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kokiseiko · 3 years

Text

Fleeting Touches and Unbreakable Bonds

Shouta Aizawa x Reader; Hizashi Yamada x Reader

Song Recommendation: All I Ask - Adele

(Y/N) – Your Name

(L/N) – Last Name

Word Count: 1.8k +

Fandom: My Hero Academia | Boku no Hero Academia

Pairing: Shouta Aizawa x Pro-Hero!Reader; Hizashi Yamada x Pro-Hero!Reader

Rating: SFW

Warnings: Angst, Bittersweet

Summary: Is it possible to love someone so much that you can’t let go even after death?

Note: This is a special request made by my lovely fellow Aizawa simp: @nire-chann.

Thank you for beta-reading this for me Ate Selene @yourgoddessselene | @saudade-mayari

The events that had happened at the start of this fic are a few months after Aizawa became a teacher at UA.

A rush of sudden adrenaline that wracks your body, heart pounding, ears ringing, your entire system shaking with emotions you can’t even pinpoint. Walking towards the white-lined road of the city, the rays of the noon sun spilling all over the bent light posts, the once smooth grey cement on the sidewalks now cracked, malfunctioning traffic lights blinking and crackling, the aftermath: debris of the earlier commotion.

It was an explosion, a burst of dust-filled smoke that pained the eyes of individuals who unfortunately had it opened, then a sickening crash of building facades, window splinters raining throughout the area, injuring civilians from which you’ve catered immediately. Quickly healing wounds and giving directions for immediate evacuation.

You were Frantic. Desperate. Searching throughout the wreckage even when your quirk wasn’t for such. Continuing to move through the rubbles of building you spot the shine of the once yellow gear now cracked, broken into three, not far from it was a mass of black, crimson spilling underneath him, a shine of a bloodied band adorning his right hand.

You knew that it was near impossible even with your quirk to stabilize him, yet you continue, hands glowing in hues of emerald as you move his blood-soaked charcoal locks.

---

He feels lighter every passing second, but your presence grounds him. There’s so much more to say, to feel, to do. He sighs internally, he looks at you with such intent, he wants to let you know, to speak to you, but how can he, when his throat feels restricted. Even lifting his hand to touch your tear-stained cheeks to help ease the furrow in your brows had him use too much energy.

There was so much more, but having to look at you with all the emotions he could muster in his two light-grey orbs are what he could only communicate with. He can’t speak anymore, but he wants to at least taste your lips one last time.

To at least feel your heat and the cool contrast of your wet cheeks.

He’s barely noticing the tingle of nerves, that strange warm sensation he used to feel whenever you used to tend to his wounds, his injuries. His eyes wrinkle slightly when he remembers your pout during a rant a few days ago, your plump lips moving and going on about him being reckless.

He’s doing it again, but it has been too long since he had let himself fall through a never-ending well of questions, of replays, flashbacks, images, doubts, concerns. This may be the last time he’ll ever let himself tumble throughout the dark abyss of just him and his thoughts.

Was he content? He doesn’t know.

He just simply wants to remember your smile, your tears. You.

You were his anchor back then. Back when he was crumbling into a mess of a wanna-be hero who had his friend die during Hero-Work Studies.

You pulled him up when he was too tired to even recognize and register the warmth feeling in his chest that was being overpowered with guilt, regret, and frustration.

He never really accommodated these positive feelings, thinking that they would just be swept away with a whoosh of wind, only to return with a hard blow of hatred, anger, and pain.

He doesn’t want to experience that again, to go through that momentary shock and be hit with the sad consciousness of reality.

His throaty whisper was heard above the ringing in your ears: “Thank you��” for loving me, he wants to add, for being with me… I’ve loved you, tears cascading his cheeks

“I’m sorry…” for not acknowledging these wonderful feelings, for taking so long to let you know that, looking to your also wet cheeks, eyes pooling with tears from frustration? Sadness? Pain? Maybe a mix of three he guessed, “… I love you.”

He feels the gradual easing of his muscles all throughout his body. The blood rushing throughout his veins were subliminally slowing. The wet pelts of your tears dropping down his features would be a mere afterthought if he wasn’t focusing so much on you, but alas, his own mind was keeping him from doing so.

Even within his last seconds, his mind kept him prisoner.

His mind where everything was being played. His head spinning with the rapid successions of memories he subconsciously held dear. The majority of the replays containing you, your comforting touch when he needed an anchor, your soft kisses during those casual dates back in his favorite café, the hitch of your breath when you momentarily stopped the cute cooing noises you made whenever you petted the cats as you trailed your eyes on his kneeling form, your whispered ‘yes’ when he finally popped the question “Marry me?”, your wobbly smile when you walked down the red-carpeted aisle, the crack of your voice as your eyes that were holding nothing but love and adoration staring right at him as you began to state your vows began to pool.

Smiling.

He never thought that in his last moments he would be smiling. You’ve made him do things he thought he’d never do in this short life of his. And for that, he’s thankful.

You are truly something else.

***

Breathing was hard. His every inhale didn’t even feel like air, it’s akin to something much more condense. Black was all that surrounds him: a pool of nothing but midnight skies. A weird sensation constantly falling down to a never-ending night is what grounds him to- what exactly.

Though his throat was constricted, a single sound not able to flutter out his lips, his thoughts seemed loud on this vast plain of nothingness.

Where was he?

How can he even breathe?

“You’re still bound.”

What?

“You need to let go.”

Looking around him to at least locate the voice’s body was futile. Was this in his head?

“No. You’re in the middle. Stuck.”

Middle?

“Your time’s done, but you’re still tied down… by your bonds. Let go.”

Realizing what this meant he answered the disembodied voice in his head, I can’t.

A chilling gust of an unknown wind made its way throughout his existence.

***

It can’t be. He knows it can’t happen. He died. How can he still be standing- oh.

He doesn’t know whatever the wind did to him, but he at least deduced that it returned him to you.

You who was now kneeling in the mix of wet gravel and grass whilst staring into the distance with streams still flowing down your puffed eyes, cheeks streaked with layers of endless tears that managed to drip down your wobbling chin, your neck covered in his scarf that had splats of dried hazel-vermillion.

How long was he falling back there?

Two new sounds of weeping.

He sees that the usual gravity-defying golden hair was now instead streaking down the shoulders of a black leather jacket-clad voice hero. Mic. A figure kneeling down beside your form, hugging your side, whose body shook with great intensity together with yours. Midnight.

He aches. Thorns felt like they were encasing him within.

For a moment he wants to hold you, to comfort you, placing his hand to your other shoulder, placing the loose strand of hair behind your ear, but you don’t seem to sense him.

***

It’s been a long month of just watching, of just seeing but not being able to do anything. He hates the unfairness of it all.

He tries. Convincing himself that his touches were felt, that his hugs were warming your numbness, that his kisses were making the sting dwindle little by little, that him laying by the other side of your bed while you sleep with a pillow covered in his old shirt lets you know that he’s still there, that he still loves you, that he still can’t won’t let go.

His touches on your shoulder, which were supposed to reassure you just in turn made you shiver and look confused, bewildered even.

He wants to be heard, to be felt, to exist, but his traces no longer lingered, only a mere susurrate, a short-lived touch in your still graying ambience.

He wants to hold you while you cry and let all of the frustrations out of that head of yours, where he knows that like him you’re stuck, in your own scribbles of granite thoughts, that you too were deprived of the other’s warmth, that you too felt like a shell stuck with all of this sand you called your chaos, your blurring mix of feelings.

And as weeks turns into fleeting months. Months of winter blooming into a spring of years, left on autumn, in auto-pilot, watching, always nearby to see you recover. Recover from the debris and aching splinters that his existence left behind, while he still remains crumbling, pieces of him falling.

“Thank you Hizashi… you grounded me when it all felt like a dream.”

He should’ve been the one doing what Hizashi is now. It should’ve been black instead of gold that you were nuzzling into. It should’ve been his deep baritone rather than the smooth and gentle voice Hizashi uses whenever he encourages, supports, and anchors you.

He should’ve been the one holding your hand whenever you sit in a creaky wooden bench in a nearby park to admire the sunset.

“I know that it’s impossible to reciprocate what I’m about to say, but I at least wanted to let you know-”

“I like you too, Zashi’.”

He should’ve been the one you’re tending, taking care of. Your tears of frustration and aura of concern that was once reserved for him was now for another blond.

“Zashi’ you should start being much more careful you know?”

“I promise I will- ow!”, your smiles at his friend’s idiotic antics just adds jealousy to his mix of resentment and longing.

He should’ve been the only one who sees your gaze of fondness swirling in your beautiful solemn orbs.

But he can’t. He can’t anymore.

And to that he goes back to that midnight swirl, that feeling of falling, to that voice inside his head that was constantly questioning him, encouraging him to release the rope that was still bruising his slowly crumbling heart that he’s put at the back of his mind, not yet wanting to face the reality of the other side, a world without your soft hands holding his cheeks, an existence without your love.

“Surrender Shouta…”

It all felt like déjà vu. Your pretty face blurred with the sheer veil. Soft smiles and salty droplets of tears. The gold-lined red carpet. The people present. It was all like back then, but instead of that classic black tuxedo and a black bow tie, it was a white suit and a navy blue tie.

You’re smiling… at him. Looking directly at him.

It was a whisper, a message just for him; words that helped him to finally let go, to accept, and to be patient.

“Shouta… I hope that you still remember that you will forever be a part of me. Until the next life Shouta Aizawa. Wait for me, we’ll start again; continue what we can’t finish.”

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I hope you all liked this piece. My requests are (finally) open.

#Shouta Aizawa #Aizawa #Shouta Aizawa Fanfic #Aizawa Fanfics #BNHA Fanfic #Shouta Aizawa x You #Shouta Aizawa x Reader #Hizashi Yamada #Yamada #Hizashi Yamada Fanfic #Yamada Fanfics #Hizashi Yamada x You #Hizashi Yamada x Reader #Eraserhead #Present Mic #Eraserhead x Reader #Present Mic x Reader

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a3hihi · 3 years

Text

sun’s up 🐚

one shot

mer!omi fushimi/reader

word count: 1863

also on AO3!

Summary: You came to the beach to study the ocean, but you didn’t expect to get to know the locals this closely. Much less a local who shows up only as you dip under the water to look at coral. Much less a local who has a shark’s tail and fins, scars running up his body, and a bright smile, and oh no he’s attractive why is this happening to me.

———

“I think it’d be nice to hold you,” Omi chuckles. He pretends to not notice the blush blooming on your cheeks.

“Uh, sure,” you mumble wittily, swaying your ankles in the water, “What makes you think that?”

At dawn, the breeze is cool at the pier, but the wood under you is surprisingly warm. Luckily, you had your swimsuit on today, camera and notebook beside you to check on the sea life. As you stand up and reach for the ropes at your side, its bristles tickling your skin, you feel a strong hand close around your forearm.

“It’s alright, I’ve got you.”

Warm honey-toned eyes smile up at you, and you find yourself wanting to pass out right then and there.

“Easy does it.”

Omi helps you step down into the sea with him until you finally plop into his arms. You don’t know how to fall into the water with grace, exactly, but the merman seems to pay it no mind. To your relief, he laughs a little, eyes crinkled up in what you hope is delight.

As Omi keeps you in a firm hold, arms around your waist, you’re dangling in the water, motionless as the currents brush past your legs.

“You’re so cute,” he says, laughing quietly as your hands settle on his broad shoulders. Your mouth presses into a thin, wobbly line. There’s no way he’d say that unless you’d been seeing each other for a while, and you feel yourself blush harder.

“You haven’t answered my question,” you murmur, trying to avoid his gaze. To your horror, Omi softly cups your face and turns it to look at him.

It looks like he’s smiling to himself. You assume he is, because sharp teeth glint under his lips as he holds you close.

“I mean,” he starts, curiously bashful as he hoists you up so you’re face to face (earning an “oop!” from you). “Holding you just feels fun. I like it.”

“I don’t know how to process that, Omi.”

You came to the beach to study the ocean, but you didn’t expect to get to know the locals this closely. Much less a local who shows up only as you dip under the water to look at coral. Much less a local who has a shark’s tail and fins, scars running up his body, and a bright smile, and oh no he’s attractive why is this happening to me.

Needless to say, you’re not too sure how merfolk show affection.

“Aww, come on. Trust me a little bit?” Omi teases.

He takes a moment, working up the confidence to nuzzle your collar.

“I like having you close like this. I know you’re safe that way, you know?”

“Point taken,” you nod, “it’s calming.”

“Besides, it’ll help you study.”

“More like the opposite.” You’re about to laugh, but Omi takes your hand and presses his lips to it and now you want to burst. Looking up at him means seeing his torso, too, and that doesn’t help at all.

“Ah… we need to get you a shirt.” You mumble, hiding your face in his neck.

You feel his chest rumble to match his laugh.

“Yeah? What’s a shirt?”

Omi knows exactly what a shirt is.

You lightly smack his chest. His laugh bubbles out even more, even louder, making you laugh brightly in return.

“Omi, seriously.” You try to rasp something out while you catch your breath. Concern flits in his eyes as he peers at you, lifting you slightly above the water.

“I’m not drowning. It’s okay.” You pat his shoulder, your other hand resting on his cheek. The last thing you want right now is to startle him.

Waves lap at your legs as he melts into your touch. You’re glad he’s reassured, swiping your thumb at the scar on his chin.

The both of you settle there for a while, warming water curling around you.

“Sun’s up.”

As you get out of your daze, Omi beams at you, how you look in the light.

He’s not sure how humans react to seawater, but you mentioned something about skin wrinkling. He guesses you needed this special type of clothing to stay with him for longer, and he blushes at the thought. You also needed this weird ointment— sunscreen, he thinks you called it— that wasn’t too different from the lotions some of his fellow merfolk would use to stay smooth and avoid burning. He winces at the thought.

Omi never really paid attention to skincare and all, so he should probably take a page out of your book for this one. He tries not to smile, remembering how you’d remind him to take care of himself, marvelling at the scars he’d try to hide sometimes. It’s not like he could— at that point, after all he’d done, the lighter colored lines curved all around his body. And even if he thought his hands were too rough, you’d take them in yours, run your thumb across his knuckles.

Ultimately, he remembers the shock in your eyes, seeing him underwater. It’s not his first time seeing people from other than his species, but it was most probably yours— judging by how you spluttered and how he had to rescue you from sinking.

By the time you recovered on the shore, you had to let the truth about mermaids’ existence sink in, pun intended. The one in front of you was wide-eyed, not used to seeing a human up close— at least a human he wasn’t picking a fight with, which you would later learn was an old hobby of his. (Oops.)

You even remembered explaining what “research” was to him, watching his eyes widen as you asked to touch his tail, pointing out how much he could help with that. Obviously, you wouldn’t let any harm come to this new friend of yours, and you assured him that your crew wouldn’t either. You vibrated with excitement at how a fairytale creature was living and breathing right in front of you (and was really cute, but you wouldn’t tell him that just yet).

It was during that time of silent study that he tried hiding a cough, clutching his side, and you realized it was your turn to take care of your rescuer.

As the sand warmed beneath you both, you found yourselves meeting almost every day at the same spot. What started as introductions to each other’s worlds led to you learning about each other as people. Question and answer sessions turned into showing him human books and hearing his stories. If your third time washing your picnic mat was any indication, spending time there was suddenly a relief. At the same time, Omi’s friends teased his visiting the surface more often, packing shells he hoped were “someone’s favorite.”

That wasn’t his favorite part, though.

An especially bright ray of sunlight glares at you and you swat at the air, squirming.

Omi chuckles, and you hum in interest.

“What’s so funny, mister?”

He smiles down at you, raising a hand from carrying you to cup your cheek again. “Like I said, you’re really cute.”

The look on your face must also be funny to him, because his smile is wide, fully proud of what’s glinting under his lips. He murmurs your name, “I’m serious!”

“Ah, uh, thank you,” you sputter, feeling warmth in your cheeks and seeing him trying to stifle a laugh.

Being like this in his arms is convenient for him, apparently— he uses the opportunity to gather you in a tight embrace.

“This isn’t too tight, right?” You wrap your arms further around his neck, waving your head in a quiet no. At the warmth of his hug, you definitely needed the support.

“You too.”

“Huh?”

“I mean! You’re cute too!” You squeak, looking up at him. Big mistake— Omi softly presses his forehead on yours, nose almost bumping yours before he pulls away.

“Thank you.”

A beat passes, and you hear the ocean all over again.

“My favorite part was confessing, you know.”

It takes some time for you to close your mouth. “What?”

“Telling you I liked you. A lot. That was my favorite part of meeting you.” He shakes his head. “You’re my favorite human.”

You really wish you don’t look like a blown-up puffer fish right now.

“Itwasmyfavoriteparttoo!”

You snap your lips closed, and you frown at Omi’s easy, amused grin.

“Come again?”

“I liked it too! I couldn’t stop thinking about it!” You sound like you’re arguing, proving some point in a debate, and your voice shakes with laughter at that.

“Also thank you for holding me!” you yelp, and Omi gives his most recent smile for that morning. You hope you get to see it more from now on.

“Wouldn’t want you slipping.”

The fins in place of his ears flutter a bit. You’re about to ask what’s wrong but notice the warmth rising to the tan of his cheeks. Add flustering a merman to your list of achievements.

You feel yourself moving with him, realizing he’s gliding to the side. The tail under him shifts in the water as he plants you on a nearby rock.

“There’s a merman like me who sells potions nearby.”

You tilt your head, wondering where this was going.

“I think he can give me legs for a bit. Harmless, I swear,” he holds his hands up as you begin to protest.

“Gaining legs was never really a problem for us, I promise.” “I guess the stories I’ve heard weren’t the most accurate,” you say.

“That’s why you’re the scientist.”

The water is pleasant against your leg, cooling as it hits the rocks crusted with shells beneath you. Omi hoists himself up next to you, elbow bumping yours. The sea has his hair hang damp against his forehead, dark brown under the sun.

“Why are you doing this?” you whisper, voice fond like the crabs around you are listening in. “Is there no potion I can take? How do you know it’s safe?”

“Not that I’ve heard of.” He shrugs.

“Again, trust me a little.” There’s a glint of mischief in his eyes, and you squint. “Some of us already work on the shore, if I’m being honest.”

“You’re kidding.”

“No, I’m not.”

Omi snickers as you gawk at him. Merfolk walking on legs, on land, crossing paths with unsuspecting people. At this rate, they could even be at the aquarium or in your crew.

“I’m not surprised,” you tease, crossing your arms. “One of my coworkers is suspiciously good at swimming.”

“Uh huh.”

Omi waves his tail in the water, pointed fin stirring up invisible lines around smaller fish. “I want to see you more.”

You scratch your nape. “I’ve always wanted to show you around the boardwalk. I think actually talking to people is a nice change of pace. You’d like the crafts they make up here,” you say, remembering the objects he’s tinkered around with underwater. He deserved better equipment.

“It’s a date.” He smiles.

You find yourself smiling back this time. “I’d like a date.”

You peck Omi’s cheek, and both of you feel the sun reach its peak.

#a3 fanfiction #omi fushimi #omi fushimi x reader #a3! omi #hihiwrites #AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA #a3! fanfic #a3! act! addict! actors!#quiche is ready

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marveloussupernerd · 3 years

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Please Just... Comfort Me - 707

YA GIRL is playing another story for the first time and I’m on the day 4 branch and I’m getting V’s route and... it’s so dramatic!? I need a fic written abt it right tf now. Also yes I’m making this happen during V’s route but be about 707 leave me alone

Warnings: spoilers for V’s route

Summary: after an insane turn of events at your ceremony, you’re locked back in your room. You’re distressed. V won’t answer, Ray is gone... you can’t tell him anything, but at least Seven would make you feel better

Ray led you back to your room, hand gently holding your arm to make sure you wouldn’t run off, not that you would, it didn’t go well the first time.

He opened the door to your room, leading you in. “I’m so sorry to ask this of you, but will you be okay with staying in your room for a little? I promise I’ll visit right after I talk with the Savior. I just need to know you won’t go anywhere.”

How were you supposed to answer that? He had lied to you. About everything. Your mind was racing with these chatrooms that were with actual people, the fact he wanted you to spy on them, the strange origin of this “place,” the last thing you wanted was to be locked in a small room. But you had now seen Ray upset and it was unpleasant.

You nodded, biting your lip as though that would help stop your eyes watering. “Mhm,” you hummed, unable to form words.

“You’re crying...” his hand went up to wipe your tears but he decided against it, putting it back down by his side. “Please don’t cry. I promise everything will be okay.”

“Okay,” you nodded, sniffling a little. “I’ll be here.” You moved to sit on your bed as he let out a sigh of relief, smiling as he left the room, a lock sounding on the door.

Now you were locked in here.

You didn’t want to be on this bed. You sat on the floor, in a corner, the moon and starlight being the only thing illuminating the room. What else were you going to do in this situation? You pulled out your phone and called V.

