#wishing them all good luck on that discovery

[tsuutarr]

Pairing: Tokyo Debunker Ghouls x Reader

Word count: 12K

Content: angst, pining, loss

Summary:

Your potential death due to your curse was no secret, yet there was still a promise of time – time for you (and those who’re willing to help you) to find a cure, a solution to your plight. 

No one expected your death to come so suddenly.

(Or, a look into how the Darkwick Academy ghouls may react to your passing)

You’re no stranger to tragedy, but your death still comes as a surprise to you. Perhaps you should’ve expected it, what with your luck continuing its downward spiral to misfortune. Maybe you should’ve expected someone who despised you to take matters into their own hands, deciding to rid this world of your existence before you became a disastrous anomaly – before you even had a chance to fight your fate.

Regret upon regret builds a castle inside your bleeding body. Apologies, confessions – all of them slowly die in your throat.

You should’ve expected it all.

But you didn’t.

So now you lay, your blood a perfect canvas to frame your loss of life.

Your sage’s ring glows dimly on your finger.

.

.

.

“The Honor Student has passed away,” the Masterpiece Newscasters proclaim, their monotone voice ringing clearly throughout Darkwick Academy. “The culprit is yet to be found. All residents are forbidden to leave the premises until the criminal is found.”

As the Masterpiece Newscasters continue to prattle on about the false information of the Honor Student’s – your – passing, Yuri can feel a headache erupt from behind his eyelids. He’s already slept less than the recommended amount today, he doesn’t need this added stress! There’s no way you’re gone, it’s just not possible. You so bravely faced that immortal anomaly after all, so how could you be dead?

Yuri Isami is only heading to your place of residence to put these bizarre rumors to a rest.

Even when he sees your crumpled body on the floor, Yuri doesn’t believe it – you must have chosen to sleep oddly!

Even when he feels the coldness of your skin, he doesn’t believe it – you just need a blanket!

Even when he doesn’t hear your heartbeat, he doesn’t believe it – you must be acting!

No, no, he has to be realistic. You’re definitely sick. He has to help you. He has to save you! He can save you! He’s the greatest doctor, after all! He can think of so many ways to save you. He can, if you just enhance his stigma, so why don’t you do it? Yuri clutches your hand in his, hands trembling.

“Why won’t you enhance my stigma, worm?” he mumbles. “You can do at least this much, can’t you? You have the opportunity to help the great Yuri Isami! It’s an honor!”

“Yes, it’s an honor to help you,” you had said, laughing. Yuri could be quite particular about laughs, but he didn’t mind yours because there wasn’t anything patronizing about it. “You’re amazing, Yuri.”

“Hmph, well, it’s good that you know your place,” he had responded haughtily. He wishes he could’ve told you how grateful he was that you believed in him. That you were interested in him and his research. That you cared for him.

Yuri’s grip on your hand gets firmer, the coldness of your skin seeping into his. He looks at your eyes, thinking of the way your eyes would light up when he would showcase his scientific discoveries.

He looks at your lips, remembering how you’d smile so grandly at him whenever you two would talk. He remembers how you’d learn what song he was humming just to hum with him.

He looks at your hand, recalling the warmth and strength he felt when he first held it. The way your hand shook due to your own fear remains engraved in his brain – the way that you supported him despite looking like you’d fall. You’ve been able to stand so long, haven’t you? You can’t be gone now.

“Jiro!” he calls, voice cracking. This surgery needs to be a success. He can’t – he won’t – hand you over to another researcher. “Bring the Honor Student to Mortkranken! They need treatment immediately!”

At Yuri’s call, Jiro immediately reaches for you, cradling you in his arms as he lifts you up. He’s never really been one to be gentle, especially in regards to corpses. As long as the corpse is intact, is there any reason to be “gentle”? Jiro doesn’t really think so. But, even so, Jiro can’t bring himself to manhandle you, tossing you around like he would anyone else.

As soon as he saw you on the floor, he wanted to gather you in his arms and carry you back to bed. He wanted to open up his suitcase and conduct your weekly health checkup. He wanted to ensure that you weren’t dead.

Unfortunately, Jiro is cursed with objectivity and he knows – knows – that there’s no way you’re still alive. He also knows that there’s no way to bring you back. Maybe if they had found you faster. Maybe if you were a ghoul. Maybe, maybe, maybe…

But it’s too late now, isn’t it?

He thinks about how you reacted whenever you saw blood and gore. He thinks about how much you fret over him and his injuries, even though he reassures you constantly. He thinks about the warmth of your palms.

He thinks about the ridiculous care you put into everyone.

“What’s this packet? I can’t eat solids,” Jiro had stated bluntly when you passed him a box. It was pink and cutesy, decorated with ribbons.

“It’s not a solid,” you said, grinning cheekily. “Look inside!”

Jiro looked at you blankly, but still did as you instructed. Yuri was strange, but you could be quite strange, too. “...Oh.”

“It’s chocolate milk! It should hopefully be easier to eat,” you beam at him. “Happy Valentine's Day, Jiro!”

Jiro cradles you closer to his chest, like you’re made of glass. You’re so cold, your skin feeling like his. He never thought that someone who was as warm-hearted as you could ever feel so desolate. “...I told you it’d be a problem for me if you died,” he murmured, softly, as he quietly trailed behind Yuri to head to Mortkraken.

When Rui hears the news of your passing, he’s pretty sure the world just stopped moving around him. He has to hear the news several more times to really come to terms with it. It’s unfair, he thinks, it’s so unfair.

You were fighting so hard. You were working so hard.

How could that come crashing down so suddenly?

It’s not fair. You of all people should’ve been able to live a long life. You of all people should’ve been able to be happy. 

He tried so hard to stay away from you, to prevent him from accidentally killing you with his curse. You tried so hard to bring him comfort, despite the looming danger of his power. He’s flirted with plenty of people, but you’re the only person he’s ever thought he’d actually love to spend forever with. He cursed himself for those thoughts, knowing that longing for something that can’t be will only hurt him more. But there isn’t an easy end to longing.

“Sometimes, I wish I could’ve met you as a regular guy,” Rui had confided in you, one day, as the two of you sat in his bar. He swirled his wine, his cheeks slightly ruddy from the alcohol. “I guess you wouldn’t have given me the time of day if we had, though.” His laugh left his lips, hollowly bouncing around his glass as he took another sip.

“You’re drunk, Rui,” you had said, though your tone didn’t hold any malice. “...But sometimes, I wish I could’ve met you before our curses, too.”

This is why he couldn’t get over you, no matter how much he tried. This is why he couldn’t distance himself from you, no matter how much he tried. You drew him in closer and closer like a trap, and he was more than okay with being ensnared, even if he was scared of being hurt.

“Chuu!”

Rui blinked, surprised, as a cute teddy bear smooches him on the cheek.

“Sorry, you seemed distracted,” you hummed, making Rui laugh.

“Ah, yeah– yeah! Sorry about that,” he responded, “I def wasn’t trying to be.”

“I know,” you replied. “But you got to pay attention now, okay? I want you to meet someone!” You waved the teddy bear’s paw. “This is Honor Student Teddy!” Through your puppeteering, Honor Student Teddy offered Rui a hand, which Rui took with an amused look.

“You’re so cute.”

“Beep! Incorrect! The one that’s cute is Honor Student Teddy!” you said, looking away bashfully. Cute. “...So, I was thinking. Since we can’t touch, maybe we could use Honor Student Teddy as my replacement?” You grabbed Honor Student Teddy’s other hand, the one not in Rui’s grasp. “See? Doesn’t it kind of seem like we’re holding hands?”

Honor Student Teddy remains in Rui’s room, pampered and loved as it should be. As you should’ve been. A dry laugh escapes Rui. 

“...Maybe this time, we can really hold hands.”

Blearily, Lyca opens his eyes, the sound of his phone buzzing waking him up. He sees that the message is from the blonde gigolo, which initially makes him annoyed. But Lyca has good instincts – his gut feeling is telling him to pay attention. So, instead of ignoring Rui, Lyca sleepily reads Rui’s texts.

His sleep soon evaporates from his being.

“It’s a lie!” he yells, jumping out of his bed and running to his bedroom’s door. There’s no way you’re gone. There’s no way he’ll never be able to smell your sweet scent ever again. There’s no way you won’t lay down with him and gently thread your fingers through his hair. There’s no way you won’t be able to draw together again. There’s just no way. There’s no way!

But even if Lyca wants to burst out of his bedroom, following your scent to find you, he can’t open the door. He can’t open the door to confirm if you’re really gone. He doesn’t want to go downstairs to see that you’re not waiting for him. He doesn’t want to go to the balcony where you’ll no longer be able to eat with him.

Lyca doesn’t want to lose you. Opening the door to the bedroom feels like he’ll lose you. Carefully, he goes back to his bed, where the blanket from Neros and the blanket from you lay side by side.

“Lyca!” you beammed, making Lyca tilt his head. You had a sweeter scent than usual today. Something that indicated that you were quite happy.

“What’re you so egg-cited about?”

“Heh.” You gave him a big grin. It was something he’d come to like seeing, especially since so many on campus gave him a grimace. “Ta-dah!” With a flourish, you presented Lyca with a soft blanket. “I got you a gift!”

Lyca frowned, looking at the blanket in confusion. “I already got one.”

“Yeah, I know,” you responded, not at all discouraged by the bite in Lyca’s tone. “It’s an extra one! I thought it’d be nice if you could have some more blankets. You can be twice as warm and cozy now!” There was a hint of hesitation as you say your next words, “I can take it back, though. Sorry, I guess I got ahead of myself.”

“...S’okay.” Lyca took the blanket from you, feeling cozier as soon as he touched the soft fabric. It smelt like you. He liked how you smelled – in some ways, it reminded him of home.

Lyca looks at the blanket on his bed, the one that you got him. He grabs it, softly, in his palms. He remembers your encouragement when he had told you that he’d work hard so that he could live with humans. You said he could do it and when you said it, he really did feel like he could. So, you can’t be gone yet. He needs you.

With a deep inhale, Lyca snuggles the blanket that smells like you because maybe, just maybe, he’ll be able to chase you and tell you not to leave him if he memorizes your scent.

Rui’s message about your death comes as a surprise to Ed even though he knows that human lives are fleeting – they’re fragile and easily broken. In some ways, that is why Ed has always thought that human life is so beautiful. 

Still, he thinks your life would’ve been so much more beautiful if you had lived it to its full extent. If you could’ve continued to laugh like you had, if you could’ve continued to shine bright like you had – he thinks you’d have made the world a better place. 

He’s lived for many years, yet the loss of someone he considers dear somehow still stings. He thought he managed to rid himself of such stinging emotions, yet it appears that even age does not make you immune to loss. 

Or perhaps you're just one of those humans – one of those humans that make a lasting impact on those around them. But how could you not make an impact? After all, you were so hardworking, both for your sake and for others. 

Who wouldn’t find you precious?

“Okay, Ed! Let’s watch some sad movies!”

Ed had texted you a few minutes ago, bemoaning his exhaustion. He hadn’t expected you to barrel into his room, a bag of snacks in your hand.

“My, my. What brought this on? Not that I am opposed, of course.”

“Well, you said you were tired, right? And you also said you drink tears, right? Well, I brought over some movies I’ll definitely cry to!” you gave him a confident grin. “Don’t worry, Ed. You’ll feel better really soon!”

“How reassuring,” he mused, welcoming you into his messy room. Rui had cleaned it up a few days ago, but Ed found it quite difficult to maintain cleanliness. You didn’t comment on it as you made your way over to him, settling yourself by his side. It was quite cozy.

Laying in his bed isn’t quite as cozy if you’re not there, he realizes. He scrolls through the videos you’ve sent him, imagining how you reacted to these videos. It is reassuring in some ways to have remnants of you left behind, but the pain that he can now only reach you through the remnants of your memory leaves him feeling vacant.

“Being with you really does bring up old, old memories,” he muses. “Perhaps it’s because you remind me a little of her.”

He wonders if there’ll be anyone who reminds him of you.

Not everyone who dies becomes a ghost. Yet, deep inside, Zenji had hoped that you’d have turned into one like him. He had hoped that you’d be able to spend time together, finally being able to hold your hand in his. However, he knows that it’s a selfish desire, one that cannot come true. He scoured the entire campus for any sign of your soul, after all, and came up empty handed.

He wishes that you could’ve been alive instead, then.

He’d rather live by your side, unable to touch you, than not be able to see you at all.

He’d rather you live your life like you want to, happily.

He wishes he could’ve done something more for you – after all, you’ve done so much for him. He’s a ghost, someone that most don’t know the existence of. Yet you made sure to greet him and spend time with him whenever you had time. You’ve been a source of his inspiration, his muse, because of how much you make his heart swell with joy.

He is an artist, so creating is in his blood. However, how do you create when you lose a piece of your hope? How do you create when you lose your source of inspiration?

“My dear, what do you think about this piece?” Zenji had asked, flourishing his biwa with grandeur. 

“It’s great!” you said, earnestly. “I especially like how it felt like a full narrative – I got so tense when the biwa’s sound got deeper in the middle, just like the climax of a story!”

“Astute observation, my dear! That is indeed what I was aiming for.” Zenji couldn’t express the unexplainable joy that blossomed inside his heart when he heard your praise. You were a beacon of light that shined in the desolate lands. You were the purple wisteria that danced from the tree branches over the Hotarubi lake. Your beauty, your kindness – it was all so beautiful to him. He felt like the moon to your sun. “I really am the luckiest fella around.”

And now, he’s the unluckiest fella around, Zenji thinks. You’re no longer by his side. You’ll never be by his side, at least, not in this lifetime. The thought makes Zenji’s heart throb painfully. “Maybe we really did meet too late,” Zenji murmurs, watching wisteria petals float around the lake. “But it’s all right. I promise I’ll find you in the next life.”

 Haku can’t say he’s ever been too happy to be able to see ghosts. Sure, Zenji’s fun to be around and it’s not like his ability really harmed him in any way, but he can’t really think of many times he’s been glad to have his ability. When he hears of your death, denial is the first thing that settles in his brain. Then, the grief follows. But hope blossoms in a corner of his mind. He can see ghosts – maybe he’ll be able to see you? Hope glimmers in the corner of Haku’s heart as he tries to find you.

The glimmer soon dies out, however, because it’s all for naught. Not everyone becomes a ghost. It was foolish of him to think that you’d have become one.

But then what’s the point of his power – his stupid ability to see ghosts? What’s the point of it if he can’t even see the one he wants to see?

Haku feels like it’s all a big practical joke from the universe, and he wants to be in on it because he’s failing to see what’s so funny.

Living an ordinary life, dying an ordinary death – that’s something you deserved to experience, and now you’re gone. It’s an inexplicably painful feeling that stabs at his heart. How is he supposed to fill the hole you left behind?

“I don’t know if this is a good idea…” you murmured, looking shy.

“You look beautiful,” Haku said, easily, a teasing grin on his face at how flustered you looked. His words were far from teasing, though. They were filled with an earnest praise of how gorgeous you looked decorated in white. Just seeing you in wedding attire made him think that it’d be a shame if anyone else got to see how beautiful you looked, but also a shame if no one else got to see. A weird balance of wanting to show you off, yet wanting to keep you to himself lingered inside him.

“Sure, sure,” you grumbled without any bite. “Let’s just get this over with.”

“Thanks for agreeing to help, by the way,” Haku said, offering you his hand to take. You took it gratefully, before you shook your head with a laugh.

“It’s nothing. I’m glad I can help your junior in some way, though.”

“Yeah, she really appreciates your help.”

