquire about his well bieng caught him off guard. It was completely out of the blue. At least until Dice realized he had a hand planted on his neck.

"I'm fine. Bored really, dealling with this might an' mighty nobody outta do me some good," He responded curtly, trying to not think about Vlad.

Wheezy eyed him suspiously for a moment but nodded and started off. Dice adjusted his tie and went out into the casino himself. The loud sounds of idle chatter, rolling dice and a performance being played filled Dice's ears. These sounds were normal, welcome even.

The rowdy patron was a gargoyle and not a young one at that. Both horns were horribly chipped, their wings in no better condition and one could hardly tell they even had a tail. They were dressed in muddy, torn robes, suggesting they have little if anything to lose by gambling.

"Hello my granite friend," Dice drawled behind them, spooking them. He offered a falsely warm smile. "I hear you've been quite lucky"

"Tha's righ'! Could go awl nigh' Ah could, jus' migh' too. Ah bet Ah could win te casino i'self!"

"Is that right? Why don't I take you up on that offer? Next roll if you win, you get the casino. Lose? The big man in charge gets what he's owed."

Dice could see the possibly of danger fly clean past the gargoyle's head as their face lights up and they grab the dice. They eagerly shake the dice in their cupped hands and toss the little cubes. They don't even bother to look at the roll before throwing up their hands in celebration.

"What a shame.. Snake eyes, House wins," Dice said in a mockingly sympathetic tone. He firmly put his hand on their shoulder. "C'mon let's head to my office, we'll figure out the details"

♡ ◇ ♧ ♤ ♤ ♧ ◇ ♡

Dice couldn't be happier to leave work for once. He kept his earlier thoughts as at bay as he could. He felt filthy for thinking such thoughts.

When he got into Vlad's lighthouse, the air was filled with the scent of fresh baked pie. It smeeled savory. He went upstairs and wrapped his arms around the bat's belly.

"Something smells real good and it's not just you.." Dice happily nuzzled into his neck fluff and kissed his neck.

"Venison and Razzlebarry pie"

"Ooooh.. Sounds real good, sugar. Y'know I couldn't keep my mind of you.." He kissed his neck again, playful nipping him. Vlad tilted his head for him.

"Oho that right? Do I owe you a night of night tonight?"

"Yes please.. Maybe we can play with where you can put those fangs of yours..."

[moth-writing-pit]

"The Thorns of a Rose"

Gleamfolk City and Hemlock belong to @dictatortirah. Beelzebub and Oracles are of my doing. Oc x canon and a little bit of a longer fic. There is a timeskip and it does get slightly unhinged. Hemlock might be out of character but I did try.

Hemlock had heard a fair bit about Beelzebub from Nero. When he heard about the jerboa's door he had done some research. Beelzebub was an Oracle, a Maiden of the Moon. Hemlock knew of Oracles of course but this was his excuse to look into them. Oracles were basically a religous group who aim their worship in the direction of moon. Believers of reasonable redeemption according to his dusty old books.

He donned his coat and headed out. The bushy detective was going to learn some things first hand. First hand was the best way to learn most everything. At least if you asked Hemlock.

It took about an hour for him to make it to Beelzebub's Best. He was greeted by the warm scent of cooking food. He could identify imported seasonings. Seasonings imported from the desert some ways south. Which probably meant Beelzebub grew up in the desert before moving to the city.

Over the central counter Hemlock could see Beelzebub chopping an exotic fruit before giving her staff bits of it and telling them what to do with it. Hemlock studied her from the resturants main doorframe.

Peaking out from under her poncho-esque garb was what seemed to be freshly applied bandage wrap. A torso injury that reopened, likely. She had a faded mark over one of her eyes, as if there was an accident or someone had tried to take her eye and failed. Her torn ear, on the other hand was most certainly of foul play.

Her eyes caught him studying her and she stepped out of the kitchen. Her tall frame made her proud stride imposing.

"Hello there leafy one, welcome to Beelzebub's best!" Her lip curled up in a semblance of a friendly smile. Her unmatching blue eyes held a knowing glint.

Hemlock grinned and held out his hand. She firmly shook it.

"Hemlock. Pleasure lil' missy," His grin widened. Beelzebub was actually roughly equal height to him but it was a habit. "I'd like to ask you some mayhaps personal questions, if I may?"

She looked him up and down before giving him a slight nod. The jerboa walked toward an intricately carved door. He paused, studying the door.

