#everything else is for undertale cafe

[oars]

bought another flip phone too

#everything else is for undertale cafe #its pink and 4g so hopefully i can connect it to the wifi this time #my other ones just sitting looking pretty

[tuxibirdie]

Welcome to Undersociation!

this'll be the masterpost where I link stuff related to my AU: Undersociation

everything should also be here under the undersociation tag

feel free to ask about the au!

⚠️WORK IN PROGRESS!!⚠️

this is an unfinished au so things are ever-changing!

also for the record there is also pretty heavy OC involvement in this AU; not just the Undertale cast!

so if you see any reference to some random person, that's one of my beloved children

=====

Character profiles:

Spade (Sans) - Pre Catalyst/Post Catalyst

Clover (Papyrus) - Pre Catalyst/Post Catalyst

Undyne - Pre Catalyst

Mettaton - Pre Catalyst

Gaster - Void

Olivier - Pre Catalyst/Post Catalyst

In progress:

Undyne - Post Catalyst

Alphys - Pre/Post Catalyst

Mettaton - Post Catalyst

Toriel - Pre/Post Catalyst

Flowey - Pre/Post Catalyst

and more! (maybe) (these guys ^ just happen to be the ones with the most concrete roles rn)

=====

Basic Summary:

In this world, the monsters were never imprisoned underground, humans still have magic, and there are sentient species other than humans and monsters (think demi-humans, spirits, fae).

Everyone is capable of using magic; however, monsters work on a different magic system from everyone else.

The focal point of this story is The Association, a mysterious corporation who's purpose is to keep the public safe. However, the full extent of what it does is left in the shadows.

There are basically two main phases to the story: Pre-Catalyst (aka the calm before the storm) and Post-Catalyst (aka everything goes wrong).

The Catalyst:

(I recommend reading about Source Crystals and Entities first to understand fully.)

Sans' Basement Machine (we're running with the "it's to get Gaster back" function) is powered by the Grand Source Crystal, and thus, hooked up to it.

One day, the GSC experiences a magical power surge. The Machine experiences a moment of functionality--which exposes the GSC to the void, thus corrupting the GSC with the void's influence.

The magic surge is very damaging and painful to people. Many have died.

A whole wave of negativity entities have spawned.

Because of all the death and destruction, they're stronger than usual.

The now void-corrupted GSC surges again, powering up the negativity entities further, and corrupting a whole host of people.

Boom. City contained apocalypse. :)

=====

The World:

The Magic System

The Multiverse

Entities

Organizations:

The Association

The Four Seasons Academy

Stargazer's Cafe/Club

#undersociation #undertale #undertale au #utmv

[viviannesmonster]

UNDERTALE BOYFRIEND/GIRLFRIEND SCENARIOS

First Hangout

-TORIEL

The first time you hung out with Toriel was when she invited you to her house while Frisk was at school

She made some tea and you two ended up talking to each for hours.

You left when Frisk came home so that Toriel could start making you dinner.

She escorted you back to your car and bid you farewell.

"Next time you come over, I will make you some butterscotch and cinnamon pie!"

-SANS

The first time you hung out with Sans, he invited you over to watch funny shows with him.

Although you two didn't talk much and he ended up falling asleep and you had to be escorted out by his brother.

You still had a really fun time.

"hey hey, how's it goin'?"

-PAPYRUS

The first time you hung out with Papyrus was at his house.

You two had talked on the phone the other day and somehow the subject of spaghetti was brought up.

Another human friend of his told him the way he made spaghetti was incorrect and so he asked if you knew how.

You said you did, and thus you taught him how to make spaghetti in his kitchen.

It was messy and a lot of work. But you two had a lot of fun and ended up making pretty damn good pasta.

"WELCOME TO MY HUNBLE ABODE, (Y/N)!"

-UNDYNE

The first time you hung out with Undyne was when you two decided to see a scary movie together.

You both like scary movies, and while everyone else was screaming in terror, you and Undyne were laughing at the really bad jumpscares.

You had the best time with her.

"PFBFBFTTT! LOOK AT HOW FUNNY CHUCKY'S KID LOOKS! HAHAHA!"

-ALPHYS

Your first hang out with Alphys happened at her house.

The minute she found out you liked Anime, she wanted to have you over as soon as possible.

When you got there, her house was mostly cleaned up, and she sat on the couch surrounded by snacks.

You two binged all of Mew Mew Kissy Cutie and you two finished your favorite anime as well.

You ended up staying the night and you two fell asleep on her couch together.

"H-Have you ever seen M-Mew Mew Kissy Cutie?....N-No?! Oh boy, you're in for a t-treat!"

-METTATON

After Mettaton slipped you his number, he scheduled a little hang out session for you two.

A private hang out session.

No cameras, and no one else.

He sent a car to your address to pick you up and you were brought to his mansion.

When you arrived, he stepped outside and greeted you as if you were an old friend he hadn't seen in years.

The hangout was only two hours but you two got to know each other quite a bit.

After the hangout was over, he walked you back to the car and gave your knuckles another kiss.

Then the driver drove you back to your house.

"(Y/N), MY LOVELY! IT'S SO WONDERFUL TO FINALLY MEET YOU! COME IN, COME IN!"

-ASGORE

The first time you hung out with Asgore was went you two went out to a cafe for tea.

You met him there and he payed for both of you.

The two of you talked for a good long while and had at least three cups of tea each.

There was just so much to talk about!

You had to leave the hangout session to go to an appointment but promised to see Asgore again.

Why wouldn't you after having such a fun time talking to him?

"Howdy (Y/n)! I hope you like the little cafe I picked out."

-MUFFET

The first time you hung out with Muffet was as she was closing up shop.

She was cleaning her counters and you came in ti ask how business was.

She was so happy to tell you all about how everything went uphill when she took you advice and you two ended up talking and hanging out as she cleaned.

Which eventually turned into you two getting coffee together.

"Oh dearie! I took your advice adn everything went wonderfully!"

-GRILLBY

The first time you hung out with Grillby was at the beach.

Not to go swimming, but to take a walk.

You walked in the water, while Grillby obviously did not.

The two of you walked amd talked for a long while, until it got late and you had to go home.

You had fun though and you were happy to do it again.

"...you're not going to splash me...are you?"

-GASTER

When you walked back into the underground, Gaster told you that you had to find three of his "followers"

He explained to you that he used to be the royal scientist for the king.

Until he was accidentally killed by his experiment.

His body and soul were shattered, divided into four parts.

And those other parts took the shape of other monsters, hence why they are technically his followers.

He was waiting for someone who could see him to help him and it turned out to be you.

In each landmark besides Home, there was a gaster follower.

The way to get his follower reconnected to him was to touch both of them at the same time.

That way, Gaster could "absorb" his follower back into his body.

Everytime you did, he came a little less goopy and see through, and a lot more like a skeleton monster.

After the final gaster follower was "absorbed", Gaster's soul appeared in front of his fully corporeal body and returned to its owner.

He reached out to touch you, gently holding your shoulder before he pulled you into a hug.

He thanked you for bringing him back from the dead.

Then you two left the underground, and went to join the others.

"⚐︎☟︎ 💣︎✡︎ ☝︎⚐︎👎︎...❄︎☟︎✌︎☠︎😐︎ ✡︎⚐︎🕆︎...❄︎☟︎✌︎☠︎😐︎ ✡︎⚐︎🕆︎...❄︎☟︎✌︎☠︎😐︎ ✡︎⚐︎🕆︎ 💧︎⚐︎ 💣︎🕆︎👍︎☟︎..."

(Translation: Oh my god...thank you...thank you...thank you so much...)

[Hope you enjoyed. Stay tuned for more and have a good day]

#undertale #boyfriend girlfriend scenarios #toriel #sans #papyrus #undyne #alphys #mettaton #muffet #grillby #gaster #self insert

[the-music-rose-person]

Blind Date(Tarot)

OK, so this is random oneshot I did with one of my Undertale OCs named "Tarot". And for some reason I think he and Horror would be a funny and cute couple-

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

I took in a deep breath as I stood outside the small cafe. “Okay… You got this, it’s just a date,” I whispered to myself as I opened the door and entered. 

“Hey, Tarot, is it just you today?,” Coin asked as he looked at me. “Nope, I’m on a date today,” I said with a smile. “OOooh, who’s the person?,” Coin asked me. “Well we just both just call each other by the first letter of our name, so H,” I quickly explained. “Of course, of course. But hey, if someone is looking for ‘T’ I’ll let them know it’s you,” Coin said with a laugh. “Thank you,” I said with a smile. “Now go sit down and here’s a menu,” He told me as he handed two menus and pushed me over to a booth. 

I sat down at a booth and waited. “Okay, who’s H?,” I thought as I looked over to the other patrons in the cafe. Looking for who could be my blind date tonight. Then I looked at my phone, checking for any texts from H, and there was!

H: Hey, I might be a bit late

H: My alarm decided not to work :P

T: Alright, do you know when you’ll be here?

H: Maybe 15 minutes?

T: OK

I sighed and turned my phone off before I put it back in my pocket. “Okay, so fifthteen minutes? So I guess I have time to make sure I don’t make a fool of myself,” I thought with a small nod as I tried to think of everything I should do and what could happen. 

“... You’re T?,” I heard a rough voice ask, pulling me out of my thoughts. When I looked up to see… Horror. “You again-?,” I said as I saw him sit down in front of me and I slid a menu to him.

We both sat in silence as we looked over the menus. Why him of all people?! He’s a broot and a total jerk! Why would he want to date, is this a ploy that he and his group planned? What if he’s going to kidnap me again?! But he did let me go…

“...You look nice today,” I heard him mumble out. I looked at him in confusion. “Um, thanks, you do too,” I muttered with a small nod. “Thanks,” He said as he looked up at me for a moment. 

“Um… How do you know Charm…?,” I asked, shifting slighting in my spot. “They’ve.. Helped me out before, not with my work with Nightmare, but something else,” He explained. “I see… Um.. How long have you known them?,” I asked again. “I think about… Eight.. Maybe nine months?,” He answered, though he sounded like he wasn’t so sure. I nodded, not sure what else to ask. But maybe…

“Why did you let me go…?,” I asked, tightening my grip on the menu I was holding. I hope this isn’t a mistake. “...Returnin’ the favor for Charm,” He answered, again he was unsure, as if he needed to remember. “I see,” I said softly.

“.. I understand if ya want to leave, or want me to leave,” Horror said as he stared at the table. I sat there for a moment, a little conflicted. We did get off the wrong foot before… But I enjoyed talking to him the last couple of months… Maybe… I can see what it could be like with him…

I took in a deep breath and let it out before I held out my hand to him. “My name is Tarot, I like to do readings for others and love taffy,” I said, making him confused for a moment before laughing. “Name’s Horror, I have a pet chicken and eat mostly anything,” He said as he shook my hand. I smiled a little before I got the flashes.

The flashes.. Seems nice.. One of me is doing a reading for him, one of us chasing a chicken… But one he seemed to be hiding me. I think… This could end well at least..

“You got a chicken?,” I asked as he let my hand go. “Yup, her name is Chicky,” He said proudly, making me giggle a little. “What? It’s a great name,” He said with a playful huff. “It’s a cute name,” I said with a smile. “Of course it is, oh, I got pictures of Chicky, you wanna see?,” He asked as he got his phone out. “Sure,” I said as I leaned over the table to look at the pictures with him.

He’s actually really nice to talk to, and he’s so excited to talk about Chicky, like a kid showing off a picture.

#undertale ship #undertaleoc #undertale original character #horror sans #one shot #sans #sans au #horrortale #sans horrortale #sans oc

[ao3feed-undertale1]

Totally Super! (Totally Spies x Maler Reader x Video Games!)

read it on AO3 at https://archiveofourown.org/works/55449802 by VideoGameGuru Y/N L/N is your average YouTube Streamer, An Ace Gaming Guru Geek, A Video Game Musician and a young highschool student. He lives in Beverly Hills, California, known for its hot sand beaches, busy bustling city streets and its groovy Groove & Beverly Hills Mall. There’s a little known fact that there are four girls who’re in reality, the three spies of the World Organization of Human Protection or W.O.O.H.P. And a lesser known fact, he has a job in the Groove at a local half cafe-half arcade called Arcade Mania who lets people play many types of games from arcade games to handheld console and home console games and to serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert or drink beverages. Due to the inflation back from his old home, Miami, he tried to make every play safely and pay to play games but his apartment was too expensive to pay the rent. As a highschooler, he was facing the life of a hopeless romantic. But… what would happen when he meets 4 girls who work for W.O.O.H.P. and warps into a new adventure? Disclaimer: Important! Just for a disclaimer, I do not own all of this. All of the characters, images, and everything else belong to the rightful owners. All rights reserved. Words: 1072, Chapters: 2/2, Language: English Fandoms: Super Mario & Related Fandoms, Sonic the Hedgehog (Video Games), Pac-Man (Video Games), Totally Spies, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild/Tears of the Kingdom, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 (Video Game), Pocket Monsters | Pokemon - All Media Types, Crash Bandicoot (Video Games), Spyro the Dragon (Video Games 1998-2005), Donkey Kong Country, Donkey Kong (Video Games), Fire Emblem Series, Kirby (Video Games), Scooby Doo - All Media Types, Mario Kart (Video Games), Rockman | Mega Man - All Media Types, 大逆転裁判 | Dai Gyakuten Saiban | The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles (Video Games), Banjo-Kazooie (Video Games), WarioWare (Video Games), Wario Land (Video Games), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TV 1987), Marvel, DCU, Splatoon, One Piece (Anime & Manga), Dragon Ball, Fairy Tail, Akame ga Kill! (Anime & Manga), Metroid Series, Dragon Quest Series, 悪魔城ドラキュラ | Castlevania (Video Games), Paper Mario Series (Video Games), Biohazard | Resident Evil (Gameverse), Devil May Cry (Gameverse), Kingdom Hearts (Video Games), Cuphead (Video Game), Undertale (Video Game), Yooka-Laylee (Video Game), Rayman (Video Games), Raving Rabbids Rating: Not Rated Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: F/M, Multi Characters: Clover (Totally Spies), Alex (Totally Spies), Sam (Totally Spies), Princess Peach (Nintendo), Princess Daisy (Nintendo), Princess Rosalina (Nintendo), Britney (Totally Spies), Stella (Totally Spies), Gabriella (Totally Spies), Carmen (Totally Spies), Princess Elise (Sonic the Hedgehog), Zelda (Legend of Zelda) Relationships: Reader/Harem Additional Tags: Crossovers & Fandom Fusions, Harems, Male Protagonist, Reader-Insert, Adventure & Romance, Action/Adventure, Action & Romance, Romantic Comedy, Comedy, Multiple Crossovers, Hurt/Comfort, Cross-Posted on Wattpad, Inspiration, Inspired by Fanfiction, Inspired by Fanart, Fantasizing read it on AO3 at https://archiveofourown.org/works/55449802

#ao3feed #ao3undertalefeed #fanfic #undertale #undertale-fanfic

[kimuumik]

Heyyy 🙃

Im sorry for not posting anything - kinda had an writers block 🥲

But no worries^^

Today I’ll do probably one of my biggest Drabble ever- [prob should cut it into 2 or more parts-]

With random characters [ofc I’ll set the fandom beside it-]

So let’s begin :D

Winter drabble’s bec I didn’t post anything in a while (pt.1)

Cuddling with characters:)

Ccino [undertale/Undertale au’s]

Ooh lucky getting to cuddle with this sweetheart ^^

Ccino had an hard day organising his cafe and taking care of his lil brother-

After the cafe finally closed he puts papyrus into bed while walking to the small living room-

You already being on the couch he will join you-

You both probably will cuddle on an couch while watching an movie (can either be seen platonic or romantic-)

Having probably a lot of fluffy blankets and cushions everywhere-

Maybe even a cup of hot choco or something else-

Like I’m rn actually wishing it could be real 🙏

Pure Vanilla [Cookie run kingdom]

Pure Vanilla? I mean I kinda simp for him

[dammit I’m simping for a COOKIE-]

But I actually think that it sort of goes like this?

Pure Vanilla is an ancient hero AND an king of his own kingdom-

He’ll probably get noticed everywhere he goes and also need to keep the kingdom under his control…

When the day finally end he was torn apart due the busy day-

He’ll arrive at you’re house because instead of going to his own castle he goes to yours

Its just so much more cozy and comfortable-

You’ll probably idk am doing something like watching tv when you suddenly hears a plop beside you-

You both probably had an pretty busy day so you guys silently just cuddle while continue watching tv.

Izuku midoriya [MHA/BNHA/Boku no hero/my hero academia]

[Pro hero deku au]

Izuku just had an hard day at work fighting many villains and recusing many people.

Ofc getting stopped by the press everytime he won an battle.

Getting many small injuries but refuses to stay at the hospital any longer when he can go to you-

So he does-

You’re probably pretty angry at him and have an whole discussion about how he should’ve stayed at the hospital for the care-

He practically only hear like uhh .. 0,01 % from you’re whole speech before just dragging you to the couch ( with ofc gentle care- )

Before cuddling you while falling asleep

You’ll just let it happen and soon you join him too-

Dream [Undertale/Undertale au’s]

This amazing ball of sunshine is the best to cuddle with^^

Lol he’ll probably try to make sure after you’re day that you have an positive mindset

Won’t even let you have any negativity and if there is one he’ll probably get rid of it like-

You wanted hot chocolate instead of tea? He’ll get it-

Lmao even if he had an very tiring day he’ll probably would try everything in his BONE to make you feel better ^^

You may even choose the film it even doesn’t matter if it’s Horror or thriller However if you do get negative feelings due that he’ll probably try to convince you to put on another film that isn’t too negative-

Kfc squad (platonic) [Undertalexdeltarune crossover]

Well let’s see it’s weekend and after a whole week of Hell- I mean school you’ve been invited by you’re bestfriend Kris ^^

You’ve decided to go because why not? And since it was going to be an sleepover you took you’re necessarity and all-

Finally arriving there you knocked on the door while freezing in the cold night-

When suddenly soft but fast footsteps came and the door opened.

There you see the younger sibling of Kris

I introduce you…:Frisk :D

You came in and placed you’re stuff in the hall before getting grabbed by Frisk who dragged you to the living room where you saw Kris sitting on a chair all tied up while Chara was just circleling around them-

After that ‘eventful’ greeting you all played some games and when it was really late you all decided to watch an horror film

Wich ended you right here…

Stuck in a cushion fort with many blankets while watching the film while the popcorn and soda was long forgotten-

Three people cuddling you and each other while sleeping-

The problem is… how do you get out of this?

