#ill see about gettin some stuff here at some point soon

[semisolidmind]

sorry for no art recently, school has been holding me for ransom

and that ransom has yet to be paid

#projects have been eating up all my drawing time #yours truly thought itd be a good idea to do 2 separate multi page comics for two different classes #so those are occupying most of my time currently #ill see about gettin some stuff here at some point soon

[reddogf13]

Outlast 2: Deliverance CH 4

Also on A03

Status: Incomplete

Rated: M - Dead Dove Do Not Eat This takes place in the Outlast 2 universe after all.l.

Previous chap: CH 3: Atonement

Next chap: CH 5: Deluge

_______________

~Ch:4 Eucharist~

Blake handed out basic orders to everyone else. “Fix what you can. Gather up everything that could be useful.” They spread from him down the town streets. Some fixing their own houses that collapsed from the major storm. Gathering chunks of metal buried partly in the mud. Barbwire taken down wherever it remained tied.

He went out to find the farmers followed by Marta. They were working on gathering what they could. Hanging the cobs looking mostly dark. A few rotten tomatoes on a table having its seeds plucked out. A few sacks of potatoes covered in fresh roots set aside. Approaching James to check in. “How are things going?”

“Better than first expected. Scoured the fields and found all of that left in the dirt.” Waving the knife he was using toward the collected stuff. Using the blade to scrape out more seeds from mushy tomatoes. “The potatoes were at the back of the barn regrowin' on their own. We can plant them right away if you want?”

“Uh… What do you use to water all of this? The lake and river?”

“River only, why?”

“I don't know if it's poisoned or not. There were a lot of dead fish when I crossed the lake.”

“Yeah, we worried about that. Many of us noticed it depends on which part you were at. Down round the main river the mines leached out to it. Spreading further into the lake. Anybody who drank from there suffered some serious illness. Us, meanwhile on the split river creek did fine. Long as you didn't eat the fish jumping up and down river rapids in between.”

“So the creeks fine, but fish aren't?”

“We can strictly take northern river water and be safe. Otherwise there ain't much more we can do. Canned food we can live off of a little while longer. Have to mention though that our pantries are gettin' tight. Something Knoth always made a point of not mattering.” James repeatedly side eyed Marta for a reaction. Faking the priest's voice next. “ “Ignore your empty bellies for soon we'll be feasting off God's harvest in heaven.”. ” Dropping the act. “I think he sang a different tune in private.”

“True. Can't live strictly off hunting for forever. Sounds like you didn't have the same faith.”

“Hard to after a while.” Watching Marta. “Faith works like food. Can be good for ya or bad. With Knoth we had a black moldy loaf of bread. Starved, we ate in the hopes it'd kill the pains. Deep down I think we all knew it only made things worse. Made us sick from the inside out. Might take some longer than others to see it. This place used to be better, not so rotten, although I admit it still had its dark spots that we ignored. I pray from here we can get better.”

Blake breathed out a “Yeah.” Telling James to plant the potatoes despite the concern about their water. Asking next. “What's with all the tall fences and barbed wire?” Didn't know you could put corn in a max security prison.

“Couple reasons, Thieves or escapees. Certain people ate first and the rest got desperate for scraps.”

“Mm, I don't think it's necessary anymore. Break them down If you have some free time.” Finishing his check in. Passing through town to try and find the group of hunters. Wanting to learn himself how to trap and forage. Marta limping beside him had him think of what she should be doing. Can't be an enforcer anymore, shouldn't have been in the first place. I guess every town needs a sheriff to break up disputes though. Won't have to kill anyone, she's intimidating enough to stop people from fighting. But her limp could drag her down if things get serious. Feeling bad that she was limping to follow him everywhere. “You don't have to come. You can rest at home if that's better for you.”

“No.” She stated then spoke out what sounded like an excuse. “I won't miss the word of a visiting Angel.”

“I'm not- … What if the angel tells you to go home?”

She let out a rough hum. “... Then I'll go home.”

“Then go home.” He stopped and so did she.

An annoyed bible verse mumbled before she asked. “What will you be doing?”

“Learn how to trap and forage until the day ends. I'll come back and maybe we'll all get to eat something that's not canned. Go home and rest your ankle.”

“It's fine, I can still move.”

“You shouldn't be walking on it. I'm ordering you to go rest.” Smiling at her mumbled along verses when turning to leave. Splitting with one heading up the mountain and the other down. Traveling around the forest while keeping Temple Gate in sight he found the group of hunters. Gathering around a cluster of berry bushes. Listening to John explain trapping while they worked. Blake was greeted as he joined in. Caught up to where they were in the lesson. Reported to on where rabbit wires were set in the hopes they'd snag something. Based on how many baskets of berries they collected he hoped everyone would get at least a small bowl's worth. Having some luck with the rabbit wires. Not enough for everyone between the small numbers caught. It turned into a topic of who would get some.

John stated what felt like the obvious. “You should take one.”

“No, there are a lot worse than me.” Wish I could feed everyone with a single rabbit. “Think we'll find anything else today?” Taking in the sun approaching the horizon.

“Maybe, up on the mountain side we used to find a ton of edible plants. Wild onions to carrots were up there. Don't know how much we'll find now. Since heretics were running rampant all through these woods.”

Blake nearly choked on his spit at the mention. “You think we'll see any?”

“I'm sure we won't. This is considered a bit far from where they normally spread out. Long as we keep heading west toward the sun set.”

“Mm… If we do find anything we could try and make a soup. Boil everything in a big pot, if we have one. Keep starvation back for a day.”

“Sounds good. I know a lot of leafy greens that should be up there. Not as filling as actual vegetables, but good for now… What will you do about the heretics?”