“Good.” The satisfaction on your face made you glow with a sort of shine one could only find in gold. It was precious, it was soft, it was so darling that Haku wanted to make sure that you continued to glow and shine forever. Even if it meant that you weren’t by his side (even though he so desperately wanted you by his side).

“...I know I’m being selfish – but sometimes, I wish you’d forget about me…” he murmured, low enough that he hoped you wouldn’t hear it. You gave him a glance, only squeezing his hand in response. He wasn’t sure how to interpret your reaction, but a part of him wants it to indicate that you wouldn’t ever forget him, even if forgetting him would most likely make you happier.

It’s hard to balance the desire of being remembered and the desire of being forgotten.

He wasn’t sure what he was feeling.

“But I guess that doesn’t really matter now, does it?” Haku muses, looking at the skies above. Stars sprinkle the navy-colored sky like diamonds. He can only hope you’re out there, shining.

From the age of four, Subaru was molded to perfect the performing arts. A child star, a prodigy – those are the titles given to him. He never feels like he deserves that praise – he’s not sure if he’ll ever feel like he deserves that praise. After all, growing up, anxiety was his most reliable companion, following him everywhere he went. How can he not doubt himself?

Yet while he breathed the performing arts, he’s developed mannerisms most around him find peculiar and odd. It’s hard not to think of himself as a bother when he can’t seem to blend into society as well as he’d like.

Because of his oddities, he never thought he’d ever be able to have a normal school life. Somehow, however, he's able to come to Darkwick Academy, experiencing pleasant social interactions due to the kindness of the people around him – people like yourself. You’re someone who Subaru can find a semblance of comfort in, despite his anxiety.

He knows he’s probably annoying you, but you’re always there, always so patient. You don’t make fun of him for his discomfort, nor do you push him beyond his boundaries. Instead, you patiently wait for him, allowing him to walk alongside you at his pace.

So when Subaru hears the news that you’re no longer with the living – no longer with him, he can't stop his mind from spinning. You’ve always been someone that waited for him patiently, yet now you’ve gone off by yourself to somewhere he can’t reach.

Emptily, he looks at the sakura mochi on the shelf – he had bought it for you. You’d eat his meager offerings with gusto, even if not all of them suited your palette.

He’s not sure how he’ll stomach some of the food he’s eaten with you from this point onwards. You’re not here physically, only your memories lingering in the ingredients of his meals. He’s not sure if he’ll be able to stomach the food you’ve made for him if someone else makes it, either.

“I’m sorry,” he had said, running up to you, out of breath.“I didn’t mean to be late.”

“You’re not!” you responded cheerily, patting the spot next to you. “Come, sit!”

“Thank you.” Gingerly, Subaru took the spot next to you, placing his hands on his lap. You peered at him curiously.

“Where’s your lunch, Subaru?”

“Ah.” Subaru ducked his head in embarrassment. “I ended up not being able to get anything.” Despite making you wait, despite his best efforts, he just wasn’t able to secure anything. How shameful. “But it’s all right. I can drink water for lunch.”

“No, don’t do that,” you chastised, lightly. “I actually packed my own lunch today because I thought it’d be busy everywhere. I packed a lot, so why don’t we share?”

“Ah–” Subaru looked at the delectable way your lunch box was crafted. “No, I’d hate to intrude.”

“You aren’t intruding, Subaru.” You nudged one of your lunchboxes into his hand along with some chopsticks. “I’m offering! I’m actually pretty happy with how some of these came out. Won’t you try some?”

At the delicious smell of your lunchbox, Subaru’s stomach let out an embarrassing growl. His face flushed, mortified, but you made no comment on it, instead offering your lunch again. “Well, if you insist,” he murmured, finally taking a box from you. 

Once he took you up on your offer, you dug into your own lunch. Though, Subaru couldn’t help but notice how you’d glance at him nervously. It was kind of cute.

Not wanting to waste your kindness, Subaru took a bite of the lunch, before his eyes widened with glee. “This is delicious!”

“Whew– I mean, great! I’m so glad,” you beamed. “If you tell me some of your favorite food, I can try to make it for you! I can’t guarantee it’ll be as good as Sho’s, but I can try!”

“I couldn’t ask you to,” Subaru responded, bashfully. The thought that you cared for him was enough to satisfy him. “I would hate to be a bother.”

“You’re never a bother, Subaru.” Your voice was so kind, so soft and genuine that Subaru didn’t really know how to react.

“Really?” Disbelief laced his voice. He hated being a bother but always felt like he was. He knew that you were already spending your precious lunch with him when you could spend it with anyone else. There wasn’t any way you’d care about him to that extent, right? 

“Subaru?” you asked, concerned.

“I just can’t believe it – why…” Subaru paused, suddenly hit with a bout of embarrassment. “Ah– I don’t want to seem like I’m testing you, I just… I get really anxious sometimes… I’m sorry. I’m being weird, aren’t I?”

“You’re not.” Your voice rang clear inside the storm in Subaru’s head, letting sunshine stream through the clouds. “I’ve never thought you were a bother. I actually really enjoy my lunches with you.”

“Really?”

“Yup! So if I’m not too much of a bother, let’s eat more lunches together!”

Subaru had promised, promised that he would. He promised that you’d always eat your lunches together because that’s what he sincerely believed. He believed that you two would be able to bask underneath the sunrays, seated on your favorite bench, laughing.

He wants to believe that you’ll still be able to eat together. He wants to believe so desperately. Because who else could bring him the comfort you did? Who else will patiently wait for him to catch up, gently guiding him when he needs it?

But now you’re gone – you’re gone. You won’t be able to come back. It tears at Subaru because his anxiety and inferiority complex tell him that it’s his fault – that he could’ve done something, anything, to save you. 

Why couldn’t he save you?

Why couldn’t you have been saved?

The room that Subaru is in feels too big for him as it slowly fills with his grief.

According to Article 230 in the Japanese penal code, “a person who defames another by publicly alleging facts shall, regardless of whether such facts are true or false, be punished with penal servitude or imprisonment not to exceed three years or a fine of not more than 500,000 yen.” Doesn’t Darkwick know that? Why would Darkwick allege such odd things like your death, Ritsu wonders. Still, he’ll record what the Masterpiece Newscasters are saying – after all, it’ll be useful to leverage against Darkwick when he takes you to argue his cases.

There is little he finds more important than being able to argue his cases, which indicate his proficiency. He needs to be proficient in order to be able to become a fantastic lawyer like his father – this has always been his goal. Even after meeting you, it’s been his goal.

Some may have thought that you would’ve been a distraction for Ritsu, but he’s certain that your presence in his life has been for the better. You’re a fantastic business partner, being perfect to bounce his ideas off of. It’s admirable that you’ve taken on the mantle of ridding yourself of your curse, too. Ritsu finds that most people aren’t that hard working or really worth his time (unless they’re clients), but you’re different. You’re worth his time.

“Could I ask you to accompany me a little longer?” he had asked one day as you’re about to leave the diner. “I realize it’s outside of business hours, but… I would appreciate it if you could make a special exception.”

“Oh?” you looked surprised, though it was soon replaced with a smile. Your smile was something Ritsu appreciated seeing nowadays – something that felt like visible proof of Ritsu’s hard work. “Yeah, sure! I have time. What do you need?”

“I have to go over a few notes,” Ritsu responded, passing a notebook over to you. “I’ve already gone through these once, but I’d appreciate it if you could go through it, too. It’ll prove beneficial for you.”

“Yeah, sure, leave it to me!”

Your eagerness to help Ritsu cemented the fact that you were the right choice for his business partner. As the hour slowly trailed on, the both of you focused on your respective reading, Ritsu found that he didn’t quite mind spending time with you like this, outside of business hours. He found your presence calming, yet also helpful – he found it easier to focus when you were around.

It was nice. Even as the two of you began to wrap up, Ritsu wasn’t in as much of a hurry to disappear. 

“I’ll take your thoughts into consideration,” Ritsu said as you two left the diner. The night sky stretched out beautifully above you two. Ritsu had never noticed it before.

“Sounds good!”

Ritsu cleared his throat, offering you a hand to shake. You shook his hand without much preamble. He appreciated it. “It seems we make better business partners than I would have expected. I look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with you.”

“Likewise.”

He still thought about the smile you’d given him that night, bright like the moon. It was a smile that made it obvious that he had someone by his side to support him – someone that he can support in return. 

So, there’s no way you’re gone. Not when you have him as a business partner. That’s a ludicrous thought.

Still, he can’t seem to shake the ill feeling from his body. Why aren’t you responding to your texts? You’re usually quite timely unless something has come up. Something…

No, there’s no way you’re gone. There’s just no way.

Ritsu’s grip on his briefcase tightens.

He feels like he’s going to be sick.

Romeo wants to scream, so he does. “Everyone, leave!” His voice echoes in his room, his workers trying to scramble out of Romeo’s wrath. With a frustrated string of curses, Romeo collapses on his expensive chair, the one encrusted with diamond – the one that you’d complimented.

Romeo truly, utterly, feels sick. He feels annoyed. He feels disgusting. His perfect porcelain skin is marred with wrinkles, a frown deep set in his face. How dare you – how dare you have the audacity to leave him. He never gave you permission to do things like this, so how could you go away? He’s always known you were bad at following directions, but this is too much, even for you.

No.

What’s too much is that someone, someone, thought that they could come in and take you from him. How dare they! They didn’t even get permission from him! They didn’t… So why would they? They can’t take you away from him, not when you’re the only one that listens to him. Not when you’re the only one who seems to care about not making wrinkles appear on his face. Not when you’ve been doing your best.

It’s not fair. It’s just not fair.

“Why are you carrying that?! What if you drop it and it breaks?” Romeo exclaimed, watching you carry a very expensive vase.

“Ah – I heard you say that the guys who’re supposed to move this haven’t done their job, so I thought I could help!”

Help?! Romeo couldn’t help but look at the way your arms trembled with the weight of a price that far exceeded your budget, doubt coloring his face. “I’ll get one of our young guys to do it, so put it down already!”

You huffed, putting the vase down carefully, with a defeated sigh. “Sorry, I just wanted to help.”

“Help where you’re actually useful,” Romeo grumbled, crossing his arms. If those idiots that he’d asked to move the vase actually moved the vase, then he wouldn’t be in this predicament. “Those WTWUT make my life much harder.”

“Wall-to-wall useless trash, huh?” you mused. Romeo thought that amusement looked good on you – it gave you a cocky look that suited you. If only everyone else could be like you, then he wouldn’t be as stressed as he was. 

“I need a face pack,” he muttered.

“Do you want me to get it for you?”

“Hm. Sure.” Romeo paused. “Get one for yourself while you’re at it.”

“Me?” you looked at him with curiosity and shock written across the apples of your cheeks.

“Who else?”

“I just… I dunno. Do you think it’s okay?”

“Of course. What could you possibly be afraid of?” Romeo asked. “You’re one of my people! Who’s going to say anything?”

You looked contemplative, before a light smile crossed your features. “That’s true. I guess no one can really say anything to you.”

Your words make him feel powerful. Your actions do, too. When he’s with you, he feels like the world is in his palms. But now he’s without you. Now, he’ll always be without you.

Anger thrums through his veins. 

You’re one of his people. How dare they take you away from him? Romeo won’t stand for it. He’ll snipe down the bastard that did this to him – that did this to you.

“You BTH!” Romeo yells, storming into Taiga’s room with the fury of a thousand bulls. “You’re still lazing around?”

Taiga doesn’t respond, twirling a gun in his hand. He’s not entirely in his right mind right now, but he can still pick up “revenge” and “snipe” among the various words Romeo spews.

“You better do your part,” Romeo hisses, finally deciding to leave Taiga alone. Maybe Romeo would’ve stayed longer to nag at Taiga if Romeo were in a better state of mind. Taiga can’t really bring himself to care at the moment, though, his own state of mind is a jumbled mess.

Flashes of memories, flashes of thoughts – they alternate inside his head, before phasing out of existence. He’s not sure when it started, but his mind has been deteriorating, memories floating in and out of his head. What most would consider “common sense” is also something Taiga has been losing grasp of.

Even in spite of that, somehow, you’ve made your way into his brain, like a little parasite that burrows into his thoughts. He didn’t think he could remember someone – not in his current state of mind, anyway. He didn’t think he could form an attachment to you either, not with how he just doesn’t want to care anymore. The world’s going to burn, everything unfurling into a messy pile of futures that could be and won't be. It’s all messed up, it’s all gonna be messed up. Yet, somehow, despite all that, Taiga can’t help but think of you as some source of light, a beacon of hope that he kept around to stop him from completely drowning in the dark murkiness of the future.

“That’s it, kitty-cat,” he had said, placing you in his lap as he prepared to play another round of blackjack. “I feel like my luck’ll change if you’re around.”

“I don’t know about that,” you responded, watching as the dealer handed out everyone’s cards. You fidgeted in his lap like a cute little cat, clearly trying to break your discomfort.

“Quit failing around,” Taiga said, looking at his cards. To Taiga’s amusement, you settled in his lap to the best of your abilities, leaning into his chest. He pulled you closer, as he continued to play blackjack. 

The longer he played, the more he felt some odd sense of peace with you snuggled in his lap. Your smell and warmth wrapped around him like a little security blanket. In some ways, it made him want to consume you wholly until you couldn’t think of anything else that wasn’t him. It made him hungry.

But now, there’s a hollow feeling inside of him, something that bypasses physical hunger. He hungers for your soul that’s now no longer here. The pitch-black murkiness of the future spreads even further across his eyelids, being the only thing he can see. Fate has dealt him a bad hand that he had tried to win against.

He never could win, though, could he?

“Tell me something, would you?” Taiga laughs in his empty room, eyes staring at the ceiling. He searches and searches, but can’t find any sight of you. “What could I have done different to change this outcome?”

Ren has always thought that coming to Darkwick Academy was a mistake. His experience didn’t exactly start off nicely, what with him being sorted into Jabberwock and having to deal with the annoying Jabberwock captain. All those stupid anomalous animals made it so that he rarely had time to himself, even if he tried his best to lock himself in his room.

Still, there’s a silver lining to everything. Sure, Towa keeps trying to feed some odd looking porridge. Sure, Haru is still meddlesome and annoying. But they’re… not bad. And you’re here, so it’s kind of okay. 

He’s always thought that people doing annoying things for the sake of friends or whatever were delusional – frankly speaking, he could care less. Yet, when he looks at you, he thinks that maybe there are people out there who do things because they want to. Initially, you’d been somewhat of a doormat to him, but then he realized that your voluntary help came because you care about others – about him.

He can’t count the number of times you’ve come to help him out, whether it’s with the anomalous animals or a raid in his new game. You’ve just… always been there. He didn’t think it was possible, but your constant presence had carved out a you-shaped hole in his life, a place only you could fit.

So how’s he supposed to fill that emptiness now? It’s all your fault, Ren thinks. If only he hadn’t met you… but then, if he hadn’t met you, he doesn’t think he could’ve survived.

“Well done me for surviving another day…” Ren had grumbled, dusting his jumpsuit off. He hated getting dirty, but it wasn’t like he could avoid it in Jabberwock, especially if Haru was going to hound him continuously. 

“Good job, Ren!”

He looked up, seeing how you still looked cute despite the mud and disheveled hair. He found it kind of unfair. “Oh, same to you,” he said. “I don’t know how you can do this stuff voluntarily.”

“The animals are cute and you guys need the help,” you replied, waving at him to bend down. “Ren, there’s some mud on your face. Do you mind if I wipe it off?”

“Huh? You’re the type who does this kind of stuff, huh?”

