#but the minute they clear it up Will realizes that Nico is a *very* different person than he initially realized

[aroaceleovaldez]

I really like the idea that for the first few months of them hanging out post-HoO, Will had no idea Nico had stayed at CHB before. He was under the impression that Nico was more or less new to camp, since he had been a rogue demigod, and that he had just been an ally of CHB up until that point who had been to the camp but had never been a camper. The entire time Will just assumed he was the senior camper between the two of them, not knowing Nico had actually joined camp almost a whole two years prior to him and was instead returning.

Nico eventually realizes Will’s misconception and tries to explain it, but Will thinks Nico is messing with him until Nico explains the crack in the dining pavilion (which no one at camp besides Percy knows the origins of, save for maybe Annabeth, Grover, and Chiron) was from him the night he ran away (and maybe also shows Will his camp beads to further prove he’s not making it up, depending on if you believe he has one from BoTL or not). Will then gets to have the fun little journey of recontextualizing everything he knows about Nico.

[child-of-eris]

Jason Grace x Child of Eris!Reader Headcanons

Pairing: Jason Grace x Child of Eris!Reader

Warnings: Probably OC Jason, Piper and Jason were never dating, LIGHT violence, idk

This is after The Blood of Olympus and before The Trails of Apollo. I have also taken some... creative liberties. It’s way too detailed and I may as well have just written a fic but too late. Lemme know if you guys wanna see a fic or anything else, really. 

How you meet:

You meet at Camp Half-Blood a few days after the war with Gaia

Jason is heading to the infirmary to visit Nico (and maybe tease him about a certain son of Apollo a bit, but hey, who can blame him?)

You’re sitting on the front steps of the Big House, a bandage on your left cheek and clothes still bloody. 

He doesn’t realize he’s staring until you clear your throat and look at him

“You gonna say something or just stare at me?”

He goes bright red, apologizes flying out of his mouth

“I’m so sorry, it’s just, well, why are you still so...”

“Bloody?” you ask, a grin starting to form. It’s a little scary, if he’s honest. 

You explain you haven’t been back to cabin 42 yet, as it got damaged in the battle, so you’ve been helping around camp instead and sleeping in tents with your siblings

“Besides, the chaos helps me stay focused.”

It takes Jason a few minutes to remember what demigods cabin 42 is home to until...

“You’re a child of Eris?”

He couldn’t really believe that YOU were a child of Eris. Sure, your smile was startling, but he had a feeling that was on purpose. 

Besides that, you seemed... well, like a normal, admittedly attractive demigod

“Is that a problem?” 

Stuttering out a panicked “of course not!” and more apologies, he stops short when you begin to laugh

You say you were just teasing him, and with a genuine smile (which was really nice, actually) you excuse yourself and walk away towards the mess hall. 

He watches you leave, face still red, and can’t help but want to talk with you again

Becoming friends:

He’s sees you again standing outside your cabin, talking to a younger girl who is bouncing in place and a older boy beside you who is dressed in all black. 

He goes to talk to you, but before he can, you wave at them and vanish into the shadows.

He feels his breath catch in his lungs. 

You can shadow travel???

She’s a granddaughter of Nyx, idiot, of course she can.

He walks back to his cabin in a daze, wondering why he wanted to see you again so bad. 

The next day he manages to catch up to you as you walk to the mess hall for lunch

He jogs to catch up and awkwardly says he never caught your name

When you introduce yourself, he tells you his name as well

“I know who you are, Grace.”

With an embarrassed laugh (he really needed to get it together), he asks if you wanted to spar sometime

“Like for fun? Sure.”

And that’s where it all started

Fluffy times:

You’re always there for each other

People get confused, because you 2 seem so different

That doesn’t stop you from beating the hell out of each other in the arena one moment and laughing together the next

He gets permission to sit at your table sometimes

All your siblings love him, but also tease you relentlessly

“Here comes your boyfriend-” “Shut up you are the worst oh my gods-”

You definitely don’t like him

Definitely 

He loosens up more around you more than most people, laughing and stealing fries from your plate

He goes to you when his doubts take over and he’s left wondering if he’s good enough

“I messed up the one chance I had with my father. Who says I won’t mess up again?”

You kinda hate Zeus/Jupiter for that, but you’ll never say anything

You’d rather not be struck down, thank you

The day he decides to actually acknowledge his growing crush on you is about 4 months later

He busts into cabin 9 in search of Leo, and very uncharacteristically freaks out

Leo laughs at him for a solid 5 minutes before he finally stops and takes the situation seriously

“Tell them.”

“But-”

“Tell them.”

So he would… when the time was right

The right time:

Turns out “the right time” tends to never come

He tried to say something several times

But for the first time in a long, long time, he can’t seem to find the courage

Part of him relishes in feeling like a normal guy with a crush

The rest of him wants to bang his head against a wall

So he definitely did not plan to tell you how he felt on a cold December afternoon

Everything was normal, you were both walking to the climbing wall for some fun, when you heard yelling from Half-Blood Hill

You 2 go racing to the top of the hill, only to find a terrified satyr attempting to protect 3 young kids, likely demigods

Jason is in the air before you can blink, flying towards the hellhound that threatens them

Despite having only a dagger, you rush forward as well, unwilling to let Jason fight alone

You two fight well together after months of training, enough so to distract the truck-sized hellhound and allow the kids and satyr to make it past the border

A dagger isn’t the best weapon against a giant canine, however, so you’re forced to be constantly moving to avoid claws and teeth

When you misstep roll your ankle, you yelp as your leg gives out under you, loud enough to distract Jason, who is immediately slapped by a large paw and thrown against Thalia’s tree

The hellhound advances towards him, but before it can get too far, you roll under it and directly into it’s shadow on the ground and out beside Jason

Grabbing onto him, you pull him into the only safe place you can think of

The Zeus cabin

After nights sneaking in and watching movies (and technically breaking the rules but hey, what Chiron doesn’t know won’t hurt him), it feels safer than anywhere else

Or to be more precise, Jason feels safe and the Zeus cabin is Jason’s home

Popping out from Zeus’ statue’s shadow, you quickly sit up and lean over him, desperate to see if he’s okay

And that’s when he kisses you

It doesn’t last long, but when you part, you can only stare at him

“You’re not concussed, right?”

He laughs and shakes his head (and you’ll later find out he was, but he insists he would have kissed you regardless)

“No, no, I’ve wanted to do that for... awhile.”

So you kiss him again, and then panic when he groans in pain after trying to sit up

(Off to the infirmary you go, where you would find a disapproving son of Apollo and a son of Hades who laughs for 5 minutes when he hears that he got taken down by a hellhound of all things)

But looking at you, talking with Nico while Will attempts to give him more ambrosia, he finds he’s happier than he’s been in a long, long time

He’s finally home

[lfcrobbo]

sewis “table”

"Guess the tables have turned a little, eh?" Lewis says, a small, amused smirk playing on his face as he hands Sebastian a glass of water.

Seb takes the glass and chugs down the water. He shoots Lewis a confused look over the edge of the glass.

"Normally I'm the one forgetting my keys and you're the one letting me in," Lewis explains.

It's the middle of the night - 2:42 AM to be exact, at least according to the clock on the microwave. Lewis had woken up roughly ten minutes ago to rapid knocking on the front door, and when he'd opened it he'd been met with the sight of one very drunk roommate.

Sebastian rolls his eyes. "I didn't forget my keys," he says, putting his glass down onto the counter. "I just- I lost them."

Lewis laughs at that, big and bright. "How is that different?"

Seb opens his mouth, and Lewis can tell that he's about to be ambushed with one of Seb's signature rants, that are even worse when he's drunk.

"Never mind," he says quickly, and without really thinking about it he reaches up and covers Seb's mouth with his hand.

Seb's eyebrows shoot up at the sudden contact, his eyes huge and surprised. Lewis' heartbeat picks up, and time seems to slow down just a little.

They're close; Lewis hadn't even realized until now, and he can feel the heat coming from Seb's breath. His thumb is resting just underneath Seb's chin, and he can feel the stubble that's growing there. He has to resist the urge to stroke it.

He tries to shake himself out of it. This is dangerous territory, one he's been actively trying to stay away from for ages now. He blinks, wills himself to remove his hand and step away, put some space between them again.

In the end it's Seb who moves first. He reaches up, circles his fingers around Lewis' wrist and gently tugs it down.

He doesn't push Lewis away, though. In fact, he shuffles closer, his grip on Lewis' wrist tightening.

It's quiet around them, the only sound in the flat being a low, electrical buzzing coming from the fridge and the sound of their breathing. Lewis doesn't dare to close his eyes, too scared to find out what will happen if he does.

Then - a loud crash from outside, a car honking aggressively. It pierces through the weird trance they seem to have found themselves in; Seb's fingers loosen, and Lewis steps away quickly, looking away. He clears his throat, grabs Seb's glass from the counter and moves over to the dishwasher to put it away.

"Who'd you go out with, anyway?" he asks. He doesn't look at Seb. "I thought Daniel and Valtteri were out of town."

A few seconds pass before Seb replies.

"Just - some other friends."

Lewis is about to dig further, eager to get back to some form or normality after whatever that had just been. If he acts like everything is normal then surely everything is. Right? But before he gets the chance to, Seb speaks again.

"How was it with Nico?"

His tone is neutral, if not a little on edge. Lewis flinches a little at the mention og his boyfriend. He hopes Seb doesn't notice.

"Uh, good," he says. He turns around again, leans against the counter and crosses his arms over his chest. "Yeah it was - it was good. We went to some fancy restaurant, it was nice."

Seb nods, his gaze fixed on the floor in front of him. "That's good," he says. He scratches at his chin, and Lewis is reminded of how it had felt against his fingertips just moments ago. "I'm, uh - I'm going to head to bed now, I think."

Lewis nods. "Sure."

He watches as Seb heads out of the kitchen, towards his bedroom door, right next to Lewis'.

Lewis lets out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

[itsallyscorner]

Bring Me Back

Pairing: Tom Holland x Reader

Summary: Filming “Cherry” had its ups and downs for Tom. When filming finally takes its toll on him, you’re there to instantly bring him back from the world of Cherry.

Warnings: Mentions of drug abuse, PTSD, murder. A smidge of smut.

A/n: In honor of the Cherry🍒 trailer dropping, I decided to write this!

(GIF creds: @atealiers )

Any kind of project was a blessing to Tom. He loved being an actor. He was fond of telling stories through the big screen and got a kick from portraying many different characters. Acting was something he felt passionate about, it was his craft and he was very dedicated when it came to becoming his roles. Cherry was quite different from the other movies he’s been in. It was dark and contained many subjects like drug addiction, PTSD, and crime. The world of Cherry was something Tom was not used to; it was twisted. He hasn’t been exposed to things like drugs or the events that Nico Walker had been through. Which was why he was hesitant to take on the role of Cherry.

When the Russo Brothers approached him with the idea, he was excited. He was getting the opportunity to tell another story and would explore the world of a new character. Though the more he looked into it, he realized that maybe he wasn’t up for the role. Was he really ready to dive into the dark and traumatizing life of Nico Walker? As an actor, he was willing to take the job, it would give him an opportunity to expand his career and would possibly be one of his best work. As Tom, he wasn’t sure if he could handle learning or re-enacting the events that occurred in Cherry. But Tom did like a challenge, which was why he ended up agreeing to become Cherry.

He prepared himself mentally and physically pre- production. For research, he interviewed army veterans and former drug addicts to get an idea of what it was like to be in those positions. To get the look of Cherry, he did a variety of things. For example, going on a diet and losing weight, then gaining said weight again once they had to shoot the army scenes. Another thing he did was shave off the gorgeous brown curls that adorned his head. At first you weren’t too happy with his change in hairstyle, but later on you found yourself running your hands along the short strands of hair, loving the fuzzy feeling it gave your palms.

After the interviews and hearing others’ experience, Tom felt a level of responsibility to tell the story of millions of people around the world. Not only was it telling the story of Nico, but of other army veterans who suffered from PTSD and people who’ve had drug addictions. He was fully on board now and there was no looking back. He was going to push himself to the limit and to places he’s never been before.

Filming was tough. There were scenes he had to do that were so unlike him, that felt wrong, and sometimes he just had to take a step back. They didn’t feel right, but it was nothing he couldn’t handle. This was his job, if he wanted this movie to be the best that it can, he was going to commit. Thankfully, he was working with the Russos, who he’s known for a while now. He was familiar with the two and they were patient with him, giving him the time to regain himself before shooting an intense scene. The cast and crew were very understanding as well, creating a safe space for him on set. Having Harry along with him helped as well, the familiarity of his brother kept him grounded and avoided him from falling into the void of Cherry. Though he had all these supportive people around him, there was only one person who could calm him down when things got suffocating on set. The only person he wanted to be in Cleveland with him but wasn’t. You. Since you had your own life and job, you were unable to fly out to Cleveland with him. Instead you stayed at your shared home with Tessa as company. All he needed was you when he felt the affects of Cherry caging in on him. Just the sound of your comforting voice over the phone could clear his head and make him breath again.

He had his bad days on set, where he would have to take a moment and hide in his trailer for a few minutes. During those few minutes he liked to be alone as he waited for you to answer your phone. The line would ring, it’d stop, then the sound of your sweet voice would be the only thing he’d hear. Sometimes you didn’t answer the first time, but nonetheless you answered eventually. It wasn’t the same as having you with him in person, you had your responsibilities, and he understood that. He just wished that one day you’d come to Cleveland. He wanted to be in your arms, stuff his face into your neck, breath in your familiar scent, he just wanted to feel you. You were his home. His safe haven. And it was all he wanted right now.

•

Glancing at your phone, you wondered why Tom hasn’t texted you yet. Not that you were itching for him to text you, but because around this time he would be blowing up your phone telling you things that happened during filming or how his day was going. You decided that filming probably went into overtime making him busy during his break. You shrug to yourself and continue working on your laptop.

You hear the sound of Tessa’s nails clicking against the floors as she enters the office of your home. You greet her with a smile as she settles herself beside your legs.

“Is it dinner time already, Tess?” You scratch her head as you glance at the time on your screen. It was currently nine at night, a bit late for dinner, but you haven’t noticed.

“Just give me five more minutes and I’ll get us dinner. How does that sound, love?” A somewhat sound of approval emits from Tessa. You get back to work, fingers typing away as you finish off the last of your work.

You finish in four minutes, finally satisfied with your work. You let out a content sigh and turn your laptop off. When you get up you stretch and let your bones crack after being in the same position for hours. Tessa joins you, stretching out her front paws then shaking her body out. You chuckle as you lead the way to the kitchen. Taking the scoop for Tessa’s kibble, you fill her bowl up, causing the dog to look up in curiosity. Once you placed the bowl down, her tail wagged wildly as she stuffed her face into her food.

You decided on going for something simple, ramen noodles. You were too tired too cook anything and ramen noodles were the quickest thing to cook in your pantry. While you waited for the noodles to heat up you checked your phone. You went through your notifications, but there were still no texts from Tom. Though you were concerned, you assumed that they had a long shooting day, making him too busy to text. 

Hi love! I hope you’re doing well in Cleveland. I know you’re probably busy, but hopefully filming isn’t tiring you out too much. Have an amazing day! Don’t forget to drink some water from time to time and eat :) Tess and I miss you and love you so much! Talk soon xxx

You send the text with a smile. He won’t read it till he was free or done with filming, but you knew he’d see the message while you were asleep.

The microwave beeps, letting you know that your food was done. You end your night catching up on episodes of New Girl and eating soup. When you were done you did your nightly routine and settled in bed. You turn the lights off and snuggled under the warm sheets.

“Night Tessa.” You whisper to her. A huff comes out of her as she makes herself comfortable on the foot of your bed. When the both of you were settled, you slowly drifted off to sleep.

Buzz

Buzz

The harsh vibrations of your phone shook you awake. Desperate for sleep, you blindly grab your phone and turn it off. Silence fills the room again as you turn around to stuff your face into Tom’s pillow. You were slowly drifting back to sleep when your phone began to vibrate again. With a groan you stretch back and snatch for phone off the night stand. You don’t bother looking at the caller id.

“Hello?” Your voice rasps out.

“Thank God you answered.” The person on the other line said. “I know you’re busy, but how soon can you visit Cleveland?” The deep voice was belonged to Harry.

“Uh—I’m not too sure, I’ll need to check in with my boss.” You reply. When you start feeling more awake you become curious as to why Harry can be calling you. “Why? Is everything ok? How’s Tom? I haven’t heard from him all day.”

The younger Holland sighs. He takes a moment to answer your questions making you suffer in silence, wondering what could have happened to your boyfriend. “Um, they’ve been shooting some intense scenes lately. Tom’s been trying his best but everyone’s noticed that he’s been a bit different.”

You sit up in bed feeling more awake. “What do you mean by different, Haz?”

“Well he’s snapped at the Russos quite a few times. There was this one scene, that they shot multiple times, and Tom would just break down after every one. (Y/n), I’m concerned for my brother, I don’t know what else to do. He’s locked himself in his room after every shoot. A—and I don’t know. I’ve tried to tell him that he can talk to me but he wouldn’t.” Harry explained, his voice croaked. You heart felt heavy for him. Harry was always there for his older brother, so to see him feel so helpless made you feel sorry.

“Haz, calm down, you know how your brother can get. How long has this been happening?”

Harry sniffed over the phone, “About a few weeks now. It’s only started becoming worse last week and now.”

The concern you felt for Tom grew. From what he’s been texting you, filming had been going great. He appeared happy on your FaceTime calls and sounded like his usual self. But maybe he actually wasn’t.

“Harry everything’s gonna be fine, alright?” You assure him. “I’ll call my boss first thing in the morning and when I get the ‘ok’ to leave I’ll get the first flight out to Cleveland. How’s that sound?”

“It sounds good. Can you tell me if you can make it? I’ll have someone come with me to pick you up at the airport.” His voice is quiet, almost muffled.

“Yeah I will, don’t worry.”

“Ok, thank you (y/n).” A small smile forms on your lips. You rub the sleep out your eyes as you glance at your closet. “Alright Haz, I’m gonna go now. But if there’s anything else, just text me or call.”

“I know, stay safe (y/n).” You bid him goodbye and place your phone on the empty space beside your side of the bed. Tom’s side of the bed. You bite your lip in thought as you worry about your boyfriend. You knew he was doing almost everything he can to make sure the movie came out perfect. If that meant shredding himself emotionally and physically, he was going to do it. Tom was dedicated to his work, but he’s never done anything close to Cherry, making you worried about the thoughts that could possibly be going through your lover’s head.

Tessa, who’s now woken up, waddles closer to you, sensing your uneasiness. You appreciate the dog’s gesture and pull her into your side, resting your chin on her head. You were basically sleepless the whole night. Although you haven’t emailed your boss yet, you already had a suitcase packed of your clothes. Your passport and other important belongings were already in a bag, ready to leave London.

The morning had been hectic. You’ve managed to get two hours of sleep, waking up at six in the morning. Still in bed, you sent your boss an email about a family emergency and how you needed to be out of the country for at least a week. As if the gods above knew of your situation, your boss willingly let you go, no questions asked and gave you well wishes. With that out the way, you scowered the Internet for flights to Cleveland. Luck was on your side that morning because you’ve booked a flight that took off in the afternoon. With your bags packed, you drove to Nikki and Dom’s to drop off Tessa.

Now all checked in, you were at Heathrow Airport waiting to be called for your flight. You were sat at your gate, with an iced coffee and a croissant from Starbucks, texting Harry. The two of you were discussing the time you’d arrive and how he’d pick you up. When you were both in agreement, you two decided to catch up. He had been in Tom’s trailer eating his breakfast. An hour passes and you were being called to board the plane.

You settle in your seat, but your leg bounced in anticipation. After the things Harry told you, you just wanted to have your boyfriend in your arms. You knew everything was probably getting to his head, all you wanted to do was hold him and tell him that he was going to be ok. As the plane began to take off, your lack of sleep caught up on you. Throughout the whole flight, you slept soundly, the worries of Tom subsiding for the time being.

~🛬~

The plane lands in Cleveland safely. It was night when you arrived. With your bags, you looked around the airport for a familiar curly haired boy. Harry waves wildly at you before running and pulling you into a tight hug. You laugh wrapping your arms around the slender boy.