“... I don't know. … Feels weird calling them heretics still. They were just people who wanted to escape Knoth.” Stomach churning on the topic. “I rather not get involved unless I have to.” Ending the topic there to press forward up the mountain. Collecting various edible plants that satisfied Blake's needs for a soup. No carrots, but they found onions along with a collection of mushrooms on a tree. Their group took a break at the mountain's top to eat a small collection of edible flowers. Some weren't flavorful while some were a bit sour like lemons. Blake winced at his shoved down handful making him drool excessively. Unsure if chewing them of flavor felt better compared to harshly swallowing early. At least he caused others to chuckle at his ridiculous eating. Happy to have a little something in his stomach after so long. “Think we'll make it back by nightfall?”

“Just about.” John partly covered his eyes to see how low the sun was set. “Dinners gonna be late by the time we finish cooking it.” Carving bits out of a branch making the rough shape of a fox.

“Heh, I used to carve stuff like that. Haven't since I left scho-” His happy memory ruined by another. Jessica... I should have carved a rock for her too. Even if it's been years. By the change in Blake's expression John offered him the small carving knife.

“You can have it if you want. They're easy to make.”

“You sure?” He perked up at the small gift.

“Yeah, got five more at home. I lose them constantly.”

“Thanks.” He glanced around him for something to carve. I could make something to place at the graves. Locking onto a dead looking sapling sticking straight from the ground. Its measly branches bare of any leaves with its bark sun bleached white. Tall yet thin enough to fully grasp with a hand. Should be easy enough to take a chunk off. Grabbing onto the whole thing to yank back. Discovering it to be far sturdier than it looked. Shoving it back and forth to yank its roots free.

“Uh, I could find you some wood?” John offered. Watching Blake continue to struggle against the dead sapling.

“No, I'm not letting this tree win.” Blake joked through his fight. Ripping it enough to pop it free of the earth. Coming out with it was a smooth rock the sapling grew around. “Wow.” He turned it over for a closer look. No wonder it was so sturdy. Dirt brushed away from the roots thick as its own branches. Taking in the whole thing he was excited to start carving. Wanting to spare a lot of it with only a few extra twigs shaved off its branched top. Woodworking was one of the few classes he loved and was exceptionally well at. He cleaned the sapling of any sprouting branches down to a long straight shape. Smaller stringy roots snipped away for a cleaner look. Preserving the smooth rock it had attached itself to. Carving the rough shape of a snake winding down its long length. The head of it coiled just under the rock in a winded back position. Threatening to strike out from under the rock. That was as far as he got before they started to head back. Blake worked hard to carefully carve out the criss crossing scales down the serpent.

Forced to stop when it got too dark to work. Pausing for the moment when they returned to the dining hall. Setting up a whole makeshift process to cook dinner for a mass of starving people. Huge pots gathered to cook chunks of prepared rabbit followed by the various veg. Collected baskets of berry's delicately spread out by the cupful. If there were any extras they'd be put aside for tomorrow. The town was gathered in to be lined up for their dinner. Pots brought out to a bar top outside the kitchen doors for soup to be poured into bowls. Given a cup of berries as a strange side of sorts, but nobody was complaining.

Blake skipped eating for now to finish his carving in the kitchen. Off to the side was a small carved out dove. A fake banner around its neck donning the name Jessica. He planned to place it soon on the stone graves. Smoothing out the last few angles of the rattlesnake currently. Smiling over his finished staff of white turned black surrounding the stone still attached. Its shape resembled a bulky hammer that would surely kill someone if slammed down hard enough. Various open areas between the snake lightly carved to show imprints of leafy ground litter. Satisfied that no more needed to be done he left the kitchen to find Marta. Asking around he found out she finished eating a while ago and was back on patrol. He ignored any offerings of food to take before going back out. Wanting to give the walking staff to her soon as possible. Running around in the dark for her going by vague memories of her patrol. Eventually she found him first, leaning against a building to catch his breath.

“Come to find me, Angel?”

“Yes, and you don't have to call me that. Blake's fine.” Wheezing for more air. “Made you this.” Offering her the walking staff. She inspected it up and down without a move to take it. In fact she leaned away from it. Realizing he'd have to do some convincing. “I thought you would need it to walk. It's lighter than the … Last thing. ... Pretty sure with the rock you could still crack a skull.” Based on her negative reaction he was quick to follow up with. “But I saw it more of a defense thing. Better to have and not need than the other way. Everything's fine now, but if anybody needed saving I'm sure you can do it. I promise that I'll never ask you to kill anyone.”

Given an honest promise she took the staff from him. A soft spoken. “Thank you.” given back.

“Welcome.” Turning to visit the child's graves next.

“You want me to watch the streets tonight?” Using the staff to walk more smoothly by his side.

“Well, you don't have to. If people want to run they can.”

“What about the heretics?”

“... Yeah. Keep an eye out. Just scare them away, you don't have to hurt them… Should stop calling them heretics too.” Delicately placing Jessica's white dove between some stones across the grave site.

“Then what are they?”

He walked silent as he thought of a new term. Can't call them outsiders. I didn't like that when Knoth used it against me. Strangers? But they're not really. Could call them survivors, but isn't everyone? Just use them or people, but if we need to talk about them it could get confusing. Them just seems rude and ostracizing. Developing a headache from the running in circles he was doing. Settled on a label he himself thought was stupid, but felt right. “Goats.”

“Goats?” Marta's brows furrowed. “Why that?”

“It sounds better that the mountains are infested by goats then heretics.”

“What shall goats be called then when differentiating?”

“They'll be heretics.” Letting out a light chuckle. Marta let out an amused puff of air while giving him a questioning look. It was the first time he didn't see Marta so depressingly serious.

“If that's what the angel wants. I'll watch out for visits by “Goats”.”

“Make sure you get some sleep.”

“More plans for tomorrow?”

“Nothing like today. More rebuilding, more hunting for food.” Entering the dining hall to collect his serving. Long cold by now from when it was set aside. “It takes so long to gather everyone. I don't want to interrupt things so often.”