He didn’t answer. That made sense, since he was on the run.

You called Seven. He should be up right now.

He picked up on the second ring. “Hello! What can I do for ya at this hour?”

You sniffled. You should have stopped your crying before you called. “Just wanted to say hi...”

“You’re crying.”

You let out a laugh, the sound strangled as it mixed with your sobs. He wasn’t wrong. “I’m aware of that.”

“You wanna tell me what’s wrong?” You could hear his chair squeak as he leaned back in it.

“I... can’t. You know I can’t.” Your voice was small as you spoke. There was no reason he had to talk to you. How could he comfort you if you wouldn’t even explain why you were upset? “This was dumb, I’m so sorry.”

“No no! It’s okay. I know you’re in a weird situation where you can’t say much.”

“I’m not a bad person Seven,” you whimpered. “I know your background checks have come up empty and everything is secret but I promise I’m not bad.”

“I can tell you’re not bad. Plus, V says you’re good, and I want to trust him.”

“I just- ughhh. This is all so much bigger than me. And I just realized it. I’m overwhelmed.” You let your head fall against the wall in defeat.

“Eating always makes me feel better. Or sleeping. That way you’re distracted.”

“I...” you paused, hesitantly. It was weird now. You thought you were pursuing an AI, but you had actually been pursuing a real human being with fiery hair and stupid jokes that never failed to make you laugh. “Do you think you can comfort me?”

“Oh boy,” he sounded nervous. “I’ll try. No, no, I’ll succeed. God Seven to the rescue!”

You chuckled. He was always good at making you laugh.

“I like your laugh. Makes me less nervous about having to cheer you up. Hmmm what should I talk about?”

“You have any fun stories?” You asked, slumping back on the wall more, tears forgotten.

“Do you like the beach?”

An odd question. “I do like the beach.”

“I dunno when you first went to the beach, but I didn’t go until I was older. I almost think everyone’s first trip to the beach should be when they’re older, so they can really remember it.”

“What was it like for you then?”

Seven laughed. “I remember I saw the sand, then took off my shoes and sprinted over to it. I had never been in the sand before. And it stuck all over my feet but I was excited. I was fully dressed besides my shoes, and I just full out sprinted to the water.”

“That’s honestly adorable.”

“And then I stood there, right where the waves met the shore. Even though I was old it was kind of scary? Like if the waves were strong enough they could definitely pull me under. But also I was only in to my ankles so it was funny I was nervous.”

“Seven... this is so cute,” you gushed. You knew your cheeks were heating up. Seven was always fun but it was special to hear him talk about such an important memory.

“Anyways. I only got in to my ankles that day. The sun was setting when I got there. The next day I went back and actually got in.”

“Aw! I wanna see little Seven at the ocean.”

“I was actually not little; I was about to enter college,” he commented matter-of-factly.

You just grinned. You couldn’t stop smiling. That was so Seven.

“You’re silent.”

Oops! You had forgotten to respond. “I’m just- that was a sweet story. It made me smile and it’s just so you. This sounds dumb but like... you’re you. You have complex thoughts and funny stories and cute moments. It’s hard since I’ve only talked to you over the phone. But you’re so... dimensional and bright Seven. I really like that about you.” He was real. And that’s what mattered. Seven was real.

He laughed. “I’m flattered to hear you think I have emotions? I would hope I did! Are you feeling any better?”

“So, so much better.” It was the truth. You were giggling over the phone, much more confident that V and Seven would save you and it would be okay.

A knock sounded at your door.

“Oops! I kept you on for too long. Good night Sev!”

“Good night! Hope you sleep well.”

Click.

Ray walked into the room, somewhat surprised to see you at the entrance. “I would have thought you had fallen asleep,” he explained awkwardly. “The lights were off. But you were laughing.”

“Oh, yeah. I was just, uh, playing the game.”

“Were you making a call?”

You nodded, trying to feign complete innocence. “I was talking to the hacker character.”

He stared at you blankly, his expressions not giving any thoughts away.

“Wait! I thought you meant V was the only real one. It made sense to me since you couldn’t pursue V in the game. I didn’t realize he also...”

Of course you realized. But you had to satisfy Ray.

He sighed, rubbing his temple. “Yes, but he’s the worst of them all. Did you tell him about tonight? What did you talk about?”

“Oh, no, I would never let them know what happened here. That’s our secret.” You giggled a little. “We actually just talked about the beach.”

“The beach?”

“Yeah. I was feeling stressed and it was the first topic that came to mind. Do you like the beach, Ray?”

He looked away from you. “I’ve... never been.”

“We’ll have to go someday! Or make a beach experience here. You’d really like it.”

“Okay,” he smiled. “We’ll do that after the ceremony. Thank you again for staying here with me. I promise I’ll bring you a fresh bouquet tomorrow.

Stay on his side for now, you reminded yourself. You took a step closer to him, hands trembling, and pulled him in for a hug. He jumped at first but reciprocated.

“I haven’t done this very much,” he explained awkwardly. One of his hands went down to rub your back comfortingly.

“Ray... I was scared.” That wasn’t a lie. You were scared. You still are.

“I know. Me too.” He pulled back to look at you. “Do you want some tea to help you fall asleep?”

V’s words rang in your mind. Don’t take anything they give you. “No thanks! Your presence... really helped. Thank you.”

“Okay. I’ll leave you to get some rest. Sweet dreams! And don’t worry about those other people. I’ll take care of it!” He closed the door behind him.

You would worry about those other people. You were relieved you got to talk to Seven, but you were worried about any more secrets Ray had against him that he could use in order to force you to stay here.

#mystic messenger #mysme #707 #Luciel Choi #saeyoung choi #v

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futurebicon · 3 years

Text

Carolina

Marine Biologist AU that no one asked for but I wrote because I miss my second home. Probably two parts.

Very brief mention of a family members death

"Hi welcome to-" Leo stopped his normal speech when he was met with the two most gorgeous men he had ever laid eyes on. "Welcome to the Fort Fisher aquarium. I'm your tour guide Leo and this is Regulus." He somehow managed to snap out of his shock even though the greeting was all muscle memory.

“Two guides. Must be special." The red haired one laughed a laugh that made doves fly. "I'm Finn." He shook their hands.

"That and both of us wanted a break from sticky children trying to swim with the sharks and gators." Reg smiled.

"Sharks? Like ocean sharks? And ocean alligators?" The shorter one asked in shock and a lot more than a sprinkle of fear.

'Fuck he's adorable' Leo swore internally. "Alligators are typically fresh water reptiles but if you are asking if they are real sharks and alligators, than no. They're they’re hyperealalistic mechanical sculptures." He kept a straight face.

"Cute and funny." Finn flashed him a smile after another angelic laugh.

Leo had to remind himself to not die right then and there.

“Don't worry, Logan" Finn told the other one. "I'll protect you from the scary teeth, baby."

Now Leo was sad.

“Oh yeah, right after you stop ogling over our hot tour guide."

Now Leo was slightly less sad and confused.

“Actually." Regulus pulled out his phone. "Our manager just texted and said he needs someone in the gift shop. Have fun." He left with a pat on Leos back.

Leo glared as he walked away, they didn't get texts from anyone for any assignment. Hence the walkie talkies on their belt loops.

“So, follow me and we can start the tour." +++

“This is our 235,000 gallon tank." Leo stood over top of the two story tall tank. In here we have our eagle rays, round stingrays, whiptail stingrays, hammerhead sharks, sandbar sharks, sand tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks. We also have two moray eels and an abundance of fish including shanks and groupers. And a personal favorite, Sheldon the green sea turtle.” Leo stood on the rusted grate with ease as if he didn’t care about the hammerhead only a few feet away from his toes.

“Um, this is great and all but can we not stand on the edge without a railing?” Logan stayed as far away as he could an the 2 feet wide walkway.

“You’re completely safe don’t worry.” Leo flashed a reassuring smile.

“Okay yeah but-”

“Stop being a baby, Lo.” Finn poked his side.

“I’m sorry I’m scared of falling into a 23 foot deep death cylinder filled with sharks.” Logan defended himself.

“Alright we can go officially start the tour.” Leo laughed. “But we do have to walk across the tank.”

“We what?” Logan asked.

“It’s okay. Just don’t look down.” He decided to risk a wink.

“Listen to the hot guide, babe.” Finn kissed Logan’s cheek. “I’ll hold your hand.”

“I love you, Harzy. But I do not trust you enough to not try and scare me.”

“I promi- no I don’t. Fine.” Finn whined when his plans were spoiled.

“Alright, let’s go.” Leo laughed.

They got across the walkway with only a few exaggerated wobbles to scare Logan. And a very grumpy Logan when Leo told him there was another way around the tank.

+++

“So here we have our bald eagle Maverick.” Leo walked up to the opened enclosure. “He’s five years old and has been here since he was two. He was found on the side of the road nearly starved after being hit by a car. If you look at his left wing you can see it juts out a little. That is due to the bones fusing together incorrectly and it makes him unable to ever fly again.” He recited the well known script.

“Poor baby” Finn stuck his bottom lip out.

Leo blinked away the urge to kiss the sad look off his face.

“If we walk up here you can see the aquariums prized possession.” Leo smiled. “Luna the albino Alligator.”

“Oh my god.” Finn hurried over to the glass.

“She looks like you, lover. Pale as fuck.” Logan teased.

“Luna is one of just 100 recorded albino alligators world wide.”

“World wide?” Logan asked in shock.

“Yeah. It’s an extremely rare genetic mutation and due to the inability to hide from predators they’re numbers are next to zero. Very soon they’ll be no more albino gators.”

“What happened to that alligators toes?” Logan pointed at the dark green alligator.

“That’s Gantur. He still hasn’t learn that Luna’s the leader.”

“She bit them off?” Logan’s eyes went wide.

“Don’t underestimate her. Ready to continue?”

+++

“This is my favorite exhibit.” Leo’s face lit up as they walked up to the touch pool.

“Touch anything as long as you use two fingers and don’t pick anything up.”

“Are those stingrays?” Finn pointed towards the end of the touch pool.

“Yeah. They’re still babies and their stingers have been trimmed. Their barbs are like thumbnails and can be clipped monthly without any harm.”

“What are those?”

Leo’s face lit up impossibly more.

“These are horseshoe crabs.” He held onto one of the dark greenish brown banjo shaped creature.

“They are also called living fossils due to the fact that they haven’t evolved at all since the dinosaurs, around 450 million years. It’s mostly due to the fact that they didn’t need anything added or taken away for survival. They were made perfectly. Now their tails.” He pointed to the long stick like end as it moved around with the help of what looked like scaley gills. “Most people look at it and think it will hurt. But it won’t hurt at all. They are extremely, extremely clumsy and use the long tail to flip themselves back over.”

“Sounds like you.” Finn kissed Logan.

“Rude.” Logan scoffed.

“Horseshoe crabs aren’t actually crabs at all. They’re actually more closely related to scorpions and spiders. Watch.” Leo smirked and flipped it over.

There were five pairs of claws moving around as the gills moved up and down like abs, causing the tail to move with it.

“Here-” Leo grabbed Logan’s hand, he tried hard to ignore the way his skin burned. “Touch it.”

“Oh no I’m okay to just look.”

“Come on, just touch it.” Leo begged. “Please just touch it.” He pouted.

“Oh my fuck you’re adorable.” Logan voiced Leo’s exact same thoughts from before.

“Here” he blushed and bit his lib to contain the smile. “Touch it.” He guided Logan’s hand down to the center of the legs, desperately trying to not think about how close they were. Logan’s t-shirt touching his blue polo shirt with his name stitched in the side. The way he could feel Logan’s breathing against his side, the way his leg was pressed between Logans le- stop it.

“Eww that feels weird” Logan’s laughed raised goosebumps on his arm.

“You’re touch his mouth.”

“Ew ew ew ew” Logan pulled his hand away quickly as Finn cackled.

“You asshole” Logan laughed as he pushed Leo lightly.

“Sorry, but it’s funny.” Leo laughed.

“You are now my second favorite person on earth.” Finn put a hand on Leo’s shoulder. “Oh my god I’m crying.” He wiped his eyes.

“Wouldn’t mind if he stayed our favorite.” Logan smiled.

Leo blushed and moved onto the regular view of the huge tank.

+++

“So how’d you get a job here?” Logan asked Leo as they walked around.

“I’ve lived on the island my whole life and started volunteering here when I was 13.” He explained. “I’m going to UNCW for marine biology. Are you two just here for vacation? Even though it’s April.”

“No. We’re actually moving down here. My grandparents owned the arcade on the boardwalk and left it to me once they passed.” Finn told him.

“Oh. I’m sorry about their passing.”

“It’s okay. Didn’t really know them at all.”

“Well I’ll hopefully see you around.”

“Maybe you don’t have to hope.”

Leo tilted his head in confusion.

“We were just wondering if you would want to show us around the island.” Logan told him. “We’ve only been here for a few days and this is the first place we’ve been to. Not even the beach.”

“Oh that’s nearly a sin.” Leo teased. “I’d love to show you guys around. I get off in an hour.”

“Perfect.” Finn said happily. “Do you want to drive over to our house and then switch cars or do you need to change?”

“That’ll work. There’s a locker room and since there’s next to no one here considering the time of year Evan will probably let me leave early.” Leo couldn’t hide his smile as they walked into the brightly lit gift shop.

Logan let out a loud gasp and ran over to the 6 foot long jellyfish stuffie. “I want it.”

“It’s tentacles are going to strangle you, love.” Finn shook his head.

“Kinky” Logan wiggled his eyebrows.

Finn scoffed as three other people in the quiet store laughed.

“Oh hi again Regulus.” Logan smiled at the black haired man who was sitting on the countertop beside the register tossing a brightly colored foam ball with turtles on it between his hands.

“Hey” He smiled back.

“What’d they need help with down here?” Finn looked around the empty room cluelessly.

“He didn’t help me?” The girl beside him raised an eyebrow. “Hi, Rue by the way.” She waved before going back to glaring at Regulus. “Did Evan tell you to help me?”

“No.” Reg smirked. “Just wanted to leave Leo alone with his crushes.”

“Reg” Leo pushed him.

“It’s mutual.” Finn said and Logan nodded.

“Okay. I’m gonna go ask Evan if I can get off early so I can show you a tour of the island and then get changed and I’ll be back down.” Leo changed the subject quickly.

“They’ll show you a tour of their bedroom and then get you off early.” Rue said quietly but not quiet enough. Leo shoved her hard as Logan, Finn, and Reg cackled.

+++

“So are we ready?” Leo walked back down in shorts and a UNCW t-shirt.

A cropped UNCW t-shirt.

“Uh- yeah. Yeah. Um, yeah.” Finn stuttered failing to make it look like he wasn’t staring at Leo’s tan abs.

Finn on the other hand had no shame. His eyes raked his entire body as his mouth went dry.

“Alright. I’ll follow you guys?”

“Huh? Oh yeah.” Logan nodded.

“Get it Knut.” Reg cupped his hands over his mouth and shouted as they left the gift shop and headed outside to the 100 degree weather.

@lumosinlove

#lumosinlove #sweater weather #sweater weather lumosinlove #oknutzy #Carolina

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jasmindoodles · 3 years

Text

“I’m not just another number”

Pairing: Arc trooper Fives x oc

Word count: 4.7k

Warning: None

A/N: This chapter was recently been updated, so some things have changed but its still mostly the same idea. Big thanks to my friend Alexa for helping me, couldn’t have done it without her!

Chapter: 1 | 2 |

Chp. 1- A sight to behold

Fives really didn’t have any expectations for his first mission after being promoted to arc trooper, but this certainly wasn’t it. He was on a diplomatic mission of all things. He was to accompany General Skywalker and General Kenobi. Along with him Commander Cody, Captain Rex, and Echo were also requested to come along. This was a very special mission personally requested by Senator Amidala herself. They were asked to go to a planet called “Toralu” who was interested in discussing a possible alliance. He definitely wasn’t going to complain about coming here though. On his travels he had heard rumors and whispers of Toralu’s wild, lush, and mountainous landscape. It was said to be one of the most breath-taking planets in its system.

As the dropship approached the surface of the planet the side doors opened.

Suddenly As the ship turned a ray of warm orange light seeped through the door.

“Gosh my eyes! Of course, I have to be standing right next to the door.” Fives though as he quickly raised his hand to shield his eyes. As his eyes slowly adjusted to the light, he lowered his hand to finally reveal the planet below.

“The rumors really don’t have anything on this planet” Fives admitted to himself as he gazed out the ship.

Below stood a planet with never ending golden sands and glimmering turquoise waters. From the sands bust forth black rock cliffs caped in deep green brush, flowing into low dense valleys. The Landscape was dotted with exotic Flora and flowers as far as the eye could see. The planet just screamed warmth and life. From its thick forests, delicate flowers, to its tranquil seas. As his glimpse of the shores disappeared, he instead turned his attention to their white circular landing pad.

Alright men get ready were dropping shortly, stated Rex. Fives started gathering all his gear together.

Once the ship landed fives exited the ship in line. As he stepped down off the ship and scanned his surroundings, he immediately landed on the magnificent palace. There in the mountains stood a palace that beamed golden rays as if manifesting the sun itself. It seemingly melded and became one with the earth as vines flowed and intertwined with its many archways. The outside of The Place had wing-like glass archways that wrapped around the entirety of the building. From there rose sharp curved towers that resembled tongues of golden fire, reaching as if to touch the heavens. These towers encircled a dome of shimmering glass holding high the queen’s royal crest.

“Fives can you get your head out of the clouds and stop gawking at the planet. Hurry up and get on line, we don’t have all day” shouted Rex. Swiftly Exiting the ship behind the generals, they were immediately stopped and meet with greeters and other servants.

“Hello welcome honored quest, we are so pleased to have you on Toralu! Please take these gifts, as they are directly from the queen” stated the head Greeter. In the greeter’s hand lay a Flower clip. The flower had a crown of fuchsia petals blending into the bell-shaped purple petals below. It slowly draped down with short fuchsia vines holding little buds at the end. Please wear them when you’re in the palace as they signify that you all are special guests of the queen. If you need anything, please show this clip to any servant and your needs will be swiftly taken care of. All the servants quickly bowed and held out the flower clips to each person.

“Well at least the locals are friendly” Fives though to himself.

As they are handed the gifts, He just looks at Echo mildly amused, shrugging at one another not knowing what to do with the gifts they’ve been handed. Quickly he scrambles to find a place to clip it on him. He clips it on his belt and follows the generals down the walkway.

The group is escorted by a few of the servants down a long path that eventually leads to the palace. As the entrance slowly came into view, they noticed how heavily guarded it is. The doors were made of heavy gold being at least 3 times any human’s size. The entrance truly looked impenetrable. Once they approached the generals moved to the side to speak to one of the queen’s greeters privately. After a few moments passed General Skywalker quickly motioned for them to follow him. They followed him down a crescent shaped hallway with tall arch’s All the ceilings and adjacent archways were delicately painted with gold and elaborate paintings decorated the walls. Finally, they had reached the end of their walk as they came to stop at an impressive and imposing throne room. As they entered the first thing, they noticed an intricately crafted marble floor which led to a set of tall stairs. The stairs skillfully lead their eyes up to a large throne which sat perfectly Infront of a plethora of floor to ceiling windows.

Suddenly he noticed there were three people talking to one another off to the side, a man and two ladies. One of the women had her back to them, so he couldn’t see any of her features. Something about her though just captivated all his attention. He felt like he couldn’t look away even if he wanted to.

From behind he could see she was dressed in a long floor length dress that softly swayed as she moved. The Dress was a delicate mint that slowly faded down to a bright fuchsia. The gown was also adorned with golden shoulder plates that wrapped around the back of her neck making a high collar. Her shoulder plates connected to puffy sheer sleeves that tightened around her forearms. The rest of her was hidden from his view because of her long flowing brown hair, which she had half pinned up in an elaborate headpiece.

As the greeter made their presence known to her, she turned around to greet her guests. When he finally laid eyes on her, she completely took his breath away. There were so many rumors about how breathtaking the planet was, but they had never mentioned how the people were even more so. As she gracefully walked closer, he saw how elaborately she was dressed. It finally hit him.

“Oh my Goodness she’s the queen”! Queen Kira Luana! Fives though.

With her now In full view he could soak in everything about her. She had piercing mint eyes that were calculating and gentle. He also noticed how she had multiple thin golden markings. One that curved from the top of her cheekbones down to the corners of her lips, and another that started at the bottom of her lower lip and traveled under her chin. With her gown fully in view he noticed the dress’s heart shaped neckline trimmed with gold. She also wore a gold-plated corset belt, complementing her hourglass figure. The dress fanned out into two flowing front slits giving view to her clothed legs. Her hair swayed delicately as she walked closer and making his heart race faster and faster as she grew near.

She greeted the generals first, her smooth and silky voice sending shivers down his spine. Then she turned her attention to him and his fellow clones, giving them a sweet smile. Seeing just her smile made his heart flutter and him feel knees feel weak,

‘Get a hold of yourself Fives!’ he thought scoldingly.