Kalluto Zoldyck (platonic) [HXH]

Kalluto is an sweet child yet surprisingly fast too who you’ve once meeted while walking in the forest

You two became pretty close friends after years as kalluto still kept sneaking away towards you

You one time invited him to you’re house an had pretty much fun like playing video games and trying to cook-

So today you’re school week is finished as you’ve invited kalluto again (btw forgot to mention but you’re homealone and around 8/10 years old)

When he arrived you both played alot of games but after a while you’ve began being tired as you and kalluto both decided to just rest for a while wich leaded to a cuddle session and both of you fell asleep within the cushion fort

Illumi Zoldyck [HXH]

You’ve been an very interesting human-

Illumi kinda claimed you as his s/o

And let’s be honest this guy Isn’t good at detecting emotions or giving comfort at all-

But no worries he’ll try to relax on the couch with you

So when you do fall asleep in his suprisingly warm arms he’ll probably won’t try to move at all-

Maybe even pulling you a lil bit closer o:

Killua Zodlyck [HXH]

(Yes this could be viewed romantically but just as a small cute couple moments-)

Killua Zodlyck? Alr let’s see :)

After travelling with killua,alluka and gon around the world for years you all grown really fond for each other especially killua towards you-

You,killua and gon are all the same age and alluka/nanika were ofc a lip bit younger.

It seems like gon wanted to spend some time with Alluka and nanika to show around the new city while you and killua decided to stay- (somehow-)

Killua also seemed more tired as he and you sat on the couch watching a movie-

Before you could ask a weight came on you’re shoulder and when you turn to look you saw killua sleeping on ur shoulder.

You’ve just sat silent till the end of the movie cuddling killua before falling asleep too

Harley Quinn [DC]

Harley Quinn yay another one I simp for somehow-

Harley Quinn and joker have an pretty toxic relationship and it’s not like Harley didn’t notice it- she just choose to ignore it because of love-

Well until the breakup where she was heartbroken-

So here we are in you’re small rented apartment while the night overtook the sky

Tv was on and many ice cream cans were thrown to the side while you tried you’re best to calm Harley down-while ofc cursing the Joker out-

After calming down a bit you sat down beside her tired as hell from running up and down you’re apartment (two story) and getting her every snacks that you could find before she would continue screaming at the Joker-

Harley also too have finally calmed down as she sat besides you on the couch staring at the tv across the room. Before grabbing you’re arm and hug you.

When you tried to get away from the cuddle that you’ve got from Harley you’ve noticed that she was asleep already so you did the next best thing-

You grabbed an blanket and a cushion and placed it for her before you tried to get up too you were dragged into a cuddle session with Harley as you’ve decided why not?

So with that you both sleep through the dark cold winter night

Bakugou katsuki [Mha/bnha/myheroacademia/bokunoheroacademia]

Bakugou katsuki came in his dorm after an busy day at school and having no energy left after yelling at ‘deku’ before aizawa and all might decided to get them out of eachother reach-

When he came in he didn’t mean to have you made an whole cushion fort on his bed while blankets were everywhere but decided to go with it because again a pretty hard day-

He just grabbed you and placed you on his lap before sleeping too-

Bonus: you’ll probably get yelled at tomorrow morning for sneaking in his apartment-😆

That’s all for today^^ I might do another one of these multi fandom Drabble lol

Anyways peace out of lazy author ^^

#kalluto deserve more attention #kris dreemurr #x reader #readers gender not mentioned #platonic #multi fandom Drabble #I was motivated at first but then I slept and now I’m too tired #Im going to edit later #lazy author #im lazy #Undertale #undertale aus #dsmp #crk pure vanilla cookie #cookie run kingdom #x you #cuddling #hxh x reader #illumi x reader #hxh illumi #hxh killua #killua hunter x hunter #kalluto is underrated #hxh kalluto #frisk dreemurr #chara dreemurr #kfc squad #kfc x reader #kris

[animefreak1145]

For Whom the Bell Tolls(Adler x Bell!Reader)

Previous Next

Chapter 4| I Am Thee and Thou Art Me

Chapter Summary:

The action's you do is for survival and no other reason.

You don't understand other's actions though.

Cold War Reset AU| Undertale Reset AU

Warnings: Torture, Brainwashing, Manipulation, Possible Non-Con/Dub-Con, Trauma

Chapter Warnings: Mental/Emotional Anguish, Toxicity, Self-Loathing

A/N: Bottled beer is liquid hope and you love pictures.

Footnote: Translations at the bottom.

“Bell” Second Life 08:16 | February 26, 1981 West Berlin, Anita Wronski Cafe

“Looks like you’ve met death in the face, Bell. Rough night?” Lazar questioned, poking fun as they grabbed breakfast for everyone in line.

You rubbed your eye before pinching between your brows.

“Something like that,” you said tiredly as you  looked around the small cafe. Distantly taking note of Lazar’s statement with a dry smirk. “Didn’t sleep well.”

Small metal tables inside with metal chairs to match, both with interesting swirls for patterns making up the surfaces. There were more outside, the cafe a bit cramped in the first place even with just three tables again the wall. The smell of sweet German pastries and salty breakfast flooded your nose, making you lick your lips despite yourself not being hungry yet.

You were already up an hour beforehand, wondering to yourself how you and Adler could be in the car once more into the safehouse. Only to ‘volunteer’ when Lazar knocked on your door to help him grab food for everyone, apparently Adler already gone and left to the safehouse.

You internally frowned at that, you’re not sure why before you felt grateful. You would rather not talk about. . .whatever happened in his car. Which was nothing.

The flash of a clenched hand on the wheel as if holding back and a taut jaw came to the forefront of your mind.

Marionette’s should stick with their role.

It was nothing.

Lazar snorted, making you turn towards him as they both stepped up to the cashier. Lazar pointing towards the dessert window of what to get in a box as you spoke in German to the woman. Several more items of breakfast were ordered that will take some time to make, so they moved to sit to the only open table inside the quaint café.

“You drunk what—four cups of coffee yesterday, Bell? And looking at a bunch of nonsense for hours as if your brain is steel and your eyes can’t melt out of your head.” What a nice vision. Lazar took a sip of the German coffee he got for himself, eyes lighting up at the taste before looking back at you. “All that must’ve been stuck in your head and probably even in your dreams. Had any floating codes flying around your mind as you slept by any chance?”

That’s not quite right, but you’ll take the excuse handed to you as you shrugged. Lifting your own cup of coffee that you doused in three creams and two sugar’s, humming for a moment in agreement to Lazar at the strong and bold taste before taking another one.

“You can say that. I would have kept going and working until I got tired. You would call me a night owl so to say.”

“You seem pretty alright to me now,” Lazar observed as he leaned back in his chair.

“I have an impressive work ethic. Better than others I think. I’m used to going to sleep late and waking up early.” You can infer that your body is used to this schedule, harsh and strict work ethic that you must’ve gotten when you worked with Perseus. “Although, I admit I’m not very hungry right now. You chose a bad partner in this.”

“But you volunteered,” Lazar stared ever so seriously and another sip to his coffee. You could see he was fighting a smile.

You huffed through your nose, shaking your head.

“Yes. How could I have forgotten. Like I did for Kraus.” Lazar slightly winced at the reminder of how you got kidnapped, muttering an apology which you waved away. “It’s fine. I was the best to do that anyways.”

“You sure are pretty accepting with all this work. Just asking and taking files like nothing, ” Lazar rose a brow, you couldn’t tell if it was for being impressed or disbelief. You didn’t say anything to that, the both of you just sipping on their coffee and waiting for their meals to take to the car before heading back to work. You’ll walk past the center table easily and just sit in your chosen desk. Maybe get a lecture about professionalism which you will just absently nod at since you will make yourself feel numb if you have to, just to get away from the man in any way. Lazar paused at your far away look, your cup by your mouth yet you’re not drinking, instead of looking at a simple framed painting of Germany’s hills at the wall. ". . .As much as the boss man likes to act like it, we're not machines,” you blinked out of your reverie, your eyes flicking towards Lazar. “You're not either. Even though you understand numbers with little pattern and words that would have no connection normally—be able to put it together and have it make sense."

You blinked once more, albeit slower.

"I...I know I'm not a machine."

"Do you? Acting like you don't sleep and eat, besides those seeds of yours like you're a bird yesterday outside of the one meal I brought you. Do you sing too?" You released a surprised laugh at that, short as it was with lips still up. "That's better. Thought your lips stay flat like that. I swear, it seems both you and Adler are obsessed with Perseus. See why you're his protege now."

You were struck at Lazar’s words, focusing on him with a frown. The implications that the both of you were similar making you look down.

“Guess we're two peas in a pod.”

You mumbled the last bit, as if to yourself as you lowered your cup on the table.

"What? Oh. . .guess you could say that. But remember this Bell," He throws a pastry at you as you quickly catch it before it met your face(you would always have to be prepared for that before), blinking down at your hands before looking at the kind faced Lazar. "Lighten up. We'll get him so don't push yourself so much. And eat real food too! Seeds! As if that's food."

Your mind showed you moments from your previous life, Lazar always teasing and making you eat and try as much as different food as possible. Away from your decryption tasks as he would wave your plate under your nose as if to entice you.

“No point in being greedy,” The kind man would say, wry smile playing his lips with a tone to match, after letting you try food from his plate, even encouraging it. “Memories—memories with food should be savored and light and new dishes should be enjoyed.”

You thought of when you first found out the truth, still recovering from wounds of Cuba as you sat—away, away from that gurney—and guilt with Lazar—should’ve been quicker, perhaps you would’ve been kinder, kindness is a lie—and asking Park if Lazar knew. About you. About this. MK-Ultra. Everything.

You stared at the Israeli man for a moment before smiling, a mischievous thing. Genuine. Like the man in front of you.

"I am smaller than you, it's enough for me."

"Now you're just poking fun."

Lazar was always kind.

Oh, how he played his role perfectly for you.

At this point, you’ll take what you can get and stop wondering with him. You’ll go mad.

Foolish американский щеноk. The collar around your neck has choked all the trust for others in you.

Best, you think as Lazar easily teased you again, an unreadable look in your eyes as you take another sip of your drink. To just not feel at all.

The breakfast the both of you ordered came, Lazar grabbing the bag as movement behind the counter caught your eye. A worker bringing in a new dessert towards the other German sweets, yellow and round and looking spongy similar to a cake but with a crust like a pie. You walked back up to the counter, pointing and asking the worker in fluent German what was that. Her replying with a smile that it is their pineapple kasekuchen, the German’s take in a cheesecake.

You turned your gaze to the sweet, lost in thought before raising your hand with two fingers up to order, the worker nodding.

You grabbed the box and walked up to the curious Lazar by the door, his brow arched as if asking a silent question. As the both of you exited the bakery and walked towards the car, you still not saying anything and only periodically glancing down at the box with the kasekuchen, even tightening your grip a tad around it when the crowd around them got a little too close, Lazar decided to speak.

“You know,” he began, and you took note that he sounds amused. Almost knowing. You pretended to stay oblivious. “There was this mission I was on in Thailand with Adler a few years back.” At the mention of Thailand, your memory of yesterday in Adler’s car still fresh, you looked towards Lazar as they walked. “Something covert and recon with the usual stray chance of a suicide bomber. The standard for our great unpredictable job. Keeps us in our toes.” His tone was a mix of sarcasm and easygoing, as if suicide bombing in a country was like if he stated it’s going to rain again. Where is he going with this? “Anyways, when we weren’t doing that—we’d stop at this corner store near the safehouse we were in. Boss man would always buy his precious cigarettes, leaves the other stuff we need to actually sustain us to me. Except, he would get something else too. To eat and I always thought each time I saw that, that Adler is human after all.” He glanced down at you, one brow raised. “Do you happen to know what it is?”

You huffed, turning your head away. Them reaching the car and you going to the passenger side as Lazar stood by the driver’s side—still unopened and leaning his crossed arms on the top of the car.

“You sure like playing games today,” you dodged with quirked lips, shuffling the box in your hands to hold it in one as you moved your free one to open the door. “Volunteering me again and calling me a bird and now having me guess what a man like Adler would get besides his addiction. You want to talk about machines, look at him.”

How the puppet lies so so sweetly.

Lazar hummed, deciding to open the car and the both of you going in and settling as they placed the bags down by you to make sure none of it spills. After they pulled out from the space, Lazar spoke once more, offhandedly and an interesting turn of the lips.

“Pineapples sure are sweet and tart. Pretty good too.”

You don’t say anything.

Just made sure your hold on all the boxes of food for everyone didn’t tip over as Lazar would turn. If your grip with the kasekuchen was firmer than the others, you didn’t notice.

Feed the god and you might get a reward.

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯  ◁ ◁ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You squinted behind your closed eyes, shifting in your uncomfortable sitting position in the foxhole with only dirt and soil to help cushion you within the trench like pit. The crickets were loud, deafening in the jungle with a periodic squawk or call from a bird deep within. You shifted, your M-16 moving down in your lap from the movement  despite your lucky green cloth gloves holding it as you blearily opened your eyes, blinking them against the darkness until they got used to it. The half moon helping somewhat in giving light as well as the fireflies flying around in the dance where only they heard the music.

They were still on their way to Hue City, night coming upon them quicker than expected. The jungles are harsh and thick, especially with the route they’re taking due to their stealth and recon mission, but the planned route was still underestimated. It did not help the planned foxhole they were going to got covered, completely useless and the time to make another one is time they don’t have. Luckily, they were able to find another, although this one was tighter. Two small foxholes that barely fit the five of you, hence having to sit basically in a ball against the wall of dirt behind you.

All of you were doing one hour intervals in keeping watch, the watcher usually standing up in the foxhole in order to watch their surroundings. And if an attacker did come, they could duck within the foxhole for cover.

You felt like you should’ve woken up for your  shift already.

Your eyes focused next to you, finding the spot where Larson was supposed to be standing empty. You hastily stood, pack heavy against your back as it tensed in protest at the sudden weight, your hands tight against the M-16 and about to call the other’s names at the missing soldier only to stop.

Your standing position giving you new access to see more besides the sky above you, surrounded by brush and green foliage of all types with high grass upon the ground. Larson sat, just a few inches away from the foxhole a little to your right, staring up in the starlit sky. He turned his head towards you at the sound, seeing you were awake before turning his head back, as if you weren’t there.

“Larson,” you whispered, not wanting to wake up the others in the foxhole next to yours. When Larson didn’t move so the two of you could switch, you reached out to tug on his pack on his back. “You can’t be out in the open like this. You don’t know if VC or NVA might come by in the area.”

“Let them,” Larson said brazenly but just as low, making you release his pack in surprise. “Besides, there’s a bunch of shit around here to cover us. Even this grass is kinda covering my face. Nothing will happen. Now, go back to sleep and leave me be.”

You stared, before sighing. Carefully looking around once, twice, before coming out of the foxhole as quietly as you could—using the open holes on the dirt walls to place your feet to get out. You sat by Larson, who ignored you and went back to staring up at the twinkling sky.

You took a moment to stare at it too. This far in the boonies, away from cities and cars and just filled with wildlife, it has a sort of bewitching air around it. Despite the loud chirp of the crickets, the call of the birds, and how one would sometimes have to smack any open skin for stubborn mosquitos—the trees, the grass, all the greenery that looked dark in the night outside of being lit by the fireflies and the stars and moon above. You were struck once more, just how beautiful this country was. With it’s natural serenity as the moonlight not covered by clouds touched lightly upon to aid somewhat with the darkness but not as much as a flashlight would do, still, the moon did its best even if it was just at it’s half tonight. The stars were there to support it and you wish you learned more about constellations than your books, you’re sure you could spot all of them and weave stories of your own instead of reading them.

“You know,” your attention shifted to Larson, who still gazed up as he spoke, lost in thought and appearing away from here as he spoke quietly. He does not wish to wake the others it seems. “I don’t know if you remember me telling you this, but I grew up on a farm. Small. Not very fancy and it was just me and my family—Ma, Pa, and my two brothers and sister. Out just taking care of our cattle and our horses. Middle of nowhere, we would have to drive about an hour to get to a good grocery store that isn’t just a corner store or gas station. I hated it more that the closest school was about the same length. . . But what could I do? Needed an education, at least some, and than spend the rest of my life worried about a farm. With all it’s cow and horse shit, waking up before the sun does and at the end of the day you smell like all the shit you cleaned up.” He ended, sounding tired and yet with the bitter words it had an iota of equal bitter amusement.

You maintained your silence, instead moving your gaze back and forth around them. Not looking at how Larson’s lips quirked begrudgingly, head tilted up towards the silent night.

“. . .there were a few good things though. When me and my brothers and sister were done with work, and the moon was out—we’d head out to where the cattle were. Laying down on the grass without a care, why bother? We were already dirty with sweat and dirt and shit. And we’d look up—and than—“ Larson reached an arm out, as if to reach the sky, only to clench his hand and put it down back by his lap before gripping his MP40 hard where you could spot how white his knuckles were. “. . .laying down, in the grass, in the middle of nowhere, with just a dark black sky over you. . .it felt like it could swallow us. Whole. Not caring about how we looked or smelled or how old we were. . .it made us feel small. Yet huge. If we pretended enough, we could act like we can really touch the moon. The stars. I guess it just showed all of us there was more, than this little farm. With it’s shit and it’s smell and being in the middle of nowhere. The black sky might just eat us to put us out of our childish misery. Maybe that’s also why we kept going back, not just cause of fucking beautiful it was, but maybe. . .”

Larson trailed off and you decided to speak up, softly. Not wishing to break this odd aura around them, because this was more than talking about how small a human’s life is.

“‘If you gaze long into the abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you,’” you quoted, Larson cocking his head slightly and glancing at your from the corner of his eyes. You released a small fleeting smile. “It’s a quote. By a German philosopher called Friedrich Nietzsche. A depressing guy but. . . I feel like his words fit. The abyss swallowing. . . perhaps it is more you become one with it. A fusion. Where you don’t know where you begin and the abyss ends.”

Larson turned his head away, grabbing a handful of some grass and pulling as he moved his eyes back up.