“The speaker horns still work after the storm. I can see the green light out the room's window. It was the best way for word to travel without physically doing so.”

Ugh, then I have to use something Knoth touched. Finishing his small meal. “Can you show me?”

“I can.” Leading him off toward a large two story house. Neighboring the compound near the helicopter crash site. Fully white with pillars lining the front with a second story balcony. The two front doors boarded over where the glass panels were broken out. A green light shown through a front lower window. Blake checked the doors and found them unlocked. Stepping through he saw the insides far more decorated then other places. Nice large rugs covering the floors. Many paintings covering walls blocked by fine carvings and vases.

Stepping to the radio room he saw Marta staying back outside. “Not coming?”

“This was Knoth's home.”

Of course it is. “Oh… Well, he's not here anymore.” Coaxing her to step inside. Waiting for her to duck under the doorway before moving deeper inside. Taking in the long set up radio controls. Most he figured out were to alert what was connected and what wasn't. The ones on were green, but many more were blacked out. “Do you know where “Eastern top road” is?”

“A road leading up toward goat infested forest.”

“Makes sense.” Other unlit labels saying eastern this or that. John said the goats were spreading out around there. Pressing a button that was labeled “talk”. “Testing.” His voice heard loud and clear from outside. “Heh, still works.” His smile dropped when he found an orange medicine bottle sitting out not far. Swiping it to read the label. “Prescribed to Ethel Garrison. Penicillin G Benzathine - (100mg) to be taken twice daily for 14 days.” Hmm, still in date. Must've bought these from someone recently. Pouring himself a couple to swallow down dry. “We need to find more of these.” Holding the bottle up for Marta to see.

“... Those aren't study aids, are they?”

“No, They're antibiotics for all the diseases around here. I said he could've helped the scalled at any time. These are how.” Rattling the bottle before setting it in a pocket on his vest. Facing her, she had a burning glare pointed toward the floor. “Did you know?”

“None were allowed to ask, but still others spoke about- ... I was told to quiet them…”

“How'd people know? A guess?”

“Us who are older once lived on the outside. Convinced by Knoth and rejected by others, we followed him en masse. 'till we settled here. I was far younger then.”

“You've been outside? How long ago?”

“Mm.” She hummed in thought. “'Bout more than 40 years past since.”

“That's - that's a while.” He nervously chuckled. “Has anyone been out recently?”

“Jacob has. His last visit may have been a month away now. He was sent out to lead a small group for buyin’ a list. Stuff we couldn't make like gas for the generator, “study aids”, to name a few. Don't remember seein' his fellow travelers around.”

“We'll have to find him tomorrow. It's time for another trip.” Leaving the radio room to snoop around the place. Drawers filled by many other bottles left empty. More canned food Blake noted to take back when done. Upstairs he found an office covered in drafts of his gospel. Swept away into the trash bin until it was over filled by Blake. Buried under a pile of fallen papers was a huge floor safe. “Whoa, wonder what Knoth's got in here.” He grabbed an iron poker by the empty fireplace. Using it as a makeshift crowbar to stab along the sides. Managing to stab it in between the door to force it up. He could wedge it enough to see the door bending up, but not enough to break it. Even with him leaning his whole weight onto the bar.

“Want me to try?”

Blake couldn't answer through his wheezing, giving a tired head nod as he stepped back. Marta set her staff to the side to grip the poker. Slamming it down firmly with a shout that cracked the safe door free. Thrown back to slam into the floor behind it. The poker itself stuck dented in a curve tossed aside by her. Both peered down into the large hidden safe.

“Guess this solves one problem.” Pulling out a huge brick of cash. A quick flip told him it was indeed all hundred dollar bills. Laying down on the floor he dipped his head into the dark space. Surprised there was a ladder below buried in the pile. Counting the stacks sitting on stacks of hundreds then sitting back up to stand. “Without messing up the stacks I'm guessing there's at least 9 million on the surface alone. If this thing is six feet deep it might be closer to 27 million. When we find Jacob we'll take some of this and buy everything we can to get things running again.”

“Like what?”

“A shit ton of seeds for one. Fuel to keep the generator running.” Grabbing a nearby empty prescription bottle off a window sill. “And pills, a lot of them.”

“You planning to help the scalled?”

“What kind of angel would I be if I didn't?” Setting the bottle back. “I don't think there's anything else here. Meet me at the hall tomorrow. Bring Jacob if you find him.”

#outlast 2 #blake langermann #outlast 2: deliverance #marta outlast #temple gate #val outlast

[troph4eum]

Overcoming Toxicity

aight so 4 months ago i wrote this song called overcoming toxicity and i wanna talk ab it cuz it ties back to a concept in do you see your god in me but theres also other stuff i wanna talk ab in it.

heres the link for it

so if u listened to it its p obviously a love song and yeah its ab a specific person. we werent together or none but it was more than platonic to say the least. im ngl2u shit didnt work out which i always knew was a possibility which is why im not too fucked up ab it now (it did take a bit to come to terms w it tho ngl2u) but despite that im still glad i made this song bc it helped me solidify some things and a bunch of other stuff im gonna get into.

so before we rlly get into it bc this songs backstory involves another person im not gonna get into very specific details out of respect for them plus it aint yalls business to know everything. but ima jus say no crazy shit happened btw us causing some crazy falling out theres no beef or drama to be had ima leave it at that.

now that thats out of the way lemme get into explaining this song.

so a major theme in this song is running away and the idea of "it" being worth it. what this all stems from is when me and this person first met. we became friends and i noticed that it was insanely possible for me to develop feelings for them. and in all honestly that scared the shit out of me cuz i got trouble with trusting people and attachment. so as they tried to get closer i would ignore them sometimes and keep my space to prevent that. and listen ill be the first to tell u that im a fucking asshole for that and even knowing how everything ended up i still regret it bc they didnt do anything to deserve that. but bc of my own cowardice and refusal to be vulnerable i did it.