"Traditional, innit?"

"You've done your homework. I wasn't expecting to bump into anybody who knew about us Maidens of the Moon.. refreshing"

The pair decended the stair and talked for a while before Beelzebub stood to returm to her kitchen. Her tail twitched, thumping against the sand laid on the floors of her personal quarters. The jerboa let out a yelp as a stray rock lodged itself under the bandage on her tail.

"Allow me, gerlie," Hemlock's tone invited no arguement. He stood and pushed her down gently by her shoulders into a seated position. He rumaged her cabinets until he found bandage wrap. Hemlock gently unwound the now bloodied wrapping, sucking in a breath as he saw the bite mark ruining the otherwise perfect length of her tail. An old wound but a wound that never properly healed.

"Yowch gerlie.. How'd this 'appen?" His eyes were fill with stern concern.

"From somebody I once considered a friend.. Nothing important"

♡ ♡ ♡

Hemlock and Nero were chatting over the kitchen counter. The pair paused as they heard the front door creaked open. Nero glared at his leafy roommate with his one eye.

"What the hell did we discuss about guests?"

"Hush you ju'gmental ram, i's probably jus' Polly lookin' fer a new story"

The newcomer steps into view and to the surprise of both it was Beelzebub. She looked between Nero and Hemlock, her ear flattening back.

"Oh dear.. Is Beelzebub interrupting? I will return at a later time-"

Hemlock's face lit up and he clasped his hands around hers. His bushy tail swaying without his realizing. Beelzebub's eyes widen at his warm greeting, a small smile breaking her nerves.

"It is nice to be welcomed like this. So nice to see you Hemlock"

"What'd you drop by fer m' sweet lemon?"

Nero gave a dramatic and loud gag, earning a chuckle from the tall pair. He slunk off, muttering under his breath.

"I brought you a gift. A err.. courting gift, to make this affair offical, if you would like.." She trailed off, her cheeks growing redder than her tail and inner ears.

Hemlock's raised his eyebrows and smiled reassuringly, making a 'go on' gesture. Beelzebub unfurled her tail and took a necklace from the tuft at the tip of her tail. The jerboa opened her palm to show a hand woven necklace with polished teeth for charms. All canines but sanded to soften the tips.

"It's a symbol of loyalty and faith. A traditional Oracle practice, doesn't have to be teeth, just bone"

He gave a soft smile and ducked his head. She tied the necklace loosely around his neck. Her eyes lingered on how his thorns suspended the necklace.

"I's very purdy, m' sweet lemon. Not nearly as purdy as you but close. I outta return the favor sometime"

"You would?"

"Absolutely! I'd even tear some suckahs teeth out to match" His own teeth glinted in the light as he guffawed lightly. Beelzebub's whiskers wriggled as she chuckled with him. She pressed the side of her snout to his.

[moth-writing-pit]

I am so happy to find this, before I start making requests what are your rules?

Like what you'll write and won't write!

Thanks again for that infection au one. You wrote Don perfectly!!!

Complementary silly don picture

Its less set in stone rules and more a list of personal questions

Like Am I comfortable writing this? If there are fandom specific characters, am I familar with the source material and am I comfortable to write for said source material?

And theres also wether or not its reasonable, ie not being straight up smut or problematic

[moth-writing-pit]

"Shelter"

Cuphead one shot set in @maxtheweirdo1812's Infection au. Don also belongs to @maxtheweirdo1812. Peter belongs to @phoneheadedemployee

Peter was only travelling with Don because there was power in numbers. The horned cup was annoying at best and unbearably positive at worst. The unlikely pair had been travelling for a few weeks now.

Don spotted dark clouds blanketing the sky. "We should take cover.. the forest won't be safe in the storm," he noted aloud.

Peter nodded slowly, examining his surroundings. The phone headed man saw the lighthouse not too far from them. The old building looked surprising good considering the state of the world.

"The lighthouse. It should do for the night"

Don grinned and Peter led him to the dock beside Elder Kettle's old cabin. The cabin had long collapsed since the infection spread. The dock also wasn't in the best condition. The wood closest to the sea was moldly and falling apart. Curiously the dingy tied to a dock post was destoryed. Although the damage didn't look weather inflicted.

