#the world if the TW characters could giggle more… let them get silly

[toastybugguy]

CRYING SO FUCKING HARD AT THE WAY SCOTT STRAIGHT UP GIGGLES WHEN STILES RUNS AND HUGS HIM… HOW DID I NOT CATCH THIS BEFORE. biting my entire fist right now. tears streaming down my face.

[boydiisaster]

It's so awesome there's blogs like yours out there trying to provide content for GN and Male fans. It's so hard to find anything even GN, and as a nonbinary person I just want you to know how much it's appreciated! If you're okay with taking requests right now, I have an Obey Me one? Do you have any headcanons on a poly/throuple relationship between a GN MC, Satan, and Solomon? Those two are surprisingly good friends in canon and alike in a lot of ways, I love them both so much!

throuple satan and solomon headcanons

reader: gender neutral, they/them pronouns

tw/cw: a bit of spoilers and fighting/blood mentions

author's note: AWW YOU'RE GONNA MAKE ME CRY YOU'RE SO NICE, ANON :,) i'm trying my hardest to provide more content for other male and gender neutral readers out there, so i really hope that what i write is enjoyable for yall <33 also i haven't the slightest idea of satan and solomon's canon relationship because i'm only at like lesson 30 smth and don't keep up with my messages so i just pulled most of their dynamic for this out of my ass ( ._.)

It was like a cat just met a dog when Satan and Solomon started dating. They have similarities, sure, but whereas Satan is cold and calculated with his spells, plans, and pranks, it's as if Solomon doesn't think. Like, ever.

How was someone so smart so insufferably stupid at the same time? It's as if Satan is his babysitter more than he's his boyfriend.

Oh god and when Solomon ropes you into doing something with him-

"I hate you both," Satan grumbles, checking your temperature and seeing how it's well above the normal temperature for humans. "Solomon, you can't just drag MC on all your dangerous adventures. They're much more human than you are."

"Just because I accidentally made a spell that cursed me with immortality doesn't mean I'm any less human than they are." Solomon crosses his arms at his boyfriend's hurtful words. "Besides, MC wanted to come with me. Isn't that right, MC?"

You didn't speak. That was probably because you had passed out from how incredibly fatigued you were. Your skin was sticky and noticeably sweaty, eyes closed shut while letting out painful whimpers.

"Tell me again just what happened to them?" Satan groans as he opens a spell book. God knows where he got it. He did that a lot. He was like a video game character or something the way he'd just pull books or spell jars from out his ass. He was always the one Mammon would ask for a pencil, because hell he had like hundreds on him at all times.

"Well," Solomon cheekily smiles and scratches the back of his neck. "We went looking for some herbs for a new spell I concocted."

"Uh huh?"

"And MC sort of... fell."

"What did they fall on, Solomon?"

Said man falls silent. "Solomon?" Satan drags out his lover's name, threatening him, to which all Solomon can do is smile again, this time more nervous.

"They kind of, maybe, fell into a bush of what could have been poisonous flowers...."

"What kind of poisonous flowers, Solomon?" Satan glares at him.

Solomon thinks for a moment, then clasps his hands together. "Let's just say that if we don't get Diavolo or Lucifer in the next," he looks toward a clock, "fifteen or so minutes, MC might fall asleep for probably a whole millennium."

That earns the sorcerer a big thwack to the back of his head by Satan's spell book.

That was probably the first major incident where you were dragged into Solomon's dangerous plans, but it certainly wasn't the last. Most of the time you either ended up with several scrapes or bruises, things Satan or Solomon could easily patch up on their own. But sometimes you'd come back missing a shirt or as a cat.

(It's hard for Satan to be mad at Solomon for accidentally turning you into a cat, but he manages it because you were furious.)

... You were a really cute cat though, MC.

A cat was frantically trying to climb up Satan's pant leg. He was out in the garden tending to his flowers when a kitty he'd never seen before made their way through the bushes and crashed into his leg.

"Hello little one," he smiled at the cat. "Are you lost?"

The cat let out a pitiful wail and latched themselves onto Satan's leg. Satan frowned a bit and started to get worried. "Are you hurt? What's wrong?"

He picked up the cat to examine them. They were a cute little thing with [eye color] eyes and a sleek fur coat. Satan couldn't see anything physically wrong with them. Their paws looked fine, and there was no blood anywhere.

"Did you lose your mom? Maybe your kitten?" he began to muse, then Solomon exploded through the bushes looking frantic as ever.

"Have you seen a cat?" he gasped for air. "About this tall, [eye color] eyes, clearly upset?"

"You mean this one?" Satan held up the cat he found.

"Yes! Give them here-"

The cat hissed and clawed at Solomon's hand, burying themselves further into Satan's grasp. They growled, then looked toward Satan to let out another pitiful whine.

"MC, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to!" Solomon cried.

The cat hissed again.

"I'm sorry, did you just say MC?"

Solomon stiffened. He started to laugh nervously, fiddling with his cuffs. "Uh... would you break up with me if I told you I turned our darling MC into a tiny cat...? If so then no, I didn't say MC."

"You did what?!"

"Oh would you look at the time! I have a meeting with Lord Diavolo I must attend to right now, goodbye Satan, I love you!"

And then Solomon left, leaving Satan to fix whatever spell he put on their partner by himself. Satan wasn't angry about it, but the look of pure rage on your little furry face was enough to let Satan know that if he kept you as a cat for a moment longer you'd raise hell upon everyone in the vicinity.

Having a pact with a demon means that pretty much everything you do is shared with said demon. You feel emotions stronger, god forbid if you feel their specific emotions. You could be angry at Mammon for swiping a bag of candy you bought for yourself, but you act as if Mammon robbed you of every last thing you had just because of the pact you share with Satan. He feels awful about that, even though you reassure him time and time again that:

1.) It's not his fault, and

2.) You wanted a pact with him

Even so, please give Satan cuddles and kisses after he gets all sulky. He acts composed, but on the inside he's so incredibly self-conscious of both his sin and his pact with you.

"You need to be more careful," Satan quietly mused as he bandaged your hurt hands and face. You had gotten into a fight at school because a demon shoved you, and now you were currently inside Satan's room, getting blood all over his pretty carpet.

"I know," you softly sighed and hissed once the rubbing alcohol came into contact with the cuts on your face. "I just, I don't know. It set me off for some reason."

Your boyfriend hesitated for a moment, then applied a bandage to your cheek. "It's because of the pact."

"Satan-"

"You know I'm right, MC." Satan didn't look at you when he talked. Instead he looked at his lap, which had the first aid kit he was using to fix you up in it. "I know I talk about this a lot but... I am truly sorry for doing this to you."

"Hey," you cupped his cheek. "It's not your fault. I can learn to live with this. I learnt to handle my greed, envy, and gluttony when I built pacts with your brothers, right?"

"You shouldn't have to though. Maybe it's best if I-"

You silently kissed him. It was a bittersweet kiss, one filled with love yet unspeakable sadness and hurt. Satan was so self-conscious of his sin, yet you loved him still anyway. You wished he could see that.

"Don't finish that thought," you whispered as you pulled away. Resting your forehead against his, you continued. "I love you. Despite your sin, despite how you were born, despite everything; I love you. I chose you, and I wanted a pact with you." You smiled, and Satan couldn't help but blush at your next sentence.

"You silly demon. You really can't see how amazing you are, huh? It's okay though, because both me and Solomon will always be here to remind you."

Solomon touches all your pact marks constantly. When you take off your shirt it's hard to stop him from touching Leviathan's mark located directly on your back. He's always rubbing his fingers over Beelzebub's symbol on your stomach, always outlining Mammon's mark on your wrist. Sometimes he kisses Belphegor's symbol on your throat. When meeting your eyes, he never fails to stare into the one that holds Lucifer's mark, and even though you cover your thighs almost all the time, it's like Solomon can tell where Asmodeus's mark is. It's his favorite place on your thigh to touch.

You sighed whenever you felt Solomon's lips touch the small of your back. A smile made its way onto your own lips as you giggled.

"I didn't expect Satan to place his mark somewhere so... subtle," he admitted as he popped up to press a kiss to your cheek.

You looked at him out of the corner of your eye. He was playing with your wrist again, looking at the symbol of greed that adorns your skin.

"Solomon," you started.

Your lover hummed. You could tell he was beginning to grow drowsy. His eyes were closed and his movements slowed.

"Are you... jealous?"

That woke him up. He made you face him, and the expression he wore was unreadable. It worried you. Maybe you shouldn't have said that.

"I just mean, like," you grew embarrassed. "Um... you're always touching my pact marks, or always looking at them, and I don't know. Are you mad at me for them?"

The sorcerer gently grasped your hands. His fingers were weirdly soft considering how much he uses them. He sat there for a moment, just running his thumbs over your palms before speaking.

"I am a little," he admitted. "But I'm not mad at you. If anything I'm proud."

You smiled a bit. It was a lopsided and awkward sort of smile, but to Solomon it was the most beautiful thing in the world, as cheesy as that sounded.. He loves seeing his partners happy. He loves seeing you happy.

"You're much stronger than you think," Solomon continued. "Being able to hold seven different pact marks, ones belonging to Avatars, as a human with no sort of prior knowledge on magic?" He beamed. "You're incredible."

That only embarrassed you more. You groaned a bit and tried swatting Solomon away to hide your face, but your lover only pulled you in for a short yet loving kiss.

"You're cute, you know that?"

"You're cuter," you retorted. Solomon just smiled.

"Whatever helps you sleep at night, dear. Speaking of which," he leaned back on your bed and made grabby hands at you, indicating that he wanted you to lay next to him. "I'm tired. Cuddle me."

"So needy," you joked, but instantly complied to Solomon's request. He was never like this in public. It was nice seeing him so open and vulnerable... and cute.

[yoshkeii]

𝟹𝚛𝚍 𝚆𝚒𝚜𝚑 | 𝟹𝟻𝟶+ 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚝

࿐ character: Nobuyuki Kai, Tsukishima Kei, Shouhei Fukunaga 

࿐ prompt: 3) “You keep staring at me.” 7) “You’re safe now. Breathe.” 9) "Please never do that again."

࿐ type: imagine

࿐ requested by: anon for my 350+ event.

⌦ male!reader (he/him)

⌦ tw: panic attack (on Kai’s part.)

⌦ slightly suggestive?? on Fukunaga’s part- (its just.. thighs...)

⌦ ‘for the event, could I request an imagine with the dialogue prompts, 7, 9, and 3, with the characters Kai, Tsukishima, and Fukunaga? male pronouns‘

A/N: writing for characters i haven’t yet makes me have to use my brain to be original but its a fun process lmao- also hopefully i portrayed the panic attack for Kai’s part okay. Ive had some personally but they are really hard to explain for me. 

𝚃𝚜𝚞𝚔𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚖𝚊 / “𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚔𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚎.”

Being the fifth 1st year on the Karasuno team, you really found it hard to fit in and communicate with the others. Adding on with not being in the main set or switched out often. During practice you mainly look different.

Often taking off some piercings you had that would make stuff difficult to play in, often just having the classic small earrings on. Your h/c hair being slightly longer than most boys, often tying it up into a half-up french twist during practice while you left it down during school hours to hide your piercings from attention.

After another rough afternoon of practice, you slumped down against a wall sighing in relief as you shut your eyes. Sweat dripping down your face, “another tough.. practice” you heaved softly to yourself. Sitting there silently you just listened to the idle chatter of the other members and the squeaking of rubber on the hard floor. Flinching at the sudden cheer of your name from Yamaguchi, you opened your eyes to see him with Tsukishima aside of him.

“Hurry up y/n! Tsuki’s gonna leave ya if you don’t!!”

“A-ah shit! M-my bad, Tadashi-” 

Quickly standing up you jogged over towards the two, already having your bag in hand. “Sorry about that..” you sighed, “..today was just really tiring..”

“It’s fine! Today was pretty tough than usual” Yams replied reassuringly.

As you three left practice you walked each other home, it often went like this. You and Yams bickering about your interests and what happened throughout your day, while Tsukishima just listened. Usually butting in with a retort or a salty joke at one of you. But as the distance grew close, Yamaguchi left first home. Tsukishima second. Then leaving you to walk home alone which wasn’t very far from his house luckily. But this time... he’s walking you home first, claiming he wanted to talk a little longer with you, oddly enough to hear.

Agreeing reluctantly, you both walked down the road towards your house.

“You said you wanted to.. talk right?” You looked up at the short-haired blond, head tilting to the side. “..but you’re oddly quiet now! What’s up with that-”

“Nothing in particular idiot.” 

“Is that so Kei?” “You’re so weird sometimes yknow that”

“Same goes to you piercing-boy.”

You stuck your tongue at him, revealing a silver ball on your tongue. How- How has it not caught that sooner? Has it always been there? He just stared intently at it then you, back and forth as you continued to talk about whatever... comeback you had. Was it a comeback? Or were you just talking. He didn’t fucking know at this point. His mind clouded with whatever.. thoughts he had. Before the soft raising of your voice snapped him out of them,

“..Kei! What’s up with you- You just keep staring at me? Are you not feeling well or sumn’??” you questioned, eyes squinting at him.

“N-no.. I’m f-fine..” Tsukishima stuttered.

“Hey!! You stuttered! That’s not the Kei I know-”

“I didn’t stutter- Now shut up dumbass-”

𝙺𝚊𝚒 / “𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚏𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚠. 𝙱𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚎.”

It was finals week. Having less time to relax and have fun, you were here stressing out in your room. Sitting at your desk with a laptop, notebooks, textbooks, everything. You needed to pass. You needed too, this being your last year at Nekoma made it your last stretch.

Letting out a deep sigh as you slammed your head on your desk, the books and paper lightly cushioning the harsh contact. You were so stressed. Overwhelmed. The stabbing thoughts of being a disappointment stabbed your mind, heart, and even soul. You were scared of it. Deciding to get some fresh air, you got up and started to leave your room. As each step was taken, your legs felt like jello. Not solid. Worrying yourself, you grabbed the doorway as you swung the door open. Standing there for moment, everything felt weird... You felt weird.

You didn’t know what was happening. Your mind was too hazy. Clustered with confusing thoughts. 

Collapsing onto the floor, your knees roughly meeting the hardwood floor possibly bruising them. Struggling to regain your breaths from the hyperventilation, you had no luck. Grasping at your shirt for closure. You just kneeled on the floor.

Not noticing the front door opening from down the hall, the sudden bag drop. And the surprising warmth of Kai’s hands met yours and your face. Hot tears dripping down your face as your body continuously changed from hot to cold. Not being able to understand the words slipping out of the vice-captain’s mouth, he quickly took note and engulfed your body into his. Arms securing comfort around your back as he started to massage your scalp.

Releasing your trembling hands from your shirt, you slowly grasped your boyfriend’s jersey. Chin resting on his shoulder as he whispered reassurances and comfort to you, the tears dripping down your face didn’t stop. But you had shortly stop hyperventilating, having uneasy shaky breaths still. Hearing the particular words slip past Kai’s lips, 

“You’re safe now. Breathe. Baby please...”

𝙵𝚞𝚔𝚞𝚗𝚊𝚐𝚊 / “𝙿𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚍𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗.”

Having Fukunaga as a boyfriend is really really nice- His personality and yours meshing well together, his presence is really comforting oddly enough. Even if its just him and you sitting in silence together in your shared space or him spitting out jokes he thinks out of the top of his head in any moment- It never fails to make you laugh or feel uncomfortable, and that means the world to him.

But as of now, your flustered expression only made the short-haired male look up at his boyfriend with a dorky expression... inbetween his lover’s thighs. His cheeks slightly squished as he lightly pushed your thighs with his hands that were on the sides. The silly grin on his face only made your face flushed up more, never really thinking Fukunaga would be.. kinda a thigh man.

You were just insecure about them. But he proved you wrong in the most adorable way. His dorky face being squished lightly inbetween them as he giggled softly are your expression.