this all happened around last summer and after a certain point in time we just werent as close as we used to be. some time passed and in that time i stopped hanging around a lot of my friends thats where the "ran away from all my friends" line came from. the whole me not liking them in the first place bit is an exaggeration but i started to realize that their actions werent very fitting of my morals. or at least thats how im choosing to put it bc honestly its not serious enough for me to get into specifics. soon after that i started to realize how much of an idiot i was being and decided that i shouldnt be scared to commit to something just because it might not work out. which is something that yu yu hakusho (ik im a fucking nerd LMAO) reminded me of. so i started hanging out w them more. as time went on we got closer n shit theres a lot more to it but like i said that shit aint yalls business but like i thought i would i started to develop feelings for this person the more i got to know them. and it wasnt too much longer after that when i wrote this song.

so like just going thru the lyrics i feel like everythings pretty self explanatory but a few lines sort of stand out as needing a bit more context to be fully understood

thought i'd amount to nothin

cant lie thought i was bluffin i thought i'd never love again

i come back to u n ask myself if it was worth it god i hope ts is worth it always struggled w my purpose i jus scratched the fuckin surface yall dont know whats underneath talkin like this hurts my teeth n i thought i was gettin better but im yellowed from the grief youre too fuckin sweet

and then theres obviously the reprise of do you see your god in me which im saving for last

so honestly the amount to nothing, purpose, and surface lines all can be grouped cuz they deal w the same sort of topic. so i used to talk to this person ab my dreams and like the actual artistry behind not just my music but my thoughts and it was something we really bonded over and we both shared thoughts with eachother about interesting concepts and it was something we rlly admired ab eachother but like when it came to my music it always seemed like they rlly believed in me n shit n like i do struggle w my purpose a lot but when i was w them shit jus seemed so easy n so clear. and this is bc they seemed to rlly understand me n what i was saying (which if yk me personally or have read some of the stuff on here yk means a lot to me bc its some i struggle w w other ppl) they rlly made it easier for me to believe in myself and my ideas and motivations. and then when it comes to the surface shit its honestly just the truth i rlly have only just scratched the surface of what i wanna talk ab w my music w the songs i have out. this page actually lets me dive deeper and it defintely has the closest look into my mind thats publicly available but overall people dont know whats rlly underneath besides them. well ig now not even them cuz its been a minute since weve talked but anyways that rlly just means i need to get to work on making music w substance again so i can spread the ideas i want to express before its too late.

so what i was talking about with the bluffing part is bc when i first started talkin to them again i didnt know if i was rlly gonna stick to it cuz i didnt know if i had the capacity to love someone like that again. and then when i said i asked myself if it was worth it ts lowkey has a double meaning of like was it worth it to treat them the way i did back then (a rhetorical question obviously it wasnt) and then also asking myself if it was worth it to come back even though im risking myself by being in this vulnerable position. (spoiler but i think it was) which i reinforce by said "god i hope ts is worth it" and honestly i have a complex relationship with god that deserves its own post bc i have what i feel are interesting thoughts on religion that i could talk very extensively about.

and then the teeth part vaguely highlights the bitter sweetness of the whole situation and this is because of numerous complications that once again i wont be going into bc ts is nunya but at the same time when we werent concerning ourselves with those things shit was honestly so good. and the whole yellowed from the grief thing is just because i still felt stained from the time i lost something similar and i was still dealing with the effects of it. which also brings up me thinking i was getting better and the reason i named this song overcoming toxicity. i thought that by making this commitment i was finally done shedding all the toxic habits that i had that summer but now i realize that youre never really "better" youre just always trying your best and sometimes you relapse back into negative patterns of thought. now i didnt run from them again but there were other problems i had at the time that were arising that i was struggling to deal with mainly my paranoia and trust issues which at the time were unrelated to them. and like they were the one who told me that stuff ab regressing and honestly i wish i listened more and took it more to heart bc i was rlly spiraling over some shit that was triggering my anxiety and maybe i couldve come out of it sooner if i just listened more but i was too in my head.

now all thats left is the reprise and lowkey ima have to do this shit genius annotated style so lets get it

"i said ill fix it n wont run away"

so by now it should be obvious what i meant by this only that i wouldve been saying that to myself as an affirmation as opposed to a promise made to them

"ur born from adam too human for me"

so tbh we did have a lot in common just like as people but idk theyre just way more social than me and it felt like they related to other people more than i did. its something that i always struggled with. we both had trouble feeling understood by and understanding others but to me they seemed to relate to others more (which to me is different from understanding) idk maybe i was wrong for saying this and it was just my perception of them but thats just how i felt. this is something i wanna talk ab later in another post but i do often feel like everyone relates to me but i dont truly relate to anyone else. idk this line is a bit looser and has speculative meaning even from me the person who wrote it.

"existentialism and struggle for peace"

now this line honestly has so much depth in it bc existentialism and the "struggle for peace" are such layered concepts and honestly id just read about existentialism to get a grasp of what it is rather than have my tired ass explain it. but the struggle for peace is sort of what trophaeum is all about. and trophaeum has a lot to do with my life if thats not obvious enough.

