#i didn't like this chapter but fuck it

[savage-rhi]

Immortal Shield Chapter 31: Insomnia II

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Tagging: @seradyn​

“Cae!” Caelan turned around, and she locked her gaze with Cindy, the head mechanic and owner of Hammerhead. Caelan’s pulse rose, knowing that Ardyn’s magic had worn off between the two of them. Besides for her own safety, Caelan hoped against hope Ardyn hadn't been spotted. Nevertheless, the cat was out of the bag and Caelan didn’t want to come off suspicious. She couldn't afford to with crownsguard lurking about the crowd. She waved at Cindy, offering a friendly smile and made her way over to a table at the bar end where Cindy was kicking back.

“Hey, uh, sorry I didn’t notice you! Lot of noise in the background.” Caelan laughed, trying to play off her nervousness. She was thankful when Cindy giggled and waved her off. So far, so good keeping up appearances.

“Don’t fret! It packed in here like a fresh can of sardines. You’re never in the city! Most hunters never are nowadays! What are ya’ll doing in Insomnia?”

“I have some business to attend to.”

“Another client?”

“You guessed it!” Caelan laughed. “You here to watch Vote Abandon?”

“Yes siree!” Cindy nodded. She thanked the bartender after the man brought over a drink she had been patiently waiting for. “My boyfriend dragged me here to The Solstice. He’d been planning this for weeks. He should be coming back from the bathroom soon.”

“The one you told me about before, the crownsguard guy?”  This can't get any worse...Caelan thought to herself. Her eyes quickly glanced when Cindy wasn't paying attention, trying to hone in on Ardyn in the club but he was nowhere to be found.

“Yep! The very same!”

“I don’t want to interrupt your date night--”

“Nonsense! I’d like ya’ll to meet! He’s very friendly, I assure ya!” Cindy exclaimed. Her eyes lit up like a pair of fireworks when she looked behind Caelan, waving towards her partner.

“Prompto! Over here darlin’!”

Caelan turned around, following the direction of Cindy’s gaze. She couldn’t make out the man too much given the lighting, but as Prompto got closer, Caelan glanced over his warm and welcoming features while he grinned and waved back. Caelan noted he had a bright smile, giving him a child like demeanor. His blonde hair was done up nicely, spiked through and he had the makings of a beard and goatee. Caelan deduced he probably shaved and was trying to grow it back out. His casual attire accentuated the muscles in his arms, and also made him look like a punk rocker. Prompto definitely screamed Cindy’s type from what Caelan and her gossiped about in between car repairs. Caelan couldn’t help but smirk at the memory. She averted her gaze when Prompto walked past her and pulled Cindy in for a kiss, feeling she was intruding on their privacy.

“Sorry it took a while! There was a line at the door.” Prompto smiled to Cindy then did a double take when he noticed Caelan. He offered a friendly wave, his face blushing. “Oh, hi! Didn’t see you there! Um, are you a friend of Cindy's?”

“Darlin’ this is one of my clients. She’s a hunter. Names Cae!” Cindy answered, trying to suppress a smirk upon noticing Caelan’s mild embarrassment.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you! I’m Prompto.” He held out his hand. Caelan smiled and shook it. I got this, I got this...she repeated to herself.

“Cae, like Cindy said, and its nice to put a face to a name. Cindy’s told me about you when I’ve passed through Hammerhead.” Caelan grinned, giving a teasing glance towards Cindy.

“That so? I didn't realize I was that popular!” Prompto chuckled. He smirked while he looked to his girlfriend. His face lit up seeing Cindy attempting to wave off her bashfulness. He was definitely going to hold that over her heard later tonight, playfully of course.

“Cae owns a Scepter. One of them older cars I was tellin’ ya’ll about.” Cindy chirped, watching Prompto’s eyes widen in excitement.

“Oh man, no way! Those vehicles are hard to come by now! Man, you got incredibly lucky!” Prompto exclaimed, letting out a laugh. He put his arm around Cindy’s waist, then focused on Caelan.

“I like stick shifts. It gives me an excuse for driving over the speed limit.” Caelan teased.

The three of them laughed at Caelan’s remark.

“Cause you’re a friend of Cindy’s, don’t worry, I won’t pull you over.” Prompto joked.

“Aw you stop that!” Cindy gushed.

Caelan observed the two pull each other in for a quick round of kisses. She had to hand it to them, they were an adorable couple. Had circumstances been different, Caelan would've had more fun interacting with Prompto and Cindy both. She felt a slight pain in her chest. Her eyes carded once more through the sea of people dancing and celebrating. There was still no trace of Ardyn. Caelan was beginning to wonder if he ran into trouble.

“So you have business here in Insomnia?” Prompto asked, snapping Caelan out of her thoughts.