“Who knows? Maybe. . . shit,” Larson dryly chuckled, “maybe, I should’ve stuck with staring up at my family’s farm home—staring up this abyss right here but there instead. Than maybe. . .you know, I would say sappy shit in my letters to her?” You didn’t ask who ‘her’ was, you could fill in the blanks as you wisely kept silent. “All words about the moon and stars and we were staring at the same one so I wasn’t that far away cause we stared up at the same thing’s. That she had stars in her eyes and if I looked up, I could see her in them. That she pulled me to her like the moon does water and just—shit. Fuck. ”

Larson hissed, putting his head to his hands. His shoulders slightly shook, you could barely tell in the darkness but you imagine he is holding himself back.

“I loved her,” Larson said, voice all cracked and broken as his breath hitched. “I love her still. And she’s—she’s leaving. What will I have when I come back? Go back? I—there’s nothing. We were. . .I went to war for  her . Our  country .”

You kept your mouth shut. Letting him release his sorrow and emotionally charged words that made zero sense such as that. You learned, especially on the beach night, it is not wise to depend on another’s support when it comes to actions of war.

You didn’t even give Larson the full quote earlier either. You do not think he needed the full one, but you know yourself what Nietzsche was going for. You think Adler might like it actually.

Eventually, you managed to put Larson back into the foxhole as you took watch by him. Standing in the foxhole as you did your shift. A few minutes officially in however, you took note of noise in the foxhole next to you. You turned your head, noticing Adler’s head was out, helmet on and war paint slightly losing their color. You can see his stubble starting to really come in now. He had his shades on, even at this time, in this darkness—but you could tell he was staring at you. Something clicked as you lightly sighed.

“How much of that did you hear?”

“Enough.”

You nodded, turning your eyes around their surroundings with your M-16 in front of you and gripped at the ready just in case.

“You left something out,” Adler said after a while, voice low to not wake the others that it sounded husky to your ears. You glanced at him, brow raising questioningly as Adler’s lips lifted to a knowing smirk. “I don’t know much, but my high school education isn’t too laughable I think. I know that quote. You missed the whole beginning and just gave him the end.”

You blinked, before shrugging as you peered up at the sky for a moment.

“He didn’t need the beginning. Just the end.”

“Some might call that yellow journalism. Or lying.”

“Others might call it wise,” you retorted lightly. “He didn’t need to know it. It wouldn’t have helped. So why give it? Besides, we know it. We’re the only type of people who need it.”

Adler hummed, whether it was in agreement or in thought, you couldn’t tell. You took note of him shifting, hands a little fidgety around his M60 and you felt sympathy swell in you. He hasn’t been able to smoke since the start of this mission, having to be cautious with any type of smoke. You don’t know personally, but you know that the craving for cigarette’s were mind consuming if you did not have one to quell it. Perhaps this conversation was a welcome distraction.

You wonder if this night is just you going to be playing silent therapist.

“Do you think Larson should’ve heard it?”

Adler answered as he kept his dutiful watch around, him facing the area behind you as you focused in front.

“No. He just needed someone to listen. Poor bastard should ask for R&R after this. I’ll grant it to him, maybe he could go to Australia and just wind down there for a week.” He scratched at his face, the war paint surely feeling a little off since he first put it on. “Forget about all this. All of it. The States. The war. He needs it. Hell, we all do.”

Your lips formed a teasing smile.

“Even shadows and monsters need a smoke?”

Adler chuckled easily.

“Everyone needs a smoke as far as I’m concerned. Maybe less people will act like they’re one push away till they make a shitstorm the rest of us need to clean up. But sure, kid, ” he half shrugged, focusing on the sky above with all its celestial like bodies. “Larson might’ve been onto something though with what he was saying.”

“Which part?”

Adler chose silence as his answer, staring up for another moment or two before huffing and turning his attention back onto the ground.

The two of you stayed guarding for a few more moments. You didn’t bother asking Adler why he was up and you had this watch, just like how he didn’t seem to bother to order you to go to sleep. You felt like once more, there was an understanding between you two. Still though, it didn’t stop you from the question bubbling in your throat.

“Since you know the quote,” Adler hummed lightly, showing he was listening. “What do you think Nietzsche was referring to, that the reader itself hasn’t fought with other monsters yet or from experience because he is a monster to not have other’s fight him?”

Adler scoffed quietly, amused.

“Just cause I know the quote doesn’t mean I constantly wonder about it’s meaning, Bell.”

“Humor me.”

“I thought I told you earlier I’m not here to spoil you.” You threw him a sheepish grin, Adler sighing and shaking his head as his expression turned inquisitive with how he pressed his lips together for a moment. “It’s a warning. That’s how I always saw it. But it’s not one we need like you said earlier, kid.  We don’t need it.”

You didn’t ask anymore. Because as you thought more into it, he was right.

Nietzsche wrote a warning, to the innocent reader and the oblivious society that put emphasis on morals and truth that he did not agree with.

‘Battle not with monsters, lest you become a monster. And if you gaze into the abyss, the abyss gazes into you.’

Monsters do not fret about what they already are. Just as they are not worried if the abyss ends with them or if it begins.

“Get ready, kid.” Adler said much later as they all slowly woke the others up to move, his eyes squinting behind his glasses as he stared past the trees, the bushes, and the greenery as the beginning of dawn started to rise. “It’s going to be a shit show in a few hours.”

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▷ ▷ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

“Bell”

Second Life

14:02 | February 26, 1981

CIA SAFEHOUSE E9, “DIE LANDEBAHN”

You see yourself as one with patience.

When it comes to this sort of line of work, it is required. A sort of fortitude and composure that not all can be able to acquire but must be needed for this—for lives at stake based on whether you can put up an act or have the tact of an eagle capturing a snake, all sharp claws and silent feathers against the hissing strike. ты хочешь быть американцем товарищ.

“The two most powerful warriors are patience and time,” as said by one one of your favorites, Leo Tolstoy, from one of the best works in history: War and Peace.

You recall last time—stop clinging, you stupid dog—when you stood outside the safehouse in the cold with your head to the book, Adler stepping out and taking note of your book with a cocked brow. Stating his surprise at your book choice as you mumbled something or other as you read, that it is an integral book. You even stating the same quote back to him, a surprise to you when Adler didn’t know of it. Listening as you explained it with a flick of his lighter and calm inhales and exhales of his addiction, showing off where the quote was as he leaned in slightly. Your heart pounding as his warmth was felt without even touching, than a brush of his shoulder to your back as he drew closer. Than it was gone.

“All grim thoughts and wise words with you, eh Bell?” Amused. A fleeting turn of the lips that stayed longer and a gaze that lingered as he stared through you under those shades. “Make sure you take a breather when you raise your nose for air from your books. Can’t do this without you.”

He would tease, but didn’t stop you from taking your reading breaks outside for fresh air. And he’d always ask, curiosity in his expression when you’d show him a line each time. You thought it was special. Their own little thing where you would raise your book and he would lean to you and they would touch.

“Bell, open the door.”

It was just cruel kindness.

Patience, you are using it to your fullest. You can do what you must and see if your actions can work up to something—all your effort and hard work being seen as a good little tool.

Though, time—time is something you may not have. Unless you make sure you’re loyal.

You were quick to drop off the breakfast on the center table, ignoring Adler’s rose brow as you moved. The pineapple kasekuchen in their rightful place. You avoided and didn’t speak outside a quick “good morning” to everyone else and went to work, breakfast by you whenever you got truly hungry.

You didn’t think about why you bought the dessert. Outside the rationalization it shows your loyalty. Perhaps a peace offering to ignore what happened the night prior. You didn’t think much about that at all.

американский щеноk.

Until he called you over to his desk with a wave of his hand, your chest thundering with your eyes wide as you wondered if he’ll say anything. Take you aside in private to talk. About last night or the sweet, you’re not sure. Only for him to motion for you to sit, tapping his knuckle against the file on the desk. You took note the box of the kasekuchen wasn’t there anymore(must’ve already ate it or threw it away) as you blinked, slowly sitting in the seat across from him as he slid the file towards you as he asked your opinion on it.

You scanned, mind wandering and flying, before you glanced up at him. His favorite mahogany leather over him that is second skin, a lighter shade of blue for his collared shirt today under him and his mouth free of a cigarette as well as his hands. Those aviators still on his head, a part of him. Sort of like the beanie—ski—mask over your head as he looked down at another report in front of him. As if he didn’t call you over from your desk to his to help with a file when he could’ve just left it on your desk. As if you didn’t cross a line—you always cross the line, over, behind, or creating a completely new one to do what you must like he does whatever it takes but it was wrong, you are no saint, pitiful mutt—yesterday with your words and questions.

A hand reached towards the file in front of you, knuckle tapping twice, more force this time.

You focused back on the file, only to see Adler already took his hand back. Continuing to read as he patiently waited for your consensus on the file before you.

You were struck than how he’ll handle this, understanding dawning on you as your gaze focused and turned to the file below you and picking it up.

If he wishes to pretend as if it never occurred, it’s fine with you. It’s best either way for both of you. You have too many worries already, Adler included. Best to leave certain things out your mind about the man lest you’ll get clouded. You’re trying to survive. Not get caught up in and tangled in mind games.

You spotted in the corner of your eye Adler give a ghost of a nod, the tiniest tip of the head, imperceptible to others but you knew. He gave a similar one when you captured Volkov, walking up to you with a calm swagger and gloved hands around his weapon, as he moved his head in approval. Such a good girl to be happy with just a nod. Satisfied. He’s satisfied. He knows you understood. Understood him.

“You know me too well.”

“Guess we’re two peas in a pod.”

“I need Bell.”

You raised the file closer, over your mouth formed in a subconscious echo of a pleased smile. You didn’t even feel it. Nor did you feel electric blue eyes behind shades glance towards you before turning back to his work—the silent agreement to keep what happened last night to themselves written and signed without the two of you having to open your mouths.

Coward, you wanted to snarl. To who, you’re not sure. You just focused on what Adler gave you. You’ll need to have Adler let you live so you’ll need to not just be a perfect asset to the others but a person to him.

You have to do what you must.

“Damaged goods.”

You have to.

“You remembered.”

You flicked your eyes towards him, file momentarily forgotten. He didn’t look up from his own file, continuing to read it with the expression he always has when concentrated—a hint of pressed lips that reveals his dimples and brows lowered than usual where it would be difficult to see due to his shades. You would think that mania has truly taken a hold of you, with it’s dark tentacles filled with dark thoughts and mental anguish or rather slithering and multiplying vines where Lykourgos grew mad due to Dionysus’ vengeance except for you it is with choking collars and stifling leashes and cutting strings. He looked as if he didn’t speak at all. All the quiet focus of a war hardened CIA agent that didn’t have a ring on his finger but was married to his job with a badge to show all the same.

But you knew his voice. As if it was your own.

“We’ve known each other for years.”

“Fought together. Bled together. Been through Hell in Vietnam together.”

“We got a job to do.”

“ B e l l,  o p e n  t h e  d o o r . ”

The poor американская сука loves pain like a drug.

“I wasn’t sure what you would,” Adler spoke again, your eyes focusing on him once more. His head still was tilted down and a little to the side, shades facing the paper but you believed he glanced towards you. “The coma did a number on you with your memories. I know you’ve been saying it’s only been about Vietnam but you never specified about what. Or if you happened to remember anything else.” He didn’t state it like a question but he might as well have.

Of course he would ask. Why wouldn’t he?

Nonetheless, you knew what he was referring to in his earlier statement. He ate them. You picked up your file with a small huff.

“Hard to forget, Adler. Of course I would remember. You would hold those cans like a lifeline,” your lips lifted at the memories, of Adler trading with others if he must to get his precious golden ambrosia that would appease him similar to his cigarettes. You kept your lips up despite the quick recall the memories were fake—the trading of trash, the quiet understanding to not speak of it, of beautiful Vietnam foliage and unforgettable talks—just as you glanced at him and continued easily. “Glad you liked them. Wasn’t sure if you would. As for other memories. . . it’s still only been with Vietnam. I haven’t gotten anything else.” Adler hummed, cocking his head a tad before your lips formed more of a smile that you felt. “But at least I still know what I like or don’t. Can’t imagine a clean slate.”

“That’s normal,” Adler said, shades now facing you as you somewhat hid your face with the file. The only thing him being able to see fully was your eyes. “Learn how to calm down and that you can’t take all these shots like you’re a target in a shitty gun range. Might remember more.”

You found yourself snorting, rolling your eyes. Finding dark amusement at his words despite yourself. Perhaps you are growing insane.

“Based on what you told me in the hospital, you would’ve had some holes instead.” The way you said it, it sounds like you still believe it. Like it was real. Dance puppet, dance. You turned up your lips into a semblance of a smirk as you looked over the file towards him. You maintained it even though you think the both of your eyes connected despite the shades hiding. “You don’t have to worry, Adler. I got your back. Always. A few shots is nothing.”

It’s what you would’ve said before. It scares you how much you meant it previously. As if your life was forfeit if it came to having Adler live longer. Nothing else would matter as long as he lived. Nothing. As if the world would come to an end if he fell—the only one that could hold it and keep it straight.

Perhaps he is Atlas after all. . .

The loyal dog with the pretty collar will always protect the master.

Cursed due to his cruelty.

What are you, Russell Adler?

Adler stared at you for a moment, as if assessing your words. Scrutinizing them. He than reached into his jacket, taking out a cigarette and lighting it. Once he did the first drag and released his puff, away from you as you observed the smoke curl around them, he looked back down to the papers on the desk.

“How lucky am I that I got you around than, kid,” he replied, all low and earnest as he took another drag. “Just don’t go dying on me. Can’t have Sims talk to his shrink about something else. He’d be heart broken.”

Adler said that sentence a little louder, so it was no surprise that Sims by the desk put down his magazine and called out.

“I resent that!”

Adler’s lips twitched in response, but kept his gaze down as your heart thundered.

You thought of an explosion to the chest, your heart open and bare for more reasons than you planned. Of soft words to your ear that sounded like regret and something else as you coughed. Of a gentle touch that held you up, hands wandering from your waist to your stomach—stopping just short of a bleeding chest as if they wanted to stop the red—redredredredred—from flowing out but hesitated. An encircling of arms that released heat as you grew cold—you don’t like the cold much anymore—while an expression was carefully guarded with eyes hiding behind a shaded curtain.

You felt your throat tighten. The need for answers to unanswered questions reaching a head.

“Just Sims?” you asked softly, a little breathless and a little confused at said breathlessness.

He glanced up, aviators slightly down and you could barely see his eyes as he exhaled a puff, eyeing you. You staring as his brow lifted for a moment before it settled, an interesting look in your eyes that one might call forlorn. And something else that is dangerous and not meant for monsters who are better alone.

“Maybe another life, kid.”

Mind thine eyes dog, for they show you yearn the impossible.

“You know the answer, Bell. Everyone would be,” Adler leaned slightly back in his chair, cigarette between his fingers in his customary hold between his ring and middle finger. “You’re part of the team. What kind of question is that?”

“You’re still one of us.”

He knows what he’s doing. Just as he knows what you mean.

You bit the inside of your cheek, looking down with squinting eyes at the file. Your hand making it a little wrinkle and you don’t know what you expected. What you’re expecting. He hurts. He pretends. Why would he even answer truthfully when he can dodge and feel less guilt about a hole in you caused by his hand?

He’s—

You felt a nudge against your knee, you looking up in shock with a quick inhale at the unexpected touch. It staying there—his knee, he’s touching you—as you watched Russell tilt his head at you, brow up and lips quirked with a cigarette around it and looking wry and relaxed—what is this, why, what could this be for, why is he doing acts that are pointless yet mean everything when he could just be distant, you are getting worked up over just knees touching, you touch starved little thing—as he motioned his head an iota to the left. Your eyes following the movement to see Park where she was, nearby with her desk and a headphone to one ear but the other still able to listen in despite how naturally quiet you and Adler are with your soft voice and Adler’s low tone.

Park? What does she have to do with anything? And why would Adler of all people care?

You frowned, only for your lips to flatten in realization of her words to you about Adler. To stay away. You now wonder if she did a similar warning to him.

“Insanity breeds insanity as they say.”

You wonder if the pissing match that was imperceptible and the slight tension was more than just two agencies trying to come to an accord.

But why would Park warn Adler?

You glanced back at Adler, who gave a half shrug as if to answer your silent question. It only raised more. You moved your knee back closer to your form and Adler didn’t react as you did so. The both of you turning back to the files that Adler requested your assistance.

Not thinking in the back of your mind of fleeting touches, lingering looks, or a voice to your pounding ear that tinged with remorse even though you couldn’t see his face.

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ◁ ◁ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You and Park just recently finished going through the report you and Woods got from Ukraine. Sims and Lazar were in the back rooms where the gun range was while Park was in the Red Room. Last you checked, Adler was still in his office with a call while Mason and Woods were by the weight lifting equipment and taking turns to work off some steam due to what was discovered. You were putting the findings up on the evidence board with tacks, careful to not stab yourself. You wouldn’t be as concerned if you were wearing your gloves which you put away earlier by your bunk bed, but than again, you’re quite careful with your gloves. Not only because of the quality, but who got the leather gloves for you when you were just recently discharged out of the hospital back in the States.

You smiled, putting the last tack on the board only to have a sudden weight around your shoulders. You widened your eyes, briefly alarmed only to turn your head to see it was a smirking Woods.

“Done? Good! I’ve been holding off till now but it’s time to fucking see what you’re  really  made of Bell.”

You blinked, confused and still reeling at the fact you didn’t sense his approach at all. Your mind will zone out over the littlest of things lately. It concerns you. But it hasn’t been a problem so far out in missions, so you think it’s alright.

“And how exactly I’m going to do that? Thought I showed you enough back in Ukraine.”

At that, Woods laughed as he basically tugged you to where Mason was, who was shaking his head at his friend and shooting you an apologetic look as you just smiled that you were okay with it. Their van door open in the back as well as a table and chairs in front. You took note of the packs of beer and you see what Woods meant as he sat by Mason in the van on the floor, you sitting down and observing as Woods took a hefty gulp of a beer.

“I think I know now. But,” you glanced to where Adler’s office was, “is this wise? Isn’t Hudson coming over here soon?”

Woods slammed his beer down, causing some of it to come out as Mason sighed at the wastefulness.

“Man,  fuck  Hudson!” Woods wiped his chin harshly, irritation coloring his features. “I want to forget about that nutsack for the rest of the day. When he comes, he better not say shit or I’ll punch him again. Maybe with that shit will stop coming out his mouth.”