"do you wanna be the god in me"

now THISSS is the heavy hitter when it comes to meaning. cuz HOLYYY SHIT. so first off youre gonna have to read the do you wanna see your god in me post to fully understand what im ab to talk ab so do that and come back heres the link

now just like "do you see your god in me" i had no idea what this meant when i said it and honestly even rn im trying to figure out what it means but it honestly just felt right in the moment when i said it so i stuck w it. but what i do know is that this question is not using the god in someone as described in the other post literally. if the god in someone is the person who exists in their mind regardless of all the external masks and lies that are told by themselves and others and to see that god in someone else is to truly understand and to hold nothing back from eachother then wtf does it me to be the god in another person??? theres no way to give it a literal interpretation to it without sounding way crazier than i usually sound so heres how ive come to understand it

its inviting someone to be one with you (and by extension you one with them) and live your lives without having the question of whether you understand eachother or not because u simply just do. its complete transparency between eachother. honestly its a lot closer to "do you wanna be with the god in me" but not only does that not fit the flow of the hook but i also wasnt rlly thinking ab it then. tbh thats sort of how much i came to understand it it might take me more time to rlly understand what i meant more. and now that everythings on the table you probably have a very valid question

jin why the fuck would you ask such a heavy question to someone you werent even fucking dating

and im ngl to u ur right ts is kinda crazy especially writing a whole song ab someone i wasnt dating but all i can rlly say is u had to b there to understand. like bc of my neurodivergency i have trouble processing and explaining my feelings and music is one of the ways im able to illustrate it in a way that feels most genuine. and honestly at the time i hadnt even told them how i rlly felt yet cuz it jus didnt feel right but it was like one of those things where u can sort of tell the feelings are mutual yall jus aint say it yet. so this song was a lot of things. it was a confession, a show of affection, me reflecting on some past experiences, and it gave me the opportunity to rlly think some things out while also letting them out and it taught me a lot and it rlly made those lessons stick. so its all of those things combined that make me glad i made it and why im never gonna take it down regardless of things not turning out how i wanted it to.

i think thats all i have to say for now like usual ty if u actually read all this shit. this is a rlly personal subject for me obviously and im still sort of unsure of whether i should share this much but at the same time its a part of my music just as my music is a part of me so if im going to share my music im gonna share myself yk? idk if that makes sense i hope it does. ik im sort of makin myself vulnerable by posting this but its something ive wanted to talk ab for a minute so im doin it anyways.

#music #philosophy #trophaeum #ilyjin #SoundCloud

[bangtanloverboys]

i’d be home with you // knj

summary - death is inevitable, it’s something you cannot escape. it only hurts more when it you die too young.

pairing - ghost!namjoon x female! reader

genre - angst, hurt/comfort; ghost au

word count - 7.7k

warnings - peer pressure, drugs, alcohol consumption, anxiety attack, major character deaths (duh), police, accidental deaths, crying, vomiting, drinking as a coping mechanism, communicating with the dead, psychics, moving on, acceptance of death 

author’s note - this is for the final tile in my bingo ‘ghost au’. this really hurt me writing it and im sad, but i hope you guys like it

Namjoon had a lot of regrets, despite living a fairly cautious lifestyle. But since he died all he had left was regretting stuff he didn’t get to do sooner. Dying at 23 via accidental overdose? Hell of a way to die when he was someone who struggled to even tell a waiter that they gave him the wrong order, but that’s how he met his end. 

There were so many things he didn’t get to experience: getting his Masters, graduating college, finding the love of his life, having children with said love of his life, growing old, retiring, spending time with grandkids if he had any. But all of that was cut short by just one single party and one single decision.

His brother, Seokjin, dragged him along to one of his dumb frat parties. All Namjoon wanted to do that evening was just study for his anthropology final that was coming up the following weekend but in his brother’s terms he needed to quote-unquote “Take a chill pill”. He dragged him over to some random townhouse a couple miles away from the university, handed him a cup of alcohol and abandoned him. 

Namjoon didn’t drink, just didn’t think it was all that appealing to him. He sat silently in the corner of the room, keeping himself flush to the wall. He pretended to sip the plastic cup that was in his hand, trying not to draw any attention to himself whatsoever. It wasn’t until he was approached by a young brown haired man that his fate was sealed. 

“‘Sup man, you look like you need a bit of fun.” The man said, a small smirk on his lips as he raised a small baggie of white pills. 

“I- uh, I’m good. Thanks.” Namjoon quickly panicked, turning him down and quickly started looking around for his brother. This wasn’t his scene. He just wanted to go home now.

“Nah, come on man! You look like you need a bit of destressing, just take a couple. On the house.” He watched in abject horror as the guy opened the maggie and poured some into his hand. He took Namjoon’s free hand and put the pills in his palm. “Go on! Feels great.” He winked at him as he leaned against a wall, waiting for him to take the drugs. 

Despite only the stranger’s gaze on him, he felt like everyone at the party was staring at him. Waiting for him to take the pills. His heart was pounding, he should give them back and just walk home. With or without Seokjin. Instead he found himself slowly lifting the pills to his mouth, throwing them in and taking a swig of the cup in his hand to wash it down. The alcohol was bitter on his tongue and they clumped together as they went down his esophagus. 

“Yeaah man!” With a heart shaped smile, the man slapped him on the shoulder, “Enjoy it man. See me if you need anymore later.” And with that, he disappeared into the crowd.

Namjoon just stood there, head pounding as the lights bleared his vision and he swear he could feel the floors vibrate beneath his feet with the base of the stereo. Despite him not even moving, he felt like he was spinning and hanging upside down. Was it getting hot in here? Why did his limbs feel cold? He pushed himself from the wall, pushing his way through the sea of people between him and the way out. 

“Heyyy!! Joonie! Get over here!” The voice of his brother called out to him, he turned to see the man himself walk over to him and pull him out of the crowd. “I see you were gettin’ jiggy, eh? Finally letting loose?”

“Jin, I-I don’t feel so good. I need-”

“Oh quit it Namjoon!” Seokjin scoffed at him. “Just take another drink and chillax!” He took the cup in his hand and brought it to Namjoon’s lips, forcing him to gulp down more of the burning liquid. 