“My lil’prince is flustered~” he cooed, placing a soft kiss on your inner thigh, earning a squeak from you.

Fukunaga gazed up at you, his eyes glittering at the cute noise you let out. He kissed you again in the same area, retrieving the same noise but with a few more words.

“S-shou! Stop that!! Y-you I’m pretty ticklish babe-” You angrily muttered, your rosy face making you look soft more than angry.

Without a reply coming from him, he did it again. 

“I s-swear to g o d, S-Shouhei..!! Please never.. do that again..” you muttered, the deepened color of flush on your face signaled it was a lie.

“..not even in be-” before Fukunaga could finish his snarky reply, you shoved a pillow on his face.

“SHOUHEI NO-”

[nozomijoestar]

Cannot get this out my head so just remember what I said about these two becoming more like each other and turn that into an entire piece, if you think abt it they're the same character interpreted two ways as is (tws for one sentence of body horror)

The philosophy of the Trikaya came to mind so I tried to embody it in sections and at times blurring together; my paragraph length is deliberately formatted to show the differences in character, have fun trying to decipher what the paragraph lengths mean for each character mindset

I couldn't decide 100% on what Susumu Hirasawa song fits them best so for now (lyric index) I'm considering Moonlight/Shadow of the Moon, The Master's Mountain, A Strange Night of Omnificence, and Venus

Individually Reina's Hirasawa character song is Day Scanner, Kumiko's is Snow Blind

For non Hirasawa music there’s You by Kazami off the Samurai Champloo ost / Eternal by SCANDAL (lyrics)

Also Yūko is listening to Tupac's Life Goes On & Me Against The World

There was something different. Not a bad thing surely, but different all the same. Was it Kumiko standing straighter than usual? No perhaps it was the way her jaw set while weighing decisions. Maybe it had to do with ease of her touch, or the resolve that could flash like lightening through slow motion at random in her gaze. 

Whatever it was and why didn’t change its singularity against all else. It was a difference. The concept sent a chill rippling through her; she imagined a figure being peeled back then rearranged before being resewn. A terrible nausea took her then and her playing faltered. Her fingers may as well have become lead on the trumpet valves. She stopped and lowered her trumpet ever so carefully. Change. Would Kumiko one day forget her sound?

Why had Reina stared at her like that after practice? Was there something in her teeth today? No she couldn't be silly. Reina would never see through her over anything trivial. If you asked Kumiko, that intensity easily took its place as the scariest feeling anyone worth more than five minutes of effort had shown her. But she wasn't saying Reina, or anybody, came off as some pet project! It was just...she couldn't give everybody equal time. There were only so many pieces of herself to split for everyone. There were only so many Kumikos before she burst at the seams. At least, these days there were. She preferred that; she knew what the alternative made her.

If you asked her to rank them though, Reina had a slice so huge it was unfair. Kumiko was sure she knew it too. So why had her eyes grasped her heart? She felt a repeat of the feeling now as it struck her even in memory. She was naked before that stare- like her whole being had unfurled the moment Reina's presence approached. Like she saw herself outside her own body. Like Kumiko could die fulfilled.

Her fingers slid over the cool brass of her euphonium. The way the sensation prickled her skin made the air sharper, let it flow through her touching everything before she exhaled. It didn't come frantic but steady and coaxed.

She brought the mouthpiece to her lips and played. Her eyes closed amid the cicada calls in this familiar nook under the shadow of Kitauji's building. Her feet planted easy on this ground that'd received her sweat and blood without complaint season after season. She played.

She played a note for everything, for every breath gave rise to a memory. High notes lifted joyful moments like bubbles meeting the sky. Low notes spiraled their way up beside them in hesitation, but rising nevertheless. Soon the divide blurred and she no longer knew where the two separated.

Together they soared from her; the music a tapestry woven in on itself over and over. The feeing was older than her, older than anyone she knew living. Notes wandered, whole passages surged endless. The piece that wasn't a piece vibrated her blood. The sound rattled her bones. She played.

Her fingers burned exhaustion asking so much of the euphonium. She didn't dare stop. A little more and it'd take a true shape and-

From everywhere a calm that stood side by side with anticipation washed over her. There came the sound of footsteps. Reina turned the corner eyes widened by a hair and lips barely open. Her cheeks had gone flush coloring her like a human sized red crayon. Seeing her in shock drove Kumiko's mind frantic and buzzing until all she blurted out after scooting backward was-

"Do you have a fever?"

"........I could ask you the same thing. Here."

The water was cold and the bottle sweating condensation. Drinking it melted her adrenaline into lava. Her body aches as if scrubbed raw beneath the heat under her skin. The world spun just for an instant before Reina pressed a second water bottle against her neck.

Kumiko yelped, jumping out her chair and scrambling to keep her euphonium from crashing to the floor. Her shoe trips but in an instant Reina is behind her holding her upright. Water from the bottle Kumiko clutched splashed across their skirts and sleeves. When she registered the cold dripping down her knees the picture of what she'd done snapped into place. Before she could control it her voice stuttered out.

"T-T-thanks. Sorry for the mess."

"It's fine. Come and sit."

She let herself be guided by Reina's hand. When they sat side by side the world became right again. Kumiko still gasped and wheezed as she let Reina's fingers tidy her hair. Over time the motions had graduated from bumbling to meticulous; she couldn't clearly remember a time Reina hadn't been doing this anymore.

"What were you playing? I've never heard it."

The tone to her words made Kumiko's stomach sink a little. It wavered between curiosity and scolding; yet at the same time found itself half smothered by her quiet voice. Had she been at it that long? Her body certainly said more than either could.

"Nothing. Was just free-styling and stuff...practice."

"Practice doesn't almost give you heat stroke."

"Maybe not for you, but if I'm special too now then I have to catch up. If I don't there's no point."

Reina's laugh burst from her clear and free. Kumiko's eyes widened. She knew exactly what was coming. The way Reina's black hair draped down her shoulders, the way this angle teased at her nape, the crinkle of her eyes and wiggling eyebrows as her head was thrown back; everything was Reina, and it emptied her mind. She remained staring with her mouth slack like an idiot when she heard it. Now Reina's voice became love.

"You're awful." 'Don't you know we're already alike?'

Reina had finally deciphered Kumiko's new attitude three days ago. Perhaps. Almost. Maybe. Her hunch was solid. Now she needed proof. She wanted proof so bad her blood boiled. Voices leaked through the band room doors. Picking out Kumiko's laugh was child's play. It had a warm quality she couldn't describe even as it calmed her heart.

She entered and wrestled the surge of emotions she couldn't pick apart coursing through her. Her expression remained flat. Calm. Centered. Reina Kousaka did not roar at the world before an audience.

For whatever reason Kumiko had yet to notice her in their crowd of bandmates. She slowed her steps, kneeled near a wall pretending to search her bag. Kumiko sat with Midori and Hazuki today. Their conversation filled her ears, stoked her irrational fear. That fear which hung over her heavier than a headman's axe. That fear who's tendrils constricted her heart at its leisure.

'You wouldn't abandon me without a word would you?'

Childish, Reina Kousaka!

"That part is so tough. My mom's been putting dinner aside when I come home late."

"You always practice real hard Hazuki. It'll be worth it. That's what Nationals are all about! Don't you think so Kumiko?"

"Lately it sounds like my breath control's gotten stronger. When I play the sound is talking...or something like that. I wanna give it all I've got. So I'm glad we're going for it."

"Who're you now? Reina?"

They giggled even as they complimented her after. It didn't matter, her mind raced. What emotions had coursed now rose to a flood. She felt her heartbeat through her tongue. Pride? Kumiko felt...pride in playing...because of her? At the very least with her as a reason?

"Kousaka what're you doing?"

Yūko loomed over her causing Reina to smack into her pink headphone wire when she turned. She flinched and rubbed her nose. She looked up at her; her mind blanked.

"Checking my things."

"You must have a museum in there to be checking your bag for three minutes straight. You look super weird, what's going on?"

No quips or barbs loaded in response; nor could anything dampen the joy already swirling in her head. Besides, any qualms with Yūko were long outgrown. Why dwell on what was settled? Her body still tingled. Kumiko was proud because of her.

Yūko kept staring in anticipation as the song blaring through her headphones faded into another. Reina noticed that little twist of the mouth she did whenever she got impatient. Reina's lips moved to answer her but Yūko cut her off.

"Fine. You don't have to tell me. It better not divide the band though."

"...It's between me and Kumiko. No one else."

"Oh. In that case uh...if you want to talk to someone..."

Watching Yūko look away and scratch her chin awkwardly made her swallow a laugh. Instead she smiled and nodded. Maybe she should blame her mood but a calmness settled her back into reason. Like a bridge connecting, a hand outstretched, she grasped Yūko's kindness. It was good to be alone, not lonely.

"I will. Thanks."

Nights on Mount Daikichi were more natural for them than breathing. Cloaked in the silver and blue of moonlight they glowed at first glance. Countless lights below lit the city like a map of stars. Like gazing up at the sky on Tanabata to find Orihime and Hikoboshi. The cicadas buzzing filled in their silence that wasn't silence. They held their breath even as they breathed.

"When you think about improving, what does that really mean?"

Reina inched her pinky atop Kumiko's. Kumiko did the same. Her head went back as she watched the sky.

"Hmmm...probably a road. There's a place far away just enough for me to see. I don't know everything it has; I know because of that, chasing it makes me better. I used to think it had to stay straight once I started. Kinda stupid, 'cuz I take turns on it all the time. You?"

Reina paused a moment, face contemplative.

"There are stars. Most despite sitting in the sky are far from the moon. Most burn out. Some fall. Fewer get their chance beside the moon. Their light shines the longest. Their light inspires people."

"Pft hehe, there you go saying stuff like a book character again. That's just like you. Is there any room for the band up there?"

"...Maybe..."

"Is there any room for me?"

Without warning Reina leaned closer; her expression went stern. Her voice faltered though it tried being firm. It was the softest tone Kumiko had heard in her life.

"Don't ask stupid questions."

"Ok. I won't."

Their foreheads touched and the cool breeze turned warm on their skin.

"What do you think of the others then...past and present?"

Kumiko shut her eyes. Aoi. Haruka. Kaori. Natsuki. Shūichi. Nozomi. Mizore. Midori. Hazuki. Yūko...Asuka.

The faces of all who's paths intersected and footsteps left prints as guides, tethers connecting her to the universe, appeared in her mind. Each had drawn on a blank sheet of her soul. They were nowhere near her yet she felt them echo. They were her as she was them.

"Unrivaled under Heaven."

"Now who's talking like a novel character?"

"Cut it out." Kumiko replied through a chuckle.

Their eyes met. Reina smirked but only for a pause. She inched forward, asking a question. Kumiko shut her eyes again.

The kiss was unlike anything before and possibly after. An explosion of sensations though they didn't move a muscle. There was no time to remember it yet each second couldn't be forgotten. Feelings of melting, soaring, absolving, each melded and surpassed bliss. The result transcended any name they could give it. A release.

They pulled away. Both panted for air then examined each other as if for the first time. They no longer looked; they saw. They no longer knew, they understood.

Many questions were on the verge of pouring; instead Kumiko cupped Reina's cheeks and smiled. Her thumbs brushed off the forming tears. She didn't say a word when Reina fell into her arms. She simply rested a hand on her head and held her trembling body.

The moon's brightness peaked. If you asked her, it'd moved a little closer.

[ashtheshortstack]

take my scars & make them stars - ch 7

Rating: M Ship: Kristoff/Anna Chapter Seven

Tags: Hurt/Comfort, Angst, Sick Fic, Cancer Fic, Chronic Illness, Chemotherapy, Modern AU, Coffee Shop AU, Fluff and Angst, Fluff, Eventual Smut, Angst with a happy ending, Mutual Pining, Mentions of Character Death

Read on Ao3

Previous Chapter/Next Chapter

TW: Blood, Character Death, Depression Mention, Grief

Kristoff was terrified when his mother told him she was pregnant. He ran away to his room, slamming the door behind him. Curling onto his bed, hot tears trickled down his cheeks and over his nose. It wasn’t fair, he thought. It wasn’t fair that he was finally happy and it would be taken away from him. 

Bulda slowly cracked open the door, peaking in. “Kristoff?” 

He sniffled in response, not daring to look at her. 

“Oh, baby, what’s wrong?” she asked as she made her way to his bed. 

Scooping him into her lap, Bulda stroked his blond locks. Kristoff tried to take comfort in her touch, but it only made him feel worse. 

“You’re having a baby. That means you’re going to give me back, right?” he murmured as he wiped his nose on his sleeve. 

“ What? Honey, what on earth would give you that idea?” 

Pulling away, he tilted his head at her. What was she talking about? Shouldn’t she know exactly why? 

“B-Because you got me because you couldn’t have a baby. And now, you’re having a baby so you don’t need me anymore.”

He watched Bulda sigh, her shoulders sinking as she shook her head. “No, Kristoff,” she cupped his cheek with a smile. “You’re my baby, too. My first one. This baby will be your little brother or sister.” 

Kristoff blinked. “Really?” 

“Of course, honey,” she tugged him back into her arms. “No one could ever replace you. You’re mine. And you’ll never be able to get rid of me.” 

“I’d never want to get rid of you, Mama.” 

She chuckled at that. “Tell me that again when you’re a teenager.” 

  When Pepper was born, Kristoff’s world tilted on its axis. Things were so different afterwards. Sometimes good and other times really bad. The constant squawling kept him up at night, making him cranky at times. He tried his best to put on a happy face, but it could be difficult at times. But Bulda always checked in. She always reassured him that babies were just like that and it would get better. She was right, of course. As Pepper grew older, Kristoff found himself by her side all of the time. 

Despite being ten years older than her, Kristoff was able to relate to her. Able to help her with drawing and reading. When his parents bought him a guitar, he started playing and singing to her anytime he could. It made him smile when she’d giggle and clap along. 

Pepper was full of attitude, and definitely kept her brother on his toes. When he was in charge of babysitting when she was four… somehow they both ended up soaked and covered in bubbles when she had tried to draw her own bath. Or when she shook a soda can, unknowing of the consequences. 

Then blamed Kristoff for it. 

  The diagnosis came from nowhere. One minute she was a happy and healthy little girl… then she wasn’t. How had he not known? How could he not tell she was suffering all that time? Was she in pain? Had she been hiding this from him? 

Kristoff was grateful that the hospital in Arendelle had such a great cancer treatment facility. They did everything for Pepper. Doing everything they could to give her a happy life. 

During the weeks she’d stay at the hospital, he was there every single day after school. Kristoff sat on her bed, and each day he’d read her a new chapter of her favorite books. Princess themed tales weren’t exactly Kristoff’s cup of tea, but they were Pepper’s and he’d read them all damn day if she wanted him to. 

“Hey, Kris?” 

Pausing, he glanced at her. “Yeah?” 

She gazed up at him with those wide chocolate eyes. “Do you think happily ever afters really exist?” 

Kristoff smiled with a laugh. “Sure, why not?’ 

“What about love at first sight?” 

He shrugged. “That one is a little more far-fetched, don’t ya think?” 

Pepper pouted. “Why?” 

“Uh, I dunno. It’s hard to believe that you could love someone just by looking at them, right?” 

Poking him in the cheek, she gave him a look. “You’re a party pooper, Kris.” 

“Hey, you asked me what I thought!” 

“Well, you’re dumb.” 

He scoffed, turning back to the book. “Maybe, you’re the one that’s dumb,” he muttered. 

Pepper went silent next to him. Sparing her a glance, he saw her gazing out the window with that far away look in her eyes she got sometimes. Kristoff often wondered if the chemo messed with her attention span. It already messed with her appetite, her taste, the feeling in her fingers and toes. It wouldn’t surprise him if it messed with her head too. 

“I hope you find it…” she sighed. 