Mason chuckled, having his own beer in his hand as his eyes wandered to his longtime friend, shifting as he got comfortable in his seat.

“How’s the hand?”

Woods scoffed.

“Pfft. Nothing fancy,” Woods looked at said hand, clenching it as he moved to crack his knuckles as he grinned wildly. “Ready enough, like I said, if Hudson says something smart.” He punched his fist against his hand, muscles flexing noticeable despite his jacket as you couldn’t help but laugh along with Mason.

“I still can’t believe you punched him yesterday,” you spoke up, shaking your head in disbelief. You can’t even imagine anyone punching the intimidating harsh man that is James Hudson. Soon after your discharge, you had to meet with him back in Langley for the mission before all this Perseus business—although you suppose supporting the Polish union Solidarity in fighting back communists have everything to do with Perseus. You don’t understand why the man seems to dislike you so much, especially if the two of you worked briefly before which you sadly can’t remember. He must always be like that with others, Woods doesn’t seem to like or appreciate Hudson’s icy countenance either way. You don’t quite appreciate the man’s secrecy about the nukes, so you see why. “If I even breathe the air wrong around him, I think I will be dead come morning. I don’t think I’m exaggerating.”

“You?” Woods asked, amused incredulity in his tone as he faced you. “The one who basically took out three Heavy’s by your lonesome? Scared of that ball face? You’re shitting me!”

Mason rose his brows as he turned towards you.

“You didn’t say that in the report. You holding out on us, Bell?”

“Right?! Now open a bottle and tell Mason here everything that happened.”

You rose a brow, amusement shining in your eyes, your hand moving to the pack of beer before stopping. The memory of the arcade room making you smile knowingly.

“Everything?”

Woods made a face, cheeks looking an interesting color that Mason caught as he nudged his friend with his elbow.

“What’s she talking about Woods?”

“Nothing! Jesus Christ Bell, didn’t know you could be a little shit like Adler can.”

The words bounced off you easily, already used to the man’s vulgar personality from the mission and even before the mission to go over details, as you shrugged, smirking as Mason kept pushing Woods on what happened as Woods would grumble or drink his beer to avoid answering. At Adler’s name however, you looked back at the office, slightly biting the inside of your lip.

Your breaks thus far outside of eating has just been reading your books or a quick game in the back room. Never for a drink like Lazar would do with Sims and Park at times. Adler, at least what you know of, hasn’t drunk and just has stuck with his cigarettes. You don’t even remember the last time  you  drank. All you know is that you like it.

But. . . you’re not sure if Adler would approve. You’re always focused on your work and great at it, he depends on you to maintain your focus to catch Perseus.

You subconsciously put your hand in your jacket, feeling the polaroid as you thought.

Woods noticed your apprehension and called out to you, you turning your head back.

“Whatcha fuckin’ worried about? You’ve been working all day from those codes and whatever the shit you put on the board. I don’t think Adler would want you to be worked dry where you don’t even think straight.”

“Only booze can do that,” Mason added helpfully.

Woods nodded, looking too serious it was almost comical since they were just trying to persuade you to drink.

“What he said.”

You took a moment before you shrugged, grabbing a beer and opening it as you stated that you guess you could drink with legends. Woods huffing at you, soon calling you cocky in realization as to why you made fighting Heavy’s not a big deal and not impressed with him. Mason seeming to find it funny as the three of you drank and talked about the mission more freely and colorful words with Woods. You did slightly flush when Woods told Mason you were a nerd for playing a quick game while there were Russians preparing for their training course, Mason snorting as you hushed them when Park grew near them. Not wishing for her to find out.

Quickly hiding it by inviting her to join just as Lazar and Sims came back, the two men seeming to easily join in as Park contemplated as she stared at the beer. With a sigh though, she sat by Lazar as she took one.

“Next time, I’m buying the alcohol here. You bought rubbish, Woods.”

“‘Rubbish?’ And beer is beer, nothing wrong with good ol cheap beer sometimes,” Woods defended. “Adds to the flavor.”

Lazar smiled, raising his bottle.

“Cheers to that.” Lazar and Woods tapped their bottles in the middle when they reached over, an easy aura settling between the group.

Sims got a bottle, assessing the name as well as the pack as he did a dog whistle.

“Germans know how to do one thing right, and that’s beer. You’ll be fine Park. It could be worse,” Sims took a drink, humming as he did so while Park frowned at her bottle when she took a few sips.

“Worse?”

“It could’ve been canned,” Mason answered, speaking from experience that made you raise a brow as you took a drink, settling further into your seat. “Canned cheap beer you can basically taste the metal. There was one time back in the States where I practically shitted myself due to this cheap beer I got at this random gas station in the middle of nowhere. Ruined my night.”

“And your pants it seems,” Lazar commented, mirth clear in his tone before he released a laugh along with Sims guffaw at the Israeli’s words. Park shaking her head but anyone can see her smile on her lips as Woods stated that’s what happens when you’re in “bumfuck nowhere” and probably got experimented with weird moonshine.

You snorted in surprise, covering your mouth as your imagination pictured the soldier rushing to the bathroom lest an accident happens. Mason? He seems so serious all the time, which you can understand why. You’ve read up what you could on everyone here, the description’s were small but you could fill in the lines. He’s lucky that he has such a good friend like Woods.

It soon became a trading of stories between everyone about drunk nights and how they reached that point, Lazar running with a bowl of chili and Woods determined to make condom water balloons and Sims was just finishing his own passed out in random deck chairs story when the door of the office opened.

You immediately turned towards where Adler now stood, staring at all of you as he closed the door and currently free of a cigarette. Your anxiety only grew when Adler turned his head towards you, as if he was asking you personally on the situation as you could only throw him an apologetic yet impish smile. Adler’s brow rose.

“Adler!” Woods called, raising a hand and motioning it for the man to come over. Adler approaching the group as you could only stare and tried to get a read on him. Alas, it was hard to discern his mind even if you could spot him glancing at everyone and the table with bottles. “Join us while there’s still beer left! Planning to drink all of this before Hudson comes. He can’t say anything if there’s no evidence.”

Adler hummed, stopping behind you and Sims as he appeared in thought. A trickle of hope coming up your chest at Woods offer.

“All of you are in luck,” Adler eventually answered, the subtle amused tone not lost on you as you intently focused on it. “Hudson isn’t coming till early in the morning tomorrow. Got caught up with something with Black. Can’t imagine how he would react if he saw all this.”

“Fuck ‘im,” Woods spat, reaching for a bottle and throwing Adler one. Adler catching it with his hand, shaded eyes turning towards the bottle to read the label. “We’re not here to please his every whim and cater to him like we’re his butlers. I say it’s a perfect time to wind down. We were just trading stories of getting shit faced.”

“All of you were,” Park corrected easily, “I don’t plan on sharing any such event.”

“Never say never, Park,” Lazar said, a grin playing on his lips as he winked at the British woman. “I’m sure a lady like you has quite a collection of stories.”

“A lady never says her secrets.”

You were still staring up at Adler as Sims playfully groaned at Lazar’s flirt tactics that Park didn’t seem to mind, Adler tilted his head down and met your eyes. Seeming to assess before turning his gaze towards the evidence board, which now had additional papers than previously since he entered the office, assessing. He than turned back towards you, you impatiently waiting as you shifted in your seat to see if he would let all of you continue, his eyes seeming to follow when your hand went to your jacket pocket.

Adler released a huff of soft exasperation, a shadow of a smirk playing on his lips.

“Don’t see the problem. We can all use a break from all of this.”

You practically beamed as Woods whooped, you moving a seat over where you were now next to Woods. Adler taking your seat as he sat by Sims now, opening his bottle as he asked whose story they were on. Sims continuing it and finishing before Lazar had another one. You listening with a smile or laughter, feeling the most at ease since this whole mission started you think. You believe that Adler must feel the same way, appearing relaxed as he sat and leaned back against the chair, beer forgotten and customary cigarette on his lips as he listened.

It made you want to take a picture of this moment. You standing up and announcing to the others you’ll do just that, Woods raising a brow at you.

“You and pictures. You a photographer or something? I hope you’ll at least show me what pics you took of me instead of those Red’s building.”

Your cheeks felt heated as you turned towards Woods, standing over him with fists clenched by your side as you called his name, askance. Making the man laugh at your expression, your irritation leaving you due to it but you gave him a warning look and call of his name which he caught. Not wishing for you to say the story, as Adler watched nonchalantly.

“Pictures? Got distracted again, Bell?” He asked, almost sounding like a tease only for the others to join in that you really loved that camera. You pursing your lips and appearing like you were pouting, as you turned away and got the camera from the Red Room quickly. Taking the picture of everyone only for Woods to motion his hand for it to your bewilderment.

“What? Don’t you want one with you in it too?” Woods asked, grabbing the camera from your hands as he grinned up at you. Adler and Park glancing at each other behind you, Adler flapping his cigarette hand uncaringly in answer. Mason raising a brow at the exchange but staying silent as his eyes moved back towards his loud friend.

You didn’t think of that but you stated you wanted one with everyone than, Park raising her hand for the camera to do the setting for it to be timed and placing it on top of Sims car he was working on earlier. All of you turning your chairs slightly, getting close with beers in hand and you trying to maintain a perfect smile even with Adler’s knee touching yours. The camera flashed, you feeling something by your head only for you to lightly punch Woods shoulder once you saw he must’ve gave you bunny ears in the photo. Him laughing away as you fought your own smile, his rugged charm rubbing off on you as Adler inhaled quietly as he watched the exchange.

The stories than eventually moved to mission stories, and than, unsurprisingly—to Vietnam. At this point, Park and Lazar retired for the night—Sims eventually doing the same when he noticed it turned to Vietnam. Which left you, Mason, Woods, and Adler—Adler just finishing up the story about what happened in Hue City, leaving a few details out you noted but loyally and wisely kept silent, as Mason took it in with a slight nod of his head.

“So that’s what happened on your side. Shit. . . that whole place was a shit show since the beginning. Lucky I only had to do a quick in and out by just getting a dossier.”

Woods snorted, nursing his fifth beer.

“That whole war was a shit show. Only good thing that came out of it is telling stories about it years later in a depressed warehouse. While a whole other type of war is happening.”

At the mention of the reminder of them losing that war, you spoke up.

“Not the only thing,” you couldn’t help but say, lost in thought as you looked at the ground.

Adler turned his head towards you as Woods and Mason did the same, curious.

“And what’s that, kid?”

You kept your gaze down for a moment more before flicking your eyes to the side towards Adler.

“We’re all still here, aren’t we?”

✯ ▙ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▞ ✯ ✯ ✯ ■ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▞ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▙ ✯

Ȳ̶͇̝͐ó̶̘̈ṵ̴̡͑͒ ̴̯̗̅ŵ̴̭͘â̸̭̼̤n̵̼͚̘͑t̶̠̮̯́̏ ̶̭̝̱̄́̅ţ̶̠̑̈̚ǫ̶̳̉́ ̴̘͖͊͊͘ͅ ̵̡͋́ṣ̶̞̆̚ ̴͚̲̕ț̸̓ộ̴̍̐p̴̣͓̾́ ̴̫̗̆͜ḫ̴̛̦͓́́ẽ̴̛̻̋ṛ̵̲̞͈̅͠ę̷̼̯͔̍̌͌?̶̫̩̆͆

̷̼̈́

̵̣̽̉͛

̶̝͋͂B̷̝̾̾u̸͚͊̕ţ̷̛̭͖̈́̾ ̶̱͑̔i̷̩͇̤̐ṯ̴̪̓̓ ̷̜͊d̸̆͜į̶̩͔̉̏d̵͔̓͝n̴̨͇͒’̵̰͑́͂ţ̸̯̯͋ ̷̧͖̣̿̒e̴̥͋͝n̴̘̱̿̕d̸̛̤̹̔ ̵̡̡̩̈̐h̷̫͔͂͜ë̴̺̜́͑͊ȑ̶̺͉͠ĕ̴̥̉.̴͕̭͌̕͠

̸̠̹̿̊̿

̸̠͊̅

̸͙͓̬̂͒͝Ë̶̼̙̭́͘̕ ̶̳͆v̵̱͙̿̋ ̴͔̇̋ę̷͚̫͆̃̈n̵̥̣͈̏̅ ̷͇̮͒͊ ̴̛̺ ̶̡͆t̶̢̘͒ḧ̷̺̉ě̸͓̼̂ͅ ̶̬̲̫̈b̶̟̪̒̒ę̵͊͝s̶̟̱̐ţ̴͙̳̆̚ ̶͔̈́d̸̝̭͑̈́͒o̸͖͑̓g̸̨͌̈́̀s̴̹̫̖͗̅ ̶̯̝͛ḷ̶̬̔͌̐i̷̘̥̓́k̴͕̓͝ĕ̷̡̿̽́ ̵̖͗̾͘ţ̵̟̤̈́́̽ö̴͖͕͙́͗͝ ̴̦̂͊͝r̶͉͈̊̆̔ų̴̝̋̈ņ̶̼͛ ̶̭̦́.̶͔̇̄

̶̫̘͒̌̿

̵͓̱͇̆̕͠

̷̧̰̙̇͝B̶͕̐̐̓e̸̖̟̋ŝ̶̨t̵̗̎̀,̴̯̥̐̕ ̶͚͓̓̀́ť̶͐̂͜ŏ̸̢̿̉ ̵̨͎̄̿͆ć̷̣̓͑́ơ̶͔͓̋̿̔m̵̧̢̩̃ê̸̘̠̠ ̴̰̫͠͝ͅb̶͇̔̒ą̶̤̯̰̽͊c̸͈͗k̸̩͉͙̓̿ ̷̻̼̰͆ẃ̶̞͙̃͒͌ḧ̵̘͑̒̃e̵̜̰̓͘͝ń̶͙͒̚ ̵̪̖̥̊̈́ȑ̷̢̌̎ẽ̸̛͇̂ͅà̴̞̖̫d̸̤̺̽͛ỳ̴̰̊͝ ̷̠̌͝f̴̢́͊o̴͉̒͠r̷͕͙͙̽̋́ ̶͈̾̉t̴̥͒͘r̷͉̘̐́ų̸̠̔̋́t̴̨͚́̾h̷̖͕̯̀̒͛.̵̫̟̬̄

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▷ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

“Bell”

Second Life

15:47| February 26, 1981

CIA SAFEHOUSE E9, “DIE LANDEBAHN”

Soon after you said your thoughts to Adler about the file, you moved to go back to your desk only to pause by the T.V. You turned back, Adler raising a curious brow as he put out his cigarette with his ash tray nearby. You asked him for any other files he may need help with, Adler saying nothing as he reached another file by him and handing it to you. You grabbed it, your black leather gloved hand grazing against his bare one as you took it. Taking note of what he said about it before turning to your desk and staying there. Ignoring a probing stare in the back of your neck.

You’ll do what you must, but if he expects you to stay by his side when he inconvenienced you earlier by making you come to him. . . Well, you think a little petty action is worth it.

Besides, you have to think by yourself for a moment. The call about Volkov squeaking his rat mouth should’ve came already. By nighttime—you, Adler, and Park should already be on the way to Ukraine and meet up with Woods and Mason.

Woods and Mason, you think fondly with a sad smile of a whirlwind of a man drinking back beer after beer like water with a deep throated laugh and the silent soldier with sad eyes yet listens attentively and a kind smile that brightens. Oh, I’ve missed you guys.

They were barely in the safehouse, out in missions constantly when you would decode and just being the team’s powerhouse duo. When they were here though, the safehouse was louder. More easy and free, less stifling and grim due to the work they were doing. They had a certain charisma very different than Adler’s, one’s that captured you in a different manner so it is no surprise you managed to get close and hang with them more than anyone when they were here. Sims being distant, Park communicating with MI6 about the CIA, Lazar determined to woo the agent when he wasn’t cleaning and prepping weapons, and Adler was. . .busy watching you were in line you suppose.

Card games and stories being shared, Woods and Mason not seeming to mind when you were around them. You suspect Woods let you get close to make sure you don’t tell his precious secret and blunder back in the arcade room in Ukraine. Although you would tease him that you might at times.

You feel like that in your other life, Park was right. You don’t think those two knew about your situation. It just made you like them more.

Because at least with them, you’re positive it was real.

“I knew I could count on you.”

You wished they were able to save you from Adler though. But they were tired and celebratory of what they accomplished. They took in Adler saying you and him were just taking a detour at face value.

“Do not trust Adler. He is lying to you.”

Adler always lies.

You have to remember that. And to just brush away any kindness he may show.

It’s not real.

Is it?

A loyal and trained dog through and through.

When you saw it was nearing 1700 hours, you looked around where Park was. Seeing she was with Adler in the corner by the weights, conversing with him with a crease in her brow while Adler looked as if he was only mildly taking note of her words as he puffed along his cigarette. A trait of his you knew frustrated the British woman. Adler likes to feign disinterest a lot. It could be seen as a weapon to make others talk due to how irritating it could be or make one cautious at how apathetic the man can act or look.

You walked over to them, your ears getting the tail end of whatever was ailing Park.

“—not making light of this and reign it in. Oh, Bell.” Park’s tone softened, a sharp contrast that stood out to you as she noticed you step up to them. Adler not even glancing at you as he continued his smoke, or at least not turn his head towards you. It’s dark in this corner so you wouldn’t be able to tell if he turned his eyes towards you or not unless he moved his head or body in your direction. “What’s wrong? Any new updates on the decryptions?”

You shook your head, looking between the two of them before settling on Park.

“What’s the word on Volkov? He talk yet?”

Park sighed.

“I’m afraid not. He’s proved himself stubborn despite his tastes being similar to what makes the U.K. great.”

You cocked a brow, a teasing smirk playing on your lips.

“Medieval torture devices not his style?” You asked, calling back to what Park said about Volkov’s hobbies.

Park matched you, amused as she shrugged lightly.

“I believe the lack of scotch is what will do him in personally.”

“He has to talk soon,” Adler cut in, exhaling a puff as you and Park turned towards him. Adler faced Park, arching a brow as he continued calmly. “Your guys over there aren’t giving him a good time right now, I imagine. The last thing we need is for him to be tight lipped.”

Your throat turned dry. You think you regret mentioning this as Park answered.