She asks the generals in a gentle voice “Would your troops be so kind as to remove their helmets, please? I would like to see the rest of my guests' faces.”

‘Oh no!’ He thinks.

General Skywalker tilted his head back with a smirk and a small chuckle saying “Well boys you heard the queen, remove the helmets”

As he removed his helmet, he can feel himself start to blush, making him feel more flustered.

‘It’s not like I’ve never seen a pretty girl before! What is up with me! Come on get yourself together Fives!’ He thinks to himself. She’s different though. She is the most beautiful person he’d ever laid his eyes upon. She wasn’t your typical pretty face you would meet at 79s, she is a queen. Fives stared to get the strange feeling that someone was looking at him intently. As he looked to his left, he was immediately meet with a scolding gaze from Echo. That look firmly told him to get himself together and straighten up. The queen started to speak grabbing everyone’s attention, diffusing the growing tension between Five’s and Echo.

“Oh my, who knew there were such handsome faces hidden underneath those helmets” she said as she walked past them examining them.

Any semblance of composure that Fives had gained went out the window at her words. What she said left him even more of a flustered mess then before. Kira swiftly turned back towards the General’s to discuss details about their stay on Toralu. Out of nowhere, Fives suddenly felt Echo jab his elbow into his side causing him to jump and be abruptly brought out of his daze.

Two servants then walked into the throne room and once they finished talking stepped in front of the General’s.

“Generals’ if you would please allow us, we would like to show you and your warriors to your respective rooms” said the servant’s.

“Of course, Thank you, please lead the way” Obi One said as he gestured forward. After walking down more arched golden hallways they reached their destination. They stopped in front of two side by side doors.

“These will be the rooms you’ll be staying in.”

“Generals, you both will be staying in the left room and your men will stay in the right room beside yours. I’ll show you the room inside, Kamikara will show your men their room.” The two servant’s then ushered them separately.

As the clones walked in the room, they all gawked at how lavish it was. It had high arched ceilings, windows with a view, and best of all white plush beds with mountains of pillows. Fives immediately turned around and asked the servant ‘This can’t be our room, are you sure you’ve got the right place?”

“Oh most certainly, only the best for the Queen’s quests” Kamikara said confidently.

“Now there are fresh clean clothes on the beds for you to change into if you so wish. Also, the refresher is on the right and a gentle reminder that the queen would like to have all of your presences at dinner at 19:00”.

“Wait, does the Queen actually want us to dine with her and the generals?” Fives blurted out.

The servant girl looked taken aback and momentarily confused but then answered, “Why yes of course, it’s customary to feast with all the guests here on Toralu.”

Fives then said with a confused look on his face “But we’re just soldiers, we’re not meant to dine with a queen.”

“To the queen it matters not what rank you are, she views everyone as her equal and wants to make everyone feel welcomed. Unless you want to upset her by not coming to dine with her?”

Cody jumped in immediately “Don’t mind my friend here, we’re just not used to being the ones invited to dine. I assure you we’ll be ready for dinner at the proper time”

Kamikara’s slight frown quickly became a large bubbly smile at Cody’s words. “Perfect! I’ll come by a few minutes before to escort you all to the dining room. In the meantime, you can relax in your room or feel free to walk around the palace, even roam around the city as well, if you so please. If you need anything, use the intercom by the door and a servant will come, there are also servants all around the palace if you are in need of assistance. Now before I take my leave, do any of you have any questions or in need of something?”

Everyone was in shock by what she had said, but then he heard Rex clear his throat and say “No, thank you ma’am, um we’re fine.”

Ok great! Well, I hope you enjoy your stay here. Kamikara said as she left the room.

Fives scoffed “Wow! I can’t believe this room is for us. Hey Cody, Rex, does this usually happen in these types of missions? You know, where we're treated like normal people.”

Cody chuckled, “Enjoy it while you can Fives.” Echo playfully shoving him in the process.

Cody started walking to the door with Rex not far behind “We’re going to go speak with the generals. You boys enjoy yourselves in the meantime.” Cody mockingly said.

Fives curiously raised his eyebrow at them as they left. Eventually though he turned and looked at Echo shrugging it off guessing whatever it was they were going to talk about, he didn’t need to know.

“You heard the captain.”

Fives made a mad dash for the bed playfully shoving Echo out of the way in the process. Once Fives reached the bed he fell back on the soft plush bed. Relishing in how soft the bed was he buried himself in the mounds of pillows. Echo just shook his head and sighed as he walked towards the refresher. Once fives heard the door shut, he sat up and thought “Well if I want to explore the room, now is the time”. As he got up and walked around the room, he noticed a large balcony thru a frosted glass door. As he opened the door to the balcony, his face was hit by a warm gentle breeze. The wind carried the sweet smell of exotic flowers and the salty bite of the sea.

“Man, I just can’t get enough of this smell” Five’s though as he took in a large deep breath.

He felt the tension leave his neck and shoulders as all his senses took in the flora and beach that laid in his view. Behind him he heard Echo open the door to the refresher, slowing walking back in the room. Fives walked towards the door and leaned on its frame. “Echo you have got to see this view it’s amazing!”

“Ok, well if you would move your big butt out of the door then maybe I would!” Echo said with a playful smirk.

Just as Echo reached the door Cody opened the Front door with Rex in tow. Immediately Echo and Fives stopped and straightened up getting in line. “What are our orders Commander?”

There are none for right now, the generals are going to speak with the Queen, so I suggest you both should take this opportunity to rest up.”

“Yes sir!” Both Echo and Fives then relaxed and moved over to sitting down on their beds.

Echo quickly got comfortable lounging back on his bed. “Finally, I’m going to get a chance to read up on my data pad.”

Fives just shook his head while saying under his breath “Echo I think you were left in your growth chat too long.”

Fives slowly laid down on the soft bed. “Honestly it feels so strange laying on something so comfy. I don’t know, maybe I’m just too used to our rocks for beds.” As he got comfortable his eyes slowly grew heavier and heavier, until eventually Fives was fast asleep.

Fives bolted up from his sleep in a panic, sweat slowly dripping down his brow. ‘ It was just a nightmare” fives panted. “Gosh what time is it.” Taking a quick glance at the clock he noticed almost 2 hours had passed by, fortunately there was still plenty of time before dinner. Scanning the room he looked over to where Echo should be on his bed, but it was empty. Cody and Rex were nowhere to be seen. “I wonder if I should comm them?”As he reached to grab his comm fives thought, “ Wait… they may be in negotiations with the general’s and queen, best not bother them.” As fives pondered it hit him. “I know I’ll bother Echo!” he grabbed his comm an dialed.

“Hey Echo, where are you?”

“Oh, I’m in the art gallery.”

“Art gallery?”

“Yeah, I wanted to learn more about the culture of Toralu and there just so happened to be a gallery in the palace. It’s got so much interesting art and it's full of fascinating cultural pieces, ooooh wow like this unique plant life ....” Echo’s voice trailed off as something grabbed his attention and distracted him from the conversation. As Fives stood there waiting for Echo to regain his focus he rolled his eyes, growing in his frustration.

“Echo! Just tell me how to get to you?!” he impatiently shouted.

“Oh that’s easy, when you leave the room take a left down the hall, then walk a little and take a right and to your left there should be a large fountain, it’s right on the other side of it.”

“Finally! Ok, I’m coming to you.”

If he remembered right, there were supposed to be two servants alongside two guards on either side of the hallway. Coming out of the room he looked left and right, and just as he thought there were two servants alongside two guards on either side of the hallway. He turned left out of his door and respectfully nodded at the guards and servant’s as he walked past them. After some time of walking down the hallway, fives started to notice what looked like two entrances on the right.

“That can’t be right! Echo never mentioned two entrances.”

Running his hands through his hair in frustration fives sarcastically huffed “This is just great!

Finally calming down fives leaned back against the wall pushing his head back, “Ok think, what should I do? I could comm Echo but who knows how long it would take to get an answer out of him. Or I could just go for it since I do have a fifty-fifty chance.”

Running his hand over his temples and through his hair he reluctantly came to the conclusion “I’m just going to go for it and choose the closest entrance. What’s the worst that could happen anyways?

Walking down the hall for a few minutes fives let out a long frustrated sigh “This is taking way too long, I should have reached the fountain already.”

“It’s got to be just around the corner, this place can’t be that big” thinking to himself in denial.

After walking for what seemed like forever, he saw a grand entrance at the end of the hallway. Getting closer he noticed the entry archway had massive marble pillars covered in vines sprinkled with small purple flowers. Past the archway laid a well-manicured courtyard and a magnificent view of the ocean. Taking in the elegant scenery fives thought,

“Echo never said anything about this place but maybe the gallery entrance is somewhere around here?” As he scoured for anything that looked like the entrance to the art gallery, he suddenly heard voices. Being curious he followed the voices and straight away stumbled upon the queen and her advisers.

Panic sets in and he rushes back to the hallway hiding behind the wall, he peaks around the corner and sees she’s turned opposite to him, talking with her advisers. ‘Why am I so nervous?! Also why am I hiding?’ Thinking to himself, he notices another entrance on the other side of the opening and looks back where the queen was. She was still distracted talking, so he took his chance and tried his best to look inconspicuous but just a few steps in and the queen noticed.

“Excuse me!” Fives winced and stopped dead in his tracks.

“You’re one of general Skywalker’s troopers, correct?” Going into autopilot Fives turns around while straightening himself answering “Yes sir. Arc trooper Fives at your service.”

Fives relaxed enough to lay his gaze upon the one asking the question and there in front of him stood in all her beauty, Queen Kira Luana. Making his breathing hitch and sending his heart racing.

She smiles at him sweetly and starts walking towards him. ‘By the force she’s beautiful!’ He thinks to himself, clenching his fist tighter as she gets closer. He keeps his eyes looking straight forward for fear that if he looked directly at her he would crack.

She stops in front of him and asks in a very gentle and smooth voice “are you lost Fives?” He can feel lightning crawling up his spine at her saying his name so gentle, making him weak at the knees. So in tranced by her words he almost doesn’t answer her, stuttering for a response he clears his throat “Um n-no your highness, I-I was uhh going to the visitors art gallery! Haha” ‘Wow! Really Fives!? That sounded so stupid!’

She smiles endearingly up at him humming. ‘Oh my force! Stop it woman!! Are you trying to give me a heart attack’

“Well if you’re going to the visitors art gallery you’re going in the complete opposite way.” Now she’s just smirking at him. Embarrassed now, he tries to act confident “I knew that, I just wanted to take a detour is all, considering how beautiful this palace is.” Smiling like a buffoon.

Raising an eyebrow at him she says in response “You have no idea where you are, do you?

Realizing he’s been figured out, sighs “Forgive me your highness, I think I might’ve taken the wrong turn, if you could just point me in the direction of the gallery and I’ll be out of your way.” Says defeatedly.

She looks pass him down the hallway and says “I could” then looks back at him “But first I have a favor to ask of you.” Looking back at him.

Confused he stutters to ask “uhh umm what w-would that favor be, your highness?” Trying to give a dashing smile but failing in the process.

At that she smiles again at him “ Would you mind walking with me to the gardens?”

He raises his eyebrows not knowing to respond,” uhhh-“ before he can answer she cuts him off saying “ If you don’t want to, that is fine I understand, you are probably tired and would like to rest.” Looking a little disappointed. He immediately jumps to says “N-No! I-I w-would love too! It would be an honor!” At that she instantly perked up, smiling once again. Before they start walking she turns back to her advisers and dismisses them. Turning back to Fives she grabs his arm, making him blush to the point where he has to turn his head the other way so she wouldn’t notice.

As they walk in unison Fives sorta starts to calm his heartbeat, until the queen starts talking. “I hope your rooms are to your liking, I’ve never had clones stay at my palace before, so I wasn’t exactly sure what you all would like.” Fives almost choked on his own saliva at what he was hearing, but quickly composed himself. “Trust me it is more than fine. Thank you, your highness. You didn’t have to do that for us clones, we’re used to far less.” Ending his statement with a nervous laugh.

“That’s... Disheartening to hear, you and your men are what’s holding up the Republic’s side of the war alongside the Jedi. Surely you should be recognized for your hard work, right? You all are putting your lives on the line and should be treated with the highest regard; although I know war is not a very accommodating situation. ” Looking at him with concern.

“That’s very kind of you to think that of us, your highness. But we are just another weapon of the Republic, we’re meant to be expendable. Me and my brothers aren’t even considered living beings to some.” He looks away as he says that, clenching his jaw.

Kira looking upset at his words “But that is not true! How could someone or anybody for that matter look at you and think you are not a living being? It’s outrageous!!” Fives response “Maybe it’s because others don’t understand or just don’t know, some look down upon us because we are genetically made instead of naturally born, like the rest of the galaxy.”

Thinking on what he says the queen takes a deep breath and exhales as she begins again “ I’m sorry about that, truly I am. No one or thing should be treated like that. Me and my people, we are taught to value all living beings whether they are born through the will of the force or genetically made. Know that even though my planet is neutral and does not participate in this war, you and your brothers are valued in my eyes and in the eyes of my people.” Fives a bit shocked goes on “ Thank you, your highness. That means a lot coming from someone such as yourself.”

“ All who meet you should be thanking you and your brothers for your sacrifices” bringing her hand to her chin in a thinking pose, she responds “ and I thank you for telling me this, I’ll have to take it into consideration for when I make my decision.”

“Pardon?” he was a bit confused at her words. She looks back at him “ oh do not worry, just know you have opened my eyes to a world unbeknownst to me, I thank you for that.” Looking forward again.

“If I may ask your highness, how do you treat your soldiers?”

“Well for one, we do not call them soldiers, we call them Makakoin warriors and they are treated with the highest respect. They’re specially chosen and put into training from a very young age. From the Makakoin warriors only a few are selected to actually be the queen's royal bodyguards. It requires even harsher training that not everyone can withstand. The ones who become warriors are given one of the highest honors and in return they honor and benefit their families. It’s quite different from the Republic who mass-produce soldiers and from what you told me, see you as nothing but weapons. I mean no offense by that.”

That last part makes him chuckle a little “ None taken, us clones are just the republics means to an end. Many beings view us as disposable instruments of war but a few appreciate and value us for who we are. What you speak of though has many similarities to how our Jedi are selected.

“Exactly! Our training and beliefs are very similar to the Jedi and we greatly respect their methods of training.''

“Now, it’s my turn to ask a question” She looked at him with mischief in her eyes, which made simultaneously excited and nervous. “Oh dear, please your majesty have mercy on me.” Saying it in a playful way which made her giggle and that made him blush again but also feel pride in knowing he was the cause for that lovely sound, he

had to bite his bottom lip to keep himself from smiling like a giddy little boy. “Hmm you’ve peaked my interest Fives.”

“I hope that’s a good thing.” as they keep on with their conversation he becomes more relaxed and has this weird fuzzy feeling inside.

___________

Meanwhile echo was starting to get a bit concerned that he hasn’t seen Fives yet. ‘He should have been there by now!’ Echo thinks while he’s looking around the gallery. As he does so a servant notices him and asks if everything is ok. “Yes, I’m just looking for my brother.” He goes to exit the gallery in an attempt to find his mischievous brother. ‘Ugh he probably got lost, the fool! Frustrated, he goes down to the fountain to see if by some chance he’s there, but sadly he wasn’t. He goes to com him but he doesn’t answer “oh come on Fives answer me!” But no response. So he coms Rex to see if by some miracle Fives was with him.

“What is it, Echo?”

“Sir, is Fives with you?”

“No. I thought he was with you. Please don’t tell me he’s run off somewhere unsupervised.”

Echo can hear the dread in his voice “Well, uhh about that sir...”

“I don’t want to hear it, just go find him and come back to the room.”

“Yes sir, Roger that!”

#star wars #star wars au #arc trooper fives #arc trooper echo #fives x oc #fives x kira #the clone wars #star wars: the clone wars #fanfic #my oc Kira #kira luana #I’m not just another number #Fives x Kira fanfic

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higuchimon · 3 years

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[fanfic] Osiris Red Hot Springs

i"Come on!" Juudai dragged on Manjoume's coat. Manjoume tried to pry him off but he wasn't having a great deal of luck with it. Juudai seemed more like an octopus than anything else, grabbing and insisting that Manjoume come along with him.

"What are you talking about?" Manjoume grumbled. He'd intended to stay in his room and get some rest. Unfortunately, he'd needed to go out and get food since Osiris Red didn't offer room service like a reasonable dorm. He'd barely started to eat what they'd served him - did it really count as food? - before Juudai popped up, babbled something about showing him the "hidden wonders of Osiris Red" and dragged him away.

"Didn't you hear me?" Juudai's eyes twinkled at him. Manjoume didn't think anyone's eyes could have twinkled, but Juudai's did. Not a single bit of brains in there, but plenty of fluff, and more than enough strength to haul him along to wherever Juudai wanted to go. "We're going to see the hidden wonders of Osiris Red! Have you ever been to the hot springs?"

"Of course I have!" Manjoume snorted. He would have crossed his arms over his chest if Juudai didn't have a grip on his arm. "The Obelisk Blue hot springs are some of the best hot springs ever!" He would know. He'd been to some of the most fantastic hot springs in all of Japan. Obelisk Blue's springs ranked in the top five in his opinion.

"Not those!" Juudai waved his free hand dismissively, as if the Obelisk Blue hot springs weren't worth his time. Clearly he'd never seen them. "I mean the Osiris Red hot springs!"

There were several springs on the island. Two for the Blue dorm, one for the Yellow dorm, and Manjoume guessed it wasn't such a strange idea that Red also had one. There were plenty of them on the island in general. There was even two in the main building itself, one near the infirmary and one somewhere else, for the teachers. The other hot springs were reserved for specific dorms. The one near the infirmary could be accessed by anyone at all, regardless of dorm. He'd visited it once or twice, but he'd always preferred using the Obelisk Blue hot springs.

But right now, Manjoume's lip curled faintly. "What's so special about that?" He could imagine what it would be like. Just because it was a hot spring didn't mean that it would be what he was used to - a beautiful work of art, with polished statues and spigots emitting a variety of lovely scents and soaps and lotions, with many helpful attendants who'd scrubbed his back, scrubbed between his toes, and offered a vast array of snacks and drinks to choose from while he'd enjoyed himself, as well as soft, heated, and scented towels. He'd spent many lovely hours in there, soaking up water and sunlight alike. It was even better than at home. He was going to miss not being able to go there.

What would the Osiris Red springs be like? Small, he decided, and probably dark. Busted light bulbs and it probably hadn't been properly scrubbed in a while. He'd seen the Osiris Red showers and they were tolerable. Someone clearly went to a lot of effort to keep them clean, though Manjoume had no idea of why. They were Red. No one would care if it all piled up. Someone probably just didn't want to go to the extra effort that would result by ignoring it.

Juudai kept on dragging him through the trees. Manjoume tried to get his arm free but nothing he did actually worked. He probably could have tried harder, but the farther they went into the woods, the harder it was to see where they were going. He didn't have the faintest idea of where they were going and unfortunately, Juudai's grip on his arm was the only thing that kept him from being utterly lost.

"Where are you taking me?" Manjoume finally snapped out the question. He wasn't sure if he expected a proper answer or not. "This isn't where the hot springs are!" Though to be fair, he didn't really know where they were. He just sort of knew they existed. But he did know they weren't half an hour’s walk into the woods!

"I told you!" Juudai declared. "It's the Osiris Red hot springs." He made a face, something like what Manjoume thought he looked like when Juudai turned up at his door. "Not those tiny ones, though. That's boring."

Oh, no. Manjoume groaned quietly. Juudai was taking him somewhere else. No one else knew they were out here. Marufuji was busy studying - he needed all the help he could get - and Maeda was drawing or something. Manjoume wasn't at all sure why he was drawing, but because he was, it was just the two of them out here. That wasn't how Manjoume looked forward to spending any amount of time.

Before he could stop long enough to express his distaste for that, Juudai lifted a branch out of the way and Manjoume could see clear space beyond. After grass tufts catching his feet and twigs and branches lodging themselves in his hair, bugs helping themselves to his sweat and trying to do the same to his blood, he couldn't have been more glad to see a clearing. Instead of holding back, he surged forward, going past Juudai and stumbling to a halt.

"Here we are!" Juudai declared, spreading his arms wide as if to embrace the whole area, and even worse, as if he'd invented this entire place out of whole cloth. "This is the official Osiris Red hot springs! At least as far as I'm concerned."

Manjoume slowly looked around. The hot springs on Duel Academia that he knew something about were all enclosed in buildings of various sorts. They had windows and doors. Obelisk Blue had rugs in the antechamber.

This place didn't. This was a wide pool set beside some moss-covered cliffs. He could hear water falling from somewhere out of sight. Large rocks rose out of the steaming water and there was a spread of sand on one side that would do for a beach.