“What?” 

Pepper smiled, still gazing out the window. “Happily ever after.” 

Kristoff’s heart tightened. He hated it when she got like this. There was way too much wisdom in her voice for a six-year-old. It was frightening how mature she’d gotten in the last year and a half. He assumed that fighting to live could do that to a person, no matter what age. But still, it scared him. 

Placing a hand on her bare scalp, he smiled at her when she glanced up at him. “You’ll find it before me… but any prince that wants your heart has to go through me first.” 

“Kris, you can’t beat up my boyfriend.” 

“I can and will.” 

She laughed and shook her head. “No. I won’t let you.” 

He was going to retort, but she curled into his side and looked at the book expectantly. With a sigh, he brushed off whatever else he had to say. Fine, Pepper could have the last word that day. Instead, he continued reading. Glancing at her occasionally as she dozed off. 

  She got worse. Kristoff wasn’t ready for her to go downhill so quickly. She had gotten to come home for a few weeks at a time, then she’d go back to the hospital for treatments. Pepper had even gotten to start kindergarten, which they hadn’t expected would happen. So why? 

Why was she suddenly not okay? 

The sound of harsh coughing echoed through the halls, gaining his attention. Then his mother was suddenly shouting from Pepper’s bedroom. Sharing a look with his father in the living room, they both jumped to their feet. Kristoff’s feet moved on their own as he sprinted through the house. 

Pepper lay curled in Bulda’s arms, her little hands splattered with blood as she hacked into her palms. There were tears running down her little cheeks. Oh, God. Oh, God. Dread washed over him as his father was instantly on his knees beside them. 

“Kris! Kris, grab the phone! Call the doctor,” Cliff shouted over Pepper’s horrendous coughing. 

Swallowing the lump in his throat, he nodded. He ran to his parent’s room and snatched the phone from the nightstand. Scrolling through the contacts, he found the number. 

“Hello? Dr. Mattias? Something’s wrong with Pepper.” 

  Seeing Pepper so frail… it brought out an emotion Kristoff couldn’t describe. It wasn’t sadness. No, it was beyond that. It was deeper than grief and anguish. This wasn’t an emotion that could be described. There was a heaviness in his chest that held him. The feeling trapped him. Made it hard to breathe. 

They were left alone when his parents left the room to speak with the doctor. He’d never seen her so full of tubes… An I.V. dripped into her arm, tubes stretched from her nose… a feeding tube pumped her stomach. Her own body was betraying her. Refusing to work. Refusing to breathe. Refusing to let her eat without pain. 

Kristoff grabbed her tiny hand. It was so small compared to his own. His family teased him about how he just continued to grow like a weed. It was then when he really noticed what they were talking about. Her palm pressed against his as he rubbed his thumb along her skin. 

“I love you, P. You know that, right?” 

Her eyes remained closed, but she squeezed his hand in response. A small smile touched her lips. 

“Love you too,” she whispered, voice barely there. 

After that, he remained silent. Kristoff leaned his head against her own. There weren’t any more words necessary. Just comforting her with his touch was all he could offer. When his parents returned to the room, the grief stricken gaze of his mother spoke volumes. 

  Pepper never returned home. She had good days and bad days. Sometimes she’d be up for venturing around the hospital. Kristoff picked her up, tugging the oxygen tank along with them as she chatted to him occasionally. The nurse snapped a picture of the two of them. He tried his best to smile, but Pepper simply waved. 

When she was younger, she was a camera hog. She’d jump in front of pictures with a huge, silly grin. But as her energy tanked… it was hard to see that smile at all. Kristoff tried his best to get the occasional giggle out of her as he tried to tease and joke like they did before. But… as the days went on, Pepper didn’t say much of anything anymore. 

She didn’t want to go anywhere. Instead, she’d lay in her bed all day and sleep. 

In an attempt to cheer her up, Kristoff read her fairytale books to her again. They hadn’t gotten to finish the latest installment because of what had been going on. And Kristoff would be damned if he didn’t finish that book for her. 

“‘The princess stepped into her royal duties and became queen. Her love stood by her, and the two married. And lived happily ever after. The end,’” he read. 

“The end…” she sighed. 

Kristoff glanced at her. She hadn’t moved from her laying position, eyes still closed. Her breathing was slow and even. 

“When you… meet your princess… know that I told you so.” 

A smile cracked along his lips. “Yeah?” 

“Mhmm. She’ll be pretty.” 

“You think so?” 

“Yeah…” 

  Pepper didn’t say much in the following days. She was sleeping soundly when her heartbeat slowed. Bulda noticed first. The thumps on the heart monitor became more and more sparse with every passing minute. 

His mother held her head, slowly petting her head. 

“You can let go, baby, it’s okay,” she whispered against her daughter’s head. 

Kristoff couldn’t stay. He stood and left the room as the heart monitor went flat. His mother’s sobs echoing through the room as he saw Cliff cross the room from the corner of his eye. He moved outside the doorway, leaning against the white brick. Kristoff slid down the wall, tucking his knees to his chest as he hit the floor. 

She was gone. 

  The funeral was a blur. It dragged on but went way too quickly all at the same time. He was numb. And silent. 

He was polite to those who shared condolences. It was nice to see his family, though the circumstances weren’t ideal. Why hadn’t they come to visit her more? Had they even cared about her at all? 

Her kindergarten class was there… along with her teacher and a few more staff members from the school. She’d hardly been there most of the school year. But Pepper was so excited for the days she’d gotten to attend. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to keep her happy. To keep her smiling. 

Her teacher spoke, his father said a few words as well. Kristoff couldn’t. His mother had asked, but he couldn’t do it. There was no way he could stand before all these people and mourn his sister in front of them. Frankly, it wasn’t for them. 

The time he spent with his sister was private. Not to be shared. 

He stood at the casket alone, gazing down at her small face. She just appeared to be asleep, and as much as he wanted to believe the false thoughts, he couldn’t. As much as he willed her to just wake up, she wouldn’t. 

He was an only child again. 

God, how he’d forgotten how lonely that was. 

Grieving people do strange things sometimes. He didn’t know why he felt compelled to take a sunflower from the display around her. Pressing it to his chest, he gave her one last look, accepting that this would be the last time he saw his sister in the flesh. 

“Let me know when I’ve found her, okay, P?” 

A chill went up his spine. 

  Depression was different than he expected. He didn’t know it came with anger and aggression. Didn’t know it meant he’d be in fights at school. Didn’t know it meant he’d push everyone around him away, including his parents. 

They let him have his space for a while, until Bulda tried to coax him back to life. 

She gave a tiny knock at his door before cracking it open. “Hey, hun. You awake?” 

“Yeah,” he murmured, sitting at his desk. 

“Studying for the SAT?” she asked. 

“Yep.” 

Bulda crossed her arms coming to stand beside him, leaning her weight onto the desk. “How do you feel about it?” 

“Dunno.” 

Sighing, she closed her eyes. “Okay,” she smacked his notebook closed. 

Kristoff reared back. “Ma, what the hell?” 

“That’s enough, Kristoff Bjorgman, do you understand me?” 

Fist clenching, he turned away from her and crossed his arms. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” 

“This! I’m talking about this!” Bulda gestured to him. “Do you even remember the last time you smiled?” 

Kristoff spared her a glance, but said nothing. He really didn’t want to hear this shit. 

“It’s been a year, Kristoff, don’t you think your father and I miss her too?” 

“I didn’t say you didn’t,” he muttered. 

With another sigh, she pinched the bridge of her nose. When he heard her sniff, Kristoff felt a rush of guilt flash through him. He didn’t want to hurt his mother. Or anyone else for that matter. But that didn’t mean he wanted to talk to people. He didn’t want people. 

“What is it? Why have you closed everyone out, hun? You never talk to your friends anymore. I haven’t seen you do anything but scowl for months. ” 

She was right, of course. He didn’t talk to anyone. It felt like too much. It hurt too much. Why should he be allowed to live a normal life without her? Why did he get blessed with a future when Pepper didn’t?

“I just… I don’t know.” 

Bulda stared at him, that worried expression only making him feel worse. “I feel like you do.” 

Kristoff slumped in his chair. “Why should I just… move on? Like she was never here?” 

“Oh, Kris… Moving on with life isn’t forgetting her. Moving on isn’t wrong. In fact, don’t you think Pepper would want that?” 

He stared down at his lap with those words. 

“I hope you find it… Happily ever after.” 

Yes, that’s what she’d want. She’d want him to live happily ever after. And yet, there he was. Denying himself what he promised his sister. 

“Yeah,” tears pricked in his eyes. 

Bulda moved from the desk, wrapping him in her arms. “It’s okay to feel, baby. It’s okay to miss her. You don’t have to shut everyone out.” 

“B-But what if I have someone I love again and lose them too?” 

Kissing his temple, she murmured into his blond locks. “Isn’t it better to have loved and lost… than to not have loved at all.” 

A sob escaped him then. Reaching up, he gripped her shoulders. “Please, help. I don’t--I don’t know what to do.” 

“We’ll get you better. Together.” 

  Therapy did wonders for him. Kristoff had no idea how liberating it was to get all of his emotions out of his mind and out into the open. Though, he still wasn’t fond of making friends or talking to people… he slowly was able to communicate again. 

When Bulda and Cliff brought Sven home, Kristoff had never felt happier. The companionship of the pup was all he ever needed. And God, he was grateful. 

He’d never admit it aloud, but that dog saved his life. 

                                                       o~o~o~o

  It’d been three weeks since he’d heard from Anna. There were no calls. No texts. They’d lost their snapchat streak… The guilt ate him alive. Yes, he should’ve just told her. But when Pepper had heard of another child dying of cancer, the look of horror on her face always stuck with him. God, he didn’t want to make Anna feel that way too. And in his effort to protect her, he only fucked up. 

He wanted her to forgive him so badly. When she pointed out the sunflowers at the park, Kristoff thought he knew. Thought that maybe she was the one. But fuck, he messed up. 

Despite how miserable he felt, Kristoff continued to push through. He went to the coffee shop, went to the jobsite, did what he was supposed to do. It was better to have cared--maybe even loved--for Anna than to have not had her in his life at all. 

He hated how petty he’d been when she was angry with him. Pulling that crap about how she didn’t tell him about her fiance? Of course, she didn’t. They’d only had a few dates. Weren’t  “official” yet. He wasn’t entitled to her dating history. But… Anna was entitled to his past. That he hadn’t told her about. Shit, she’d had every reason to be mad. There was an entire part of his life he’d kept from her. It wasn’t right of him. It wasn’t fair to Anna.

It wasn’t fair to Pepper. 

Damn, he was a fucking asshole. How could he mess up so badly?

As he wiped down the counter, the door chimed. Really? They were closing in four minutes. Was the need for coffee that urgent? Ryder had already started picking up the chairs for the day. 

“How can I…?” he glanced up, stunned to see Elsa Anderson standing before him. 

She gave a nervous smile with a half shrug. 

“E-Elsa? What’re you--wait. Uh. S’more latte? I mean, is that what you’re here for?” 

Waving a hand, Elsa brushed him off. “I might as well buy a drink since I’m here.” 

Kristoff nodded. “Y-Yeah, uh.” 

“But I need to talk to you.” 

Ryder walked over, tapping Kristoff on the shoulder. “Need some help?” 

“Uh, yeah. 12 oz S’more latte.” 

With a nod, his coworker headed to the machine. Thankfully, they hadn’t started the intense cleaning yet. 

Clearing his throat, Kristoff glanced away. “B-Before we talk, I just need to know if you hate me, so I have an idea about what type of conversation this will be.” 

She laughed, shaking her head as she handed Kristoff her card. “I don’t hate you.” 

He relaxed, putting in her total and swiping the card. “Oh, good,” he chewed his lip for a moment. “Uh, does Anna hate me?” he asked as he handed her back the credit card. 

“No,” Elsa said with another small smile. 

Kristoff’s shoulders slumped. “Thank God. I really messed up, Elsa. She has every right to--” 

Elsa held up her hand. “Hey, you don’t need to explain yourself to me. I get it. It’s just… Anna has spent her whole life being ‘protected’ by other people. She just felt betrayed that you would hide something from her.” 

Rubbing the back of his neck, he let out a guilty sigh. “She has every right to feel that way. I just--I didn’t want her to think that would be her outcome.” 

“I know. I know it’s just because you care about her, Kristoff. Anna knows that too.” 

Grinning slightly, he nodded. “Yeah, I… I really do. No one has ever made me feel the way Anna does.” 

Elsa placed a hand over his. “I want you to be with my sister, Kristoff. So, you made a mistake. Everyone does. Anna’s made plenty. I just--I had to remind her that your heart is in the right place. And she realized I was right. B-But she just… collapsed,” she said with a grimace.

“W-Wait, what?” he asked, leaning over the counter.

“She’s been emitted into the hospital. Her doctor said she just got overwhelmed, but they’re keeping her sedated and keeping her overnight.” 

Ryder, who had apparently been eavesdropping, slid the coffee to Elsa. Clapping a hand on Kristoff’s back, he looked worried. “You gotta go, dude.” 

“Woah, what? What about you?” 

“I can close up. Go see Anna.” 

Kristoff didn’t need to be told twice. The hospital wasn’t far, but he didn’t want to leave his truck behind. Elsa jumped in the passenger seat and they headed down the street. 

                                                         o~o~o~o

  He followed Elsa down the all too familiar halls. Being there brought up a lot of memories… a lot of feelings Kristoff hadn’t thought about in a long time. 

When they reached Anna’s room, Dr. Mattias emerged from the door. Kristoff assumed the stunned expression on the doctor’s face was mirrored on his own. 

“Kristoff?” 

Elsa quietly excused herself into the room, walking past both men with a hesitant smile. 

“Hey, Dr. Mattias.” 

“What’re you doing here?” he asked. 

He gestured to the door. “I’m here to see Anna. She’s my… well… not really--uh.” 

Dr. Mattias chuckled, raising a hand and shaking his head. “You don’t need to explain anything to me,” he paused looking over him. “Man, you’ve really grown since I’ve seen you.” 

“Um, thanks. I think.” 

“How are your parents?” 

Kristoff bobbed his head. “They’re fine. Ma is working at the pre-school, and Pop is still working odd jobs here and there since he retired early.” 

Dr. Mattias smiled. “That’s good to hear. I’m glad they’re well. What about you?” 

With a shrug, he glanced away. “I’m alright. Could be better, I guess. But I’m working at Adrendelle Roasts to make money while I’m training at the jobsite.” 

“Oh, you’re going into construction, huh? That’s suited for you.” 

He laughed. “Yeah, Pop said so too.” 

A silence washed over them. Kristoff desperately desired to cut the small talk. He just wanted to see Anna. 

Dr. Mattias seemed to mual over something before sucking in a breath. “Kristoff, I just want you to know that I did everything I could for your sister.” 

A sad small twitched to his lips. “I know.” 

“And there’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about her. If there was one soul I wish I could’ve traded my own for, it would’ve been that little girl’s.” 

Kristoff shook his head. “I know. But you’re here… and I’m glad. Because Anna needs you.” 

Dr. Mattias smiled with a nod. “Yes, of course. I won’t keep you then,” he held out a hand for him to shake. 

But Kristoff tugged the doctor in for a hug instead. Dr. Mattias was stunned, but the blond just patted him on the back. “I can’t thank you enough for what you do,” he said before pulling away. 

The doctor gave him another nod with an emotion Kristoff couldn’t quite read. Dr. Mattias gave Kristoff a tap on the shoulder before heading down the hall. 

Kristoff turned to the door, taking a deep breath before he walked in to see Anna lying on the bed. Seeing the tubes in her nose as she slept sent a familiar dread shooting up his spine. But it was okay, he assured himself. Anna was asleep intentionally. He had to remember that. 

He looked to Elsa who sat in a chair in the corner of the room. “Is it safe for you?” he asked. She had since put a mask on after entering the room. 