“Ah, sorry–”

“No, you can,” Ren said. It wasn’t like he gave you permission to help him because he wanted to feel your touch, though. It was because he couldn’t stand the mud on him. Yup. That was definitely the reason. Still, even then, he couldn’t help the way his heart thudded against his chest as you gently wiped the grime off of his face. “It’s from that stupid bull anomaly kicking dirt in my face, isn’t it?”

“I think that’s when it happened, yeah,” you responded with a laugh. “But I’m here if you need me, so I can help you.”

Ren didn’t know what to say to your honest desire to help him, it was oddly sweet of you. You had been his only real source of comfort, what with everyone else wanting so much from him. You were the only one who watched his B-horror movies with him – the only one who’d game with him.

“There, all done! Let’s go back to the dorms. I’m sure you’ll feel better after a shower.”

“...Thanks,” he muttered, walking with you back to the Jabberwock dorms. The skies were painted shades of pink and purple, the sun ready to head to bed.

“Even though it’s hard work, it’s nice to be able to see the sunset, huh?” you hummed. Ren liked the sound of your voice – not too loud like Haru’s and not too incomprehensible like Towa’s.

“Yeah.” He breathed in deeply, feeling the fresh air purify his lungs. “Every day here is a fresh hell, though.”

“Aw, Ren,” you laughed. “Yeah, it’s pretty hard work, huh?”

“...Yeah. But, you’re suffering through it with me, so I guess I’ll stick it out for a little longer…”

But how’s he supposed to stick it out now? You’re not here anymore. You’re not going to be there to help him. You’re not going to be there when he wants to watch his B-horror movies or play games. You’re not going to be there when he buys you a drink as he walks you home.

You’re not going to be here. And he didn’t even get to say goodbye…

Ren’s always been bad at goodbyes – he couldn’t even wish Calamari farewell. But he’d have rather been able to say something to you since he’s not going to be able to say anything to you ever again now. Never, ever again.

Ren doesn’t know how he’s going to survive.

Ever since Towa found out about your death, the skies in Jabberwock have been marred with thick clouds and thunder. His precious, precious Dandelion – how can you be gone? You can’t be gone yet. You haven’t told him all the love stories you had in your arsenal. You haven’t tried all the flowers Towa wants to offer you. You haven’t shown him all the reactions you’ve stored away for him to slowly bring to the surface.

You can’t be gone just yet, he won’t allow it.

Murkiness swims inside Towa’s heart as he grapples with the anger and sadness that fight and merge into an incomprehensible seed of emotion that is planted deeply within Towa’s heart. Should he just strike everyone down? You’re not here, so as long as he avoids Haru, it doesn’t matter who he hurts. It’s not like he particularly cares about anyone else on campus anyway. 

But he can’t allow his emotions to explode out of him just yet, not when the tree on the hill is dying. You care about that tree as well, after all. 

But then where is he supposed to spill his anger? His grief? Where does it all go?

Is this what love is? This agony?

Towa hasn’t ever really been certain about what “love” is. 

“Well, love can be a lot of things,” you had said, laying by his side on the hill with the tree. You were enraptured with the stars, but Towa couldn’t help but look at you. You were so much like a dandelion, your resilience and strength shining through despite your troubles. And you were cute like a Dandelion. Your voice was nice, too, like the wind that carried dandelion seeds across the world. “Like… there’s romantic love, platonic love, familial love, and all of that, you know? Even within romantic love, it can be a lot of different things.”

“Like what?” Towa asked, making you hum in thought.

“Uh… like soulmates, I guess? Some people meet their soulmates, some don’t. But even if you don’t meet your soulmate, you can still find someone you romantically love. Maybe you’ll meet your soulmate but not realize they’re your soulmate too. It’d be hard to tell, right?”

“When you meet your soulmate, it feels like getting struck by lightning. Did you know that? Have you felt it, Dandelion?” Towa’s words made you turn your head towards him, finally paying attention to him instead of the stars. Towa liked the way you looked at him.

“I don’t think I have,” you responded, truthfully. “But I’m not in a rush. I’m sure I’ll find the person I love, even if they’re not my soulmate. Hell, maybe anyone can be your soulmate. Maybe soulmates are made when you love and grow with each other. Who knows?” A yawn escaped your mouth as you finished your thought.

“Heh heh.” Towa’s eyes crinkled at the sight. “Are you tired, Dandelion? You’re so weak. It’s cute.”

“Hey!” you laughed. “I’m getting stronger, y’know.” Flexing your arm, you show off a small bit of the muscle you’ve been building up. Towa couldn’t help but be amused at your little display of strength, miniscule in front of his own power. It was hard not to find it cute that you tried to carry so many burdens on your shoulders despite your own weaknesses. Towa could only surmise that your resilience came from the love within you. He hoped that he could be a part of that love inside of you.

“Do you like me, Dandelion?” Towa inquired, smile bright. “Because I love you!”

Towa doesn’t fully know what love is – it’s an idea he’s always been in love with, but has no experience and understanding of. You’re the closest he’s ever gotten to potentially finding the answer he’s been looking for. But now you’re gone. He doesn’t know how he’ll understand love now.

He hugs the great tree on the hill, tears trickling down his face.

 When the little mermaid turned into seafoam, did she feel this way too?

Haru is always busy. He wakes up busy and sleeps busy. Nothing ever seems to stop for him, time constantly slipping through his fingers like sand no matter how fast he runs.

So why did time have to stop for you?

Even as Haru makes his rounds, Towa’s lightning in the backdrop as he works, he can’t seem to keep his mind busy enough to not think of you. Thoughts and memories of you run around his head again and again and again. They run so fast that he can’t seem to catch up.

So Haru does what he can do to maintain routine. At the very least, maintaining routine should help him adjust, shouldn’t it? But as he carries out his daily chores, all he can think about is how you’d help him around Jabberwock. How you would give him sweets to amp up his energy. How you loved Peekaboo like it was your own.

“Boo…” Peekaboo says, aware of the tenseness and wariness on Haru’s shoulders – aware of the fact you’re no longer there. Peekaboo’s tears make your death weigh even heavier on Haru’s heart as he cuddles the small beast in his arms.

“You sure are fond of the Honor Student, aren’t you, Peekaboo?” Haru had asked, looking at how Peekaboo cuddled up against your chest as you fed it. “You did nothing but bite me for the first three days after we met.”

You laughed brightly, releasing a sound that Haru was quite fond of. “The only reason Peekaboo’s not biting me is because it’s used to you, you know.”

“You reckon?” Haru responded, reaching out to pet Peekaboo who welcomed the touch.

“See? Look at that. Peekaboo loves you so much.” You gave Peekaboo a kiss on its cute fluffy forward, making the small anomalous animal make happy little squeaks. “You like your dad quite a bit, don’t you?”

The sight of you and Peekaboo together made Haru’s heart warm. He was constantly managing things by himself that he never really expected to find a stable support system. Towa, while competent, could be quite moody. Ren, too, while able bodied, refused to do a lot of the work. So, of course, work always fell on Haru’s weary shoulders. He never expected to find someone that could provide him the support he needed – like the other parent of Jabberwock. “Then you’re a bit like Peekaboo’s mother, eh?”

“I wouldn’t mind – not when my child is as cute as Peekaboo!” you replied brightly, patting Peekaboo’s back to allow it to burp. After releasing a burp too large for such a small animal, Peekaboo cuddled into you, satisfied. You hummed out a little tune as you rocked the little anomalous animal to sleep. Seeing you made a smile stretch across Haru’s face.

“Really learned the ropes here, haven’t you?” he said, gently ruffling Peekaboo’s fur. “Once we have a little cash to spare, I’ll buy you your own Jabberwock uniform!”

You’d no longer need it, though, Haru thinks, thumb brushing against the fabric of the Jabberwock uniform he had gotten for you. While you aren’t officially a part of the Jabberwock House, it’s hard not to feel like you belonged. 

But you’re no longer here – you no longer belong to the living, so how could you belong to Jabberwock? Haru wishes that you were still here, though. It hasn’t even been a day, but he already misses you. Even if you couldn’t help him out every day, just getting a text message boosted his spirits. Just thinking about the fact that you’d help him with Jabberwock duties and his personal issues helped him get through his cumbersome day.

You were someone he could depend on and he wanted to be someone you could depend on. But, in the end, he couldn’t protect you.

His responsibilities sit heavily on his shoulders.

Sho has always kept himself busy. Whether it’s cooking, playing sports, training, or something else, Sho has always liked to do something. Maybe that’s why he’s in the kitchen, cooking your favorite meal, while he tries to process what the Masterpiece Newscasters had prattled on about earlier.

You’re dead?

There’s no way. You can’t be.

He thinks back to the first case you worked on together, the one with Takeru. He had failed to protect you then and vowed he wouldn’t put you in the way of danger like that again. So how? Why?

Who killed you?

Sho slams a fist on the kitchen counter, lips pressed in a thin line. Frustration bubbles inside him as curses leave his lips in rapid succession.

You can’t be dead. You can’t. Not when you’ve been working so hard. Not when you’ve been doing everything in your power to survive. Not when you’ve inspired and helped him to the point that he still feels like he has to repay you. Not when he hasn’t done or told you everything he wants to.

“Fuck!” he yells, slamming his fists on the kitchen counter once more.

You jolted when he yelled a curse, slamming a fist on the wall.

“Shit, sorry. Didn’t mean to scare you,” Sho said, sheepishly rubbing the nape of his neck. You were fun to tease and get reactions out of, but that didn’t mean he wanted to scare you.

“What’s the matter, Sho?” you asked, putting down your knife. “Tell me. I might be able to help you.”

“It’s nothing,” Sho started to say, before the look on your face made him stop. He snorted at how displeased you looked. “It’s just that some back order stuff got delayed. I won’t have enough forks for tomorrow.”

“Oh, is that it?” you asked, looking relieved. “I have a bunch of plastic forks back at the cathedral, actually. Do you want me to get them?”

“Huh? Why do you have a bunch of plastic forks laying around?”

“Uh… let’s just say that I had some ordering issues.” You waved a hand to dismiss the question. “Anyway! I can go get them.”

“Nah, let’s go together.” He shuffled around, before pulling out a helmet and tossing it to you. “Here, this helmet’s for you.”

“Oh, this one looks awesome!” you beamed, turning the helmet around in your hands. It was in your favorite color with your favorite patterns. Sho huffed out a laugh at your response. You were so cute sometimes.

“Glad you like it. C’mon.” He pushed the door to the food truck open with his foot. “Let’s go.”

“Okay!”

“After this,” he began, closing and locking the door once you were both out of the food truck, “I got some time today, so I’ll take you somewhere. Anywhere you wanna go.”

He still remembers the way your arms felt around his waist as you clung to him while he drove. He still remembers the way your eyes sparkled watching your favorite scenery. He still remembers how his heart pounded in his chest, the feeling of liberation lifting his spirits, as he drove through the streets with you clinging to him.

Your determination has always felt like freedom to Sho – it’s what inspired him to put more effort into his life at Darkwick. It’s what inspired him to take things more seriously. 

But maybe he should’ve taken things more seriously when he had the chance. Now that you’re gone, so is his chance to prove himself to you. You've gone somewhere too far, somewhere no one else can reach. 

This isn’t the freedom he had envisioned for you.

Whenever Sho gets too emotional, Leo is quick to make fun of him. It's stupid to get too riled up, Leo thinks. The world is boring and easy to manipulate, after all. Why should he get upset? 

Leo has always been able to get what he wants – he even became vice-captain, for fuck's sake. He basically solved Takeru’s case by himself while also trying to get rid of you because your stupid stigma enhancement might overshadow him. Sure, he couldn't get rid of you then but it's not like he can't try again, especially when you keep sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.

But this isn’t how he wanted to get rid of you. Who said you could just die? It’s so stupid. It’s so dumb that it makes Leo feel angry. You stupidly kept going despite his scathing remarks, despite people walking all over you and disrespecting you, so why are you dead? You’re not allowed to be dead.

You still need to help him use Haxs. You still need to be there so he can get a sense of validation when he watches your reactions. You still need to be here because out of everyone on campus, your presence is somewhat tolerable. Who’s he gonna comfortably boss around now?

“Ha ha. You were photobombing one of my pics so I uploaded it and said I had a new girlfriend,” Leo snickered as you brushed his hair. He didn’t think you’d be so good at it, but he found that his hair was smoother when you brushed it. “10K interacts in less than an hour. Suckers.”

“Is that okay?” you asked, making Leo roll his eyes.

“It’s fine, Honor Roll. In fact, shouldn’t you be grateful?”

“That’s not what I meant.” you huffed, tugging his hair lightly as you untangled a knot. It felt nice. “I mean, are you okay? Don’t influencers get harassed if they post about their significant others?”

Leo hated this whole goody-two-shoes act you had going on. Why were you so concerned about him? It wasn’t like he was particularly nice to you and it wasn’t like you necessarily treated him better than you would anyone else. Were you just stupidly nice in general? “Being an influencer means you get hate mail anyway,” he responded, closing out of his social media app. It wasn’t really all that interesting anymore.

“Hm… I see.” You became silent, which made Leo feel oddly annoyed. “People can really suck sometimes.”

Leo snorted. He had been anything but kind to you, really, so he thought you’d have already come to that conclusion a while ago. “It’s whatever. They’re all basic.”

He knew that this was the point where you could say something about him coming to you to talk (which he would never do, barf), but you don’t. Instead, you continue to thread your fingers through his hair gently.

He hated to admit it, but it was relaxing.

“Okay, I think I’m done,” you hummed, removing your hands from him. He noted that it was slightly colder when you left, but chalked it up to the poor heat regulation in Vagastrom. “Oh, and Happy Valentine’s Day, Leo! I got you something.”

Leo turned to you curiously as he combed his fingers through his hair, which definitely felt softer. He gingerly took your offering, before his eyes widened. “This is that ultra-spicy chocolate they only sell this time of year… I’m actually genuinely stoked right now.”

“I’m glad!” you beamed. It was a smile that Leo thought was slightly less ugly than usual. In general, you had been looking slightly less ugly lately, actually. That thought made him feel nauseous.

“Wanna make a bet, Honor Roll?”

You blinked at him, suddenly looking wary. He used to think that expression was so stupid, but now he thought it was kind of cute in a dumb kind of way. “What type of bet…?”

“A bet over which will come first – me falling for you, or you getting hooked on me.”

There’s no conclusive way to find out the end to this bet now, not with you gone. But he thinks you probably got hooked on him first – after all, it’s not like he’s thinks about your stupid laugh or dumb words of encouragement when he feels down or anything. Besides, as far as the internet’s concerned, you’re already dating him.

He briefly thinks about uploading a post about your death. Those suckers online would eat it up, sending him pity and sympathy. But the thought is so unappealing that he drops it. It’s not like your death is gonna matter to other people.

After all, life sucks and then you die, right? It’s just a part of living and he’s not pathetic enough to suddenly miss you. But there’s a disgustingly hollow feeling in his chest as his thoughts ring too loudly. You’re just an NPC – aren’t NPCs supposed to live quietly in the background while the main characters get their character development or whatever? 

Why couldn’t you just quietly live your life like that?

You’re so stupid.

Alan has always felt like a monster. His hands – his stigma – have crushed so many things until they’ve become nothing but dust. He’s never been proud of this strength, not when he causes so many to cower. 

He had expected you to cower, too, especially after he ripped Takeru’s ghost apart in front of you, so lost in the bloodlust. But you hadn’t. You stood by his side with as much care and compassion you could muster. When he wanted to keep looking into the case of Takeru’s ghost even after it was considered “finished” by Darkwick, you offered to help him even though you didn’t need to.