“How’s your day been, Haz?” You ruffle his hair as he rolls your suitcase to the parking lot. He shrugs, “The usual. Was on set with Tom, ran around and got things for him, nothing much happened honestly. But you’re here now, so this is the highlight of my night.”

The two of you approach a black car with a driver inside, Harry motions for him to unlock the trunk. He lifts your case in before the two of you get into the backseat.

“How was your flight?” Harry asks you. The car began to move, exiting the airport and entering the highway.

“I slept through all of it, I don’t remember a thing about the flight besides getting on and off it.” You chuckle, leaning your head back against the headrest.

Harry nudges your shoulder, “Thanks for coming out with such short notice.” You wave him off. “It’s no worries, anything for my boys.”

The car is quiet, the only sounds that could be heard is the car’s wheels against the pavement. You turn to Harry, “How was he today?”

“He was pretty good in the morning.” Harry started. “Then filming started and he would grow frustrated after a few scenes. His temper’s been short. He snapped at me during lunch, which is normal, but I just asked him if he wanted some water. He broke down after a certain scene today, I tried talking to him but he still wouldn’t open up about it.” Tom wasn’t too open about his feelings sometimes. He struggled to voice them at times making all his frustrations and feelings bottled up in his head.

Half an hour later and you guys arrive at Tom’s rented home in Atlanta. As soon as you opened the door, you felt the heavy atmosphere. It was somber and tense, the chilliness of the weather also felt inside the house. Harry gestures up the stairs, “Don’t worry, go see him. His room is the first door on the left.”

You quietly thank him and climb up the stairs. You find his door, taking a deep breath before knocking. You hear some shuffling behind the door, “Harry I’m fine! Leave me alone!” His voice was deep, a bit scratchy. You frown at the door.

“Tom?” The room falls quiet. Suddenly you hear fumbling and the sound of heavy footsteps behind the door. The door opens and you finally see him. He was dressed in a large shirt with sweatpants. He looked tired, dark circles under his eyes, eyes glassy, and chapped lips.

“(Y/n)? You’re here?” He asks you in disbelief. A tight lipped grin forms on your lips.

“Yeah, Har—“ You were going to explain how you got there but he immediately threw himself at you. His arms wrap tightly around your figure, his head dipped into your neck, pulling your closer into him. One of your arms go around his neck while the other rubs his back soothingly. A whimper bubbles out of him, his shoulders beginning to shake. You managed to shuffle the both of you back into his room, closing the door behind you.

“You’re ok.” You whisper into his ear, pressing a kiss to the side of his neck. His grip around you never falters. Though he was much taller than you, he seemed so small at the moment. His body drowned in the shirt he wore, making him look thinner. You feel tears soaking into your shirt, making your heart clench in pain. You rest your forehead against his shoulder, holding and whispering sweet nothings into his ear until he was ready to speak.

A few minutes pass until his removes his head from your neck. You frown at his tear stained face, his eyes and cheeks red from quietly sobbing into your shoulder. Your hands cup his face, wiping the trails of tears on his cheeks. Tom leans closer to your touch, his eyes shut while his lips kiss your palm.

“I’m sorry, you’re probably tired from the flight.” He apologizes but you shake your head. You lead him to his bed and sit against the headboard. Tom follows in suit, desperately trying to get closer to you. His arms wrap around your torso, his head rests on your chest, while your legs tangle themselves together.

“I’ve had plenty of sleep on the flight, how are you?” Your lips are against his short hair from holding him so close. You nails scratch softly at his hair, calming him down.

“I don’t know if I could finish it.” He quietly admits. He shakes his head at himself.

“Why’s that, Tom?” Your boyfriend takes a deep breath as he sits up, removing himself from your touch. He sits across from you with legs crossed as he holds his head in his hands.

“I—I, it’s too much. There’s so much fucked up things he’s done. And all the things he’s seen. I just—sometimes I feel like it’s me who’s committed all of those things. When we shoot the scenes in the war and when I had to do drugs and rob banks, I felt like I lost myself—“ He cries interrupting himself to take a breath in. Compared to your fingers that ran gently through his hair, his clawed at his head. His palms rub harshly at his face, turning his skin a bright tint of red. To see Tom in such pain made you sad. You hated seeing him like this.

You gently remove his hands from scratching at his face and hold them in his lap. He stares down at your hands, clinging onto them as if his life depended on it. “I get lost in the character sometimes and I have to pull myself out of it to bring me back. But it keeps on happening over and over again. Then the Russos kept telling me to reshoot the scene more like Cherry, and I lost it and yelled at them.” You feel his tears fall to your your hands, making tears well up in your own eyes. You shuffle closer to him and kiss his forehead before pulling him into you. You stay quiet, letting him get whatever he wanted to get out.

Tom’s face is against your shoulder again. He sniffs before continuing, “It’s like everyday I find something he and I have in common. Then I think that maybe I’m turning into him. I don’t want him to be part of me. (Y/n), I don’t want to be him, I don’t want to do the things he’s done.” He sobs into your shoulder. Your heart breaks at how broken he sounded. His shoulders shook again, his back burning up with tension. A few tears made it’s way down your cheeks as you pulled his face away from you.

“Look at me.” You urged him. His jaw clenched, still looking down at his lap. He shook his head in response. “Tom, please. Look at me.” Your voice cracks. He slowly tilts his head up, your eyes connecting. He didn’t have that twinkle in his eyes, it’s like they’ve lost the light in them. Instead they were dark, like there was no life behind them. There was a mix of sadness, confusion, and even fear in his eyes.

You sadly smiled at him, cupping his face with your hands. “You’re not going to be him. You never will. You’re Tom. You are nothing close to Nico or Cherry. You are the sweetest man I have known in the world, you wouldn’t even hurt a damn fly. You’re not him. I know you aren’t. You wouldn’t do the things he’s ever done even if you were forced to. I know you Tom, I assure you, you’re nothing like him.” Tom hiccups, gripping onto your wrists.

“When this is all over and you’re done filming, we can forget about him. We won’t even mention him.” You assure him, stroking his cheeks.

“What if—,” You cut him off.

“No, there’s no what if’s. You’re going to be fine Tom. You’re surrounded by people who love you and will make you realize that you’re nothing even near him. You are the kindest man ever, you love your family, you care about your fans, and your brothers. You’re busy always taking care of everyone else, I think it’s time you take care of yourself, love.” You tell him. A small smile is on your face but it falters, “You don’t have to go through this alone, Tom.”

Tom takes a shaky breath in. “You’ll be there right?” He asks like a child making sure his mother will be there when he wakes up. “You’ll be there with me to bring me back?”

Your thumb smooths the crinkle between his brows, “I always will. I promise.” He nods and pulls you into him. You climb onto his lap and settle on his legs. He stares up at you, one of his his hands supporting your back, the other pressed against your cheek. “Thank you. I missed you so much. I’m sorry for not texting, everything’s just been so taxing mentally and physically.”

“No, don’t worry I get it.” You turn your face to press a light kiss on his palm. For the first time since you’ve seen him, Tom managed to crack a smile on his lips. He moves some strands of hair away from your face before resting his large hand on the back of your head. “I love you. I love you so much, (y/n).”

“I love you too, Tom.” You whisper against his lips. He takes that as a sign to finally crash your lips together. After months being apart, the feeling of his lips against yours felt like coming home. The kiss was desperate, like it was the air you both breathed. Tom had been longing for your touch, he craved you every second of the day, whether it be sexually or just missing you. The kiss grew rough, your teeth clashing, tongues poking and gliding against each other.

Tom lays you down on the bed, hovering over you. His hands grab and stroke at your body, trying to pull off your clothes to get close to your skin. He suddenly pulls away from your lips. “I need you. Please, I need you.” He almost begs you. Panting, you nod and push him to lay on his back. “Ok, let me take care of you, Tommy.”

He yanks his shirt off, throwing it to the side. You do the same, leaning down to meet his lips again. You kiss your way along his jaw and down to his neck. When you find that certain spot, he lets out a throaty groan, head falling back against the pillows. You run your nails along his chiseled abs and slightly roll your hips against his growing length. Tom grunts, hands instantly connecting to your ass and gripping onto your cheeks. He helps you roll your hips more, deeper with more friction against you two.

“Mm, Tom. I missed you.” You moan against his neck. You bite down and soothe the spot with your tongue after.

Tom looks down at you, lifting his hips to meet your clothes pussy. “Fucking miss you so much. You have no idea how much I’ve been dreaming of being buried in you again.” You kiss your way down his chest, but Tom stops you. His hands grab onto your leggings and slide them off.

“N-no foreplay. I need to feel you.” He stutters out, mouth agape. You nod in agreement and take his sweatpants off along with his boxers. You spit in your hand, running your hand along his dick to give it some wetness. Tom helps you lift yourself over him and guides your hips down his erected cock. You let out a combination of a sigh and moan as your walls envelop and stretch around him. Tom slightly sits up against the headboard, your tightness wrapping around him. He lets out a cry of relief, your walls around him feeding his cravings. You use his shoulders as leverage to pull yourself up but Tom stops you.

“What’s wrong?” You eye him cautiously. Tom shakes his head, “Nothing’s wrong. I just—can we stay like this for a while? I just want to feel you, please?”

“Yeah, we can do that.” You send him a reassuring smile as you settle back down on him. His hands make themselves comfortable around your waist. You maneuver your arms under his and wrap them around his back. Tom smiles at you, rubbing your back and guiding you into his chest. Before you can nuzzle your face into his neck, he presses a kiss to your temple and lets his fingers get tangled in your hair.

With his eyes closed in bliss, he whispers, “Thank you for bringing me back. I love you.”

You kiss his collarbone basking in the feeling him being so close to you. “I’ll always be here. I love you too.”

[cinnamonrusts]

sparda twins -- reactions

The Sparda twins reactions that you're pregnant with not just one, but two of their children.

DANTE-

You paced the bathroom several times as you gnawed on your thumbnail. Your eyes did not leave the plastic stick that was sitting on the edge of the sink near the toilet. The packaging read that results would be ready in five minutes, but the wait had it feeling like five hours.

Dante had left on a run for some take out and you knew that it was all the way across town, so it left you some free time to figure out your "little" situation. You hadn't told him anything. How could you? The two of you were not in an exactly "family friendly" business. Last thing Dante would need to worry about was a mini Sparda.

You had enough of waiting and snatched the test from the counter. Your eyes narrowed as they fixated on the single horizontal pink line, but widened when it turned into a plus. The blood in your body ran cold and your throat grew dry. It was as if the + sign mocked you and your stomach felt sick. You knew it would happen, Dante called himself the pull out king. Yeah - fucking - right, and this proved him to be very wrong.

The evidence needed to be disposed of, so you wrapped it several times in some toilet paper and shoved it in the trash can. Dante hardly took the trash out and it would be unlikely that he would decide to scour the garbage, so you felt safe. Now all you would have to do is just keep it a secret until you decided how to approach it.

It didn't last long and soon Nico was on the other end of the phone. She let out a happy, "'Eller!" but was greeted by a loud sob along with unintelligible babble. "Woah! Woah! [Y/N], you gotta repeat yourself. I couldn't make out a damn thing! You okay?" the brunette asked, concerned. "I'M PREGNANT!" your sobs now made sense. "Oh, shit," she replied. "Yeah, oh shit is right."

"Did you tell Dante yet?"

You scoffed, "No. I don't think I can," as you spoke on the phone in the kitchen, your eyes fixed on a photo on the fridge of you and your devil hunter boyfriend. The two of you looked so happy and Dante's smile was so bright, the vibes that radiated from the picture kind of gave you some assurance. Maybe Dante would react well to the news and maybe he'd give the same smile of glee at the idea of being a father.

"But you're going to have to at some point. How you goin' to explain a giant belly here in a few months?" Nico was right, there was no way around it. You pinched the bridge of your nose and closed your eyes tight, "Could you maybe -- I dunno, take me to the doctor?" Nico replied, "I'll be there in a jiff!"

Just as you hung up, Dante walked in with two large bags that smelled of Chinese food. "Food is here and beer is in the fridge!" he waddled into the kitchen and his happy expression turned to one of concern when he noticed you looked upset. "Hey, darlin', you alright?" he set the bags down on the floor and slid to your side, his arms around your waist. His musk along with the heavy smell of greasy Chinese food almost threw you over the edge and caused you to gag. You placed your hand on his chest to prevent him from getting closer. His brows furrowed as he tried to understand what was wrong but the loud horn of Nico's van interrupted. "I'm going out with Nico. I'll be back," you brushed past him, grabbed your coat, and dashed out the door.

You were able to take a breath once you jumped into the passenger seat and slammed the door shut. Your head rested on the back of the seat and your eyes closed, "Thanks for the ride." Nico placed a hand on your thigh and nodded, "No problem, girlfriend."

Several hours passed and you weren't home yet. Dante's mind raced with different things he could've done to make you so upset. Was it because he hadn't taken the trash out? He would do that soon. Was it because he hadn't shown his appreciation for you relationship lately? He would go tonight to get you some flowers. So, the man did just that. Dante took the overflowed trash out. Then he made sure to hurry, so, that he would be home before you. Dante chose a bouquet of white roses and a goofy card. The card had two hot dogs on the front who held hands with smiles on their faces. It read, "Hot dog! You make me happy!" Dante got a kick out of it and figured you would too. The devil hunter wrote a quick, cheesy blurb in a scribbled mess and signed with his name plus a heart.

He opened the door and was surprised to see you in a chair near the entrance. You seemed to be in a trance and were startled by Dante’s sudden appearance. “I got you these!” he handed his gifts over but his happiness was dropped when you didn’t seem very happy to receive them.

“Dante, I have something I need to tell you.” you found it hard to keep your eyes on his. “Well, here it goes---,” your nose inhaled, then exhaled deeply, “I’m pregnant.”

Dante’s face was void of emotion before he burst into laughter. You grew angry and your facial expressions matched it. “That’s a good one, babe. Whew!,” he clapped his hands and winced a bit with his hand on his side, “Ow! That laugh made me pull a muscle.”

“I’m serious, Dante. I’m pregnant.” you reiterated. “With --- emotion?” he asked as his eyes shifted side to side.

“What? No! With a baby!”

Once Dante heard it for the third time, he realized it all. He was going to be a father and you were going to be the one who would usher in another lineage of the Sparda bloodline. Dante rushed to your side and took a knee as he kneeled beside you. His palm immediately made its way to your stomach as he pictured the life that was within. “Hey there, little buddy.” You cleared your throat into a closed fist which drew his attention to your face. Your right hand raised slowly and you twiddled your two first fingers in the air with a small smile.

That same grin that shined in the photo on your fridge grew across his lips. Both of his hands grabbed either side of your lower torso and he stared at your stomach. “You mean, there’s two of me in there?!” His expressions were warm and overjoyed, relief crashed over you as this situation turned out better than you thought. 

“I’m gonna really need to get outta debt.”

VERGIL-

Your body spoke to you and told you that something was going on. Every morning you felt ill and you could devour anything in sight until nausea overtook you. Lady asked if there was any possibility that you could be pregnant. A snort left your nostrils, “Impossible. Vergil and I don’t have sex enough for that to happen.” your mate was normally not home, you often slept in an empty bed more than one occupied by his strong body. But anytime he was, the act of intimacy could tear the walls down of his brother’s building. He was a focused and controlled man, he knew what he needed to do to prevent another child in his life. You were okay with that, your job was not one that was prime for being a parent. So, there was no doubt in your mind that this was nothing but a simple stomach bug.

“I don’t know, all your symptoms point to it, [Y/N]. Maybe you should take a test,” she attempted to reason with you and you eventually gave in.

The entire time you played it off as just something you did for Lady so that she would get off your back about it. You sat on the closed toilet lid and held the test loosely in between your fingers. The box read that it would take about ten minutes for a result, so you avoided looking at it until roughly around that. But your heart dropped into your stomach when the test did not read negative, but positive. “Shit --- Lady was right.” your cursed and your head dropped between your knees as your mind raced.

Vergil just found out that he had a son, Nero, and now you would throw him the information that he would have now an infant on the way. It was a conversation that you did not want to have. Vergil was a reserved man who did not show you his emotions often or expressed them publicly. You knew he loved you but it took quite sometime for him to open up to you about the fact. He put back his one track set mind toward power and made you a priority in his life. However, he had issues with being around his brother, son, and the other’s -- so he often went off on his own. You learned that this was something he wanted and you did not want to force yourself to go with him always. 

So, this news would not be easy to break to him when he would return in about a week. With the test clenched in your hand, you opened the door to leave the bathroom to only be greeted by Lady who was leaned against the walls with arms crossed. “So, what’s the prognosis?” she pushed herself from the wall and followed you as you pushed past her. You tossed the test into the air with your fingers and she caught it, “What do you think?” you answered before she was able to see for herself. The female was shocked to see that she was correct but didn’t want to say that she told you so.

You were about to slam your room door shut but her boot stopped it, “What’re you going to tell Vergil?” Your back was turned toward her and you faced the window as you observed the rain that pattered against the window. “Fuck if I know. How do you tell someone like him that he’s going to be a father... again.” Lady was silent, you turned on your heels to face her, “Exactly.”

Lady took your hand in hers and gave you a comforting smile, “Hey, he won’t be home for like what-- another week? Let’s get you to the doctor, we’ll figure something out.” You smiled faintly in return, “You’re a hell of a lady, Lady,” she batted her eyelashes, “Oh, I know.~”

A Week Later --

Lady was in your room with you and the door was closed, the two of you spoke of your plan of how you would drop the bomb on your half demon boyfriend.

“Do you really think Vergil will accept it?” you asked just as the white haired man opened the door, “Accept what?” he asked coolly. Lady closed her mouth and first looked at Vergil, then to you, “I’ll just let you guys have some alone time,” she slinked past the Sparda man and closed the door behind her. His gaze never left you and his strong features were unmoved.

You attempted to embrace him as you wrapped your arms around his neck but he gave you a slight push away before you could place a kiss on his cheek. “Will you tell me what you were talking about?” You bit your lower lip and hesitated to confess to him. Vergil took hold of your chin with his fingertips, “Speak.”

You swallowed hard, his blue eyes did not waver and they were just so beautiful that you couldn’t hold it in any longer. “I’m --- pregnant,” you whispered. It was like time moved to slow motion, Vergil observed each syllable that came from your lips. Pregnant? Pregnant. Pregnant.

 A twitch in Vergil’s furrowed brows caught your attention, it proceeded to twitch several times before he closed his eyes and released his grip on your chin. “How?” You shrugged, “I thought we were careful every time, even with our more adventurous hookups.” He didn’t speak and just listened, “Why?”

“Why?” you repeated, “That’s what happens, Vergil. I can’t really make it anymore clear.” As per usual, you couldn’t read him and his thoughts were a mystery to you.

“So, I’ll be a father once again. At least I’m currently aware of this one.” he sighed.

“Two,” you interjected. It was as if you could see his ears perk up when you mentioned a number higher than he assumed. “Two? Another set of Sparda twins...” he was quiet before you could see a small smile on his lips. Vergil called for you to come to him, which you obeyed.

He wrapped his right arm around your upper half. His left hand rested on your stomach with a loved filled touch. His chin rested on top of your head as he imagined what they looked like and what life would be like in several months.

He thought to himself, maybe -- just maybe -- he truly deserved a happy life, despite all the things he had done. He now felt a stronger urge to want to be around you, the babies, and even Dante more. 

“Do I deserve this happiness, [Y/N]?” 

Your hand rested on his that was still on your stomach, “Of course. You always have.”

[solangelover]

Nyctophobia

A/N: Haven’t written in FOREVER but this was done a while back for the @after-everything-pjo-zine ! It’s out now, free download! Please check it out and support the other content creators who put a lot of effort into the zine. I had art done for my fic by @kalytera and it is EXCELLENT please check it out!

Read on AO3 or FF.net

Nico sprinted after the monster, directly into the forest.

He had been on border patrol and let the son of Hermes working with him leave early. They hadn’t had any monster activity in months and the kid looked like a zombie. Nico didn’t have too much sympathy for him, though, as he knew Cecil and his siblings were gearing up for some big prank. But still, Nico was more than powerful enough to take on a monster or two on his own. Not that he expected any action.

Of course, he was wrong.