"Looks like we have to swim.. C'mon sunshine n rainbows"

The phone headed man shed his jacket and dipped into the sea water. It was incredibly cold but he figured he and Don could warm up once inside. Don hesitated but followed after Peter. He shivered as he swam but Peter paid Don no mind.

The pair soon made it to the shore where the lighthouse stood. Don lifted his hand to knock but Peter stepped ahead of him and tried to open the door. Locked.

"Peter! You should be glad it's locked! That's so rude! I can't believe you"

"Can't you? I didn't assume anybody lived in there"

He paused for a moment in thought before back up to the water's edge and rushed at the door, slamming his weight into it. The phone headed man fell with the door, stirring a puff of dust. He heard Don's disapproving sigh. The pair was distracted by the sound of footsteps.

A tall figure stood in the doorway of the stairwell. The figure stepped closer. Once soft, vibrant, red and amber fur was dusty, matted and wirey. Even a glimpse of cobwebs tangled in the fur. They could even see their ribs. The figure's eyes were blue. At first it was hard to tell, as their eyes were glossed over with paranoia.

The pair were so focused on the figure poor condition that they didn't see the growing hostility. Lips curled back in an animalistic snarl, pupils narrowed into dangerous slits, hackles raised. Don stepped back, his unmatching eyes wide in fear and caution.

"OUT FLITHY PLAGUE RIDDEN MORSELS! OUT OUT OUT!" The figure's voice has raspy and broken as if it hadn't been used in quite some time. It had a strong quality to it that may have once been charming.

"Hold on, we just came to spend the night. We'll be gone as soon as the storm passes," Peter softly said, keeping his gaze locked with the figure's. One hand slowly inched toward his dripping belt, for his knife, just in case.

"I don't care why you come. GET OUT! You've already brought the flith inside. No more damage must be done"

One more step and the pair could see that the figure was a bat. A bat who seemed to be made of fruit, apple and lemon specifically. No wonder he seemed so hostile.

"Out. Now. Before I slit your throats and leave you to the fish"

Peter grabbed Don's wrist and dragged him back to the sand outside. They would have to shelter somewhere else. Soon, too. Those storm clouds were moving quickly now.

[moth-writing-pit]

"Warmed Undead"

oc x canon. Short-ish drabble.

Emerald was sitting by the shoreline brushing against the camp, his tail flicking as he sharpened his knife. Usually the scaly goody-two-shoes was quite eager to talk. An unfamiliar pang of concern passed over Astarion. Of course he cared, this dragonborne was his key to getting the parasite out of himself and possibly killing Cazador.

It wasn't until the vampure spawn stepped closer that he realized Emerald's green, scaly lips were curled up in a smile. His startling blue eyes crinkled in what seemed to be possession, the pupils narrowed to dangerous slits. Astarion put a hand on his shoulder, making the dragonborne look up at him. His pupils dilated and the smile became less psychotic.

"Yes? Is something wrong Astarion?" His voice was so kind. And luring, it was quite a pleasant voice. The vampire spawn enjoyed how his name sounded in Emerald's voice.

"You were smiling like a maniac darling. Scent goblin blood or something?" He grinned charmingly, met with a sheepish grin from his green companion. For a dragon he was quite cute when he was being shy. Still merely a tool though.

"Was I? Oops.. I suppose the thrill of killing that hunter is still flowing strong," His grin took on an air of pride.

"Is that right? I didn't take you for the type to enjoy a cold-blooded murder so much," A teasing remark but a remark to hide the affection trying to creep into his tone. An absurd and unwelcome emotion. He was thankful of course but this fondness rising in him like bile was proving annoying fast.

"It's not the umprompted murder I enjoy. It's a sense of pride that I was able to protect you"

Crimson painted Astarion's cheeks. He had to look away to hide it. Emerald sounded so cheerful about the statement he said like it was nothing. He sounded so proud of himself. The poison of fondness grew in his heart. Astarion would rather have bile rising in his throat. At least bile could be gotten rid of.

"It was a minor problem you took care of. No need to get sappy"

"Yeah, well sappy doesnt sound so bad to me"

He swiftly made his way back to his tent. He was redder than Karlach. Over what? A naïve dragonborne who thinks himself Astarion's friend? Ridiculous.

As dusk fell on the group Emerald made his way back to the center of camp. He was talking to Wyll as he picked out the food that would fire-cooked tonight. Astarion was amazed by how happy-go-lucky the dragonborne was.

He sighed and pulled Emerald aside. It took everything in the vampire spawn to not get lost in those gorgeous blue eyes.