Alan’s never really been a conversationalist, so he didn’t expect you to spend time with him unless it was necessary. Still, he can’t say he dislikes having you around. Even when he’s tinkering with his car, it’s nice to have you sitting nearby, talking about your day.

You’re someone he appreciates – someone who does their best no matter how dire the situation is, someone who strives to do better. How could he not grow fond of how hard you work on a daily basis?

“I pat people on the head a lot? Didn’t notice,” Alan had said, after placing his hand on your hair. He really hadn’t realized – it was a force of habit, especially when you had done such a good job. “I’m doing it again?” he murmured, removing his hand, “...Sorry.”

“It’s nothing you have to be sorry for,” you responded, honestly. “It was just an observation.”

Despite knowing that his hands were akin to weapons, Alan couldn’t help but be drawn to touching you. Unlike him, you were soft and sweet. Still, he felt guilty. He hadn’t ever wanted you to feel uncomfortable, after all. 

“I actually kind of like it when you pat my head,” you said. “You’re really gentle with it, so it makes it feel like I did a good job!”

Alan would never describe his touch as gentle, but he felt like he could believe it if it came from you.“You’re doing a good job.”

“Thanks!” you responded, giving him a big smile that he couldn’t say he had seen from other people. Most other people here had cunning smiles or looked fearful of him. He liked how genuine yours looked. “I can keep trying my best because of you and the others, you know? Thanks a lot.”

Alan couldn’t really recall if he had done anything to receive this type of praise from you, but your words made him feel relaxed. He felt like you helped him feel more human. “I’m lucky I’ve got you,” he said, trying to express his gratitude. “As long as you’re with me, I feel like I won’t lose sight of who I am.”

But now you’re no longer here. It makes Alan scared of himself in a way that he’s never felt before. He had treated you gently, like you were made of glass, because he was scared he’d break you. Yet you weren’t ever scared of him breaking you. Being with you softened up his edges and made him feel more human than monster.

You’re no longer here, though.

Perhaps it has always been his fate to become a monster.

Kaito hasn’t stopped crying since he’s heard the Masterpiece Newscasters relay the news of your death. It hurts so bad. 

Kaito doesn’t think he’s ever been so badly hurt in his life. 

Kaito’s never been one to like pain, which is why he avoids training and going on missions. He wants to be normal and being a ghoul is abnormal. The non-ghouls around him cement that on a daily basis. Yet you’re one of the only non-ghouls who has always treated him kindly no matter what.

Even when he’s a pathetic idiot or a stupid coward, you’ve always been so patient and kind to him. Kaito has liked a lot of girls on a surface level, but his feelings towards you have evolved beyond that. He thinks you’re pretty and lovely and all of that, of course, but more than that, he thinks you’re an amazing person. Amazingly strong, amazingly hard working – you’re someone he values so deeply. Even when he knows he’s being foolish, you’re there by his side because you care about him, aren’t you? So how could he not grow to care about you? You’re the few people that he feels he can truly be close to.

“Whoa, when did it get so late?!” Kaito gasped, looking at the window outside. You two had been baking since noon, but ended up goofing off at some point, delaying the baking process. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to keep you…”

“I’m still good!” you responded, before taking a big bite out of your cookie. While chewing your sweet treat, you offered Kaito a piece, too.

“Really?” Kaito asked, taking the cookie you offered him.

“Yeah, I like spending time with you.”

Your words made Kaito’s heart swell with so much gratitude and affection that he wasn’t entirely sure what to do with himself. He always considered himself lackluster in practically everything, but he felt like he could do better and try to be better because you were there. He couldn’t help the cheesy grin that came onto his face.

“Oh, look, Kaito! The stars look so pretty!”

Kaito looked over at the large window in the kitchen, watching as the stars twinkled in the night sky.

“It kind of looks like granulated sugar if you squint, don’t you think?”

“Yeah, I can see it!” Kaito responded, before tentatively asking, “...Do you like stars?”

“I do,” you replied, taking another bite of your cookie. “Why d’you ask?”

“Oh, um,” Kaito hesitated, feeling a little bashful all of a sudden. You weren’t the type to just reject him harshly, but sometimes Kaito felt nervous in more intimate moments. When you genuinely seemed to return his affections (romantic or not) it made him feel valued as a human being, but it also made him nervous. “I was just wondering ‘cause there’s this place where you can see them really well, so I thought you’d want to go some time…”

“I would love to!” you beamed at him with a smile that could rival the sun. Kaito didn’t think the sun needed to shine if you were around. “You always do find the best places.”

Your words of validation made Kaito feel teary. You’d always been by his side, no matter what. You didn’t have to be his princess or anything like that. In fact, you’d saved him a lot of times before. Still… “I know I’m weak, and a coward,” he began, “But I really do want to become your knight in shining armor.”

In the end, Kaito never could become your knight in shining armor. Not when you’re gone like this. He couldn’t protect you and it tears him up inside. If he had trained and went on missions, would things be different? If so, why couldn’t the other ghouls help you instead? You deserve to be alive – you deserve it so much more than anyone else.

Kaito continues to wail inside his room, frustrated that he’s upset at other people not saving you – it’s him that couldn’t save you. It’s his fault. It’s all his fault and he’ll never be able to make it up to you.

He’ll never become your knight in shining armor.

For the first time since coming to Darkwick, Luca feels numb. He’s not sure how to cope with the fact that your death has come so suddenly. He had promised you that he’d help you absolve your curse, just like you promised him you’d help him subjugate a demon. Yet… you’re gone. You’re not here. You cannot keep your promise to him and he cannot keep his promise to you. It makes him feel hollow.

Luca has always felt that honesty was the best policy, which contributed to his straightlaced nature. He’s been called inconsiderate because of this and he’s lost people who could’ve been his friend. Him being a ghoul hadn’t helped, either, since he was the only ghoul back in Emrys Academy. When he came to Darkwick Academy, all he expected was to learn ways to subjugate a demon. Sure, it would’ve been nice to make friends, but Luca wasn’t going to get his hopes up. Not when he was so set on his goal to find his brother, at least.

Most aren’t understanding of Luca’s honesty and desire to bring back his brother, thinking his one track mind is a hassle. But you’ve never treated him like he was a nuisance. You’ve always greeted him brightly and worked with him. Whether you guys looked for information on curses and demons or practiced meditation for a clearer mind, you’ve been there.

But you’re not going to be there anymore, are you? Not when he’s meditating, not when he’s looking things up in the library, not when he needs the encouragement – you’re not going to be there.

He at least has hope that he’ll be able to bring his brother back. With you, he knows he can never bring you back. You’re gone, forever. You’ll never be there to experience anything with him anymore.

“We have experienced many joys and sorrows together since becoming friends. I’m very glad we met. I look forward to walking the road ahead with you,” Luca had said one day, while you two were meditating. While meditating, Luca couldn’t seem to clear his mind from thinking about you and all you’d done for him, so he thought it was only right for him to express it.

“Me too,” you responded, earnestly. Luca liked talking with you because you were candid with him, but patient. Even when he interrupted your meditation. “You’ve been a great ally to me, so thanks a lot, Luca.” You stretched your arms over your head, before staring at the setting sun. Sometimes, Luca wasn’t sure what went through your head.

“You’ve been a great ally to me as well.” Luca could scarcely remember people who tried as hard as you. He was duty-bound to a fault that he had trouble abandoning his mission, so he had trouble understanding people who wanted to run away. You were one of the few that came back despite wanting to run away. How could he not be impressed with you?

“That makes me glad to hear!” you replied, beaming brightly. Luca liked your smile. It radiated a warmth that reminded him of home. “Let’s keep doing our best!”

“Yes, let’s.” Luca watched as you kept your gaze on the setting sun. The soft colors of the sky were quite a sight to behold, but Luca wasn’t sure why it was distracting you.

“You know, Luca?” you called, as if you could read his mind. “They say that as long as you’re on Earth, you’ll see the same sun as the people you love. Isn’t that nice?”

Luca could be slow to pick up on things sometimes, but he wasn’t stupid. He could tell that those words were meant to console you after you’d been stripped from your family so suddenly (he’d come to understand the reasons for your desire to leave that day when you were working on your first case after many conversations with you). Yet, your words carried an undertone that implied that you told him about the sun to console him as well. Him, who was far from his family. Him, whose brother had gone missing. Him.

Those words were meant for him, but he cannot see the value in them now. Not when you’re no longer on this Earth. Not when you’re no longer alive. The sun still shines so brightly over Darkwick as if undeterred by your death. It pains Luca because time feels like it’s stopped for him, yet the world seems to move on. 

Luca closes his eyes, heart throbbing.

“I’m sorry… Yet again I have failed to protect the people most important to me…”

The first thing Tohma does when he hears of your death is smoke to calm his nerves. He’s counting down the minutes until Jin calls him, but Tohma can’t seem to shake the sudden burst of numbness that shoots through his veins.

He hates to admit it, but your death has shaken him up more than he’d like. Of course, he’ll have to hide it. He’ll have to get a hold of himself – especially since everyone else will be in a tizzy. But even though he knows this, he’s having a hard time controlling his own emotions.

You’re the only one who is stupidly earnest in everything you do, allowing him bits of amusement in his life. You’re the only one that’s helped him feel like he could forget everything he’s got to do and be. You’re the only one who tries to lift the burden on his shoulders. You’re the only one and it makes Tohma’s lungs feel empty.

What vermin had killed someone as lovely as you?

“Welcome to high society,” Tohma had said, taking your hand in his for a dance. “That outfit suits you well. With that poise, you’ll have no trouble fitting in here.” And he was right, you looked beautiful, like the belle of the ball.

“Aha, sure,” you murmured, wincing as you stepped on his foot. “Oh god, I’m so sorry! I’m still so bad at this…”

“Inexperience is not a crime,” Tohma responded, twirling you in his arms. “The important thing is choosing to not remain ignorant when you don’t know something.” While most would assume Tohma was talking about your dancing capabilities, you knew that he meant something beyond that, too. You were smart like that, after all, and so hardworking. You chose to not remain ignorant.

“You’re right.” You nodded. “I’m gonna do my best.”

“I look forward to your efforts,” he hummed. “And in times of difficulty, I hope you’ll turn to those around you for help. I will be there to keep you safe.”

Tohma takes another drag of his cigarette, watching as the smoke fills the room. He told you he’d protect you. He told you, didn’t he? And yet he couldn’t.

Perhaps a lowly servant like him could never have protected you in the first place.

At the news of your death, Jin’s first move is to slash though the expensive furniture in his room, unsure of where else to let his emotions explode. His hand tightens around his sword as he stabs his sword in the ground, visualizing whoever had the audacity to touch what is his.

How dare they hurt you? How dare they take you away from him?

You, who’s been so stupidly obedient to him without any expectation of riches or glory. You, who’s been stupidly kind to him despite his terse nature. You, who’s been by his side without complaint as long as he ordered it. 

“...I was too active yesterday. Massage me, servant,” Jin muttered, rolling onto his stomach to give access to his back. Without a word of complaint, you do as you’re told, though Jin couldn’t say you could be a masseuse anytime soon. “...What the hell was that? Put some muscle into it.”

“What? I’ve been told I give really good massages, though.”

Jin frowned. “From?”

“My dad.”

Jin snorted out a laugh. “Try harder.”

“Fine, fine,” you muttered, stretching your arms in front of you. “I’m gonna put my back into it!” Jin wondered if you’d actually be able to give him a proper massage, but the effort in itself was amusing (cute, even). Still, regardless of your massages, it was nice to have your hands on his back. He liked being close to you. “How was that?”

“It was fine.”

“What!” you exclaimed, incredulous, before grumbling, “You give a guy a massage and all he does is say it’s bad. Not even a word of thanks.”

With how you were yapping, you must’ve gotten quite comfortable with him. Jin couldn’t say he disliked it. “Never learn, do you?” he asked, rolling onto his back so that he can pull you on to the bed next to him. “I don’t take you being here for granted. I know it won’t last forever.”

Your eyes widened. “Huh?”

“That’s all I’m going to say.”

“Wha– you’re so–” you huffed, before shaking your head, seemingly pleased. “Fine, you win, your majesty. I suppose it's time for this servant to leave.” You made a move to get up, but Jin stopped you.

“I’ve got plans early tomorrow. Your house is too far. Stay here tonight.”

He still can’t forget the way you looked that night – bashful, sweet. He wanted to lock you in with him so that he could have you for as long as possible. Maybe he should’ve. He never took your existence for granted, valuing every second he’s spent with you, but when he said that he knew that your relationship wouldn’t last forever, he never thought it’d be because someone killed you. The thought makes hot rage course through his veins again.

He’s going to kill whatever bastard took you from him.

.

.

.

Faintly, your sage’s ring glows on your finger. 

It asks you a question it’s asked you many times before: “What do you desire?”

You answer the question exactly as you’ve answered it before: “I want to go back.”

The sage ring glows brighter in response.

You wake up on a train.

Your phone beeps.

[lirational]

Eleven thirsts,

Hmmm I’d imagine alpha!Eleven to be quite possessive of her omega as well as partake in exhibitionism

Like imagine she’s fucking you during a stream, not only showing you off to everyone but also showing everyone that you are hers and that she alone can only bring you this pure sexual bliss

I’d also like to think she’s the clingy aftercare type. Cuddling and kissing you after you two finish a couple rounds of love making

Very cute in my opinion

(Unbeta’d) smut under the cut. Minors DNI!

Disclaimer that I am only halfway through the event, sorry!

Warnings: Exhibitionism, Eleven has a cock (obviously), knotting.

It was like the barrier between your thoughts and your lips were demolished, each thrust of Eleven’s cock causing you to shudder and grip the edges of the table tighter, tighter until you swore you could feel something shatter beneath your fingers.

She savored each sharp intake of breath, each gasp as you felt her thrust hitting that sweet, sweet spot inside you, each whisper of her name, and each plea torn between wanting her to stop or to continue, her teasing remarks adding fuel to the fire as she answered the questions from people who were calling her. It was late at night, making it almost all too easy to convince anyone that there was really nothing else going on, as Eleven answered their questions with her usual friendly demeanor. She was fully in her element, a contrast to you, where each slow thrust were a battle to keep your voice down and hopefully not make a fool of yourself—

A press on the bulge on your lower belly obliterated your thoughts, as you let out a loud, unmistakable moan, shattering all semblance of dignity you managed to scrounge up.

“There is no need to be nervous, you’re already singing for everyone here, right?” She whispered, each word from her sinful tongue intensifying the scent of camellia in the air, clinging onto your senses to obscure everything else. Eleven was quick to tease the current caller when they asked what was going on, and yet, you cannot afford to feel bad for the clueless caller as they became flustered, stuttering an apology as they hung up the phone, the suddeness of it causing a couple of beeps.

“Well, it seems our caller ‘D’ here chose to not continue our call. Regardless, I wish them good luck in their romantic endeavors.”

There was a devious lilt to her voice as she gripped your hips tight, a low groan escaping her as she sheathed herself fully to the hilt.

“Oh, what is it? I should make a segment where I give advice? Thank you, I might consider it,”

Drool had escaped the corner of your lips, sweat dripping to the scripts she had set up as aid, yet she didn’t seem to mind, treating each thrust as a game, until not even her prowess could hide what was going on in the room.

Crimson lit up your cheeks at the thought.