“Not entirely. Being exposed to an illness could send me in here myself for a couple of days.” 

Rubbing his palms, he glanced back to Anna. “You should go home. I can stay with her.” 

Elsa’s brows shot up. “Oh, no way. Kristoff, I can’t ask you to do that.” 

“I want to. I messed things up so badly… it’s the least I can do. Anna would want you to worry about your health too, you know? Anna can’t lose you too, Elsa.” 

The flaxen blonde twiddled her thumbs for a second before standing. “Okay, but I’ll be back tomorrow to get her.” 

Kristoff gave her a smile. “Alright. She’s in good hands, I promise. I--I want to make it up to her.” 

Elsa stood, giving him a small pat before walking to Anna. She stroked her head, glacning back up at him. “Are you sure?” 

“I can handle it.” 

“What about Sven?” 

“I’ll call my mom.” 

Sighing, she nodded. “Okay. I’ll see you tomorrow.” 

Kristoff waved as she walked out the door. Carefully, he made his way over to Anna and placed a small peck to her forehead. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered. “I’ll do better from now on.” 

He made his way to the chair and took a seat. He gazed out the window with a sigh. 

“You told me so, P. Just help me get this right…” 

[the-story-of-the-tucks]

Just breathe

(Alice and Alfred get to audition for a theater college! But what happens when Alfred starts to have a panic attack mid audition?

TW: descriptive panic attack

(I projected myself onto Alfred for the first time, it was fun. Shoutout to the West of words discord for screaming about theater kids! alice/alfred so much. I love every single one of y'all <3) 

Also posted on AO3 by @the_story_of_the_tucks

--

Alfred was sitting backstage while his best friend, Alice nailed her audition song.

Since they were little they always knew they would be actors someday. That dream grew into a reality when they started middle school and got into the theater program.

He remembers it like it was yesterday-

They were putting up a production of grease junior and the pair was so excited to be part of it. Sure they didn't get big roles since it was their first year but they fell in love with theater more than ever.

They started to get bigger roles until they ended up performing in the show Wonderland their senior year. Alice -of course- playing Alice and Alfred playing the white rabbit. Just like they have done so many times when they read the book.

He was so freaking proud of her for landing the leading role. Alice had an amazing voice and absolutely deserved everything.

Even now, she was on stage singing Whispering from Spring awakening to the judges who will determine if they get into this college or not.

That's why Alfred felt like he should run while he can. He did not consider himself as someone with stage fright since he could always perform in front of a crowd when he did his high school musicals.

But this was not a high school musical.

This was an audition that will determine his future. Will he get into the college of his dreams with her best friend? or will he fail at the audition and go to a normal college, leaving Alice behind and shattering his dreams?

He started to feel anxious a week before the auditions, everything became too real for Alfred.

This was not a silly high school audition were it didn’t even matter if he got ensemble or the fucking scarecrow from Wizard of Oz.

This was real life and had real life stakes. The teacher was not gonna take pity on him and cast him anyways! If he was not perfect in the audition he could kiss goodbye to his dreams.

So he started practicing a lot.

He read his song over and over again, sometimes staying past midnight and skipped meals just so he could study the lyrics.

He chose Tonight at eight from the musical She loves me. He knew it was a mouthful of a song but it also showcased his vocal range and acting skills.

“It's fitting since you always seem to be nervous about everything” Alice joked when Alfred told her which song he was auditioning with. At the moment they laughed about it but right now Alfred felt like throwing up from the nerves.

He just needed to calm down and concentrate on something else, how hard could it be?

Alice was still singing-

Her sweet but powerful voice filled the whole building and made Alfred´s heart melt. He could hear how much emotion she was putting on the song. She was not Alice at the moment; she was Wendla Bergmann, and she was fucking great at it.

-Listening... For the hope, for the new life— Something beautiful, a new chance. Hear, it's whispering, There, again…-

She held the last note at the end and then there was just silence. He heard her say her thank yous and then she ran backstage to Alfred´s arms.

“You did amazing!” Alfred smiled widely while hugging and spinning her a bit.

Alice laughed melodically “Thanks! I think the judges liked it too!” She was grinning like crazy, still having the rush from performing onstage.

They both stayed there, giggling for a few seconds as if nothing else in the world mattered but them. Then they hear Alfred's name called out on the speaker.

“Hallam, Alfred?”

He froze. He was not prepared for this! What was he even thinking? He was just going to turn around and get home just to not get humiliated in front of the judges.

Alice saw the look of panic in his face and held his hand. “Hey, hey-, you're gonna do great” she placed her hand in his shoulder to confort him “just don't get nervous, ok? you already practiced and you know everything by heart” she winked.

“Right” Alfred, nodded trying to convince himself “I’m fine- I’m not nervous at all-”

“Alfie, your hands are shaking”

“shit” Alfred held both of his hands at his chest and took a deep breath trying to calm down.

“You can do this” Alice smiled and squeezed his shoulder.

He can do this.

--

Alfred stood in front of the jury paralyzed by fear for what felt like forever but it was probably a few seconds.

“I- uh Hello” He cringed at how his voice sounded. “My name is Alfred Hallam and I will be performing Tonight at eight by the musical She loves me”

His hands were still shaking and he tried to crack his knuckles to cover it.

He squeezed his eyes shut for a few seconds and exhaled

He can do this

-I'm nervous and upset Because this girl I've never met-

He started singing, ok so far so good.

-I get to meet Tonight at eight-

He almost smiled, he was actually doing great!

-I'm taking her to dinner At a charming old cafe, But who can eat Tonight at eight?-

Alfred made the mistake of glancing at the judges' table and saw them writing something down in their notepads. shit.

Were they writing something good about him? something bad?

-It's early in the morning, And our date is not till eight o'clock tonight, And yet already I can see What a nightmare this whole day will be-

Maybe he had to get into the character a bit more? that's it! but he couldn't concentrate at all, his heart was beating too loudly and he felt the jury’s eyes burning holes at him.

-I haven't slept a wink, I only think Of our approaching tete-a-tete, Tonight at eight.-

'C’mon Alfred' he thought. 'Just fucking concentrate on the song and don’t think about the jury watching you, or your too loud beating heart, or the fact that your hands started shaking again, or-'

-I feel a combination Of depression and elation; What a state! To wait Till eight!-

Why did he feel like he was getting out of breath? did the jury notice? were they writing on their notepads again?

-Three more minutes, two more seconds, ten more hours to go!-

He felt the room getting smaller and hotter.

-In spite of what I've written, She may not be very- very-

He paused.

God, what was the word? his mind was too foggy to think and it was getting harder and harder to breathe.

“Mr Hallam?” One of the people in the jury asked “Are you alright?”

Was he? Alfred couldn't breathe at all. His hands were shaking and his heart felt like it was threatening to fall out of his chest.

“Mr Hallam, do you need a minute?”

“I uh-” He swallowed thickly, forcing himself to talk “I’m sorry-”

And with that he ran backstage.

--

Alfred managed to reach the stairs outside the theater and sit down.

His hand were still shaking and they were starting to feel numb. He tried to wipe the sweat that was dripping down from his forehead but he couldn't control his hands enough to do it.

And worst of all? He felt like there was and elephant sitting on his chest.

Alfred couldn’t help but repeat the moment in his head.

He choked in front of the jury who would decide if he went to the school of his dreams or not- He forgot a song he had known all his life and had been practicing non stop for at least a month-

All those sleepless nights were for absolutely nothing- The judges probably thought that if he got freaked out by a simple audition he will most likely get worse in an actual play or with any performance.

What was he even thinking? he’s never gonna have a future as an actor! he’d probably was gonna end up being thirty and working in an office while Alice wins her third tony award and he won’t even be able to attend to the ceremony because he’d have to do the office reports or else he’ll get fired and-

“Alfie?”

He heard a familiar voice and looked up only to face the one and only Alice spencer.

He wanted to talk, he wanted to tell her he was okay and that she didn’t need to worry or make a fuss about him but only choked sobs came out of his mouth every time he tried to explain.

“Hey hey it’s ok-” Alice tried to soothe him, she gently took Alfred’s shaky hand and squeezed it.

“Try to match my breathing, ok?” she started to inhale and exhale slowly and Alfred tried to follow suit.

They have done this many times when they were kinds, whether it be because he was having an asthma attack and couldn’t find his inhaler, a panic attack or he was just freaking out. He could guarantee that Alice was gonna be always by his side helping him breathe.

But it was not gonna be like that after college started, right?

But it was not gonna be like that after college started, right?

“I fucked it up” He whispered between shaky breaths “I- I got too nervous and I choked mid audition”

“I know” Alice just squeezed his hand tighter, eyebrows furrowed in concern.

“My future is ruined-”

“Hey, no its not” she said simply “We can go back and talk to the jury and explain you were having a panic attack”

“I-I can’t go back there! I don’t even know if they’ll even hear me and-”

“Alife” Alice looked directly at his green eyes “You’re probably not the first person who had a panic attack mid audition, they’ll understand”

“And if they don’t?”

“They will” she assured him.

Alfred was too tired to protest so he just limited himself to nod.

“After the other auditions finish we’ll go back and ask for another audition date, alright?”

Alice started ramble about her plan, it was kinda endearing.

“I don’t think i’m ready to go back just yet” Alfred said miserably

“I’ll go with you” Alice assured him “i’m not letting you face those judges alone, they’re scary”

Alfred laughed a bit “yeah, they are”

Alfred realized that no matter were they went Alice will always have his back and vice versa. It was relieving to know you have someone who will catch you if you fall and you’d have to catch them too sometimes.

They ended up talking to the judges together and agreed on scheduling another audition the next week, which gave Alfred a bit more time to go over the lyrics and prepare himself.

They both got their acceptance letters at the same time.

[amintyworld]

The Last Visit

Fandom: Miraculous Ladybug

Characters: Marinette/Ladybug, Adrien/Chat Noir, Emma Agreste, Louis Agreste, Hugo Agreste, Daniel Agreste, Juliette Agreste, Nicky Agreste.

TW: Implied Major Character Deaths, Dying, Sickness. (Let me know if I missed any!)

Marinette breathed slowly as she lay on the bed, looking out the windows with a smile. The pure autumn breeze swept through her greying locks, and she closed her eyes for a moment. "Beautiful day, isn't it Adrien?"

The room was silent. "Yeah, I thought so you silly kitty." The wind whipped the older woman's hair back and forth. 

"You know Hugo's a fighter now, on the front lines? He sends me letters everyday, to make sure I'd never worry. You know how I worry, cat."

She paused. "Louis took up the bakery - hopeless romantic, that boy. Clumsy, too." Marinette laughed. "Emma's settled down, got married a few months after we got the letter. I… I know you wanted to be there."

The older woman took a breath.

"It's funny, you know. You left so quickly, yet I know you're still here. I guess you kept your promise, kitty." She swallowed. "I'm sorry that you've waited so long for me. But, I'll get to see you soon, you know. The doctors can only do so much about age." A tear slipped down her cheek. 

She wiped it away with her finger slowly as the hospital doors opened, and she shifted in her bed to better sit in it. A nurse gave her a small smile. "Visitors, Ms. Agreste."

A small child ran up, jumping on Marinette, throwing their small arms around her neck. "Grandma!"

"Nicky!" An older woman, with long golden hair and blue eyes scolded the little tyke. "Grandma Marinette can get hurt easier than we do. Be careful."

An older dark-skinned teen with black hair and green eyes entered quietly, hands inside her jean pockets awkwardly, staring toward the floor. After the girl filed in a dirty blond haired boy with an earbud in, texting on his phone. He looked up and smiled at his little brother as he awkwardly tried to hug carefully.

"Sorry we're a bit late, Mom."

"No worries at all, Emma. I know you're very busy these days." Marinette said, smiling warmly at her daughter, and helping the smaller toddler down from the hospital bed. "Goodness, you're getting so big!" She said to Nicky, making the toddler smile, a few of his teeth missing.

"Momma says that I'm getting so big, that I need new clothes soon!" The tyke said, smiling once more to his grandmother.

"Oh really?!" Marinette said, giving the toddler a warm smile. "Hey, you know what? I think that there's some ice cream in the kitchens. Why don't you guys go grab some and leave me and your Mom to chat for a bit. My treat." 

"No, Mom, it's okay. You don't have to-"

"I insist." Marinette said. 

The older brother, Daniel, took the twenty dollars from his grandmother and gave a smile. Marinette smiled. "Tell Melissa I sent you, alright?" She put a hand to the side of her mouth as she whispered. "You'll get hot fudge."

Nicky's eyes were wide, chanting as he left the room, his brother guiding him out with a chuckle, their sister tagging quickly behind. "Hot fudge, hot fudge, hot fudge, hot fudge!"

Once out of earshot, Emma let out a happy sigh. "You're really good at spoiling them."

"What can I say, it's a talent." Marinette laughed. "How's Hugo and Louis?"

"I haven't gotten any messages from Hugo in a few weeks, and Louis…" They both sighed in unison, saying the next part together: "...still in love with that barista."

Emma's face turned serious. "Sorry Elliot couldn't come today, he's just so busy…" She trailed off. "Mom, remember how you and Dad met? How, Dad was in love with Ladybug, and you were in love with Adrien?"

"Yes, of course." Marinette said, looking at her daughter's focused face.

"How did you know?"

"What?" Marinette asked.

"How did you know you were in love with Dad?" Emma asked.

Marinette breathed, thinking. "Well… there was something about… about the way he was. When we wore those masks, we were us, truly us. I always knew that your father would be there." She paused. "Even after I'd rejected him over and over, he was still the same. He was my partner, and he was also my friend." She reached up to touch her earrings. There was no need anymore - but she still wore them, just because she felt as if she took them off, she'd be losing a part of herself. 

"Even if I hated him, even if the world was falling before us, even if I had caused it - he wouldn't leave my side. After the reveal, everything just locked into place. He had always loved me, even when I didn't love him back." She smiled. "I realized that if I didn't have that, if I didn't have him - I wouldn't know what to do."

She sighed. "I would… I wouldn't be able to carry on without him."

Emma looked to her mother, smiling. "Like, he was a part of you, and if you took that part away, you'd never be the same again."

"Yes." Marinette said. "Is… is this about Elliot?"

"No…"

"Emma Elizabeth Argeste." Marinette said sternly.

"He's just been in the office a lot lately, and I've just missed him. It's… it's nothing."

Marinette smiled fondly, cupping her daughter's cheek in her hand. "Honey, if you miss him, if you feel like that part of you is missing - that's love." Marinette breathed in a bit deeply and coughed for a while, in a coughing fit that rattled her body.

"You alright, Mom?" Emma said, clearly concerned. 

"I'm fine." She said. "Just old."

"You know what Dad said about going off to fight - how he was fighting to make sure that you got to live to see so many amazing things, to watch me, Louis, and Hugo grow." Emma said. 

"Seems everything he wanted came true." Marinette smiled. "Did you bring the miracle box like I asked?"

The faded ladybug spotted oval container was plopped on her hospital bed table. She opened the top flap and took out the two familiar boxes. "There's something coming, Emma. People are going to need Ladybug and Chat Noir again."

"What?" Emma said. "But… But how? And more importantly, who?"

"I have some ideas." Marinette said. "Tikki!"

The red and black kwami rushed out of Marinette's purse quickly. "Tikki, I… It's time." 

"What? Marinette, no!" Tikki said. "You… you can't!"

"You need to go to your new miraculous holder." Marinette said. "A new Hawkmoth could emerge at any moment, and we need to be ready." 

"Marinette!" Tikki said, crying, flying to her master's side. "You were the best Ladybug I ever had."

Marinette smiled. "You were the best kwami I ever had. Promise to help the kid?"

"Of course." Tikki said.