In the darkness of the night, Nico saw something moving in the woods just beyond the border. He knew whatever it was couldn’t actually get in, but it was so close that Nico decided to go ahead and get rid of it. He had been itching for action anyway. The moment he stepped outside the border, the monster shot out of the trees. Luckily, Nico had his guard up and quickly rolled out of the way. The monster slammed into the camp border and whipped back around to Nico.

It was hard to make out what monster Nico was facing, but he didn’t care too much. It just looked like a giant badger of some kind. Not giant as in a Giant giant, but very abnormally large for a badger. Nothing major, Nico had faced down the worst of the worst in his life. This was a plaything in comparison.

“Let’s go, big guy.” Nico readied his sword. The monster lunged again, and this time Nico hoisted his shield to block the teeth, standing his ground. He swung out with his sword and grazed the badger’s cheek, causing it to flinch to the right and back off. Nico used the shadows to hide himself as he circled around the monster’s left side. It swiveled around looking for him, taking a second too long as Nico darted forward and stabbed it in the side. The creature screeched, flailing around and knocking him over with its tail. With a grunt, he fell to the ground, his sword skittering away from him. The monster, however, did not turn back to attack like he expected. It must not have been as invested in the fight as Nico was, because it began running back into the forest where it came from.

“Wha—hey!” Nico was affronted. He wanted that fight, and he was winning.

So here he was, chasing a giant badger in the dark woods. After running for 5 minutes, Nico realized that he had lost the beast. How, honestly, he didn’t know. He must’ve been out of practice. Or maybe the badger burrowed underground. He didn’t know how he’d missed a giant hole in the ground, but either way, he was annoyed.

The next thing he realized was that he was lost. Again, how he could get lost so quickly literally right past the camp border, Nico was at a loss. He was really out of practice.

Nico spun around, trying to see if anything looked familiar. Just trees and darkness. He tried to figure out which way he came from, but he got turned around. The adrenaline from before began to leak out of his body as his situation set in.

Nico was lost. Out in the woods. Outside of camp. In the darkness of night.

Well, okay, Nico tried to reason with himself. No problem, just shadow travel.

Except he hadn’t gotten the clearance from one Doctor Solace yet. But this was a bit of an emergency situation, so it was probably fine.

I mean, this isn’t actually that urgent, a voice in Nico’s head said. Just walk in one direction and you’ll probably hit camp.

Nico nodded to himself. He could try that. Why was he even worried anyway? He was looking for action—being stuck in the woods was the best way to find it. Maybe if he was lucky, he’d run into the badger beast and get to finish the job. So, he started walking.

And kept walking.

And walking.

Nico lost track of time and his steps, but it felt like an eternity. His breathing was coming out in short puffs, the cool air revealing each breath. His heart was beginning to race, though he wasn’t sure why. He was only walking. His eyes darted around, at first out of caution, but it slowly felt more and more like paranoia.

It felt like the darkness was pressing in on him from all sides.

His body started to tremble as he walked faster, but Nico knew this feeling.

He was scared.

A son of Hades, afraid of the dark. Ridiculous.

But he couldn’t help it. He felt its cold tendrils snaking up his back, making his hair stand on end. Dark fingers were curling around his throat. His breathing was shallow, and too fast, but he couldn’t seem to draw a full breath. His hands flew to his hair, tugging at it as he tried to ground himself. He realized he had stopped walking, just standing in a small clearing of trees, head spinning.

He was fine. He was in the forest, he’d been there a million times, it’s no different than in the daytime. It was fine. He was fine.

But he knew he wasn’t. He could almost hear the whispering voices, feel the tug where the shadows fell upon him. They wanted to take him from this world into the world of darkness. Maybe that was his world, not this one filled with light. Maybe they were right.

No, he thought. He couldn’t give in—he’d been through too much to give in. But isn’t that the reason he belonged in the shadows? Darkness and death followed him everywhere—maybe he wasn’t supposed to run from it.

Nico’s heart was pounding, his blood rushing in his ears. He belatedly realized that he had collapsed to the ground. The world swayed before his eyes. He was barely drawing in breath, his chest felt locked tight like something was constricting his lungs. Nico squeezed his eyes shut, feeling tears track down his cheeks.

Seriously? Here? Now?

Somehow, Nico’s thoughts were racing and yet, his mind was blank. The whispers were growing louder, buzzing through his head in an unintelligent stream of sounds. He could feel the darkness closing in on him, feel his consciousness slipping away.

He couldn’t breathe.

He couldn’t move.

He couldn’t do anything.

Suddenly, a sharp pain cut through Nico’s haze and made him cry out.

His body moved on instinct. Nico’s eyes flew open and he rolled into a crouched position. With a groan, he fell back down to his knees, gasping for air that his lungs so desperately needed. As his vision cleared of black spots, he finally looked down and noticed the fresh blood gushing from his thigh. His head whipped up just in time for him to dodge a swipe from the same badger monster from before.

Nico had never been so relieved to see a monster.

With the pain in his leg sharpening his focus, Nico gathered his energy and pushed up, suppressing a scream as his leg protested the movement. He drew his sword once more, still drawing in large gulps of air. The badger snarled and lunged once more. Nico quickly sidestepped and swung down with his sword, slicing the outstretched leg of the monster. It howled in pain, tumbling to the ground before staggering to its feet and retreating back into the woods.

Nico wasn’t planning to give chase, until he heard a large thump and another screech from the monster. He limped in the direction it ran to see that the badger had slammed into an invisible barrier. The camp border! Nico nearly cried with relief, completely ignoring the monster as it scurried away from him. Once he stumbled past the border, Nico fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face. He could see the lights of camp. They stood out against the darkness of the night, reminding Nico that he was still shrouded in shadows with his back barely within the camp border.

He scrambled to his feet, feeling blood trickle down his leg and soak his sock. He used his sword to prop himself up as he limped forward, refusing to look down at his wound, which was probably bleeding more than he’d like. While he knew logically that his injury made his progress slow, Nico couldn’t help but feel like the shadows were pulling him back. It was like before, when he would shadow travel and almost get stuck in-between destinations. The voices were whispering again, trying to lure him into the darkness where he belonged. His vision was beginning to fade, black spots dancing before his eyes. He knew it was the pain and blood loss, he knew that. But it scared him because what if it was him? What if he was fading again? What if he disappeared in the night and no one knew?

Nico’s heart was pounding, which was not good for all the blood still gushing from his wound. His foot hit something, and he pitched forward, falling hard on the wooden steps of the Big House. He moaned loudly, unable to contain his pain and fear.

He distantly heard the door creak open and felt someone kneel beside his head. Nico was sure he was nearly hyperventilating, both from physical exertion and panic. He couldn’t hear anything being said. Then, there were hands on him, and he desperately shook them off, afraid of being pulled into shadows.

Then, a sudden warmth washed through his body.

The air rushed out of Nico as his entire body relaxed, his head falling back not onto the hard wood like he expected, but into gentle hands that cradled him carefully. As his breathing steadied, he peeked up to see blue eyes gazing down at him with concern, blonde hair falling down and framing a freckled face.

Nico saw Will’s lips move, but no sound reached his ears before his eyes slipped shut.

---

Nico woke the next morning to the familiar sight of white walls and sunlight streaming in through the window. He sighed, disappointed he landed himself in the infirmary for the millionth time, before he remembered the events of the previous night.

Nico was suddenly very alert, his heart rate jumping immediately as he sat upright in bed. He shoved the sheets back to inspect the wound on his thigh. It was wrapped up in white bandages, but no blood was showing through. Will must’ve been able to heal it closed, or at least stitch it up well. Nico tested moving his leg around a bit, surprised that it really didn’t hurt at all. He took a deep breath, then let it out slowly, willing his heart to slow down.

“Glad to see you’re awake.” Nico’s head jerked up at the sound of the son of Apollo’s voice. Will strolled in front of Nico’s bed, looking down at his clipboard as he scribbled something down. Then he looked up and locked eyes with his patient.

Nico gulped. Will didn’t seem too happy to see him.

Before Nico could say anything, Will glanced down at his injury and said, “I fixed it up as much as I could. The wound wasn’t too deep. The blood loss was the worst of it, which is why you’re hooked up to an IV.” He gestured at the item, which Nico hadn’t even noticed in the few minutes he’d been up.

Nico nodded, leaning back against his pillow for a moment. He subtly tensed his muscles, assessing his physical condition for himself. Overall, he felt alright, just tired. It was probably the blood loss and… the other things that happened last night. He didn’t want to think about it, but it was like he could still feel the cold darkness lingering under his skin. His sense of panic out in the forest sat in the back of his head, keeping him from fully relaxing.

Will walked around the side of Nico’s bed, sitting in the chair and putting his clipboard to the side. “Nico…”

Nico knew that tone. The tone of a concerned friend, the tone of someone who wants to talk about things Nico really did not want to talk about. It always turned out to be a good thing when he talked with Will, but he couldn’t ignore his initial reaction of get away, especially not after last night. “Thanks for healing me, Solace.”

Will just looked at him, concern and worry evident in his eyes alone. Nico looked away quickly, unable to take that look without spilling his guts, which he most definitely did not want to do in this moment.

The medic nodded, not that Nico saw, and said, “Of course. You know I’m always here for you, Nico.” The son of Hades knew Will was trying to get more out of him, but he just couldn’t—wouldn’t—talk. Not right now.

Will seemed to get the hint. “You’re probably tired. The few hours of sleep you got isn’t enough to recover from your blood loss. You should get some rest,” he said reluctantly.

Nico glanced up as Will stood to leave, relieved when Will smiled down at him. At least he wasn’t mad that Nico wasn’t talking. He probably knew, to some degree, that there was more going on here than a monster attack.

Nico nodded back in silent gratitude for Will’s understanding.

“I’ll be back to check on you later.”

Will pulled the curtains closed around Nico’s bed, and Nico was alone. He could feel his mind beginning to buzz with thoughts and anxieties, so he quickly shook his head. The dark-haired boy shuffled further down into the infirmary bed, shutting his mind up and giving into the exhaustion he felt. If anything, he’d at least get a good rest out of this whole situation.

---

Nico woke up sometime in the afternoon, the sun shining in the sky. He sat up slowly, feeling out his body. His muscles ached a bit, probably from pushing himself while injured last night, but otherwise, he felt alright. The wound on his thigh throbbed dully. Pushing his sheets back, he saw that his bandages were still white, meaning it was mostly healed, thanks to Will’s magic.

The son of Hades glanced around. His curtains were still closed, and the infirmary sounded pretty quiet around him.

Nico paused for a few seconds.

Then promptly swung his legs off his bed and planted his feet on the floor.

He knew he shouldn’t leave, not without Will clearing him first. Will would not be happy with him (he knew from experience). But he could feel his nerves sparking under his skin, anxiety and fear sticking with him even through his nap. He didn’t want to be trapped in the white walls of the infirmary when Will eventually found him.

So, he stood up, shook himself out, and tried to look casual as he strolled toward the doors of the infirmary.

“Hey—wait!”

Nico glanced back, seeing a young child of Apollo nervously approach. “You—I mean, you can’t—can’t leave…?” She sounded so uncertain, Nico almost felt bad. Almost.

“Oh, it’s fine. I was just resting until I felt ready to leave.” He decided to leave Will out of this because lying to his sister felt a bit too much like betrayal.

Before the girl could reply, he opened the door and left.

Nico headed straight for the arena, intending to work out some of his excess energy so that he could go back to his cabin and fall right back asleep. He wasn’t even limping on his previously wounded leg, which he took as a good sign. He also reasoned that, considering a monster got the best of him, he should get to training as soon as possible.

He chose to ignore all the other thoughts pulsing in the back of his mind.

(Darkness, fear, shadows, don’t belong don’t belong don’t belong—)

Only ten minutes of swinging around a sword passed before, “Nico di Angelo.”

Nico winced at the tone. He lowered his sword and looked over at the entrance to the practice area, only to lock eyes with a stern (and frankly, intimidating) son of Apollo.

He knew better than to ignore the healer, so he waited as Will stalked over. The other boy crossed his arms tightly, coming to a stop in front of Nico. “What do you think you’re doing?”

Nico cast about for some kind of response, but he knew there was nothing he could say in this moment to justify his actions. Not without diving into the details of his monster encounter, which he didn’t exactly feel up to doing.

After opening and closing his mouth a few times, Nico simply shrugged, eyes darting off to the side. He heard Will blow out a frustrated breath. Meanwhile, the son of Hades distracted himself with the rocks at his feet.

“Nico,” Will said, in that same knowing tone as before. Nico nervously adjusted his grip on the hilt of his sword before sheathing it, if only to give his mind something else to focus on for a few seconds. There was silence for a moment before Will continued. “I’m not mad at you.”

At that, Nico glanced up at the healer. He could see it, in the soft blue of Will’s eyes, that he was being honest. Nico had seen Will angry—usually not at him, but Nico had pulled stupid stunts in the past—and this wasn’t it. This was concern and genuine care. Nico was always waiting for Will to stop caring, to stop reaching out to him, but he never had, and he was beginning to think he never would.

The dark-haired boy nodded, unsure of what he should say. When it was clear Nico was not going to respond verbally, Will spoke again. “Something happened out there.” His eyebrows creased in concern when Nico stiffened. “You don’t have to tell me if you really don’t want to. But I want to help you, Nico. I saw you last night. You were… scared. Terrified. And I know it wasn’t from whatever monster attacked you. That’s not you.”

Nico gave himself a second to think about it, before blurting out, “I’m afraid of the dark.”

Both boys looked surprised, a moment of silence passing between them.

Nico expected to be judged, to be mocked. He knew it was Will, and Will wouldn’t do that. But hearing it out loud, it was laughable, at least to Nico. He could see the irony. He was Prince of the Underworld, the Ghost King. But he couldn’t help it.

“That’s—” Will started, then shook his head, starting over. “I didn’t know. I’m sorry, Nico.”

The son of Hades scoffed. “Sorry for what? That I’m a coward? It’s not your problem, Solace.” He looked away, shaking his hair so it covered his eyes.

“Nico…”

“It’s fine.”

“It’s not,” Will said firmly. “I mean, it is. Ugh, I mean, it’s okay to be afraid of things. Everyone has their fears.”

“I’m the son of Hades. I exist in the darkness. I literally use the shadows to move around!”

Nico waited for Will to say more, unsure of what he wanted the other boy to say.

“Nico, please look at me,” Will pleaded.

Nico sighed, and peeked up at Will through his hair. He was met with an understanding gaze and a gentle smile.

“You’re not any less of a warrior for your fears, you know.”

And maybe that was truly what Nico needed to hear, whether he knew it or not.

But still, “I think it’s embarrassing.”

“I think it’s human,” Will shot back.

“Well, I’m only half, you know.”

“Shut up,” Will rolled his eyes. “You know what I mean.”

Nico looked away again, feeling a bit better even without having said much about what transpired last night. Maybe he didn’t have to. Maybe Will understood anyway, and really meant it when he said he’d be there for him.

Maybe he did have a place in this world, in the light, where the darkness of his mind and enemies of his past couldn’t get him. Maybe Will would be the one to show him that, once and for all.

[shortprince-cos]

Patton's Normal And Totally Not Angsty Birthday

Summary: Patton was fully expecting to spend his birthday with his stuffed animals and pictures instead of actual people, but his famILY had other secret plans.

Warnings: Crying, being alone for an extended period of time, angst, slight innuendo. Tell me if I need to add anything else!

Pairings: Platonic DRLAMP (all)

{Masterlist}

~~~~~

Patton was fully expecting to spend his birthday with his stuffed animals and pictures instead of actual people.

It wasn't a far-fetched idea, considering what had happened earlier last year. Everyone was still on their toes from the...fight.

It wasn't a fight though! It was more like a...big disagreement. That kind of maybe split everyone apart and left Patton alone...

But it was fine! Everyone just needed some alone time! Even if it had been awhile - a long while - since the incident. They just needed to think about things, and when they were ready, Patton would apologize and they would hopefully accept!

Hopefully...

Patton turned in his bed again, trying to sleep for the umpteenth time that night.

He sighed and eventually sat up, glancing at the clock. It said it was 4:16 in the morning, now it was technically January fifteenth.

Happy birthday to him.

Patton wiped the tears off his face and put on his glasses and his cat hoodie. Well, if it was his birthday, he might as well have a cupcake and make a wish. He'd probably need it, to be fully honest.

Patton meandered through the hallway, glancing at everyone's different colored doors. Everyone was probably asleep.

He remembers when it used to be just three doors in the hallway. Just Morality, Creativity, and Logic. Was it simpler then? Or were they just living in ignorance?

"No one knows you better than yourself, am I right, Tony?"

"I know big words too! Ssssssaxophone-"

"Who knows what'll happen if you don't adopt them, and they need a good home!"

"Anything he darn well pleases!"

...Maybe he was the only one not taking things seriously. They say ignorance is...better to live in, and Patton was basically swimming in it before his wake up call.

"We need actual contributions from you, now and then."

Is that why this happened? Maybe he's been ignorant of all the actual dilemmas this entire time. That's how everything went wrong! He didn't just suddenly not know what to do, he never knew what to do! He just hid it with jokes and puns and silly commentary to 'lighten the mood', but really he was just a distraction from their actual problems.

Patton hugged himself as he stood in the hallway, surrounded by the doors of his friends. Well, if they still wanted to be his friend.

Patton glanced at the dark purple door in the hall, cringing at the memories that came with it.

"Now Anxiety, if you don't want to participate, you can just sit this one out."

"Awww you poor little anxious baby!"

"And what about Anxiety, he always seems to get you down."

Patton swiped his tears away, hurriedly making his way down the hall to the staircase.

Janus didn't have a door here yet; he said he'd rather stay with the others in the hidden side of the mindscape.

Probably because of how awful they all were to him.

"Deceit, standing in the spot of one of my four best friends."

"Um, you're in my spot."

"Because Thomas gave his word, but you wouldn't know anything about words, would'ja mister?"

"I may be amphibian, but I can't say that I am fibbin'!"

God, they were so terrible to him. No wonder he doesn't like being around any of them.

Patton's hands shook as he gripped the banister at the top of the stairs, holding in his silent sobs.

All of this is his fault. He caused the rift in his famILY.

Suddenly he heard voices from downstairs. Wasn't everyone in bed? It was four in the morning, who would be up right now?

Patton wiped the tears off his face for the umpteenth time and took deep breaths, trying to steady himself.

He stalked down the top stairs slowly, trying to listen in onto what the voice was saying.

"Listen," A voice whispered. "I'm just pointing out all the possibilities."

"More like all the negabilities, seeing how all of them are negative." Another snarked.

"Just- does he even wanna see us? We basically ghosted him for months. We didn't even include him on the Nico situation. Why didn't we do that, he's the heart! He's like, the most important side for that!"

Oh. They were talking about him.

Patton debated leaving, going down there, or keep on listening before another voice spoke up.

"I doubt he would not wish to see us. If anything, I believe he would like to talk about what happened."

"Logan, we're talking about Patton here. If we talk, he'll just say he's fine when he's clearly not fine."

"That's not true." One obviously lied.

So all four of them were downstairs talking about him. Wait, isn't there supposed to be five-

"Hi Potty-cakes!" Remus suddenly shouted from behind him.

Patton shrieked in surprise, before almost tumbling down the stairs before someone caught him.

"Pat! Are you okay?!" Virgil said, slowly helping Patton to his feet.

"Y-Yeah, I'm perfect!" He said, plastering his Patton-ted fake smile.

Virgil squinted at him. "Pat, have you been crying?"

Ah. Guess the smile didn't work.

Patton noticed that everyone was crowded around him, including Janus, which meant that lying was out of the question.

"Uh- kinda?" Another smile.

Someone swore under their breath as Logan spoke up. "Patton, what are you doing awake at this hour? Don't you normally get up at seven?"

Patton stood up straightly instead of leaning on Virgil. "Oh, I just woke up and couldn't fall back asleep! What're you guys...?" Patton started as he finally looked around the room, noticing the balloons, streamers, and a banner that they had used for every birthday Patton had had.

"...doing?" He finished.

"Uh-" Roman started. "Well uh- we were kind of...surprising you with a birthday party?" He shrugged nervously.

Patton stood shocked for a moment. They were throwing him a surprise birthday party? Why? Why would they do that- weren't they mad at him? There's no way they would just suddenly not be mad at him! What was happening?!

"Pat, what's wrong?" Janus suddenly asked, putting a gloved hand on Patton's shoulder.

"I'm fine, why?" He answered on instinct.

"Padre, you're crying." Roman explained.

Patton touched his cheek, and sure enough, he was crying. "O-Oh. I guess I am."

Another hand gripped his wrist. "Pop-star, are you okay?" Virgil asked with concern and sincerity in his voice.

Patton immediately started sobbing. "No, no I'm not."

Some tentacles wrapped around him from behind - probably Remus - as a bunch of arms started surrounding him as well, securely trapping him in a hug.

Patton kept crying into someone's shoulder as multiple people kept whispering sweet nothings in his ear.

Eventually, Patton had stopped crying, just enjoying the feeling of a hug - a hug! - surrounding him.

Then, they started pulling away, leaving Patton with traces of warmth left over.

"Patton, are you alright?" Logan asked with concern in his eyes.

Patton rubbed at his eyes again and sniffled. "Y-Yeah. I'm just overwhelmed, I guess. I kinda expected to spend today alone..."

Everyone made a noise of either surprise or concern.

"Patton I..." Roman started, looking at the ground in guilt. "I didn't mean to make you feel alone, I just-" He sighed. "I talked to De-Janus, and he helped me realize that it wasn't like you were trying to make me the bad guy, you were just trying to tell me that Janus wasn't one either. So, I planned a party to apologize to you, and well, I guess the surprise is ruined."

Patton immediately hugged Roman the minute he stopped talking. Roman chuckled, but Patton could hear the tears in his voice.

"I'm- I'm so sorry I-"

"Shh, don't be." Roman comforted. "We all forgive you."

After another minute of hugging, Logan cleared his throat.

"While this moment is very touching and much needed, it is currently almost five in the morning, so I suggest we all take a nap before we get into the festivities."

Everyone made noises of agreement, when Patton interrupted.

"Um- could we-?" Patton started before cutting himself off.

"What's up, Pat?" Virgil asked.

"Uh- I-I just thought that maybe we could..."

"Cuddle on the couch?" Janus finished with a smirk on his face.

Patton nodded with blush on his face.

"Ooo sexy~"

"Remus, I swear to all things princely-" Roman started before the twins started arguing and Logan had to break them up before they could brawl in the living room.

Eventually, everyone on the was cuddled up on the couch and snuggling in one way or another, and Patton couldn't be more content.