“Oh, you like this, my little omega? Both of us teetering on the, aah, brink of discovery?” She whispered, her voice low. She was close, you could feel how her body tremble, how her cock twitches inside you as you both teeter closer to a satisfying release. “So insatiable, so good, and all mine, close and caged together with me~”

With the final word, she bit on the nape of your neck, bruising your skin as you felt her paint your insides with white, enough to fill you to the brim. Her release heralded your own, as you saw white not a few seconds later, creating a mess of stringy white on her dress, your voice practically telling everyone that you two were locked by the hip the whole time. Despite the challenge, Eleven didn’t even frown, as she stared at the mixture of your mess staining her clothes with eyes full of desire.

“You did so good, good girl, all for me,” she murmured onto your skin, tenderly kissing the dip of your shoulder in a gesture of pure affection. A quick farewell marked the end of her stream, then she pressed you against her shoulder, ruffling your head as she tells you to rest for now until she could pull herself out of you.

As you closed your eyes, she eyed where her cock were buried inside you, humming in satisfaction at the mixture of fluids.

Perhaps, both of you could take a warm bath later.

[danieyells]

Think about this idea! It's been almost a year and you didn't find the anomaly or how to solve your curse, most of the boys know but aren't really keeping track, a year is so far away and it slips away so fast but suddenly the MC one day starts skipping some classes or acting odd so one of the boys (for special angst one who has a crush on mc but didn't confess yet) ask them what is going on and they fall in the realization when they say "one week left"

I was trying to take a nap when i remembered this ask and this idea clawed its way into my head. So hey.

It's not quite what your idea was, but I hope you like it anyway, anon.

Frostheim.

Vagastrom.

Jabberwock.

Sinostra.

Hotarubi.

Obscuary.

Mortkranken.

Even the previously missing Dionysia ghouls.

You'd met and bonded with all of the ghouls in Darkwick, and even a few outside of it. You'd gone on missions. You'd even begun to get the ghouls to capture anomalies instead of kill them. The anomalies were being studied and discoveries were being made.

But none relating to your own curse.

The Gala came and went, the Laurel Crown awarded. The third years had moved on to become fourth years. You'd had many hard and tearful goodbyes. Promises to meet again that you hoped could come true. Some more firm understandings that this was goodbye, and wishes of good luck.

Soon the new first years would be coming and they would be assigned their houses.

Soon. . . .

"Dandelion?" The temporary Captain of Jabberwock leaned over to stare at you, a curious look on his face. Towa had been inconsolable for a while after Haru had left, and Jabberwock had been plagued by violent storms of snow and hail and lightning. Eventually it all calmed down. You hoped the quieter and natural atmosphere of Jabberwock could heal your stressing heart. All it did was leave you to your thoughts. Thoughts that must have shown on your face. Towa seemed to have had gotten over his own problems, and seemed back to his usual self. His arms looped around you, feeling like warmth and sunshine incarnate. No wonder plants lived him so much. "Here you go! A hug to make your sad face go away!"

You laugh weakly. But it doesn't take the dread away. You turn into him and smell the sweet and floral scent about him, clinging and trying to hide your woes so he wouldn't begin to feel bad again. You thank him, and he gives you a squeeze.

"That didn't help?" Somehow you felt bad for not reassuring him. "What's the matter? Do you miss Haru too?"

You did miss Haru. You missed all your friends and loved ones.

You were going to miss all of your friends and loved ones.

"Whaddyou mean? Tell me." He gave you a squeeze of encouragement. You choked back a sob, but barely managed to whimper out your woes.

"One week left. . . ."

"One week. . .?" In one week the new first years would arrive and be assigned their houses. In one week, it will have had been a year since that concert, since that anomaly, since-- "Oh! Your curse!!"

Part of you wanted to feel angry at how Towa didn't seem bothered by it. He cuddled you, petting your hair. "You're gonna die soon, huh?"

How blunt. He was like this a lot, dismissive about life. Sometimes it scared you, but in ways it was comforting to hear it said so straightforward. Yes, you were going to die soon. Someone said it. Someone acknowledged it. Someone remembered.

"That's okay! Everybody dies eventually!"

"But I don't want to die, Towa!" You cry, snapping your head up to look at him desperately. He parted his lips as of in surprise. "I'm not ready to die! I-- I--"

"Hmm." Towa looked at you with contemplative pity. "So you don't wanna die yet? You wanna keep living?"

You nod. Did Towa think so little of his own life that he couldn't comprehend wanting it to continue? Or was he just that unempathetic? Maybe you didn't mean much to him, and he didn't care if you were gone the way he cared when Haru left.

"Why don't you ask me for help?"

What?

"What do you mean?" You looked at him inquisitively. Towa smiled back down at you, beguiling, lavender hair framed by an inky black sky.

"Why don't you ask me to save you? So you don't die as soon."

You shook your head. "Towa, I was cursed by some anomaly--we never found another one like it, I--I can still remember its eye and nothing that erases my memory works to make me forget. Everytime I close my eyes lately I see it like--like it's coming after me, like it's getting closer. I see that eye in other people's eyes, I--"

"Do you see it in mine?" It's eerily still and quiet in Jabberwock today. You look in his eyes. It's easy, like nothing but you two exists right now. "Is it there?"

"No." You swallow. You don't remember standing. You don't remember Towa standing, either. "No, it's not."

"I can help you. I promise." Why was it so dark? The sky wasn't clouded, and Towa wasn't upset. You didn't remember it being dark when you came here. The warmth of the sun was your only comfort alone with your thoughts. "You just have to ask me. Ask me to help you."

"But. . .how will you help me?" As a matter of fact, it was midday when you came here, wasn't it? Why could Towa talk in the first place. "What can you do that no one else could? Wh-why didn't you say something sooner?"

"Do you want me to grant your wish? Or not?" You could see Towa clearly, but the deep darkness around you reflected no light in his eyes. It reminded you of being in the sunken ship disguised as an undersea palace, when those anomalies tried to keep you from leaving. You didn't feel cold like that time though. You felt warm. You almost felt safe.

"I. . .I. . . ." Something told you to run away. For a moment, you saw the anomaly's eye again. Towa looked irritated, and suddenly it was gone, as if frightened away. You heard thunder crack in the distance. "I want to live. . . ."

"Tell me what you wish for." He smiled at you. It was welcoming and pitying. Like finding a lost child. "I'll keep your safe."

His face was very close, your eyes locked in his. You felt weaker than ever with him holding you like this. The words spilled out of your mouth.

"I wish my curse was gone. . .I wish I could live. . .please help me, Towa. . . ."

Towa smiled and pet your hair. Then he stepped back from you. You clung to his sleeves, afraid of being abaoned to the emptiness around you. Between you, a pale plant grew to eye level, flowering before your very eyes.

"Eat it."

The plant moved itself to your mouth. You parted your lips, allowing it in, and closed your teeth and lips around it like you'd done with so many plants Towa fed you. It ripped itself away from you, and you chewed it. Your mouth was filled with complex flavors, sweet and bitter and painful and unfamiliar. Your senses were filled with something soft and numbing. But you still felt the strong press of Towa's lips on yours, pushing the flower down your throat. Somehow, you didn't gag from the pressure.

When you swallowed, a wave of nausea hit you. The sickly feeling was followed by electricity, jolting through your mouth and down your throat and up your spine, into your stomach and brain. You felt it travel to the tips of your fingers and pores, arcing across every hair along your body.

And then the sharp pain and blast of fog filled your head.

It felt like roots implanting themself through your whole body, as if replacing every part of your nervous system. You opened your mouth ask what was happening, but all that left you was a scream so loud it hurt your throat. Your eyes and face burned with your tears.

You dug your nails into Towa's arms as he pulled Way, and he watched on without helping as you began to vomit. It hurt. All of this hurt. You vomited burning and freezing mud, and what you vaguely grasped to be seeds. The empty world around you seemed to consume the mess, drinking it up and burying the seeds into the invisible earth.

As you heaved and gasped when it finally came down, you watched another plant grow. This one was familiar. It flowered quickly, and you remembered the flowers of the anomaly that cursed you. You saw them flower and grow, and you gasped, yanking your hands away from Towa to cover your eyes.

Not again, you didn't want to see the eye again.

It wasn't until you heard lightning and hail, feeling the fall of it directly in front of you that you realized you couldn't remember how the eye looked anymore. The memory was simply gone.

"Did you feel it? It was like being struck by lightning, right?" Towa's voice echoed around you jovially. "That means we're soulmates now. Because your soul is mine now. Our pact is sealed. And your curse is gone."

"Wha--ow. . . ." You snapped your head up, pulling your hands away from your eyes to look at Towa, only to shield your eyes from the bright, warm sun of Jabberwock. It burned, after being in the dark so long--and after the sensory overload after eating that flower. Looking down and shielding your eyes from the light, you saw something smouldering between yours and Towa's feet, surrounded by charred petals. "What. . .what did you do, Towa. . .?"

Towa made an inquisitive sound at you, tilting his head. He once again looked innocent. He once again couldn't speak under the light of day. He smiled and giggled, covering your eyes and kissing you again, humming happily against your lips. From being around him for over a year you'd already begun to understand him when he couldn't speak. He was reassuring you. You'll be okay, he says. You don't need to be afraid anymore.

"But. . .my soul. . .a pact. . .like a. . .?"

Like a demon?

Was Towa a demon?

He pat you on the back, silently saying not to worry. And then, he leapt into the air, off to somewhere else in the former safari area, leaving you to pull yourself together.

The eye was gone from your mind. You couldn't remember anything besides the flowers and their charred state in the beautiful green grass of Jabberwock.

You held your stomach, feeling it knot with nerves.

The curse was gone. You'd live. . .but now your life was in Towa's hands.

You began to leave Jabberwock, turning over in your head how you would tell Cornelius what happened. You'd made a pact with a demon to spare your life. . .but the demon was on campus. He was a threat. He had power. A lot of power.

The moment you started to consider telling them it was Towa, you screamed out in pain. Electricity ran through your very existence, not just your body but your soul too. A warning.

You caught your breath where you collapsed in the grass, one of the anomalous animals nervously sniffing at you until your rising startled it into fleeing. Right. You couldn't share who the demon was. But you could say there had been one and that your life was safe now. . that you were aware of.

Once your shaking legs were steady and the phantom pain subsided, you made your way out into the main grounds and towards the main building. It was probably important that you share the news. . .whether or not it was good.

[our-lesboy-experience]

HELLOOO AGAIN! Ive been thinking abt this all day so I was wondering if had an opinion abt this? how do u feel abt cis men identifying as lesbians? /genq just wanted to hear what someone thought abt this

I've seen this asked a lot and it's also the point where some people start getting a bittt exclusionary (more so in a way they don't think deeper about it, because "how can a cis man experience queer attraction to women?" rather than something hateful)

for starters, "cis" is generally identifying with the gender assigned to you at birth (though im aware of intersex and detrans experiences that deviate from this). A person can both identify with their birth gender and other genders. a cis man can also be a trans woman. a cis woman can also be a trans man. obviously I'm talking about multigender people, and "cistrans" is a term for a reason

secondly, have you....EVER heard of a completely binary, cisgender man, seriously identifying with and feeling like he's a lesbian (no joke whatsoever) who 100% insists he's cis? there's definitely not a lot and not enough to raise a whole scandal about it

thirdly, many people have commented that they have heard of or they themselves felt connection to lesbian identity before realizing they were a trans woman. if a supposed cis man is seriously feeling like a lesbian.....then maybe that person is a trans woman? and we should give that person space to figure it out instead of getting mad about it?

and lastly, im not the type to throw a fit over someone identifying in good faith and certainly not in a way im probably never going to see. if a cis man actually feels as if he's a lesbian then I would just wish him luck in figuring things out for himself. it really doesn't affect me whatsoever, and drawing a hard line between "valid belonging trans women lesbians" and "invalid invading cis men lesbians" will never help anyone and from actual trans women I've seen say this, it just makes it harder for them to accept themselves and not feel like they're intruding on a space they don't belong in. just leave people with identities you don't understand alone

tldr; if a cis man seriously feels like a lesbian you should just wish him luck on his journey of self-discovery, and there's so few of them that it's pretty much a non-issue + multigender cistrans people exist

[arrowsperpetualcringe]

https://www.tumblr.com/arrowsperpetualcringe/716483661130874880/hehehehehe Hoe does Mario meet Knight!Luigi?

Hi hey hello omg someone's actually asking about this au---

I'm panicking for no reason but also I'm so excited and so happy to share!!!

So, tbh, there's no need for Knight!Luigi and Mario to "meet", and by that I mean--- Luigi and Mario were never seperated and they already know eachother.

Luigi's whole deal, and the reason he was able to become a knight in the first place, is that he kinda... just sorta moved out.

Let me explain: He in this au, Luigi of course loves Mario dearly, that's his twin brother, his main man, his bestfriend, his homeslice breadslice dog. However, after retrieving some subpar treatment, he decided to seperate from Mario, and go his own little journey of self discovery. He's never been apart from Mario. And though he's scared, he's terrified even, he wants to know who he's capable of being on his own. So he leaves to go journey, Mario of course wishes him good luck, but is SO fucking nervous something bad will happen to him and encourages him to write him.

(More Backstory under cut cause this post is looooong)

Most of his journey is fine, and well and good, until he gets dundundunnn caught by Bowser. (For the purposes of this au, let's imagine that Kamek freed and unshrunken him post Mario Movie)--- So, he catches Luigi to get revenge, but at this point he's developed a bit more of a backbone and some serious skills to defend himself, so he almost escapes the castle, but is stopped by Bowser himself, who--- in a twist of fate is impressed by his skill.

Basically the interaction that follows goes "Ayo I'll let you live if you work for me" "I'm still very terrified of you so bet" (ofc he's plotting to return the whole while, but needs to find a time when it's safe)

So now mans lives in the castle with Bowser, and he gets training to really hone his skills--- they gradually get used to eachother, and since this is a Bowuigi centric au, yall already know the deal fr.

SORRY I got SO incredibly sidetracked, but since I already wrote all this I ain't deleting it--- to get to the core of the question---

If Mario were to ever meet Luigi in his knight formmmm hmmm.

If he were to meet while Luigi was doing some on duty shit with Bowser watching, he'd have to resort to going completely nonverbal to avoid being recognized--- in my very first post about Knight!Luigi he can avoid being recognized as his usual self by switching from an italian accent to a brooklyn one, but--- seeing as Mario knows his brother, and knows his voice, he'd recognize either one. This would probably give off an impression of a really intimidating, serious and skilled Knight to the opposition, when really Weggy just tryna to avoid being recognized---

If they just happened to cross paths with no eyes on them, Luigi would shed the mask SO fucking quick and give him a hug. Though, since Luigi has risen through the ranks and became very known as someone to be feared in his persona, this would leave Mario both very relieved, and VERY confused.

and uuuuh

yeah that's it.

OH wait

One more thing.

In this au, Luigi's Knight persona is just known as "Knight Guy"

everyone assumes he's a really weird shy guy and no one bats a fucking eye FOEJROFEJROJ

TL;DR: They'd most likely meet in a battlefield. If on duty, they just sorta,,, duke it out (Luigi will refuse to hurt Mario though) If off duty, hug time.

[yanderes-galore]

May I please request cult lamb were the lambs darling is another lamb?

Sure! I actually like this idea :)

Yandere! The Lamb with Lamb! Darling

Short Concept

Pairing: Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Isolation, Fear of abandonment, Obsession, Mentions of having children but it's vague as you're both GN, Forced relationship, Clingy behavior, Overprotective behavior.

Lambs have been hunted by The Bishops to prevent the old prophecy of the chained one.

The Lamb thinks that they are the last one to the slaughter.

The Bishops themselves think that is true.

It turns out they were all wrong.