With that, his brother walked away. He felt himself get sucked back into the crowd of dancers, pushing and pulling him in all directions. His heartbeat was in his head, the base of the music was in his stomach. His chest was tight and he felt like he couldn’t breathe. All he knew at this point was the people he was surrounded by. Dancing, screaming, singing. It was loud and hot and nauseating. Yet despite the heat of the bodies around him, he felt cold. All he knew was what was in that crowd of people: sweat, heat, and constant movement.

After that the world just seemed to turn black.

He woke up the next early morning to sirens; red and blue lights flashing outside the windows. That should’ve been his first clue. His second clue should’ve been the lack of a hangover he should be having. Namjoon walked down the hallway he was in and into the living room where a couple he didn’t know were talking to police, alongside a few other party goers were all sitting on the couch. 

“H-hey what’s going on?” He asked as he approached them, but he was ignored. “Um, hello?” He waved his hand, trying to catch their attention. He felt his chest tighten, what was going on? Why were they ignoring him? When he heard an officer call out for a Mr. Kim, he almost cried from relief, “That’s me!”

But the officer walked right past him and out onto the porch, where a young man sat with a blanket laid over his shoulders. “Mr. Kim, I’m sorry to bug you at this time but we need a statement.” The man said to him. The young man nodded and stood up to face the officer. To Namjoon’s horror it was Seokjin, his eyes red and puffy. He’d never seen his brother look so distraught. “Are you alright for me to ask you a few questions?”

“Yeah,” his voice croaked out. 

“Did Namjoon, or anyone else in your family, have a history of drug abuse?” The question threw him for a loop.

“No!” He yelled at the officer. “I have never-”

“No, he-” Jin cut him off with a sniffle. “He’s never used drugs before, I dragged him out to this party. And-and it’s my fault he’s dead.” 

Namjoon’s entire world seemed to collapse in on itself. “What?! I’m not dead! I’m right here! Seokjin! Seokjin, look at me!” He cried out as he tried to push past the threshold of the door but some invisible force kept him in. “Seokjinnie, please! Hyung!” He screamed as he watched the officer place a hand on his shoulder as his older brother sobbed. 

He looked ahead of them and saw a white van labeled ‘CORNOR’ just shut its doors, only giving him a split second to see the tell-tale black body bag inside before the other door shut.

At that moment, another officer walked out the front door. Walking right through him. He watched as the man visibly shuddered before talking to the officer about giving Seokjin more time before asking questions. The air left his lungs, not that he had any in there to begin with. He clutched his chest and ran. He ran through the walls of the town house towards the back door, only for the same thing to happen at the front door happen again. An invisible barrier holding him in. 

He needed to be in an enclosed space. Glancing around, he saw an open closet tucked beneath the small staircase to the master bedroom. Namjoon burst into another run and slammed the door of the closet shut and let out an ungodly scream; crying out for his mother, brother, someone, anyone to hear him and tell him it was going to be okay. The only person came was an officer to investigate the slam but no one else came. No one saw him. 

He died August 28th, 1994. He was 23 years old. Cause of death was drug induced heart attack. The pills the stranger gave him were part of a bad batch or laced with something else, at least that’s what the owner’s of the house mentioned when he listened in on their conversations. At first he felt bad about it, but he couldn’t leave the townhouse so what else could he do? Watch paint dry?

After a while the frat guys who lived in the house moved out, not feeling comfortable with knowing that a guy died in their hallway on their watch. Namjoon didn’t hold any ill will towards them. It wasn’t their fault. Hell, he was such a forgiving person, he wasn’t even that mad at the guy who gave him the drugs. So he didn’t know exactly why he was stuck here, in a small townhouse. But there he was. And he tried his best to deal with it. 

While it certainly did suck the first few months of just trying to deal with people walking through him and not being able to be heard; being dead wasn’t so bad when Namjoon thought about it. It did get a bit lonely sometimes, not being able to talk to anyone outside of his own half conversations with the tenants that moved into the townhouse.

Sometimes the tenants of the house figured out that the place was haunted; sometimes they’d bring in psychics, who were definitely fake as no matter how much he tried to tell them he was a nice ghost they always spouted some bullshit of a vengeful spirit. Sometimes they’d bring in their own ghost equipment and start talking, but soon as he got a word out they freaked and left. The place was constantly on and off the market until you. 

You were a plucky university student who finally found a place that had low enough rent and was close enough to your school that you didn’t need a roommate. Despite Jungkook’s and Taehyung’s begging, you wanted a place to yourself and finding a 2 bedroom townhouse with rent that cheap? It was a steal! With the help of your two friends plus your older brother Yoongi, you were able to get all your stuff moved in within the day!

You didn’t understand why the place never had steady tenants; sure there was a history of noises and cold spots, but it was an old house built in the 70s. Of course it’s gonna have some old stuff that needs fixing. 

Namjoon watched in silence as the four of you went in and out of the house. A few times you did walk near him and visibly shiver, your friends even mentioned the cold spots to you, but you waved it off as if it was nothing. “Just the heater, I’ll talk to the landlord. See if he can do anything about it.” Now he wasn’t an engineer or anything, but he’s seen the heater and there’s nothing wrong with it, it was definitely him you were feeling. But he just had hopes that whoever the landlord hired would say the same to you. 

He was quickly able to get a quick gage on your friends; the brown haired one being Jungkook, he could easily tell he was the youngest of the group by how the rest of you babied him. The blue haired one was Taehyung, but there was something about him that was familiar almost. He reminded him of his brother, how handsome he was. Lastly the dark haired man was Yoongi, at first he wasn’t sure about your relationship to him, seeing how he was the oldest out of all of you, but he quickly came to realize you were siblings by the way you teased each other. He found a lot of joy watching the four of you bicker and talk as you all set up certain aspects of your new place.

“Are you sure you don’t want a roommate?” Jungkook whined as he brought in the last of the boxes. “I swear, I’ll do all the laundry and chores just pleaaasee?”