~~~~~

Whoo! I finished on time!!!!!!!! I'm so proud of myself for writing this in one day! Though, I think it's a bit rushed, I forgive myself for that tho because it was written in one day lol

Ty for reading! I really enjoyed writing Patton angst again lol!

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Ask to be added or removed!

Reblogs are appreciated!💖

[thefinalcinderella]

Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru Chapter 10 - Shooting Star (Part 2)

The Ekiden continues!

Now that I finished the novel, I’m not sure what to do with myself now (work on my other translations lol)

Full list of translations here

Previous | Next

As he ran, Nico-chan recalled the phone call Kiyose had made to him when he was at the Odawara relay station. As dispassionately as ever, Kiyose had said,

“How are you feeling, Nico-chan-senpai?”

“Same as usual.”

“That’s good to hear. Please run as usual today.”

“Does that mean you don’t expect anything from me?”

“Of course not. What I mean is that Yuki ran exceeding our expectations, but don’t be influenced by that.”

“Hmph,” Nico-chan had sniffed. He wasn’t going to get so fired up by Yuki’s deeply impressive sprinting that he would lose sight of his own abilities.

“Well, I’ll go steadily.”

“Nico-chan-senpai,” Kiyose had said in a formal tone, “please maintain a pace of three minutes per kilometer. I’m sorry I can’t make it easier for you.”

“Haiji, come on.” Nico-chan scratched his head. “If you wanted it to be easy for me, then it would have been easier to not run at all. I wouldn’t have had to go on a diet or quit smoking. It was never going to be easy no matter what pace I’m running at. I’m just happy that I was able to get a healthy body, so don’t complain about how I rank either.”

“Yes.” Kiyose had seemed to be smiling. “Then, see you at Otemachi.”

He hadn't been lying about what he said to Kiyose: it would have been easier if he didn’t run. However, Nico-chan didn’t regret taking up track again after a long break; the pain of running, mixed with the joy of working toward a common goal with people close to him, had become sweet, and it was a taste he had long forgotten as he earned his own tuition and lived an independent life on his own.

With the wind blowing down from the mountains of Hakone at his back, Nico-chan ran. The seventh leg, which ran from Odawara to Hiratsuka, was 21.2 kilometers long. On the whole, the course was flat and easy to run. The route was the same as that of the outbound fourth leg, running in the opposite direction toward Tokyo, but it was slightly longer due to the detour at Oiso Station.

The first three kilometers, until they reached the town of Odawara, ran downhill, albeit gently. If he got carried away and increased his pace too much, the later half would be tough, so Nico-chan tried to keep his excitement and nervousness firmly in check and pace himself to fit with his stature.

That Haiji, he’s really good at observing people, Nico-chan thought. When he received the sash from Yuki, he was excited. At the same time, he also had a strong sense of pride, so he restrained himself from getting too excited and rushing in the first half. Kiyose probably read his personality and his relationship with Yuki and put Nico-chan in the seventh leg. Of course, he also must have thought that the seventh leg, with its few ups-and-downs, would be easier on Nico-chan’s legs and would be able to bring out his abilities to the fullest.

The thin rain continued to fall and his hair was now completely damp. It was easier to breathe on a rainy day than in the dry air. It was also fortunate that there wasn't much wind; running would have been out of the question if, on top of being soaked by rain, there had been a cold wind blowing from Hakone. The temperature was about one degree Celsius. It was said that the seventh leg was a course where the difference in the temperature could wear you out, but thanks to the rain, he didn’t seem to have to worry about that today. He would be running along the sea from now on, and the closer it got to noon, the more the temperature should increase.

The only problem is that my uniform is getting damp and sticking to my skin. Nico-chan frowned slightly. The lines of his body were clearly visible, making him feel as though he was running naked. Well, it’s been like that from the start.

Nico-chan wasn’t a fan of the light material of the running shirts and pants. Long-distance runners, men and women alike, had slender figures. Of course they had strong and supple muscles, but they almost looked like gazelles and antelopes. Such athletes would look good in uniforms made with a minimum of fabric, but unfortunately, Nico-chan was big-boned. Thanks to his diet, he was able to lose the extra fat, but he couldn’t whittle down his broad shoulders, imposing hip bones, or sturdy femurs.

When Nico-chan wore a uniform made of small, flimsy cloth, it looked as though there was an extremely large amount of skin showing. And now, it was wet and clinging to him.

It’s not like I’m a fat mermaid who was thrown up on the rocks, Nico-chan thought, embarrassed. I guess I should have at least trimmed my leg hair. To think that my hairy legs in all their glory will be delivered to living rooms all over the country.

He glanced at the legs of the runner running next to him. This guy’s leg hair isn’t even close to looking unsightly. Is it because he was born with thin body hair, or because he takes good care of it? Right after he thought that, he was shocked to realise that there was another runner next to him. Was he about to have another runner catch up and overtake him without realizing it? Nico-chan vigorously checked next to him, and then turned his head back to the road.

The runner next to him was from TSU, and he must have received his sash at the Odawara relay station about ten seconds before Nico-chan. He didn’t catch up to me, I caught up to him. Nico-chan checked his watch to make sure he was keeping pace. Okay, he nodded inwardly. I’ll be able to pull ahead of this TSU guy.

However, he couldn’t see any of the other schools in front of him. He had no idea what place he was running in, or what Kansei’s actual position was taking into account the delayed start time.

It was an unsure battle, so much so that his wet uniform was no longer a problem. As he thought that, Nico-chan entered the town of Odawara. There were crowds of people cheering by the road and waving flags, and among them there was a face that looked like a member of the shopping district, holding up Kansei’s banner and shouting something, but he couldn’t make it out because it was all mixed up in the surrounding chatter. It seemed that the only way to get information was to get it from the coach car behind him at the five-kilometer point.

For the time being, Nico-chan focused on maintaining his pace and pushing their nemesis, TSU, away. With only the landlord in the coach car he wasn’t sure if he could get the right information, but behind the landlord stood Kiyose, the shadow coach of Kansei University. Even at this moment, Kiyose should be working hard to gather information and advise the landlord in giving instructions to ease Nico-chan’s mind. Despite the fact that his own turn was approaching.  

Nico-chan trusted Kiyose’s ability as a coach. Kiyose was the second fastest runner after Kakeru on the Kansei team, but what made him stand out above all the others was his ability to see and allot people into roles. If it weren’t for him, they would have never come up with the idea to aim for Hakone, nor would they have actually made it this far.

Kiyose often ruled the residents of Chikusei-sou with an iron fist. However, he never blamed the residents for their inexperience in running, nor did he make light of their feelings and pride; he always tried to thoroughly teach the residents how to face running independently in ways that suited their personalities.

Because he had once experienced a setback in track and field, Kiyose was able to guide the residents of Chikusei-sou, almost all of whom were beginners. He had kindness, strength, and a conviction and passion for running. Nico-chan knew that very well, because he had also devoted himself to track until high school.

As soon as Nico-chan entered university, he quit track altogether. He saw no hope in running. As a high school student, he had taken the sport seriously—it was painful and tedious to set goals and run day after day, but he loved the act of running itself.

However, as Nico-chan got bigger, his bones got heavier. No matter how much he loved to run, as long as the competition was based on time, there was always the issue of physical aptitude. Of course he could run faster and for longer than other men his age, but it was difficult to see how he could continue to compete as a long-distance runner and aim for the top. That difficulty became apparent in his third year of high school; Nico-chan’s frame and disposition to store fat made him unsuited for long-distance running, to the point where it was hopeless even with effort.

Joining the track team in university, becoming active on a corporate team after graduation and then even competing on the world stage—he wondered how many such athletes were out there. The higher you aimed, the more you felt the brilliance of those with natural talent, because you had enough experience and practice to grasp your own ability, and you were made to realize that there were states you could never reach. In the face of his own stubbornly growing body, Nico-chan felt powerless.

Nico-chan’s misfortune was that he didn’t have a mentor to show him that it was okay to keep running even if he wasn’t a competitive athlete, and that if he loved running, he could enjoy it. Because he was still young and dedicated to track, at that time he felt like if he couldn’t attain great success as a runner, then it was all meaningless, and Nico-chan was so disappointed in himself that he distanced himself from track.

During his long years as a student, he learned how to live on his own and gained experience outside of track. And what he learned was that “meaningless” wasn’t bad. He wasn’t saying that to whitewash things. When you ran, you had to win. However, victory came in many forms. Just as there was no clear form of victory in life, victory wasn't just getting the best time among the participants.

The fact that Kiyose also had similar thoughts encouraged Nico-chan. It was both pitiable and absurd that he foolhardily thought there was only one way to victory when he was in high school. By distancing himself from running, Nico-chan had grown up, and with his sympathy and trust towards Kiyose, he threw himself back into days of running.

Kiyose was an excellent commander. He knew people’s pain, but he also knew the cold-heartedness of the world of sport. He understood all the differences in values and had driven on his mishmash of a team with a tenacious force of will and passion.

It’s Kakeru, who continued to give Haiji that passion, Nico-chan thought. Kiyose couldn’t leave it alone—he couldn’t leave Kakeru’s shining talent that was hard to come by alone, even after he got injured.

What’s amazing is that the two of them get on so well. Nico-chan wiped the raindrops from the bridge of his nose. It seemed that Kiyose and Kakeru were inspired by each other in every aspect, not just in running—at least it seemed that way to Nico-chan. They were moved by each other’s virtues and annoyed by each other’s faults. In other words, it's a proper bond between two fellow humans, Nico-chan thought. There was definitely something beautiful like friendship or love between those two; they could communicate to each other through running and their hearts. Nico-chan thought it was a miracle that the two of them met.

Nico-chan wanted to watch the connection and clashes between Kiyose and Kakeru forever. He wanted to see that very noble human state brought about by the act of the running.

That was why they had run together for the past year, and they were still running as hard as they could. As he passed through the town of Odawara, the TSU runner was falling back little by little. After crossing the Sakawa River, the rest was a straight road along the sea, and Nico-chan wondered if he would really be able to see the figure of the runner in front of him.

At the five-kilometer point, he heard the landlord’s voice from the coach car behind him.

“Nico-chan, right now, you’re running in thirteenth place. Koufu Gakuin should be 30 seconds ahead of you.”

The Koufu Gakuin runner for the seventh leg had a ten-thousand-meter time of 29 minutes and 10 seconds. He was a much faster runner than Nico-chan, and it was all he could do to keep the gap from widening. Nico-chan listened closely and analyzed the information he was given.

“In addition, Kansei’s ranking with the addition of the delayed start time is…” The landlord raised his voice through the microphone. “Sixteenth place at the end of the sixth leg!”

Even with Yuki sprinting and coming in second for the sixth leg, we’re still in sixteenth place? Nico-chan felt overwhelmed as he thought about the future. However, considering the fact that they had finished eighteenth in the outbound leg yesterday, they were slowly moving up again. The only thing to do was not give up now and hand over the sash with an even slightly better time.

“There’s a message from Haiji: ‘There is hope. Please don’t relax your pace.’ That’s all!”

Nico-chan raised his right hand slightly as a sign of acknowledgment. That’s right, there’s hope. It would be impossible for Kansei to win the Hakone Ekiden. They had already come in at eighteenth for the outbound leg, and even in the seventh leg of the return race, they had failed to make any remarkable progress. However, they were still in a position to aim for the top ten, where they would get seeded.

The reason why they were aiming for a top ten finish wasn’t because they wanted to participate in next year’s Hakone Ekiden unconditionally. They wanted to definitively bring an end to this battle with only ten people one way or another. They didn’t want anyone to say again that it was pointless for a team that didn’t even know if it would have enough runners to win the seed rights.

It wasn’t about meaningfulness or meaninglessness—they would run as much as they could now to show the proof and pride of what they had done.

Nico-chan’s arms, which were filled with heat, repelled the pouring winter rain.

---

King, who was running the eighth leg, and Musa, who was his attendant, were at the Hiratsuka relay station. King, who had just finished warming up, was running around the relay station, going to the restroom, and refusing to stay in one place. The relay station and the roadside were already packed with spectators, and King was nervous.

Musa decided to leave the restless King alone. No matter what he said to him, King wouldn’t stop wandering around like a hamster spinning in a wheel.

Well, he will settle down when he is tired. It is not a good idea to get tired before a race, but it seems that I have no choice but to let King-san do what gives him peace of mind, Musa decided. King had surprisingly sensitive nerves: if he was forced to hold back his movements, the tension would build up inside of him and he might explode.

That was why Musa was sitting alone on a plastic sheet spread out in a corner of the relay station, checking the progress of the race on his mobile TV. After cheering Yuki’s success, he was now watching Nico-chan’s running. Every once in a while, the screen would show him running the seventh leg. He was currently running near Ninomiya, a little past ten kilometers. There were many small ups and downs due to the bridge over the river, but he kept his eyes fixed on the road ahead and carried his legs in a steady form.

King finally regained his calm for a short while. He stopped running and sat down next to Musa.

“How is Nico-chan-senpai doing?”

Musa passed a blanket to King, who was peering at the screen.

“His pace has not slowed down. However, the gap between us and Koufu Gakuin University is widening. The opponent is faster.”

King wrapped himself in the blanket and began to do stretches while sitting.

“Our position?”

“It has not changed. We are running behind Koufu Gakuin and in front of TSU, so he is apparently in thirteenth place, but our overall time is still in sixteenth place.”

“Ah…”

King let out a sound that was somewhere between a response and a sigh, and rested his forehead on his stretched knees. When he was still, his body naturally trembled with anxiety.

“Yuki’s run was incredible.” King’s voice was cheerful, as though to shake off his tremors.

“It was. I am sure Shindou-san is pleased as well.” Musa smiled. The two of them remained silent for a while, staring absentmindedly at the scene in front of them from a low vantage point. The relay station was as lively as a fair, with runners, staff members, and spectators coming and going. Only the space around Musa and King was quiet, as though sound and time had left them behind. It felt like they were isolated in a tank filled with tension.

A pair of legs clad in track pants appeared in their fields of vision and stopped. When they looked up at the same time, they found TSU’s Sakaki looking down on them.

“It looks like this will be the last time the Kansei track team will be in Hakone. I guess you can say that it’s a good thing you don’t have to worry about a lack of members for next year.”

The polite and quiet tone of his voice made it impossible to ignore. King was about to stand up indignantly, but Musa grabbed the edge of the blanket and stopped him. Sakaki had also been entered into the eighth leg. He was about to run and he expressly came to talk to King, who was running in the same leg. Musa sensed Sakaki’s nervousness and pressure there.

“You still don’t know yet,” Musa replied calmly. “It is also a close call as to whether or not TSU can get seeded.”

“And right now, you guys are running behind us,” King fired back at Sakaki with sarcasm.

“Only outwardly. Besides, I’ll overtake you in the eighth leg,” Sakaki’s words were filled with strong determination. “It’s not just you, I’m going to overtake all the schools ahead of us.”

Heh heh, good luck, King muttered in his head.

“Why are you so worked up over this?” he asked out loud. Sakaki’s eyebrows shot up like broken windshield wipers.

“Of course I’m going to get worked up over this. This is the Hakone Ekiden. I’ve been running all my life to be in this event. Since middle school! You lot who are joking around and running for fun might not understand, though.”

“We are not running for fun.”

King was surprised when Musa said that and stood up abruptly. He faced Sakaki and continued, “There is no such painful playing as this. Sakaki-san, you should know that very well, yet why are you picking a fight with us? King-san will be setting off soon. Please do not say things to irritate him.”

You’re so cool, Musa. King, still wrapped in his blanket, looked up at Musa with feelings of reliability.

Behind Sakaki were the reserve upperclassmen for TSU. During the summer camp, the upperclassmen hadn’t been aware of Kansei, but that was not the case now, of course. “Sakaki, what are you doing?” they called out. They were worried about Sakaki, who was standing facing King and Musa. Sakaki, however, didn’t turn around.

King suddenly felt sorry for Sakaki. Starting with Kakeru, it wasn't only the Kansei members that were his rivals, but even his fellow TSU teammates were as well. He was so devoted to running and loved it so wholeheartedly that everyone around him was his enemy. He didn’t get along with anyone, didn’t get familiar with other people, and only cared about the times and rankings of other runners.

King felt pity for Sakaki, who could only face running in such a way. Putting his blanket aside, King stood up from the plastic sheet.

“Hey, are you having fun? You’ve always dreamed of being in the Hakone Ekiden, and now you’re going to run it. So why don’t you seem to be having fun at all?”

“Is it necessary for me to have fun?” Sakaki wasn’t shaken in the least. “This is a race.”

“It is, but…” King thought about how to put it in words. “Our captain, Kiyose, often says, it’s not enough to be fast. A long-distance runner has to be strong. I think he probably means that we should enjoy running.”

“How naïve,” Sakaki’s brows moved again. You guys are hopeless, he said, as though chiding a little kid for playing in the mud.

“If you want to make good memories during your school days, then have fun. It suits you guys. But I’m different: I fight and fight and win competitions. That’s why I run. I don’t want to be like Kurahara and degrade with the weak.”

“What did you say!” King quickly threw away the pity he had just felt and yelled at him, but Sakaki walked away quickly, seemingly satisfied that he said what he wanted to say.

“He really pisses me off.”

Musa soothed King, who was gnashing his teeth. “There are some good points in what Sakaki-san said.”

“That might be, but I’m still pissed off, so I’m calling Kakeru!”

King took out his phone from his jersey pocket.

---

Kakeru had just finished a light jog and was about to return to the Totsuka relay station. As he was thinking that his body was loosened up and that one more run after some stretching would be just perfect, Jouji, who was in charge of their bags, beckoned to him.

“Kakeru, your phone’s ringing.”

He accepted his phone from Jouji and checked the display. He thought it would be Kiyose, but it was actually King.

“Yes?”

Before he could ask if anything was wrong, King’s loud voice attacked Kakeru’s eardrums.

“Kakeru! You have to be number one! Make that annoying brat frustrated and drown in a sea of tears! You understand!?”

King talked on and on one-sidedly, and then hung up. He was so angry that even the people around him could hear him from the receiver.