"Darling. I had something I wanted to say," He starts slowly.

"That I'm handsome and you apprieciate me?"

"W-well yes but that's not the point. I uh.. I don't mind you wanting to protect me and I.." He trails off, his cheeks flushing as he loses his train of thought. His cheeks burn hotter as Emerald took his cold hands in his own scaly ones.

"Then I'll continue to protect you"

[moth-writing-pit]

"Dinner Date"

Self indulgent oc x canon piece. Long-ish drabble

Simon rolled over in bed, groaning to himself. His mind was filled with Ice King memories agian. Tonight he was preparing a spell. A spell he didn't have the matierals for. He went out into the forest until he found what he was looking for, the bramble patch. He had shouted something but he didnt remember what it was. Simon remember he had tried pushing his way into the bramble, hearing hoofsteps before he lifted out of the thorned tangle of vines. It was his first meeting with the Enchantress and he made a fool of himself.

His mind then replayed when he used the spell to talk to Becky in the past and ended up bringing her into the present. When Becky, Finn and Jake were gone he was paid a visit by the Enchantress. Of course he had used unregistered and unstable magic and once again made a fool of himself.

Had there been any time he'd met the Enchantress without making a fool of himself? Simon wasn't sure. He sat up with another groan, blinking his eyes open. Maybe he should apologize for.. well everything she had wittnessed from the Ice King. Including the time he'd kidnapped her thinking she was a princess. He frowned as he thought about it. No, especially for that.

Simon got himself decently presentable and scrounged his drawers for the pendant she gave him. He didn't remember exactly what it did but he refused to lose a gift from someone he considered himself to be so close to.

"There you are," He muttered to himself once he found it, pulling it up to his face. It was a small horse shoe with a pearl painted to look like an eye of a tiger. Simon slipped it over his head and let it hang from his neck. The pendant was cold even with his shirt as a barrier.

He stopped by a local meat shop on his way to the Enchantress'. Simon knew he might get choked up with words so bringing food might prove a welcome distraction. Or perhaps a salvation. Either way, he wasn't not bringing the meat.

"If it ain't Mister Petrikov!" The butcher was a moose-headed scorpion. Not the strangest creature he'd ever seen but up there.

"Simply Simon will do, thank you. I'm looking for a good cut of manticore, please," He said calmly, trying to keep worry out of his voice.

"Manticore, aye? What's got you looking for such fancy meat?"

"I have my reasons.. it's the favorite of a friend, if you must know"

The butcher nodded and went to the back to fetch the cut of meat. Simon caught himself wondering if the fur under the butcher's carcapace was ever uncomfortable. Surely it was but he wouldn't know nor did he plan on asking.

He paid for the meat and politely thanked the butcher. As he walked his free hand idly held the pendant. His thumb repeatedly brushed over the painted pearl. It was soothing. Anchoring even.

The walk took a little longer than usual, probably on account of his detour. He took a deep breath and tapped a stone just barely outside of the bramble patch with his foot. He willed himself to take another deep breath as the vines untangle, revealing a path.

Simon padded down the path and was soon welcomed by the scent of burning Razzle-Root. A calming, sweet scent.

"Out! I've already told you that I do no- ah, Petrikov, I wasn't expecting you. Pleasant surprise," a soft smile graced her muzzle. There was a cauldren bubbling on the fire, full of whole Razzle-Roots. She was probably making some kind of potion. Or maybe she was cooking, it was hard to tell.

"Yes, well a heads up would have probably been helpful, for you," His cheeks flush and his eyes droop to the stone laid floor.

"We've discussed this Petrikov, you're welcome in my den"

"I know, I know but still"

Here he was, trying to apologize for making a fool of himself as the Ice King and making a fool of himself as well himself. How embarassing.

"I uh.. I came to apologize, Enchantress, to you"

"Apologize? For what, I must ask?"

"Every time we were together while I was the Ice King! I did nothing but make a fool of myself!"

She gave a low trill that he took a moment to register as amused. She stepped closer and pulled him into a hug. His cheeks darken in color as he finds his face surrounded in fur. The Enchantress' embrace was comforting, her warmth quite welcome.

"Enchantress.. Really, I am sorry.. especially for the stupid kidnapping," Simon mumbled into her neck fluff.