“He’s not the type to remain loyal if his back is to the wall. His selfish demeanor and arrogance will what cause him to try to strike a deal with us. It will benefit us than him in the end once he breaks.”

“If he breaks,” Adler added with a frown. “If he still doesn’t talk by the next two days, we might as well have killed him once we saw him. He’s useless.”

“She’s of no use to us anymore.”

You swallowed, moving to pocket your hands in your black bomber jacket as your hands clenched along with your jaw.

Park frowned at Adler, disapproving.

“He knows a great many things. Not everyone can handle interrogation for so long and be able to stay silent about anything that might give them reprieve.”

Oh, look, you thought sourly, bitterness starting to rise once more as you maintained your blank expression besides your taut jaw. They’re complimenting me. How nice of them to say I wasn’t easy for them.

Control your tongue, you stupid dog.

Adler huffed, it almost sounding like one mixed with amusement and exasperation as he shook his head slightly.

“Perseus’ people are almost as slippery and conniving as Perseus himself. And dangerous.” Adler took another inhale and exhale, the smoke curling around them and going over your head as your gaze lazily followed it to distract yourself while Adler did the same, tipping his head up to watch. “Perhaps he knows if he talks, he might as well be dead. We don’t need an Aldrich in the MI6 either.”

Park’s demeanor straightened at Adler’s accusation, the possibility of having a traitor or spy in her agency a great insult. She was about to say a scathing retort surely, but you cut her off.

“He’ll talk,” you say cooly, unreadable gaze towards Adler as he finally turned his head in acknowledgement towards you.

“What makes you so sure?” He asked, curiosity lacing his tone along with intrigue as he moved to place his cigarette for another puff.

You straightened your shoulders as you stared deep into his aviators that shadowed him properly to be America’s Monster.

“They all eventually do.”

Adler paused his hand, lips not around his craving as he stared towards you. Both your gazes not breaking even as Park looked between the two of you before settling with staring at Adler with slightly narrowed eyes.

Adler pressed his lips, a whisper of a smirk as he did it and nodded towards you once more before turning back towards Park.

“You hear that, Park? No reason to worry. Everyone talks. Right, Bell?”

“Yes, sir.” You say, ignoring how your stomach churned yet your heart pounded. You’re no saint. “We both know how to make them.” You slipped out, knowing eyes not leaving his face as you twisted a knife.

Adler didn’t seem to notice, or care really as he seemed to throw Park a mildly triumphant look. You don’t know why it would. You wouldn’t either and can care less about those you tortured—whether false or real.

Monsters do not worry over every drop in the red ocean they created.

Y o u’r e  n o  s a i n t, д е м о н.

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▷ ▷ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You had headphones in, listening to the audio log to finish up the decryption despite the lack of other Intel so you could put all your focus on Operation Red Circus. Instead of the exchange earlier, all of them.

So you didn’t hear when the garage door opened and a van to come in, but you did when it got slammed closed. You jumped in your seat in the corner on your desk, hidden behind the evidence board and the T.V. You lowered your headphones, curious to see what was going on and if Sims brought in another car, only for your breath to hitch in your throat. You standing up so quick your chair almost fell back as you stood next to the T.V., heart thundering only for it to stop as you stared avidly, wildly, madly, hopefully.

Adler moved his hand to guide the red van in, sighing out a puff of smoke as the driver came out.

“Hudson barely gave me any warning about this before you guys arrived. Didn’t think he was going to give the okay on this based on the latest call on Volkov.”

“Well, you know Hudson,” the voice that spoke was quiet yet deep with how it spoke in easy amusement. If one strains their ear, you could spot the reserved soldier with sad eyes and a kind smile. “Always the one that loves to talk.”

“Pfft, yeah,” this one, this one was all rough and throaty as if it got abused in the past from events unknown but one can guess. If one just takes a glance, you could discern the storm stuck in a body yet does a light drizzle for friends despite the thunder. “Hudson’s a real charmer. Don’t tell me that the Russian Godfather decided to finally open his mouth right when we got here.” At Adler’s nod, the one man army groaned. “Man, jet lag is going to be a fuckin killer! Forget hotels, I’m sleeping here until we head out.”

They’re. . . Your hands shook by your side. Not paying kind to Park who stepped out the Red Room, head turned towards you and approaching you as she called out to you. You only stared as you bit the inside of your lip.

Sims, who helped pull the van in and was now leaning against the side of it, shook his head amiably with a chuckle.

“I wouldn’t do that unless you’re fine with a raggedy ass mattress that looks like hasn’t seen the light of day since the ‘60s.”

“I believe the ‘70s personally,” Lazar spoke up as he sat on his desk, empty plate of takeout near him. “It still has potential if one’s desperate.”

“Yeah, well I’m desperate. Now where is it?” He turned his head along with his friend, comrade, forever ally just as they took a few steps close to where Park’s desk was and seeming to notice you the first time. Adler tilting his head at you, you silently just staring at the two as if you haven’t seen them in years, puffing silently as his brow rose curiously. But you could only look dumbly, eyes feeling a little pressure. They’re here. “Who are you and what the fuck are you looking at?” Woods asked sharply.

You blinked. Once. Twice.

Your lips lifted into a smile before it opened, letting a loud bark of a laugh come out. You’re laughing.

When was the last time you laughed? Genuinely?

You could practically feel the stares, but you didn’t care. They’re here.

They were real.

Once your laughter calmed to chuckles and giggles, clearing the corner of your eyes for any possible tears, Adler stepped up between you and the two soldiers. Giving you a quick once over behind his glasses, you waving your hand at him dismissively slightly at his unanswered question, his brow furrowing before relaxing as he put an arm out towards you.

“Woods. Mason. This is Bell, my protege. I spoke to you about her before.”

You quickly fixed yourself and your expression as you took a polite step forward, you probably look absolutely insane. They don’t know you despite you knowing them. Calm down. You just didn’t expect that a change like the others would be this.  Oh god, you looked insane.

“Sorry,” you began, a tiny sheepish play to your lips, “I just—you guys are both legends and I just didn’t expect to see you guys here. At least, so soon. You could say I was a bit. . . excited to put it lightly. Hope I didn’t scare you off?”

Woods and Mason stared at you, Mason having distant amusement playing in his brown eyes as Woods non-subtly leaned towards Mason, a hand slightly covering his mouth.

“Careful Mason,” Woods falsely whispered as he eyed you with suspicion. “We have a rabid fan on our hands.”

“I think she can hear you,” Mason didn’t try to whisper but it didn’t matter as Woods suddenly snorted as he crossed his arms.

“Listen here, Bell. The last thing that’s gonna scare us is someone who got excited about seeing us like we were the fucking—what is it these days? Someone gimme a hand.”

“You talking about bands?” Lazar questioned, Woods nodding as he glanced behind to where the dark skinned man stood by his desk, Lazar staring up in thought. “There’s Fleetwood Mac still going on.”

“Not like how the Beatles was going on,” Woods answered, a little too seriously as you fought a smile while Mason moved and leaned against the evidence board.

“Hear there’s growing popularity with AC/DC and Kiss. They’ve been on the radio a lot lately.”

Woods swiped his hand back and forth as he made a sound of disgust.

“You comparing us to those guys that look like they came out of hell, Mason? What do we look like?”

“I think it fits,” Adler dryly stated, clicking his lighter on to light his cigarette. Woods telling Adler he’s not helping as Park came by next to you with a hand to her hip.

“If demons don’t work, there’s always the Queen. And I’m not talking about the one I serve.”

“Queen is pretty good,” Sims said from behind, “but you guys had to have heard that new song Celebration by the Kool and the Gang. That shit hits.”

“Whichever!” Woods turned towards you asking you how exactly you know about them, you answering honestly that you read up on them on the computer. Seeing no point in hiding it as Woods gave a vicious grin towards you. “Well, aren’t you a nosy little shit. You always read up on everybody?” You were once again honest, saying you like to be thorough with everything but you only had a brief description to go off about them. Whatever secrets they may have is safe with them. Woods sniffed, slightly backing off and Mason appeared to have relaxed his shoulders. “A nosy shit with manners at least. And balls to say all of that to our faces despite what you read.”

True, if you did not know Woods and Mason. Despite that one time where you truly felt their intimidating aura on you, once you get to know them, they’re softies that are loyal. Even with Woods barbed and vulgar words and Mason always observing quietly behind with an assessing look in his eyes, you know they’re shields. Walls. To help with whatever occurred before—just like everyone else here.

And, just like there’s walls. . .

“There’s no innocence here,” you answered, shrugging with a bitter smile.

Woods stared at you for a moment before guffawing, pointing in your direction as he turned to face Adler who stared at you behind his shades as he inhaled his addiction.

“Where’d ya find her, Adler?” Woods asked, before than flapping his hand. “Answer that later. I need food and to knock the fuck out for tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” You repeated, even though you already knew as Adler answered.

“Let’s go over the details briefly. You were right, Bell. Volkov talked.”

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ▌▌ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You watched after the meeting how Woods moved, all loudness and an army in one body with the propriety of one would find in any soldier—none at all. Refreshing. Needed. Even though he looked at you strange when you offered to help with setting up his bed that was all dust and old in the storage room by the generator.

You wonder in the end, after the cliff, how Woods reacted after just saving you from a large sheet of metal debris. Is it naive thinking that he might’ve been mad?

You looked at Mason, more careful with your approach as you smiled softly at him while you gave him the quick rundown that everyone has a spot chosen for their work. That they could use the desk by where they put the projector if they want. Mason raising a brow at you but letting you once you wisely gave him his space.

Would Mason be furious? You were unlucky because you were under the wrong flag. You were born a Russian. If you weren’t than, maybe, they would’ve kept you like they did him.

Meanwhile, Adler—a gaze that never falters, and eyes that are all-seeing with how hawkish they could be, does he see(?)—observed you silently as you moved to and fro with an energy that wasn’t there before. And a smile that looks genuine. He sits back, and watches.

“Shame you were born in the wrong country.”

There’s a lot of shameful things that are tied to you. But like any good monster, any foolish Icarus, and any stupid girl—you’ll ignore them.

.

.

.

American pup—американский щеноk

American bitch—американская сука

You wish to be American, comrade—ты хочешь быть американцем товарищ

Demon—демон

I don't know if it's been too subtle--but Bell isn't exactly. . .mentally/emotionally healthy right now. Adler is just everywhere. But maybe Woods and Mason can help now by just being there.

I love those two a lot.

This Second Life of Bell is coming to a close soon, this has gone longer than planned but thank you for everyone that has been with me so far! ^///////^ Happy Late 6th Anniversary of Undertale that inspired this story's plot <3

I am having trouble contacting my beta due to Tumblr being stupid with messages. Maybe I can reach them here, please contact me on Discord under username: Animefreak1145 (Code #8517)

*PM me if you wish to be Tagged*

@quizzyisdone @zulema117-blog @efingart @pinkpinkboota @nuclear-boston @lifeisthemoments @jintana-critical @eclectriccanoeseven @hurricanesyd-blog @parkeepingparker @moonchild365-blog @aurora-windu @imperfectophelia @dvesinthewind @holy-crap-i-am-russlle-adler @i-will-give-you-love @adlerboi @preciouslilcreature @saynotohydra @mayaibnlaahad @smokeywhalee @0shuni0-blog @multi-fandom-imagine @littlepotatowizard @direwolfspostsrandomshit @darlingor @collinnmckinley @kayalect @nikkibell1937 @fuzzybonkeggsopera @ppfedd @bro0kebxrter @actuallyilya @stayb1ack @frankwoodsmalewife @tr1ppylady @nocturnalblurbee @salvija @gojocat247 @dallmaistir @animecriminal @weirdoartist21

#Russell adler #Russell Adler x bell!reader #bell!reader #for whom the bell tolls #I am thee and thou art me #cod bell #call of duty #call of duty bell #Undertale Reset AU #Cold War Reset AU #female bell #female!Bell #cod adler #cod:bocw #safehouse crew #Alex mason #frank woods #adler x bell #bell x adler #poor poor bell #female!BellReader #cod fanfiction #cod perseus #Russell Adler x bell #call of duty fanfiction #cold war #black ops cold war #chapter 4 #cod:bocw fanfiction

[starry-kin-cafe]

~ intro ~

welcome to my cafe!! here i give out a lot of things to anyone and everyone! i refer to this blog as starry cafe and everything is cafe themed. this blog is mainly for those who kin from the media i do orders for. please read through everything before interacting! 

the rest of the post is under the cut!

im mod alex, and im a trans demiboy that uses he/they pronouns! i am a neurodivergent minor and am currently the only mod working on orders. i may not be able to deliver orders for some periods of time due to school, and i apologize in advance!

you may call me starry or lati if you’d prefer to!

you may also call me by my kin names too! 

current kin name list: sorbet, hunter, koto

~ dni criteria ~

do not interact if you are:

racist

ableist

a p\dophile/MAP

lgbtq+phobic (homophobic, transphobic, etc.)

anti neopronouns

anti xenogender

transmed

a terf

a nazi

kinphobic/anti kin

“super straight” or anything similar (the identity is inherently transphobic) 

a proshipper/anti-anti

a nsfw and/or kink blog

inc/stual or support inc/st

just here to troll/spam the ask box

if your name is tyr, i would prefer if you use a different name

~ sources ~

main sources: 

danganronpa (localized games only)

cookie run: ovenbreak

doki doki literature club

the owl house

animal crossing

bug fables: the everlasting sapling

other sources: 

(i may have to deny requests for these due to limited knowledge)

danganronpa 3: end of hope’s peak academy

danganronpa zero

genshin impact

my little pony: friendship is magic

undertale/deltarune

steven universe

~ blacklist ~

h/ji towa

monaca x nagisa shingetsu (danganronpa)

despair!junko enoshima x anyone (non despair is okay! i have separate non despair junko sprites i can use) 

boscha x willow (the owl house) 

pre-timeskip spike x any adult character (examples: any of the mane 6 x spike will not be done) (mlp:fim)

~ the menu ~

edits:

icons (can have multiple characters, specific themes, and/or lgbtq+ stuff!)

backgrounds (phones and pc only)

aesthetic/mood boards

ship edits (only if the characters have fullbody or halfbody sprites i can use)

minor sprite edits (danganronpa, cookie run, bug fables, and ddlc only) 

art/writing:

doodles (mainly sketches, i will not accept requests that are too complex or have more than 5 characters in them)

headcanons/small write-ups (they might be called something else but im not sure. ill basically do a bulleted list of how i believe the character would react) (these will take longer to come out and can only be done for main sources)

misc:

kin help (basically what other blogs would call kin assigning. i take kinning to be very personal so i am uncomfortable with assigning people kins, but i can recommend some characters for you to consider!) (please specify which sources you’d like for me to pick from or ill default to my main sources) (this is not for canon calls, all asks in that style will be denied)

meme edits/doodles (please specify the character[s] and specify the meme. i can edit videos as well, but those will be a lot more simple)

opinions/personal headcanons (ask for my opinion for anything from any source, includes fandom specific things as long as they dont have things that are on the blacklist)

~ other important things ~

you will have to like a post if you use anything in it. reblogs and credit are also encouraged and appreciated!

i have a main blog mainly for my art and ramblings. it is undergoing some rebranding so i cant link it rn!

if i use my art in any of my edits, credit is required

the blog is currently cafe themed so tags and such will have that theme. i will be referring to requests as orders and anons as customers and other terminology that has not been decided yet  

i use tone indicators when i feel they should be included

i use they/them for chihiro fujisaki 

i use he/they for sorbet shark cookie (i will try to use they but im a dumb kinnie that self projects way too much so i will slip up sometimes sfhhdfjg) 

i may use they/them for mukuro ikusaba (when im in a mukuro shift i get uncomfortable with mukuro being related to things that could be perceived as feminine, which includes her canon pronouns [she/her]) 

~ outro ~

that’s it! im sorry for such a long introduction post, im too lazy to make a carrd haha

i hope you enjoy your stay at the starry cafe!! 

#kin blog #kin help #kin edits #intro post #also gonna use this as a tag dump #~ mod alex #~ customer question #~ customer small talk #~ ooc #~ order up! the request has been delivered #~ returning customer #~ the menu doesnt have that item! the request will have to be denied #~ this item needs some specifications. the request needs some more information to be accepted #~ promo #~ personal order

[nullset2]

Mother 3 - An In-depth Critique and Review

Ah, Mother 3, how I love you so!

The game which with which I forwent all possible aspirations to healthily integate into normal High School society: imagine walking into a party, people are drinking and being cool, and you ask them if they have ever played a very underground, very deep RPG only released in Japan called "Mother".

Yeah! I know! It's like you're asking to be bullied, and I realized it too late.

But anyway!

Mother 3 is one of the most important games you could ever play --alas, if only it wasn't near impossible to obtain it.

Yet, perhaps this adds to its allure and to the power of its narrative --a narrative which, by the way, I'm convinced is the very actual reason why it will never release formally in the United States.

As time has passed, I've actually become more and more impressed about how relevant the game is to the socioeconomic reality that we are in nowadays. I'm impressed that Shigesato Itoi had all of this in his mind's eye as early as 1996, and that the story was already written down in 1999!

Right now it's been 14 years since it's release on the GBA, but I think that the game is a timeless classic and warrants a playthrough now more than ever. Wanna know why?

Wanna find out?

Part 1. "A Japanese Copywriter's Americana"

The year is 1989 and a Japanese Copywriter --somebody who writes "Catch Copies", which are a sort of a long-form slogan that is very common in Japanese pop culture to advertise)-- by the name of Shigesato Itoi became a fan of the Dragon Quest series of RPGs, which are massively popular in Japan, even to this day. He also loved video games: he's asthmatic, so he recalls only being able to sleep sitting up as a child, and having to occupy his lonely time through asthma attacks playing video games, since he had to sit up and had nothing else to do at night.

His love of RPGs would linger in his mind until 1989 when he had an opportunity to meet with Hiroshi Yamauchi and Shigeru Miyamoto and was offered the opportunity to develop a video game with Nintendo. Harkening back to the endless hours he poured into Dragon Quest, his concept eventually took form by deriving from it. He called the story "MOTHER", as a reference to John Lennon's "Mother", since he is a very hardcore fan of The Beatles. The games have tons of obvious influence by old American films and comics, like ET and Peanuts, which he also loved very much.