“What was that just now?”

“Who knows…”

Kakeru and Jouji looked at each other.

“It’s pretty rare to see King-san so excited.”

“The only times he’s like that are when he’s participating in a push-button quiz show from outside the TV.”

“Oh, I got it!” Jouji pretended to push an answer button. “TSU’s Sakaki is running in the eighth leg, right? He must have said something to him at the relay station.”

That also seemed like the correct answer to Kakeru. King seemed to have forgotten his nervousness in his anger, which was good, but when he thought about how much Sakaki hated him, he felt miserable.

He didn’t intend to show his sorrow on his face, but Jouji seemed to sense it.

“You should just let it go,” he said and clapped Kakeru on the back. “I do want you to be number one, though.”

“Of course I’m going to run to make that happen, but…”

Jouji wasn’t purely cheering for Kakeru, but also seemed to have some other meaning in his words. When Kakeru looked at him, Jouji smiled shyly.

“I’m thinking of confessing to Hana-chan when Haiji-san crosses the finish line in Otemachi. Oh, I can’t wait.”

I see, Kakeru nodded. So Jouji is hoping for a quick race.

“But Jouji, even if you hurry from here, I’d be doubtful if you can make it to Otemachi in time for Haiji-san to cross the finish line.”

“No way, really!?”

“Probably. I watch the TV broadcast every year, and the runners who finish the eighth leg often don’t make it back from Totsuka to Otemachi within the broadcast time.”

“What should I do! Should I head for Otemachi right now?”

If it was for love, Jouji would abandon his attendant duties.

“I don’t mind, but I think Haiji-san will find out and drown you in a sea of blood.”

“You’re right.” Jouji began to writhe in agony. “I’ll have to make sure with my own eyes that the sash is relayed to you. I wonder if Hana-chan will wait for me.”

Hanako would wait for the twins to come to Otemachi no matter what without being told to. Even if it was until nighttime or she got buried under heavy snowfall. Kakeru thought that, but only said, “I wonder.” Kakeru was pretty dense, but Jouji’s denseness was as vexing as watching an armadillo move forward. It was probably fine to tease him this much.

As Kakeru laughed at himself inwardly at this narrow-minded revenge, someone called out to him, “Kansei always looks like they’re having fun.”

When he turned around, he saw Fujioka of Rikudou University standing there. He seemed to have been listening to the exchange between Kakeru and Jouji, and he had a smile on his face that reminded Kakeru of the Buddha in Nirvana. His smooth-shaven head was as shining as ever on this cloudy day.

“Wait, wait, this person is…” Jouji tugged on Kakeru’s sleeve.

“Happy New Year,” Kakeru greeted.

“Please treat me well this year as well, okay?” Fujioka said, like he was poking fun at him a little, and then his expression immediately turned serious. “The time has finally come.

“Kurahara. I’m going to set a new record for the ninth leg.”

Kakeru was overawed for a moment at the bold declaration. Fujioka wasn’t saying he was simply going to get the section prize—he wasn’t saying that he would be the top runner in the ninth leg of this tournament, but that he would be the top runner of all the runners in the ninth leg in the history of the Hakone Ekiden.

A new section record. It was a sign that one had broken a great record that had accumulated throughout the history of the Hakone Ekiden. It had a great significance, changing from the position of a challenger to the position of a transcendent competitor who was looked up to and pursued. In particular, the record for the ninth leg had not been broken for the past five years. For the runners of Hakone, setting a new section record was its own glory.

“I will break your record, Fujioka-san,” Kakeru proudly lifted his face and declared. “I think you will be the holder of the new section record for about ten minutes.”

Even Jouji trembled in surprise and fear at Kakeru’s audacious declaration of war. Fujioka of Rikudou would be the first to receive his sash and start running, no matter what. Even if he sets a new record, it will only be a “new record” until I, who departed late, arrive at the Tsurumi relay station, Kakeru had said bluntly.

Jouji stealthily examined the two of them standing their ground. Both Kakeru and Fujioka had a fighting spirit and anticipation for each other’s running in their eyes. Nobody could touch them, nobody could force themselves between them. It was a collision of pride.

Fujioka Kazuma of Rikudou University, the champion, and Kurahara Kakeru, the ace of Kansei University, the mishmash group. The people at the Totsuka relay station noticed the flames of spirit the two were emitting, and their hearts beat fast.

The time had finally come. The time had come for the clash between running prodigies, fitting for the finale of the Hakone Ekiden.

---

There was no sign of anyone to follow, and no sound of footsteps trying to hurry and catch up. Nico-chan was running alone on Route 1 along the coast.

Spectators crowded along the road. Right behind him was the landlord in the coach car. At the fifteen-kilometer mark, a water provider wearing a Kansei jersey told him the time difference between him and the runners in front of and behind him. Even so, Nico-chan was alone. Encouraged by the cheers that came off the sea breeze, he had no choice but to run silently, letting Kiyose’s instruction of “keep a pace of a little over three minutes” echo in his brain.

Yes. This feeling of loneliness is long-distance running. Nico-chan thought. Loneliness and freedom, like traveling under a starless night sky. No one but Nico-chan could know his heart rate rising to the limit, his skin slick with sweat that generated heat without time to cool down, the undulating of his muscles along with his blood flow. Until he ran through the predetermined path and reached the predetermined place, Nico-chan would have to continue to fight a battle no one else could understand, without being touched by anyone.

I’d forgotten for a long time. I’d pretended to forget. The sadness and joy of running in this way. It was the residents of Chikusei-sou who reminded me of this. Ever since the moment I quit track, I’ve always been waiting—for another chance to be given to me—for someone who knows my body is unsuited for athletics, but seeks and wants my soul, which loves to run. For a voice to tell me that it’s okay to run.

Nico-chan knew that this was going to be his last run as an athlete. The road to becoming a competitive athlete was not open to him, and it would be difficult for him to keep up with the intense training and still achieve even more than that.

Nico-chan was not chosen, nor was he blessed. If there was someone like that, then they should be called the god of track and field. One would understand if they watched Kakeru from up close. He wished with all his heart that he could be a chosen and blessed runner like Kakeru, but it was a wish that was never going to be fulfilled.

But so what, Nico-chan thought. Even if he wasn’t chosen, he could still love running. The feeling of difficult-to-control love in his heart was like the loneliness and freedom that was contained in the act of running and shone brilliantly within Nico-chan. Now that he had it, it would remain forever, so it was okay. Now he would put everything he could do into his final run, and his long-lasting thoughts towards the sport would end today.

From in front of Oiso Station, he turned north off Route 1 and entered a detour. With less than a kilometer to go, Nico-chan could clearly see a live broadcast car ahead. Behind it, he caught a glimpse of the Maebashi Kouka runner who had slowed down and was falling back. At the same time, Nico-chan felt the presence of someone approaching him. He didn’t have to turn around to know: TSU was catching up.

His mind wandered, but Nico-chan firmly kept it in check. Having run twenty kilometers, the consumption of his stamina was intense. Don’t get impatient. His pace was a little over three minutes per kilometer. He had to keep it up a little longer, and then it was in the last three hundred meters that he had to push.

Nico-chan trusted his senses. Like a bird crossing the sea without the stars, he kept a precise rhythm as he headed for his destination, the Hiratsuka relay station. The wall of people along the road got noticeably thicker with people pouring out of the relay station. The Maebashi Kouka runner seemed to have his chin completely up. This is the place, Nico-chan intuited.

Nico-chan whipped his fevered muscles into a spurt and began his hot pursuit. The TSU runner had the same thought and increased his speed as though flicked. There was the faint taste of blood in his throat, but Nico-chan endured the creaking and pain all throughout his body. The crowd of people at the relay station wavered, and he saw King rush out onto the line. The eighth leg runner for Maebashi Kouka and TSU’s Sakaki were also standing on the line. The three were side by side and calling out to their teammates who were racing towards them.

Nico-chan removed his sash. It was damp from absorbing his sweat, and he gripped it like it was a lifeline. King was the only thing he saw. With only that black and silver uniform in his sights, he ran.

The predetermined place. I’ve returned.

“I’ll do it too, Nico-chan-senpai.”

King, who had been handed the sash, quickly murmured that and then started running without looking back. Nico-chan wordlessly nodded and pushed King’s back. Towards Otemachi.

While flopping down onto the bench coat Musa spread out, Nico-chan stopped his wristwatch which was recording his time. For him, who had crossed the world of timed competitions, he no longer needed it.

Nico-chan’s final record was a 21.2 kilometer run in 1 hour 6 minutes and 21 seconds. He was in twelfth place.

Kansei had relayed their sash at the Hiratsuka relay station in twelfth place. They were four seconds behind Maebashi Kouka, and had relayed their sash at the same time as TSU.

Thanks to Nico-chan’s efforts, Kansei had moved up to fifteenth place in the actual rankings after adding the time from the delayed start. TSU, although apparently behind Kansei, was still in thirteenth place. Rikudou and Bousou were also battling for the top spot, with Bousou holding onto the lead, more than a minute and a half ahead of Rikudou. Yamato University, in third place, was lagging behind Rikudou by three minutes.

Would there be any change in the rankings of the top schools? Who would get the seed rights among the schools that were engaged in a close battle around tenth place? The deadlocked time difference that hid an unsettled stillness didn’t yet indicate anything about the outcome of the battle.

Nico-chan was lying in a corner of the relay station, looking up at the eastern sky. His hopes were not dashed. King, Kakeru, Haiji. Run towards the finish line at Otemachi. We’re going to prove it. We’re going to prove what made us run this far.

His exhaustion had reached its limits, but Nico-chan raised himself up in order to see the end with his own eyes. Musa, who was quietly standing by, gently put a hand on his shoulder to help him up. After gathering their belongings, Musa and Nico-chan left the Hiratsuka relay station with uncooled excitement and set off for Otemachi.

Previous | Next

[solange-lol]

"why don't we be friends (why don't we make out)" - (1/1)

words: 2,373

read on ao3

—

There are very few people that Nico forgets about. At least, as far as the people that have stuck around with him for most of his life.

He’s known Percy and Annabeth since they were young, remembering watching the two of them chase each other around the schoolyard and purposefully try and get desks right next to each other before they were inevitably separated by alphabetical last name seating. He remembers trying to convince Piper to do his french project and Jason sitting in the halls with him outside of the music room when they wouldn’t want to go outside for recess in middle school. He can still hear the alarm when Leo accidentally knocked over a bunsen burner in their sophomore year chemistry class, and the feeling of paint on his skin when Hazel tripped and sent half of her palette onto him in their art class.

Nico can even recall moments with the people he was never particularly close to, like when Rachel told him she loved him backstage of their winter concert after only having known him for five minutes (in a very lesbian/gay solidarity way, of course), or when Grover spent an entire hour hiding out in their school library to get away from their math sub.

It’s strange now, looking across such a large circle of people piled into Jason and Thalia’s house. They’re all people from his grade (or class , he supposes, now that they’re officially graduated), Each one of them, Nico can remember at least one conversation he’s had with them, one story he’s passed into his closer friend group that is laughed over and then inevitably moved on from.

It was supposed to be a big party celebrating all their friendships throughout the years.

Ironically, so many people that had such little impact on him, in retrospect.

Which is why it comes as a surprise to him when he sees a flash of blonde curls and freckled skin among the sea of people. He’s hit with what feels like a wall of memories of the two of them, laying in the same bed trading quiet secrets, and walks to the store to get an inhumane amount of candy that they can go share at the pier. Images of blue eyes, warm hands in his, and the sound of stifled laughter at midnight feel all too familiar. Nico is stuck on them.

He hasn’t seen Will in years.

It wasn’t exactly his choice. It wasn’t either of theirs, really. They had gone to middle school together, and from the ages of 10 to 14, Will knew the most about him.

And then their middle school graduation came and went, and Will left for a boarding school. Nico remembers, vaguely, Will asking him to come with them.

“They offer more classes, and there are more opportunities for help,” they had said, or something along the lines of it. “And we could be roommates.”

Part of him wanted to. All of him almost went. But it was the same year he lost his sister, and while moving to another state for school sounded like a fantastic way to avoid all his trauma, he had to stay with his family. Not that his father would have stopped him, but Nico knew he couldn’t go. Not yet.

So he stayed, and Will left, and it all worked out fine. They texted every other day, facetimed once or twice a month when their schedules lined up. Will came home for Christmas that year, telling stories about the other kids on their floor and their girlfriend. Then, when he came home for that summer, about their boyfriend.

Nico would listen, then catch Will up about what was going on at his public school. He had gone out on a date with one boy which was nice but didn’t turn into anything, and Will told him he would find someone eventually. They took trips to the mall together instead of the pier, mostly just to get milkshakes and have a place to walk around.

One morning, Will convinced him to bike to the beach in the morning to see the sunrise. The sky ended up being too cloudy, but they still sat together on the empty lifeguard chair, swapped sweatshirts and bagels with cream cheese, and talking about summer jobs and college.

Then Will left for their sophomore year, and school caught up to both of them and whatever kept them going was lost. The most Nico talked to them was through the occasional Snapchat sent to each other or on a group facetime

The last time Nico had called Will alone, it was in a panic to ask advice on how to break up with the boy he was dating at the time because he realized that relationships weren’t really his thing, at least not yet. Will had sat quietly, giving him occasional advice, and mostly just comforted him.

And that was it.

Nico had gotten a new phone later that year, and all their call logs and long text threads were lost into the depths of his phone memory.

It was bittersweet, in all honesty, and pretty painless for the most part. Maybe it’s because Nico never really forgot about Will. There was never any clear ending; no hard feelings between the two of them. He still sees their posts on social media, sees their mom in the store on occasion. He remembers passing Will at their local fair when they came home again for the summer of their junior year with their boyfriend that they were still dating, and then later again the next when he noticed that all posts had been removed from their Instagram including the ones with said boyfriend and nothing but will - they/them in their bio.

He wondered, briefly, where Will had gone when he didn’t even see him in passing over the following summer. Was he still going to the boarding school? Had his family moved out of the state entirely?

It never felt like a friendship breakup. It was clear now, though.

Nico wonders at which point it became one. He didn’t mean to stare at Will as long as he did. Everything had just come washing over him at once, and he was frozen in place staring at the person Nico had once called his best friend.

He doesn’t even realize he was staring until Will looks back. Their blue eyes meet his brown ones, and reality sets back in. The loud music he had drowned out in his daydream came filtering back through his ears, and he stumbles as people shove past him towards the kitchen. Still, his gaze locks on Will.

Neither of them makes a move towards each other at first.

Then, a moment later, Will is right next to him.

“Hey,” they say it slowly, almost like they were testing the waters, like they knew how long it had been since they had spoken.

Nico doesn’t know what to say. His first instinct was to hug them.

He withstands it, though, instead grabbing onto their wrist and pulling them past the crowd of people and into one of the rooms off of the main hall, which was miraculously empty. He can still hear the pounding music, but it was a little bit quieter with the door closed. Quiet enough that he can think again.

“Uh, hi,” Will tries again, and god, their smile never changed.

“Sorry,” Nico says once he realized he had just seemingly dragged them into a secondary location with no explanation. “It was just… loud. Out there.”

“I get it,” Will says, sitting down on the couch pushed onto the far wall and looking back up at Nico. They were wearing a pinkish-orange button-up Hawaiian shirt that looked straight out of their dad’s closet (Nico would know, he’s seen it before) that was half-tucked into mid-rise light wash jeans that were cuffed just enough that you could see a glimpse of where their socks met their Converse. Yellow, possibly the same pair they had bought at the mall two years prior when Nico was there.

They got taller, he thinks vaguely. Nico had too, but Will still has at least half a foot on him.

“So, what’s up?”

“Not much, I guess,” he shrugs, twisting his ring. “I mean, I graduated. I assume you did too.”

Will nods. “I did. Lou Ellen invited me as her plus one. You know her, right? Friends with Rachel.”

Nico nods. Shoulder length, cloud-like hair that was a different color every other week. Wore lots of random thrifted t-shirts over big pants. Loud personality, even louder voice. Band kid. Friends with Cecil; her good grades probably being the only reason he hasn’t been kicked out of the school yet. Once debated the legitimacy of gender binaries with him in an English class.

“Sorry for, like, staring at you before,” he says. “It’s been a while.”

They nod again. “All good. I was staring at you before anyway.”

“You were?”

“Yeah,” Will shrugs. “You’re easy to look at.”

Then, a moment later, “It has been a while, hasn’t it?”

“Yeah. You’ve changed a bit.”

“Have I?” They ask. “I think just my look, maybe. I’m still just as obnoxious.”

Nico snorts. It’s comforting to know they could just slip back into it like this. Like no time had ever passed, and Nico is back in their bedroom creating each other in The Sims.

“Are you still dating Connor?” Nico asks, vaguely remembering the last conversation they had.

“Nah, we broke up last winter.”

“Any reason?”

Will squints a bit like they’re curious why Nico’s asking. It makes Nico blush, immediately regretting saying anything.

“Dunno. We just grew apart,” they say. Then, “Sounds kinda familiar, doesn’t it?” followed by a laugh.

“I didn’t mean to stop talking to you,” Nico says quickly because he didn’t. There are days where he sees Will’s Instagram story or a tweet and knows that even though he could still comment, it wouldn’t quite be the same.

“Life got busy,” Will says. “It happens”

“I didn’t want it to. Not to us.”

“So let's restart.”

Nico blinks. “Just… start over our entire friendship?”

“No, just pick up where we left off.”

“Just like nothing happened?” he asks, sitting down on the couch next to them.

“Just like nothing happened,” Will affirms.

They’re both quiet for a moment, then—

“Do you remember what you told me when you first came out as bisexual to me?”

It was in the basement of Will’s house. Nico had come out as gay a few weeks prior, and when he was talking about the boy he liked, they just casually mentioned it. Being with Will like this again reminded him of something they had said, and something he later found out.

“I think I just, like… told you, right?” Will smiles. “And I said you were a big part of helping me figure out.”

“Yeah. I always thought you meant because I had already come out,” Nico said. “It wasn’t until, like, last year that Piper mentioned you meant that because you liked me.”

Will laughed again. “I figured you didn’t. You were always talking about what bad of a couple we would make.”

“Yeah,” Nico said, and his heart picked up pace as his knee knocked against Will’s by accident. Neither of them moved. “I actually had a massive crush on you for a while. I think I just said that because I wanted to try and get over it, so I wanted you to indirectly reject me.”

“Did you ever get over it?”

Nico laughs. “Not really. But I moved on.”

He notices Will shift closer, notices how their hands are now on top of each other and their legs are fully pressed together.

“Same,” Will says, moving their head closer to Nico’s until their foreheads are pressed together and their breaths mingle. They look at him for any sign to stop, and Nico doesn’t move.

“Good thing we’re starting over then, right?” they continue, practically a breath of a whisper before their lips connect, and god Nico did not think this was where his night was going but no way in hell was he about to stop it. (He’s not sober enough to care, anyway, and seemingly neither is Will judging by the strong scent smell of weed coming off of his shirt.)

Their hands laced together, subconsciously, almost like muscle memory from all the days walking hand in hand down the dock. (Nico wonders if his younger self was ever trying to tell his mind something.) Nico’s other hand comes up to rest on warm skin, brushing Will’s cheek with his thumb like he’s trying to wipe the freckles off.

Will wraps one arm around Nico’s waist, pulling him closer until he eventually just shifts so he’s in their lap. Will certainly doesn’t complain, only tilting their head to deepen the kiss and breaking apart their hands so they can run one hand through Nico’s hair.

They have to break apart after a moment, and Nico can help it when he laughs.

“Guess we were a little dumb when we were younger, huh?”

Will’s breathing heavy, but Nico doesn’t miss the familiar playful glint in their eye. “I don’t know what you mean. You’re still an idiot,” they say, pressing a kiss to the underside of Nico’s jaw, and another one right next to his ear.

He wonders if Will has thought about doing this the same way Nico has.

“Says you,” Nico says. “You were far more oblivious than I was.”

“I’m not the one who said we would make a bad couple,” they remind Will.

“Yeah?” he says, then leans back in to kiss Will again. Their mouths slot together, and god, they’re an even better kisser than Nico ever thought they could be. Something in his mind tells him maybe it’s not relationships he didn’t like, maybe he just knew it wasn’t the right person.

Perhaps Will’s that person he was always looking for.