“Sorry?”

“Cindy just told me you were here on business.” Prompto smiled. He whistled towards the bartender, and gestured for three drinks. “One for me and the ladies!”

“That’s kind of you but--”

“Hey, my treat! It's no biggie!” Prompto winked.

This man was the human embodiment of a golden retriever: happy, excited, and eager to please. Caelan was amused by his friendly spirit. For a crownsguard, Prompto knew how to act natural amongst civilians, something that was difficult for most after undergoing the trials. Caelan counted Prompto's blessings he was never assigned to Julian’s Einherjar unit. Poor guy would’ve lost his heart for sure...she thought to herself.

“Hey Prompt,” Cindy tapped his shoulder, then gestured to the vibrating noise coming from his left pocket. “That might be Noct.”

“You’re right,” Prompto furrowed his brows, pulling out his cell and checking the screen. He glanced between Cindy and Caelan, and gave an apologetic grin. “Excuse me, I need to take this.”

“No worries!” Caelan reassured him. She watched Prompto walk towards one of the more secluded areas of the club, nearby dining tables where folks could rest from dancing and grab a bite. Noct…the name repeated in her head. No, this couldn’t be the same man she and Ardyn were seeking an audience with.

“Poor thing’s been worried about the king.” Cindy sighed, capturing Caelan’s attention.

“He’s close with his majesty?” Caelan asked, raising a brow.

“Oh, they’re the best of friends!” Cindy laughed. “They grew up together. I guess I neglected to tell ya, Prompto is one of the kings retainers!”

The irony of the situation didn’t leave Caelan as she processed what Cindy told her. Ardyn and she had been looking for leads, anything to know the condition of Noctis and what was really going on. It seemed that fate was willing to give them an open hand, or better yet, a favor for their endeavors. Caelan didn’t expect this to transpire though on a date night with Ardyn. It took much effort to suppress the nervous laugh that wanted to escape her mouth at the realization.

“Sorry again, ladies.” Prompto cleared his throat, arriving back to them minutes later.

“Everything okay, doll?” Cindy furrowed her brows, her head canted curiously upon seeing some of the spark drain from Prompto’s features.

“No, not really.”

“Do we need to cancel our date? If we have to, that’s alright!”

“Oh no!” Prompto laughed, waving off the concern. “No, it’s not that drastic.”

“I hate to stick my nose in your business, but is the king alright?” Caelan asked. She felt her pulse stammer, knowing it was risky to ask something so bold, considering they just met. She had to try though. If she could secure information that could help Ardyn, and better yet, keep Ardyn from dying while trying to save Noctis, it was worth the discomfort.

Prompto made a face, glancing to Cindy. His features seemed to be asking for permission.

“You look like you need to vent a little hon. Cae’s a good person. Not like she’s gonna alert the media. Hunter folk keep to themselves.” Cindy chuckled. Her eyes closed as she went into a slight giggle fit upon Prompto kissing her cheek.

“Well,” Prompto sighed, pulling away from Cindy. His eyes focused on Caelan. “I’m sure you’ve heard the news, he’s taken a leave of absence.”

“Yeah, I heard a few weeks ago when I was traveling up Cape Caem.” Caelan made a face. “He’s not doing so hot, is he?”

“Yeah, he's not.” Prompto morosely admitted. He murmured a thanks to the bartender when their drinks arrived. Prompto handed Caelan hers, Cindy’s second, and made sure he was last. Out of courtesy, they all toasted together before downing their beverages. No one spoke up until each glass was empty. Cindy began to sip on the order she made before Prompto pitched in. 

“It started a few months ago,” Prompto began after finishing his drink and set the glass aside on the bar counter. “He complained about having a terrible cough and chest pain. We all thought Noct was coming down with the flu. The best medics in the city couldn't figure it out. By all accounts, the king is as healthy as a horse. Shortly after, the queen began having visions.”

“I thought the Oracle could no longer have visions since the Astrals left.” Caelan was visibly confused. She glanced between Cindy and Prompto, watching them nod in agreement to her statement.

“Yeah, that’s the odd thing.” Cindy piped up. “Luna shouldn’t be able to commune with them, but she has. Prompt's told me the Gods haven't been straightforward either. Luna, bless her heart, hasn't been able to make heads or tails of anything.”

“And Noct hasn’t been himself. He’s---been more aggressive as of late. That's why he took a leave before the summit. Tensions are already high with the countries. He didn't want to slip up because he's not good.” Prompto said sadly. “The pain is getting worse. I was just informed he’s on bed rest. This isn't like him at all."