There were several rocks close enough to climb on and still be in the water. Manjoume looked all the way around as slanted rays of sunlight arched into the area, sending up sparkles from the water as they struck it. If he hadn't known better, he would have actually called it beautiful. But he wasn't going to call it beautiful if Juudai liked it. Juudai didn't have taste. If he liked it, there was clearly something wrong with this place. Manjoume just didn't know what it was yet.

"You have got to be kidding me," he muttered, gripping onto the towel Juudai had tossed to him when first taking him on this wild ride. He knew his luck wasn't that good, though, not when Juudai merrily tossed his clothes off and died into the wide pool - perhaps more accurately called a lake. He looked as if he were actually happy doing this, instead of being in a proper hot springs! Had Juudai ever been to a proper hot springs? Probably not.

There wasn't any soap that he could see. The only towels were the ones that they'd brought with them. Certainly not a single attendant to wash between his toes or wash his hair or do anything. He'd been getting more used to doing things himself and he rather liked the feeling that came with learning to do for himself. His brothers would never approve. Yet day by day he cared less and less what they thought. There wasn't much that they could do regardless. Try as they might, they couldn't even cut him off from his share of the money. Their parents' will made sure that was impossible.

He could have bought all those cards that they'd wanted to give him. He could have bought virtually any card that he wanted - he tried not to think about their ill-fated attempt to purchase the legendary Gem Beast deck - but that didn't make a good duelist. He'd learned that the long, slow, and hard way. What made a great duelist was the ability to forge winning combos from nothing at all.

He was getting very good at that. He was a good duelist. He was going to be a great one. He would be better than they ever dreamed of, and they would beg for his help instead of assuming that they would get it no matter what. Even better, he might not give it to them.

"Come on, Manjoume!" Juudai waved at him, pulling Manjoume out of his thoughts before he could fully be absorbed into his fantasy of his brothers begging for his talents. "Come on in, the water's fine! We can wash each other's back later! I haven't seen the bear around here in ages!"

Manjoume snorted as he headed towards the water. As if he'd ever wash Juudai's back or let Juudai wash his own. One good bath and that would be it. Maybe a little sunning afterwards. He'd gotten a little paler on his trip up north.

But nothing else. He could learn things in Red, but this was only a single stopping point on his way back to Blue.

Then he stopped. "Juudai? Did you say bear?"

The End

Notes: No, Manjoume didn’t get eaten by the bear. Neither did Juudai. The bear is friendly.

#fanfic #higuchimon writes #ygo gx #gxmonth2021 #manjoume jun #yuuki juudai

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cle1024 · 4 years

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beyond the silver horizon | lfl

member: lee felix

genre: angst

summary: everything you told me, the words you whispered into that stinging winter atmosphere, was spoken far too late. mafia!au

warnings: violence, death

a/n: an anon requested mafia angst with felix, i hope this lives up to expectations <3 i got inspiration for this story after listening to seventeen from the heathers and watching a quiet place, i didn’t think a horror movie could make me that sad but i’m also a notorious crier! also i’m very sorry i disappear for such long periods of time i’m in my final year of school and suck at time management anyway love you

The sky pooled with the blue of faded jeans and snowcloud grey, the abysmal winter taking the common popularity far from the sandy miles and crashing tides. It was at its peak in winter, despite being a beach. It flawlessly transformed from a bustling getaway to a tranquil sanctuary, one you had come to share with another. Felix’s silver hair often matched that of the beyond skyline, the sun’s muted rays being overpowered by cool-toned clouds. Words often went unexchanged in such moments, as the two of you preferred to bask in all the peace and serenity. In those moments, you would feel free—no longer looking over your shoulder with caution, watching your friends walk out of doors they may never walk through again. Instead, it was just waves. Crashing water flowing back and forth, back and forth. They never went away. Felix had never spoken many words while you found yourselves sat on the cold sand together, though the few he aired always stuck in your mind. They were words you’d unknowingly yearned to hear, words that allowed you to escape to a fantasy each night as your eyes closed until the morning.

“Someday, we’ll go far beyond that silver horizon,” he had promised you, “we’ll leave it all behind for a new beginning.”

“You really think so?”

He smiled at you reassuringly as he nodded gently, “I know we will.”

The day Felix met you wasn’t unusual, nor was it anything special at the time. He couldn’t remember how he found himself caught up in the world of drug lords and shady business, but he remembered exactly when he laid eyes on you — four in the afternoon he witnessed Minho leading you to Chan’s office, neither of you with pleasant facial expressions. Minho looked bored, you looked irritated, he didn’t want to know how Chan looked. As much as he expected to watch you disappear into the confines of his boss’ office and never reappear, at five o’clock he observed you leaving the office with Chan, the man smiling with satisfaction, victorious. Felix could remember watching you navigate your way around the base for a few days before Changbin grew tired of the male’s intense observation, said he looked like he was “trying to turn the damn kid into ice!”

From what he understood, though never confirmed, you were down on your luck, broke, and made the mistake of robbing Minho—successfully, much to the dismay of the male’s ego. It didn’t take the bright haired male long to track you down and drag you back to base, not with the expectation of grievous punishment, but with the intention of acquiring you a job. Minho was frequently forgiving, unlike most, and considered you lucky to have chosen him instead of someone else—someone much more ruthless, bloodthirsty. Chan wasn’t hesitant in persuading you to join, Minho was one of the most perceptive people he’d ever met; he was observant, strong-minded, soft-spoken and thought in ways he had never once considered. And he was usually right, but Chan didn’t want to inflate his ego too much.

Three months into the job, as unconventional as it was, you spoke your first words to Felix. They were words he’d heard in countless variations prior, yet something about your voice resonated deep within him, almost as if a ray of moonlight had struck his soul and encased it.

“Chan said we have business together, can I trust you?”

“Always.”

Felix didn’t question you back, despite tradition. Somehow, he knew you’d give the same answer. It was laced in the gentle smile you futilely suppressed.

Trickling down the glass windows, beads of perspiration and rain water scattered across the window pane. Your eyes watched the droplets slide from their original position on the glass to the bottom, replaced by another splash of crystal liquid. Felix glanced at you momentarily; it was bizarre how things had changed so swiftly. Three months since the first time you spoke — the same amount of time it took the two of you to verbally communicate for the first time — yet it felt as if you were engaged in a three year long friendship. The two of you had found freedom, paradise, in the sandy shores of an unpatrolled beach, no matter how abysmal in appearance. The two of you were yet to experience a beach in nice weather, together at least, instead sticking to the depressing atmosphere of chilled winter days, the scenery a colour scheme suitable to Felix’s ash blonde, white, or silver strands of hair. It was coincidental to begin with, then it became an innocent rendezvous requested in moments of loneliness and exhaustion. The freckled male wished he could take credit for the organisation of such ‘bonding’, so to speak, but it was your proposal, spoken as poetically as ever — “perhaps we should make this our own utopia, hey? Watch the oscillation of murky water plunge into abysmal depths.” Felix wasn’t sure how to respond the first time around, the eloquence of your words stunning him momentarily. All his brain could think was: “yeah, whatever that means.” He had simply nodded instead. Though, truthfully, he didn’t really care what it meant. If it granted him time with you, he would be willing to make it a tradition.

That beach became your utopia, a hideaway from the consequences of the lifestyle the two of you found yourselves entangled in. Whether you sat under the shelter of Felix’s clunky black buick or amongst the scattered sand grains, the soothing sound of crashing waves washing the shoreline put the two of you at ease. It was escapism at its finest. Even when the topic of your line of work—if it could even be considered a form of employment—was brought up, it felt as if it were a hypothetical scenario. “If you were a part of the mafia, would you want to escape?” rather than “do you think we could ever escape being in the mafia?” You always answered no while Felix maintained hope, but you both seldomly pondered how you could escape a lifestyle that was so omnipresent.

The pair of you found yourselves sat within the same clean car three weeks later, travelling down a long stretch of smoothly paved highway with obscured chatter being emitted from the silver radio. It wasn’t for a blissful escape this time. Rather, a job—or mission, you still didn’t know how to appropriately refer to the actions you were sent out to perform. Felix knew more of the situation than you knew, mainly because you zoned out halfway through Changbin’s explanation of the whole situation. Then again, you didn’t really care to know the extensive reasoning Changbin had for why certain things had to be done, as long as you got the job done and weren’t fucking murdered for not doing so, you didn’t really care. You’d spent the majority of the four hour car ride staring out the window, watching cars wizz past at illegal speeds, even for a highway, and trees blur into green masses of indistinct leaves and skinny branches. It only became evident that you had reached some form of civilisation when the pine trees evolved into small convenience stores and quaint homes, then towering skyscrapers and elegant apartments. The buzz of the radio, a sound you’d become accustomed to over the hours, was intercepted by Felix’s deep voice, “we’ll have to leave for the museum at six tomorrow evening. I’ll explain the situation on the way, I know you weren’t listening,” he teased cheekily.

You smiled mildly with a roll of your eyes, “you’re the boss—oh, wait.”

Felix scoffed and smacked your shoulder lightly, “get out of my car before I throw you out and leave.”

“Shut it, Lix’. You love me.”

A shit-eating grin was spread across your face as you took your gym bag from the boot, turning on your foot to enter the luxurious hotel. Felix smiled fondly at you—shit. Perhaps he did.

The hotel room was what Changbin would describe as ‘comfortable’, but that chandelier-swinging prick was born into a lengthy ancestry of money—and criminal activity, though you supposed that was irrelevant. It wasn’t really, but it was a four-hour presentation you didn’t want to mentally sit through. Instead, you took in the opulent hotel room with awe and appreciation. White marble tiles spread along the floor, a light gold chandelier adorned with rhinestones dangled over the large dining table. The room was overboard in every possible way, though Chan had brushed it off as “getting into character”. You supposed that it would be more covert to retreat into a hotel equally lavish to the gala the two of you planned to intrude on. That part had almost slipped your mind—the whole criminal part of it. He’d subconsciously experienced the trip as a getaway. It wasn’t a work expense, it was a sumptuous getaway to escape that lifestyle, ignoring the stress of money, drugs, and being tailed by the police. It was freedom—except it wasn’t. It was nothing more than business; everything was just business. Felix, on the other hand, was painfully aware of the situation, in a way that you didn’t know or understand—not yet, at least. The male didn’t hold contempt towards the situation for being ‘just business’, he held contempt for what it should have been. It wasn’t the kind of goodbye he’d wanted to give you, sitting in an over-the-top hotel room preparing for a mission before leaving, for good. He had it all planned out, people who would help him—even Chan knew about the whole plot, for goodness sake, he’d sworn to cover it up as an untimely death. Though, as it drew closer, Felix couldn’t help reject the original plan. It was a solid plan, but it didn’t include you. How could he ever leave without you?

Felix, foolish as it was, didn’t sleep that night. Tossing and turning around in the silky blue sheets, feeling them twist around his bare torso, felt much more comforting than sleeping—despite the fact he would escape from the thoughts he felt tormented by. At one point he’d left the room entirely, standing on the balcony as the cold air pricked at his exposed skin. It was winter, how fitting. He’d watched you lay peacefully in the sheets for a few moments, the steady rising of your chest putting him at ease momentarily, until those thoughts came creeping in again. In all honesty, he hadn’t even planned on telling you—or anyone. He would just slip away into the night, run as if his life depended on it—it did, he supposed. With a sigh, the male slipped back into the warmth of the hotel room, sliding the glass door closed to forbid the frosty air from plaguing the room and ruining your peaceful slumber. Fuck, he really couldn’t leave you behind. The frosty bathroom tiled stung the soles of his feet as he splashed water on his face, patting the freckled skin dry with the lightest touch possible, as if he would break if too much force was used. Felix had never felt so close to the edge — the edge of what, he wasn’t certain yet, but something told him he’d understand soon enough.

The sun was steadily disappearing behind the uneven horizon, and you were taking advantage of the last pungent rays of sunlight to prepare for the gala night—you supposed it was better to be early hours before you had to leave instead of minutes. Plus, Felix had encouraged you to do so and he had far more experience than you. He also had ulterior motives in the form of telling you heavy news and a proposal he prayed you wouldn’t reject. Truthfully, he hadn’t even considered how to approach the topic. Did he just spit it out: “I’m leaving”, or was that too harsh? Why did it even matter? It’s not like he would be around to watch the fall out—that didn’t make it any better, though.

“What time do we leave?” Felix’s thoughts were intruded by your querying voice. His head turned in your direction and, fuck, you looked beautiful.

“Uh- seven. Weren’t you listening to Chan?” The slight teasing edge of his voice prompted a playful smile to stretch across your face as you raised an eyebrow.

“When have I ever listened to Chan?” A deep chuckle vibrated in Felix’s chest as he shook his head gently. Of course you hadn’t, you remained as independent as ever, “besides,” you sigh gently as you move to sit next to him on the unmade bed, “the stuff he says just reminds me of the shitty situation I’m in.”

“What do you mean?” The freckled male raised an eyebrow in question. You laughed bitterly.

“The fact I’m a dimestore criminal and always will be. The only time it will end is when I’m thrown in prison—and I’d still be bloody miserable,” your words hung heavy in the air as Felix chewed on his plush lower lip. Fuck it.

“We could leave, together. You know. Start a new life, be happy.”

A sigh passed your lips, a mix of exasperation and misery, “Felix, you know this isn’t the kind of life you can just run away from.”

“It’s worth a shot, isn’t it? Don’t you want to be free?”

“Living in fear isn’t living freely!” with slumped shoulders, a posture of defeat, the exasperation dissipated from your face, “you should know that by now.”

Mustering up the necessary courage, Felix allowed his deep voice to break through the tense atmosphere, “well—I’m leaving.”

You visibly froze, shoulders rigid and jaw tense as the news simmered in the air. The silence was thick, Felix could feel it melting through his skin and coating his bones, “I’m leaving tomorrow night,” it was the affirmation you didn’t want to hear. The news that, no, this wasn’t some sick joke, this was real fucking life and Felix was leaving you, “I know some people that can help me out, but—” he sighed with hesitance, “I’ll stay if I’m what you choose.”

Felix failed to realise it at the time, but from this distance, painfully aware of the emptiness of the grey grains of sand, Felix knew that the sandy shores were never his idea of paradise. It was the person who sat beside him, enduring the cold weather in a comfortable silence.

It was easier to put on a happy face than either of you had expected. Though, thinking about it, you weren’t sure why you had such little faith in your acting skills—you’d managed to hide your criminal occupation under a law-abiding facade, after all. Felix had briefly run through the plan, meaning he had told you to keep a low profile and follow his lead. You had assumed it was an ordinary job—steal their stash, take out anyone who got in your way, get the fuck out of there. Suffice it to say, you found yourself in awe at the beauty surrounding you. The museum was painted in tones of gold and white, with lush velvet lounges and curtains showcasing the large pristine glass windows. All exhibits were on display, allowing the museum to brag its gorgeous vintage paintings and unique bone collections — you were pretty sure you’d heard Minho brag the same thing, and you were absolutely certain you didn’t let him explain it any further than that. Feeling Felix’s hand brush gently against your arm, you turned your attention to the silver-haired male, suppressing the attraction blooming in your eyes. He looked marvelous. Hair swept back effortlessly with a crisp suit adorning his slim frame. To say he didn’t look intimidating would be a blatant lie, and to act as if you weren’t already immensely attracted to him would be pointless. With an internal reprimand, you raised an eyebrow at Felix, inviting him to proceed with his words.

“Just mingle for a little bit. Go through that door,” he discretely gestured his head towards a set of large dark oak doors, “about ten minutes after I do. Wait in the hall, and if anyone asks, you needed a break from socialising.”

Nodding with understanding, you watched as Felix sent a reassuring smile your way before sauntering across the large room, smiling and greeting other primly dressed men he probably didn’t know. An unpleasant thought plagued your mind, one you desperately wanted to push away from contemplation: as soon as this mission was over and you returned to the base you called home, you would have to watch as he walked away once again, a stride towards freedom. It was something he so desperately craved, you couldn’t bring yourself to take that away from him—no matter how much you wanted to. The sound of the ebony wooden grandfather clock was lost in the sound of absent-minded chatter and fake laughter, yet the hands still moved as each second, minute, passed by. Five minutes had passed. What was Felix doing? Six minutes had passed. Why did you have to wait so long? Seven minutes had passed. Was he in danger? Eight minutes had passed. Would you see him again? Nine minutes had passed. Why didn’t you agree to leave with him? Ten minutes had passed. You were tired of this life. The thought struck you as you clandestinely stride towards the large doors Felix had disappeared behind, pacing a few strides down the hall before leaning against the wall, waiting.

How much time had passed? You weren’t certain, it felt as if time had stopped moving since you leaned against the wallpaper-covered surface. Footsteps alerted you to another’s presence, your head turning in the direction to scope out a potential threat — though your shoulders relaxed as the familiar chocolate eyes of Felix met your own. Fixing your posture, you waited until he was standing beside you, “we happy?”

Felix smiled gently at your Pulp Fiction reference, “yeah, we’re happy. Now let’s get the fuck out of here.”

Placing his hand on the small of your back, he prepared to escort you from the grand location, all the while you pondered why Felix needed a partner when he did everything alone. Though, your questions were answered.

“Not so fast, pal,” you had often feared being murdered by Changbin for not completing a mission, yet for some reason you didn’t fear the potential of being shot in the head by a rival gang.

“Ah, Mr. Hyunsuk, what a pleasure it is,” the freckled male’s response was short yet polite, a false smile stretched upon his face. How did he still look so angelic in the face of death?

“Yongbok,” Felix’s smile faltered, “let’s not pretend. Just return whatever you’ve taken from us and everyone will leave here safely.”

“With all due respect, I believe you’re wrong,” you spoke up — that was your job — “we’ll be keeping our new possessions and leave safely,” to jump in recklessly when things began going sideways. Then, guns were drawn. You can’t recall who drew first, who shot first, but you knew you and Felix had split up to take different vantage points. Peeking from behind the cabinet you crouched behind, you fired a shot towards the muscular bald man shooting in Felix’s direction, who narrowly avoided a bullet between his eyes. How many people had come? You weren’t sure, you weren’t counting. It was pure adrenaline, shooting almost blindly at those who threatened the success of your job. The sound of a gun jamming snapped you out of your daze, forcing you to watch as Felix struggled to identify the problem with his gun. Ah shit, you supposed it was time to do your job. Leaping from behind the bullet-riddled cabinet, you fired towards the moving human targets in rapid succession. One down, two down, a bullet fired into Hyunsuk’s knee, another into his hip. Another gun joined you, Felix’s pistol shooting at the men attempting to pull their boss from the fray.

The pain shot through you before you could process what was happening. It was searing, a deep burning sensation that had you clutching the spot in agony, struggling to stay on your feet. Vaguely, as if rooms away, you heard Felix’s gunfire halt as a thud echoed from the other side of the hall, then you heard footsteps against the polished floor. Rapid, either rushing to help someone or rushing to take their last breath. A pair of arms snaked around your waist and supported your back as you swayed, disoriented.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Felix’s gentle hold on you prevented further stumbling on your behalf. The words couldn’t form upon your lips, your eyes glancing around haphazardly, as if blinking more would help you process the situation you were in. His eyes trailed downwards, widening as he finally noticed the hand haphazardly clutching your abdomen.

“No. No, no, no, no, no,” his speech was rapid, his gravelly voice coming out in a corybantic manner as he struggled to find the right action to take. There was a short period where he struggled, laying you down as he attempted to assess the bloody patch hiding beneath your stained hand. Weakened, you found yourself unable to fight off Felix’s movements as he peeled your hand away delicately, breath quickening at the extent of your wound. If he didn’t get you help in the next minute, he knew you wouldn’t make it, “ah, okay—shit. Just—keep your hand on there, pressure, yeah?”

There was no effort to move on your behalf, thus Felix’s hand found its way pressing atop your bleeding injury. Though, your fingers wrapped around his wrist as you smiled gently towards him, “don’t.”

Confusion laced his eyes, “don’t? Y/N, I’m not going to let you bleed out here. I’m not going to let you die!”

You only nodded slightly, “you are. You have to.”

His eyesight grew blurry, his stomach twisted in knots, the croaks of sobs were climbing up his throat as he mulled over your words. His voice quivered, “b-but, I can’t let you die. I need you.”

There were no words to respond to his statement, just a weak and gentle hand caressing his cheek. He could hear footsteps approaching, but he couldn’t find it in him to look away from you—he didn’t care if it was a fatal mistake or not. A deep breath filled your lungs, a stray tear leaking from your eye and sliding down your temple as you mustered up the strength to breathe out the confession you’d been suppressing for years.

It was gentle, angelic in the other’s ears, the words the both of you wished you’d said earlier, “you’re the one I choose.”

Not every story has a happy ending, but at least they have an ending. Even if it tore the soul from someone and stomped on it, that sense of finality was necessary. Felix had seen a lot of pain in his life, far too much loss, yet the final chapter of a story involving him—your story—had never felt so… wrong. Out of place, missing. It wasn’t the ending he wanted for you, though who was he to change fate? There was nothing Felix could do to go back to that time, to redo anything and everything to fix the ending. All he could do was think of how much he loved and lost in a matter of moments.