Nico leans back, just barely so he can mumble “Lucky for you, I’m willing to test that theory,”  against Will’s lips just before they pull him in once more.

—

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[thebigqueer]

Do you think you could talk more about Will becoming an army medic? Maybe you could write a little fic about him coming home and surprising Nico like all of those youtube videos 🥺

ahhhh!! hi anon!! sorry for such a late response, i’ve been working on my own personal one-shots and haven’t had the time. 

thank you so much for the fic prompt, and i hope you like this!! and, as always: i do little to no editing on these fic prompts, so please don’t be too judgmental as you read through them as they will not be my best work.

Nico’s hand brushes across the blank page, leaving trails of charcoal along the whiteness as he runs through it. His blood roars in his ears as he works furiously. Anxiety thrums in his heart. He has no idea what he’s drawing or why, but he knows that he just has to. His nerves have been short-circuiting all day and he just needs a relief from the world around him.

But even as he sits in the Strawberry Fields, enveloped under the shade of a tree, he can’t seem to find the comfort. Too many thoughts circulate in his head. The world is tilting under his body and he’s about to fall off the earth.

Since Will left for the army so many months ago, he’s been on edge. What if something happens to him? What if Will never comes back?

What if he loses his Sunshine Boy forever? 

Tears burn against his eyes but he fights hard to push them away. He can’t let himself think like that. He continues swiping his hand against the page, leaking his pain into the paper, puncturing his anger across in black strokes. He can’t think like that. He can’t afford to.

A warm breeze circles around Nico, brushing across his cheeks and ruffling his dark hair. It settles his nerves, just a little, but then his heart thrums quicker again. The wind throws his mind back to the past, back to only months ago when he was sitting in this very spot with Will, talking about who knows what. All he can remember is Will’s arm around him, that cheesy smile across his mouth, his curls gleaming in the sunlight. 

And the scent. Like warm summer days, like citrus, like strawberries. Just like it is now. 

When the ache of emotion presses against his throat, Nico doesn’t suppress himself. A tear slips out his eye, then another, and a few more. Some fall onto his blank page and burst over the white, bleeding gray across the art. It trickles across the stenciled strokes and drips over the page, turning his once-black art into an ugly, emotional wreck.

Just like he’s an ugly, emotional wreck.

He throws the unfinished project to the side and brings his knees to his chest. He can’t deal with the sun right now. He can’t deal with the brightness when anxiety keeps crawling over his brain. The possibilities of so many drastic ends for Will press against his skull, haunt his thoughts, plague his nightmares. 

He just wants Will to be okay. He wants Will to be safe. He wants Will to come back in one piece. Would that be too much to ask? 

Nico isn’t sure how long he’s been sitting there. Maybe it’s been minutes; possibly hours. But his emotions keep pouring out, keep flooding around him, keep wringing him out, and he can’t control himself anymore. He’s kept his fears at bay too long and he needs to let them out into the open. Maybe this is good for him.

He knows that it isn’t something he should be getting emotional over. He’s a demigod, for heaven’s sake. This is the kind of shit he should be expecting. Demigods aren’t always going to be safe. 

But the problem isn’t that it’s a demigod thing. When demigods are in trouble, it’s because they’re usually forced into that trouble. No, the issue is that Will chose to go into the army. He put it on himself. And Nico supports him, of course. It was Will’s choice, and whatever Will wants, Nico will gladly be there for him. 

But it’s the pain of knowing that he won’t exactly have anyone to blame if Will’s gone out of his own volition. If this were a demigod issue, Nico could easily blame a god for his anger. It wouldn’t be healthy, no, but at least he could locate his rage somewhere. Because this is a matter of personal choice, however, it makes him all the more scared. 

He’s so lost in his emotions and anxieties that he barely hears the crunch off to the side, barely acknowledges the shift in the air. He’s spinning in his own world and no longer has a grip on the universe. 

Then a voice speaks up, soft and warm and comforting as a summer’s day: “Hey.” 

Nico looks up, anxiety spiking in his bloodstream. How is he supposed to explain why he’s sobbing in the Strawberry Fields to someone? What kind of excuse can he make up? 

His tear-filled eyes rove over the figure before him, trying to make him out through the blurriness. A tall, vaguely-familiar being stands in front of Nico, the tan of his skin absorbing the beams of sunlight. A mop of golden hair dances as the wind brushes against it, and Nico’s chest bursts with joy at the sight of the figure though he isn’t entirely sure why.

Perhaps it’s the fact that he hasn’t seen him in a while, or maybe it’s the fact that he’s already too disoriented from his breakdown, but he it takes much longer than it should for Nico to understand who it is. 

Will. 

The son of Apollo offers a shy smile. “Hi, Nico.”

Joy explodes through Nico’s entire system; relief crashes into him like a tsunami. His thoughts tangle up together and unfurl again, going at about a thousand miles per hour. Hundreds of questions strangle him. 

But he doesn’t dare voice them. Instead, with adrenaline coursing through his veins, Nico jumps up and throws his arms around Will.

He feels as familiar as ever, yet so very strange. It’s been so long - too long - since Nico’s held his boyfriend. His arms feel foreign across Will’s shoulders, his body too big to fit in the blond’s arms. He tries to melt into Will, to absorb his presence, but there’s too much giddiness in him, too much excitement. His blood thrums with energy. 

Will laughs, and the sound of it spills through Nico’s ear, melts into his brain and seeps into his core. That laugh. It’s been so long. So long. So long. 

Will’s arms circle Nico’s waist, and for a few moments, they stand there holding each other, loving each other, finding each other. A wave of emotions rise up to Nico’s chest and new tears fall across Will’s shoulder, explode across his shirt, but for the moment, neither of them care nor acknowledge it. It’s just them in the world in this moment. 

Then Nico pulls away and gazes up at Will’s eyes, a bright smile flashing against his mouth. Words hang off the cliff of his tongue, questions and reactions and emotions, but before he can voice any of them, his heart stops.

Because now that he’s seeing Will, seeing him head-on with his face and freckles and eyes, there’s something different about him. Something missing. 

As Nico gazes into Will’s eyes, he realizes that they’re not as crystal clear as they used to be. Something hazy floats above his blue eyes, a filmy wall that makes his irises duller. They look almost gray in the light. 

Will’s eyes look like icicles, sharp and dangerous. They look like shards of glass. 

Will looks shattered. 

Immediately all of Nico’s relief drips out of him, leaving him once more in dread. “Will,” he whispers. “Oh, gods, how are you?”

Will offers a wavering smile. But within the next second, something entirely new comes across his features: exhaustion. 

The brightness of his face dulls out and he sighs, closing his eyes. He leans his head against Nico’s neck. “I’m so tired, Nico.” Something wet sprouts against the son of Hades’ neck, and with a stab of dread he realizes Will’s crying. “I’m so tired.” 

And that’s when the realization hits Nico. He feels as though an icy sword has pierced his heart. 

It’s exactly as Nico feared.

This is not Will. This is something battered and broken, shattered to the point where it’s almost impossible to repair him. 

Nico’s Sunshine Boy is gone.

[starry-knight-skies]

I’ve been wanting to do another New Year’s kiss, so have a little Prinxiety <3

Virgil never got the hype of a New Year’s celebration, the partying, the loud music, the kiss to bring in the next year. But ever since he was accepted by the others, he’d sit in the living room with the others, laughing as Roman and Patton would dance, work on puzzles with Logan when the other two got rowdy, and sat with a fond look on his face when Patton would press kisses to his cheek at midnight. 

But as he’s sitting on the couch as the clock ticked closer to midnight, Virgil found himself feeling rather restless. A lot has happened this year, good and bad, and he’s come to a sort of realization these last couple weeks. The subject of that realization was currently spinning Patton around the room in a silly dance, a grin on both of their faces. Roman was normally a very flirty type, but recently, Virgil couldn’t help but feel that maybe there’s more to it than just being friendly. The flushed cheeks when Virgil flirts back helped him feel more confident about this feeling, but he’s never brought it up to confirm. What if he’s wrong? 

Bravery... Roman had said he was brave, back when Thomas met Nico, in that confident, self-assured way of his. And he’s made it clear several times after the fact how much he admires that about him. So maybe... He can be brave about his feelings. Words weren’t his strong suit, and as the clock ticked into the last minute, an idea came to him.

It was risky, he could ruin their friendship. But it was worth the risk, and as he stepped up next to Roman, he found that he wasn’t as nervous about it as he thought it would be. The clock struck midnight, cheers for the new year rang out, and Virgil reached out, grabbing onto the front of Roman’s shirt and pulling him down to press their lips together. It only lasted a couple seconds before he was pulling back, and Virgil could feel his heart racing at the flustered look on Roman’s face.

A hand lifted, fingers calloused and a little rough from writing and guitar, gently stroked his cheek. Any apology Virgil would have wanted to say died in his throat at the soft affection in Roman’s eyes, and words weren’t needed as his head was angled up again for another kiss. They could talk later, this was a much more enjoyable use of their time. (Virgil very pointedly ignored Patton’s sharp inhale behind them and excited giggles. A different problem for a different day)

[starrywhump]

Hi can you post more Nico angst Maybe some stripping, gagging, tying up, etc

Thanks for the ask!  Here is some Nico angst, it’s very much emotionally whumpy as well as the physical aspect.  Please excuse typos I’m a terrible proofreader. Hope y’all enjoy!

First | Previous | Next

Nico shivered, he could still feel Rhea’s hands on him.  She had left hours ago, after thoroughly enjoying the final break of Nico’s defiance. But he could still feel her hands invading his space.  He scratched at his neck, trying to get rid of the feeling of her touch.  It didn’t help.

Nico was the cleanest he had been since he was captured, but he felt dirtier than ever.  A disgusting layer of humiliation laid on his skin.  He had to do it, he knew that.  He wasn’t just going to let Rhea shoot Ash, but his just blatant obedience made him sick. 

Even worse than that, he cried, he let Rhea get to him.  He felt like vomiting at the thought.  He tried to tell himself that just because he submitted to Rhea’s will this one time, it didn’t mean he gave up, but it sure felt like the beginning of the end.  

More and more the little voice in his head told him how much easier it would be to just stop fighting. 

Nico dug his fingers into his neck, focusing his mind on the dull stinging left in the wake of his fingernails. It helped a little. 

“N-Nico?” Ash’s voice was weak, it barely traveled across the cell to where Nico was sitting.

Nico got up quickly, moving to sit next to Ash in the middle of the floor, “Right here,” he said softly. 

Ash smiled weakly, dried blood around his lips cracked a bit as his skin moved. 

Right after Rhea had left earlier, Nico had, with some difficulty, untied Ash’s hands.  But even now he wasn’t restrained Ash could barely move.  Nico didn’t know the full extent of his injuries, but he looked pretty horrible.  

“you... ‘k?” it seemed to take a lot of effort for Ash to get the words out. 

Nico scoffed, “I don’t think I’m the person to be worrying about right now.” 

Ash laughed, or tried to, it came out more as weak cough.  He winced at the movement.

“Are you... what’s wrong?”  Nico’s voice was filled with concern.

Ash shook his head, unable to speak through his spluttering coughs.  Red flecks became clear on his lips.

“You need to be upright come on,” Nico spoke firmly, not letting his worries show in his voice. 

Ash didn’t seem to hear him, his eyes were filled with panic as he tried to get a moment to breathe. 

Nico carefully put a hand under Ash’s head to support him as he lifted him to a sitting position.

Ash’s eyes squeezed closed as Nico pulled him up.

He collapsed forward onto Nico's shoulder, blood trickling out of his mouth onto Nico’s shirt. 

Nico knew he should try to say something to comfort his friend. He opened his mouth but couldn't think of the right words.

Ash’s breath was ragged, desperately trying to get air into his lungs.

"Shushh, just... it's ok. Just- just try to breathe, slowly,” Nico’s tone came out more awkward than comforting. 

"t-trying.." Ash stuttered out.

"It's gonna b-"

Nico was interrupted as the door to their cell swung open.

"Awww, what a pair of darlings," Rhea cooed.

Nico bit his cheek, stopping himself from instantly snapping at her. For Ash's sake he couldn't, if he did something to make her mad it would only hurt him.  He couldn’t let her get to him.

"He needs a doctor." 

"Well he's still alive so he can't need one that bad," Rhea stepped into the room, letting the door close behind her.

"He's coughing up blood, that's not good. He needs a doctor." Nico grit his teeth, trying to keep himself from yelling.

Rhea pondered for a minute before shrugging, "Well I have three of you, if it's really that bad, he isn't integral to my little experiments."

"You're fucking sick," Nico growled.

A groan from Ash cut off their conversation, more blood spilled from his mouth.  Nico felt Ash’s body go slack in his grip, passing back out. 

Rhea moved on, ignoring him, “Today is a particularly special day. I have a nice little surprise for you all."

Nico's heart dropped, he knew that Rhea's words could mean nothing good.

Rhea reached to her belt for her radio, "bring it in please."

No no whatever it is keep it the fuck away. 

“You should be excited,” Rhea smiled.

Nico wrapped his arms protectively around Ash, “I’m not.”

Rhea gave him an exaggerated pout.  She opened her mouth to respond but was interrupted by a knock at the cell door. 

The door creaked open and one of Rhea’s men, carrying some kind of metal tool and what looked like a car battery.  Rhea watched with excitement as he set his armful down, she gave the guard a nod towards Nico, “put him back up on the wall please.”

Nico’s chest clenched. The last thing he wanted was to be chained up away from Ash, unable to stop Rhea from doing whatever she wanted to his friend.

The guard nodded and made his way towards Nico, grabbing him roughly by the back of the shirt.

“Wait!  Wait, let me let him down, so he doesn’t fall.” Nico felt a pang of humiliation rush through his body, his voice sounded dangerously close to a beg. 

The guard paused, looking up to Rhea.  She nodded silently with an amused smirk. 

Nico put his hand back behind Ash’s head as he lowered him back to the ground. 

As soon as Ash’s back was against the floor the guard pulled at Nico’s collar.

Nico elbowed back at the guard, “Just wait a second!” he growled.

Nico managed to push Ash to his side, albeit a bit rougher than he would have wished for, at least he wasn’t going to choke on his own blood. 

With a yank from the man behind him, Nico was forced to his feet.  He was slammed back into the wall, the air knocked from his lungs.

Nico coughed violently as the guard grabbed and fastened his wrists into the cuffs above him.  Nico was still gasping to regain his breathe when the guard stepped away.

Rhea dismissed the man with a silent wave, leaving Nico and Ash alone with just her. 

She turned to fiddle with what the guard had brought in.  From this new vantage point, Nico could clearly see Rhea’s newest implement of grief. But he still couldn’t exactly tell what it was. One piece of it was a large battery, a cord ran from the battery to a metal rod, about as long as his forearm, there was a flat disc of metal at the end of the rod. 

Rhea held the rod by its black handle, she turned slightly to adjust something on the other side of the battery. 

As she twisted Nico could see the bottom of the disc, in risen metal letters he could make out the words “Property of Rhea” with a small heart underneath. 

His eyes widened in horror as he realized what it was, “No! No... you can’t be serious!” 

Rhea flipped a switch on the battery, and a faint buzzing filled the room, “What a smart boy you are, figuring it out all by himself.  Though I am disappointed I didn’t get to tell you all about it myself.” 

“You-” Nico stopped the insults from rolling off his tongue, if he wanted any chance of this not happening he couldn’t make her angry.

“If- If- the cops ever saw it they’ll know your name, you can’t-”

“Do you really think I have only one?  And even if this was my real name, without a last name it's practically useless.”

no no no no no no. 

Nico’s mind was racing, there was no way this was happening, this couldn’t be happening. 

Rhea placed the brand on the floor, walking over to Nico,  “I know, it’s a lot, it’s scary, but I know you can do it,” she ran a hand through Nico’s hair. 

Nico jerked his head to the side, there was nowhere far enough to escape her touch. 

Rhea smiled at him, a warm smile that may have even been comforting in different circumstances, “It needs a few minutes to warm up, and after that, it will be over before you know it.” 

“You- you can’t fucking brand me,” Nico tried to stop from stuttering. 

“Language Nico, you had been doing so well.”

Rhea released his hair, she took a few steps back to look at both boys, “So who wants to go first.”

shit shit SHIT.

Nico hadn’t even thought of Ash.  He mentally kicked himself for being so selfish, worrying about himself when Ash was over there passed out on the floor. 

“You can’t do that to him now.”

“I can do whatever I want, both of you are getting it today.”

“Look at him!  You almost killed him he can’t handle anything else!  He’s already coughing up blood you can’t fuc-” Nico stopped himself, “you can’t burn him on top of all that.” 

“Hmmm,” Rhea made a mockery of thinking it over, “last I checked you don’t get to say what I can’t do.”

Nico felt hopeless, there was nothing he could do, nothing except, “What do you want me to do?”

Rhea gave him a questioning look.

“There’s always something you want from me.  Something I haven’t done yet that you want me to do.  I’m the one you can’t break, can’t get to do what you want.  Well, I will now, what will it take for you to leave him alone?”  Nico’s breathing quickened anticipating whatever horror he had just signed himself up for. 

“Well,”  Rhea’s face spread into a grin, “that is a delicious proposition.  So you’ll be branded?  And do whatever I want?”

“If you leave him alone.”

“He’s going to get it later on anyway.  Is all that pain, the humiliation, is it really worth it?”

Nico knew it was.  He wanted to help Ash.  This would take away the one real thing Rhea hadn’t been able to steal.  She could beat him and cut him however much she wanted but there was no way to force his obedience.  Now he was bartering it away for a temporary save. 

“He goes to a hospital too.”

Rhea gave an exasperated shake of her head, “I can’t do that, you-”

“Then medical care, at least- it can be here.  This is obviously some kind of criminal base or something and you must have a hospital or medical center.  Ash gets the care he needs, nicely, with pain meds and stuff not as another way for you to torment him.”

“You really think of everything don’t y-”

“And Hazel, she gets it as well.  Both of them, fixed up, and out of pain.”

Nico wracked his brain trying to think of anything else he could ask for.  The more panicked he got the harder it was for him to think. 

Rhea paused as if thinking it over, “I suppose... I might agree, but it would have to be very enticing to be worth it.”

“What do you want me to do?” Nico repeated.

“Submit, fully.  Do what I say, beg when I ask, no fighting, no cursing, no attitude. The second you slip up the deal’s off.”

Nico tilted his head up to try and stop tears slipping out of his eyes, his voice shook slightly, “I won’t slip up.”

“Well,” Rhea turned back to the brand, “good then, as long as you keep being good, they will receive medical attention, they won’t be hurt.  I expect your very best behavior and your active participation, can you do that?”

Nico nodded.

Rhea held the brand, turning back to Nico and raising an eyebrow expectantly.

Nico realized his mistake, “yes ma’am,” he corrected himself.

Rhea didn’t look satisfied. 

What did she want? 

Nico’s lungs felt tight, it dawned on him what she wanted, “Please, uh... please do it,” he could barely force out the words, “brand me.” 

“You can do better than that.”

Nico took in a stuttering breath, “please, please I want you to... it would uh- make me happy, please Rhea please brand me.” 

Nico let the words tumble out of his mouth reminding himself over and over he didn’t mean it. 

Rhea nodded, smiling she stepped toward Nico with the brand.  With one hand she traced her fingers along the hem of Nico’s shirt, gently lifting it up to expose his bare torso.  

“Hold this,” Rhea pushed the fabric into one of Nico’s cuffed hands.

“Yes ma’am,” Nico took it quickly, the tee-shirt now covering his view of Rhea.  He was breathing fast and heavy, having a hard time getting enough oxygen.  

Waiting for it to happen felt worse than-

That thought was quickly disproven as the red hot metal met his ribcage.  

He wasn’t sure if he screamed or not, he probably did.  

Everything just whited out for Nico, his vision, hearing, all just white, blinding pain.  

Worse than anything Nico had ever felt before.  

It felt like an eternity before the blind white screen faded back to Rhea’s face in front of him. 

Now he could tell he was screaming. 

His throat burned as he cried out, gasping for air. 

Rhea held Nico’s tee shirt up, Nico must have dropped it in his surprise, she was murmuring reassurances Nico couldn’t hear over his own sounds of pain. 

Finally, Rhea pulled the brand off of Nico, it pulled on his skin eliciting a yelp from her captive. 