Caelan was speechless. It seemed both her and Ardyn's intuition regarding Noctis was right on the money. There was something incredibly wrong with him, and Ardyn may be the key to ensuring Noctis comes out of whatever this is. There was also the possibility too that Ardyn could be Noctis's demise. Either outcome was equally terrifying to her.

“I’m sorry gals,” Prompto let out a laugh, breaking the tension while he rubbed the back of his head. “This was supposed to be a fun night and here I am being a Debbie downer!”

“Oh honey, it’s all good! We know you have a heart and care about your friend.” Cindy reassured him. Rubbing his shoulders for a moment.

“Anyway,” Prompto chuckled, trying not to let his girlfriend’s sweetness get him too riled up. “So Cae, did you show up to the concert with anybody?”

Caelan felt her heart stop.

“I--”

“I bet you she showed up with that rugged fella.”

“Ooo, what rugged fella?” Prompto teased.

“How did you know?” Caelan said aloud, not meaning to as Cindy grinned. The mechanic looked as if she was going to giggle with excitement.

“Aw shucks I knew it! Pete from the shop told me when ya’ll last picked up the Scepter! Said you was with a tall guy, rough around the edges, but he was a gentleman. I saw he picked up your whole tab, must be sweet on ya!”

“Damn, the whole thing?” Prompto exclaimed. “Scepter repairs are expensive as hell!”

“Sure are, but Cae’s fella took care of it.” Cindy playfully jabbed.

Caelan felt like she was going to throw up. She was thankful the current lighting was dark enough to where neither Prompto or Cindy could tell her blood was close to bursting out the seams of her face.

“Speaking of which,” Caelan let out a nervous laugh, preparing to excuse herself. “I should go find him. We were supposed to meet up a while ago. I lost track of time. Prompto, it was awesome meeting you. Thank you for the drink! I hope things go well with the king, and Cindy, I love you, but I hope we don’t see each other anytime soon. I don’t need my car getting anymore beaten up.”

Cindy laughed hard. “That’s reasonable!”

“Hey, it was fun while it lasted!” Prompto grinned. He stood up from the table and gestured. “Oh! Maybe you’d be open to having a double date night? Cindy and I could use more company! We'd love to meet your partner too!”

“I’ll have to see about--”

“Cahl!” Ardyn approached from Caelan’s side, gently grabbing a hold of her shoulder and turning her to face him. “I apologize I took so long, but we need to--”

“Wow, gotta hand it to you Cae, he’s handsome!” Cindy’s voice broke through, causing Ardyn and Caelan to both turn towards her.

“I uh--” Ardyn stammered, and then he went pale as a ghost.

Caelan glanced between Ardyn and Prompto. Both the men looked petrified. She watched as either of their eyes widened in surprise. There was definitely a recognition occurring between the two, and Caelan was beginning to doubt it was of a friendly nature. She could see Ardyn appeared like he was going to drop dead on the spot, and poor Prompto looked like he was seeing the past come back to haunt him.

Prompto’s mouth slightly hung open, prepared to say something until Ardyn quickly grabbed a hold of Caelan’s hand and took off.

“Sorry! Gotta go!” Caelan hollered to the couple, keeping her gaze fixed ahead while Ardyn led them both through the crowds of people.

“Wait!” Prompto shouted, giving chase.

Caelan kept her gaze forward, focusing on Ardyn while her legs sprinted to full speed alongside him. She had a million questions she wanted to ask Ardyn, in particular about what triggered him regarding Prompto. However, she was more preoccupied with her breathing. The speed at which they traveled was very quick. Her body didn't have time to fully integrate in the sudden change of pace, and all the while she could hear Prompto gaining speed.

“Cae! Stop! I need to talk to you!”

“Ardyn--!” Caelan’s breath hitched as they turned a corner. Ardyn quickly stopped and grabbed a hold of Caelan from the front. His arms wrapped around her protectively while he focused all of his efforts to teleport away.

“Close your eyes,” Ardyn commanded, and he shifted into a dark smoke with Caelan in tow. They faded right before Prompto could run into them.

The world shifted and split, Caelan could feel her stomach turning in knots, legs becoming numb just as arms became limp. The only solid ground she had to keep her tethered was Ardyn and his body. She opened her eyes upon hearing his soft murmurs coax her out of it.

“Are you alright, dear?” Ardyn sighed out of relief, cusping either side of Caelan’s face in his hands while she nodded against him. Her right hand reached up to settle on the scruff of his chin. She started to laugh.

“What’s so humorous?” Ardyn was visibly confused as he let her go.

“I don’t know,” Caelan said in between bouts. “You ever get so scared you just---get the giggles?”

“I’m afraid not,” Ardyn mused. He too started to laugh. “Though I suppose you’re contagious enough for me to feel where you’re coming from.”