"Look out for the doofus. He's…he's a bit of a mess, and, after changing schools - he needs a friend." Marinette said, Tikki's small head pressed against hers as she reached for her earrings. "Goodbye, Tikki."

"Goodbye, Marinette."

Marinette quickly took off the earrings as Tikki vanished into the box. She slowly set the earrings inside, closing the lid.

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

"I won't be a good guardian, Mom! Please, pick someone, anyone else!" Emma cried.

"You will be a great guardian, Emma." Marinette said, holding her daughter's hand in her own. "Someone needs to look out for them, hm? I could think of no one better. They'll get over their heads - keep them safe, and keep them in line."

"But… but-" 

Marinette only smiled at her daughter. "You've got a pure heart and a good head on your shoulders. If Hawkmoth could be defeated once, he'll be defeated again. Find someone for the cat miraculous - good of heart, and kind - a sense of humor of course!" Marinette laughed. 

It seemed ages ago when she and Chat had finally recovered the miraculous, only to find it missing within a few days. It was a great tragedy, but Adrien had assured her they would get it back - all it took was to wait for the villain to appear again.

"I know that you can do this, Emma." Marinette said, cupping her daughter's cheek with a smile. "You are the best parts of your father and I - we're so proud of you. I'm sorry you have to work to fix my mistake, but I don't have much time left. I love you, and I believe in you." Marinette smiled, coughing for a bit before continuing, her voice extremely hoarse.

Marinette's smile was replaced with a stern look. "Now, go give that villian exactly what they deserve, okay? A nice smack to the side of the head would do nicely to knock some sense into those brains of theirs." Marinette said, making Emma giggle and smile.

"I promise, Mom."

"I love you, Emma." 

"I… I love you too, Mom."

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

As the visit was ending, Marinette was walking the family to their car when she fell on purpose, knocking into Daniel as he caught her and she quickly slipped the earrings into his bag. She had to admit, it was a bit of deja vu for her as she remembered Fu doing the same thing to her not too long ago.

"Oof, I'm so sorry, must just be my hip." Marinette said. Her grandson gave her a smile. 

"Be careful, Grandma." Daniel called. "We don't want you to take a spill. You should go rest up that hip though."

"Will do, Danny." Marinette smiled. She couldn't help but see so much of herself in her grandson - the determination, nervousness, awkwardness, the hidden confidence behind his eyes.

As everyone was in the car and driving away, Marinette said a silent goodbyes to Plagg and Tikki. Emma had tucked the miracle box under some cloth and crochet yarn determined to keep her promise to her Mom.

That was the last time anyone had seen Marinette before she had passed away a few days later, still staring out the window, smiling. Her thoughts were only to Adrien, and she could swear she saw a bright light with Chat Noir holding his hand out, with the biggest smile. 

"My lady, you're finally here-"

[noncanon-mcd-stories]

River Reaper Chapter 1

@ohbeetles asked for a garmau fic with requited love and, uh, yeah, looks like there’s a new AU on this blog. Introducing Flowerfell AU, and if you know what Flowerfell is, then you know what a rollercoaster of a ride this fic is gonna be. If you don’t, well, you’re about to find out. :)

Alternatively: This fic is inspired by Shy Siesta’s cover of Secret Garden 

(Next time you might wanna specify if you want fluff or angst)

tw for character death

Ru'aun had a mountain, cursed for generations. They say those who climbed it never returned. A thousand years ago, The Matron Irene had climbed it and since then, magic has laid heavily upon the soil, making the trees bloom eternally. 

Every year, someone was chosen to be casted into the mountain, and every year, the magic around the area grew, though not even the best Spellcasters could understand why. 

So when Aphmau woke up with her back hurting her and cheek and arms throbbing, she instantly knew what happened: she was thrown into Mount Ebbot for the magic to consume. With her hands still bound, she forced herself to stand and shuffle into the other room, where… A ghostly child was crying in the corner? 

“Are you ok?” She asked, making him jolt and look up at her in panic. “Hey, it’s ok! It’s just me…" 

"Another one?” He whispered, sounding tired, horrified and angry. “They just won’t stop will they? The others can barely survive down here as it is!” Blinking at the boy, her heart broke a little and she knelt down in front of him. “You’re… not scared of me?”

“How could I ever be afraid of a cutie like you?” she asked, smiling and tilted her head before holding out a hand. “I’m Aphmau, who are you?”

“I-I’m Malachi… you really are different from the others, aren’t you?” The woman looked at him, hand falling to her side once she realized he wasn’t going to shake it. “Some of the others, they try to attack everyone they see.”

“Some people aren’t very willing to be sacrificed,” she mumbled, head throbbing again. “I’m in Ebbot, right? The rumors about the Magic of the Mountain eating people, that’s false, right?”

The ghost looked hesitant before shrugging. “I’ve been down here for almost a thousand years and I don’t even know where everyone went. All I know is that if the Shadow Knights find you, they’ll take your soul and try to break the barrier with it. They need seven, but only have six, and it has to be a fresh sacrifice.”

————– 

She met a kind man, Corey, who was there one second, gone the next when she talked him through a fight he apparently had with his wife. It wasn’t until she had gotten into a fight with Malachi about grabbing a lost knife for protection that Aphmau realized that the boy was afraid and shaking so badly it was a miracle he didn’t phase from the physical plane.

After some prodding, he told her of Zoey, and how one day, there was a potions accident that resurrect him for only a short time. His second death (the first one having been from the fall) had been a major part of the caretaker slipping into insanity, and walking around unarmed was asking for death.

So after a few minutes, she tucked the dull blade into her belt and smiled kindly at the ghost. “I guess it’s a good thing I don’t plan on going anywhere just yet then, huh?”

————– 

Zoey was a blonde elf that had been the first sacrifice. The years of solitude, of having to watch the ruins for newcomers, it made her mad. Had she been lucid for even a second, she’d be horrified by how she was treating those who still resided in the ruins for some odd reason.

The two had only met because she and Malachi had gotten separated while she was buying food. When she had turned around, the elf was looking at her with wide eyes, her unfocused gaze on her telling the woman that she was seeing something else.

“Irene...?” the elf whispered, making Aphmau and the few people in the room take a fearful step back.

“N-No,” she stuttered out. “I’m Aphmau.” the elf frowned before letting out a knowing noise.

“The newest sacrifice. You’re very welcome to stay with me.” the elf’s deranged grin had Aph shying back. The elf turned around and walked away, but even after she left their sights, the small market area was still dead silent. Feeling too many eyes on her, Aphmau turned around and ran outside of the room, not watching where she was running and ended up going straight through Malachi-

-death, burning, screams of everyone she ever loved filled the air as blood red eyes smirked down at her, a familiar staff in hand-

“-mau!” Blinking, she shook her head and saw Malachi floating in front of her with a worried look on his face. “Oh, Aphmau, thank the matron you’re alright! I was so worried when you touched me; not many people can snap out of their Nightmare like that.”

“Their nightmare…?” she whispered, voice unable to grow any louder.

“Nightmare, y’know, like your worst fear? I-it’s my magic, the reason why I was given to the mountain. No one could touch me, so they decided I would be the best option…” Something was squeezing her heart painfully, and she felt something resolve in her.

“Then they were idiots, all of them,” she said firmly. “Magic or not, dead or not, you are an amazing kid, and they were blind not to see it.” the boy blushed and turned away, no where near fast enough to hide his tears.

————– 

Aphmau stared at the pie in front of her, unsure if she should eat it or not. Around her neck, the pendant Malachi possessed glowed dimly, a thin warmth over her skin, reassuring her that he was still there. Apparently Zoey didn’t like seeing him and forbade him from entering the house, she they had came up with the plan of him possessing the small heart shaped ruby necklace she had found in her pocket.

“Aren’t you hungry?” Zoey asked, having gotten something different to eat, claiming to not feel all that well enough to stomach pie. Aphmau hesitated before taking a small bite, the flavors clashing in such a way it… almost tasted wrong. Forcing herself to swallow, she gave the elf a grimacing smile.

“What’s, ah, in this?” she asked, poking a bit at the food inside.

“Oh, to get everything tasting right, I use a fire res potion!” she said this with a smile, but when Aphmau tried to smile back, the world blurred a little and her ears rang. The pendant grew brighter, flashing urgently. She tried to swallow, but her throat felt as if it was closing and as her head rolled back against the chair, the elf suddenly let out a deranged giggle. “Oh, silly me, I completely forgot! Fire res potions are poisonous to humans, hehe~!”

————–

Aphmau jolted awake with the smell of golden flowers invading her nose. Slowly sitting up, she barely had a chance to realize what happened when Malachi flew in front of her, looking at her in awe… and worry. “What was that…?” she whispered, and the ghost looked at her sadly.

“You’re a magic user.” he answered. “This is bad. The mountain’s magic, it’s barrier, it doesn’t react well to outsiders already having magic.”

Aphmau blinked. “I can’t be the first one to have had this happen.” At the boy’s nod, her stomach twisted into a knot. “What happened to the others?”

“You have a flower, just above your ear,” At the boy’s words, she reached up and felt one of the golden flowers she had landed on mixed in her hair. When she went to pull it out, however, it felt as if someone was tugging at her skin, horror welding up in her a second later. "Do you need help getting it out?"

"No!" She yelled, scrambling back. "Malachi, it-it's attached! To my skull! Is this what happened to the others? Did they just randomly started having flowers grow on them?!"

"N-no," the boys voice shook and her eyes snapped open, horrified even more at his scared expression. "They just got sick. But your magic, with how it rewinds time… I think this is it's way of fighting back."

————–

Aphmau avoided eating the poisoned food Zoey had, instead claiming to have a stomach ache and went to her borrowed room to lay down. She hadn't planned on actually falling asleep, but the warmth that the blankets gave settled a chill she hadn't realized she had and sent her fast into sleep.

She woke up in the bed of flowers and Malachi crying above her. 

Another flower had sprouted, slightly bigger and a few inches away from the first one.

————–

She woke up on the flower bed seven more times due to Zoey, six due to the others in the ruins and three times due to her own clumsiness. By round 20, she had accidentally lashed out at one of the inhabitants and watched in an awed horror as they crumbled to dust.

She gained a flower when she purposefully rewound time.

"Why did he crumble to dust?" She asked as her and Malachi wandered down the hall.

"Some of the people here are almost a thousand years old. The mountain's magic makes it to where once you live here, you don't age, but your body gets weaker as if you do. Poor guy was probably one of the first ones down here."

His words did nothing to settle her guilt as she pointedly kept her eyes away from the heckler.

Malachi didn't say anything as she purposefully avoided the mini-market for those next four goes.

————–

Finally, with 28 flowers beside her right ear and cheek, Aphmau found herself in front of a giant red and black door, a familiar rune painted on it.

"Please," she said to the angry elf. "Please let me leave!"

"You don't know anything about what's outside these doors! I refuse to let another person go walking to their death!" She snarled, and there was a surge of magic as fire was summoned into her hands. "If you want to get through, you'll have to kill me!"

No. Aphmau thought instantly, not realizing she had said it aloud until the elf faltered. "No more death." She continued, still in a cold tone that warmed as she spoke again. "No more death. Sometimes, you'll find that kindness is enough." 

The elf shook, a sad look in her eyes. "You'll be killed," she whispered.

"Maybe so, but it's happened before," she motioned to the flowers with a rueful grin. "I'm not afraid of dying. Please, let me see what's beyond the doors."

The elf hesitated before her eyes hardened. "No, I cannot allow you to leave. Not with the Shadow Knights roaming freely."

Shadow Knights? Aphmau thought, but was quickly forced to forget it as she yelled and jumped to the side, barely avoiding fire to her face. This continued, the woman barely dodging as the elf, tears slowly starting to stream down her face, continued to throw fireball after fireball.

"Why won't you fight back?!" The blonde sobbed as the woman fell to the ground to avoid another shot to the face, and when she looked up, the elf was on her knees, crying into her hands. "Why don't you fight…?"

"Because," she said, her voice low and hoarse. "I was raised to always be kind and to know when to pick your fights. I will never fight you, Zoey. I think that, perhaps those who are loneliest in the world are the kindest… what happened? What made you so mad?"

"I lost my sons," she whispered. "My children, my little Levin and Malachi. I couldn't save them… but I can save you."

"Loneliness takes a lot out of someone. I know how it feels, thinking there's no one in the world who hears or sees you and your suffering. But there is; there always is. I can't promise you that I will always be safe, but I will do my best. You can't keep me here forever Zoey."

"I suppose the ruins are quite small once you get used to them," the elf half laughed, looking up and slowly wiping the tears off her face. "If you do choose to leave… I have one request."

"Of course," she nodded, ready to hear it.

"Please, never return."

Well wasn't that a punch to the gut? Granted, she didn't know Zoey or the people here that well, the fact that she was even asked it… swallowing, the human slowly nodded. "I-I see… I suppose, then… this is goodbye."

"Farewell, and beware of the king called Zvhal. He will not hesitate to kill you if it means being free from his Shadow Knight bond."

Taking in the blonde's words, they tentatively hugged one another before the human turned towards the doors and slowly stepped out into a bone chilling blizzard.

[wrenarrior]

Rewind

TW: self-harm, suicide

September 18th @ 7:42am

“Maya, do you ever wonder why the leaves fall?”

“No, because it’s so simple. Leaves fall because it’s the natural order of things.” Lifting up her cup of hot cocoa, Maya took a sip of it before continuing, “Only children ever ask those questions. What’s more important is talking about who you’ll ask to homecoming this year.”

“I guess you’re right. It doesn’t really matter. Now, does it?” Kate picked up her own cup of coffee and took a big gulp before placing it back onto the table. “It’s nearly time to go. I promise we can talk more about homecoming at lunch today. I’m just not in the mood right now.

Maya smiled. “Sure. That’s alright with me. I’m just about done with my drink, so you can go on ahead and I’ll catch up with you in a second.” Once she made sure she had all her things with her, Maya stood up from the table with her empty cup in hand, ready to throw it away.

Luckily, the trashcan was on her way outside, and before long, she’d catch up with Kate. Their school was only a six-minute walk from the cafe, which made it a convenient place for them to hang out. In fact, the two girls had made it a daily ritual to meet up there every morning.

By this time, though, all of the other students would have left by now. Maya had made it into a joke about how she and Kate were always the last two students from Seacoast High School to leave the Eats & Treats Cafe. Except, this morning, it would appear that their title was stolen.

By a girl that looked like a mess, both physically and emotionally.

Her black eyes stared straight ahead, as if looking out into space, while tear after tear spilled down her warm, pink cheeks. Her long, black hair was in ruins, almost as if the girl had not slept for days. Her chewed-up and red lips were slightly parted like she was whispering something.

But the most unsettling thing of all was how her body shook, even when nothing was happening. You had to look very careful, but once you saw it, it was hard to unsee it. Almost like her whole body was vibrating in fear. Or maybe she was just cold. The girl wasn’t wearing a jacket.

And because of that, cuts and bruises were on full display for the whole world to see. Little cuts around her wrists, but those grew larger in size before ending just around her elbow. The bright red spots surrounding the cuts looked fresh, too, as if they had recently stopped bleeding.

Maya’s heart completely sank to the depths of the ocean. Seeing this young girl so beat-up and bruised made her want to do something. No, she had to do something. Something to make the pain go away. To help the poor girl who seemed like she had suffered enough already.

This young girl almost looked recognizable, too. Maybe someone from one of her classes. If she had more time to sit and observe, the girl’s name would have come to her mind. It was on the tip of her tongue, just barely out of reach. Her name started with an H, didn’t it? But what was it?

Out of nowhere, a shout interrupted her thoughts.

“Maya, get your ass over here! We’re going to be late!”

Perhaps she’ll try again another day. Now, it was too late.

September 19th @ 7:16am

“... are you even listening to anything that I’m saying?”

Maya blinked her eyes in response before picking up her hot cocoa. “Sorry, Kate. I just, I have a lot on my mind right now. What were you were saying? I swear I’ll listen this time.”