“Sorry, Jungkookie.” You laughed at your friend. “But the lease is signed and I got everything I want planned out already. You can go room with Taehyung!”

“But he gets paint all over my shit though!” He groaned as he set the last box down on the counter. 

“Hey, if she says she’s okay for her own place I believe her.” Yoongi said as he left your room. “Your bed is all set up by the way.” He pressed a kiss to the crown of your head. 

“Thank you, Yoongle.” You smile at your older brother, happy he was able to get your bed together before it was too late in the day. “Now I just gotta find my sheets and I’ll be able to sleep in bed.” You chuckled.

“Which are right here,” You turn to see Taehyung holding a bag full of your blankets and pillows. “Want me to bring them over to your room?” He tossed his head in the direction of where you claimed your bedroom would be.

“Please and thank you!” You gave him a wide smile as he made his way down towards your room to drop them. 

“You sure you don’t want me to spend the night tonight?” Yoongi asked, “First nights are scary, believe me.”

“I’ll be fine! Don’t worry!”

And you were. You thought you’d have a bit of difficulty adjusting to being alone, but for some reason you didn’t really feel alone? If that made any sense. You’d think after living with your brother the past few years you’d instantly notice being alone. Physically you knew you were but at the same time, deep down you knew you weren’t. Whatever this feeling was, you didn’t mind it. Hell, the weird feeling comforted you. Helped you prove to your brother that you didn’t need any extra help. 

Namjoon was kinda baffled at how willfully ignorant you were. It’s been a few weeks since you’ve moved in and he notices you do tend to lose stuff and don’t really question it when he suddenly places it where you can easily find it again. He likes watching you get ready and organizing your place. (Of course, when he sees that you’re getting dressed or getting ready for bed he’ll give you your privacy.) Sometimes he’ll kinda give some ghosty help and straighten up some of the crooked frames you hung up. Being the friendly ghost roommate he is. 

You called the landlord not too long ago and he said that a lot of the past tenants had complained about it not working or it always being cold in the house so he told you he was just going to replace it. You were excited! Brand new heater! And with the nights starting to get colder, you’re really going to need it. 

It was on a Tuesday when the landlord came to change the heater, which was strange. Namjoon watched as you let the landlord in to work as you left for your early morning class, now the few times he’s seen the landlord and stuff being fixed is few. Normally he’ll have a professional come over and work on it, that’s what happened a few years ago when he accidentally shoved a spoon down the kitchen drain and the tenant called his services. 

He watched with curiosity as the landlord dragged in the brand new heater, box in all, as well as his tool box and got to work. Something in the back of Namjoon’s mind didn’t feel right, so he kept an eye on the man as he installed the heater himself. Again, he wasn’t an electrician and knew nothing of installing heaters, but he knew that he was doing it wrong. He was pushing and slamming against it, trying to get it to fit on the pipes. Namjoon anxiously ran his fingers through his hair, debating on trying to fuck with him and push the heater off. But before he could even do anything, you came home and the landlord dusted off his hands and closed the door to the heater. 

You were so happy that it was finished, thanking the landlord profusely for getting you a new one and installing it. While it was gonna take a bit off of your deposit, and you were internally cringing at that, you knew it was a well needed thing to be done. Soon as he left, you turned on the heat, as it was a cool November day and your professor didn’t bother turning on the heat in her class at all. With the heat on, you grabbed some blankets and snuggled up to watch Netflix the rest of the day, not bothering to work on your essay that was due in a few days. 

As the day slowly came to a close, you realized you were getting a small headache. You didn’t really think much of it, just popped an aleve and drank some water. Usual things that helped cure your headaches, but it didn’t seem to let up. You glanced at the time, it was about 7:30. “Might as well hit the hay early.” You yawned, stretching out and made your way to your room. You did stumble around a bit, damn did you not notice how tired you were? Not bothering to change out of your day clothes, you just crawled right into bed and fell asleep. 

“Not good, this is very not good.” Namjoon was rightfully freaking out. The heater was not properly installed at all and as he couldn’t breathe, he knew that whatever was happening to you was not good. He scoured all over the house, looking for some sort of alarm he could set off, wake you up, get you out of the house. As it turns out, the fire alarm was busted. The landlord was too cheap to fix it and not bother telling you. He constantly went back and forth checking on your to make sure your chest was still rising and falling as he frantically tried to do anything to wake you up. 

Nothing worked though. He hadn’t felt this frustrated since he first died and everyone was walking through him. He wanted to scream, but nothing worked. He couldn’t do much but watch you. Wait for you to wake up and realize something was wrong. Wait for you to die. Which ever happened first and he hoped it was the former. But no matter how much he hoped and prayed to whatever god there was out there, it was fruitless. 

It was 1:36 am when you stopped breathing.

Namjoon lets out a choked out sob, he can’t believe it. He should’ve done something. He should’ve pushed the heater over while the landlord was still here. He should’ve done something to turn it off before you started suffering from the carbon monoxide that was pouring through your vents. He buried his head in his hands and he just cried. Cried for you, for your family. You had so much life ahead. 

“Mmhmm, what’s going on?”

He stilled, he looked up and saw you on the floor, holding your head. He quickly glanced between you and your body and quickly jumped into action. 

“Hey, it’s okay.” He got on his knees to help you to your feet, thankfully in your confusion you let him help you up and quickly escorted you away from your room. He wasn’t sure how you were going to react to the fact you had died, much less seeing your own dead body right in front of you. “Just follow me, you’re going to be okay.” He said as he brought you over to the couch and sat you down. 

“Hmm, who are you? Where am I?” You were still very dazed, he wasn’t sure if that was just a side effect of the poisoning or just general confusion of death. Did different deaths affect ghosts differently? Or was it random to each person? 

“My name is Namjoon, we’re in your house.” He answered as he knelt in front of you.