“Sorry,” Caelan paused, taking in a breath before she laughed again. “I wasn’t expecting to get chased down by a friends cop boyfriend.”

"Makes two of us," Ardyn gestured with his fingers for emphasis. "My cover was blown. The two guard we saw from before witnessed me transform. I led them away to protect you, spun them on a wild goose chase outside the club."

"Boy," Caelan's laughter picked up. "All that trouble to keep the crownsguard away from me, and lo and behold, I'm kicking back and having drinks with one! You must've--pissed yourself seeing that."

"A crude description, but nevertheless, accurate on all counts."

They both laughed for a time, allowing their bodies settle from the adrenaline rush of being pursued. Once the air of silence hung between them long enough, Caelan followed Ardyn to the edge of the balcony. He had spirited them to the top of the Caelum Via. There weren’t many people present, save for some private dinner parties. A few other couples walked around the perimeter, enjoying the cityscape at night.

Caelan and Ardyn were at the far most side of the Via, overlooking Insomnia. The large aquarium the Via bolstered was at the opposite end of the building, appearing small from a distance. They began to walk around, arm in arm. Glancing between each other and taking in the scenery below them.

“Are you going to tell me what happened back there?” Caelan asked, breaking the quiet between them both.

Ardyn sighed. “I suppose I should be forward about my behavior.”

“You knew Prompto from when you were chancellor, right?”

Ardyn nodded. He made a face. Caelan could’ve sworn he looked regretful. “Being one of his majesty’s retainers, we’ve had our fair share of encounters. I may have viciously toyed with him for my amusement. Several times, may I add."

“Oh,” Caelan furrowed her brows. She wasn’t going to lie, envisioning Prompto being knocked down a peg by Ardyn hurt in a way, just considering his friendly demeanor during the time she had conversed with both himself and Cindy.

“That explains why he looked shocked.”

“Can’t blame the boy,” Ardyn sighed. “I did a number on him.”

“What he told me then must be legitimate.”

“Beg pardon?”

“While you were gone,” Caelan let out a breath, feeling her heart rate further decrease from their earlier antics. “Cindy pulled me to the side to meet Prompto. He talked about Noctis.”

Ardyn’s expression was that of surprise. “What did he say?”

“He said Noctis hasn't been feeling well. The whole report about the king taking a leave for mental health is a ruse. He’s been sick. It started a few months ago.” Caelan finished. She watched as Ardyn’s golden eyes wandered around, seemingly trying to gather his thoughts for contemplation. As if there were weaves of a tapestry finally giving birth to a picture he had been trying to create.

“Ardyn?”

“There’s no coincidence,” Ardyn began. He looked outward to the city lights of Insomnia, taking comfort in the illumination. It calmed his mind as it ravaged together all the loose ends and connections he had been fiddling with. “Around the time I returned to Eos, Noct became ill. It’s all connected. It has to be.”

“Cindy mentioned Lady Lunafreya is having visions too.” Caelan said quietly. She watched Ardyn turn to face her, once more he looked beyond worried.

“So the Astrals aren’t extinct.” Ardyn murmured begrudgingly.

Caelan could tell he was deeply troubled. The stoic gaze that lingered in his eyes was telling enough. She she gently gave Ardyn's right hand a squeeze with her left. A small smile fell upon her lips while she watched Ardyn look down to their hands. His thumb carefully rubbed comforting circles into Caelan's wrist.

“I’m sorry,” Ardyn began. He guided Caelan’s hand towards his lips, pressing a few chaste kisses to her knuckles. His eyes locking onto hers when he finished.

Caelan let out a surprised laugh, shaking her head. “What for?”

“Dragging you into this mess, for one thing. You shouldn't be forced to meddle in the affairs of Astrals on my behalf.” Ardyn shrugged. He let go of her hand, then wrapped his right arm around her waist, pulling her close to his body. He felt Caelan shudder. Whether it was from his action or the wind that picked up, Ardyn wasn’t certain, but he did enjoy feeling her hands instinctively go to his sides, embracing him back with equal want.

“The other, missing out on the rest of the concert. I know how much you love Vote Abandon. I thought we’d have a nice night out, before we decide to tackle fate. It seems we were given a gentle reminder tonight that there are games afoot.”

“You don’t say?” Caelan chuckled. She smiled big, watching Ardyn’s eyes trail over her face. Her knees felt weak, seeing the admiration grow in his eyes for her.

“I’m not upset at all,” Caelan shook her head, nervously chuckling. “I may have some issues with Cindy later on, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

“Oh dear,” Ardyn sighed. He was about to apologize once more until Caelan gently grabbed him by the chin much like he had done to her several times. Her thumb rubbed over some of the stubble on his face, watching his eyes light up.