Sighing, Kate replied, “Forget it. You’re obviously too busy dreaming to talk to me. It’s fine, though. You just do whatever, and I’ll get back to reading about my future wife.”

A light smile graced Maya’s lips. It was adorable how Kate thought she’d be able to marry a fictional character one day. Just another of her quirks that made it great to be her friend. But Maya was not worried about that right now. She was worried about the girl from yesterday.

Unfortunately for Maya, she was nowhere to be seen.

Sighing, Kate placed her book down before looking up at Maya. “Are you okay, Maya? Look, this isn’t about homecoming, is it? Because if it bothers you, I can cancel on Amelia. I know it’s been our tradition to go to every dance by ourselves, and this is the first time that we’re not—”

Maya quickly interrupted, “Oh, god, no. I can’t ruin your special night, Kate. You two will probably end up making out.” Maya burst into giggles. “I don’t want to intrude, really.”

At the sound of that, Kate’s face flushed bright red. “Shush, you. It won’t happen that fast. Wait. Hold that thought. I think I see her. Do you mind if I go catch up with her? There was something she wanted to ask me, and I told her that before school would be the best time to do it.”

“Of course not. Now, go and see your girl!” Maya grinned. “You two are so cute together.”

Before Kate walked away, she gave an excited thumbs-up to Maya. Then she ran off to envelope Amelia into a big hug. It warmed Maya’s heart to see her best friend so happy, but at that moment, there was something more pressing on her mind. The girl from yesterday.

The issue bothered her so much that she found it hard to focus while writing in her journal. The one thing that always managed to calm Maya down was not working that day. Feeling restless, she closed her journal and put it away before surveying the crowd again, looking for the girl.

When her eyes landed on the table in front of her, Maya spotted a surprising sight. It surprised her so much that she blinked her eyes several times just to confirm that it was actually real, and it was. The broken and bruised girl from yesterday was back, and this time, she was looking at her.

Maya was not sure what possessed her, but in the next moment, she found herself waving and calling out to that girl. “Hey! You seem a bit lonely. Why don’t you join me at my table?”

The girl turned around briefly to look around herself before turning back and furrowing her eyebrows. Several moments of silence passed between the two. Then, quietly, she whisper-asked, “Me? Are you talking to me?” Her voice was so fragile, as if she was afraid of something.

Boisterous as ever, Maya replied, “Of course! I just adore the red ribbon in your hair by the way. I feel like we might have a lot in common, too. Now, please, join me. Let’s talk before school.”

Fortunately, the other girl listened, and soon, Maya had a new friend. While the two girls talked, Maya learned a lot about the girl, including her passions, interests, and fears. Then the two decided to walk to school together, both headed for the same classroom with the same teacher.

Most importantly, though, Maya learned the girl’s name.

It was Hope.

REWIND

September 19th @ 7:33am

“You’re late today.” Kate commented bluntly.

Maya looked down at her hands. “I overslept. Sorry about that.”

Bursting into laughter, Kate added, “Relax, silly. I’m just teasing you. Anyways, you know how I told you about wanting to ask out Amelia to homecoming?”

Nodding along, Maya asked, “Yeah? How’d it go? Spill all the details.”

“Well… she asked me out first! Right after school yesterday. My face went bright pink and everything. Now, I need to pick out a dress. Oh, god, and shoes… What am I going to wear?”

“I’m sure you’ll figure out something in no time.” Maya smiled. “You always do.”

“You’re right.” Kate brushed a piece of hair out of her face. “Enough about me, though. You still haven’t told me who you plan to ask. I mean, do you even want to go with someone? It’s okay if you don’t, though. You can tag along with me and—”

“Stop right there.” Maya rolled her eyes. “This is the first year that you’re going with your crush, and I’m not going to ruin it by being a third wheel, okay? If you two aren’t kissing by the end of the night, I’ll be so disappointed. So, really, please, don’t make me interrupt your fun.”

Kate immediately blushed. “Maya, thank you, but I’m too innocent to kiss her on the first night. Maybe we’ll hug each other at the end, but kissing is too intimate. Wait. Oh my gosh. I see her. She wanted to ask me something before school today. Will you be okay if I go?”

Maya nodded. “Now, go and see your future wife!” She laughed before reaching for her journal from her backpack. It didn’t bother her at all that her best friend ran off. It made her really happy to see that Kate was happy. She could only dream to have that kind of happiness, too.

There was still some time before school would start, and that would give her plenty of time to write in her journal. Writing in her journal every day helped to clear away her thoughts, and Maya always felt better after filling up a whole page in it. It was like talking to an old friend.

Dear Journal,

Kate and Amelia are finally getting together! We knew this would happen, remember? And what was that ship name I came up with? Hm… it was Kamelia, I think. Seriously, these two are so cute together so I am really happy for them. I’m happy that I’m Kate’s friend, too.

There are just so many reasons to be happy, aren’t there?

Two people engaged in a very loud conversation nearby took Maya out of her thoughts. Glancing up from her journal, she scowled slightly. But as she overheard what the two were saying, the scowl left her mouth. In its place, a gasp appeared as a silent tear rolled down her cheeks.

“What are we going to do?”

“I don’t know. You keep asking me that.”

“Adam, your little sister is missing. We have to do something!”

“Just give me a moment to think about this, okay? It’s not my fault.”

“Please, Adam. I don’t give a fuck whose fault it is. Just do something!”

“Just shut up, Noah. I’m already stressed enough as it is. Stop yelling at me.”

“But she bought a coffee here less than an hour ago. Where could she be now?”

Somehow, without asking, Maya knew exactly who the two boys were talking about. There was no one else that came to this shop who would go missing except her. Everyone else seemed happy. Aside from a few others, the mysterious girl was the only one to come alone.

And then, it came to her. When she arrived late, she caught sight of the girl just outside the corner of her eye. If she wasn’t so distracted with her own life, she might have asked the girl to join her. Maybe they could have become friends, too. Except now, it was too late.

Unless a miracle happened and the girl was found.

Closing her eyes briefly, Maya wished that the mysterious girl would be happy and that somehow, someone would find where she had vanished so the two could be friends. And then, when she realized it was time to walk to school, she silently packed up her things and left.

September 22nd @ 7:04am

While waiting for Kate at the cafe, Maya’s phone buzzed.

I’m staying home today because I threw up last night. I’ll see you on Monday! xoxo

Pocketing her phone again, Maya reached over to grab her journal. Since it was Friday, she hoped that the weekend would give Kate enough time to recover. The days she was absent from school were a bit duller in color, but Maya always managed to find a way to survive.

Dear Journal,

Kate is at home sick. I feel so bad for her. Maybe I’ll take a soup to her house and visit her later. It might be nice to have another movie marathon at her house. I really enjoy spending time with her. I want to make sure she knows how much I appreciate her and her friendship.

This is a bit random, but I see too many sad people lately. I mean, sure, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of being sad, but there are too many reasons to be happy! Hot cocoa. Warm cookies. Best friends. Hugs. Sprinkles. Ice cream. Cute dogs. Cute kittens. The smell of a new book…

I could go on and on. To be so sad, though, that is something that I might never understand. Because as suckish as things can get, it’s only temporary. Might as well make the most out of the cards you’re dealt. If you spend all your time upset, you’ll never get anything done.

Just like a few days ago, two voices interrupted her journaling again.

“Did you hear what happened to Hope?”

“You mean that girl that killed herself? Yeah, I know.”

“It’s so sad, isn’t it? I mean, I could have stopped it.”

“But you didn’t. Face it, Alexis, no one liked Hope.”

“Well, aren’t you a class-A douchebag?”

“Shut it, honey. You like it.”

At that moment, everything clicked. Somehow, Maya had finally realized the answer to the question Kate asked her earlier that week. Before, it had seemed like such a silly thing to ask, but put in the right context, it was deep and meaningful. Something worthy of being remembered.

“Maya, do you ever wonder why the leaves fall?”

Quietly, she whispered the answer to herself. “Without something to hold onto, like hope, things fall apart. And for leaves, there is nothing to hold them together. Just like Hope, they fell.”

[March 2017]

[acrobaticcatfeline]

Logan Alastair and the Slytherin Curse (the Hogwarts AU)!!!

Word Count: 3391

TW: Oof, ok so, bullying, violence, blood mention, bruises, um, its implied that Patton can see through invisibility spells and has more understanding of things than he should which might be a squick(is that the right term?), IDK Patton just knows... a lot more than he should. I think that’s it? let me know if there’s anything else!

Notes: Here it is!!! God I swear the headcannon had like thirty notes up until a few days ago and then it exploded!!! It’s at 206 notes now heck I’m glad this is something yaller excited for! I hope you enjoy reading this as much is I enjoyed writing it!!! This is the first half of the “intros”, once I’m finished introducing at least Virgil, we will be up into the 3rd year and we’ll have some shenanigans of the boys just being boys!

Pairings: nothing... yet. some slight slight hints at logince at the end? eventual logince and moxiety and maybe more, IDK yet if I’m adding more characters.

Summary: “you are a disgrace to this house. The sorting hat has made its first ever mistake it seems, good to know.” Logan Alastair didn’t choose to be a wizard, are you kidding me? He wants to be back at home with his dogs and parents and dealing with normal bullies, not ones that could kill you with the wave of a hand! This is all way too much at once, but maybe things will get better with a few friends...

“you are a disgrace to this house. The sorting hat has made its first ever mistake it seems, good to know.”

The snarling replies from every person at his house table caused the boy to cast an invisibility charm and run to his common room. He felt the gazes still, likely from the house ghost, as he hid on the other side of the stone wall. He was lucky to have overheard a Slytherin mention the password, otherwise he would have probably flung himself into the lake. He flicked his wand and his belongings appeared on his bed. He sat on the floor, casting an illusion spell that lasted much longer, pulled out his spell book, and picked up his new owl, affectionately named merlin. He held the bird close as he read through his book, practicing different spells he saw as simple enough that any pure blood would know. He had always been a bright kid with a passion and speed for learning. On the train here he had hidden in an empty carriage and been practicing different spells that could be used for defense and very simple attack spells.

He had no disillusionment that this new school would be free of bullies, and after getting sorted he already wanted to leave and sleep in his own bed and hug his dog. He should have pulled a “harry potter” and asked the sorting hat to keep him out of Slytherin, but he had hidden and saw no need until he had already gotten sorted.

Now, Logan Alastair sat hidden in a veil of illusions so he could read his books in silence. He traded focus from his spell book over to his history book. He enchanted it quickly to search for passages about Slytherin. The first bit of information he got was about Salazar, telling stories of his hatred of muggles and ‘mud bloods’ as they called them. After a quick search he realized just why his housemates shouted this at him. He brushed it off soon after, looking at the dark tinting of his skin and grimacing, didn’t seem far off from what people at home said about him. It seemed much less hurtful than what some muggles had called him before. Regardless, he continued through the book, smiling fondly at the fact that merlin, the famous wizard merlin, was a Slytherin true of heart. He read about Severus Snape, and while he seemed like less of a genuinely good person and more like a selfish jerk that just so happened to not be the absolute worst, it was nice to see instances of not evil cruel Slytherin’s. He then traded focus yet again to a recent history of Hogwarts, and the battle of Hogwarts told by survivors. He did the same spell, getting far more positives than before. It told of less well known Slytherin’s that did good in the end. Regulus Black, Andromeda Tonks, Draco Malfoy, Astoria Malfoy, so many that had shady roots that redeemed themselves in more ways than one during the battle and onwards. He read a small bit on Isolt Sayre who had a short blip saying they were a direct descendant of Slytherin but had fled to the new world after escaping her murderous relative.

This of course led him down a rabbit hole, searching for the name in any other book, and after a few minutes he found that she had been the one to institute the school of Ilvermorny and had broken the pure bloodline by marrying a muggle. Well he had a new role model geez… he made it to the magical beast’s textbook and smiled as he recognized the authors name as a famous Hufflepuff who was known for defeating Grindelwald, a terrifying purest the likes of Voldemort but you know, he had a nose and skin pigment. He had always read exceptionally fast, it was the thing that occupied his time in his youth, as he couldn’t make friends very easily. He thought it had been hours when the rest of the Slytherin students made it up, however he had only been there for approximately half an hour. He quickly stashed his things and sat on his bed, drawing an illusion of him sleeping as a curtain on his bed. He looked through and saw people actively find a bed as far from his as possible, and he had no problem with that. He sat watching closely as everyone set their bags down and luckily for everyone, everyone ended up 2 beds away from him at least. Logan felt his stomach grumble and cast disillusionment on himself and dashed out of the common room quickly. He made it up to the kitchen area soon, knowing that he would be able to get past the house elves easily. He went to grab food only to get swatted by… something. He turned over and saw a boy who looked his age with big round glasses nearly falling off his face. The boy has curly red hair and his eyes are ocean blue behind the red frames he wore. He wore a yellow and black jumper over a pair of black sweatpants with the Hufflepuff mascot across its leg. Another look at their face and he saw freckles scattered everywhere and he was surprised he hadn’t noticed them sooner. However, he seemed to have taken a while to respond as the boy crossed his arms and pouted at him.

“uhm… you can… see me?”

The boy rolled his eyes somewhat playfully and gave a grin at him. He changed his posture to a more relaxed one, putting his thumbs in his pockets as he answered.

“well of course I can silly! You’re just slightly glittery! Why, am I not supposed to see you?”

“well, no? no you’re not, this is a chameleon spell I'm supposed to be blended in with the environment no one should be able to see me!” he got grumpy and shed the charm, glaring at the annoyingly taller student.

“oh well geez I dunno! Oh, hey you’re not glittery anymore!!!”

“did I do the spell wrong? Does this spell only make me less corporeal? Oh gosh I need another cloaking spell oh god my housemates will see me, and they’ll kill me what was I thinking? Maybe, maybe there's another train out? I can just go home to my dog and I wont have to do this magic stuff it’s not worth it I didn’t want this I wanted to grow up like a normal kid and see my parents everyday and go to school with normal bullies, not ones with literal death machines the size of a pen why did I come this is stupid I bet this isn’t even real maybe if I just go to sleep Ill be back at home-”

“hey kiddo, calm down! I uh, I don’t know how to help you out, uhhh, here, let’s get you some food and get you sitting down somewhere so you can breathe. Come on kiddo lets get you some food.”

After stacking a plate sky high with food, the boy hands Logan the plate and pulls out his wand, tapping on some barrels then causing one of them to fly open. The boy looks towards Logan again waving his wand at the plate and chants ‘ebublio’ to which the plate gets surrounded in a bubble. He grabs it from him and beckons Logan as he hops into the barrel. Logan, who now has his food on the line follows, somewhat hesitantly. They reach the end of the passage and the boy turns yet again and waves his wand this time at Logan, chanting the word ‘colovaria’ and when Logan looked back at his robes, he was shocked to see he wore Hufflepuff colors.

“sorry, it’s a precaution. No one from another house has ever come inside the Hufflepuff common room and if word got out that some year one kid let one in, I would be done for. Anyways, sit on down kiddo, anywhere you feel like it, though, the couches are super-duper comfy.”

Logan honestly had no idea what to do with the last few minutes, so he did as instructed, and giggled softly as the boy dramatically popped the bubble. He grabbed a piece of bread off the top and takes a bite, eyes widening in awe at the good taste. After getting over the initial shock he looks at the boy curiously.

“what's your name?”

The boy giggled heavily and smiled a big toothy grin. Logan felt slightly bad about the fact that he automatically noticed the slight gap in his teeth. He fiddled with his bright red frames and bowed dramatically.

“where are my manners!!! Hello Logan, I am Patton Scamander!!! The one and only!!! Pfft I sound silly, don’t I? anyways yup yup I'm the 4th generation of Scamander hufflefluffs!!!”

Logan stared at him blankly for a good few seconds before his eyes finally widened in realization.