Sighing as he watched the waves carry your ashes past the skyline, Felix’s voice broke into the crisp air, “one day, I’ll meet you beyond that silver horizon,” he sniffled slightly as the autumn breeze caressed his face, “I know I will.”

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feverinfeveroutfic · 3 years

Text

chapter two | coffee and paint

"your ears are full of their language, there's wisdom there you're sure, 'til the words start slurring and you can't find the door." -"coffee and tv", blur

The bed had been pressed against the wall opposite from the window, so Sam could wake up in the morning bathed in the sunlight. She crawled underneath the covers and rested her head on the soft pillow. Alone in New York City, but at least she had a new friend in Frank downstairs, though. Her parents would arrive come the morning light, but she nestled her head down in the surface of the pillow and closed her eyes.

She couldn't hardly nudge those two guys out from her mind. Every thought of them turned into one of her parents. She could tell them she met a pair of new friends, but it was nothing special.

She closed her eyes and drifted off within a few seconds.

Sam opened her eyes to find a head full of black and white right in front of her face. She couldn't tell what color his eyes were, but she could make out the sight of his nose and that head of hair despite the shadows around them. Who was he?

His hand caressed over her hip and her thigh, but he never let his hand go any further than that. He said something to her, but she couldn't tell. He brought his lips closer to hers, but he never kissed her there.

Sam raised her gaze to the low ceiling over them.

“Samantha,” he whispered to her; he sounded as though he had become a ghost, even though his body was warm and soft. “Samantha—kiss me—”

She moved her head in closer to his, and he brought a hand to her face.

“Please—kiss me—”

But she was reluctant. This was a man she knew, and yet she didn't know where he came from, or why they were trapped inside the trunk. Or why he was calling her by her full name.

The car came to a halt and he held onto her by the hip.

“What's going on?” she asked him.

“I don't know. I don't—where are we going—” He huddled closer to her.

“Come here,” she begged him and she put her arms around him. His hair was soft. Everything about him was soft to the touch.

“Don't let me go,” he whispered to her. “Please don't let me go—Samantha—”

The white stripe in his otherwise dark hair remained right in front of her nose so she could catch the delicate smell of his cologne. The trunk popped open and she could see into his hazel eyes and his full face just long enough. She turned her head to find they had wound up in a desert somewhere, albeit a desert with a vast span of shallow smooth lakes as far as she could see.

“—bury the two of them,” a disembodied voice before them commanded. Sam and the man next to her were laid out on the desert sand, flat on their backs. His arms extended over his head while his legs were spread straight out before him. She looked down to find they both had been stripped naked.

“Stripped us naked and hid our clothes,” she muttered aloud.

She could feel herself being dragged along the soil to somewhere. The lakes. They were being dragged along and then about to be left in the waters to drown.

She jerked herself awake and she lifted her head. Darkness surrounded her. She was back in her bedroom. Sam rolled over onto her back to ensure she didn't have something stuck in her spine and her shoulder blades. She gazed up at the dark ceiling overhead.

First off, who was that man laying next to her on the sand? And why were they laying next to each other in that trunk? She could hardly shake the look of fear in his dark eyes. And what was going on with his hair, that stripe, that shock of pure white hair right on top of his forehead?

She tried to return to sleep but that man next to her in the trunk kept appearing to her with every close of her eyes. She wanted to know who he was, and why they had been there together.

She opened her eyes again to the darkness once more. Somewhere in her bags was her drawing pad. And somewhere else, she had stashed away her pencils and good pens. On the sleepless nights, she could take that out to draw something for herself and for the nighttime stars.

Sam pushed back the covers and set the soles of her feet on the cold carpet. There was another thing she needed: a clock for her wall, and a lamp next to her bed. There was no way she could draw something, unless she took the drawing pad into the kitchen and drew on the counter.

That was it! Using the ambient light from the streetlights outside, she made her way towards the doorway and she ducked into the front room to fetch that drawing pad. Everything was dark save for a small ray of orange light coming in through the window in front of her.

She could feel the smooth surface of the cardboard backing; next to her was the feeling of a pencil and an ink pen. She touched the tops of those, and then she took them out of their pitch dark hiding spot. Careful not to hit her foot on something, she crept into the kitchen and flicked on the light.

After blinking several times to adjust her eyes to the light, she set the pad on the empty counter and opened to a fresh sheet. His face was round and full, and a little bit pale, too. Then there was that white stripe in his hair. But all she could do at the moment was draw the way she saw him in her dream.

Laying next to her inside of the trunk and right up against her body. The warmth from his body felt so real that she swore he was right there right next to her. The softness of his stomach went with the softness of his face, and she swore that was real, too.

She rubbed her eye and yawned. She figured she would draw the rest of his body come the morning, but for the time being, she needed to rest. She had a big day ahead of her, and within a few hours no less.

Sam switched off the light and stood still in the doorway for a moment to make her eyes adjust to the darkness. And then she shuffled back to her room, and she climbed back into bed.

Drawing helped, as she lay her head back onto her pillow and fell asleep within mere seconds again. That time she had a rather heavy dreamless sleep and awoke to the gray morning light painted across the room. She climbed out of bed yet again and slipped on her bathrobe, and then she realized she had no coffee maker.

She tightened the belt and headed out of her apartment to the hallway. Down the stairs, past Emile’s place, and then down the hall to the very end. She knocked on the panel three times.

Silence.

Then—

“Oh, hey, Sam,” Frank greeted her with a yawn and a big beaming smile. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here this early.”

“Do you have any coffee?” she asked him.

“Any coffee? I do, as a matter of fact... would you like to come in?”

“I might as well...” She stepped into the small studio apartment, a humble little place about half the size of her own, and smelling of fresh laundry. Frank led her into the tiny kitchen on the other side of the room and gestured for her to take a seat at the small table.

One thing that caught her eye was the rack of guitars tucked in the corner of the room to her left.

“How’d you like yours?” he asked her as he dropped in a few scoops of coffee grounds into the maker on the counter.

“I like a bit of cream most of the time,” she said, “but I’ll be happy with straight up black, though.”

“I got some cream, so don’t sweat it,” he promised her as he closed the lid and pressed the button. “Just so long as you don’t want any sugar.”

“Nah, it’s too much at that point,” she replied with a shake of her head.

“I hear ya,” he said as he took a blank white mug out of the cupboard over his head.

“Would you be willing to lend me some sugar, though?” she offered. “You know, if I needed it?”

“Oh, yeah—I’d do the same if I got a bit of sugar from Joey,” he told her with a raise of his coffee cup.

“By the way, I should ask you—what do you guys do?” she asked him.

“Me and Joey?” He knitted his eyebrows together.

“Yeah.”

“We play in a band together.” He gestured to the rack of guitars on the other side of the room.

“What kind of band?”

“Rock n' roll. Kinda harder, though. I don't know what kind of music you like, though.”

“I've got an open mind,” she pointed out. “What do you guys play?”

“I play bass, and he sings.”

“He sings! What’s his voice like?”

“Lovely. I’ll take you into our jam space at some point—you should seriously hear him.”

“Is it really that spectacular?” she teased him.

“Sam, trust me—you hear that man sing, you’re never gonna wanna hear another singer again. He’s one of those rare ones who can sing literally anything and own it.”

“Oh, well, now I’ll be the judge of that then,” she scoffed with a wag of the finger. The coffee maker made a soft beep, and he poured them both cups of coffee. He brought her mug to her, and then he kept on going over to the rack of guitars.

“What’chu thinkin’ ‘bout?” he called back to her.

“Just like—what you're gonna do over there,” was all she could think about. He picked out a big black bass guitar with five silvery strings and held it down below his waist.

“I think—where's my strap?” he wondered aloud.

“The thing to hold it up to your body?” she asked him.

“Yeah... it's black leather with a bit of beading in the center of it. Like, to where it's on my shoulder.”

“Why'd you take it off there?” She couldn't help but show him a little lopsided grin.

“I had to put it on another guitar,” he explained with a smile back to her, “except... I dunno where it went.”

He tucked a lock of his lush black hair and then he looked down behind the rack.

“Oh, there it is,” he proclaimed, and he stooped down to pick out a long strap of black leather out from behind the rack.

“You want some help?” she suggested as she climbed to her feet and headed on over to him.

“Yeah—c'mon over here.”

Sam held onto his bass by the body as he slipped on the strap. On the bottom and then onto the base of the neck. He ducked his head underneath the strap and set it onto his shoulder: the beads in question glimmered under the ambient morning light and the kitchen lights. The bass hung down low by his hips; stray locks of his dark lush hair sprawled down over his shoulder.

“My amp's 'round here somewhere,” he said in a low voice. She glanced about the floor. She had no idea what to look for.

“Oh, there it is—” She turned her head again in time to see him plugging his bass into a small black box on the floor. He stood upright with his left hand on the neck of the bass and his right hand down by the body. She imagined him in full on rock star swag and up on a stage somewhere.

He held his fingers down over the thickest strings and strummed at a slow pace.

“Okay, it's in tune,” he quipped with a grin on his face.

“So what you wanna show me?” she asked him.

“Well, we're working on a new record at the moment,” he started, “but I'm not really supposed to share something from it, though.”

“Why's that?”

“It's this whole confidentiality thing with the record label and also because it's just something you don't really talk about with outsiders, either,” he explained in a single breath. “Add to that—you know, if nothing else—I don't really want to ruin the surprise, either.”

“That makes sense,” she told him with a shake of her head. She doubled back to the kitchen to fetch her cup of coffee, and then she returned to him. He started out down low on the neck and he plucked the strings with his first two fingers. She watched him go slow at first and then he picked it up.

Next thing she knew, he was going quickly. The bass had this rich guttural tone, even for such a small amp there on the floor. She kept her eyes glued onto his plucking as she sipped her coffee, so rich and warm. At one point, she found herself nodding her head along to it. She nodded along to him and she pictured the full band next to him, including Joey at the microphone. She tried to picture him singing out something, but she couldn't.

She needed to hear him for herself.

“Man, you are just a beast,” she proclaimed to him. Frank set his right hand on the strings to stop them in their tracks.

“What's that?”

“You're amazing!” she said as she held the cup down to her chest.

“Aw, shucks, well, I try my best,” he replied with a shrug of his shoulders and a shy little grin.

“I want to paint something,” she declared. “I want to paint something while you're playing.”

“Like—paint a portrait of me?” He gave his black hair a toss back from his neck and held his hand next to his face as if striking a pose.

“Yes!” she said. “Yes, yes, yes, yes! And I want to do it while you're playing.”

Frank knitted his eyebrows together at the suggestion, and then he realized what she meant by that as the grin returned to his handsome face.

“What say you take me to your humble abode so we can do that?” he suggested. Sam guided him out of the apartment and down the corridor to the stairwell; at one point, she peered over her shoulder to find him right behind her with his bass slung around onto his back and his carrying his amp in one hand.

“Want me to get that for you?” she offered with a reach of her hand to his amp.

“Oh, that's kind of you, but I've got it, though,” he assured her. They ascended the stairs and reached her apartment.

Frank set down his amp right in the middle of the floor and plugged in his bass right then and there. Sam knelt down to bring her paint brushes out of their hiding place in her luggage; she set her cup of coffee on the floor, right at the base of the wall.

“Where's my pad...” she muttered. And then she remembered that she had left it in the kitchen. She stood to her feet and made her way in there. Indeed, she had left the drawing pad sprawled open on the counter top. It was early in the morning when she made that one drawing of that man from her dream. He appeared as nothing more than a floating head with a detached neck and a faint body. The stripe on his head appeared in the form of a void.

Maybe another time. She picked up the pad and turned to a clean sheet for her paints. It wasn't the best type of paper for watercolor painting but she knew she could do it with what little she had in her bags. She had a little container in one pocket to hold the water.

Frank plugged the amp into the outlet in the far wall. He didn't hesitate to begin playing for her once she took her seat on the floor in a cross legged position. Every so often, she lifted her gaze from the pad over to him in the middle of the room.

It wasn't a lifelike painting, but it was something to paint his long lanky legs and his slim body, the latter of which was tucked behind that bass guitar. She wished to make those beads on his shoulder extra sparkly and bright with the paints, but it was all she had at the moment. She gave his dark hair some splashes of crimson red, vermilion, and bright yellow to mimic the morning sunlight shining through the window and onto him.

She surrounded his body with red, violet, and a little bit of blue. His playing resembled to a swirling wave, one that rose and fell with the colors of the wind and the daylight filtering through the window. She knew she wasn't in California anymore when she realized that the gray surrounding the sun was there to stay. Some more warm colors to go in junction with the incoming snow.

Sam was about to sign her initials, S.R.S., for Samantha Rose Shelley, at the bottom left corner of the painting with the thin brush when a knock on the door stopped them both in their tracks. Frank set his fingers on the fret board to silence the strings.

“Wonder who that could be,” he declared in a soft voice.

“Hope it's not Emile being all like 'keep it down!'” said Sam as the butterflies rose up in her stomach. She stood to her feet and, once she shook her right foot about to get the blood flowing again, she made her way over to the front door, where she was met with a pair of familiar people there before her. The man had a rather large cowlick near the center of his forehead, while the woman had a short bob salt and pepper hair which went rather nicely with her cat eye glasses.

“Mom! Dad!” Sam greeted them with a smile on her face.

“Hi, sweetie!” Esmé Shelley greeted her with an embrace around her.

“I wasn't expecting to see you here for at least another few hours,” she confessed as she let her go to give Ruben a hug hello.

“We got on the red eye,” he told her. “It was either that or wait another day because of the snow coming in...” His voice trailed off as he brought his attention to Frank.

“Oh, hello,” Esmé said to him.

“Hi,” he returned the favor with an awkward smile. “I wasn't expecting her to have company.”

“Oh, Frank,” Sam piped up; she still had her arm around Ruben, “—this is my dad Ruben and my mom Esmé. Mom, Dad, this is Frank—he lives downstairs and he helped me pick out a bed yesterday.”

“Wow,” Esmé remarked with a raise of her eyebrows.

“Nice set up you got there,” Ruben complimented him with a nod of his head.

“Thank you!”

“He's a professional,” she continued.

“Yeah, I'm—in a band,” he answered with a shrug and an unplugging of his amp. “We're putting out a record soon.”

“Hard working fellow,” said Esmé as she adjusted her glasses.

“Yeah, we—we pay our dues here in New York City...” He slung his bass over his head and shoulders, and then he ran his fingers through his dark hair.

“On the way over here, we found a little cafe and we were thinking of taking you out to breakfast,” Ruben told Sam.

“And then we'll help out with everything,” Esmé followed up as she put her arm around her daughter.

“Okay! Frank and I had coffee just a little bit ago—” She noticed the mug down on the floor and she realized she had barely touched her coffee. “—mine's gone cold, though.”

“Don't worry about the mug, Sam,” Frank assured her.

“You sure?”

“Positive. Really, take your time with it. Put some ice in there and enjoy the flavors of New York.”

“We parked down the block,” Ruben told her; he slipped his hand into his coat pocket to search for his car key, “so I'll be right back.” He then turned to Frank, who had slung his bass around onto his back and carried his amp with both hands. “Do you need any help, son?”

“Oh, no, thanks, sir—I live right downstairs.”

“I tried offering him some help and he told me the same thing,” Sam recalled.

“Hard working fellow,” Ruben echoed Esmé; the former began back down the stairs, while the latter stepped into the apartment.

“I never really got a good look of this place,” she started with her hands tucked into her coat pockets. “I remember seeing it online but that was about it...”

Sam gestured Frank to come closer to her.

“I wanna thank you, Frankie,” she said in a hushed voice, excited.

“And I wanna thank you, too, Sam I am,” he returned the favor. He then cleared his throat and peered behind him to make sure they were alone. “By the way...” He cleared his throat.

“... I’m just curious, but is there a dude in your life at all?”

She shook her head, and then she squinted her eyes at him.

“Why... you wanna introduce me to your band mates?” she teased him.

“Yeah! You're a cool chick, Sam. I wanna especially introduce you to our drummer Charlie, who's also my uncle.”

“He's your uncle, really?”

“Technically, yeah. We're only three years apart, though, but yeah: my mom is his older sister. He's an artist, too, and he's been one his whole entire life. He'll like you, I'm sure of it.” He flashed her a wink and without another word, he began back down the stairs after Ruben.

Sam watched him descend the stairs and she knew that it was only the beginning from there.

#fanfic #fanfiction #chapter 2 #also on ao3 #frank bello #long reads #anthrax #anthrax fanfic #chapter two #fever in fever out #fever in fever out fanfic #text

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kaen-ace-of-diamonds · 4 years

Text

Winning Pair

Word Count: 1,800+ (oneshot) [AO3]

Genre: Romance/Fluff

Characters/Pairing: Nara Shikamaru/Temari

Summary: Shikamaru has come to a decision. The only part left is how to make it memorable for the love of his life.

Written for the Leaves in the Wind ShikaTema zine.

~0~

Shikamaru was grateful to his teammates for many things. But Ino and Choji realizing from the few times they’d noticed him and Temari together that they were seeing each other, keeping track of when Temari was going to be hanging around Konoha, and casually informing Shikamaru so he could make time to meet her there...Well. That was a quiet but special mark of the bond they shared.

And here he’d been, under the impression that they had been real subtle about their relationships, too. Neither were big on flashy displays of affection, but he figured that there was nothing he could hide from his oldest friends. He would have to find some way to actually acknowledge that and thank them for it, especially after this, because a week prior to today, they had informed him that Temari would be staying in Konoha for a couple days. For some diplomatic task or another on her brother’s behalf; Shikamaru hadn’t really cared much for those details.

What was important to him was that he’d gotten plenty of time to plan in advance the move he wanted to make. Always a nice thing, in both shogi and life. Most of his free time this week had been spent alone in silence planning, eyes closed and fingers interlaced. Or sitting with his father, over tea or dinner or game, discussing the matter. He had considered going to all of his friends about it. After all, they would end up becoming involved one way or another (Ino and Choji certainly already knew of, or at least suspected, his intentions), and some of them were already knowledgeable, even successful, in the art of courting. But no: Nara men did it differently. He and Temari did it differently.

So, Shikamaru waited. He planned. He fine-tuned the details, like an artisan filing out the tiniest parts of an intricate wooden design. Such as the cube puzzle in his hands right now, that he was fiddling with as he sat at the back of his home to wait. He glanced upward every so often to watch the sun, and to track its progressing arc across the sky.

This was good. Clear sky, barely a single cloud out there. Bright light and visibility. Only the slightest of breezes out to disturb the air, barely even strong enough to ruffle his hair. He would never have called himself the sort of man who had real refined taste or appreciation for great beauty; he supposed he was just like his father in that way. But even so, he couldn’t help but think that he couldn’t have made a more perfect day if he had made a damn checklist for it. He’d made backup plans, of course, in case of rain or lightning, but he was glad he didn’t have to rely on them. This fit better with the scene in his head.

His girl was always the strict and professional sort on the job, and so she was perfectly on time today. Right when the sun moved a little past the highest point of its arc, he looked up and all of a sudden there was Temari’s silhouette up in front of him. The pale rays of light glinted off her bared-teeth grin.

“Hey there, handsome. Have you really been sitting around here with that thing all day?”

Shikamaru set the puzzle box aside on the planks next to him. “Waiting around, yeah. How’d your meeting go?”

Temari waved her hand dismissively. “Just fine, same as always. I’m more interested in you.”

“Yeah, I’ll bet,” he said, giving her a wolfish smirk, and received a half-hearted whap on the head with a closed fan for his trouble.

“Not like that, smartass. Your friend Akimichi told me you wanted me to stop by because you wanted to spend quality time with me. Were those your words or his? Him I expect that kind of sappy stuff from, but you? Hell no.”

He nearly had to bite his tongue to keep from giving away his whole game with a quick and snarky, Oh, really? Temari was sharp, and she was better than any girl he’s ever met, up to and including both Ino and his own mother, at figuring out when he was up to something. Sappy stuff...Even she really had no clue what she was in for.

“Choji’s words,” he answered, standing up to look her directly in the eyes, the color of the sea in storm. He wondered if she could truly appreciate that the way he does, being from the desert and all. “I did have some plans in mind though, if you’re up for it...”

He stepped back and raised his hand in a non-hostile challenge stance. “How about a little sparring match? Since the courtyard’s all empty and there’s nobody here to bother.”

Temari tilted her head to the side, hand on her hip. She was trying to give him a skeptical look, but he could tell that she was trying not to laugh. “Really? That’s what you wanted me out here for? Some extra training?”

His smirk broadened. Exactly how he had predicted she would react. His next scripted line really would fit in perfectly. “So how about we make it a little more interesting than that?”

“Oh, yeah? What did you have in mind?”

“Let’s say...” He pretended to think about it for a moment. “Let’s say that if you win, I’ll give you a grand prize.”