“I had a lot of fun with you, and I chose to help you confront this. You have nothing to apologize for Ardyn.”

Caelan was surprised when Ardyn didn’t say a word. There was no counter on his part, and nothing sarcastic to be said. Not like other times when he was dismissive of her reassurances. He just kept…staring. Her own eyes were becoming hypnotized by his golden hues, watching his pupils expand the longer he dwelled on her lips.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Caelan murmured. There was an undertone of yearning in her voice as her head canted. She offered a smile, her eyes were now glancing between his mouth and honeyed look.

“Looking at you like what?” Ardyn teased back. The rumble in his chest while he snickered had the small hairs on Caelan’s arms stand.

“Like…that.” Caelan let out a small frustrated growl, not able to come up with anything further. It seemed to amuse Ardyn. She felt him grasp her chin, holding her in place while he pressed his lips to her forehead. Her eyes fluttered closed, relishing in the warmth to her temple.

“It’s past midnight,” Ardyn murmured against her skin. “What else would you like to do in the city?”

Caelan felt her entire body tremble from his voice. It amazed her, how her brain could be traveling a million miles a second, thinking of the next altercation or plan, and it would only take a mere look from him and he’d have her completely undone. Her mind putty that Ardyn could easily mold into whatever he desired, but he never took advantage.

“It might be too dangerous being out right now,” Caelan’s arms went around his waist, pressing her head into his chest. “Can we go back to the room? We could order something.”

“If that’s what you desire, certainly.” Ardyn pulled back, giving a soft smile to her. He leaned down and kissed her lips, pulling back before Caelan could fully tug and pull at him. He could sense her frustration, the small groan that left her had him chuckle as they traveled across the rooftop of the Via, heading to the elevator. Every so often, they'd glance at one another admirably.

Upon reaching the doors of the elevator, Ardyn gestured for Caelan to go before him. She did as instructed and they stood side by side. Caelan reached to click on the button for their floor, and as soon as the doors shut and there was no trace of anyone atop the Via they could see, Ardyn and Caelan grabbed a hold of each other. Kissing fervently.

Hands traveled along curves, fingertips buried in hair, and lips pushed and pulled desperately while the elevator made its descent. Ardyn pressed Caelan to the right most wall of the elevator, pinning her with his body while his mouth trailed down to bite and tease her neck and collarbone. He was rewarded with soft moans and Caelan’s hands threading through his hair. It seemed neither of them could take it anymore, the tension that had been growing between them for months was finally at a breaking point neither of them wanted to delay any further.

A surprised gasp left him when Caelan turned the tables. Ardyn found himself pinned, and Caelan was assaulting his throat with open mouthed kisses that drew long moans out of him. His entire nervous system felt like it was lit aflame as he grabbed onto her, his arms ensnaring her body keeping her close before letting out a growl. He loved her ministrations, but felt compelled to take charge. Ardyn once more pinned Caelan, minding not to put too much pressure on her back given her wounds, and forced one of her legs to wrap around his waist while his mouth consumed hers. He didn’t give Caelan the opportunity to catch her breath when his tongue slid past her lips and against her own muscle. Her heavy breaths encouraged him further. His fingers tangling in her hair, grabbing hold and keeping her in place.

Before he could take anything further, the ding of the elevator caused them both to quickly separate. Frozen on the spot, they both set their gazes forward in case anybody was coming on. It took a few moments for them to realize through the haze of their passions they had reached their floor.

Ardyn took hold of Caelan’s hand, leading the way out. As they ventured down the hall, he did a double take noticing Caelan motioning for him to stop. Both of them couldn't resist having another longing kiss before making it to the room. Her mouth was more than welcoming to him, and Ardyn fought the compulsion to proceed further.

“Bedroom,” Ardyn forewarned as he breathed against Caelan’s mouth. He didn’t have to explain further, watching her nod in agreement. His hand squeezed hers, and he led them the rest of the way to the end of the hall, grabbing the keycard from his right pocket getting them both inside.

Caelan felt a flight of nerves travel down the entirety of her form when she waited for Ardyn to shut the door. Memories of her first time ran amok through her head, the parts she could remember. She was incredibly nervous. A light sigh fell from her mouth as she allowed it to flow away, focusing on Ardyn. Her heart thudded powerfully in her chest. There was nothing else on her mind but him, and how desperately she wanted to be close. The closest either two humans could get. She hoped he felt the same.

Ardyn let out a deep breath, swallowing a nervous gulp he didn’t know he had. He hesitated to shut the door, his back to Caelan. He had longed for her, yet could feel reluctance sinking in. Not having alcohol in his system to dull his fears like their encounter at Lestallum, Ardyn began to second guess. It had been thousands of years since he had been intimate with someone. He was scared. The epiphany of it had him let out a huff and a smile. He wondered if his body would remember much, not for his sake but hers.