The Lamb can't believe their eyes when they see you.

Losing (almost) their entire kind really messed with their psyche.

Yet here you are, in front of them, a lamb with soft wool and innocent eyes compared to their haunting ones.

You're just as surprised to see another of your kind.

You've been hiding in the shadows in fear of being found and slaughtered.

Desperately, perhaps even naivély, you ask for their protection.

Surely with the Red Crown they will be able to make things right?

The Lamb eagerly accepts you into their flock.

You'll even notice them absentmindedly stroking your wool, yearning for a feeling of familiarity.

Honestly, The Lamb would feel more attached to a darling who's also a lamb like them.

After all, you both are the only ones of your species.

They'd want to catch your eye, somewhat hopeful of bringing lambs back into the land.

As a result their attempts at your attention are stronger than normal.

They're eager, often hovering around you.

The followers of The Lamb also praise you, being a lamb like their leader.

You are happy you found a surviving member of your kind...

Although you do wish they were less eager to court you.

The gifts, affection, and constant attention get overwhelming after awhile.

The Lamb does not understand your hesitance.

To them the best thing to do is keep you beside them.

Lambs must stay together in their herd.

Oh, TOWW finds this little discovery interesting.

It appears his vessel has found another of their kind.

What luck.

TOWW finds the desperation of The Lamb towards you amusing.

What would they do if you passed on... you lack immortality like them.

Perhaps they'd beg?

Maybe they'd ask the bishop of death for mercy?

TOWW promises if The Lamb is good for him, your life will be as long as theirs.

Honestly, being a lamb like The Lamb would probably be overwhelming.

The similarities are nice...

But The Lamb is so scared to be alone again that they cling to you.

They have so much power in their cult.

Who are you to turn to?

Your life is stuck in the camp.

Safe from predators, safe from death...

The Lamb feels since they have the power to control who lives and who dies with TOWW, they know what's best.

It's not like you'll fight them-

Lambs tend to be submissive creatures... The Lamb is simply different due to TOWW.

As they hold your face and stroke your wool... they bleat towards you.

A sound meant to be comforting...

The Lamb feels like family... perhaps even a future partner.

You just wish they gave you more of a choice instead of suffocating you in their desperation and loneliness like it's love.

[fairy-verse]

Do the firstborns play any instruments or find themselves fond of any human creations?

Ink (despite seeming to hold a not-so-secret grudge) absolutely loves human creations, though he is especially fond of utensils, such as forks and spoons. He also really likes intricate belts, especially those that have other things hanging from them that go clink, clink, clink when the humans walk about. He’s stolen many, many things from the Big Folk, and he’s hung many of them up in various trees as decorations. They’re an omen of bad luck for any Big Folk that enter his forest, because they’re a sign that that certain area is often frequented by Ink himself, and that is no good thing for them.

He likes to play wooden instruments that make deep, sometimes rumbling noises, though it is the flute he excels at, and its sound is the first thing the Big Folk will hear – if they take care to listen – when Spring finally begins its arrival. It will echo through the hills, past the trees, and over the mountains as it causes the ice to melt and break, and the snow to turn into flowing water as the grass so green begins to stand up to greet the warming sun.

Nightmare doesn’t play any instruments and isn’t too fond of human creations… until the pipe organ is invented. He only needed to hear it once to find it wonderful to listen to, and he’d have a copy made straight away; once he learned how it was constructed. It was built in a naturally formed cavern beneath his Underground nest, and there he sometimes likes to go and play it, making the very earth around him tremble with awed shudders. He tends to lose himself in the moment and has been known to miss hours and hours until someone comes to remind him that he needs to return to his duties.

He is also enchanted by the discovery of the astrolabe and the compass, and he just might have had some of his fairies steal them for him. He also has a human-sized book with illustrations depicting the inside of a giant castle, and the words describing it are attention-grabbing to be sure.

Dream plays the harp and the effect it has on other fairies and Big Folk alike is strikingly clear; it’s enthralling. You’ll hear no other sound like it ever again, less it is from him. Unless you’re a fairy you might just run the risk of losing your mind once you’ve heard it, as its effect has a way of glazing your eyes with a golden glow for as long as it plays, and you’ll see the world in a near heavenly light that makes everything just look so… enchanting. It’s not strange that any Big Folk who experiences this will feel grief-stricken once the music stops and the effect goes away. Everything just looks so… dull and dark after that, and those who’re unable to cope with it go mad from the search of finding it again.

He doesn’t know too much about human creations since he doesn’t travel near the borders these days, but a few years back he’d seen a human with a very intricate chest in his hands that held some warped silver coins, a scroll, and some gunpowder in a small purse. He only knows this because he snatched the chest – with some help – whilst the man wasn’t looking. He still has it hidden within a hollow hole in his willow tree.

Error might despise humans and pretend to hate everything they do and make, but he can’t deny it to himself that he likes their wooden and woollen creations, especially those he sees around the time of the winter solstice. Shapes of stars and circles made from twigs and strings are strangely appealing, dried orange slices and wheat goats decorated with red ribbons make him tilt his head in fascination. The only Big Folk creation he’s sought out and stolen was a deep blue glass sphere with a hollow room inside of it. The reason for this theft was solely because he witnessed one of the strange Big Folk traditions where they all held one of these spheres in their hands as they walked in a line, singing softly about light wishes and hopes of peaceful times to come. He found it all oddly… beautiful, especially since their singing seemed to make the glass spheres glow a pretty dark blue. He’ll never admit (not even to himself) that he’s fond of this tradition, but the Big Folk did notice that the winter winds calmed significantly after this specific day.

He does not play any instruments, but his singing is the sound of the freezing ice expanding and thickening on the lakes on cold days, and that is a particularly special kind of instrument, so, in a way, Error himself is an instrument of music; the one of winter itself, you could say.

[your-ne1ghbor]

Yayyyyy! Questions!!

(Forgive me if you’ve already made posts about some of these ;-;)

✨✨✨✨✨✨

1. How was Asha adopted into royalty? Does she remember anything from her biological parents?

2. How does the realm where stars live work? What’s your Starboy’s relationship with the other stars? Are they family? Is he Isolated?

3. Amaya backstory. Is her eye injury related to a star?

4. Mind explaining the monster creature thing that Magnifico has chained up?

5. How do Wishing Ceremonies work in your AU? Or would you rather keep that as a surprise for now?

6. How old are each of the characters?

7. Are you going to write out your story or is it through art dumps or animatics? What’s the duration of your story? Days? Weeks? Months?

8. Which Wish AU do you think the characters of your AU would most get along with? Which one would they get along with the least?

9. How are you placing the 7 teens in your plot?

10. Sorry. Random thought. Buuuuuut. I think you’ve mentioned your Starboy not knowing what pain felt like until he went down to Earth. Which is a sad and startling discovery, I’ll say.

Meanwhile, Sueño is just there, familiar with pain as an old friend of theirs. Imagine them just staring at TKoRaT!Star and just go: “First time?”

✨✨✨✨✨

And before I leave, let me sprinkle some positivity and good luck in your workplace before bidding you adieu~

Oo love the questions @flicklikesstuff ✨️

1.) How was Asha adopted into royalty? Does she remember anything from her biological parents?

Amaya found her at the "kingdoms doorsteps". I made a post about it here.

Asha does remember some things about her biological parents, like how her father playing music seemed to make the sound dance in the air as her mother drew images that always seemed to move and glow in a way when they told her stories. But that's all she remembers about her parents. Only what they did, not for the stories about the stars and warnings they gave about the royal couple.

2. How does the realm where stars live work? What’s your Starboy’s relationship with the other stars? Are they family? Is he Isolated?

I vaguely know how the Star Realm works, but is somewhat works like @oh-shtars star realm, but still different enough to be its own thing. Something about the star realm is that there are multiple worlds, or to them, islands that each hold a lake and a wishing tree. Inspired by Neverland from Peter Pan. The lake is basically the entrance to the human realm. But one simply cannot enter the lake unless wished apon. This is where the wishing tree comes in. The wishing tree holds the wishes of the people. These wishes take shape into a ribbon shape form, which is really how they can enter the "Middle World" I call it. (Human realm just sounds weird since there are other things in that realm that isn't just humans, but monsters as well). The ribbons call the star when they are wished apon from that world, which all they have to do is take the ribbon off the tree and enter the lake. They go through like a transportaion like from the movie Enchanted to enter the world. Ofc, the star doesn't have to accept it. If a star doesn't accept the wish, the wish would fade away and later will be forgotten. Some worlds are sometimes too dangerous to enter (like the world Asha resides in) or the wishing tree is too withered away due to the less amount of dreams people are dreaming from. Wishing trees thrive with the dreams and wishes of people. It doesn't have to be told to have the tree thrive. If told to the sky, a ribbon appears if that makes sense. Plus, the lake can also be a source of looking into that world, like knowing what they are getting into before entering it with the ribbon. Stars have to have the ribbon with them at all times. Luckily, only the user can take off the ribbon, which makes the star return to the sky. Another way for a star to return to the sky is if the wish is granted. The ribbon will fade, and thus, the star will fade back into their world.

Star Boys relationship with the other stars is basically them treating each other with care like a family!

...At least...when he was little. After he "helped" his first wish (it went terribly wrong), the stars started to not trust him with wish granting/guiding. It's more of they want him to learn how to use his powers responsibly. But even when he did, they still worry that the same thing will happen again. So they told him he is too dangerous to actually help anyone. Especially in Asha's world. Her world is too dangerous for stars (Maggy in the corner as he grows in anger to the stars is a prime example of that)

3. Amaya backstory. Is her eye injury related to a star?

I want to go into a different post about her overall backstory, but her eye injury is somewhat related to the star. She and some guards ran into the duo to stop them from killing the people that resided in Rosas, but she gotten her eye taken out in the process.

4. Mind explaining the monster creature thing that Magnifico has chained up?

It isn't necessarily chained up, more of him sending it back to hell since it should stay there and where it came from. The monster is something I dubbed "Star Eaters." It isn't because they eat stars, no, it more called that way due to the positive essence that the stars give off when they enter the Middle World, which is something they feed off from: Positive Emotions. They are a combination of restless souls that can never move on unless they eat positive emotions. The positive emotions works as some sort of healing processes the souls go through in order to move on. If the eat someone's positive emotions, it doesn't really kill them, it more leaves the person in a more depressed state, somewhat like how Mag steals the wishes that leaves them in a more depressed state too.

5. How do Wishing Ceremonies work in your AU? Or would you rather keep that as a surprise for now?

Well...

What do you think?

6. How old are each of the characters?

Idk yet, I haven't really figured that part out yet lmao 😭

7. Are you going to write out your story or is it through art dumps or animatics? What’s the duration of your story? Days? Weeks? Months?

I already answered the 1st part of the question in another post.

The duration of the story I'm not entirely sure yet. It maybe be possibly within a month or 2.

8. Which Wish AU do you think the characters of your AU would most get along with? Which one would they get along with the least?

This one is hard cause it varies for each of the main 4.

TKORAT Mag would probably ask RFTS Mag for notes he took when he picked and abused Sueño as TKORAT Amaya would probably sympathize with RFTS Amaya. She would 100% Enjoy seeing Sueño getting abused tho 💀

Star would really get along with Sueño but would give him a hug and become horrified of that mag in the process of knowing him. Plus after he gets stabbed, Sueño would ver much sympathize with his situation. TKORAT Asha relates to RFTS Asha and enjoys how she cares for people, but also doesn't understand it as RFTS Asha relates to her shy side of her😭

FS AU is also something cause TKORAT Mag and Amaya would see FS Mag and Amaya as their former selves. People who care and greets the world with open arms (before they become the villains) and relates to how they lost their home due to the stars. They basically find them a bit nostalgic, meanwhile FS Mag and Amaya would probably be horrified of them. They went through basically the same thing but instead became the worse versions of themselves. They would probably have the most arguments between them.

FS Asha would be in shock that TKORAT Asha actually KNOWS magic but also disapproves of what TKORAT Asha does to the wishes as TKORAT Asha would probably die. I don't necessarily see them getting along well, but I also see them getting along? Idk I'm mixed on that. Ceilo and TKORAT Star would probably become BSF tbh. (Polieties and Telamecus be like) 😭

WG Star and TKORAT Star would get along very well on the same levels as FS Star. WG Asha meanwhile is just worries for TKORAT Asha's mental state as TKORAT Asha envies her support system 💀

WG Mag and Amaya and TKORAT Mag and Amaya is something idk entirely at the moment, but they probs plot some very devious plans together.

TWK Mag and Amaya would be annoyed at the fact that they went out of their way to kill Asha's parents instead of doing it later on and TKORAT Mag and Amaya would be annoyed that they kidnapped Asha instead of killing her grandparents then gaslight her. Idk I see them being annoyed at each other. TKORAT Asha would probably feel sympathy to TWK Asha's situation and TWK would probably avoid her due to what she does to the wishes.Idk much on TWK Star a the moment, so I probs need to read up on that.

@annymation 's AU Mag and Amaya would not get along with TKORAT Mag and Amaya. They see them as "too nice" for their status but approves on what they do to their kingdom meanwhile TKORAT Mag and Amaya cannot tolerate them at all. They find them annoying.

Her Asha would see the villains in her universe be somewhat the embodiment of what they do into TKORAT Asha. Sure, TKORAT Asha crushes wishes, but I see that causing some flashbacks to them absorbing Star's powers and let him die in front of her so TKORAT Asha would avoid her to not remind her of that. TKORAT Star is just curious on Aster's shape-shifting abilities as Aster is with him.

Now @spectator-zee 's Asha and TKORAT Asha would get along very well. They both relate to each other the most in my eyes. Both are just on the same level of isolation and enjoys each other's company.

Orion and TKORAT Star are homies to me. Don't ask why, they just are.

9. How are you placing the 7 teens in your plot?

Like I said in another post, I'm not entirely sure yet.

10. Sorry. Random thought. Buuuuuut. I think you’ve mentioned your Starboy not knowing what pain felt like until he went down to Earth. Which is a sad and startling discovery, I’ll say.

Meanwhile, Sueño is just there, familiar with pain as an old friend of theirs. Imagine them just staring at TKoRaT!Star and just go: “First time?”

(@oh-shtars sueño is comforting star hehe)

Yeah...pretty much.

Here's the thing. The way I am framing the "stabbing" if you call it, is basically his empathetic side coming into play.

Anyone he had hurt or hell, Maggy's pain, he felt all of the grief washing over him when he got stabbed.

I very muched liked how I framed it, it's just that it is a very huge part of the story and I probably won't be able to spoil it until I know what I am writing 💀

Anyways, thank you so much for the questions! I very much had a fun time answering them :D

[stargazer-sims]

Professor Belle

Belle: Félix, can I go with you to the excavation site tomorrow?

Félix: Of course, but I'll need you to stay with me the whole time. I have a new group of students, and they'll need to focus. I don't want them thinking they have to babysit you.

Belle: No one has to babysit me. I'm a member of the research team. Right?

Félix: Yes, but the students might be skeptical of that. Not every person your age is as responsible and intelligent as you, and unfortunately, some people have a tendency to prejudge.

Belle: Well, that’s just dumb.

Davian: *laughing* It's good to know the youngest member of the research team can still act like a ten year old.

Belle: I'm responsible and intelligent, but nobody said I was a grownup.

Davian: Fair point.

Félix: But you are mature, and we can trust you. That's why you're allowed to come to the excavation site.

Belle: Yeah. Can you imagine my friends at the site? Junior would probably break stuff, and you'd always have to be getting Caroline down from a tree or something. I know I should only climb trees around the field station.