“A grand prize, huh?” Temari snickered. “You’ve already got something in mind, don’t you?”

Yeah, nothing gets past you, hon.

“Maybe. You’ve got to win to find out, don’t you?”

“I guess I do. I’ll go easy on your house, if only for your parents’ sake, but don’t expect me to do the same for you, Shikamaru. Got it?”

He almost laughed. “I never would.”

Before the words were even out of his mouth, Temari was flying at him, the winds picking up a bit in the space around them. It wasn’t exactly his speed that Shikamaru prided himself on, but like any shinobi worth his salt, he was more than fast enough to dodge both her kicks and the strikes of her half-closed fan. When they would spar, their flashier or more destructive techniques were left to the spacier areas of Konoha, the training forests and the extensive wilderness inside the village borders, where a fallen tree or a few flying branches were of relatively little concern.

(And there was that sole, memorable occasion where he had been the one to travel to Sunagakure and had to very quickly get used to walking and navigating on an endless field of shifting sand. He’d stomach the idea of moving out there if it was what Temari wanted, but all the same he certainly hoped it wasn’t.)

Here in the tiny, grassy arena of his courtyard, taijutsu was their default style of choice. It didn’t get Shikamaru’s blood pumping the way another kind of fight could, but then again, that had never been something he looked for. This way, he could truly appreciate the way his quick, short, and decisive movements clashed with Temari’s slower but stronger sweeping strikes, studying the minutiae between their styles in order to augment his existing tactics and let new ones form. Even better — he had been significantly surprised to realize that this came higher in his priorities — when they were this close to one another, he could take the split-seconds of calm to drink in every last part of his beloved.

He’d respected her strength first and foremost, when they had been children and she had been just an obstacle to his primary goal of finding someplace to sleep through the rest of the Chuunin Exams. Her smarts, always gleaming in those sharp eyes of hers, had come shortly after. A clever girl who could handle herself in battle and carry on a decent conversation after? Not the rarest gift, but still the most precious one.

Not that he’d ever tell her so (he knew that even a genius couldn’t make it sound like a compliment), but he had noticed her beauty last. No...That didn’t sound right. He had always known that Temari was beautiful. More accurate was the sentiment that he had taken years to realize just how deeply her beauty struck his heart.

There were her arms slinging around his shoulders or hugging his waist tightly from behind, never so lightly that he couldn’t feel the strength of her muscles. Her lips, so surprisingly gentle as they pressed against his own, or laid soft lines up his neck, when they were entwined together in bed. Her smile, which made something swell in his chest every time he saw it. It calmed him when his nerves were frayed, excited him when he was cold and flat, lifted him back up out of the deep waters of grief. It — she — was the most radiant thing he had ever seen.

Even the sharp shock of her flesh on his, the muffled clang of thin mail, was more gratifying than it had ever been with any other person. What was that old saying that Naruto was so fond of? About how true warriors could understand each other’s feelings through the wordless exchange of blows? They weren’t trying to hurt each other, far from it. They were only becoming closer to one another.

So Shikamaru didn’t mind at all when one blindingly fast round sweep from Temari’s fan caught him in the backs of the knees, and sent him pitching backwards to the grass. He landed with a thump on his back, and there was only a short beat of silence and spinning blue sky above him before Temari was standing there instead. She planted a foot lightly on his chest and tipped his chin up with the end of her fan. Her smile was triumphant this time, and his heart skipped a beat.

“Looks like I won, then. So what’s this grand prize I’ve earned?”

Shikamaru smirked, and gestured to himself.

“How about this hand?” he said, and Temari tilted her head to the side, puzzled.

“What? I’m not about to cut off your h —“ She blinked, a spark of realization in her eyes, and then burst out laughing. “You absolute sap! You don’t mean hand in marriage, do you?”

“Yeah, and if I did? Is that a prize you’re interested in?”

“You know, I’d say you’re giving yourself too much credit, but...I can’t seem to do that.”

Temari stepped back, then reached down to pull Shikamaru up from the ground and into a quick but deep kiss.

“Tell me, though,” she purred, her face still so close to his own. “Did you just let me win as part of a proposal setup?”

Shikamaru hummed noncommittally. “Did it seem that way to you?”

Temari snickered. “A kunoichi’s pride is nothing to toy with, Nara Shikamaru. Tell you what: you give me a rematch, with nothing on the line this time, and you’ll have yourself a fiancée.”

Shikamaru grinned. His girl’s fire was as strong as ever. “Deal.”

#shikatema #nara shikamaru #temari #naruto temari #naruto #kaen's fics

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moonlightstars16 · 4 years

Text

Love Unexpected

30 Days Connverse Challenge: Chadverse Style!

Day 15 ~ Family Visits

In celebration of making it halfway, today's prompt will include Chadverse!

Connie laid upon the warm sand. The soft texture of her beach towel that layered between her and the coarse dust from it all. This week she was on a trip back to her and her husband's home city for a visit. It was to celebrate and in honor of there first summer together as a married couple. However things didn't go as planned since she felt a bit under the weather during the entire road trip. But she insisted she didn't need his healing abilities on account of there agreement. Emergencies only.

As they arrived back in the old beach house, she had felt even worse. Embarrassingly so since she had rushed behind a bolder to throw-up the bile that was rising in her throat. Afterwords she immediately felt 'better' and was capable of carrying her large suitcase's. However Steven wasn't so thrilled with the idea and carried it himself using his gem powers. Walking up the stairs they were bombarded with hugs and talks about how they missed each other and all.

Once upstairs to his old room, Greg crashing on the couch, Steven implied that she should stay and rest for awhile. Continuing to insist she was fine, he complied and let the matter slide for now. Her parents arrived soon after as they gathered around the dinner table. Herself hardly eating anything with looks from her mom.

Afterwords during them playing board games, she took her daughter aside and asked what was wrong. Begrudgingly telling her about how she had been feeling for the past two months. Followed up by her mom urging her to meet her tomorrow at the hospital to check up on things. Obviously acting upon a mother's intuition.

One Connie will soon be having.

With a hand over her stomach, she smiled when her mom's co-worker informed her of the pregnancy. Her heart pounded in excitement as the shock left her speechless. She had talked about having kids with Steven. But they didn't realize how soon that was to come. Emotions of joy and uncertainty mixed together. Her mom was overjoyed with the news of becoming a grandparent.

Everything seemed right and wrong all at once. Was she ready to have this baby? Was she ready to be a mom? Steven obviously was ready to be a dad, even with everything he was working on. A smile appeared on her lips at the mere thought of it all. However she wasn't even sure how to tell him exactly. Before she had ideas of doing something elaborate and special for the news. Now that the time had come, she felt unprepared and shook about what to do.

That's why she was out on the beach. To think about things calmly and not put her health or the baby's safety at risk. It was only two days before her next visit to see if the child would live on full term. From what she understood everything pointed to a positive yes. However that small percentage made her feel uneasy. So she was going to try and stay peaceful as much as she could.

Watching the sun set she smiled and felt the warm rays upon her skin. Closing her eyes and enjoying the comforting feeling of being surrounded by light rays. It almost felt like this light was telling her it would be okay. As if nothing could go wrong and that she was safe. The image of her man appeared in her thoughts. Watching him with his strong arms holding there small child. Swaying back and forth gently as he sang a soft lullaby. His smile wide and eyes full of adoration upon the small baby in his arms. Wrapped up in a blanket and secure in her/her father's embrace.

A few tears of happiness spilled over her cheeks as she slowly sat up with a resolve to tell him right then and there. He needed to know. Standing up she glanced at her phone, saying they had another hour before the gems, Greg and her parents would be back from there busy jobs. Walking towards the door she was quick, yet careful, full of excitement. Until through the window her heart dropped.

"Why did you heal her?!" Thorn shouted gripping Ember's shirt and pulling his face closer to his own.

"It's not what she wanted." Ember's monotone expression and dead pan tone made Thorn yell even louder.

"She is in pain! We need to help her!" Connie winced a bit as she stood there on the other side of the glass door, hearing everything in sight.

"SHE. SAID. NO!" Ember's sudden burst of anger rang out and almost broke the glass. Connie cried out as her hands covered her ears. Eyes shut as she focused on her breathing. One hand gripping her stomach slightly when the aftershock wave was done.

"Do you want to see her in pain?!"

"No, but she has her limits and boundaries which we must respect too. Just like she did with us."

"But she knew when to reach out and call us on our BS!" Standing up, her entire body shaking slightly, Connie leaned against the door frame. Tears pouring over her face as guilt set in. Probably ten percent was because of hormones though. They were fighting because of her. Steven split because it was her fault. "Ember we have to look out for her best interest!"

"We could end up pushing her away."

"I KNOW THAT!"

"Stop!" The door busted open with a slam so loud it caught both of their attentions. Both immediately turning there gazes to their beloved, leaning in against the door frame with tears pouring, mouth over her hand with the other on her stomach. They were instantly at her side(s), leading her to the bay window where she gestured to be. All three sitting with her in the middle. Her hand raised up to tell them to be silent as she focused on calming down. Eyes closed as Thorn rubbed her back and Ember held her hand. For a few minutes all was quiet.

"I'm so sorry..."

"What?"

"I-I didn't mean t-to make you both s-split up...." Her voice cracked with emotion as they embraced her gently. Her hand still on her stomach.

"No Connie, it's not like that. We were just worried is all."

"I heard you Thorn. I know that I shouldn't be so independent like I was before. I realize there are times I do this a lot. You both were only looking after my health. I appreciate that so much... Please forgive me for making you so upset."

"Connie you can never upset any of us." Ember kissed her temple to prove that while each of them held her closer. "We shouldn't have acted this way. We do respect what you want and we support your choices."

"We love you so much." Connie laughed with a smile, it was rare hearing it from Ember. But nice all the same.

"And I love you all too." Taking a deep breathe she sighed and looked at both of them before glancing down at her stomach. "Right now... I just need to be calm. I need to be calm and at peace for the next few days. Because...." She closed her eyes and furrowed her brow. This was now or never. "Because I'm-"

"Pregnant" Both Connie and Thorn looked up at Ember in shock. Thorn switching is gaze from the two people before him in confusion.

"How did you know?"

"Body trembling and needing to sit. Not yelling at us right away." He then placed a hand over hers were her stomach was. "Never moved from the position."

"I-..." She looked ahead, shaking away the confusion before laughing and pressing a hand to her forehead. "Well look whose been observant."

"What so you're really pregnant?!" Thorn spoke with a smile she had never seen before. It was so beautiful to see.

"Yeah...I found out this morning thanks to my mom's intuition from the night before... But-"

"What 'but'? There shouldn't be any 'but'. Why the 'but'?

"They said I'm ninety-nine percent good for having this baby full term. However there is a small chance that if I'm not careful... I-...I could-" She couldn't even finish as both hugged her close once more. Thorn and Ember's hands on her stomach along with her own. A bright light emerged as she felt Steven holding her in his embrace. Feeling surrounded in his protection. In fact he had formed a bubble around them both.

"I won't let this happen. I promise to not split up like I did and argue with myself. You have my full undivided attention." He whispered, kissing her lips, neck, cheek and then bending over to kiss her stomach. Connie giggled and nodded Wrapping her arms around his neck and resting her head on his chest. Feeling his calm, beating heart.

"I know.... but when did the split happen?"

"Well since you left for your-...well appointment." Glaring playfully at her as she sunk into his embrace with a blush and a guilty smile. "I slept in and well that's when my thoughts became clouded. Then there was two of me."

"You've been like this all day? Ugh Steven" reaching up she stroked his cheek before pecking his lips with her own. Letting it linger than normal before pulling away. "What am I going to do with you?"

"Allow me to carry you everywhere from now on."

"Steven isn't that a bit-" She stopped with a sly smirk. The idea didn't sound too bad actually. "You know what? I wouldn't mind that at all. In fact would you massage my shoulders too while you're at it? Please?" Without hesitation he lifted her upstairs and placed her on the bed. Sliding behind her to do as she requested.

"As you wish"

"What's with the random 'Princess Bride' reference?" She giggled as he leaned in closer.

"Because you know what it means." Turning slightly to gaze into his eyes she whispered back.

"I love you too."

Leaning into his touch, he continued to massage her neck, humming softly to her as she closed her eyes and dreamed. Feeling elated and wonderful, from being with her beloved to having their child together. After awhile he stopped upon hearing the rest of the family. Connie sighed and looked at the stairs, the noise traveling upward from all the commotion.

"Should I tell them to be quiet?"

"No, well yes but let's surprise them tomorrow with the news. For now, I want to keep this a secret between us."

"But your mom knows."

"Yeah but she's on another level. Besides I told her to keep this secret until we know one hundred percent that-...you know..." He kissed her once more against her temple, holding her gently.

"Our child will survive. I promise just like I promise to keep this secret." With a smile he chuckled. "And that gives us enough time to come up with a surprise. What time do you go in?"

"Earlier than today."

"Good. I'll be by your side the entire time. We'll tell my family that it was just a follow-up appointment from today just to be sure."

"Ah so going with the half-truth for now." She smirked with a wink. Making them both burst into fits of laughter.

Later that evening after another family night together, this time with a movie(which made keeping the secret much easier), Connie sat up from the bed, wrapped her blanket around her soft nightgown and stepped outside on the balcony. The moon rose high above as the light illuminated and mirrored the warmth she felt earlier. Leaning against the railing, the wind's cool breeze making her cool from the warm summer temperatures. A familiar touch around her waist and a firm body held her close.

"Couldn't sleep?"

"I just have so much to think about...."

"This baby will happen, I promise."

"I know....I hope too. But then I thought what if it does? Will I be a good mom?"

"Strawberry, you'll be a great mom."

"What if I make mistakes Biscuit?"

"You won't do all the things my mom did. I know that for sure." Looking up she brushed away a fallen tear from his cheek. Slipping her arms around his torso.

"Shhh" She cooed gently. "I'm sorry... If anything I promise to do all I can to be the best mom I can be."

"I know you will...." He sighed and looked into her eyes, full of adoration like she imagined earlier. "I am so blessed to have you in my life. When I began to care about you beyond just a friend... I dreamed of you so much. I can't believe it's finally happening..." Connie's eyes brimmed with tears as he spoke every word. Then as if on cue, they heard a melody echoing in the wind. Growing louder and louder until that was l they heard. His voice flowing into words.

I have dreamed that your arms are lovely I have dreamed what a joy you'll be I have dreamed every word you whisper

When you're close, close to me How you look in the glow of evening I have dreamed and enjoyed the view

In these dreams, I've loved you so That by now I think, I know What it's like to be loved by you I will love being loved by you

His heavenly voice compelled (in his opinion) her angelic voice to reply. To which she did without hesitation.

Alone and awake, I've looked at the stars The same that smile on you And time and again, I've thought all the things That you were thinking too

I have dreamed that your arms are lovely I have dreamed what a joy you'll be I have dreamed every word you whisper

When you're close, close to me How you look in the glow of evening I have dreamed and enjoyed the view

He joined into there harmonious melody, turning her around so she was facing him. Enveloping herself in his protective and loving embrace. Echoing her words before melding them together.

In these dreams I've loved you so (I these dreams I loved you so) That by now I think I know (That I know)

What it's like to be loved by you. I will love being loved by you.

Leaning in closer and closer as their song came to a close, their lips touched in a loving kiss. An intense, yet gentle, passion flowed through them just like there love for one another. Both hands upon her stomach. Sensing the love of there child between there beating hearts. Growing with each passing second.

#30 days connverse challenge #30 day connverse challenge #30 day writing challenge #connverse #connie maheswaran #stevenxconnie #steven and connie #steven universe #steven universe future #day 15 #chadverse

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thiswasinevitableid · 4 years

Note

21, Indruck (for the Mermay minifics)

Note: Duck’s design is based on a Grouper (aka one of the strongest fish) and Indrid’s is based on an Oarfish.

Every mer in Kepler Cove knows not to go near the strange lights. Lights that glow bright orange or deep purple, flicker gold to green or fade from blue to silver. But Duck is desperate.

And so when night falls, and all sensible creatures are safe in their beds or dens or buried beneath the sand, he swims across the flat, empty patch of sand to the cave on the outskirts of town, green lights guiding his way tonight.

The house is cluttered with bottles and shells, with drawings and discarded pufferfish quills, and all around him the lights swirl. They’re solid when they bump him, but when he holds one in his hand, it isn’t an object his eyes understand.

It’s when he looks up to find two red lights, glowing more dimly than the others, staring him down that he remembers the warnings.

“Uh-”

“I am surprised to see you, Duck Newton. In most future, you decided on the prudent option and stayed far away.” The mer comes into view, his silvery tail, streaked with a red fin, matching his silver hair. The tail is much longer than Duck’s own, even though it ends in a standard fin. And he’s grinning. It’s not a Great White grin, but it doesn’t put Duck at ease.

“You gonna make me regret it? And how do you know-”

‘Your name” The mer says along with him, “I can see the future. Or futures, I suppose, churning and changing, flitting in and out of view like sardines in a school.” He circles Duck slowly, his form long and lean next to Duck’s, which is built for power and unassuming in it’s mottled green, black and white. He remembers the stories of sea serpents, of mers with strange tails and angular faces who would lure the unsuspecting out into the deep trenches, never to be seen again.

“Then you know-”

“-why you are here? I can see it coming, but perhaps you would like to tell me yourself.”

“Do you know what’s been happenin to folks around here?”

“The plague? Yes. I...I tried to warn your predecessor that such a thing might come on the tides. He chose not to listen. And now you are here, a new chosen guardian, forced to bear the results of his disregarding me.”

“There ain’t any record of you tellin him that.” Duck says cautiously.

“Is there mention of someone called Indrid Cold?”

“Yeah, now that you mention it.”

The mer points to himself without another word, then swims to his wall and removes several drawings, the images evaporating as he does.

“Oh. Uh, didn’t know that’s your name.”

“Of course not. Everyone calls me the witch. Or worse. And only the desperate would seek out a monster mer, and I watched the futures as you narrowed your options little by little until deciding on me. This spell” he catches a smaller light in his hand, “will produce a special plant that when ingested will cure those who are ill. But it will cost you.”

“Ah. You’re that kind of mer.” Duck crosses his arms with a roll of the eyes.

Indrid whirls, knocking lights aside as he hisses, “No, I am not. This is how magic of this caliber works. It cannot be given for nothing, no matter how much I wish I could do just that. I do not desire anything from my fellow creatures other than peace and respect, and yet I must demand a great deal to deliver what they ask of me. The choice is yours, Duck Newton; seek my help or do not, but do not act as though I am some predator laying in wait in the dark.” He flicks his tail dismissively, goes back to what must be his desk, fin tense as he waits for Duck to respond.

Duck looks at the spell, “What’s the price?”

“Ask it.” Indrid sighs, jerking his tail towards the spell.

Duck gazes at the light, repeats the question, and gets a flash of two luminous red pearls.

“Ah fuck, those only turn up in the oysters near the damn Nettle Eels.”

“Unfortunate.” Indrid continues drawing, back resolutely towards him, “if you decide to attempt it, bring the asked for items here. Only then can you release the spell.” His fin is limp now, his shoulders sag.

“I’ll do my best. And, uh, Mr. Cold?”

“Indrid is fine.”

“I believe you. About it not bein’ your doin’.”

With that, he swims back to town. But as he glances over his shoulder, still not certain if Indrid is dangerous, the other man is watching him. When he notices Duck has turned to look at him, he lifts his hand in shy wave farewell.

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

“You still got that spell?”

Indrid turns, knowing what he’ll see yet smiling all the same when he does; Duck Newton, arms clearly stinging, with two red pearls in his hands. He retrieves the spell, takes the stones and places them with other items the magic has demanded. As soon as Duck touches the spell, the light bursts into a thousand little specks.

“It is done. The grove of plants should be ready by the time you return to your home.”

“Thank fuck.” Duck slumps against the wall. Then he holds out his hand.

Indrid cocks his head, perplexed. Duck makes an awkward sound in the back of his throat, hand returning to his side.

“I just, uh, wanted to say thanks. For helpin’ me. Lotta people are gonna be alive because of you.”

“More would be if I had convinced your predecessor of the severity of the plague.”

“Hey now” Duck swims closer, and Indrid finds he has no instinct to back away, “he was a dipshit. Don’t gotta take the blame for that.” He holds out his hand again, and this time Indrid takes it, shaking it. Duck smiles when he does.

As the other man swims towards the exit, he pauses, “There was another spell, wasn’t there? One that woulda cured it without the plant step.”

Indrid swallows, “Yes.”

“What was the price?”

‘I believe it requires a stone from the valley surrounded by the mer-eating eels. The one, ah, almost no one returns from.”

“That’s what I thought. Thanks, Indrid. Thanks for lookin out for me.”

Indrid wishes he could curl his tail all the way around him so he no longer has to deal with the sensation of Duck looking at him with unfamiliar kindness.

“You are welcome. If you ever need my assistance, you know where to find me.”