“This is probably a bad idea.” Ardyn said aloud, more to himself than anything.

“It’ll be a shared regret then.” He heard Caelan murmur. Her voice held a teasing play that had a pleasurable shiver travel down his spine.

Ardyn snickered. He knew there was no going back. Not unless she told him to stop. He wanted her.

As Ardyn shut the door, he let out a surprised hiss feeling Caelan tug the back of his hair. An amused and breathless laugh escaped him while he pressed the door shut and it locked. He turned around and captured Caelan's mouth in another kiss, coaxing her arms to go over his shoulders and hold onto him. Warmth pooled throughout his body. If he had anymore fears, he’d tell her.

Pining and wanting won both them over. Hours later, the only sounds escaping the room were breathy moans, pleads, and praises.

Notes:

**Alright, the next chapter is gonna be smut related, just a warning. If you like fade to black, this is your stopping point.

[lotus-pear]

regret

[funtimespringscare101]

So just finished Dawko's gamethrough of Poppy Playtime Chapter 3's ending and...

Potential Spoilers for Poppy Playtime Chapter 3: Deep Sleep. Newcomers beware!

... *Inhale* WHAT IN THE ACTUAL FUCK-

[hascapart]

how im feeling about the surprise ftfo update

[jtl-fics]

Fluent Freshman - Part 23

PREVIOUS

There were a few reasons that Andrew and Neil could not get past reception to go see FF or get updates on his current condition.

The first reason was that visiting hours were long over by the time they had arrived a little after midnight.

The second reason was that hospitals, in general, don’t just give out information on their patients to any random person that walks in and asks for an update on their condition. They are ESPECIALLY hesitant to give out updates on patients when the people who are asking can’t give you anything other than a first name, general description, and the reason that the patient is in the hospital.

Somehow “Completely average looking guy with the last name Smith who was stabbed in the stomach” is not enough for the receptionist to go off of.

“There are multiple people here that fit that description. I would need at least a first and last name before I could even begin to start seeing if you were someone who we even could give updates to. No, I will not continue to play your fun little game of guess the first name.” She says when Andrew opens his mouth to start listing off names alphabetically again.

So now Andrew and Neil found themselves under the watchful eye of a security guard as they sat in the back corner of the front reception area.

“I can’t believe we still don’t know what Smith’s first name is.” Neil says his face is buried in his hands as he and Andrew sit in the uncomfortable chairs trying to figure out where to go from here.

“I think she knows exactly who we want to see.” Andrew scowls towards the receptionist who, long used to the ire of the public, pays him no mind. Andrew just refused to believe that there were that many brown haired, brown eyed, average height and weight guys who had suffered a stab wound to the stomach that would have been admitted in the last two hours.

“I just hope they actually are looking after him and that no one went and forgot about him in an hallway somewhere.” Neil says hands sliding up into his hair to grip.

“That wouldn’t happen.” Andrew dismisses despite knowing that Wymack had ABSOLUTELY forgotten FF at a stadium once during the period where FF had been low presence to keep his family from bothering him.

The U-turn he had pulled had definitely been illegal when FF called and asked where the bus was when they had been on the road for five minutes. Wymack had felt terrible about it but FF had just seemed relieved that the bus had come back for him.

Wymack.

Andrew pulls out his phone and dials a familiar number. Wymack, reliable as always, picks up on the fourth ring with the sound of cursing as he got the phone up to his ear. “What.” He asks and Andrew can hear the sounds of driving and Kevin’s infamously train-like snoring in the background.

“What’s Smith first name. You know it.” Andrew demands.

“Classified.” Wymack clips back immediately.

“I need to know it so that we can get updates.” Andrew hisses.

“He isn’t interested in people knowing it and you wouldn’t be able to get updates anyways.” Wymack dismisses.

“We want to be able to head back to see him.” Neil tries.

“Visiting hours are long over Josten. You know that I’m not settling that bet that you little fuckers have floating around about this.” Wymack responds back.

Andrew grits his teeth and then forces himself to relax his jaw, “It’s not about the bet.” Andrew shuts his eyes in irritation.

That stupid bet.

The betting culture within the Palmetto State Foxes Exy team that Reynold’s had cultivated held strong even after her graduation with the remaining Foxes. The Bet had started when one of the other freshmen had mentioned that it was funny that FF went around like Cher or Madonna. The realization that none of them knew FF’s first name was one that had them placing bets on a multitude of things. Things like: “Do you wanna bet it’s a super normal boring name?”, “Do you wanna bet that it’s a weird foreign name?”, and “Is FF intentionally not giving it out to people or since he goes by his last name normally he has no idea that anything is amiss?” Had lower pools since you were betting on a spectrum. The bet with the highest pool is: “What is FF’s first name”.