"I found it amusing. Also you weren't the worst host as Ice King. Surprisingly pleasant. I appreciate it though"

"I'm glad. I'm so glad.. O-oh yeah I uh I brought manticore meat, j-just for you. While uh more or less as a precautionary measure, knowing myself.."

"Oh Simon, you're so sweet"

She pulled away and took the bag from him. She inspected the meat and nodded to herself. The Enchantress pressed a kiss to his temple.

"Let's get cooking, yeah?" She grinned as his cheeks darken to a deep crimson. She tugged him closer as she readied herself for cooking.

Simon and the Enchantress spent a few hours cooking and Simon had forgotten all about his guilt. He felt surpringly at home cooking with her. She'd stolen plenty of kisses. He'd only sneezed twice from her whiskers brushing against him.

It smelled good and cozy. Simon sat on the couch as she started plating. It didn't take long for her to join him, handing him a full plate and keeping one for herself. On a whim he pecked her cheek before eating with her.

[moth-writing-pit]

"At First Blood"

Possible and probably likely out of character. It is oc x canon but sort of a set up for a follow up. Long-ish drabble. This is a Monkey Wrench writing, Monkey Wrench is not my story, characters from it do not belong to me. The oc belongs to me and thats it.

Beebs found himself staring at the ceiling. He passed by someone who caight his eye a few times at the casino. Teal and amber fur and eyes as red as blood. Twin tails and a slender feline frame. Who was she? What was she? At least he assumed the figure burned into his memory was female. He didn't know her race or her at all.

Beebs wanted to properly meet her, to learn about and from her. He remember the gas mask she wore that hid her muzzle, the tusks peeking out from behind the mask, the fingerless gloves around her paw-like hands, the hand-sewn sybmol of a cracked skull surrounded by gas. Actually, he'd seen that symbol before, hasn't he? The Walurian dug through mercenary ranks amd wanted posters until he found it.

The feline figure with blood-red wearing a gas mask. A freelancer who often took assassination jobs. "Bloody Echo" was the name on the wanted posters, a psuedonym if ever Beebs saw one. As he read he discovered a few things, first that this Bloody Echo was a Jungle Viper, second that she rarely says a thing to employers. Jungle Vipers, Beebs had heard a few things about them. A feline race that was commonly very colorful and peaceful. A peaceful race but still one you wouldn't want to cross, as Jungle Vipers were said to have venomous claws. What the venom did exactly was unclear.

"BEEEEEEEBS.? I found something," Shrike's voice called out in a tone that did not suggest anything good. He sighed and put his research aside.

"What'd you find?" Beebs calmly crossed his arms.

"There's a signal. A trap no doubt.."

Beebs uncrossed his arms and stepped closer to look at the signal. The cordinates were of an out of the way planet. The Bucket had found the presence of another ship, no distress thankfully.

"We should check it out. What if somebody is stranded?"

"Bah! Not our problem!"

"Shrike."

"Fine but I will not hesitate to shoot if it's a trap!"

The trip was shorter than Beebs expected. The planet was lush, full of dull colored flora and dark but fast flowing water. Sure enough another ship was nestled on the beach nearby. It looked to be in rough shape, not unusable but definitely not in its best days.

As the pair investigated the other ship a few things became clear. First, this ship held the symbol of the Bloody Echo, marking it her property. Second, the owner of the ship was in no better shape than the ship, as the trail of pawprints in the sand was dotted with charcoal grey droplets. Assumingly blood.

Beebs sucked in a sharp breath and followed the trail. Soon he heard indistant muttering. The sound of someone talking to themself under their breath. Ducking under the brush, he saw her, the Bloody Echo. She was doubled over, a puddle of blood below her. She seemed to be tending to her own wound.

"Hello? Are um are you miss Bloody Echo?" He gulped, tension rising under his skin. She may be injured but she was still dangerous.

"Whose askin'? If yer a 'unter I ain't giving you an easy boun'y," Her voice was sharp despite the underlying pain. Her gas mask was haphazardly tossed beside her, giving Beebs a full view of her face, namely her curled back lips.

"No, no I'm not here for your bounty. You're bleeding pretty heavily, do you need help?"

She hesitated. Her chest was heaving with her heavy panting. She glanced between him and her blood soaked paws. A low growl sounded in her throat. Beebs stepped back, unable to tell if the growl signaled hostility or not.

Her tails flicked weakly behind her. She seemed a little light-headed. Was she scared of looking weak, is that was she was forcing herself to stay on her feet?