For MOTHER, he wanted to explicitly go against the grain, by designing an RPG without "Swords and Magic", which stereotypically most RPGs follow, even from things as minor as to design a protagonist who was weak and vulnerable, asthmatic and without a Father Figure, yet, still heroic through much toil --which reflects Ninten from the original MOTHER for the famicom.

Miyamoto, in his usual taskmaster persona, arranged a team to work with Itoi for the creation of the RPG, by bringing in people from HAL laboratory and APE Inc, and thus MOTHER was born to great Japanese Acclaim. A game which took many risks in its genre, such as eschewing the idea of a separate overworld from navigation in the towns, the subject matter, the movement system and many other things which made it quite Unique. It was so popular that soon after the first project was released, MOTHER 2 started development, involving people from what's currently known as Game Freak and HAL Labs.

MOTHER 2 is a very unique game because it was the very first time that the series attempted to make an incursion in the Americas. Releasing in a big flamboyant flashy box, with a strategy guide and a bunch of goodies included, MOTHER 2 released as Earthbound in the states, a bigger and better version of the vision of the first game. Better graphics, Beatles references, sampled audio, pop culture cornucopia, it's all here and then some!

Famous for its role in technically driving the game, Satoru Iwata, ex-CEO and software developer for Nintendo,7 of Wii acclaim, helped the game meet its 1996 release date. It is known that the original version of the game ran into deep technical issues which the original dev team was not able to overcome. Once Satoru Iwata got involved, the game was reworked to a viable version and released to much critical acclaim. In his own words, he proposed to rewrite the tech that powered the main game. It was a matter of either continuing with the current code and be done in two years, or redoing everything and being done in six months under his vision, he said.

No matter its strong promotion from Nintendo, the marketing got botched, and the game paled compared to the flashy and bombastic magical RPGs of its era, like Final Fantasy VI, Super Mario RPG and Chrono Trigger of all things. So, Earthbound faced a very bad destiny in the states, by releasing to low acclaim, bad review scores and terrible sales numbers --even though it eventually reached Cult Classic status, due to its pure hearted nature, its hallucinogenic themes and characters, and its fantastic spirit over all.

And this game is worthy of discussion by itself a whole bunch because of the ripple effects it had in video game culture in the Western world. Enter starmen dot net. To this date, the epicenter of discussion for everything related to the MOTHER series. There you had me as early as 2002, browsing a half-rendered version of starmen dot net in a dingy computer in some dingy internet cafe in some shitty neighborhood in Mexico, trying to be a part of the discussion and the hype.

To this date, I consider starmen dot net as the non-plus-ultra case for how passionate Internet fan cultures can become.

Flat out, no other fandom has ever came close to the level of dedication, attention to detail and passion to tribute the original creation around which its fans congregate. A massive amount of fan paraphernalia has come out of starmen dot net --yes, even Undertale, 2015 indie darling RPG thing, originally got started on the Starmen dot net forums. People married and even started large, commercially viable enterprises, such as Fangamer.net, the firm which publishes Undertale, from starmen dot net.

...and then... silence...

After Earthbound's 1995 release, we enter a ten year hiatus for the series.

Even though both MOTHER games were incredibly popular in Japan, HAL Laboratory and APE Inc. weren't able to successfully make a jump onto the third dimension for the series come the Nintendo 64 era. They had a demo come the infamous Spaceworld 96, where a bunch of pre-release games for the then called "Ultra 64", which was the codename for the Nintendo 64, were showcased. And lo and behold, we have a sequel to Mother coming out, called Mother 3, the ROM for which has never been found by the way.

I'd love to get a look at the materials in that ROM.

The scarce footage we have available from it exhibits some of the elements we ended up seeing in the final released version of the game, like some of the original music like the Mozart ghost theme, and the DCMC section, albeit in a more primitive low poly way. It is known that both studios weren't very proficient at 3d Game development yet, which was still nascent. This together with other factors, such as the fact that at some point development was moved onto the unreleased-in-America, unpopular 64DD addon, undisclosed factors dropped the game into development hell, which ultimately led to its cancellation in the year 2000.

Plenty of mystery surrounded the now defunct project, to the dismay of a bunch of passionate fans in Starmen.net and elsewhere online. However, it turned out that the valiant effort of the fans, who made a huge amount of effort to campaign for the revival of the series, even mailing fanmail, fanart and other materials to the Itoi Shinbun offices in Japan (a titanical task in the world of the early 2000s).

Fast forward to 2003, and the Game Boy Advance, the little portable console that could, was in its Apex. Due to Satoru Iwata's campaining, it was announced that development on MOTHER 3 would be restarted, this time in 2D, for the gameboy advance. Much anticipation in Starmen.net followed this announcement, since it finally validated its efforts...

Come 2006, once the console was well into its end-of-life, with small nudges to play the game on a Gameboy player if possible, perhaps to try to follow suit with its predecessors, the sequel finally released to much acclaim. But what did Shigesato Itoi have in store for everyone all along? What kind of beast had just been unleashed onto the World?

Part 2. "Of Monkeys and Men"

Mother 3 follows the story of a young boy, Lucas, in a multi-chapter structure, which is novel for the series but not unheard of in the RPG genre. Besides this, the RPG plays very similar to your usual JRPG fare, and basically uses the Ultimately polished version of the MOTHER series' mechanics, groovy backgrounds and all.

The first three chapters of the game follow the perspective of different characters residing in Tazmilly Village as the plot of the game unfolds. The plot is centered around the residents of a peaceful town in an Island in an unspecified location, Nowhere Islands, which in my opinion is an allegory both of Japan and America, moreover with the fact that the game of the logo very clearly has a rising sun covered in metal, in a logo that's an amalgam of two different things which don't match, a subtle reference to the game's undertones to come.

From these residents we come to know the daily lives of a particular family: Flint, a farmer; Hinawa, his wife (a name in reference to Sunflowers, Himawari, her favorite flower), and their twin children, Lucas and Claus.

The game begins in the midst of their idyllic life in the mountains visiting Lucas' grandfather Alec, and playing around with meek dinosaurs which inhabit Nowhere Islands. See, in the world of Mother 3, no violence truly exists, and people have come to live peacefully with each other and nature. There's no such thing as the concept of money, Instead relying on an economy that's mostly based around bartering and hospitality.

However, everyone's lives veer into turmoil once strange alien beings invade, the Pigmask army, an army of big, fat and slovenly creatures dressed in pig-like attire, who seem to have a vast amount of technology and resources at their disposal yet aim for Nowhere Islands for colonization.

The Pigmasks have an as-of-yet unnamed leader, who is demanding them to make everything in the World "bigger, cooler, stronger and faster", and thus they seize Nowhere Islands by force of bombings and a forest fire to use its flora and fauna. And thus, while escaping from the forest fires returning from Alec's home, Hinawa tragically gets killed by a Drago which has been modified to be aggressive against its nature through robotics implanted in it by the Pigmask army.

There's an unused cutscene in the game's ROM data where Hinawa, instead, dies by bomb explosion...

...yeah, I'm just... gonna let you process that one by yourself ;)

The Drago left a fang in the middle of her heart, which is recovered by one of the Tazmillians and provided back to Flint along with a fragment of her crimson dress. Besmirched and angry, Claus, the festier one of the twin children, sets out to try to hunt the drago and achieve revenge, but he goes missing... Flint embarks in search of Claus and to kill the drago, and thus the first chapter of the game concludes, with the implication that Claus has gone missing...

With Lucas' family torn to shreds and The Pigmasks invading Tazmilly, it seems that we're in a situation ripe for disaster.

Chapter 2 follows Duster's adventure, which runs in parallel (as every other chapter will) to other chapters' stories. Duster is the last heir in a bloodline of Cat Burglars whose abilities are not in use anymore given that Tazmilly has no more commerce or crime. However it turns out that the Pigmask invasion puts his skills back in demand to infiltrate Oshoe Castle and retrieve an artifact which the Pigmasks are after and which Duster's family is the guardian of. The nature of the artifact in Oshoe Castle is as of yet unknown, however it is implied that it is important to the fabric of Tazmilly village.

At Castle Oshoe, Duster meets a mysterious princess, Kuma-tora (which translates literally to "beartiger", in allusion to the dichotomy of her existence, since she is very... masculine in attitude and refers to herself with, yes, male pronouns, perhaps anticipating identity politics by 14 years at least), who is also after the artifact in the Castle, the Hummingbird egg. The chapter ends with the Hummingbird Egg going missing, and a mysterious peddler of goods arriving into town, while Kumatora and Duster's father realize he has gone missing...

Chapter 3 follows the adventure of a little Monkey, Salsa, which gets flown into Nowhere Islands to perform a job. This is a novelty in a town where the concept of a job doesn't exist as of yet, however, the peddler of goods is going to need a lot of hands if he wants to fullfill his vision. The peddler, Fassad (which is a tongue in cheek way to say "facade", right?) promises to all residents in Nowhere Island eternal happiness if they buy his newest product, the "Happy Box", a television-like contraption which glows with a warm light and which people are attracted to and engrossed by. For this, he introduces the concept of money and swindles people his way, convincing them that this is the way to go and promising them excitement and benefit if they listen to him.

Salsa delivers Happy boxes throughout the whole chapter, and gets shocked, even in the middle of the night, if something goes wrong with his job or tries to escape due to a shock collar implanted by Fassad. However, he runs into Kumatora and Wess, Duster's father, and they ploy together to free up Salsa and mess up Fassad's forceful takeover of Oshoe Castle, when Lucas shows up with several dragos in tow and fights against the Tank invasion of Oshoe Castle.

(A foreign animal being introduced into a new society with the express intent of exploiting it to propel forward a commercial enterprise by toil... geez, I dunno, where have I heard that one?)

From Chapter 4 Onwards the game adopts a more conventional JRPG scheme, through a timeskip which happens literally two years in the future. In this future version of Tazmilly, money (Dragon Points) and ATMs are now existent, similar to other Mother games. The game follows Lucas' adventure through a now-modernized and industrialized technologically advanced Tazmilly, trying to retrieve the "seven needles" from the island, which are soon enough shown to be a source of great power that the pigmask army is also after and to which Lucas must try to get to first due to a calling by mysterious beings which inhabit Nowhere Islands, the Magypsies. With a lot of emotional moments, such as Lucas having visions of his Mother in the middle of a field of Sunflowers, we follow the adventures of the party as they infiltrate the pigmask ranks and gather information about its nature and intentions.

It is then discovered that the pigmasks are commanded by a Masked leader, who dominates the power of thunder through a tower which was built in the middle of the town and which strikes anybody down with thunder if they overstep the Law and Order that the pigmasks have implemented. The party fights this masked leader in bouts while exploring the world and reuniting with a now missing Kumatora and Duster, who are found to have settled as employees in a Nightclub called "Club Titiboo".

Eventually, through his travels, Lucas gains an artifact from Mr. Saturn, the inhabitants of a special region in Nowhere called Saturn Valley and which has been passed down through all three Mother games, called the "Franklin Badge". When equipped, this item allows the bearer to become immune to lighting attacks and reflecting them back.

The party soon discovers that the world is inhabited by an special elder race, existant from before the creation of Tazmilly village and who know more about everything going on with the invasion, called the "Magypsies", a race of transexual, magical creatures who help Lucas discover the fact that he has Psychic abilities, also known as "PSI" within the MOTHER canon. He uses these to proceed further in his adventure to pull the seven Golden Needles, the first of which Fassad was attempting to get to, in the Courtyard of Oshoe Castle.

Lucas moves into a city called "New Pork City" in the conclusion of the game, which is a town built by the pigmasks completely in the honor of Porky, full of all sorts of Pigmask paraphernalia and amusement. It is found that the seventh and final needle is inside humongous tower in the middle of the city, the Porky tower.

Moreover, it is also revealed that the Pigmask army is led by Porky, known as "Pokey" in the American localization of Mother 2, Earthbound. Pokey is shown to have developed into a tyrant as an adult, with unlimited lust for blood and power, who used Doctor Andonuts' Phase Distorter after the events of Earthbound to mess around with the unlimited realities and dimensions it gave him access too, as a petulant child does with a video game. Once he got kicked out of every other possible reality due to the chaos he created, he found the Nowhere islands and decided to mess with it.

The climax of the game comes around Chapter 7, when the now fully-developed party runs into Leder, one of the original Tazmillian villagers, a lanky and really tall person who never spoke, not a single word, in the game until now. Leder is revealed to be the only person who knows what is the true nature of it all: tazmilly village is the remanider of civilization once the world of Mother 2 collapsed by cataclysm. A flood wiped away everything and the very last remainder of people who survived fled to nowhere islands in a big white ship and settled there, willingly forfeiting all technological advances and knowledge of the world into the Hummingbird egg, the artifact that Duster's family protected in Oshoe, a device which wiped everyone's memories, with the intent of undoing civilization and living back in a peaceful village-like state again.

It is revealed that when all seven needles are pulled, a supernatural power on which the island is built will be awakened. This supernatural power is revealed to be a Dragon by Leder, who had to be subdued by the ancestors of the Magypsies so people could live in Nowhere islands as their last resort. Whoever pulls out the needles which keep it in slumber will pass the intentions and nature of their heart onto the dragon. Thus, Lucas must be the one who pulls out the last needle instead of Porky or the masked man, in hopes that a second cataclysm like the first doesn't happen again.

After making their way through all the pigmask defenses, Lucas and Co. face off with Porky, who is now a bedridden, pathetic man. Doctor Andonuts from Mother 2, appears here, and is revealed to have developed a solution to contain Porky, the Absolutely Safe Capsule, which is a capsule which once it's sealed, it can never be opened again, trapping whoever is inside forever in a parallel universe where only them exist. The party is successful in locking Porky in the absolutely safe capsule, so, porky is not hurt by the end of mother 3, instead, he just has been locked away forever in a place far away from everyone else --perhaps, providing the ultimate form of comfort that a personality like his would seek after.

At the end of the game, Lucas and Co. face against the masked man, who is revealed to have been Claus all along, who, brainwashed with Pigmask ideologies, is hellbent on drawing out the final needle to awaken the dragon. Lucas and Claus face off in an emotive fight, where they suddenly remember each other and how friendly they used to be with each other... and moreover, their Mother. Claus strikes Lucas with thunder in a final murderous attempt before snapping out of the Pigmask brainwashing. But since he had the Franklin badge on, the attack is reflected and mortally strikes Claus, who, in his final moments, finally remembers Lucas...

The ending of the game is open ended, without showing much of what happened once the seventh dragon needle was released, so the ending of the game is subject to interpretation. However, it is heavily implied that, since Lucas was the one who released the needle, the dragon, once awakened, did not destroy Nowhere islands and instead led to a regeneration of existence.

Part 3. "A Musical-Adventure"

One of the pre-release materials for the game called it a "Musical" adventure, and I think this is completely warranted: the musical beautifulness of Hip Tanaka, famed Nintendo composer and long-time MOTHER music autheur, is joined by the expertise of Shogo Sakai, who gave the soundtrack a more mature, sample-based vibe, compared to the early two more "chiptuney" soundtracks in the series. The songs are all-time favorites of mine, and I still the soundtrack every so often given all of its mystique, its eclectiness and curiosness.

But the musical aspect to the game doesn't stop here: as an addition to the mother series, the battle system has now been changed to become rhythm-game based instead of simply turn based. If the player attacks an enemy during a battle, it is possible to strike additional damage as long as the player continues to press the attack button in rhythm to the background music in upwards of 16 hits. A full combo is incredibly effective and plays a nice fanfare if executed correctly.

As an enthusiast of rhythm games, this premise captivated me from the get-go and it works wonders, functioning as a breath of fresh air to the way overplayed mechanic of turn-based combat, which has existed since the 80s. It also provides a certain nice feeling to combat, given how every character has their personal musical instrument, with lucas being a guitar, Kumatora being an electric guitar, Duster being a bass, and Boney, Lucas' pet, being... barks.

Besides this the mechanics from Mother 2 are translated almost completely: every character has a rolling HP and PP counter, which rolls down over time as an airport display instead of immediately as in other RPGs. This may seem minor, but it adds an amazing element of strategy to the game, since it is possible to recover an ally from mortal damage if a healing PSI is executed against the clock before the counter hits 0.

Besides this you got almost completely conventional standard JRPG fare, with the character being able to move in eight directions in the overworld, with the addition of a run button, preemptive attacks and overpowered kills. Once you start facing enemies in the overworld, the first one to attack can be decided depending on the angle that the enemy was approached with: sneak up on an enemy from behind and a green swirl will display, which means that you get to attack first; if an enemy sneaks behind you, you'll see a red swirl and they will attack first instead. Otherwise, a gray swirl will display, which follows conventional order according to your stats.

Part 4. "WE WANT MOTHER 3, REGGIE!"

...Mother 3 will never be released in America.

This may be too dramatic of an opinion to have but I see no other alternative. For the most of fourteen years, Nintendo of America's head honcho Reggie Fils-Aime was requested to release and distribute the game in the americas, and for twenty years the request fell on deaf ears, citing commercial inviability, potential copyright infringment and many other reasons.

But I think the main reason that the game will never be localized is because Mother 3 was a passion project, pushed for by people with personal involvement in the series and very special sensitivities about it. Shigesato Itoi and Iwata were personal friends. The game appeals to japanese tastes and touches on issues and subjects that the American population is very politically sensitive to.

For example, in chapter 6 Lucas and the party experience a bad trip because they eat hallucinogenic mushrooms in a swamp. This leads to Lucas having visions of his family in a very bad light, with implications of violence and abuse, to try to get at the players' deepest sensitivities. Even the name of the real player is used here.

I think that it's impossible that nintendo will release a game which openly involves Hallucinogenics no matter its innocent exterior. This is the kind of subject in media that Japanese audiences usually handle better than American audiences.

Besides this, the game has very clear allusions to accelerated capitalism, anti-capitalism, colonization, slavery, transexuality and the changes and chaos they have brought onto the world, which is a tough subject to tackle in the Americas, which is still part of an ongoing, vicious culture war.

Particularly, I adore how the game even tries to convey its points through the Sound Test, of all places. Mother 3 has a collection of music pieces, which are available on demand within the game itself. Of those, there's a music piece which is a remix of Pollyanna, the Mother 1 theme, which is present throughout the series, in an nod to the previous games in the series. The hallway where this plays is full with mother references and it expects the player to sit down and watch passively all the references in order.

But this is meta, amazingly enough. The hallway is located in the final section of the game, before facing Porky, who is presented as the effigy of vicious capitalism in the game. As if he left them in his palace just as collectibles, things to be purchased or acquired.