Wymack had categorically refused to answer it and all other attempts to discover FF’s first name had been met with frustration. There was a solemn agreement that no one could just go and outright ask him since that would ruin all of the fun. Andrew had agreed to not ask when the team had collectively filled his freezer with ice cream cake and he was a man of his word.

The general belief (after the revelation of his major and the number of languages FF spoke) was that FF’s name was just not easy to pronounce for English speakers.

Andrew hadn’t participated but he know that the Foxes do have a running list of names they know it’s not. (Greg, Will, Smith (again), Matt, Kevin, Neil, Andrew, Aaron, Nathaniel, Jack, Beyonce (Sheena’s drunken guess), Nicholas, John, Fred, Garfield, Frank, Alfred, Augustus, Adam, etc. (Andrew had been trying to guess with the receptionist for a while))

“You’re coming here aren’t you? We can get updates when you get them.” Neil says.

“He’s in emergency surgery right now and will remain there for the next few hours most likely. There’s not going to be any updates hopefully.” Wymack says with a sigh loud enough that they can hear it over Kevin’s snoring.

“Surgery? He needs surgery?” Neil asks sounding surprised s if FF hadn’t been stabbed to the hilt into his stomach with one of Andrew’s knives. He’s about to give Neil some shit for the question before remembering that if there was any person who would think that a stab wound to the stomach wouldn’t necessitate surgery it would be Neil “I’m Fine” Josten.

“Yes Josten, he needs surgery. They have to stitch up his stomach and the surgeons are also going to be dealing with some of the ulcers that were ruptured by the knife.” Wymack explains likely coming to the same conclusion that Andrew had on Neil’s stupid question. “They were a bit worried about him bleeding out but he stabilized before the surgery.” Wymack sighs.

“I’m going the hospital since I’m Smith’s medical proxy. If anything goes wrong with the surgery I want to be there so I can make an informed decision on his care.” Wymack says and… Andrew figured there’d be surgery but to hear it and the possibility that something could go wrong, that the last thing FF had said to him had been something non-sensical about “Gracie Hart wouldn’t have gotten stabbed. I’m Cheryl at best.”as he’d started succumbing to all the blood loss. “If you could stick around long enough for me to drop Kevin off with you I would appreciate it.” Wymack says.

“What if he needs a blood transfusion?” Andrew says.

“Smith is AB-, it’s the second easiest blood type to transfuse into. Go home Andrew.” Wymack repeats.

Andrew works his jaw irritated that there didn’t seem to be a path to getting his way.

“We’ll stay here until you get here.” Andrew agrees, “But you’ll get an update before we leave.” He adds.

Wymack sighs, “Fair enough.” He says before hanging up.

It’s 45 minutes of waiting and tossing a few more name possibilities at the receptionist who seems more amused than anything at their continued attempts to guess their friend’s first name (Neil goes through the entire list of names that he’s gone by and none of them get the thumbs up).

Wymack comes through the doors with a half awake Kevin Day following his steps. “I have another favor to ask you.” Wymack says instead of any form of greeting.

“I’m not going to leave Kevin in the car overnight again. It was just that one time.” Andrew says with a roll of his eyes and honestly he’d been punished enough listening to Kevin bitch, moan, and sneeze for the following week while talking about all the supplements he was taking.

“Not that,” Wymack pauses, “I have two favors to ask you. First don’t do that. Second, would you be able to pick up Smith’s grandma from the airport tomorrow?” He asks.

Andrew blinks.

“She’s coming here?” He asks.

“I updated her on my way here. She booked a flight and will be arriving around noon tomorrow.” Wymack says and Andrew doesn’t know why he’s confused by this. FF’s grandma got him two still warm pies to cheer him up on Thanksgiving.

He’d stabbed that woman’s grandson.

“I’ll pick her up.” He agrees.

Shorter one today

NEXT

MASTERPOST FOR ALL PARTS OF FLUENT FRESHMAN AU

Per your requests:

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The requests to be added to the tag list keep being spread out across a few different areas. If I missed you please just ask again in the replies I promise I just missed you.

As stated before if you’re up here and I spelled it right but you didn’t get a notification there might be something switched around in your settings that won’t let me tag you properly?

[firestorm09890]

Heathcliff's chapter is right after Ishmael's, here's why I think Peccatulum Invidiae (the envy one) is finally going to be introduced in his chapter

*EDIT: turns out Superbiae and Luxuriae were introduced in Canto III, not II, so that slide's been changed to reflect that

[buttercupshands]

wait a minute

stop.

stop it.