“wait, you’re related to Newt Scamander? Isn’t he the one who”

“yup! He wrote fantastic beasts! And apprehended Grindelwald!!! Oh, and my mom is Luna Lovegood! She’s a hoot and a holler let me tell you, she thinks I'm quirky!!!”

Logan was in disbelief. This kid was the son of famous Ravenclaw wizard Luna Lovegood. And the great grandson of newt Scamander the magizooligist. Granted he literally only learned all of this information today, but he had a general idea that Grindelwald was a magical Hitler and thus made anyone involved in his capture war heroes and at least back home he was told to respect war heroes for defending their freedoms and yada yada, Logan was rambling.

“wait, that means your mom knew Albus Dumbledore!!! I uh, I only found out about him today, I only found out a lot of stuff today, but wasn’t he like”

Logan wasn’t able to form words for what he had been trying to convey and started vaguely gesturing and Patton just nodded and agreed. After finishing his food, he got up and poked at the entrance, trying to figure out how to leave.

“aw, leaving so soon Lolo? We were just beginning to become friends!!!”

“uh, well its late and we do have class tomorrow and I should probably sleep…”

“well can’t you sleep over? We have plenty of time to get our books between breakfast and our first class! Speaking of which, what's your first class?”

“uhm, well I guess I can? I dunno… um, when did we get our schedules?”

“oh, we don’t get them until tomorrow technically, but I have a pretty general idea of what I have, I guess. Was just wondering if you did too!”

“oh, no I uh, I don’t even know what classes there are. I didn’t know magic existed until today.”

“oh!!! Oh… oh you poor muggle born got sorted into Slytherin I'm so sorry!”

“speaking of which, what is the differences between each of the houses?”

“oh geez, uh how do I explain this… ok so my house is Hufflepuff! Hufflepuffs are in general, hard workers, who are dedicated patient and loyal! We are known for being just and true and our motto is ‘do what is nice’! We’re also great finders! Ravenclaws are smarty pants!!! Wisdom, intelligence, creativity, cleverness and knowledge, that’s them basically, they value brains over brawn! Their motto is ‘do what is wise’. Gryffindors are brave, adventurous, loyal, courageous, daring and chivalrous, they’re the storybook heroes! Their motto is ‘do what is right’. And Slytherin’s… well they have good qualities! Not all of them are bad! Obviously, because you’re really nice!!! Ok so they’re generally cunning, resourceful, ambitious, intelligent, and determined and they’re natural born leaders! They love being in charge, but they’re often arrogant and prideful, their motto is ‘do what is necessary’. The reason they get a bad rep is because many dark wizards are alumni from that house. It’s also a stereotype that all Slytherin’s are pure bloods. Its not far from the truth but anyone can be a Slytherin. I mean even harry potter fit into the house! The only reason he was a Gryffindor was because he begged the hat for anything else because Draco Malfoy made a bad impression on him. Slytherins are not bad, I feel a need to emphasize this. I feel bad for you because the current members of the house are less than savory. They aren’t evil, but they’re certainly not very nice. And it sucks that your first experience with wizards is them calling you names and hiding under the covers until the sun goes away.”

“heh that was very specific…”

“you’re a rather easy read Logan, you’re very interesting nonetheless!”

“um. Ok? Thanks, I think?”

“you’re positively welcome!!!”

Months pass, and Logan has picked up the habit of spending nights with Patton in the Hufflepuff commons. At this point in the year, late April, he’s already gone home for visits twice, and he’s contentedly walking back to the Hufflepuff commons after a walk through the library.

Of course, him being who he is, he notices a fight in the corridor. All he can see at his vantage point is green and red, a punch to the face and the greens laughing. Of course, the Slytherin’s were torturing innocent students again. He ran towards them and yelled, waving his wand and shouting ‘stupefy’ leading the two Slytherin boys to fall over. He swished his wand at the Gryffindor in front of him, saying ‘wingardium leviosa’ before booking it to Hufflepuff quarters.

He’s surprised to make it all the way there without getting caught, though the pictures on the walls can talk and… he might’ve passed Severus Snape and he did not want to be in the open when headmaster McGonagall heard about it. She’s a Gryffindor after all, she might get the wrong idea.

No no, he would say, no I wasn’t the one to knock him out I swear, it was two of my housemates who I don’t know because I'm terrified of them and that’s why I took the Gryffindor kid to my friend who knows healing magic and no its not a Hufflepuff, sorry I don’t know there house of course not because I didn’t go into the Hufflepuff commons, no ones been in the Hufflepuff commons, of course it was a um Ravenclaw yeah it was a Ravenclaw cuz they’re smart and would know healing magic, I mean they do know healing magic, of course I wouldn’t make a bet on maybe heheh yeah so in conclusion I'm sorry please don’t expel me miss McGonagall I did nothing wrong!

Yeah that wouldn’t work in the slightest. Hopefully he was fast enough that Snape didn’t see his face. Or maybe he wouldn’t tell because he was biased toward Slytherin’s. Let’s hope. Either way at the moment Logan had to enter the code for the Hufflepuff dorms as quick as possible because he did not want this Gryffindor to wake up and panic. He wordlessly changed the color of both their robes before jumping in the barrel.

“Patton? Patton there might have been an incident?”

“Comin Logi-bear!!! Ooh geez what happened!!! Logi you know fighting’s bad, how’d you end up in this situation?!?!?! Oh, give him here, oh I know him the poor thing looks half dead!!! Come on kiddo we’ll fix you right up!”

Patton grabbed the floating boy and carried him to the couch. He ran back and forth, grabbing bandages, ointments, elixirs, ice, anything and everything to make the boy less in pain. He set a bag of ice on his face, the spot Logan saw him get punched, put ointment on a cut on his lips and one on his eyebrow, and poured a little bit of the elixir in the boys’ mouth. He then rolled up his sleeves and checked out his arms, finding quite a few breaks of skin and bruises, indicating possible fractures. Patton looked over at Logan before looking back towards the arm he was bandaging.

“so, what happened lo? He’s a wreck, I doubt you could’ve done this if you wanted to!”

“why do you always assume the worst in me?”

“I don’t! I usually assume the best in you, but I prepare for the worst. Worst case scenario isn’t you getting grumpy this time! You’re not this strong, and you usually realize your mistakes sooner, you wouldn’t have caused this much damage before your conscious weighed back in. Really lo, it’s obvious.”

“I'm going to ignore your oddly astute conclusion in favor of defending myself. A couple of other Slytherin’s were ganging up on him and I was on my way back from the library when I bumped into them. I unfortunately have a moral compass-”

“that’s me!!!”

“-and I stupefied the lot of them, and grabbed this one who was knocked out, likely due to the impact on his cranium, the only actual hit I saw thrown. I imagine the two were cruel enough to continue attacking him even if he was unconscious on the ground. So, I brought him to you. If its of any importance, he’s from Gryffindor.”

“oh yeah, no I know who he is Logan, he’s a friend of mine, Roman Weasley. With the Weasley name I wouldn’t doubt any of it. The same people in your house that hate you hate him for the same reasons. Weasleys are blood traitors, willingly involving themselves with muggles, muggle borns, half-bloods, the whole nine yards. Cedrella black was disowned for marrying a Weasley, to put it in perspective. Their family is part of the sacred 28, the list of all currently completely pure-blooded families. For the most part all the families are Slytherin predominant but there's still the Weasley’s and Longbottom’s, as well as some others I can’t list off the top of my head, that defy that rule. Of course, the Slytherin’s make the biggest deal out of it, but anyways. Its good you brought him he is worse for wear the poor thing.”

Patton waved his wand over the boy, Roman’s, face. Soon after, his eyes slowly opened, and soon after that he was flailing upward in panic, falling off the couch in attempt to escape a perceived threat. Once he fully recognized the situation, he let out a deep sigh and laid on the floor.

“Patton you really mustn’t do this to me I have enough nightmares of people in my face without waking up to it! Where am I even, I don’t recognize this part of Hogwarts.”

“sorry bout that Ro! Was just worried about you! You’re in the Hufflepuff common room!”

“huh. You know when you said it was next to the kitchen, I expected it to smell more like food.”

“I expected it to smell like weed but apparently wizards get high in other ways…”

Roman turned to look at Logan with an odd stare.

“what weed? Gillyweed? Snakeweed? Also, why? I mean I know the best herbology students are usually Hufflepuff but-”

“no not- ugh how do I say this, its, it’s a hum-mor-muggle thing. Its actual name is something different, but it’s a… it’s a bad thing that people can eat and smoke, but it makes them really hungry afterwards. It doesn’t matter.”

“that sounds weird. You’re weird, who are you? How do you know Patton?”

“I know everybody!!!”

“precisely that. I have become friends with Patton. It’s also why you’re here instead of having my housemates still attacking you like big jerks.”

Roman stares blankly at Logan and Logan questions why the boy’s cheeks redden.

“oh. Uh, thanks then. Uh, I should probably be going I have class, but um, what's your name?”

“Logan. It was a pleasure meeting you Roman”

“uh yeah, you too-”

“hold on Ro drink this! It’s a painkiller, it’ll help make sure the bruises and cuts don’t hurt.”

“oh, thanks popstar! Quite nice of you!”

He drank the elixir and gave Logan an odd look before absconding to class. Logan didn’t understand this, and he also didn’t understand the warm feeling in his own cheeks, or the smug look Patton had on his face. He didn’t quite understand what was going on, but he knew enough to know that he didn’t want to know more. At least, not right now…

Taglist: @fivebyfive-finebyfive @fandoms-winkitywonk @thennevermind @the-shipper189 @confinesofpersonalknowledge @bruntriceballs @creativity-killed-thekitten @crookedlyoptimisticdestiny

Let me know if you want to be tagged in my writing!!! Or if you want to be taken off my list!!!

Thank you for reading I will see you later ladies lords and nonbinary royalty!!!

[archekoeln]

myosotis

notes: hanahaki au x vacation prompt.

my entry for the halloween elforum fic thing. 

disclaimer: tw vomitting

characters: elesis, harnier, ventus, the priestesses, elsword  

They’ve all been tired lately, and how couldn’t they be, stripped bare from countless fights and invasions. Even her, the Red Knight, while thinking of her role in Elsword’s life as he continued to grow from a runt to a capable person, wanted nothing more to put her worries to rest, put her body far from training and fighting and terror. Just for a moment, a second even.

When Aisha proposed a vacation - to take it easy for a while, forget their troubles for a while - Elesis found herself wanting to visit Elrianode. It was odd that she would go there, of all places, when everyone else drifted towards Sander or Ruben or Hamel.

But they let her go alone anyway. Elsword had asked her why, before she left. She said something about a feeling. She didn’t really know. She also told him not to worry about her, grasping his shoulder comfortingly.

"I’ll be fine. Don’t worry, don’t worry!"

Elesis found herself at the very edge of Elysion, steps away from Elrianode's entrance. She waited.

Elrianode eventually let her in.

Her time was spent talking to the priestesses, trading stories and beliefs. They were still there, all of them, along with the El Masters. Along with the El Lady. They tell her about the antics that occurred between the masters, as silly as it sounded. They tell her about themselves, about the world. Elesis laughed at everything, easing up to her surroundings. It was simple to do so. Everyone was so accepting, thankful for the El Search Party's help.

They didn't ask why she was the only one there.

At the behest of an energetic El Lady, Elesis visited her room.

They talked through the night, an abundance of silly stories filling the silence. Elesis shared her experiences to Harnier, even as the latter told her that she knew. But she listened anyway, giggled when she found something funny, frowned when it wasn't as funny.

There was something bewitching about the way Harnier turned towards Elesis, melancholy present in her eyes. Elesis noticed, and the thing she thought to ask in Harnier's room, alone with the El Lady, was where Master Solace was. The almost goddess had laughed at that, saying he's at Elysion. Something about apologizing. Something about getting back what was lost. Something, something that Elesis forgot after hours of sharing trivial and not so trivial things.

They forgot to sleep, but it was okay. The morning came with the sun, even with the absence of the Sun Master.

And with that morning, it started. It felt like nothing at first. Felt like a fly landing on skin, shifting against pores. But it persisted, and suddenly, there was an itch in Elesis' throat, insistent, ardent - and when Sasha gave her a glass of water, she greedily drank everything until the last drop. The look she got from the priestess and from the El Lady was nothing short of concerned, but she assured them that nothing was wrong.

"It's okay, I was just thirsty." Yes. That must be it. That could only be it.

Harnier flashed her a smile. Tucked a strand of hair behind an ear. "That's good. Drink some more if you need to."

The itch disappeared.

It started again when Elesis entered their shared common room, in a house far too large for ten people. It wasn't actually a house, but it functioned as one, so she supposed that the word fit perfectly.

She found Artea carrying a tray of freshly baked treats, with Ignia and Anduran behind her. It almost looked like Ciel lording his cookies over Lu and Add, which Elesis found hilarious. But she didn't laugh in response to that, couldn't, not when she felt the itch again, throat in mild agony as Harnier walked past, stopping to pluck a treat from Artea's tray ( at the indignant reaction of both Ignia and Anduran ).

Elesis' first instinct was to flee ( but why? ), as her throat constricted on itself and before a flurry of coughs could catch the attention of the other inhabitants of the room.

Too late.

Harnier moved past the priestesses to stand by Elesis' side. The knight was grateful even if the coughs only worsened ( because of? ). Harnier pressed a hand on Elesis' back, rubbed it gently, soothingly, cooing with each second. She asked for water from the priestesses and they complied. Elesis watched all of this unfold, blinking furiously, shame written on the edges of her mouth. Embarrassment.

Water satiated the itch, but she could feel it bubbling again, craving release. Elesis excused herself and returned to her room, waiting for it to come.

It never came.

A week passed. Elesis hadn't thought of going home yet. She hadn't coughed again after the last time.

But she also hadn't seen much of Harnier.

"She went to Elysion," Gloria said, "Checking up on Master Solace. She'll be back later, I think."

That was good, wasn't it? She loves Solace. She misses him.

The itch started to squirm within her lungs, at the thought. Elesis said her thanks to Gloria and left to go outside. A little bit of fresh air, or maybe she should've gotten a glass of water. She didn’t get that far when it turned into full-blown coughing, pain racking through her lungs, clawing their way out. Elesis doubled over, a hand covering her mouth. She felt something in it. Spitting, palm wet - it smelled like copper, tasted like copper.

When she checked, there was blood on her hand... and a small flower petal.

Blue. She blinked, crushing it in her hands. She needed water. She also needed to get away from there.

She didn’t know someone was watching her.

Harnier came back with Solace.

The coughing only got worse.

The petals only continued to multiply.

Master Ventus dropped by her room one afternoon.

"You don't need to hide it from me. I know."

His voice was soft and there was no judgment, just a quiet prodding. He sat there, silent, like a lamb, waiting, waiting, waiting until Elesis couldn't keep it to herself anymore. No judgment, no nothing - just confirmation - and when she nodded, he felt the air around them grow lighter. A burden lifted from her shoulders.

He understood. He understood completely because he didn't recoil in disgust, or shock, or even fury. Somehow, Ventus understood what was happening to Elesis, and somehow, Elesis found it in her to share what was happening.

The book he had with him was thick, cover worn from decades of use. Ventus opened it, flipping through pages. The smell was abundant, musty and old, aged with knowledge and time. He pushed it towards her, pointing at a particular paragraph.

"Hanahaki disease," he murmured, looking at the knight, something glinting in his eyes, "a disease born from one-sided love, where flowers grow in the afflicted’s lungs." He paused, a hand covering the graphic representation of a person drowning in lilies in the next page. "In its own way, it sounds romantic. Until it kills you, that is." The... joke, if it could be called that, hung awkwardly between them but it made Elesis smile all the same. He coughed. It lacked the wheezing Elesis had gotten used to.