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

“Damn thing bit straight through my sword. Minerva’s too.”

Indrid examines the snapped metal, then begins swimming between the lights, “Do you think an increased offensive capability or a defensive one will be better for ridding the reef of the Giant Scorpionfish?”

“Ain’t sure, futures don’t happen to have any clues?”

Indrid pauses, tail waving lazily, then shakes his head, “it seems the two show about the same outcomes of success.”

“In that case, let’s go with somethin’ that’ll keep us safe while fightin it. Don’t really feel like havin some super-powerful weapon floatin around after this is done.”

Indrid picks a golden light from the air, hands it to Duck. This time, he doesn’t immediately move away, instead waits for him to learn the price.

Duck shuts his eyes, gets an image of deep blue eggs. Then he shivers, Indrid’s tail having brushed along his by accident.

“Eagle Ray eggs. Do you think it wants all of ‘em? Seems kinda rude to take the whole nest.”

“Hmmmm, looking at the futures, it seems two or three will suffice.”

“Gotcha. It may think that’s some tricky quest, but I happen to know where a lot of different nests are around here. I’ll be back in an hour.”

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

“Got your message, you said a tidal storm was comin?”

“Yes, we have about five hours at maximum before it hits here. I already found the protection spell and learned the price, to expedite things. It wants a black pearl, a rare red sea flower, and gold from a sunken ship.” Indrid swims back and forth between drawings, erasing and recreating as the futures change.

“Fuck, okay. Uh, I’m allowed to have help, right?’

“Of course.”

“I’ll send Juno after the flower, Dani and Aubrey can help her. And Ned’s real good at findin gemstones in a hurry. I know there’s a wreck about a two mile swim thataway, but it’s been picked over.”

“I may be able to help; we can use my powers to locate the stray, remaining gold. Come, there is no time to lose.” He darts out of the cave and Duck follows him, watches the light glint off his scales, the way his body twists and speeds through the water.

Even if they fail, at least his last mission will have had a hell of a view.

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

“‘Drid, I was wonderin if you...uh, didn’t know you had pets.”

“I do not. Or, ah, I did not, The Eagle Ray eggs hatched. The spells almost never want animals, so it never occurred to me that the eggs would remain viable--AH! Careful with that, I know you are getting used to your wings but those are fragile. Anyway, what do you need?”

“Not a spell, but could you use your future vision to see if the issues with the Kelp fields are gonna lead to somethin bigger?’

“Why Duck, are you really giving me the honor of being an advisor to a Chosen?”

“ Damn right I am. Also that ray is chewin on your desk chair.”

“AH!”

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

“Hey ‘Drid, can I uh, um, I need some help.”

“Of course, let me just finish feeding Spot and Speckle their dinner. Is it a spell or a future?”

“Uh, it’s, uh, fuck, a, uh, spell? Yeah, a uh, fuck, spell. I need some help findin my, uh, fuck, keys? No, fuck, I mean-”

“You don’t have a reason for coming, do you.”

“Nope.”

“There is no need to lie about one. Wanting to visit is reason enough. You are welcome here any time, my friend.”

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

“Nice, ain’t it?” Duck stretches out on the warm rock, sun soaking into his chest.

“Mmmmmhmmm.” Indrid hums beside him, long tail draped off the edge and into the water.

“You said you don’t come up here much.”

“I had some run-ins with sailors I tried to warn off oncoming disasters. I became a bit of a local legend, an omen of doom, and so decided it was best to lay low.” The words are detached, but Duck rolls over to find Indrid staring wistfully up at the sky, “I do enjoy it up here. I like watching the stars, seeing all the snippets of a new and different world. Some days I think I love the surface as much as I love home. Perhaps that is silly.”

Duck rolls onto his side, “Ain’t nothin silly about lovin’ somethin’ incredible. I mean look” he points the forest, the tangle of green looking down on the shore from the hills, “look at that. How does it grow? What lives there? There’s so much to know about nature, up top and below.”

Indrid is on his side now as well, “Thank you. It is nice to know I am not alone. In, ah, in my thoughts, that is.”

Duck reaches for his hand, and when Indrid scoots close enough to give it, Duck presses their tails together. Indrid sighs at the contact, and soon his tail is draped over Duck’s, his fingers tracing abstract patterns up and down Duck’s arm.

“‘Drid? Would, uh, would you ever wanna maybe...move closer to town? I know Barclay’s been visitin more, Dani too. Seems like you’re startin to know more folks in town. There’s, uh, a house near mine that just opened up. We could be neighbors?” The note when his voice turns up at the end is steeped in vulnerable hope that he prays Indrid can’t hear.

Red eyes regard him, “No, Duck. I do not think I could be. I am a solitary creature. The spells I help usher into the world and keep safe can be dangerous in their demands, attract dangerous beings in search of them. I ought to remain so, more for the sake of whoever wishes to be close to me than for my own.”

“But-”

“I need to return home. Farewell, Duck.” He slithers off the rock, and by the time Duck is in the water there’s only a flash of silver, disappearing into the darkness on the edge of town.

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

“Barclay, you seen ‘Drid lately?”

“Uh huh, saw him yesterday when I ran some food over. I wanted him to try my new red snapper wraps.”

“Oh. So he’s, uh, fine then?”

“Seems to be. Why?”

“The last few times I gone to see him, he ain’t been home. I’m worried I mighta done somethin’ to offend him.”

“Nah, I bet it’s just a run of bad timing. Indrid likes you more than anyone else on this reef.”

“...If I send someone else to get spells or info, he’s always there.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah. Oh.”

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

“Mr. Cold, I am here on the utmost urgent business.”

“Hello to you too, Ned, and Indrid is fine. What is…” He sees the oncoming answer and blanches from top to tail with fear.

“Duck is ill?”

“He hasn’t been able to get out of bed for a week. Barely consumes food or drink. The lovely Dani took a look at him, but it does not seem to be an ailment know to her.”

“Show me the way to him. Please.” Indrid follows Ned, and the lights follow Indrid, his foresight not showing him enough to know which spell may be needed. They wind through town, whispers darting from house to house as they do.

The night is only made worse by what he discovers when he reaches Duck’s side.

“He is heartsick. That is why Dani was unable to find means of healing him. Only one exists.”

“One of your, like, spells?” Aubrey asks hopefully, red tail twitching with worry.

“No. It can only be cured with a kiss from one who loves him. Romantically, I should add, as the illness is brought on by a romantic love that one tries to repress or destroy. Do any of you know someone who loves Duck that way?”

All heads in the room shake. He sighs, “May I have a moment of privacy to think?”

When they’re alone, he strokes Duck’s brow, tail curling protectively around him without him truly meaning too.

Then he leans down and plants a single, tender kiss to Duck’s lips.

Mismatched eyes flutter open.

“‘Oh thank goodness.”

“Fuck, whole body feels like I just got over the fin-pox.” Duck rolls his shoulders. Indrid realizes he hasn’t moved away from him, can’t bring himself to do so.

“‘Drid? Did, uh, did you just kiss me?”

“I, I did. I am sorry, it was the only-”

He’s yanked into the bed, one hand tangled in his hair as the other traps their hips together. Ducks tail flaps excitedly and Indrid’s curls around it as many times as he can.

“I tried so fuckin hard, darlin, I thought you were angry with me, or that you were pushin me away for my own good, and as much as I missed you I didn’t wanna push you so I tried not to think about you, but, but I, I just started feelin’ sicker and sicker whenever I pushed thoughts of you away.

“Oh my, love, I am sorry. I only meant to keep you safe. I never meant to hurt you so.”

“It ain’t your doin’; I’m the dipshit who couldn’t tell you how I felt. I know you didn’t want to be with anyone-”

“-you are right, I thought it would be dangerous. But, well, in the last few weeks, I have realized that while my powers make for an oft-dangerous time, so does your position in the reef. And I, I missed you terribly. I want to be by your side, Duck Newton, if you will still have me.”

Duck runs a firm hand down his tail, grinning brighter than the lights still spinning around them, “You know, darlin, I think I’ll do just that.”

#indrid cold/duck newton #Indruck #mermaid au #mermay fills

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luminescentlyricist · 3 years

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♒ Etching In The Sand ♓

They had decided to meet up on the surface, oblivious to the dangers they might have encountered. They both had their strife specibi filled, and the fact that they were highbloods lended them authority. They were naturally resistant to a lot more, as well, and lived for much longer than most other trolls. Eridan and Feferi, the two highest on the hemospectrum, were largely forgotten.

Due to their ingrained tendencies to be violent, or prone to snapping, Eridan was not the best to be around, as he could get aggressive or easily irritated at the least. Feferi fought herself, fought her blood and the genes twisting in her every molecule. She didn't want to be like him, or like Gamzee, she desired peace and tranquility and equality for all of her citizens. She wanted to try and help her violetblooded friend 'clam' himself down, no matter what it would take.

Feferi's laughter rang out as they talked on the golden beach, and Eridan thought it one of the most pleasant sounds in the world. She was so happy with him. She couldn't help but feel her heart bloom with appreciation for him. Every moment they spent together was precious to her. After a while, however, the violetblood's mouth twisted into a frown. The fins on the side of his head twitched, and he cupped his hands over them.

"Fef, you're hurtin' my ears a little."

He complained, though the other knew it was as good-natured as possible. Sure, he wasn't exactly the most sociable troll, or the greatest to be around in a general sense, but Feferi enjoyed her time with him nonetheless. He wasn't as... desperate around her, now that she had filled out one of his quadrants, which she counted as a general bonus on both her part and his. She looked at him with a shark-toothed grin, reaching out to play with his scarf.

"Whale, stop complaining so much, Eri-fin! Reely, sometimes I wonder how you can find so many negative comments!"

The empress-to-be replied after a while, though her voice was light and joking as she scolded him. She just thought him silly most of the time, and didn't think much of his complaints unless they were serious. Feferi was patient, and growing up with Eridan had helped her relationship with him steadily grow. She admired him. Despite everything, she admired the other's tenacity, or what tenacity he thought he had.

Feferi then let go of his scarf after a while of fidgeting with it good-naturedly, leaving it slightly askew. She hadn't intended to mess it up, of course, but she did. Before she could reach out to fix it for her Moirail, he cleared his throat and fixed it himself, his expression betraying nothing of his thoughts. When he next spoke, his tone was flat and rather unamused. He didn't like how she talked to him some days; although she was higher than him, her words often felt almost patronising, regardless of their true intent.

"Why? I'm not that bad, Fef. I don't complain that much."

He protested her comment, although he truly had no evidence to prove his point. He did complain quite a bit, despite that he thought Feferi was being unreasonable to say so. He fixed his cape, as one side of the collar was folded in. He did this to distract himself. Anything, anything to keep him from looking up at the fuchsiablood. He thought she looked down on him. Eridan got out one of his so-called 'science wwands', drawing idly in the sand. He wasn't that bad an artist, but his lines were sketchy and hesitant.

She watched, enraptured and silent as he drew in the sand, that simple moment meaning so much to her. The only noise that could be heard was their soft breathing, which they had both synced up unknowingly. That he was with her, moirail or not, was amazing. She was most likely one of the only other trolls who accepted Eridan for who he was. Although he was arrogant, show-offish and could be bitter, she liked him no matter what. He had never shown such a talent, not even to her, although she was his sole confidante in the world they inhabited.

"Maybe you aren't, Eri-fin, maybe you aren't."

Feferi replied, subconsciously repeating what she had said for emphasis. She didn't know what the violetblood was drawing, exactly, but he was very absorbed in his task, and had even took off his cape and scarf so that they didn't sweep at the sand. He smiled up at her after a few minutes, though he kept his mouth shut and didn't disclose the information she wanted to know so badly. She wanted to know why he was so concentrated on this simple sketch. It was fated to be blown away and disturbed by the wind, or trodden on by other pairs of feet carrying happy pairs of trolls.

"What are you drawing, Eridan?"

Eridan wasn't quite sure himself. Why he was sketching and drawing so much, with such care, if he knew it would all be destroyed in time was a mystery. He felt as if he had started something and it would be a disappointment to let it all go, to scuff over it and forget. He had no plans as to what the drawing would become, either, and let his wand decide where to take his hand. The other way around simply wouldn't have worked. It would mostly be a dissappointment to Feferi, which he wanted to avoid when possible.

"I don't know, Fef... what do you want it to be?"

Eridan asked, but resumed his drawing nonetheless. He didn't seem to have had any ideas as to what it would be moments earlier, but then he did. His strokes in the sand became more confident, even though they didn't get any faster. He was being careful, and even stood up, bent over in part as he expanded his work. His feet barely touched the sand, in order not to decimate the careful border that he had carved into the golden grains. He made diamonds along the edges of the artwork, careful lines curving only where necessary.

"Well, it's your artwork, I think. You can choose what it can be."

Her reply was soft to his ears from where she had moved over, closer to the shore. The waves weren't crashing down, and the moonlight shone in gentle silvery rays to illuminate the sand where the two trolls stood, apart - to an extent - for the first time in hours, having relished their closeness and stretched it as long as they possibly could. She looked up to him. She really did, despite the fact that he could be rather disagreeable at times.

Feferi had since gathered up his cloak and striped scarf from the ground. She didn't want them to get sandy, especially not his carefully knitted scarf. Although he had many just like it, this one was special because she herself had knitted it for him. Nobody else would know how special it was to Eridan except for he himself. She knew that he had liked it initially, and that it was slightly thinner in her fingers because he had worn it so much. But she didn't know the significance held across the time they had shared.

Hours had passed as he worked in almost complete silence, save for Feferi's lilting and comfortingly familiar voice encouraging him, pushing him to further efforts than he had ever expected to go. He didn't mind just listening to her voice and the natural sounds that surrounded him, as it soothed him while he would have otherwise been a lot more stressed about making it perfect. It had taken him quite a while to make Feferi comfortable with the idea of being his Moirail in the first place, due to the fact that he wasn't exactly... innocent.

She had learnt quickly, learnt to forget.

But they were happy together, and that's how he hoped it would stay. After a few adjustments, a few lines and swept sand piles later, he was finished. Stepping back from the art, he gazed at a large portrait. It was of himself, as expected, but he had drawn a certain fuchsiablood beside him. At a closer look, the two seadwellers in the piece were holding hands and smiling, and the diamond border remained. Eridan looked over at Feferi, grinning and taking her hand in an uncharacteristically gentle gesture.

"No, it's ours."

#luminescent lyricist writes #eridan #feferi #eridan ampora #feferi peixes #erifef #soft #🏠 stuck at home 🏠

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jisssooyah · 4 years

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Hi you... if you were going to curate a little season of films for me, which ones would you choose and why? They don't need to be horror, I'm just curious what you would choose 🌸

I don’t know if you’ll like these movies, or if you’ve already watched them, but after i watched these films, i felt like they might need to belong to you now. i hope they make you smile, roll your eyes, and cry just as much as i did.

1. city of god (2002): this is one of the most immersive and gorgeously shot films i’ve ever seen. it’s set in rio de janeiro during the 60s and spans decades exploring the drug culture in the slums and how this can affect kids just as they are trying to figure their own selves out. the way this film is shot, feels like you were at the sea with them as the sand crunched underneath your feet. but the way that the director captures these individuals, makes you so fucking relieved that you don’t live through any of the circumstances that they go through.

2. the dreamers (2004): set in 1968, this film follows three students in Paris who come of age and explore one another and their limits during the revolution. while these students prop themselves up as individuals obsessed with sex, running underneath themselves is a current of jealousy, obsession, and blurred familial relationships that made me increasingly uncomfortable. you find yourself feeling bad for the children, and ultimately upset at their upbringing because of their parents.

3. if beale street could talk (2018): this movie is based off of james baldwin’s titular 1974 novel. in it, the director expertly and vigorously explores love: a love that feels so real that it hurts. the cast is what sold this film to me. the way they talk, laugh, cry, and smile at one another is achingly beautiful and terrifyingly sad. i wanted to transport myself back to their time period and watch the main characters fall in love because the film didn’t seem like enough.

4. the neon demon (2016): this film follows an emerging model who sacrifices herself to the demands of the industry in order to be attractive and beautiful. there are so many stunning colors in this film that it makes you dizzy, like you’re in a trance and that’s what this world is for the main character: a trance. as she oscillates between reality and fantasy, her world and the characters in it, increasingly seek out to alter her personality.

5. death becomes her (1992): a deliberately ultra-campy parody of trashy, pandering "women's pictures," soap operas and paperbacks from the '80s and '90s. The three leads all do some of their best work - it's hilarious watching Meryl Streep play a terrible actress, Goldie Hawn is particularly hilarious during her character's cat lady phase, and all around just a really fun and eccentric film.

6. princess cyd (2017): i can’t think of anything to write for this but i just wanna say that this is literally one of the most pleasant movie experiences i’ve ever had. so much light and genuine interaction in warm sun rays radiating positive energy and an openness that is far too uncommon in movies nowadays. people talk, people connect, people grow bonds and are allowed to be sexual or intimate or personal without an air of shame or judgement. just pure kind and curious human association.

7. spiderman: into the spiderverse (2018): the message of Spider-Verse is not "gentrify yourself! stop expressing your personality and just conform to what society wants you to be!" After all, what makes you different makes you Spider-Man, and Miles' final expression of himself as a superhero still retains much of his personality and individuality...they're just being used in more productive and fulfilling ways. It's the little things that drive the point home, like noticing that the title page for Miles' finished Great Expectations essay has been stylistically doodled and colored like street art. Rather than seeing his artistic gifts as an opposition to his schoolwork, Miles infuses them together to make the best of the hand he's been dealt.

8. my life as a zucchini (2016): initially heartbreaking and sad, but slowly becoming more joyful and heartwarming as the plot moves along. The film really feels like it captures the essence and child like wonder of these kids, all of them going through hardships but managing to find something to help each other out. It’s so refreshing to see the actual orphanage portrayed in a more positive light, not the usual horrid dump that a lot of lesser movies play them out as. The animation is stunning. One of the best uses of stop motion I’ve seen, everything is so colourful and detailed. There’s some moments set in snowy mountains and these look incredible. There’s clearly been so much love and care put into each and every scene here. The music too, sounds spectacular, it really works well with each scene.

9. lovesong (2016): Mindy and Sarah have that type of relationship where they don't need words because they speak in a language made out of glances and touches. This movie is about the fear of ruining a meaningful friendship and losing an important person, about love that is so complicated that one might not even try because the outcome seems to be so obvious.

10. her (2013): Heartbreak is formative: it changes you heart side out, and leaves your muscles a little stronger, your skin a little thicker, your bones easier to repair. Before this film, I’d never seen anything constructive in having your insides pulled apart by the seams by another person, but this film taught me how. Being in love and then being forced out of it is an experience that changes you fundamentally, but Her taught me its purpose – you don’t need them to leave you so that you can find someone who’s a better fit, because perhaps you never will. You need it to participate in humanity. The common denominator is being hurt, and without it, you’re barely alive.

11. shoplifters (2018): bittersweet and richly transportive, Shoplifters is a film that nonchalantly eases you into its tragic beauty in a way that doesn't punch you hard until the end. It simultaneously made me want to be part of the film's world and also very glad that I'm not. The setting the characters live in is messy and cluttered and full of dysfunction and lies, but it's also got family, and laughter, and fist-bumps, and slurping warm noodles while rain pings on the tin rooftop. So nuanced, so many tiny moments of delicate beauty and unassuming heartbreak, so many people making terrible decisions with good intentions.

12. god’s own country (2017): though it is a love story between two men, this aspect is only addressed briefly in a single scene. Rather, the film is about finding someone who makes you want to be a better person, someone who comes into your life just when you needed it most. Gheorghe helps Johnny open up and realize the beauty of the simple life. From this relationship, Johnny begins to feel comfortable with expressing himself, and his love and gratitude towards others. He also begins to appreciate life in the country, surrounded by stunning landscapes and the beauty of simplicity. Addressing the Yorkshire countryside, Gheorghe says "It is beautiful, but lonely." Johnny is presented with the notion that he doesn't have to be cold and miserable, slaving and drinking his days away. He is presented with the possibility of no longer being alone and finally finding happiness and contentment - and it is more than gratifying to see him accept it.

13. disobedience (2017): a tender star-crossed daydream. the three main character dynamics are special enough on their own, but the romance that blooms at the center is cathartically intimate and even magical: a reunion that feels so inevitable. catching glimpses of a past life, details we aren’t privy to. all the stolen kisses and whispers and promises. a bond so strong that they fall back in sync with each other like second nature, even if they try to fight against it. even if it won’t work. and yet they choose each other, even if for a few minutes.

14. raw (2016): this film is so gross and I like that. There is tons of blood and unique body horror and it all works perfectly for the tone the film is attempting to set. The use of color, specifically neons, creates a constant feeling that you are traveling through some sort of weird ghost world, which I really like. Overall, it's a very well put together film with flashes of brilliance.