The name of the song which plays during this sequence? "His Majesty's Memories". Subtle.

Nintendo is a company which tries to keep its image clean and sterile, so it can be used broadly for a variety of projects, usually with family friendly intent behind --and even more so in the US.

However, Nintendo has a history of risky bets with Mature content, which has become even more glaring lately: you got Eternal Darkness, Astral Chain, Bayonetta, No More Heroes, the disappointing Metroid Other M... this together with the fact that most of their target audience is of age now, could, at least remotely, mean that, perhaps, Mother 3 releasing in some manner in the future, localized in English, could happen: however, this is not happening at least the way I see it.

Once the game was released, there were several different campaigns online to try to gather Nintendo's attention: a 10k signature strong petition was completed among several other things, and if this hasn't lead to results... I don't know what will.

Part 5. "No Crying Until the End"

Mother 3 is a beautiful, engrossing and captivating game which is hidden away under a cutesy exterior. Its complex themes and characters are evoking of deep human truths which call out to us and ask us to reflect on things and the way we're living. Of strong pedigree in its series and with a superb musical production behind it and a mastermind of writing, MOTHER 3 excels at what it sets out to do.

When the game released, the game had a "Catch Copy" written for it by itoi himself, which called the game "Strange, Funny and Heartrending", and I think this is a beautiful way to bring everything full circle. Itoi wrote on the Advertisement that if you wanted to cry because of Mother 3, you should save it until the end. And those three words are a fantastic way to close off this review: if you want a game that will provide you with bizarre and laugh out loud moments one second and tear-jerkers the next, Mother 3 is the game for you.

And the game is just so poignant... to this date not only do I think it's one of the most expressive and well done pixel-art based game, I still find myself impresse at how much I can connect with the characters through small, cutesy sprites and pastel color pallettes, lack of Unreal engine and RTX graphics card be damned. Themes of grief, missing a loved one who's gone, the feeling of loss of identity due to accelerating social and economical change, how tyrannical political figures establish themselves and change communities, sexual and identity politics and how the modern world was to have shaky and voraginous sexual identities become commonplace... it's all there, and masterfully, tastefully expressed, without that icky feeling of "agenda"ism that you can get sometimes from Hollywood productions when they try to hamfist tropes and "messages" down people's throats. You know that feeling? I hate it when it happens in movies or shows I'm watching just to have a good time, and then I get some succint propaganda.

But MOTHER 3 is a kind beast, trying to reach to your heart and directly speak to the mind of the player. It tries to show us what it thinks of modernity and to make us seriously ponder what the frick is up with all of this shit, and thinking it has kept me for the last 14 years, and I anticipate another 20 ahead of me. And you can join me in reflecting about this...

Or maybe you can just go back to your happy box. Whichever way you choose.

#works #review #mother 3 #gba #game review #shigesato itoi

[und3rwat3r-a5tr0naut]

Hiii! I was wondering if I could request a mha matchup? And I’ve never seen undertale matchups so I might request a ut matchup after this too :)) Ok a lot of people say I’m rlly sweet, patient, and understanding, but with the right people i can be very talkative and a little sassy sometimes. I ALWAYS make jokes and I always find the humor in everything. Everyone also says I’m very laid back. I’m ambitious and I’m a COMPLETE perfectionist. I’m always just in my own world and people call me out on me zoning out because I’m just head in the clouds (unless it’s sports then I’m very focused) ok I LOVE basketball and drawing and both of which I want to be successful in, listening to music, nighttime, sports in general, day dreaming and doodling. I dislike bugs, public speaking, and pictures of myself. The only thing that really makes me mad is when I fail or make a mistake, but I only get mad at myself so I’ve never gotten mad at anyone else, I’m very patient. My biggest fear is failure, not living up to expectations, and abandonment. Thank you so much you’re amazing!! :))

(Feel free to request an undertale one! I wouldn’t mind at all. Also, the age range wasn’t specified so I made you a student hope that’s ok!)

I match you up with.....Hitoshi Shinsou! (One of my faves UwU)

You met in quite a hilarious fashion. You regularly fed a stray that often wandered near the UA dorms. You didn’t really have a name for him, so every time you called for said cat it was just, “Here, kitty kitty kitty!” You had a small pan in your hands and was walking down the little alleyway between buildings when you bumped into him. 

“Oof.”

You blinked and looked to see that you had totally just smushed tuna all over this boy's chest. Crap crap craaaaaaap! “Watch where you’re going.” Was his immediate response. It was firm, but not harsh. “I am SO sorry!” You apologized profusely to the purple-haired boy. He glanced down at his now ruined uniform. “Great.” He sighed. 

“Mrrrow?”

It was the stray! You quickly explained to him that it was an accident and that you were actually here to feed the stray. He put his hand behind his neck. “Eh. It’s alright, I guess.” He said, though he still didn’t seem too thrilled with his predicament. “Didn't know anyone else looked out for her as well. That’s good to know.” You blinked. “She? I always thought it was a male!” He crouched down and rubbed the cat’s ear affectionately. “Yeah, she.” He said. The cat was practically drooling, trying to crawl up his shirt to get the scraps of food still plastered to his chest. “I can like...totally pay for the dry cleaning or whatever!” You proclaimed, wanting to make it up to him somehow. He glanced at you. “Don’t worry about it.” He said, standing up to full height. “See you later.” He said, walking off, most likely to get a change of clothes. *Cue frustrated internal screaming at yourself*

The next time you saw him, you handed him a small box. “What’s this?” He asked, eyebrow raised in question. “An apology. From me.” You stated. 

“I thought I told you I-....” He stopped when he saw what it was. 

“A...cat cafe coupon?” He asked, raising the small glittering paper into the air. “Well, I thought since you like cats....ya know....” You trailed off. Did he not like it? He let out a small puff of air, an amused smile on his face. “Thanks.” He said, tucking it into his pants pocket. 

This is what starts your guy’s relationship. (At first anyway). He actually saw you when tending to the stray again, and said you might as well go with him to the cafe. If you wanted to that is. Of course, you agreed! (You really wanted to go as well!) It was a nice and quiet evening at the cafe. Cats everywhere. It was amazing. (Plus the coffee/tea was amazing there). You even got complimentary cookies in the shape of cat paws! It was sundown when you guys headed back to the dorms. “That was fun.” You stated. He hummed in response, tired purple eyes glancing at you. “I’ll pay next time.” He said. You raised an eyebrow. “But didn’t you pay this time?” Waitdidhesaynexttime- 

“Technically, you paid for this with that coupon you gave me.” He smirked.

That’s how you two officially got together. He tricked you into going on a date with him. Plenty more cat cafe dates followed that one (Now that you knew they were dates!) Your relationship is very healthy. You two shoot jokes back and forth all the time, and when you’re not together it’s memes via text. Sometimes he might trick you when your zoning out by asking you a question, then brainwashing you. (He always releases you afterward though, he never makes you do anything.) He’ll come to all of your sports if you agree to let him watch. He likes to see you so determined. He’s got his own ambitions of becoming a hero after all. He relates to you very much when it comes to failure. 

He failed to get in the hero course and it frustrates him! You two remind the other that it’s ok, and to pick yourself up! (We stan an encouraging tired boy). He makes his intentions and emotions very plain to you. You won’t have to worry about him abandoning you. He’s made it very clear he’s here to stay. 

(You think I’m amazing? Awww, thanks! You’re amazing too! Hope you like the match up!)

#shinsou imagine #shinsou x y/n #mha matchups #bnha reader insert #bnha #mha shinsou #shinsou hitoshi #bnha matchups

[changbin-froggy-jimin]

Tagged by my lovely Star 🌟 @frillyfairyprincess 💜💜💜💜

ten songs i’ve been listening to lately:

Blue Hour - TXT (this song is so good!! I can’t stop listening! Simply the vibes alone!!! Ahhh!)

Blue Orangeade - TXT (this song has been my favorite to listen to for a very long time, I love everything about it but the silliness is one of my favorite aspects)

Dizzy - ONEUS (Love listening to this one while going to sleep)

Sorry I’m Not Sorry - Monsta X (it’s something so their style, yet not? It just makes me happy overall, even if it’s a sad song, the soft Jazz cafe vibes just make me soft and smiley, feels like rainy night sipping warm tea and feeling comfortable and warm in a nicely lit cafe, maybe before meeting a lover? Idk it just makes me happy and soft)

Last Carnival - Monsta X (do I even need to explain this one? It’s just amazing!!)

UP&DOWN - SHINee (We’ve been listening from the bottom of their discography to the top, we just finished the Sherlock album but this song is still my absolute favorite we’ve listened to yet!)

Gone Days - Stray Kids (A song I just can’t seem to let go, Changbin’s soft smile fills my head every time I listen to it making it a real delight every time, the music video is fun and lovely and the song is soft enough to jam to,and study to, making it perfectly versatile in every aspect!)

Any - Stray Kids (my absolute favorite off the new album, it’s just a really fun and sexy song, deserves to be playing everywhere all the time, literal musical mastery right here!)

It’s Raining Somewhere Else - Toby Fox (Undertale soundtrack) (this song is really soft and notes a very serious mood for the game, but with its rain playing in the background and soft notes it smooths me rather than makes me sad, with weird times it’s just a comfort, a warm blanket wrapped around my shoulders, even if the song itself is cold it makes me feel heard and seen, yet invisible and forgotten, cold yet warm, the perfect balance, I’d recommend this song to anyone but my mom who hates the Undertale ost!)

Wish You Were Here - SuperM (It just makes me happy, vocal line does an amazing job!)

my url in songs

(this would have been so much shorter three weeks ago haha!)

C: Car Radio - Twenty One Pilots (if soulmates could be bands this is mine)

H: Hit And Run - Breathe Carolina (I’ve stuck with their music through extreme genre changes, and I still adore it)

A: After Hours - The Weeknd

N: New Person, Same Old Mistakes - Tame Impala

G: Giving Me A Chance - Gotye

B: Bury A Friend - Billie Eilish

I: Interlude Shadow - BTS

N: Night Fever - Bee Gees

-: 134340 - BTS

F: Fall Away - Twenty One Pilots

R: Round And Round - Imagine Dragons

O: O - Coldplay

G: Gone So Long - Breathe Carolina

G: Goner - Twenty One Pilots

Y: You Can’t Hold My Heart - Monsta X

-: 90210 - Blackbear

J: Jumpsuit - Twenty One Pilots

I: ilomilo - Billie Eilish

M: Midnight - Coldplay

I: If You Can’t Hang - Sleeping With Sirens

Next In Line - Walk The Moon

I’ll tag @chimjimmie @nvmguk @minyoongsueit @ckyunoirs @smallkore @morndas

#I’m sorry this took me so long for whatever reason scrolling through my Spotify so much would make me nauseous?? #to be fair I have almost 3000 songs in my liked songs but like still wild to me that it made me feel bad #feel free to do it or not do it! just have fun you know? whatever that fun may look like for you! #I loved doing this thank you! #I probably should have done it with kpop songs but I kinda wanted it to rep everything I listen to for the most part? #anyways #froggy writes

[froqgy]

☕ (ideal day), ⚡(superpower you'd have), 📚(5 books and a quote from each) ?

☕ HMM to wake up at 8-10am, and hang out with friend(s) in person all day... like to go out and do whatever X’O i would love to hang out at a cafe and just talk and draw the whole time though ;___; one time i went to a (cheap ticket but far seats) musical w a friend and i hated the musical but hanging out w her was soooo much fun. so long as i can hang out w my friends :-]

⚡ pocket dimension outside of time so like. i could take a nap or finish hw -_-

📚 i dont read anymore X_X so i cant come up w anything sorry :’-(

here are game or show quotes i remember instead

“despite everything it’s still you” of course undertale

“and the universe said I love you because you are love“ mc really has me crying

“after all… i have the strongest family by my side...“ hee hee sorry i cant say what this is from but u might be able to guess

i would put a mp100 quote here but i cant remember any rn and i dont remember anything else so that’s it

#thank yew fortis :-) i tried drawing the totoros from memory #ask game

[seertale]

Monsters of the Underground

Sans: SeerTale Sans(about 8) is a shorter(3'5") and fluffier Sans.  His eyes are blue(left) and red(right). He wears a black t-shirt and keeps a gray non-zip sweatshirt tied around his waist in case he gets cold in the snow.  His boots are navy blue and he wears khaki shorts. He loves his brother, Papyrus, though he gets nervous around those bigger than him unless he knows them. This includes Asgore whenever he visits with his dad.  Despite everything, Little Scientist is often the smartest, sometimes smarter than his father, and likes to dress up in a lab coat and pretend to be a scientist when at the Lab with Gaster. This gives him the nickname, "Little Scientist."

Papyrus: SeerTale Papyrus(about 7½) is tall and lanky, a few inches taller(becoming 3'8") than Sans.  His eyes are yellow(left) and red(right). He finds shirts to be annoying sometimes and you can often find him running around with no shirt on, though his usual shirt is white.  He rarely wears sweatshirts but wears salmon boots and light blue jeans. He is quite outgoing and likes to talk to strangers, often helping Sans open up to certain people. He'd do anything for his older brother and wants to, for some odd reason, be a pirate(?) when he grows up, so he is often called, "Young Pirate" or "Papyrite" because Sans tried making a pun with it.  He'll sometimes carry around a fake plastic sword and, when he feels like playing, will point it at something and yell at the top of his nonexistent lungs, "Drop and give me your booty!"(still, ?) This confuses strangers but Sans usually answers the call and pretends to be a scientist that Papyrus captured to track down the buried treasure.

Gaster: SeerTale Gaster(6') is still the Royal Scientists, though he has not fallen into the core yet.  When he is at work, he is decked with a suit under a lab coat in case he needs to take it off for something professional.  At home, he wears casual black sweatpants and a blue hoodie that will later be given to Sans. His eyes are purple(left) and orange(right), causing Sans to often stand to Gaster's left and Papyrus to the right.  His skull has not cracked yet either, though he made the holes in his palms diamonds instead of circles(for effect, as he claims). He is reserved but protective and trustworthy. When he goes to work, he often leaves his kids to be watched by Grillby, though he will sometimes take Sans to work with him when Sans is feeling a bit blue or green.

Grillby: SeerTale Grillby(5'9") is a flame monster who runs a restaurant in Snowdin town.  He likes casual clothes, usually being found with an assortment of hoodies and jeans.  His fire fades from red to blue(top to bottom, not stripes), but doesn't seem like something special unless you're new(there are a lot of colorful things and any relatives that he has are about the same: fading from one color to another).  He is kind and will do anything for anyone, including pay Sans and Papyrus to have them run around and take orders, if only to keep them distracted so they don't break things. If something bad were to happen, you can see him in front of everyone with a weapon he never really wants to take out again.  His armor is sitting on a rack somewhere in his home. Both his armor and his weapon are made to have his fire curl around them and prevent people from hurting him as easily(only his magic fire is dangerous), though he never wears his armor these days.

Asgore: SeerTale Asgore(7'5") is the king of the underground.  His armor is purple and said to be a dyed diamond. His tridents glow indigo and he keeps the crown crest on his chest in black, sticking out against his light blue cape and clothing.  He is upset with humans most of the time after they killed his children, Chara and Asriel, but he struggles to keep a grudge sometimes, more focused on killing humans only when one falls.  When there is no human, he is more focused on keeping all of the monsters safe and some science projects that his science team is working on, including artificial souls and bodies. The grudge with humans changes when he finds out about Marintha being a Soul Seer, letting her live in his castle and guide children who fall.  He promises not to hurt them while they look for other ways to break the barrier.

Toriel: SeerTale Toriel(7') is the goat mom of the underground.  She wears the royal robes(blue with a black crest on the front) no matter where she is.  Often being distressed when the two most recent humans leave without her knowledge, she does her best to keep up on whether or not Asgore has claimed the two souls.  She eventually goes back to the castle when she finds he let Maritha live in the castle to guide children and he promises not to harm them. After that, she works alongside Marintha, often visiting the ruins to get any fallen children while Marintha guides them to different spots.

Muffet: Seertale Muffet usually wears a white to pink fade silk dress(spider silk to be exact) and doesn't seem as intent on killing humans for being "stingy with their money".  She still runs a cafe but will only attack if you tick off her friend, Grillby, or attempt to hurt someone. You can donate often in your time in the underground and the spiders will deliver treats and food to you for free in battles if you happen to be in one.  She is kind and a wonderful cook, often working with Grillby to sell treats and food, thanks to complaints from numerous humans about her only selling desserts. Unlike in UnderTale, She does not sell a spider doughnut for 9999 gold.

Undyne: SeerTale Undyne is much more peaceful in this world, though still able to duplex a boulder.  She doesn't wear her armor as often, finding herself able to defend easier with just her spears.  She wears a red tank top and leggings. The royal crest is on the shoulder of her armor to mark her as a royal guard.  She may be aggressive towards humans but, once she finds out Marintha is a Soul Seer, she changes to protect any humans from those like Elinada.  Being kind to almost all monsters(except Jerry) and protective over everyone she cares about, she will throw herself in front of Grillby, if Grillby happens to be there.  Her spears remain blue to remind her of Waterfall, the spot she likes most.

Alphys: SeerTale Alphys is quite smart and likes to help teach Sans about certain things.  Her scales fade from yellow to orange(top to bottom) and she is usually adorned with a lab coat, though if she wants something else, she will wear a nice looking dress.  In SeerTale, she is more confident, being capable of getting rid of her stutter without much of a problem. She still has a crush on Undyne and loses some confidence when talking to her, but eventually gains enough confidence to successfully flirt with her.

Mettaton: SeerTale Mettaton is the rectangle he is, just changing his board to be more colorful.  He finds little sympathy for Marintha until he finds out from a broadcast by Asgore that she is a Royal Seer.

Elinada: Elinada(16 years, 4’7”) is a murderous human who was pulled down into the underground by Maritha.  She was the one that pushed Marintha into the underground. She knows what the humans have done to the monsters and has the sense to kill anyone and everyone who isn't a monster.  She has pretty dark brown hair, with practically black eyes, and what was naturally tan skin that got pale from the underground. A dark hoodie was pretty established, and she has light denim jeans. Wears grey and white sneakers.  She knows that Marintha is in the underground and attempts to hunt down and kill her, not knowing that she’s blind.