"Let me help you, miss Bloody Echo," He forced sterness into his voice, stepping closer to her despite the bile rising in his throat. Her claws unsheathed and she hisses brashly at him. She steps closer and starts lifting her arms to prepare to strike and collaspes onto the sand.

Beebs gasped and moved to catch her. He looked around and hastily made bandages from the flora around him. He left a pile of blood soaked moss behind him as he rushed her into the bucket. Beebs was no doctor but he had some medical knowledge. Enough to at least help clean and bandage her wound.

Shrike seemed startled when he saw the Walurian carrying an unconcious Jungle Viper. He followed him into the bucket.

"Who's she?"

"Someone who needs our help"

"So you're playing doctor to a complete stranger?"

"I- yes, I would feel awful of she died and I know I could have done something, anything"

☆ ☆ ☆

When Crimson woke up, she was in a bed. An unfamilar bed. Right, the Walurian. She sat up, groaning at the sting the motion brought to the slash across her belly. She was lucky to be alive. Crimson didn't enjoy owing anybody a favor but she'd tolerate it this time since she might've died if not for the Walurian.

She stared at the bandages around her belly for a moment. Why had he bothered at all? Why go through all the work to save her? He had said her pseudonym aloud, so surely he at least knew of her. Would it not have been easier to let her die and collect the bounty?

Crimson's twin tails flicked as she sat, lost in thought. She was so lost in thought that she hadn't noticed the approaching sound of footsteps. Her hackles raise as the Walurian stranger sat beside her on the bed.

"Are you alright, miss Bloody Echo? I did the best I could but I think you might need an actual doctor," His voice was pleasant. Calm and soothing.

"I'm fine. Will be in any case. .. Crims'n. You.. you can call me Crims'n," She responded quietly, not meeting his eyes. She had no reason to. Sure, he saved her but she doesn't owe him manners.

"Then you may call me Beebs, my friends all do. Why Crimson, if I may ask?"

"Tha's m' name. Beebs, huh? .. Ah, wait, yer one o' them Monkey Wrench mercs, ain't ya?"

"That's right, I am part of the Monkey Wrench company," He offered her a warm grin. Crimson gave a slight growl to bury the purr that nearly escaped at seeing his grin. She took a moment to study his face. His beard was well taken care of, his eyes held a faint glaze of wariness and he was notably missing his tusks.

Jungle Vipers and Walurians both hold great pride over their tusks. Crimson couldnt think of why he would possibly want to be rid of his. She bit back her curiosity, it wasn't her business.

"I need ta ask ya somethin', Beebs"

"Anything"

"Why save me? Why bother?

"We got a signal from your ship and decided to investigate. I was worried the worst had happened to some poor soul.. Besides, I'd feel just horrible if I knew someone died and I could have done something for them, anything at all"

"Yer diff'rent from others of yer kind tha' I've met. Soft'r. Warm. It's almos' sweet in a pathetic way"

Beebs gave a slight chuckle, a sound more from awkwardness than anything else. She was so blunt and her accemt certainly made her interesting to talk to.

"Uh thank you, I um I suppose"

"No probl'm. Now if you'll e'cuse me, I outta be headed," She grunted as she shifted and placed her hind paws on the floor of the Bucket.

"Wait, let me escort you to your ship"

"You really are a softie"

He laughed at her remark and offered his arm to support her. She hesitated before leaning against him, letting her weight sink against him. Her tails swayed low behind her as they walked. Crimson felt surprising calm with Beebs.

When they made it to her ship, his hand brushed against hers. The feeling sent a shiver up her spine.

"Stay safe, please?"

"I make no promis' big guy"

She flashed him a playful grin full of teeth and gums before clambering into her ship. She didn't hesitate to start it. It didn't take long for her to be off on her way.

Beebs sighed and walked back to the Bucket. His mind was racing. His metalic hand craddled his one fleshy hand. Crimson's paw felt so soft against his hand. She trusted him with her name. He hoped to see her again. Next time in better shape.

[moth-writing-pit]

Some of worldbuilding stuff I am not good at telling stories and properly explaining my lore so I'm just doing random things with text slapped on top of them so I won't forget my stuff

[moth-writing-pit]

sometimes you need dialogue tags and don't want to use the same four

[moth-writing-pit]

[moth-writing-pit]

"Siren Smile"

Oc x canon oneshot. Love at first sight equse trope, a bit simple

Henchman was with King Dice today, both investigating a new cafe on the Devil's behalf. Matchstick Meals was the name. Fitting, seeing as it was owned by Grim Matchstick herself.