Davian: We'd be happier if you didn't climb trees anywhere, but you know the risks, so...

Belle: Evaluate my choices, right?

Davian: Right.

Belle: I'll be too busy to climb trees tomorrow anyway. I have discoveries to make and students to teach.

Félix: Oh? Are you taking over for me, Professor Belle?

Davian: She probably can teach them something, you know. She's already got more archaeological experience than they do.

Félix: I'll tell you what, Belle. Why don't I let you have a few minutes to instruct the students tomorrow? You can be my assistant. We'll practice this evening so you'll know what you want to say when the time comes.

Belle: Yay! I'm going to be the best assistant you've ever had, I promise!

Félix: I have no doubt.

Belle: So, if I'm going to the site tomorrow and I'm going to be busy all day, does that mean I can skip my math lesson?

Davian: No. It means you'll have to do extra lessons the day after. Just because you're in the rainforest and you're learning cool stuff that isn't in your school books, that doesn't mean you get to ignore them. Remember, there's still going to be a test.

Belle: So, I guess the right choice would be to get ready for the test. I just wish I liked math more.

Félix: It's okay if you don't like it. Nobody can force you to like things. I'm not friends with math either, and when I was your age I was much happier following my father all around Al-Simhara and making discoveries with him. But I had to study math as well, because I needed it to graduate high school and get into university.

Belle: I'm going to university some day. I guess that means I have to be nice to math, even if we're not friends.

Félix: Be nice to math and it'll be nice to you.

Belle: *giggling* By helping me get into university?

Félix: Exactly so.

Belle: I can live with that.

Davian: Now that we've got that settled, how about we do a little exploring before dinner? I'll bet we can find some awesome butterflies if we take that trail over there. Check out all the flowers. I hear tropical butterflies love those.

Belle: Yes! Félix, can Davian and I borrow your camera? I want to take pictures if we see any butterflies. Then I can identify them and write a paragraph for my science journal.

Félix: That sounds like a good idea. While you and Davian are out butterfly hunting, I'm going to catch up with Dr. Santiago. I'll see the two of you at dinner at the field station.

Davian: Sounds good.

Belle: If we find any butterflies, we'll tell you all about it!

Félix: I can hardly wait. Good luck.

Belle: I think it's more about scientific methodology than luck.

Félix: *smiling* In that case... good scientific methodology, Professor Belle. I await your report on your findings.

[tgmsunmontue]

More than movie magic... 12/24

Hangster AU. Explicit (eventually). Jake is a Hollywood actor and Bradley is a stunt coordinator. Jake's about to make a few self-discoveries. So is Bradley.

ONE TWO THREE FOUR FIVE SIX SEVEN EIGHT NINE TEN

ELEVEN

PART TWELVE

                “Conversation go that well hmm?”

                “What?” Jake asks, and he’s distracted, pretty sure he’s going to need to jerk off before he’ll be able to get to sleep, certain he can still feel Bradley’s fingers on his skin, unable to really process anything more than his mom standing there in her dressing gown and talking to him.

                “You’re going to have hell in makeup tomorrow…”

                “Huh?”

                “Oh Jake… I’m happy for you honey.”

                He freezes then, because he hasn’t said anything and he looks at her and she’s just watching him, expression amused and he guesses he’s been a little distracted since he got home, but not massively so… He managed to ride home, settle Blitzen in her stall, all while sporting a semi which is now quickly disappearing in the face of his mother talking to him. Thank fuck for small mercies.

                “Happy about what exactly?”

                “Well, you didn’t have that beard rash at dinner. Twenty-four hours. Amazing what you can achieve with a little motivation isn’t it?”

                Oh god. He hadn’t realized that his face and neck would be literal red flags, broadcasting his recent activity. His mom is fat too observant and has always simply known when he had been making out with people. Years as a high school teacher and recognizing bullshit probably help. He groans.

                “You’re an unholy terror.”

                “And proud of the fact sweetie. Proud of you too. Well done on using your words.”

                Jakes grins, doesn’t mention that there weren’t a lot of words exchanged, not ones that he can repeat in polite company anyway, and his mom will believe whatever she wants, regardless of what he says right now.

                “Yeah, we like each other. It’s good.”

                “Good. Now I just need to get him to accept that dinner invite.”

                “Yeah, good luck with that one mom.”

…            …            …

                “Okay, what is going on. You’re smiling at Jake Seresin rather than just watching him with that slightly… mournful look.”

                “What’s more interesting is he’s smiling back,” Bob says, spooning more oatmeal into his mouth and Bradley loves working with his friends, he really does, but sometimes he also wishes they just didn’t quite know him so well. Maybe he should spend some time with some of the other teams, allow himself some distance if this whole thing doesn’t pan out. It’s not like Bob couldn’t take over from him here.

                “It wasn’t mournful,” Bradley mutters, taking a sip of his tea. “Considering maybe.”

                “Considering how much you want him maybe…” Natasha mutters, voice low and Bradley rolls his eyes, but also he can’t outright deny it either, because they’d all know he was lying. There’s a difference between being attracted to someone and wanting them to actually acting on it though. Last night was a revelation of the best sort and while they hadn’t had a chance to talk it had felt full of promise and potential, more to come, a prologue rather than an epilogue and the way Jake keeps catching his eye and smiling across the dining hall makes him feel surer about that fact.

                “Mind if I join you?” Javy Machado asks, and Bradley takes it as the reprieve it is, smirks at the blush appearing on Natasha’s cheeks and quirks an eyebrow but wisely keeps his mouth very firmly shut. He likes his dick and balls right where they are.

                The conversation flows around him and he focusses on eating for a bit and moving his shins out of the way of Natasha’s feet where she’s trying to kick him, clearly knowing what he’s thinking about Javy Machado coming over wanting to eat breakfast with her.

                “Bradley…” He looks up and Aunty Kaye is standing there, smiling her normal smile but her eyes are slightly more narrow than usual, like she’s either assessing him for body-bag size, or she’s about to tell a joke and she’s already laughing inwardly. It’s really hard to tell.

                “Aunty Kaye. Morning.”

                “Hmm. It is morning. And you are not going to need extra time in the makeup chair this morning…”

                “I’m sorry, what?”

                “My son’s face and neck look like he lost a fight with a roll of sandpaper…”

                Oh fuck.

                He can feel his cheeks heating, and at least he knows she’s Jake’s mom now and he isn’t hit with the shock of that as well. He hasn’t seen Jake up close yet, but he trusts that Aunty Kaye knows what she’s talking about and if he’s left Jake with stubble burn then… well. It’s kind of unavoidable if he wants to keep kissing him, he’s not going to apologize to Jake’s mom about it, not when Jake clearly didn’t seem to mind.

                Bob, Rueben, Natasha and Javy are all watching the interaction with glee, as are a handful of other people within hearing distance and he glances over to where he last saw Jake and he’s not there, instead he’s much closer, expression harried as he approaches and oh shit, his face and neck are definitely more pink than normal, not bright red, but definitely pink like he’s been out in the sun maybe.

                “Oh my god mom, please leave him alone…” Jake says. “I am so sorry about her.”

                “I expect you at dinner tonight. At the main house.”

                “Uh.”

                “Mom!” Jake exclaims, then he turns to Bradley. “You don’t have to come to dinner, she’s just meddling…”

                “Well, I’ve been inviting Bradley to dinner for a couple of weeks. Maybe with you there he’ll have more of an incentive to come, hmm?”

                Bradley is pretty sure he’s full-on blushing now, realizing that those dinner invitations maybe had an ulterior motive if Jake’s expression are anything to go by. He’s not going to avoid or ignore or run away from any of it anymore, and maybe they can finally have that conversation he feels needs to happen.

                “Seems like the least I can do considering the amount of makeup Jake’s going to need.”

THIRTEEN

[anarchiii]

Worlds apart-5 —ACOTAR x TOG AU

Part five | warnings: practically none | Azriel x Celaena Sardothien

Summary; Pain and suffering one after the other, Azriel decides that maybe he’s not meant for this world, but maybe he is meant for another…

Note: this is an AU it’s not in the books.

Masterlist / Series Masterlist

Azriel’s POV

“Where are we going again?” He questioned, trying not to look at her too long, she sighed, “Azriel, for the fourth time, we are going to the Royal Library. Does your world not have libraries?” She said, Azriel had explained to her earlier than he was from somewhere called ‘Prythian’ not ‘Erelia’ or ‘Wendlyn’.

Celaena had taken it surprisingly well to finding out that Azriel was from a completely different universe and had just simply said; “very well, then, I’ll get you back to your world if that is what you wish,” he hadn’t had the heart to tell her that he didn’t particularly want to go back right now, or if he was even welcome there anymore. And he didn’t know if her willingness to help him was her way of saying ‘I’m going to help you go home so you can leave me the hell alone’ he hoped that wasn’t the case. He has grown quite fond of the golden haired-spitfire.

“So you are certain we will find what we are looking for?” He questioned, she turned her head to look at him, frowning at him under long, dark lashes, “I did not say anything of the sorts, this future research and discoveries is purely based on luck, don’t get your hopes up.” She said blatantly. Azriel had never met someone like her, someone so witty, beautiful and snappy but also kind and compassionate, not to mention her apparent love for the dramatics, it was so. . . Her, if that made sense.

He sucked in a breath as they walked through the huge doors to the library, mountains of books and shelves immediately coming into view, there were a couple scholars and librarians walking around but they did not take notice of them, their day filled with reading and cataloging books.

Celaena was frowning again, this time at a librarian sitting behind his desk, the man’s eyes narrowing from behind his glasses as he noticed her stare, Celaena let out a growl that seemed more Fae than Human but kept walking, Azriel didn’t dare ask what that was about. She was scary enough as it was.

They kept walking down halls lined with books upon books until the lights started fading, and dust started appearing everywhere they looked, she kept walking, though.

Azriel took the time to map out the library and all the people in it, so far, there was only one exit, not a good thing, Celaena seemed to be thinking the same thing, they seemed to do that a lot, but, as they say. Like calls to like.

-

Celaena’s POV

“Stop looking at me like that,” Celaena said, not bothering to turn around from where she was searching bookshelves in one of the many catacombs, thankfully, it wasn’t the same one she has visited before, she shuddered at the memory of that. . . Beast.

“How do you know I’m looking at you? You have your back turned to me!” Azriel hissed, for an apparent esteemed warrior, he was quite touchy.

No one had mentioned what had happened in the bed last night so she didn’t bring it up, it didn’t mean she didn’t think about it though, “aren’t you a ‘Spymaster’ or whatever, shouldn’t you know?” She questioned, earning a grumble in response that had her chuckling, it made him more human, which was better for her. And her nerves.

-

Two hours, two hours they spent down her, and found absolutely nothing, it’s not like she was expecting a book on world-walking but it would’ve been nice to find something down here, Azriel seemed to be thinking the same thing as he ripped off his hood and plopped down onto a dusty chair, she half expected it to break under his weight but no, for a male of his size. He apparently wasn’t that heavy.

Celaena went back to searching the shelves when a cover caught her eye, it was the Walking-Dead, how did it get down here? She pulled the book out and opened it, nothing, well—not nothing. But not what they were looking for.

She kept flicking through the pages, looking for something, anything, when a familiar voice broke through the air of silence, “what the fuck! Celaena?” Dorian yelled, she whipped her head around, Azriel at her side instantly, “uh, uh,” she started panicking. Oh Gods. Dorian was going to get them killed! “Uhm. . . It’s not what it looks like?” She made up a hundred excuses in her head but didn’t get to use any of them as Azriel hit Dorian in the back of the head with the hilt of her dagger, “oh fuck, Az! Oh Gods, this is how I’m going to die!” She started pacing around the room, “it’s fine, it’s fine!” He said at last, “we just need to take him back to our room, easy,” great, that’s a great plan. They would drag the unconscious Crown prince of Ardalan through his own library and through his castle into technically his room, easy!

“I’ll grab his legs! You grab his arms! And for Mala’s sake, put your hood back on!” She yelled, not caring about her volume.

Thanks to what luck they possessed, they managed to drag Dorian through the castle and into her room, they dumped the prince onto the couch in the game room and Celaena went to grab a cloth to clean up the blood, the blood, running through her bedroom she nearly ran into someone, oh Gods, not just someone. . .“Chaol!” She shrieked, she was so screwed. . .

The End.

-Taglist

@aelincaddel

@azrielslittleslut

@cynthiesjmxazrielslover

[khaire-traveler]

Hey, so, I think I might be a lesbian, are there any deities associated with this kind of thing in any sort of way? I’ve heard some say Artemis but others say that thats interpretation and not necessarily true, and some say Aphrodite because she’d related to sexuality, some say Dionysus or Apollo because they’re related to queerness, etc.

Hey, Nonny!

All of the deities you mentioned make sense to me, actually. I've met many people who associate Artemis with lesbianism; I believe this may be a modern association, but I know there's evidence that it was heavily implied in ancient times. Aphrodite is a goddess of love and sexuality, so it makes sense that she would be able to help with discovering yourself. I've seen Dionysus be regarded as a god of queerness in modern times, actually, but even without that modern association, he is absolutely a wonderful god to help with embracing sexuality. Apollo is also often associated with queerness, and he could help as well; he's great with self-discovery. You may also consider Eros, who is a god of love and sexuality.

Truthfully, the Greek pantheon is pretty queer leaning in general. Many deities have been depicted in queer relationships within ancient myths, so it's not uncommon at all. I personally just suggest reaching out to whichever deity you feel the strongest pull towards. Who is the most appealing to? Who does your heart lean towards? Even if they don't have a specific domain in love, I think it's ultimately a better choice to go with the deity you feel the greatest connection to.

I hope this helped, and I wish you luck on your journey! Remember that being queer is a beautiful thing to be. Your sexuality and experience are valid. The feelings you have are entirely normal, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with them. Have a good day/night. 🧡

[multiplicity-positivity]

so i just found out im a system as of two hours ago (got a dsm-5 pulled on me and everything), do you have any advice on meeting the alters or just any advice for new systems?

i know about four of them right now but not well

hey, so we have a resource post for questioning systems with a ton of links to guides and articles that could be useful for both questioning and newly discovered systems alike. it’s broken down into cdd (complex dissociative disorder) specific and non-cdd specific, so if you’ve recently been diagnosed with a dissociative disorder, maybe stick to the cdd section:

as for general advice… we’re going to point you towards our directory. we’ve written a lot over our years on this blog, and our directory compiles all of our posts into one place.

some specific posts that may help you are “establishing contact with headmates,” “understanding did,” “dissociative amnesia,” “get to know me! headmate form,” and “all about headspaces.”

please though, understand that system discovery can often be a lengthy process. don’t push yourself too hard to interact with your alters right away. just be gentle with yourself and take things slow. they’ll always be there, so there’s no big rush to force yourself to interact with everyone immediately. remember to take care of yourself as you go through this process and keep checking in with yourself to make sure your needs as an alter are being met. and good luck! getting to know alters can be a daunting challenge, but it can be fun and reassuring as well. we’re wishing your whole system the very best with this process.

[undead-merman]

This was a patreon request from Dove Wing: “Hello, could I request a yandere fallen guardian angel Simeon for my March request? I think the idea of him falling due to his obsession of the person he was assigned to protect would be an interesting concept to play around with”

Yandere fallen angel Simeon with GN-Reader SFW

Before The Fall

He was recovering from the death of his last human. They were a lovely woman with a heart of gold however their life came to a quick and tragic end. Taken by their own lover. As much as Simeon tried to protect them, even guardian angels have their limits in incorporeal forms. 