She looked up, made a motion as though to explain... everything. But she couldn't really, so she just sighed, said, "I don't know. It just happened, when I got here.", with as much honesty as she could. She didn't sound like herself, the confident commander of the Red Knights, the self-assured older sister of Elsword. She sounded tired, sad, guilty. That’s right. She sounded guilty most of all. The feeling coiled in her throat, almost teasing, and she can’t help but wish it was Harnier in front of her now.

But that would’ve made her guiltier. But that would’ve coerced the feeling to grow even more.

At first, she tried to avoid Harnier. Spent more time with Ventus, with the other priestesses. Explored what she could of Elrianode. Entertain herself through whatever means she could think of.

But the El Lady was tenacious.

Harnier followed her when she wasn't doing anything, whispered apologies, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry for choosing you. For almost taking you away.", provided her with warmth and tenderness, showered her with words of wit and praise. Even... even when Elesis would hide behind pillars to ease her throat, duck into bushes, escape the notice of Harnier when the sensation of choking would get the better of her. Convulsions beneath her neck that she wanted to scratch at, but didn't. She would run instead, find an empty room, consider her options.

Harnier was so understanding. Even when. Even then. "Drink some more, some medicine.", "Maybe we can get someone to look at you.", "This is getting worse.", "Did you not want your brother to see you like this?", and on, and on, and on.

She dreamed, one night, of white hair, of teal eyes, of soft hands attempting to hold her. A wispy, sort of existence, foggy, lingering between the cracks of her fingers when she tried to hold back. She breathed in, out, in, out - the hand turned to dust, scattering, surrounding her. Like butterflies, bright and glowing, flying around and around.

She would spin in a rondo, around and around like the butterflies, and when she looked down, her chest would be nothing but a gaping hole. But she’d continue spinning anyway.

Elesis woke up, bathing in a cold sweat.

It was a that dream again. The one she started having since Lanox.

This was supposed to be a vacation, a time to rest, recharge her passion. But it became something else, something unwanted. The trash bin next to her was overflowing with discarded tissues, tinted red. Blue flowers, forming clumps, stuffed into the deepest part, hidden from view. Maybe she should've never come here.

She considered going home.

Ventus approached her again, days later. He was smiling this time, good news at the tip of his tongue.

"It should go away," he said as a preamble, with Lincy perched on his shoulder, "provided you tell her."

She almost choked on the bread she'd been eating and it took a moment to calm herself. Arms wrapped protectively around her body - she's not shaking, she's not shaking. The thought of admitting it, to Harnier, was something she hadn't really thought of. Not to such a sweet person, overflowing with kindness and compassion, her sense of duty encompassing her life. Not to her. Not to someone who loved everyone to the best of her abilities and who loved one person unconditionally, despite his mistakes.

Someone she had been destined to replace.

Elesis felt her body quiver in fear - she didn't want to admit it, because she couldn't even admit it to herself. She shouldn’t even be feeling such things for her. She knew this. And yet, and yet! She couldn't control the urge. The thought to come clean hummed beneath her fingers tapping against skin, and her eyes darted away from her current companion. Endlessly, they rang, "What if she says no?" or, "What if she's disgusted?" or, "What if what if what if what if.".

She really didn't need reciprocation. She just needed to tell her. Elesis knew Harnier would never choose her. Did she even want that? No, no, no, of course not. But something’s pulling at her chest, and if she could rip apart skin, she would, just for her lungs to jut out, revealing sinew stitched together with flowers dyed red.

She just needed to tell her. And she ought to, even against her own conflicting judgment, warring for supremacy within the space between her head.

"Before I leave," she finally said to Ventus, "I'll do it before I leave."

Before she leaves didn't mean at once. But it did mean not to avoid Harnier anymore. Unfortunately, she had to come clean with the bloody flowers. Even the other priestesses noticed them now. Scattered all over, decorating any space hidden by a shadow.

It all trailed back to Elesis’ room. So she had to tell them.

She didn’t tell them how. Thank Elia that Ventus had hidden the book.

One night, Harnier visited her room.

Elation and dread pressed against the walls of her chest. Harnier was so bright, like the sun, shining high above her. But her countenance was different. Like she’d be eaten alive if she stayed standing by the door, like prey facing a predator.

Ragged breathing. Unsure posture. No eye-contact. She knew, or at least, suspected.

The itch was starting again. Elesis had been vomiting full clumps now, a handful of forget-me-nots, drenched in spit and blood. Water didn’t help what she’d just heaved onto the trash bin. To try drinking was an exercise in futility, as much as she wanted to reach for the cup by her bedside. And, well, she had to say something, because letting Harnier stand there, like an unappreciated guest, would only serve to worsen her condition.

Eventually, she said, "Come in."

Elesis watched as Harnier made her way towards the bed, sitting beside her. She smiled at the knight, but it dropped as soon as her eyes glanced at the trash bin, to the smudged red on Elesis' bed covers, to the longing spread taut across pallid features. "This started when I first possessed you, didn't it." It wasn't a question. The words were a mess, garbled, dripping regret. Harnier sounded sad, horrified even. "It's my fault. It's my fault. Let me help you, please."

Silence. Moments passed.

And then.

"I love you." Just like that - like picking out what to eat or mentioning something non-committal, Elesis finally said it. Whispered past pale hands, admitted beside the warm light of a candle, beside the blindingly bright Harnier. It was a testament to how much Harnier knew when she didn't react outwardly, opting to remain silent. Elesis continued, "Or, or, I don't know. Do I? This," a hand of hers, laid on her chest, signaling the flowers growing in her, "this'll kill me if I don't tell you."

She sounded greedy, desperate, and, truthfully, she was. She could've just left, said her goodbyes, but Ventus had warned her that it might not go away if she'd did so. "Distance makes the heart grow fonder.", he had said to her.

Under the surface, something stirred. Something like, rejection hurt, something like, she didn’t want to impose this burden on Harnier, something like, she didn’t want to admit this. At the same time, she wasn't looking for Harnier to return her feelings. All she had was the resolve to push through with her admission, no hope, nothing of the sort lingering with her words.

But when their lips met, touching suddenly, when the female leaned towards her, Elesis couldn't help herself. Eyes closed, she leaned back into them, something missing put in place. The room felt a little bigger, less suffocating, and the coppery scent faded, replaced by a sweetness she couldn’t explain. It was just a small peck, and it was awkward, like it was both their first. It was like falling, dropping from five stories to a bed of flowers, and when she turned, the other was laughing. Confusion spread throughout her features, incomprehensible reaction regardless. It was like barring her soul for a small chance, the smallest miracle to occur, and failing even then, left to starving cats, to be devoured and feasted upon. She'd thought of hope, even when she told herself there wasn't any. It was like that sensation of just being whole, pieced together to form a full picture.

It was a moment of pure elation and pure dread. It felt like hours - it probably would have been hours, had the other not pulled away. Elesis opened her eyes to a smiling Harnier, felt her lips blistering even at that soft graze, felt her heart loudly protesting at the abrupt end - thumping, thrashing about the flowers wrapped delicately across her rib cage. She could feel her stomach lurch, and before she could run to the trash or elsewhere, bile, blood and flowers forced itself from her mouth. Every other second was punctuated with coughing, with a hand soothingly massaging her back.

"I know. Or, well, I knew," Harnier's voice hitched as she watched Elesis expel fluids and flora, "since the beginning. But I didn't think that," that this, probably, would happen,"you'd feel it so, so strongly... for the flowers to manifest." She swept the younger female in a hug, let the words fall into a rhythm with her breathing, soft and controlled. Elegant, divine, even despite the circumstance. 

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry, I should've done something. I should've."

She continued to murmur beside Elesis. Continued to grasp her hand, rub her back. On and on and on, until the knight stopped. Until the knight rested her head on Harnier's shoulder, mumbling softly, "This is enough. Thanks. This is fine. This is alright." repeatedly.

Blood dribbled from her chin, but Elesis smiled all the same. Something in her, once flailing helplessly, now settled quietly.

Maybe tonight, she's fall asleep in peace.

When Elsword came to pick up his sister, at the request of Ventus, he was a little shocked. Elesis didn't need picking up. Usually, it was her job to pick him up whenever he landed any trouble. Trepidation caught in his throat when Elrianode came into view, but the entourage greeting him dispelled the worry.

Elesis was there, waiting, alongside the other priestesses and masters. He could see her smile even from afar and he broke into a sprint, stopping once he was at arm’s length. A hug, greetings, goodbyes - Elesis lingered longest by the El Lady’s side, Elsword noticed, though he didn't question why - and before they knew it, the siblings were off.

"You really should have come with us to Hamel. Did you enjoy your vacation here though?" He asked, watching her as they strolled past Judge's Sanctuary.

She hummed out a reply, carefree smile still in place, saying, "I'm fine Elsword," she can’t help but let out a guffaw, teeth showing as she added, "and actually, I really needed the visit. It cleared my mind off some things. Are we going to meet up with the others somewhere?"

He nodded.

"They're still at Hamel. You have to do the dares."

A pause. He could see her eyebrows furrowing at his words.

"Dares?"

Laughter. From him first, and then she joined in. Whatever problem she'd been thinking, it seemed to have cleared up. He was glad for that, at least.

"Hehe- You'll see, big sis!"

[amintyworld]

LITTOH Chapter 3: By Your Side

A/N: I’d like to sincerely apologize for the lack of updates. Life got in the way, per usual. Anyway, It’s time to expand a bit on our side characters for this story, a bit of a break from the main storyline. Still disaster gays all around. Enjoy! - Minty

Summary: Remy falls for the new intern while Patton tries to help out his best friend and secret crush in his time of need.

TW: Stealing, having a crush, Blushing, sleep deprivation, overworking, Logicality, Remile (let me know if I missed any!)

Masterlist

Remy walked into Virgil’s room to gather the trash. An intern’s job is never done. His friend greeted him as he entered. “What’s up, Koffee Kween?”

Remy smiled. “Nothing much, Emo.” He grabbed the barrel and and held it above, dropping the trash into his rolling bin. “Hope you liked the roof. Went through a lot of trouble to snag the keys for you.”

Virgil smirked. “Don’t worry, they won’t find the key this time.”

“Speaking of which,” Remy said ever so smoothly, “Dee said you brought a guest…”

Virgil gave him a look, reading his mind. “Remy, he’s just a friend.”

Remy smirked. “Whatever you say.” He smiled, turning his attention to his trash.

“He had a bad day. So did I. So we went up to the roof. Big deal!” Virgil said. Remy set the trash can down with a loud thud.

“You’ve never brought anyone to the roof. Not even me.” Remy said. “All I’m saying, Emo, is that he must be important enough for you to bring him there, and well, I’m happy for you.”

“Um...I hope I’m not interrupting…”

Remy heard steps behind him, and he turned to meet birght chestnut eyes behind black frames. He gave a nervous smile as he looked around. “This isn’t the Nurse’s station, is it?”

He had a pure white lab coat with the blue ribbon all interns wear. His face seemed sun-kissed, with feckles and curly light brown hair. He was short, with a bow tie clipped on his white shirt. Remy felt his heart skip a beat, and he shook his head to focus, swallowing before speaking. “No...No, it’s down the hall…”

“Oh, sorry for interrupting, I’m new, and this hospital is huge.”

Virgil sat up on his bed. “I’m sure my friend Remy here can show you were the Nurse’s Station is. He’s been an intern for almost two years.” He nudged his friend. “Right, Rems?”

“R-right…” He said, dazed. I mean, he couldn’t think except just look at him, and he could hear his heart beat loudly in his ears. Virgil gave a nervous smile to the intern.

“Sorry, he’s just a little tired, you know?” Virgil said. “Remy, can you show this nice intern to the Nurse’s station?”

“N-nurse...station…” He said, dazed, before blinking, snapping out of it. “Oh, yes...yes, yes! The Nurse’s Station! Right this way.”

He dropped the barrel, turning to leave, giddly smiling. Virgil giggled. “Someone’s a little gay…” He whispered, loud enough for Remy to hear.

He giggled even louder as a blush spread across his cheeks at his words.

——————

“And over here is the main entrance to the ward, the Nurse’s Station is just over two lefts and a right.” Remy said, leading the intern toward the station.

“You really know your way around this place.” The intern said smling. “Oh! I forgot to introduce myself, silly me.” He reached out his hand as Remy took it. “My name’s Pacani. Emile Pacani.”

“Remy Justin, at your service.”

“Remy. I really like that name.” Emile said, smiling. If Emile kept this up, Remy was going to melt to the floor with the amount of times he was flushing pink.

“T-thanks, but it’s nothing special.” Remy said, before backing into a wooden door with a scanner at the side. “Oh! It uh, it looks like we’re here.”

“Oh..” Emile said.

“Just, uhm.. Scan your badge and turn the handle, okay?”

“Okay...I guess I’ll see you around?” Emile asked, hopeful.

“I guess so…” Remy said. “Don’t worry, the first day is always the hardest. If you, um, need any more help, I’ll be around, okay?”

“Okay. Bye, Remy.” Emile said, turning to leave. Remy turned as well, heading back to the room to resume his work. That was life - you fall for someone, and they leave without giving you a second thought…

“Wait-!”

Remy stopped, turning around. “Yeah..?”

“Wanna meet for lunch?”

——————

Patton always held Logan close to his heart. He meant the world to him, and he just wished Logan could see that. He held the stack of paitent files close as he walked through the halls, trailing Logan.

They took college classes together, sharing a dorm for those eight years. When they were partnered together, Patton couldn’t contain his excitement of working with his best friend. They had interned together, Logan bringing Patton coffee when he had stayed up late, overworking himself and staying up until 1 am finishing everything. Logan had never left his side, and Patton had never left his.

When Logan had called about his promotion as a resident, Patton was more than overjoyed. Then, Logan had argued for a position for him - it was only 9 months ago everything had changed, and Patton couldn’t be prouder of Logan.

“Just set those on the table, I’ve got to look through them before the meeting…”

Logan’s hair was messy, his glasses trying to hide the dark bags under his eyes. He ran his fingers through his hair with a sigh, going to his computer, typing something.

“Logan, are you okay?” Patton asked after setting the files down next to him.

“I’m fine, just…”

“No, you’re not.” Patton said. “Logan, I haven’t ever seen you this bad before.”

“It’s fine, Patton. I’ll be fine…”

“Logan!” Patton said, hands on his hips. “You look like a raccon, there’s a half eaten bagel in your pocket, and you’re wearing two different socks! Logan, you aren’t fine.”

Logan paused for a moment. His desk was a complete wreck of wrappers and empty coffee cups, and he looked down to notice that Patton was right about the socks. He gave a small chuckle.

“Huh. I didn’t even notice.” Logan’s voice was dull. Too dull.

“Logan, are you sure you’re up for the meeting?” Patton said, awfully concerned. When Logan pushed himself too much into his work, he neglected nearly anything else.

Logan sighed again. What he would give for a nap right now. “Even if I’m not, I have to be. They trusted me enough to handle being the Head of Emergency Affairs. I can’t let them down.”

Patton’s eyes took the new resident in. Logan wouldn’t like it if he forced him to take a day off. The poor guy could barely stand as it is. He couldn’t baby him anymore, taking him home despite his protests. He sighed, closing his eyes.

“Go to the meeting, but I’m expecting you to get at least the night shift off. I know Thomas hasn’t found someone for the night shift yet, but he can’t expect you to fill that responsibillity. If he really needs someone tonight, I’ll take it.”

Logan shook his head quickly. “No. Patton, I can’t ask you to do that.”

Patton smirked. “I never said you were asking, Lo.” Patton said. “Now, it’s time you high tail it to that meeting, right?”

Logan yawned, giving a small smile at his best friend. “Right.”

There was something special about Patton, something his frazzled and tired mind couldn’t quite define...

---------

Putting together a taglist, so please let me know if you’d like to be tagged via an msg or ask!