When they entered, they were greeted by a pleasant warmth and the comforting smells of brewing tea and cooking food. A tall bat came thier way, he seemed to be made up of fruit. A smile as pleasant and warm as the cafe was on his face. Hemchman alreadly liked that smile.

"How may I help you two today? A table to start perhaps?" The fruitbat's voice was as lovely as his smile, strong but not piercing. King Dice seemed suspious of the fruitbat's friemdly demeanor.

"A table would do nicely, thank you," Dice kept any emotion out of his voice. Feigning an air of fatigue if anything.

He nodded and lead the pair to an empty table by a window. He then walked off, assumingly to gather a menu of what the Cafe had to offer.

"You're being quiet. You usually have something to say. Is something wrong? That smilely guy?"

"What? No, the nice bat is not the problem. I guess I'm just surprised by how nice it is," The little demon admitted softly. Dice was right, he was being more quiet than usual. Especially since seeing that fruitbat. Henchmam didn't want Dice to now that he was already fond of the fruitbat, adoring the way his leafy tail swayed behind him as he walks, how at ease that sweet smile made him feel.

Henchman just figured it was his demonly mind finding comfort in the calmness fiund up here on the surface. Surely the slightly wagging of his tail wasn't solely because of the fruitbat. That would be silly, He and the fruitbat were strangers after all.

Speaking of, here he was again. He handed both of them a laminated menu and placed a small bell on the table.

"Ring this when you're ready and I or another waiter will come, take your order and get what you what right to you when it's ready," He calmly told them, that lovely smile never dropping.

"We've never been here, is there anything you can reccomend?" Henchman could feel his heart pick up pace, his face felt hot. How odd.

"Well, personally, if you're a tea person then the Smoked Steep is quite the experience. Offered both hot and cold. Puzzleberry lemonade is also a good choice, I'll warn you though, its got a kick. I'd give a dish to try but I have a hard time picking just one. I like em all," A half chirp titter escaped his throat.

"That sound interesting.. I've never had Puzzleberry before. I think I'd like to try the Puzzleberry lemonade, please," Henchman met the fruitbat's eyes and the heat under his cheeks worsened. The fruitbat nodded politely.

"I'll try the Smoked Steep. It'll be interesting at worst," Dice said calmly, eyeing the fruitbat warily. "The Roasted Lemon and Lime Waffles too, please"

Henchman watched the fruitbat write their order down and walk off toward the kitchen. He admired how friendly he was. If the cafe wasn't welcoming, the fruitbat sure made it welcoming.

About fifteen minutes pass amd the fruitbat comes back, a tray with their drinks and Dice's waffles balancing on it on one hand. He placed the contents of the order. "Enjoy"

"Wait! Um.. What was your name? I uh I didn't catch it," He felt the heat under his cheeks again.

"I didn't throw it," Henchman gave a startled laugh at the playful response. "Vlad. Vlad McShrubberry, you my little purple fellow?"

"Henchman. M-my name is Henchman," He felt like he was making a fool of himself. He just felt so nervous around him.

"I hope to see you around then. Also that you enjoy your lemonade. Puzzleberry isn't for everyone, whicheaves more for us who like it," Henchman shyly smiled at the sight of Vlad's toothy grin. He noticed Vlad's fangs, feeling no fear looking at the long puncturing teeth. All of his teeth looked sharp but Henchman figured Vlad didn't often use them to hurt others. He didn't seem like the type.

The little demon took a sip of the lemonade and his eyes lit up. It was tangy with an aftertaste of bitterness. The colorful liquid was delightful!

"Glad to see you like it Henchman. Taste after my own heart," He smiled that warm smile again. Vlad walked off, his leafy tail brushed against Henchman, drawing a sharp intake of breath. His tail was so soft!

King Dice gave him an amused look as he took a bite of the citrusy waffle. Henchman felt the heat under his cheeks intensify. He dropped his gaze into the lemonade in front of him.

"Looks like someone has the hots for the waiter," A smug grin crossed the die-headed man's lips.

"N-no! I don't have hots for anyone!"