He was overtaken by guilt for years, a horrible knowing guilt like the loss of a good friend or even a child. It was heavy on his soul and his other kin worried for him. They did everything they could to cheer him up from distracting him, to trying to talk to him about it, and even celebrating their life. But Simeon only blamed himself. 

It wasn’t until Micheal sat down with him and chatted for a few hours, every angel in the area was trying to listen but they were shooed away. When Simeon came back out people whispered carefully asking what happened and if he was alright. 

He was given a new human to look over. And he forced a smile to let everyone know he was okay, even if he was still heavy with the weight of his last human on his shoulders. The word spread fast and everyone gave him well wishes and even had a party with all of the foods he loves. But when he saw his reflection in the glass he couldn’t stand it, his stomach churned.  

Watching Over You

You were fairly old when he arrived. Normally angels are assigned at birth but your last angel had started a family and was sent back. So here you were as an adult, though still fairly young around twenty or so. He was apprehensive at first, not wanting to get too close in fear of losing someone else again but it was a herculean task. 

He always gets attached, it’s in his nature as a heavenly being to love and care for you no matter what, to adore and want nothing but the best for you. But the more devoted to you he got, the more worried he became. 

Still, he focused on his duties, gently shooing away bad luck, making sure worldly objects just barely miss you. A humble way to spend his days with you but the way you smile, as if you know he’s watching over you makes his heart skip a beat. 

But it’s a few years in when you are met with hardships that he cannot gently sweep away. A bad partner, a financial crisis, or maybe even an unexpected disaster that leaves you stuck without a home. He weeps for you. Weeps deeply and curses his own nature for not being able to help. 

A Deep Dark Fall

He watches your situation get worse and worse and how none of your fellow man help, how some even give you judgmental glances. But they don’t know you, how can humanity be so cruel? He finds himself putting at his own feathers. 

The way your smile has faded wounds him, and every time you sob it feels like the knife of mankind is driven deeper and deeper. He remembers his last human and despair sinks in. 

It gets worse the more you suffer alone. Every time you cry, he reaches out but his hands cannot hold you, he tries to tell you he’s here with you, but you cannot hear. He starts to question why he’s not allowed to comfort you, to make sure you’re truly safe. Whats the point of a guardian angel if he can’t help you in ways that matter? 

He starts to curse the heavens above, questioning every that has come before and laughing at tradition as he weeps with you. He doesn’t even care as his feathers molt turning a necrotic black and falling off in patches. But he doesn’t care, what good are they if he can’t even hold you? Can’t use them to help. 

He makes a discovery when his wings are half rotten and no white feathers remain he can finally tug the blankets over his body to cover his freezing feet he’s overcome with twisted joy. He’s falling, but he’s finally able to care for you in ways that matter. He happily lets the corruption overtake him, ripping out the rest of his own feathers and he weeps with joy. He’ll finally be able to hold you, love you like your own kind never did, to show you true love.

It’s only when his wings are finally bone, do they fall off. But he laughs through the pain as he can finally feel just how cold the place you sleep is.        

Finally Holding You

He takes you into his arms, yanking you as he laughs out tears and feels just how warm you are despite the freezing surroundings. He doesn’t even hear you as you yelp and cry out. He has you. He’s finally holding you. 

But it’s when you violently twist and squirm in his loving arms does he see your horrified face. He doesn’t know why you’re looking at him with such horror but he joyously explains what he’s gone through to keep you safe, and now that he is finally tangible in the mortal world he can be with you. Help you, hold your hand through these hard times and lead you to a much happier life. 

He still doesn’t understand why you're scared, why you're freaking out. Do you not believe him? He says every little personal detail of your life and explains how he was there watching over you. But when he sees the horror in your eyes he can only tilt his head. Please don’t be afraid, he’s only trying to love you like he was meant to. 

He’ll watch over you, even if you don’t understand now. He takes you away from this cold and miserable place. Even if your kicking and screaming. He’ll just cover your mouth and whisper that it will be okay. He’s finally here. He’ll finally do something worthwhile, and he’ll make sure nothing can hurt you ever again.   

[antonella411]

I've finally decided to start writing my first fanfiction! The upcoming fanfiction will tell my version of Sora and Riku's love story throughout the entire Kingdom Hearts story

What will this fanfiction be like?

I haven't decided on the name of this fanfiction yet, so you have to suggest the title to me

This fanfiction will have a total of 10 chapters, in which 9 tell the story, while the last chapter describes the characters of this fanfiction

All chapters (except the last one) will have the Kingdom Hearts period as their title (except Coded), I have combined some periods into a single chapter

Now I will tell you how the chapters of this fanfiction will be (except the last one)

Chapter 1: Birth by Sleep

This chapter will be set on one side before the events of Birth by Sleep and on the other during the homonymous period

It will be told:

How Sora and Riku first met

Riku's meeting with Terra

Sora and Riku's meeting with Aqua

The scene where Sora and Riku see the meteor shower together

Sora gets Ventus' heart

Sora and Riku's meeting with Kairi 1 year after the events of Birth by Sleep (this scene I think doesn't exist in the original game)

Chapter 2: Kingdom Hearts

This chapter will be set during the events of Kingdom Hearts

It will be told:

Sora and Riku's friendship 10 years later

Riku tells Sora about the legend of the Paopu fruit

Sora's wish to share the Paopu fruit with Riku

Sora and Riku's first division as darkness falls over the Destiny Islands

The reunion between Sora and possessed by darkness Riku

The fight between Sora and the possessed Riku

Sora's sacrifice and transformation from a Heartless to save Kairi

Riku manages to return Sora to human form

Sora and Riku's first kiss

Riku gives Sora his lucky charm, promising to return it

Sora and Riku's battle against Ansem, Seeker of Darkness

Sora and Riku's second division after sealing Kingdom Hearts

Sora's promise to find Riku at all costs

Chapter 3: Chain of Memories

This chapter will be set during the events of Chain of Memories

It will be told:

Sora's arrival in the Castle Oblivion

Sora begins to forget his memories, including Riku, replacing them with false memories created by Naminé

Riku's awakening in the Castle Oblivion

Riku's meeting with Riku Replica

The meeting and fight of Sora and Riku Replica

Sora and Naminé's meeting and the discovery of the truth

Sora falls into a deep sleep to recover his memories

The fight between Riku and Riku Replica

The "reunion" between Sora and Riku and the latter's meeting with Naminé

Riku exits in the Castle Oblivion

Chapter 4: 358/2 Days and Kingdom Hearts II

This chapter will be set on one side during the events of 358/2 Days and on the other during the events of Kingdom Hearts II

The ending of this chapter coincides with the ending of Coded

It will be told:

Riku 1 year later

The meeting and fight between Riku and Roxas, Sora's Nobody

Riku's transformation into Ansem, Seeker of Darkness

Sora's awakening

Sora and Riku's reunion in the World That Never Was

Riku returns to his original appearance

Sora and Riku's battle against Xemnas

Sora and Riku in the Realm of Darkness

Sora and Riku's love conversation, during which Sora resisted Riku's good luck charm

Sora and Riku return to the Destiny Islands thanks to Kairi's letter in a bottle

Sora and Riku's life 1 month later (for me the post-credits scene of Kingdom Hearts II is set 1 month later)

Sora and Riku receive a letter from Mickey Mouse revealing that a new adventure is about to begin

Chapter 5: Dream Drop Distance

This chapter will be set during the events of Dream Drop Distance

It will be told:

Sora and Riku subjected on the Mark of Mastery exam

Sora and Riku's third division

Sora and Riku's exam

Sora taken by the real Organization XIII to become a member of it

Sora's rescue

Riku saves Sora

Riku becomes a Keyblade Master

Chapter 6: Kingdom Hearts III

This chapter will be set during the events of Kingdom Hearts III

A part before the end of the chapter will tell a little about Re:Mind

It will be told:

Sora and Riku's separate journeys

Sora and Riku's first and second reunions with Yen Sid

Sora and Riku save Aqua

The conversation between Riku and Riku Replica before the battle in the Keyblade Graveyard

Kairi reveals to Sora that she was in love with him but that she realized that Riku is Sora's true love

Sora and Riku share the Paopu fruit

Riku's sacrifice for Sora from the swarm of Heartless

Sora in the Final World

Sora uses the power of waking to resurrect Riku and the others

The battle in the Keyblade Graveyard against the real Organization XIII

Xehanort kills Kairi to summon Kingdom Hearts

The final battle against Xehanort

Sora is allowed by Riku to use the power of waking to resurrect Kairi

Sora revives Kairi

The new life of the other characters

The celebration in the Destiny Islands

Sora disappears before Riku's eyes (aka the fourth and last division)

Chapter 7: Melody of Memory and Kingdom Hearts IV

This chapter will be set, in part, in the limitcut episode and the secret episode of Re:Mind, in another, on Melody of Memory, and in the last, on Kingdom Hearts IV (even if it hasn't come out yet I have some ideas on how it will be)

It will be told:

The conversation between Riku and Terra

1 year after Kingdom Hearts III

Riku tries to find Sora with the help of Leon, Aerith, Yuffie and Cid (in my fanfiction Cloud will also appear and I also added, for Leon and Cloud, a husband and a newborn son, for Aerith, Yuffie and Cid, their spouses)

The meeting between Riku and the Fairy Godmother

The meeting and fight between Sora and Yozora

Kairi in the Final World

The conversation between Kairi, Riku and the Fairy Godmother

Kairi, Riku and the Fairy Godmother in the Final World

Riku enters in Quadratum

The meeting between Sora and Strelitzia

The second meeting between Sora and Yozora

The adventures of Sora, Yozora, and Strelitzia in Quadratum

Sora and Yozora talk about their respective loves (Sora for Riku and Yozora for Sterlitzia, yes, for me Yozora and Sterlitzia are a beautiful couple)

Sora and Riku's reunion

The final battle against Luxu

Sora and Riku return to their world

Chapter 8: After Kingdom Hearts IV, 1 part

This chapter will be set 2 years after Kingdom Hearts IV

It will be told:

Sora and Riku's life 2 years later

The conversation between Riku and his fourteen-year-old apprentice (you have to choose his/her name, gender and appearance for me)

Sora and Riku's anniversary

Sora promises marriage to Riku

Preparations for the wedding

Sora and Riku's wedding

Sora and Riku's first time after wedding

Sora and Riku's honeymoon

Chapter 9/Final Chapter: After Kingdom Hearts IV, 2 part

This chapter will be a sequel to the previous chapter

It will be told:

Sora and Riku 2 weeks after the wedding

Sora reveals to Riku that he will subjected a new Mark of Mastery exam to become a Keyblade Master

Riku reveals to Sora that he is pregnant

9 months of Riku's pregnancy and Sora's exam

Sora becomes Keyblade Master

The birth of Sora and Riku's baby (I've already decided what their baby will be like)

I can't wait to start writing this fanfiction and post it on AO3!

[cal-daisies-and-briars]

hi Cal!

I'm mostly expecting this to be posted after the competition is through, but I am wishing the best of luck to you, Porto and Cassy this weekend ahead of time!

I'm very excited for every WIP you've got going this week! but particularly, I'm thrilled to see your style and flair there within one bed and bad things bingo, (especially more of this thread you and Chris are pulling out of Eddie,) so I'll start with those and see where the weekend takes things 😁💜

PS—any thoughts as to the emoji for the next square on your card? 👀

🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷🦷

🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️

Hey! THANK YOU!!!

I appreciate that so much!

I'm not sure which square I'm going to do next but MAYBE something with a mouth?

54 for 🦷:

---

Buck is grinning ear to ear.

“I missed you so much!” He exclaims.

“I missed you, too, Buck,” Chris replies. “There’s no one like you in Texas.”

Buck chuckles and musses the top of Christopher’s hair.

“That’s why your dad’s never allowed to move back.”

“Yeah,” Chris agrees. “That’s true.”

Eddie feels warm.

“How’s your mouth?” Buck asks, stepping back from Chris a bit. 

“Crap,” Chris admits. 

“Rough go,” Buck empathizes.

“Have you ever had your wisdom teeth removed?” Chris asks him. 

“Nope!” Buck says. “Never became an issue for me.”

“Does that mean you’re wiser than Dad?” Chris asks, turning to smirk at Eddie a little.

Eddie chuckles. He’d explained to Chris that he also got his wisdom teeth removed, albeit later than Shannon, and now Chris. It had happened to Eddie during basic training. Before his first deployment. The whole recovery process had been cold and sterile and alone. Rushed, so he could get back to it. All a reminder of how young he was, really. He’d been desperate for a little comfort, but there was no one to ask. 

“Yep!” Buck replies cheerily. “But we already knew that.”

Once upon a time, Eddie would have rolled his eyes at that. Disputed it. Now he just shrugs. He thinks maybe it’s actually very true.

They fall back into the usual stride of things. Everything feels so normal for a moment that it leaves Eddie almost breathless. Video games and ice cream in front of the television. Teasing and laughter. A general sense of ease. Eddie wants to cry. He has been missing this so badly. 

Not everything is like before, though. And that’s… Well, Eddie thinks it’s good. Eddie thinks it means something. Eddie think it’s one of the big reasons things won’t fall apart the same way again.

Buck sits so close to Eddie they’re practically melting into each other. It’d be easy to blame it on the sudden reappearance of a third person on the couch, but that hasn’t seemed to matter for weeks. This is just what they’ve been like lately. Ever since Eddie sat him down tearfully after one of his therapy sessions and explained things. One of those broken, badly healed bones. Buck had held onto him while he fell apart, and he hasn’t fully let go since. 

---

42 for 🛏️:

---

The rushed, inexpensive couch he’d bought shopping with Natalia had not lived up to a couple weeks of sexual discovery and exploration with two large men. Whoops.

“I… I didn’t notice,” Eddie admits. 

“Hey, that’s okay,” Buck waves it off. “You’ve had a lot going on.”

And it’s Buck who has been dropping in on Eddie more often than not, lately. Making sure he’s, like, eating and moving and not totally catatonic. 

“The bed doesn’t matter,” Eddie says quickly. “I mean, if that’s okay. I don’t care about quarantine-style.”

They’d shared fine enough, for a few months in 2020.

“Fine by me,” Buck says. “Whatever you need.”

Neither of them mentions the air mattress sitting in a box in Eddie’s garage. 

🛏️

The first night, nothing happens, of course. Not that Buck is expecting anything to happen. He’s not. Obviously! Just, what he’s saying is, it’s basically normal.

They have a couple beers, throw on bad reality TV to get Eddie’s mind off things, and go to bed. Backs facing each other, unmoving. Eddie sleeps like a rock. Like maybe he hasn’t slept well in nights, and he finally is managing it. Buck wakes up a few times in the night, just to check. 

That’s all that happens.

ii.

Father’s Day is obviously harder. They’re working until ten in the morning, and then they go back to Buck’s loft together. 

Work hasn’t been great lately. With Gerrard instead of Bobby. It sucks for everyone. Buck least of all. Except, Buck does the worst job of hiding how he’s feeling. He has to today, though. Because today, no matter how miserable he’s feeling, Eddie is feeling exponentially worse. And it’s up to Buck to alleviate that in any small way he can. 

In fact, he makes it his mission. 

There are several reasons for this. One, he wants a way to distract himself from work. Two, he feels like it’s sort of his responsibility. Three, if he can be of any help to Eddie, then maybe it will translate into Eddie being able to get Chris back sooner. But the real and most pressing reason is that he adores Eddie, is devoted to Eddie, and feels Eddie’s pain like a knife in his own gut. 

So he makes it his mission to make Eddie feel a little bit better, if he can.