15. the night is short, walk on girl (2017): what an absolutely magical adventure of a film. Essentially this is a heavily episodic look at a night in the lives of several people, centered on a woman and a man as she gleefully floats from event to event while he neurotically obsesses over how to "coincidentally" talk to her. The storytelling is incredible; while the overarching narrative is simple there are countless threads woven together to connect everyone in the story to each other. That in itself is a big theme: connections between people, how everything is interrelated, and what a large impact seemingly insignificant things people do can have an impact on everyone around them.

16. coraline (2009): Coraline is the best stop motion movie ever made in my opinion. Before the film released in 2009, I read the book and was completely blown away by its creativity and story. It’s a pretty dark tale featuring many scenes of fright that work well in both a horror setting and an animated kids setting. On surface value, this film is quite horrifying, which is something I’ve always loved about it. While it does make a few minor changes to the book, it improves upon a piece of art that was already jaw-droppingly good. Coraline feels like a real little girl with some real problems. She’s selfish but likable which is something most films cannot translate well. Of course, she has a pretty awesome arc as well which brings this movie to a perfect close for her character. The other-mother is also perfectly done. She is almost exactly how I imagined her in the book and the animation on her is spookily gorgeous. There is not one dull moment in this film. It is literally a perfect piece of cinema.

17. the third wife (2019): haven’t seen a film this visually delicate in a while. Ash Mayfair works with the looming mountain surroundings to make her characters —these women, these girls— as small as possible, as isolated as possible. Uneasiest of all is the protagonist May, so young and so weighed by responsibility, her position blurs between being one of the wives and being one of the daughters. It’s an extremely bleak tale of circumstance. An old tale, certainly, but so beautifully crafted it doesn’t matter. Mayfair holds a fearful tension throughout, and it only ever shatters in the cruelest of ways.The abundance of women and display of sisterhood begin as a comfort, but horror takes over as we realize how conditional and fragile that comfort is. Even the daughters are subconsciously aware, one of them praying to the gods to grow up and become a man, shearing her hair off in naive triumph. It’s a doomed cycle of girls performing roles which are unfortunately their best option, right up until the final scene of May with her daughter, still in their mourning clothes. She, like the older wives, finally realizes they’re the same as the cattle laying on their side for too many days.

#asks #shortcake-kaspbrak

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mrneighbourlove · 4 years

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The Rising Sun: Ch 6. Like Father, Like Son

"Hrm... Awena? No... Calian? Eh... what about Cheveyo? No? Not that one either?" Asakonigei was having a conversation with the unborn child in her belly. She kept waiting for the child to kick at the sound of a chosen name. Thus far, not much luck. "Your father said Chanteyukan was too long and complex, yet that was my great-grandfather's name. Hrm... what to name you, my little one?"

Malik walked into his chambers, startled by how earthly his wife suddenly felt. Metallic. Her magic was a new buzz in his ear that he'd have to learn to properly attune to. "What's this I hear about Donoma and Revan upsetting you?"

Asakonigei looked up from her list of possible names. "They're both being brats, that's what." Asakonigei sounded irritated. "Revan thinks Donoma is your favorite child, Donoma thinks Revan is too full of himself because of that tournament, Revan is sore because we didn't come to the tournament and he doesn't feel 'Gerudo' enough to be here, Donoma told Revan to stop following Luimaya around like a lovesick puppy because it's never going to happen, and Revan thinks I'm mental because I want to have this baby even though it may possibly kill me." She then took a breath. "And... I think that summarizes it."

"He thinks I undervalue him?" That was what hurt Malik the most to hear.

"Either that, or he's just upset that Donoma was brought along to your 'golden city' and he was not." Asakonigei ran a hand down her face. "He's just being moody, I swear..."

"No... no I suppose there is truth to that. I'll have a sit down with him later."

"Well, perhaps some of the fault is mine." Asakonigei sighed as she set aside her paper list. "We haven't been at home in months. I feel like I sort of left him there by himself. And good spirits, when we get back, there will be a load of things to catch up on. I miss being able to work in my forge, I miss our house, I miss Nubi'ahlus, my uncles, my cousins, our friends there... heh, I even miss that little pastry shop you and I frequent to get some cinnamon rolls." She smiled. "It's still there after all these years. Remember when we'd take Revan and Donoma there when they were little? Revan was always eating his so fast and Donoma would savor hers... and when Revan would try to steal some of hers, we'd have to each hold one." She chuckled. "Good memories."

Malik stood tall, grasping the bed railing with both hands tightly. "I'm not coming back to Hyrule."

"...?!" Asakonigei's expression said it all for him. "... what?!"

"I'm not going back to Hyrule. I'm going to stay here. This is my home Asa."

"And you just decided this? Without talking to me?!" Asakonigei was absolutely furious. She managed to swing her legs to the side of the bed and slowly stand. "Without even asking how I'd feel about this?!"

"I've built it up to you, haven't I? Steadily letting you know my responsibilities lie here. This is a choice I'm cementing now.”

"You never said this would be a permanent home, Malik. You said you were rebuilding Taiyo Town for your people." Asakonigei stated, not budging. "You never said anything about uprooting our life in Hyrule. My business is there, my relatives, our friends, our queen for crying out loud! Your best friend!"

"My spirit is here. I feel alive here. Aren't we old enough to stay here? You can retire, raise our child here with all the women able to support you. I can support you with my supervision focused here and not all of Hyrule." Malik remained calm, wanting to be as diplomatic as he could. "Nubi'ahlus can live in the desert nearby, and after you have this child, how dedicated can you be to your business regardless?"

"That's not the point, the point is you just assumed! You didn't even ask me!" Asakonigei was still angry. "A husband and wife talk through these things together and they---...!!!!!!" The Kovina stared at Malik's hand. Very intensely. "What. Is. That?"

Malik looked down, his hand glowing lightly at the front most triangle. "This? This is the Triforce of Power."

"... and why do you have it?" Asakonigei had a feeling that she really was not going to like the answer.

"Ganondorf entrusted it to me." Malik spoke softly, his hand tightening and loosing with a grip.

"... you're going to rule here, aren't you?" Asakonigei asked point blank.

"I'm going to be a king, yes. I'm going to use this godly power as a source of hope, inspiration and protection for Taiyo Town."

Asakonigei's anger was suddenly replaced with sadness. She looked... really hurt. Waddling over to the chair, she slowly sat down, one hand on her belly. "... I need to think for a little while."

"I understand." Malik sat beside her, his voice matching his sadness. He knew there was a good chance he might lose her, yet his heart was set steady in the sands. "I lived hundreds of years waiting for this moment again since I was a child. To live among Gerudo who could feel safe and welcome in the world. I want to give that to them, to provide that safety. I want the chance to live my dream."

"Your dream didn't include me then." Asakonigei motioned to the tent flaps. "It didn't include our kids, our friends, our family, other responsibilities... I just... I can't right now, Malik." The Kovina put a hand over her face.

"Our children are grown adults, our responsibilities can be taken care of here, and our family and friends can visit us. I-" Malik stopped, realizing his wife wanted time to conclude her thoughts on her own. "I'm going to talk with Donoma and Revan."

"... you do that." Asakonigei replied quietly. ~ Donoma was in the middle of trying her best to Tebanam's camel, Loogie, to behave. He kept trying to make his way over to the females and was protesting every time Donoma cut him off. With a frustrated groan, the young girl firmly shook her finger at the animal. "Listen, the ladies are nice and all, but you have to stay over here. Is that clear?"

"Would a sand seal be a better mount for you in the future?" Her father asked from behind, catching her off guard. "Even the males listen to commands well."

Donoma was a little too comfortable in Taiyo Town and had let her guard drop. She jumped slightly and then gestured to the camel. "I think I rather have one of those sand rays that Skyla has waiting for her in the Garai outskirts. Now that... is some serious transportation."

"There are many interesting creatures that could reside in our desert home, eh?" He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "I'm not mad, but I want to talk to you and your brother."

"Yes, there are plenty. I'm almost envious of Skyla seemingly being able to communicate with them in her own special way." Donoma's shoulder slumped. "I'll apologize for snapping in front of Mom but I'm not going to apologize for stating the truth. Revan was acting stupid in that tournament and really could have gotten hurt just to impress Luimaya."

"Was it really her he wanted to impress though." Malik tilted his head, wanting his daughter to think.

"Yeah. I think it was. I mean, Dad, you've got to be blind if you haven't seen how he looks at her." Donoma held Loogie's snout and blinked her eyelashes, mimicking her brother. "You're so awesome, your mom and my dad are best friends, let's get married and make powerful babies."

"I know who he likes. Trust me. It's not Luimaya he has eyes of love for." He patted her lightly on the back for assurance.

"If that's true, then why does he still follow her?" Donoma asked, simply using logic. "He didn't even respect her wishes. Personally, I'd kick his ass, but Luimaya has more of rep to uphold than me."

“The future Queen is stubborn. Like it or not, she needs protection. It’s easier to follow a career then go after the heart for a Gerudo man.”

"Luimaya is stubborn, but she doesn't want to see Revan get hurt." Donoma had a slight frown on her face. "I don't want to see my brother get hurt."

"It's the nature of the world we live in my daughter. Danger can try to take us down at any moment. We have to be ready for it. You have to believe your brother is."

"I believe my brother is. That's the problem, Dad." Donoma looked at her father. "I know Revan is a great fighter, but when he's focused on someone else, protecting someone else, he gets sloppy sometimes. That's what I'm worried about. I love Lui like a sister, but... to me, she's hotter than Vatra's own fire. There's something..." The young Gerudo woman sighed in frustration and gave a small shudder. The children did not know of the prophecy, but the parents did. There was something that was being hidden from them. "There's just something off about her power. I know it, Revan knows it, hell, even her cousins and siblings have admitted it. She's strong. Incredibly strong. Stronger than her Mother, and Queen Zarazu is magic incarnate as the leader of the Lorleidians. I mean, is there something I'm missing here?"

"No. You're not." Malik gently rubbed the back of his daughter’s hair to calm her down. "I think Revan is afraid of becoming sloppy himself."

"... maybe I'm just becoming paranoid." Donoma felt out of place in this conversation. Like a piece of missing. "I feel foolish."

"Don't be. You are still young Donoma. In time you will find all the knowledge you seek, and fit every piece of the puzzle you so desire." It was if Malik plucked the wording from her inner thoughts and applied it to help ease her mind. "Have faith in yourself and others."

"... I understand." Donoma then had to ask her father, rather bluntly, but trying to be nice about it. "Have you talked to Mom about your plan to stay here?"

"I have. I'd love more than anything for you both to stay here by my side... but I know I can't force you to accept this as your residence if you choose not to."

"I wouldn't mind staying here some of the time, Dad, but... all my friends are back in Hyrule." Donoma did not want to hurt her father's feelings. "Taiyo Town is great. I'm learning so much and it's absolutely beautiful, but I don't want to leave behind all the people I care about just yet. And Revan's going to be in Hyrule too, and you know if I leave him by himself for too long, he's going to do something stupid."

"I understand. I love you my sunshine." Malik knelt to hug his daughter close.

"I love you too, Dad." Donoma hugged her father tightly. "Just... just go easy on Mom too, okay? I know that you really want her here but..." She gently suggested. "Maybe work out a deal with her like Zizi and Kahli do? Summer months in Hyrule, winter months in Taiyo Town? Just a suggestion. She doesn't want to leave with our great-uncles so old now."

"If that's what it takes..." Malik rose up, taking in the desert air. "Do you know where your brother is?"

"If I had to guess, he's sneakily following around Luimaya while she's trying to avoid him."

"Can't be hard to track him down." As Malik made his way through the town, he found his son. But at a place he wasn't expecting. Revan was at one of the bars, taking a drink of raspberry margarita. He seemed stiff as he washed down the drink. "Son?"

Revan turned to look at his dad, a look of surprise, then slight humour. "Oh. Hey there King Dad. How's the kingdom going?"

"I see it didn't take you long to find a bar. Your sister thought you'd be quietly stalking Luimaya."

Revan snickered at that statement. "The princess is safer than ever, and she's more than happy among her cousins she hasn't seen in eons and all the giggly cacophony of Gerudo around here."

Malik sat down beside his son, noticing this was his second drink. "A cacophony eh? I take it you aren't enjoying yourself?"

"If I get one more brat telling me where I can penetrate my sword, I'm gonna lose my mind. And who says I'm not enjoying myself? I'm away from the rest of you with the best drink I've ever had. Nice job finding decent margaritas dad."

"Why are you mad at me? At your mother?"

"Oh, hmmm, let's think about that. Could you be that you are power driven? That you care more about this backwater desert town rather then staying in Hyrule with your own family? Or maybe its the fact you never even asked me if I wanted to come here and learn about the other half of my cultural background. That can certainly piss off a child." Revan clenched his drink tightly, coming close to shattering it with a flex of his hand. "But I think the thing that makes me the angriest, more than that, more than Luimaya's family making fun of me, is that you knocked up mom again! That you convinced her to keep a baby that will most likely kill her!" Revan sneered at his dad, finishing his second drink in a quick gulp, purely out of bitterness. "You were right. Gerudo Men are cursed have those they most care about come into harm."

Malik was stunned by that. "When did I---!!!" A memory came back to him, nearly a decade ago. Malik's fears and stress on the job lead him to drink himself into a stupor one night. Revan training by himself in the backyard while Asakonigei and Donoma where out flying their dragons. Malik realized it was the eve of his and Cipher's death long, long ago. With alcohol and worry clouding his judgement, he left a warning to Revan that stuck with the boy for years.

'Revan. You can't slack off. You have to push yourself harder if you want to succeed in this world. The gods have it out for us Gerudo. And no Gerudo man has lived in this world without some form of suffering. Fate will hurt us in so many ways. And it can hurt the ones we love the most. Remember that.'

Watching his son drink himself into a bitter corner made Malik see himself clearly in the young man. "Son... I'm not going to let your mother die. And you can't be so hard on yourself. Damn fate or anything else from stopping you from being happy."

"So what? I should be like you and take what you want right? You certainly have the power for it now don't you." Revan coldly looked at the mark on his father's hand. "You might want to cover that up. But I imagine you're going to etch that symbol into every gauntlet and glove of yours now. I get it. Best to show off the goal you were working for."

"Revan..."

"Honestly dad, I am happy for you. Really. You worked who knows how long to achieve all this. Just... just don't succumb to that power and ego. I want to remember you as my dad... and not kill the monster Klinge." Revan got up, heading out to find a bed. "I'm going to go to bed early. Maybe I'll return for a family gathering in the morning. If Luimaya orders it."

Malik sat completely still, saddened to see his son so bitter and angry. Like father, like son. And he was seeing the uglier sides.

When Malik finally returned to the tent, Asakonigei was still upset with him. She was not angry about the fact of him wanting to stay in Taiyo Town, what upset her was he did not even ask her. Not being part of the decision really hurt her feelings. Though, the Kovina was smart enough to know that stress was not good for the baby. So, she was quietly trying to ready a few things that the baby would need. A diaper changing station, a basinet, a few loose clothes, and doing her absolute best to knit a blanket to starve off boredom, but miserably failing at knitting.

Yet, at the look on her husband's face, she knew something else was bothering him. So, she chose to let the issue of excluding her in the decision slide for now and asked what was wrong. Then came the story of what Revan had said to him. And there was nothing scarier on the planet than a pregnant woman in that moment. So, in the morning, Asakonigei managed to waddle to her son's tent with two of the biggest pots she could find. And promptly clanged them together with a loud... POW!!!

The gong had been banged, and Revan fell out of bed. His head was ringing, and not just from the pots. The margaritas had given him the biggest hangover in years. “What the hell?!”

"Now that you're awake, we're going to talk." Asakonigei set down the pots and plopped down on the now vacant mattress to rest.

“No. I’m going back to bed.” Revan did his best to crawl back into bed.

"Do you want me to clang the pots again? Cause I will keep at it with a snap of my fingers until you suck it up and talk."

“Talk then.”

"First off, you're going to tell me what in the world possessed you to think that your father prefers Donoma over you."

“He brought her here. That’s evidence enough.”

"And? This is a Gerudo community of women. Don't you think he did it for your sister's benefit?" Asakonigei then said. "He wanted her to meet other women like her, not because he prefers her over you. He's never thought that."

"What about the fact I wanted to learn about Gerudo culture. He didn't take me because a Gerudo man is cursed by being born."

"That's not the reason he didn't take you, Revan. He didn't take you because you had other events occurring." Asakonigei explained to her son. "Gerudo men are not cursed. Look at King Covarog, Prince Ralnor, and Tebanam. And eve your friends, Turagor, Zahirog, Kerugan, Kuredor... all of them have Gerudo in their veins."

“Give them time. That’s what dad said....” Revan sounded so defeated, pulling a blanket closer over him. “Covarog watched his kingdom been torn apart. Tebanam had his heart broken. Uncle Ralnor has the darkness Klinge and Ganondorf held. Give it time. We hurt those we care about the most, or others...”

"Covarog did have to watch Vul'kar destroy Hyrule. But you know what happened after that?" Asakonigei asked her son, a lightness in her voice. "He rebuilt it with the help of his loved ones. Tebanam did have his heart broken. Then he found true love with Faris, and now even has a lovely little daughter, Skyla. Ralnor may have this darkness your father speaks of. However, he has kept his family and friends safe... and even he is happy with Cass and his three beautiful girls. For each part of strife in their lives... they've had a bigger spark of light."

"And father? Does him having the Triforce of Power not speak an omen to come?"

"Ganondorf trusts him. Queen Zarazu trusts him. And... I noticed markings of her magic upon his wrist." Asakonigei admitted to her son. "I do believe our queen has bound him to his word that he will use the Tri-Force for good. She is the wise one, after all."

Revan paused, unsure how to proceed with that. "I don't want dad to become Klinge again... I don't want to be Klinge."

"He won't be. You won't be. You promised to protect Luimaya, did you not?" Asakonigei shifted on the bed, pulling her son's head onto her lap. She carefully stroked his hair. "She's your good friend and I know you care about her a great deal. She is going to succeed King Covarog and Queen Zarazu one day. It may not seem like it now, but Luimaya is very important for Hyrule, for international relationships... she is not only Hylian, not only Gerudo, but Lorleidian as well. Our nation is getting more diverse."

"It's not Luimaya I'm worried about. She doesn't even need a bodyguard. I don't want to Nakeso getting killed because of me. Luimaya is fine on her own."

"... then why did you take the job to protect Luimaya if you're worried for Nakeso?" Asakonigei asked her boy. "What makes you think she will be in danger because of you?"

“Because fate is cruel. If I keep myself as far away from Nakeso without ruining our friendship, she can be safe.”

"What makes you so sure, Revan?"

Revan turned to his mom, a bitter look on his face. “Because it’s what happened to dad’s first wife. It’s what happens to everyone in this crazy extended family. They go through horrible trials, and those closest to them are hurt or killed.”

"What happened to Cipher was not your father's fault; it was a fight. She died due to a battle wound." Asakonigei assured her son. "Then he was reborn thanks to our queen's magic. You're here. Your sister's here. I'm still here." She questioned him then. "Life will always have trials, Revan. The only thing we can do is look forward to the future to try for a better tomorrow. If you want to view it as a curse, you may, but... I believe that if you talk to Nakeso, tell her your fears and how you truly feel... she'll want to stand beside you no matter what. Just like I have for your father."

"She died because the Zelda of that era stabbed her sword through her skull."

"And do you think Cipher faults your father for that?"

"She's dead. You think I want to live with that guilt like dad did? Hell no."

"If you're so worried about Nakeso being with you, then why don't you consult the goddesses for an answer?"

“What? Kovani? She wouldn’t listen.” Revan rose, taking a deep sigh. “And the Hylian gods aren’t exactly... fair.”

"The Golden Goddesses are never fair according to your father." Asakonigei gave a small snort. "It wouldn't hurt to ask Kovina. She's not as bad as Vatra."

"I doubt she can control fate." Her son sighed as he ran a hand down his face. "Anything else you want to talk about? I'm going to get water and take care of this hangover."

"Yes, I do. You need to apologize to your father and your sister." Asakonigei was not going to take no for an answer. "And you need to talk to Nakeso."

“I’ll think about it.”

"You'll do it." Asakonigei held up the pots. "Or do I have to clang these again?"

"Fine. God you are stubborn."

"You didn't get all your stubborn genes from your father, you know. Some of them, you got from me." Asakonigei kissed Revan's forehead and then hefted herself to her feet. "I'm going to walk back to my tent now. If your father finds out that I've snuck out, he'll raise hell again."

"Ah let him." Revan watched her walk off and sighed. "Better find my sister to start..."

________________________________________________________________

Previous Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/622677305470402560/the-rising-sun-ch-5-power-exchanged

Final Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/622856589528989696/the-rising-sun-ch-7-hail-the-king

Crossover with my friend @ridersoftheapocalypse. Go read her solo work as well as mine! Comments always appreciated.

#crossover #ridersoftheapocalypse #Gerudo #Taiyo Town #Klinge/Malik #Asakonigei #Donoma #Revan

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