"You're blushing Henchman"

[moth-writing-pit]

-:"Baby, I'm yours," Romantic prompts for your otp:-

(y'all...tag me if you write these<333)

By @me-writes-prompts

Waking up early to surprise them with breakfast in bed only to relze their partner has beat them to it.

Bringing them flowers/chocolates to work just because.

Random gift giving even if it's not a special occasion

"I love you please don't ever leave me." "Babe, I just went to the bathroom."

"You'll always do this for me, right?" "Do what?" "Laugh at my jokes that are not always that funny?" "Are you kidding me? You're a comedian." "This is why I fell in love with you." hahahaha

Just looking at them with adoration in their eyes as the other one rants about interests.

Celebrating every little one of their accomplishments

^^"Love...we really don't need to celebrate the fact that I've finally learned to property hold chopsticks." "I just thought it'd be funny to see your reaction."

Doing their morning routine together. <3

Hiding behind a wall/door and trying to 'boo' them, but getting 'booed' instead.

^^"I really thought I had you this time!" "Me-12, you-0! Hah!"

They both just love cuddling in, and watching horror movies to see who gets scared first.

[moth-writing-pit]

“Path laid in Ichor”

Personal character work, technical death implication

Moribundo was following a scent trail, the oily and metallic scent of ichor to be more specific. The equivalent of blood for Divine like himself. If he had to guess it was either a fight or someone has just gone Dormant.

He turned a corner to find Lady Luck and Nyx standing over a freshly Dormant Hallucination. The Reaper sucked in a breath as Nyx's eerie eyes fell upon him. Her numerous sharp eyes narrowed.

“A curious Reaper. What are you doing here little one?”

“I was following the scent of ichor and it lead me here,” He politely responded, his gaze locked onto Lady Luck, who still hadn't turned to acknowledge his presence. The Hallucination’s beating heart was in her hand, pumping ichor steadily. The lighter fur of her hand was drenched, undoubtedly stained with the less than pleasant smell of ichor. He shuddered. Ichor was not nice to clean out of fur.

“Impressive. Since you're here it can't hurt to tell you why we're doing this. You see this one was getting too curious.. too nosy. There's obviously nothing wrong with traversing to the corridor Xyrrymyxx is held but there was something in their gaze. Along with the higher exposure to Mortals Hallucinations have compared to Charms and Keepers, we couldn't take a chance,” Nyx calmly told him.

Moribundo simply nodded. He thought it was a little harsh to force a Spirit Dormant for that but who was he to argue with Great Ones?

Lady Luck snorted at Nyx's explanation. Her ears tilted back and her third eye opened but she said nothing. Nyx's head stayed angled toward him but her eyes glanced at her fellow Great One. “It's true and you know it. Besides, I'm not you, I've no obligation to be cryptic or rude to innocent Spirits”

“It is no obligation! I am showing discipline! You are the rude and cryptic one”

“That's still your honor, Luck”

Lady Luck hissed, her grip on the Hallucination's heart tightening and sending even more ichor splattering to the ground. Nyx bared sharp teeth in a way that could be interpreted as amused.

Moribundo shifted on his weight. Awkwardness prickled his fur, a little fear even. He knew Lady Luck could be intense but seeing it first hand was something else.

“You're dismissed little Reaper. Unless you'd like to help us dispose of this poor sap?”

“What can I do to help, Nyx?”

“Lady Luck is probably going to render this one eternally Dormant so.. why don't you take the body to the entrance of the Faceless Corridor, might as well make am example of this one”

Moribundo nodded and moved between the two Great Ones. He lifted the Hallucination and slid it over his shoulder. He traveled further down the corridor and propped the Dormant Hallucination outside the door.

He stepped away from the limp Spirit and headed back the way he came. A wave of amber rippled through the cloudy ground beneath him. He watched as the orange-ish yellow ate the prior blue-ish white. Moribundo enjoyed the phases of color exhibited by the ever shifting landscape of Limbo. He was even more amused every time a Mortal Soul freaks out at sight and feel of the land. Every new Soul waiting in Limbo reacted the same and at least to Moribundo it never got old.

Speaking of Mortal Souls, an hourglass appeared in his dark robe. He broke it open like one would crack an egg. The sand fell past his fur, enveloping him in the aura of the Mortal, showing him exactly where the Soul is. Moribundo lifted his hood and fell back, then fell up and landed on the Mortal Plane. He started whistling a tune to himself, wandering the cold city streets in search of the Soul. Time had once again come.