Marintha: Marintha(18 years, 5’) is the human who is pushed down into the underground and found to be a Soul Seer.  Her left hand was burned off when some boys pushed her into a fire(whether it was accidental or on purpose is unknown) and replaced with a cybernetic one.  Because of the fire, a scar from the burn goes halfway up her forearm and she doesn't really like being touched by Grillby due to him being a fire monster. She has blue eyes and brown hair and usually keeps the scar and hand a secret, hiding it with long sleeves and gloves or pockets until she decides to open up.  Her attire when she falls is a galaxy sweatshirt tied around her waist, dark blue jeans tucked into black and gray boots and a gray t-shirt. Once the armor is made for her, it is crafted to look like a galaxy when the light shines on it just right to express her ever-growing knowledge due to her being a seer. Its helmet is shaped to have wolf ears as if to help her blend in with monsters.  The chest piece has a blade-proof soul container for her soul to rest if she ever encounters a battle. This is so, if her body is not saveable, a monster can pick up her soul and they can put it into a new body, much like with Mettaton. The shoulders have spikes coming off them and her gauntlets are adorned with small barbs to cause more damage when punching someone, only if needed. The Royal Crest is adorned on the chest.  Everything else follows the main shape of her body but remains extremely flexible, allowing her to move quickly if she needs it. They tested her armor so it is gaster-blaster proof for a short period of time. Marintha is kind, even through her blindness, though she can sense which soul is who. This is how she properly avoids enemies unless she has guards with her. Once she becomes the Royal Seer, she guides the children Toriel bring around the castle, bringing them to different spots safely and making sure they don’t encounter Flowey, all waiting for the barrier to break so they can go home.

Soul Seers: here

Monsters of the Underground: You are here

Prologue: here

Chapter 1: here

#seertale #au #undertale

[weia-yo]

Make Our Garden Grow (outline)

So back in december I wrote the first chapter to a planned fic for the undertale secret santa (@undertalesecretsanta) and have unfortunately been struggling to write the rest of it. I’ve decided (with @frankpanioncube‘s permission) to post this fairly long outline/summary so that anyone who was interested in where the story was leading would still get to know what happened. I hope y’all enjoy!

(if you wanna reread ch. 1 you can find it here)

ch 2: Reader pov, Papyrus (offscreen) launched a bone attack at a politician and reader was helping the embassy pr department trying to make it less of a big deal (not that difficult because everyone loves the co-ambassador and agreed the politician dude was being a jerk).

Reader and Asgore (still known to reader as Gar-Dad-ner) joke via email about this and Asgore mentions he's glad human reception to monsters has been fairly good while hinting he was worried it would be very not good. Reader assures him that the embassy is doing it's part to help out and (having guessed that Gar-Dad-ner is a monster) offers to help him personally if he needs it.

ch 3: Asgore pov, a couple months later Asgore starts thinking about his growing friendship with a random stranger, and a human at that. He ruminates on how her working at the embassy probably means she's relatively close by and he could conceivably meet her, though he enjoys being able to build an anonymous friendship without having to keep up appearances and worries maybe her finding out who he is would mess with that somehow.

Later he gets a message from her asking what he looks like because she's curious. Despite his concerns he decides he trusts her enough and sends her a photo. She initially reacts with shock and a tiny bit of disbelief but realizes it actually is him, and then sends him a pic as well. It occurs to Asgore after several minutes of staring at her photo that he thinks she's cute.

ch 4: Reaver pov, she's reeling a bit from realizing Asgore is her online friend, but she decides it doesn't really matter; she likes talking with him and that's not about to change. The only thing that changes is the fact that she thinks he's kinda cute, which she tries to kibosh as there's a thousand reasons that wouldn't work out.

So she does her tasks as usual and looks forward to talking to Asgore again. He then asks if she's going to attend the Gala  because it might be a good opportunity to meet face to face. Still squishing down her feelings (albeit less successfully) she says yes.

ch 5: Asgore pov, at the gala, he notices the same flower arrangements he saw that day at the embassy he helped Reader make but he can't find her anywhere. He tries to be discreet and asks around for who arranged the bouquets and learns she's apparently home sick. Slightly concerned now, he pulls away for a moment to message her.

ch 6: Reader pov, she's sitting home alone not doing much. She gets a few notifications and ignores them, not feeling up to interacting with anyone. Reader then gets the more intrusive tone of a voicechat invite and realizes it's from Asgore, so she picks it up. He says he was worried because he heard she was sick. She's evasive, trying to say she's not that sick even though she decided to stay home, but Asgore presses her.

She finally gives the mostly true answer that she didn't think she would fit in at the gala and lied because she didn't think people would understand. Asgore goes a bit quiet and tells her he can't leave until the gala ends but still wants to meet her and asks where would be the most convenient. As most places would be closed she sheepishly suggests her house, which Asgore very happily agree to. Reader then scrambles around for a minute trying to organize things before deciding it would be better if Asgore saw the mess and didn't think she was more put-together than she actually was.

ch 7: Asgore pov, he's nervous. He goes up to her apartment and she lets him in. They exchange small talk for a minute before Reader admits she hasn't been fully honest. She tells Asgore the reason she skipped out on the gala/felt like she wouldn't fit in was because she didn't feel 'important' enough to be there. In her words she's just a secretary helping out people doing the 'real' work, that the only real significant thing she did was make some bouquets for an office party that they liked enough to reuse for the gala and she didn't even come up with the arrangement.

Asgore tells her that she actually is important, and she starts to respond that she probably is if she got his attention but he cuts her off before she can finish; he has nothing to do with it, she's important no matter who she is to other people and that trying to base your self worth on who you are to other people can be very damaging (strong hints that he had to learn that due to going through a more severe version). Reader feels a little better at that and thanks him. After a bit of silence and letting everything sink in she decides to admit she likes Asgore and asks him out on a date, and he accepts.

ch 8: Reader pov, the next day they go to a monster cafe Asgore recommended (added benefit that the standard clientele wouldn't be weird about Asgore and a random human eating dinner there). It's nice and subtle, basically feels like a regular hangout between friends but with an extra romantic undertone. They finish that up but Reader doesn't want to go home yet and asks Asgore if there's anything else he wants to do, so he suggests going for a walk in the Forgotten War memorial park (pointedly not named by asgore) which Reader has never visited.

It's pretty, has soft lighting, feels a lot more overtly romantic than the dinner and they start holding hands. A few minutes later they stop at the primary feature of the park; the garden Asgore planted and helps maintain. Then Asgore remembers she might not like it because of her recent flower-related issue and starts apologizing, but Reader tells him she loves them.

What she wanted to tell him was that the only issue she had with the flower arrangement stuff was that she felt obligated to do so because nobody else was available, while this garden was clearly something Asgore genuinely cared about and that she greatly appreciated that he wanted to show it to her, but in that moment she couldn't figure out how to properly sort all those feelings into words.

So instead, taking advantage of the fact that Asgore is crouched down over the flowers and thus not towering over her, she walks over to kiss him.

#asgore #asgore/reader #undertale secret santa #undertale #writing #make our garden grow

[shesahershey]

Everything about me!

I'm bored and have nothing else to do, so here's everything about me!

My birthday's November 30th

I have 9 pets

My middle name is Nicole because that's what my mom originally wanted my first name to be

My sign is Sagittarius (not that I care lmao)

My favorite color is purple

I have low iron (I swear, I am going to pass out one day from doing something too quickly)

I have 27 ocs

I am working on a book explaining and following those ocs ( https://www.wattpad.com/story/82557802-adventurers-of-my-mind )

I am a cartoonist

I am Depressed

I am Anxious

I have ADHD

I will play games instead of working

Music is everything to me (I seriously can't do shit without it)

I love all music besides Country and Screamo

I am chill 24/7

Piss me off and I will daydream about hurting you

Hurt me and I will beat the shit out of you

Hurt my friends and I will make sure you are nothing but a bloody pulp on the sidewalk.

Violent when need be

Uses videogames to escape reality and take out violence

The quiet kid

People freak out when I talk

Will do anything to make you feel better

Bisexual

Gender Fluid

9 year old stuck in a 16 year old's body

I can't move on from the past

Childhood trauma

Lost my mom when I was 9

I am TERRIFIED of roaches.

Hyper-spikes when I get little to no sleep

Fandoms I am or was into: Hetalia, Eddsworld, Undertale/Deltarune and the AU's, FNAF Night Guards (idk if that's the right name???) Portal, Subnautica, and Minecraft

Will make inside jokes that only I know (Russian Snowman Cafe hehe)

Steals personalities to make people like me more (or so I think)

Two of my characters are almost carbon copies of other characters that inspired their design/personality because I just wanted them to be subtle nods (I regret it, but what can I do? I like how they are)

I love everyone for who they are unless you are LGBTQ+ Phobes, Terfs, Pedophiles, Beastiality, and Necrophilia. Then you may die in the worse way possible.

I love animals, hurt them and I will beat you with a bat until each and every bone is broken.

I talk to myself (Yourself knows yourself best)

"Anything's better than nothing" is my motto

Curses 24/7

Scars from Depression

Do not say, "Hey, we need to talk." I will go into a panic and think about everything I have done since birth.

Skin is delicious. (I need to stop eating myself...)

Bruises easily

I am thicc

Bust size is a goddamn 36-38 D. (Help me.)

Tiddies either fit the bra perfectly or flop out.

3 curves in my spine (genetics suck.)

Shoulders are uneven (fuck that backpack I had in 5th grade.)

I have had 3 real crushes

I have had 7 or more fictional crushes

Wings are AWESOME

I buy a ton of socks and lose every single one until there's only two or three left

Stuff animals give me life

Borderline hoarder (just for things I like or bought with my money)

My room is an abomination (where is anything??????)

I am a dog person (no patience for cats)

"If I don't align my feet with the tiles, I will die."

Tons of memes on my phone which I will not get rid of

I want to live in 2012

Either great or terrible with lying

I can't stay still

I will stare and space out

I think everyone is watching me so I'm cautious and freaking out about how I do things

I worry a lot

Cold most of the time

I jiggle when I walk

My thighs are too thicc, if I'm not in pants, they will rub against each other and it HURTS

I still have my Wii and my TV is the only one in my house that can play it

I'm somewhat flexible

Sweet treats keep me going

I can cook breakfast and that's it

I want to drive but I'm afraid

I spend almost an hour in the bathroom (I like the solitude)

I'm the opposite of Claustrophobia, I LOVE small places

I want to live in the forest

I am terrified of my family

When I'm sleeping, my legs cannot be close to each other (gotta do that Mario jump)

I will only buy shoes if I really need them

I buy things that make me happy (lots of money, gone...)

"If it still works, don't buy a new one." Is something I say for anything

Will look like a slut if I'm feeling it and then regret it later

I can whistle inwards

I avoid eye contact when talking to people because I feel awkward

I say "Drawl" and "Drawling" instead of "Draw" and "Drawing"

Make a Texan joke or stereotype and I will love it (yeehaw pardner)

Accents are AMAZING

I've made friends online and trust them with everything and love them to pieces

I want to travel and see my internet friends

I stopped biting my nails

I want to animate, but: I can't find the right batteries for my pen, I lost my pen, and my screen is messed up and hardly recognizes my pen

I will not judge you

I have a collection of bottle caps (ready for a fallout baby)

I cry easily

I will scream if I'm excited

My favorite song is "1/4" by VocaCircus/CircusP

I hate realism. (Let me draw how I WANT.)

My real personality? I don't know her

I have 1,945 songs

I live in the past and will not move on

Clay is REALLY GOOD

I lose track of what I'm talking about and switch left and right

I might forget I've said or showed you something and will say it or show it again

Sometimes I see small white lines that crawl around my eyes and then they disappear (it's like looking down at sugar ants)

I have missed out of really good shows, like Invader Zim, because I thought I wouldn't like it, them I'm like, "Hey, that looks pretty cool actually" and then it stops airing.

I have loads of freckles on my face and arms

My hair is curly, but since it's short, you can't really see it

I have a good singing voice

I LOVE pools and water parks

I've always wanted to learn an instrument, but decided drawing and writing was right for me

Hockey is my favorite sport (got that Canadian heart baby)

I've only seen snow twice (Texas sucks.)

My favorite character is Russia from Hetalia (I LOVE THAT BOY SO MUCH)

I want to learn a different language, but Jesus fuck, that takes so much effort

I'm patience

I love puzzle games

My favorite number is 3

I wear oversized shirts and jackets

I do really well in school until I gain the teacher's trust, and then do nothing for the rest of the year because they know I'll do it

I love science

I despise math

All of my oc's are a piece of me, merge them together and you get me

I have dark circles that won't go away

Fluffy things are GREAT

Soft things are BEAUTIFUL

I love galaxies

And that's all I can think of! Hope you liked learning about me!

#this was surprisingly fun #long post #very long post #hersh talks

[tournesolia]

Not translation related but I just noticed I got tagged two times by @kanabrowakesmeupinside for the “Tag your fandoms” and “2nd Diabolik Tag”. I didn’t think I would be tagged like this one day but thanks. xD And don’t worry I don’t mind doing these at all ! (even if some questions were awkward lol)

Everything is under the cut if you want to read.

1.  Tag your fandoms

Bold the fandoms you were/are in–

Diabolik Lovers | Mystic Messenger | Pokemon | Hetalia | Black Butler | Boku no Hero Academia | Homestuck | Naruto | One peice | Voltron | Overwatch | Undertale | Yandere Simulator | Dragon Ballz | Sailor Moon | Detective Conan/Case Closed | Banana Bus Squad/Vanoss Crew |Markiplier/Jacksepticeye/Pewdiepie| Nintendo| Sherlock Homles/Supernatural/Dr.Who | Rick and Morty | Riverdale | Sonic the hedgehog | the Adventure Zone | Avatar/Lengend of Korra | Steven Universe | Disney | Yuri On Ice | Miraculous Ladybug | Musicals | Marvel/DC | Harry Potter/Hogwarts | BTS | Got7 | EXO | Gibli Studio | Creepypasta

... Yes, that’s pretty much all. I hesitated to bold ‘Undertale’ since I liked this game but never really was part of its fandom.

I could also add Touhou/Okami/Danganronpa but they aren’t here, too bad !

2.  2nd Dialovers Tag!

Rules: Simply answer the questions and also Tag me if you are going to do this because I want to and I would love to read your answers~! and Tag anyone else you want to~

*doesn’t intend to tag anyone because doesn’t really know anyone here + too shy >.<*

1.- Who would you rather take to a night club, Carla or Azusa?

Maybe Carla, just to see his reaction when we go there. xD

2.- In a Science test would you copy Yuma’s test or Ayato’s test?

Err... I think Ayato would be the one to copy on me on a Science test. I think Yuma is more serious than Ayato. I hope he won’t catch me doing this though or I’ll get problems...!

3.- Would you rather have Kino and Azusa or Shin and Laito, as your Butlers?

Clearly. I don’t think the other duo would be loyal to me (especially Shin).

4.- Go on a date with Reiji at a Aquarium or go on a date with Subaru at a Cafe instead?

I really like aquariums, so I’d totally go there (even if I like less Reiji than Subaru ^^”).

5.- Would you rather go support/see Kou at one of his Concerts or go support/see Shu at one of his Violin Performances?

Even if I like Kou more than Shu, I don’t really like Concerts because they’re generally noisy (with fans screaming for example, and I hate that)... Classical music is much more calming ~

6.- In a Math Project would you team up with Ruki and Shin or with Reiji and Yuma?

Errr... I don’t know. I just picked by feeling. :v

7.- Who would you put your bets on, Kanato eating the most chocolates or Ayato eating the most Takoyakis?

I think they’re both capable of doing that, so I picked the one I want to support because he’s one of my favorite. xD

8.- Sleep in Carla’s room, Subaru’s room or in Shu’s room? (You have the room to yourself, they aren’t there) Would you peak on their stuff?

Hesitated between Shu and Carla lol (I don’t want to sleep on a coffin, sorry Subaru !). I’ll pick Shu since I’ll be not very confortable with sleeping in a KING’s bedroom... And hell no, I respect their privacy, and I wouldn’t want anyone to peak at my stuff sooo...

9.- You’re a princess of the Victorian era! Your father has ordered that you have a bodyguard.. who would you choose as your personal bodyguard, Laito or Kou?

Preference. And I feel like he’ll be more reliable than Laito. x)

10.- Would you prefer to have Kino in his bat form as your pet or Shin in his wolf form as your pet instead?

I like wolves so why not ~

11.- Break a fight between Kou and Ayato or between Laito and Kanato?

Err... I don’t know... Let’s pick the first one because I don’t think I’ll be able to calm down the other two, especially Kanato.

12.- Who would you kiss on the cheek, who would you kiss on the forehead and who would you kiss on the left eyelid?

These quesitons are getting awkward omg. xD

Err... Kou on the cheek, Subaru on the forehead and Azusa on the left eyelid (I think he’ll be the only one to do that)

13.- Take care of Shu and Reiji in their Chibi form or take care of Subaru and Kino in their Chibi form?

I prefer Subaru and Kino so I’ll go with these two.

14.- Sing/Perform in public Laito’s Q.E.D Song or Reiji’s Mr.ButterflyMask song?

I never listened to any of the two musics so... I really can’t answer, sorry.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

15.- Would you rather wear Ruki’s casual outfit or Yuma’s casual outfit? 

Just because I prefer Ruki’s outfit.

16.- Go on a Vacation trip with Shu, Kino and Ayato at a Amusement park or go with Shin, Azusa and Subaru at a Water Amusement Park?

I love Water Amusement Parks (and there’s Azusa in the group).

17.- Would you rather get lost in a forest with Reiji, Kino and Kou or with Ruki, Carla and Kanato?

I think the atmosphere will just be less tense with the first group than the second, and I prefer that, I’d be more at ease.

18.- Who would you cook breakfast for? Who would you make a scarf for? and Who would you do a drawing for?

Breakfast for Subaru, scarf for Kou and drawing for Azusa ~

19.- Participate in a Circus as Carla’s Knife thrower assistant or go to a Casino with Shin and be offered as a bet/reward by him in the Roulette Wheel game? (So if Shin looses you’ll be taken away by whomever won)

I’d prefer trust Carla’s knife throwing skills than Shin’s luck...

20.- Who would you rather catch by accident taking a shower, Yuma or Kanato?

Yuma would just tease me about it. Kanato would give me a bad time I think, so no...!