Nico was breathing hard as he tried to regain his composure. 

It hurt. 

It hurt so incredibly bad. 

 All thoughts of strength or regaining his dignity were gone from Nico’s head. 

 Broken sobs came from the boy as he tried to get through it. 

“Shushhh, good job darling, good job,” Rhea’s hands were in his hair again but Nico barely felt it. 

His side felt like it was on fire, his tee-shirt brushing against it was unbearable. 

“Tell me what you feel,” Rhea’s voice dripped with a sick fascination.

Nico barely processed what she said, he looked up at her confused. 

“Tell me what you feel,” Rhea repeated more slowly.

Nico knew he had to, had to give his complete cooperation. 

“H-hu-hurts,” Nico struggled to talk between sobs.

“Mmmm I know, I know it hurts darling, but you did so good.”

Nico was limp in her hands as Rhea maneuvered his head to rest on her shoulder, “You did so good for me, don’t worry.” 

[amiramorozova]

Dual Summoner x The Darkling pt. 41

Pairing: Dual Summoner Amira Silina x The Darkling General Kirigan/Aleksander Morozova Word count: 3482

glossary: Moye Serdtse- My heart

I looked at the window and saw it was morning but the sun hadn't come up yet, but I couldn't feel like sleeping at the moment. I got up as I knew that was different and I felt him nearby before I heard the knock on the door realizing he was awake too. Getting up I walked over to the door putting my hand on it knowing he was on the other side of the door but I didn't know if I wanted to open the door.

"Amira, I know you're on the other side of the door, I shouldn't have said what I did yesterday." Aleksander said as I knew that he knew what it was like to be alone. With my family here and within the distance of me I still felt all alone but hid it. It couldn't change all the years of feeling lonely and different with no choice but to feel like I had to hide. "I want to talk, I know we just did but...that was different." 

I've thrown away my resistance and this connection is just getting stronger. I thought 

I reached for the knob of the door as I opened it seeing him there, as we looked at each other there was just silence now. He stepped closer to me as he put a hand on my cheek and I put a hand over his as we looked at each other. "I want everything you saw in my dream." I said as he looked at me. "Everything your heart wants I will give you, I see now you truly don't have any desire to rule Ravka but if I would obtain the throne you will rule by my side and still have your freedom you desire." Aleksander said 

I smiled knowing he was true to his word and I nod knowing that this was going to be it. I was all in for the wedding while Marie and Nadia were having their doubts about what I said. We ended up going to his room and resting there for the night. I ended up sleeping a bit better than when I woke up I yawned but as I opened my eyes I felt his lips capture mine in a kiss. I kissed him back as he soon pulled away looking at me while he hovered over me. 

"Such a strong Dual Summoner, what if the future holds a Dual Summoner like you?" Aleksander asked as I knew what he was implying. I went to answer his question but then I felt his lips latch onto my neck as I gasped in surprise. "Aleksander.." I said as I had a good idea what he was implying. He looked at me smirking a bit "Tonight, not this morning." He assured me as we kissed once more before he got up and he helped me up.

Once I was up I left to go to my room where I got bathed, saw Genya, and let her do her natural gift as she must have noticed something was up. "Did something happen with the General last night?" Genya asked as I looked at her. "We got into a fight, but we made up this morning." I assured her knowing that now he had a plan to get that little girl. "Genya, have you ever heard of two summoners being able to enter the other's dream?" I asked 

Genya looked at me as if I said something surprising but I knew that there was nothing that could be done about it. We were two sides of the same coin bound by the stag bones and this connection between us that we both still didn't understand. "No, I have not heard of it but has it happened?" Genya asked as I nod before relaxing my eyebrows while letting her do my makeup then opened them. "Yeah, we were in my dream last night together." I shared it with her as she was surprised. "Well then you and the General must be very close." Genya said

I can't tell you just how close we are. I thought 

I still wanted to get Genya away from the Queen but that had a lot of work and the Queen didn't deserve Genya. She was just a whipping girl for the Queen and so far they hadn't known what was the cause of the King's contagion so that was good. When she was done I smiled "thank you Genya, I must return for breakfast." I said as she nodded. Since he was expecting me I walked in and saw the table was already there as I walked over sitting across from him as we were eating. It was quiet much of what we had to say to each other was said this morning but we heard a lot of movement so once we were done walking we were overseeing some kind of training thing being built.

"Botkin is up to something, it is clear the Grisha are to climb this thing to the top." Aleksander said as we saw some of the Grisha already out there. Among them were Marie and Nadia who looked curious but as I watched for a few minutes this thing was going to have moving levels making it hard to climb. "You don't have to do this." Aleksander said to me as I looked at him knowing my cousin was probably checking it out.

I started walking towards the door "I think I will participate, after all I can't let Zoya think she's the best." I said as I looked at him "Keep watching." Then I left without another word as I went out there seeing that people were falling off and landing on the ground with their Kefta. Botkin had outdone himself as I saw gloves were given for this thing and started to put it on as I heard laughing behind me so I looked. "You came out here after all, it would be humiliating for you to lose, right?" Zoya asked as I just smiled. "I don't have to win, just get farther than you as the General's future wife." I said calmly 

Zoya glared at me as I knew she was his favorite before I was out as a Dual Summoner. She was getting to tumble with him before he meant something to me and now she was nothing to him. A distraction while he waited for his equal to surface as Botkin walked over. "Dual Summoner Amira Silina and Zoya Nazyalensky, be fair about this." Botkin said 

Once we were let go on the course, I jumped and grabbed one of the ladders as I climbed up getting to the moving part of the obstacle area then started to climb up. I could feel Aleksander watching me as I started to get to the top. "You don't just give up, do you?" Zoya said on the other side as I watched someone get knocked off by one of these bars that could be pushed in or pulled out as I grabbed one and pushed it in hearing her scream but then kinda gave an annoyed sound as I laughed a bit. "Nope, not gonna give up." I said 

Reaching the top was the goal and though I almost slipped grabbing one in time as I sighed. I reached for another one and pulled it out this time hearing her fall as I smiled. I was having fun with this as I kept going, reaching the top and getting the item on hand as I laughed. Zoya got to the top seeing me with it and she looked annoyed as she put her hands together and used air to knock me off. I didn't have time to react as I figured I would hit hard on the ground but then I felt arms suddenly catch me as I looked to see who caught me seeing Nico.

"Are you ok?" Nico asked with concern in his eyes as I just literally fell but wondered where he had come from to be there in time. Marie and Nadia also came over to check on me as they didn't see any scratches but I suddenly became aware of how dangerous this thing was. "Are you ok?" Marie and Nadia asked as Nico put me on my feet. 

"I'm fine." I assured them as Botkin told Zoya to get down there and then scolded her for knocking me off. Alina cem over to check on me "Are you ok?" Alina asked as I nod knowing that it was a bit dangerous what Zoya did. "Zoya and I have always been in a rivalry ever since General Kirigan and I became engaged." I let Alina know

Alina was shocked to hear about me and Zoya but it was what it was. "When is the wedding?" Alina asked as I saw Zoya looking over, hearing Alina's question and then I looked at her. "Soon, possibly in three days depending on what we do." I said to Alina with a smile as Marie and Nadia looked at me surprised. "I know what I said last night guys but I still love him and he is my soulmate so maybe it's not everything we think." I said to them confusing Alina. "Sorry, we had a talk last night." 

Aleksander came out soon enough as he walked over to me making sure I was unharmed which thanks to Nico I didn't have a single hurt area. "I guess you were right about your friend staying, it seems he is more useful than the first army." Aleksander said as I kept myself from saying I told you so. He looked over at Zoya but I put my hand on his arm as he looked at me again. "Just make her attend the wedding, it's punishment enough to send a message." I said 

I knew that sending her off to reevaluate her values was not going to benefit us in any way. I wanted her there to see me become his wife and make it clear she'd never get to be with him ever again. Aleksander seemed to calm down but I knew he wanted to make her leave again but I could tell he was jealous of Nico still being around. Nico was turning to leave when Aleksander turned to him. "Nico." Aleksander said as Nico was still hesitant but he chose his words wisely. "General Kirigan." Nico said.

The anger coming off of Nico was present, the jealousy of Aleksander was there but he was keeping his composure. "Thank you for being there to save Amira when she was airborne." Aleksander said, "Your going to be apart of her guards from now on and not sent back to first army." Nico seemed to be surprised since a simple thank you for saving me was good but Aleksander went another step up. "She's spoken to me on your behalf to be kept here, that can only be if you have a position here. Amira will be getting a rise in rank as a leader of the Dual Summoners once we are married but she'll still need a guard who will sacrifice everything for her that she trusts. You're a tracker with an extremely good gift that isn't to be overlooked." 

Nico looked at me and I was ecstatic that he was going to be staying and that he would be a part of my protection. "Of course, The Dual Summoner who holds the power of the sun is going to be targeted by most. Might I suggest some heartrenders?" Nico asked as I knew there were not many I knew. "It's all in Amira's preference. She doesn't like my heartrender very much." Aleksander said as I laughed a bit knowing it wasn't a secret that I disliked Ivan. 

Baghra came out as I was glad she was always doing well and walked over to me to see we were doing well. "I see you and the General are still doing well." Baghra said, "We are." I said as she nodded, then looked at Aleksander "So when is the wedding?" Baghra asked as I looked at my friends knowing they wanted to know that too. I gave an idea of when it might be but that was just a guess. "Three days from now, the fabricators are working on things as we speak." Aleksander said 

Everyone was surprised with the announcement, except those I'd talked to about it, Zoya was annoyed with it but I was loving it. Aleksander took my hand kissing the top of it "See you later tonight." Aleksander said before walking off. 

I left the area as Marie and Nadia followed me. "So you know the truth about him and you're still going through with this?" Marie asked as I looked at Marie surprised. She did believe me after all. "Our connection is very strong, he was in my dream last night. After you two walked away we ended up in a fight so I had slept in my room but the dream revealed my inner desires. I want this marriage and I want kids someday." I said as they looked surprised. "We all should be moving up to get our assignments anyway so that's good." I said to them

"We want to be there to support you along this journey." Nadia said as we soon came across Genya. "Well it's good you do, because you both will be needing fitted for the dresses to attend the wedding." Genya told them as they ran off. It hadn't dawned on me till that moment how much had to be prepared and I was nervous. "You are going to be fine Amira, you handle things so well." Genya said

I thought of what Aleksander said in the dream that he sees my true desires and that he wants to give me everything that was there but I knew deep down he wanted me to do his plan. He still wanted me to get close to Prince Nikolai; it wasn't going to go away and I knew that. I also knew that I couldn't be seen in public wearing my wedding ring if I went places with Prince Nikolai and when I would become pregnant I would have to be hidden for a while. 

You say you want to give me everything my heart desires but I know you won't give up the idea that I might just go down your choice. I thought 

I had to rub my arm knowing I could look at him, I could say no to him and he would wait for me to come around. He always knew how to win in his fights and I was going to be his opponent but this was going to be my fight too. Still, I had to work on what was going to happen. As we were walking I wasn't paying attention when I ran into someone. Looking up I saw Prince Nikolai "Moi tsarevich, I wasn't paying attention to where I was going." I said apologizing. 

"No, no. I was looking for you, I was wondering if you'd come with me to the villages again." Prince Nikolai said

I didn't want to get anywhere near him or get him more involved with what was going on but I knew Aleksander wanted to get close with the royals. He had some plans in his mind "Genya give us time to talk." I said as she nodded leaving us where no one was around. "You kissed me in public the last time, I don't know if that is such a good idea." I said. I saw him realize I was holding strong but I was fighting with my decision. I told Aleksander and my desires. "I am sorry for those actions, but this is to let you get to know me. People are going to need you to help them across the fold sometime soon." Prince Nikolai said 

I knew that a lot was going on but I sighed "Fine but Nico has to come with us." I said as he was surprised. Nico was still a dear friend to me and no one was going to change that, so when we walked to the stables the people in the stables noticed me getting Aleksander's horse ready and a horse for the Prince. Nico arrived too so they got one for him too as I took the reins of the horse and got on as we headed out. I could feel Aleksander's staring at me as I looked back, seeing him looking out his window as he nodded. 

don't get any ideas.  I thought 

Nico noticed I looked back before looking forward as I had the horse slow to be behind Prince Nikolai and Nico rode the horse beside me as I just realized he was in different attire. He was given a Kefta with no design on it except my symbol on the area where it was located. "You seem to have a lot on your mind, need to talk about it?" Nico asked as I looked forward. "He wanted me to marry him in secret but marry this prince publicly." I admitted while Prince Nikolai seemed to focus on the destination. "That isn't who you are." Nico said as I didn't know who Amira was anymore.

I am more than the Dual Summoner, I am still a person but I have my human connections. I thought 

When we made it to Keramsan, I realized how far we were as we kept traveling by horse. I got down once we stopped and I looked around knowing this was where I started when I ran. "Feels good, doesn't it?" Prince Nikolai asked as he pointed over to my grandmother's house and I saw my family sitting in there talking. "When did you.." I knew they were in the little palace with me but that was after everything. "I saw they wanted to come back out, your cousin will follow you anywhere you go but this is their home." Prince Nikolai said as he offered his hand to me. "You deserve freedom too once in awhile." 

I hesitated because the more I tasted freedom without Aleksander the more I would question if he was what I wanted. I knew that was not fair to me when I decided but somehow I always ended up this way. "Ravka's throne and freedom to do as you please, what do you think?" Prince Nikolai asked as I looked at him in shock. 

He doesn't give up. I thought 

We started walking to the house "I have a ship that can take you anywhere you want, get as far away from here as possible." Prince Nikolai said as I was shocked and the thought made my heart hurt. "I can't..I can't just leave everyone." I said as we walked till we got to the house and I opened the door walking in. This was never about going anywhere it was getting away from the little palace as we all talked. Prince Nikolai waited outside as I went to everyone as they all looked at me.

"The day has been set, in three days I'm going through with it." I said

Father got up as he looked at me walking over and he placed a hand on my shoulder "No, I shouldn't have agreed to it. You are not marrying him." Father said as I sighed. "I want this, I want to marry him. If things go wrong, I'll manage and as long as I have Marie, Nadia and Nico I can do what I need. He wants to have the sea whip soon so we'll see where that goes." I said 

A lot of talking was done and I didn't care if they agreed or not, my decision was made as I talked with everyone until it was getting dark. I left and I knew they would be there or they would not be but I made my choice as we decided this.  I felt good about things for now as I soon went to his war room as he pulled me to him kissing me. All my doubts and worries evaporated in this kiss as I kissed him back.

"Moye Serdtse, did you have a good day with the sobachka?" Aleksander asked

"He seems still intent to make me Queen if he can." I said as Aleksander looked at me seeing I almost considered it. "He offered you a better deal?" Aleksander asked, "Same deal as before getting to lay with you and rule Ravka but he offered me freedom." I said as he kissed me. "The idea of another man getting to touch you has started to anger me." Aleksander said against my lips

yet it was your idea. I thought 

Taglist: @lifeisingrey

[hiyaluronic]

Unnamed Sentinel/Guide Au (partial draft)

Nile eyed Nicky’s plate with envy, her nose twitching at the pleasant aroma of garlic and the slightly nutty, pungent smell of cumin and turmeric; the spicy aromatics filling the small dining room and causing her stomach to grumble excitedly. She turned from Nicky’s plate to stare down at her own in dismay. The grilled chicken breast, steamed broccoli, and rich buttery baked potato were doing nothing to satiate her cranky stomach.

“Why does Nicky get the good stuff?” She hadn’t meant to sound childish but Joe’s home cooked chicken curry looked a thousand times more appetizing than the standard restaurant-style meal situated on her plate.

Joe grinned and winked at Nicky who in turn rolled his eyes in response, “Because he’s being punished.” 

Nile sighed and poked halfheartedly at her chicken, “Then can I be punished too?”

Andy snorted into her wine glass, pulling the stemmed glass away and clearing her throat against the burn of alcohol. “Trust me, you don’t.”

“If you say so.” Nile murmured and reluctantly cut into her chicken. She took a few bites, her gaze lingering on Nicky’s plate which sat untouched, wondering how exactly homemade food was a punishment. 

“C’mon, Nicolò,” Joe prodded, forgetting his own meal and using his fork to spear a piece of sauce drenched chicken from Nicky’s plate. “I promise it will not be as bad as Baton Rouge.”

Nile perked up, curious. “What happened in Baton Rouge?” 

Andy smiled deviously and leaned over to Nile. “Booker’s attempt at cerole cooking. His Jambalaya is still pending a patent as a lethal weapon. Joe and I ended up with food poisoning, Nicky on the other hand....”

Nicky swallowed, eyeing the innocent piece of poultry dangling from Joe’s fork with trepidation, eyes following the curry sauce as it slowly dripped onto the tablecloth. “I ended up zoning because the idiota, mixed up chile peppers with bhut jolokia.”

Nile scrunched her face. “Bahht Zo-lu-key-ya?” 

“Ghost peppers.” Andy simplified, leaning back into the kitchen chair and crossing her arms, watching Joe shake the chicken enticingly in front of Nicky with mild amusement.

Nile cringed and swallowed, her mouth watering at the imagined heat of said pepper. “Shit.” 

“Indeed.” Nicky replied with a sigh before leaning forward and letting his mouth wrap enticingly around Joe’s fork - the pink of his lips covering the silver of the utensil suggestively - before ever so slowly pulling back, smirking when he noticed Joe’s eyes narrow at his actions. Nicky closed his eyes and let the juices from the chicken settle on his tongue; the sweetness of clove and cinnamon dancing across his tongue and running as a current under the powerful flavor of turmeric, bay leaves, and cumin. He sucked the sauce and juice from the chicken, tilting his head back and moaning in pleasure when the slight underlying warmth of garlic and mustard seed tickled his taste buds.

He mentally smirked when he felt Joe kick his shin under the table, a quiet behave drifting from his husband's lips, the heady scent of musk saturating the air between them and sending a jolt of excitement through Nicky. He could hear Nile coughing awkwardly across the table; a deep bass to the quiet trill of Andy’s accompanying  laughter. Why should he be the only one to be punished? 

He felt the air shift and change before he heard Joe sigh. “Come on, Nico. You know how this goes, what’s the secret ingredient?”

Nicky frowned at the question and chewed the chicken, unsure. He could taste something off. Taste something out of place underneath the normal spices, something sharp and bitter  - almost medicinal.

“I’m assuming it’s not love?” Nile said to Andy, who snickered.

Nicky swallowed and blinked open his eyes, turning to Joe, “Clove, cinnamon, turmeric, bay leaf, cumin. Just a hint of garlic and mustard... and...”

Joe ticked off the ingredients with his finger, “And…?”

Nicky licked his lips and tried to focus on the odd taste, he knew it, he just couldn’t place the where and what, and most notably the name. He hated having to sort through Joe’s cooking because there were so many different flavors in the world and it was sometimes very hard to distinguish between herbs and spices; and, while he loved his husband, Joe liked to make it as hard as possible. The reasoning? Because it eased his husband's mind knowing that he could detect even the subtlest of flavors - which he would agree. Being able to detect the minute differences in flavors between herbs and poisons had saved them many unneeded deaths over the various decades.

But, still…

“It tastes like soap.”

“Seriously, Joe!” Nile admonished, eyes wide in concern. “You put soap in his food?”

“It’s not soap!” Joe was quick to reply, just a little offended at the accusation. “I would never do such a thing!”

“Uggh.” Nicky shivered in disgust when it finally clicked what the offending flavor was, “Cilantro!”

“Very good, Nico!” Joe leaned forward and kissed his husband happily. “And now what sense shall we work on next, hmmm?”

Nicky laughed softly with a shake of his head, “Joe, it was only one zone with a great many number of years between my last one. I promise I do not need-”

“It is not about what you need, you have become lax in these last few decades, hayati, you’re starting to rely too heavily on the technology of today. And it worries me.” Joe explained, running a hand through his beard and scratching at the skin underneath. “You were very lucky that Nile had been there to keep an eye on you until Andy and I arrived but what would have happened if Nile had been indisposed of? You would have been left vulnerable and that’s just not acceptable.”

“Cuore Mio.” Nicky murmured, his hand reaching over to grasp Joe’s tightly in his absently running his thumb over Joe’s knuckles.. He didn’t need heightened senses to know that his love was feeling anxious but the sulfuric reek permeating the air around Joe just confirmed it. 