[frootbyethefoot]

they're never bringing out the worst in us

[ID: two digital drawings of miu iruma and kokichi ouma from danganronpa v3: killing harmony. miu is crossing her arms and looking to the side with a blank, skeptical expression on her face. behind her is a silhouette of herself, drawn in all black, holding a hammer with a nervous expression. miu is colored in monochrome, and the background is bright red.

ouma is smiling, with a happy expression on his face. behind him is a silhouette of gonta gokuhara, drawn in all red, with a sad expression on his face, wrapping toilet paper around oumas neck. ouma is colored in a heavy red hue, while the background is pitch black. END ID/]

some silly doodles too! i draw so much stuff that makes me insane that i often forget the value of doodling A Silly Little Guy. ids in the alt text!

[epickiya722]

Anybody talks about Yuji being amazing in the last couple of chapters.

"Yuta is still stronger."

CAN HE NOT HAVE THE SPOTLIGHT?! LIKE, DAMN! LIKE WHO ACTUALLY GIVES A FUCK?! LIKE YUJI FANS REALLY CAN'T SAY "Yuji's doing so great" WITHOUT SOMEONE BRINGING YUTA UP?!

[lilliancdoodles]

Week 1 MerMay!! Roughish sketch of Life is like the ocean, it goes up and down (by @tastytoastz) Jaiden and Foolish chilling on the beach before everything goes to shit

[himichako]

words cannot explain how much this chapter means to me

[laugtherhyena]

You know what, no, i don't think I'll ever not be mad that Ayame was the only Dra culprit that didn't get an island or area dedicated to in Sdra2. That fact will always make me feel an ungodly rage within my soul.

[orcelito]

a note for people who may not have noticed this:

at the start of chapter one, we get this view of Vash's wanted poster. notice that bit there about the murder of "Count Revenant Vasquez"

and then in trimax chapter 37, we see here:

Count Revenant Vasquez.

That's Conrad.

now the interesting bit is that Conrad hasn't died by the time we see that wanted poster. he's currently busy working to revive Knives, then follows him around once he's alive again. for Whatever Reason, Vash is being blamed before Conrad's death for his "murder"

which makes me contemplate a few possibilities. Conrad was present around the time of the July Incident. and not only that, but we see in chapter 28 that Vash was looking for him just prior to July

so like, What's The Deal? "Count Revenant Vasquez" is not "dead" by this point, just acting oddly in his big house. perhaps after July with his disappearance, people attributed his "death" to Vash, along with all the rest of July... but why would they focus on just him, rather than all of July? is this Nightow wanting to keep the reality of July under wraps this early in the story? or was Conrad really That socially important that his death would stand out among all the rest of July?

and another thing to consider is how Vash knew to look for him under that name in the first place. Vash was pursuing Knives at this point, the whole Point was that he managed to find Knives in July, but he did it by following the trail of Conrad. he met Conrad when he was a child, the second human he ever met, so maybe he somehow managed to deduce that Conrad was helping Knives out?

except when Vash sees Conrad in trigun chapter 20

he recognizes him, but he can't place from where. is this his July amnesia getting in the way? the general passage of time? it HAS been a century and a half since he officially met him. but if he knew to look for him by that name to find Knives, he must have known Conrad was following him around... and then perhaps as part of the amnesia of everything surrounding July, Vash forgot Conrad too.

it's interesting! brings the question of how Vash caught wind of Conrad's involvement with Knives in the first place. we do see that Vash has his fingers in information networks (like when he talks to the "shoemaker" in May City to try to gather information), so maybe that's how he found out? which honestly I find fascinating, given that Especially this early in the story, we just see Vash acting the fool. but even Years prior to the start of the story, he shows a level of resourcefulness and intuition that is Very much not congruent with his act of being a "fool".

and then he shows up to confront Knives in July and his plan is to just

show up, point his gun at him, and then... ???? something? which obviously blows up in his face in a MAJOR way bc Knives easily knocks him out & then has Conrad experiment on him.

which. isn't directly related to the Conrad point lol it just baffles me how smart yet dumb Vash is constantly. high intelligence, low wisdom build for SURE.

but yeah! I didn't notice the Count Revenant thing my first read through, so here's this detail for anyone else who might've missed it like i did

[hecketernal]

Mar's Tomb Investigation AU

Sig hears about the Mar's Tomb break in. Understandably, he investigates for any possible ties to the young Mar. Good thing he already knows the right pair of rookies to talk to.

[ta-bajna-cerna-okybaca]

Now that I finally got to play TWST diasomnia chapter 1 myself, I'm gonna need everyone who said Malleus was a baby throwing a tantrum for no reason to pay me 2000 dollars each

[atpm1976]

help me its so dark in here