Andy nodded, seeming to agree with the idea. “Joe’s right, Nicky. We have to be able to trust that on a mission you won’t conk out on us. A refresher might do some good and it’ll help Nile know what to do when Joe is unavailable to pull you back.”

Nile held her hand up and cleared her throat, drawing the attention of the small group. “Speaking of. I was promised an explanation?”

“That you were, Nile.” Nicky agreed, squeezing Joe’s hand with a gentle smile. “There is sadly not much to tell.”

“Oh, hell no. You don’t get to reveal Nicky is a superhero-” Not a superhero, Nile “and then not tell me how that happened.”

Joe and Nicky shared a look, Joe raised his shoulder slightly in question to which Nicky tilted his head, his gaze flicking towards Nile before returning to Joe with a small nod.

Joe sighed and pulled his hand free from Nicky’s, settling back against his chair, and focusing his sight on the darkened splotches of curry staining the tablecloth. “It was many, many months after we had grown tired of constant death and had laid down our arms against one another. At the time we thought our situation was part of our immortality, it wasn’t until we met Andromache and Quynh that we understood otherwise.” 

Nicky smiled fondly, remembering the circumstances that had surrounded their meeting of their sisters in arms. It had been a sweltering summer, the air so thick that even the simple act of breathing would leave a person exhausted and uncomfortably drenched. Time had worn away at a lot of his memories but the vibrant scent of the briny waters lapping at the sands along the coast, the salty air pushed inland by the balmy waves of the Mediterannean that ate away at wood and stone alike and the overbearing smell of seagrasses that would drift upward when low tide would hit and carrying the faint tinge of dead sea life along with it were still vivid in his memory.

But what he remembered the most about that first meeting - what still haunted him and fueled his nightmares almost a millennium later - was the utter terror of not being able to hear Joe’s heartbeat between one moment and the next. His breath still faltered when he thought back to the utter panic that had grabbed hold and burrowed deep into his chest at the mere thought of losing the one person who could make him feel human.

“Andromache and Quynh absconded with Joe before we had the chance to be formally introduced.”

Nile balked at Nicky’s words but at the minute twitch to the corners of his mouth and the way she noticed his eyes darken just a tad, not quite in anger but in an almost accusatory way, had her turning to Andy flabbergasted, “You what!?

“In all fairness,” Andy started, her hands raised in supplication, “it was just to test a theory. We’d trailed the two of them for days, trying to get a read on what kind of buffoons they were outside of the dreams.”

“We were not buffoons.” Joe huffed, affronted, eyes ticking to Nicky looking for agreement.

Andy quirked an eyebrow, “You literally killed each other dozens of times over the span of 6 months. Quynh and I had even started making bets on it. So, hence, bah-foons.”

“We were-” Joe trailed off, looking to Nicky for the right way to answer without confirming Andy’s rather accurate description.

Nicky turned from Joe’s gaze to Andy’s with a frown, “-working through some things.” 

“Sure, language barrier, sectarianism, genocide…” Andy said, ticking each item off with the raise of one of her fingers.

“Getting off topic here, guys. I’m assuming there’s more to the story then Andy and Quynh running off with Joe in tow?” 

With a sigh, Andy looked towards Nile. “There were… are stories. Legends really, about persons with the capability to  perceive the world around them on a level unseen by us mere humans.”

“Sounds amazing.” Nile said.

“One would think until you realize nothing can be such without its own hindrances.” Nicky explained with a wince, “What Andy and Quynh were testing was to see if Joe and I had bonded as guide and sentinel.”

“Bonded?”

“A sentinel’s abilities are latent, most that have this ability will never know because a sentinel is born through harsh conditions and need.” Andy explained at Nile’s question. “But if there is no guide, no way for a sentinel to maintain a baseline, the world becomes an enemy to them and they either zone or turn feral.”

“Feral? Like...turn rabid?” 

Nicky nodded at Nile, “An abhorred definition but yes. We have only ever seen a feral sentinel once and it ended with him falling to my blade.” 

“Okay.” Nile pursed her lips trying to gather her thoughts, “Okay so Andy and Quynh took Joe to make sure you were bonded and not feral?”

“You have to understand Nile, we saw them kill each other for months. With so much senseless violence Quynh and I had to make sure that the world hadn’t bred a broken and untamed immortal.”

[shade-romeo]

Part 2/2! I'm feeling very motivated and I wanna write this before that goes away.

@potereregina part 2! :D!!

The sun was almost set as the three arrived at the clearing. Roman had dressed up a bit, having put on a button up shirt paired with some nice pants. He had complained about not having anything nicer, but that was short lived once they got going.

Logan had also put on something nice, though it was more casual then normal. He had put on a long sleeved shirt, paired with a thin jacket, and jeans.

Despite the two of them having two vastly different outfits, Virgil thought they both looked wonderful. And they had both assured him, more than once, that his black sweatshirt and ripped jeans looked great. He didn't exactly believe them, but he didn't really have anything else to wear.

But yes.. It was true, that Virgil had grown.. attached to his roommates as of late, but there was no way he would ever say so. They were already dating! Telling someone who's already in a relationship that you like them is basically asking for rejection.

Anyway, yeah. That was his situation, and he was fine with pining for the rest of his existence. He was fine.

Once they stepped through the thick tree branch archway, Virgil gasped. "Oh my god.."

The clearing was huge, half of it being taken up by a lake, though there was still definitely enough room on land for a huge amount of people. And the whole thing was lit up by a ton of fairies, all flying around and chattering in their little bell-like voices. And there were so many creatures! Werewolves and Vampires hanging out and chatting, Mermaids swimming in the lake with Sirens, Nagas and Avians walking around with a smile. It was..

"Awesome.." Virgil spoke breathlessly.

Roman snickered, "Now, now, don't go all starstruck on us cryptid hunter." He teased with a nudge.

Virgil shook himself out of his amazement and looked over at Roman, "Sorry, I just.. I've never seen this many creatures all at once before, or.. at all.."

Logan smiled, "Well, we should bring you here more often then. The clearing is almost always this bustling, especially at night though."

Roman nodded, "Mhm! Except on the full moon or things like that, this place is pretty sacred so, in the werewolves case at least, they stay away when the full moon comes near."

Virgil rose an eyebrow, "How do you know that?"

Roman was about to answer, when a really tall werewolf bounded over with a huge smile.

"Logan! Roman! Human I don't know! Hi! It's awesome to see you!!" They picked Roman up easily, squeezing him tight enough for him to groan.

"Pat.. I need to breathe." He mumbled.

"Right! Sorry!" Pat (?) quickly sat Roman back down, and went over to Logan, picking him up off the ground as well, though not as high as Roman, considering Logan was much taller than the familiar.

Once they were done hugging Logan they ran towards Virgil, who panicked and put out his arms, "No! Uh- sorry- just.. could I get your name first..?"

Pat blinked, "Oh! I'm sorry! My name is Patton, He/Him Pronouns. I'm a werewolf, obviously. What's your name?"

"Virgil, he/him too. Uh.. I'm human, though you noticed that earlier.. nice to meet you." He held out a hand, silently saying 'Look, you seem nice but please don't hug me..'

Patton seemed to understand, as he grabbed Virgil's hand and shook it enthusiastically. "It's nice to meet you too! Oh! Roman, Remus is over by the lake, he said to send you over if I saw you come in."

Roman nodded and bid his goodbyes to Logan and Virgil, Patton doing the same before they were heading over to the lake.

Virgil turned to Logan to find him smiling at him, and maybe that made him flush a bit.

"So, I'll show you around, and introduce you to some people." Logan smiled, holding out his hand.

Virgil flushed even worse and nodded with a nervous smile, taking his hand and letting him lead him further into the clearing.

The rest of the night went amazingly. Logan did indead show him around the entire clearing, and introduced him to a few creatures he was close with. A vampire named Remy, an avian named Emile, a merman named Thomas, and a siren called Nico. They also passed Roman and Remus, who were hanging out with a shape-shifter named Janus. And Logan did indeed clarify that Janus was the one who helped with his potion.

They were all incredibly nice, aside from Remy, but Logan informed him that was just the way they were.

Virgil sat on the ground next to the lake, Emile sitting next to him as Thomas waded in the water, the three of them having a pleasant conversation with Logan standing behind Virgil, watching fondly. Then suddenly, a witch was calling out to everyone from the edge of the clearing.

"Okay everyone! It's officially midnight! You all know what that means!" Virgil couldn't help but feel a pang of fear, despite himself, "Dancing time!!" Virgil immediately felt a bit silly for being frightened, especially as many of the creatures rushed to the "dance floor" as a large group of fairies flew over said dance floor, and started playing music. Pop music actually. How they did that Virgil had no idea, but he didn't really care much either.

Logan sighed with a smile, and held up three fingers, Emile snickered as Thomas shook his head with a smile.

Virgil rose an eyebrow at them as Logan counted down silently. Once he got to one, Roman was right at Logan's side, grabbing his arm and shaking him, practically begging him to come dance with him.

Oh.. wow they know each other really well.. his heart hurt a bit at that realization, but he ignored it as Logan turned to him once again.

"Will you be okay here by yourself?" He asked.

"He won't be by himself!" Thomas interjected, "Emile and I are right here."

"I appreciate your correct grammar Thomas." Logan smiled.

Roman groaned, pulling on Logan. "Come ooooon!! Virgil's fine with Emile and Thomas! Right?"

Virgil nodded.

"Yeah! So come on!! Just one dance pleeeeeaaaaaassssseeee!!" And then Roman was using his pleading eyes, and even though they were directed at Logan, Virgil couldn't help the way his heart melted.

Logan finally gave in, going over to the dance floor with Roman after a quick goodbye.

Emile and Thomas continued talking, but Virgil didn't, he was preoccupied with something else.

He stared intently as Logan and Roman made it to the dance floor, immediately latching onto each other and dancing to the beat, never separating for very long. It was.. mesmerizing, to say the least. He didn't look away, he couldn't, they were.. they were too stunning to not look at. And then he suddenly realized just how much he cared for both of them, no.. he realized just how much he loved them. Oh god.. he's in love with two people who are already in a relationship.. he's so fucked.

He was so absorbed in his own thoughts, that he didn't realize Thomas was trying to get his attention, at least not until there was water being flicked into his face.

He flinched and turned to the other two, seeing them both with sympathetic faces.

"So.. you've got it bad then?" Emile asked, and Virgil hesitated, glancing back over to the couple before looking down, nodding solemnly.

"I get that. Not to the extent you're feeling right now, but I get the pining." Thomas offered, "I'm in pretty deep for someone in particular as well."

Virgil nodded, "It sucks.. especially when you know you can't have them.." he wasn't sure why he was opening up like this, maybe it was because of how open these two seemed? How sympathetic they were? He doesn't know.. but it doesn't matter much anyway.

Thomas nodded, sighing a bit. "Yeah.." he glanced over to the other side of the lake, directly at Nico, Virgil noted, before back to Virgil and Emile.

Emile hummed, "You should tell them. You too Thomas, but we'll talk about that in a minute."

Virgil blinked, "Are you serious? I can't tell them! They're dating! They'd hate me!"

"They won't hate you. They care for you a lot, I can tell. If anything they're going to let you down gently." Emile spoke softly, placing a hand on Virgil's knee. "Don't you want to get it off your chest, put it out in the open and.. take a chance?"

Virgil was silent for a while, contemplating Emile's words. Apparently he took too long, because before he could respond he was being tugged at by an excited Roman, and he realized the song was now over.

"Hi. Come on Vi! Your turn!" He grinned, as Logan sat down on the grass next to Emile.

Virgil flushed and sputtered for a moment as he stood up, stumbling a bit as Roman continued to pull.

"Wh.. Me?!"

"Yes!! You!! Now come oooonnn!!" He whined and pulled.

But.. but Logan and Roman had been dancing so intimately during the last song! W..would Roman want to dance with him the same way?! No, no way, he probably just didn't wanna be alone up there.. yeah..

And after convincing himself of that, he agreed, letting Roman drag him off.

They made it to the dance floor, which wasn't actually as crowded as it looked. But before he could take in his surroundings, Roman was grabbing both his hands and putting them on his waist, wrapping his own around Virgil's shoulders.

Virgil was surely bright red, and if his eyesight was to be believed, so was Roman. The familiar grinned and started leading the dance, Virgil following along like a lost and incredibly flustered puppy. Though eventually, he got into the flow of things, moving in sync with Roman, comepletely engulfed in the song and dance, so muxh so that he didn't bat an eye when Roman seemed to push himself closer.

Once the song was over though, he realized that was.. really fucking intimate, and Oh God. Roman though, was giggling and bouncing in place, gushing about how much fun that was and how good of a dancet Virgil was. And wow he's so far gone for this cutie.

A few minutes later, Logan finds them, a soft smile on his face.

"You two had fun?"

Roman grinned, "Of course! That was great!"

Virgil couldn't help but smile giddily as well, "I.. yeah. That was.. great."

Logan nodded, "Good to hear, we should probably head home now though."

Roman pouted but nodded, taking Logan's hand, and squeezing Virgil's, before walking with Logan out of the clearing.

As they walked through the forest, Virgil spoke up, shaky and vulnerable.

"What.. was that? I mean, why did you dance with me like that? I mean.. I.. I liked it, it was uhm.. fun, but.. I just.. uh.."

Roman pursed his lips, "Well.. okay. I know we had a rocky start." Understatement of the century, "But.. I've grown to like you. A lot."

..wait.

"As have I. Even while our relationship wasn't strained before, I have taken a certain.. liking to you." Logan spoke, as Virgil noticed both of their faces flushing under the moonlight.

..what.

The two of them shared a look, before Logan nodded and Roman turned back to Virgil. "So, we've been talking.. and.. we wanted to ask you to join our relationship? Like, a polyamorous relationship, where all three of us are dating each other."

..oh my god.

Logan nodded, "Yes, we didn't know the right time to ask you, so we.. haven't, and Roman suggested that he could dance with you tonight and explain while you were on the dance floor."

..no fucking way.

"I chickened out though.. so I'm glad you asked about it." Roman smiled sheepishly, before taking in Virgil's blank expression.

"..Virgil? Are you okay?"

Virgil seemed to let out a large breath, a small smile forming on his face. "You couldn't have picked a better night to ask me this."

Both of them were confused, and so Virgil started explaining, his brain not comepletely catching up with everything he was saying.

"I've been in love with you guys for.. a while now, I just never realized what it was until I saw the two of you dancing before, and I was just.. mesmerized, because you two are stunning separately, but together you're so, so perfect, and I couldn't look away until I was forced to and-" he stopped, his brain finally catching up, "And uh.. I'd love to date you guys, is what I'm saying."

And then Roman was beaming, immediately hugging Virgil tight and celebrating as he did so. And Logan.. Logan was looking at him, with that soft fond look he always gave to Roman, and.. and he couldn't ask for anything more.

(Reblogs > Likes)

[buoyantsaturn]

waiting with you bonus scene #1

read waiting with you

takes place sometime between the engagement party and the cake tasting

A new text in the group chat had Nico up too early on a weekend and all the way across town when he should’ve been working on his thesis paper. He should’ve known that being Jason’s best man would mean that wedding planning would eat up all of his free time, but he hadn’t thought it would happen so soon. The wedding was, like, nine months away, so why would they be in a flower shop picking out arrangements so soon?

It wasn’t that Nico minded hanging out with his best friend - quite the opposite, actually. He was a little worried about hanging out with Jason’s fiance's best friend.

Nico had met Will at the engagement party a little over two weeks ago, and after sharing a kiss on the sidewalk and deciding that neither of them were ready to jump into a relationship, the two had parted ways at the end of the night. They had both been moderately active in the wedding planning group chat, but aside from that, Nico hadn’t had any contact with Will. It was for the best, probably. 

Will had had Nico’s heart racing within minutes of meeting him. Nico didn’t need to risk any cardiac episodes brought on by simply being in the same room as him. 

When Nico entered the flower shop that morning, he breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that Jason and Piper were the only customers inside. They were refreshing the memory of the theme they’d picked out - something with a lot of deep blues and greens that Nico thought would have been more fitting for Percy’s wedding than Piper’s - and set off around the shop in search of pre-made arrangements or color combinations that would suit their theme.

Nico had been biting his tongue to refrain from asking if Will was supposed to be there, and yet when the blond finally walked through the door, Nico almost ducked behind a display. Instead, Nico stared dumbly toward the door until Will spotted him and grinned, and Nico finally ducked his head.

“Hey, sorry I’m late,” Will said. “I got a little lost, but I made it! So, catch me up?” 

Nico nodded toward the opposite side of the shop where Jason and Piper appeared to be arguing about red roses or pink, even though neither really meshed with their theme. “Piper has the planning binder with all the theme ideas. You should probably ask her.” 

“I remember the theme,” Will told him, his eyes scanning the display in front of him to at least make it look like he was doing what he was supposed to. “Forest-y greens and ocean-y blues, right?” He lifted his gaze when Piper raised her voice, and winced. “So, why are they arguing over pink?”

Nico shrugged. “I’m doing my best to ignore them. I have a paper to write, so I’m kind of trying to get out of here.” 

“You know, I’m sure they would’ve let you skip this if you really needed to,” Will said. Nico watched as he leaned toward a small bouquet of yellows and oranges and sniffed the flowers. He looked away before Will could catch him staring. “They would understand.” 

“I know, but…” Nico huffed. “He’s my best friend. I can wake up a little early to help him pick out some flowers this one time if I have to.”

Will nodded. “Well, then let’s make this quick so you can head home. What are we looking for? Individual flowers or bouquets?” 

“Piper said arrangements,” Nico answered. “I’m not really sure if that means bouquets or something else.” 

Will hummed and came to stand directly next to Nico, almost cornering him between the displays. “Isn’t an arrangement just, like, a big bouquet?” 

Nico felt himself tense and tried to step away, but ended up further back in the corner. “Will,” he said, trying to keep the pain out of his voice.

Will hummed again, lifting his eyes to meet Nico’s.

“Don’t you think we should...look in different places?” Nico asked, almost pleadingly.

Finally, Will seemed to notice how close he was standing, and took a few steps away. “Sorry, is this better?” 

“I kinda meant more like…” Nico looked out at the mostly empty store, with he and Will packed into one corner and Piper and Jason tucked away in another.

Will tried for a smile, but even Nico could see the tension behind it, and he realized that Will had to have been feeling the same kind of awkwardness that Nico felt. Only, while Nico tried to run and hide from it, Will apparently wanted to fight through it. “I just thought this would be more fun with some company. Might make the time go by faster?” 

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Nico said, and suppressed a wince at the sound of his own words. 

Will shrugged, suddenly looking very interested in a cluster of tulips. “I was just hoping that we could maybe be friends.”

Nico sighed, wrapping his arms around his stomach protectively. “Will…” 

“Look, Nico--” Will took half a step closer, then caught himself in the motion and held back. “I like you. I think I’ve made that pretty clear. And I know we agreed that we weren’t going to get romantically involved, but can’t we still be friends? I mean, we’re gonna be spending a lot of time together. Don’t you think that agreeing to be friends would just make this all easier?” 

Nico wanted to shout at him, you think it’s easy for me to see your face and not want to kiss you? but he held himself back. He tried to think of some way to let Will down easy, but anything he thought of saying just made him hurt more than he already did. So finally, he said, “Alright, fine. But can you at least try to keep your distance? Please?” 

Will nodded, and even moved into the next aisle over, smiling at Nico over the top of the shelves. He kept quiet as he started looking through the new arrangements, but after a few moments, Will asked, “So, do you have a favorite flower?” 

Nico felt another complaint build up inside of himself, but what came out instead was another, “Will--” 

“What?” Will asked innocently. “Friends know stuff about each other! Personally, I like sunflowers, because I think it’s cool that they can grow taller than me.” He paused, a hopeful look in his eyes and said, “So?” 

Nico took a deep breath and scanned his eyes across the display in front of him, finally settling on one bouquet and lifting it up for Will to see. “I like this one.” He pointed to a dark bluish-purple flower with curled petals each larger than his hand. 

Will grinned. “What is it?” 

“I don’t know, I just think it looks cool.” 

Will’s eyes softened, and Nico felt his heart jump in his chest. He had to look away before he did something stupid.