Your eyes slowly started focusing on him and when your vision cleared to see the stranger in your house, you rightfully screamed. “Who the fuck are you!? What are you doing in my house?!” You shouted scrambling to get away from him. “Get out before I call the police!!”

“Hey hey hey, wait!” He called out after you as you got to your feet and ran back to your room. “Don’t go in there! Wait! Y/N!”

Soon as you crossed the threshold of the room you screamed again. Because there you were, in bed. Not moving. Not breathing. You fell to your knees and screamed again; in horror, confusion, fear. You felt a hand on your shoulder and you just leaned into it, collapsing into the arms of a complete stranger. 

Namjoon held you as you sobbed into him, fists tight around the shirt he died in. He tried his best to be a soothing presence for you, rubbing circles into your back and not letting you go until several hours had passed. A normal human being probably would’ve passed out from exhaustion by now, but you weren’t human anymore. You were a ghost. 

By the time you had stopped crying the sun was starting to rise, you let Namjoon help you to your feet and back to the living room. You both sat down on the couch in silence, besides a couple of sniffles from you. 

“Are. . are you the Grim Reaper?” You asked, your voice groggy from crying. 

“Hm? Oh no, I uh, I’m a ghost. Like you actually.” He replied with a nervous chuckle. “I died here.”

“I figured,” you wiped your nose on the back of your hand. “Landlord said someone died back in ’94, I just thought it was some. . .some old guy. Old age. Didn’t think he’d be-you’d be close to my age.”

“How old are you?” He asked, trying to make light conversation and distract you. 

“Uh, I turned 21 last month.” You gave him a tight smile. Then the two of you fell into silence.

“I’m 23, by the way.” God, it’s been so long since he’s had an actual conversation with someone that he completely forgot how to talk to people. 

“But wouldn’t you be-”

“Nah I don’t really count the years afterward much. I don’t age and can’t leave the house, what’s the point in counting the years.” He scratched the back of his neck. 

“Can’t leave? What do you mean?” You looked at him, confused. 

“Uh. . . you saw Beetlejuice right?” You nodded. “Kinda like that? Only instead of being teleported to some other sand dimension, you just get. . .blocked.”

“I guess there’s also no ‘Handbook for the Recently Deceased’ either.” You let out a soft chuckle.

“Yeah, that would’ve been very helpful.” He gave you a small, dimpled smile. Then the silence fell over you again, the only noise was the shudder of the heater as it shut off, then there was complete silence.

“How long?” You keep your gaze focused on your lap, pulling on your fingers. 

“Hmm?”

“How long. . .are we going to be here?” Your body was still in the other room, how long until someone notices you were missing school? How long would it take your brother to know that you weren’t contacting him? You could go days without talking with him. . .

“Here? I don’t know. . . as for someone to notice. . .that all depends on the people around you. I died when there was just a frat party, so it was noticed immediately. . .”

You furrowed your brows at that, it sounded familiar. . .why did that sound familiar? You knew for a fact you didn’t research the one death in this house, but at the same time you feel like you’ve been told a story like that before. . . 

It was Jungkook who found you a day and a half later. 

“Y/N? Hello?” He was banging on the door, looking in between the windows. Namjoon held you close as you started to cry, you didn’t want Jungkook to see this. He shouldn’t have to see this. He must’ve found the hide-a-key because moments later he was in, you clung tighter onto Namjoon as your best friend of 10 years looked past you. 

“Y/N?” He called out as he walked in, you turned your head into Namjoon’s chest as your friend made his way towards your room. You squeezed your eyes shut as you heard him talk. “Hey you okay? Haven’t seen you at school. . . Y/N? Y/N? Hey wake up-” He must’ve realized because next thing you know he’s running out of the house, right through you and Namjoon, he stumbles outside and onto the small patch of grass that is your lawn. 

You pull yourself away from Namjoon’s grip, throwing yourself to the open door where you see Jungkook throwing up whatever's in his stomach and crying. You wanted to burst out of the house and just hold him, tell him you were okay, tell him you loved him one last time. But you couldn’t, all you could do was stand there and watch as he pulled out his phone and dialed the emergency number.

Soon enough there was a fire track, an ambulance, and several police cars lining the street. Namjoon tried to pull you away so you didn’t have to see what was going on, but you refused. You needed to see, you had to know what was going on. What was going to happen. BUt all those thoughts were thrown out the door when you saw your brother frantically pull up and run towards the house, pushing past officers trying to keep him away from the scene.

“Y/N?!” he screamed as the officers continued to hold him back. “Where’s my sister!? Is she okay?! Y/N!!” 

“Yoongi! Yoongi I’m right here!” You screamed, banging against the force that confined you to the townhouse. Not caring if first responders walked right through you, you didn’t care. You just wanted your brother. 

“Yoongi,” You saw Jungkook walk over to him, tears still falling from his face. You watched as the realization fell on his face. You were gone. 

“No. No no no no no NO!” He clawed hysterically at the officers, begging and screaming at them to let him go. They only did as he fell to his knees, Jungkook right next to him and pulled him in close. Both of them crying their hearts out for you as people watched from beyond the police tape. 

With the way your heater was improperly placed, it was an easy open and shut case. Carbon monoxide poisoning. Manslaughter. Your landlord was arrested and charged, plead guilty. He’ll get 3 years in prison. But that does little to resolve you or your family's grief. 

It takes a while before your family has access to your house again, all the carbon monoxide cleared out from the space. The new landlady gives Yoongi a month to clear out your stuff. You watch there as your mom, dad, Yoongi, Jungkook, and Taehyung all stop by and help try and organize boxes. No tears are spared through the entire time, from them and your family. 

Namjoon feels a bit awkward, staying off in the corner as you sit next to your mom as she folds all your clothes and puts them into boxes. He listens to your family as they tell stories about you, reminiscing on memories. He keeps a close eye on your though, despite him dying before, he never saw his family mourn. He’s unsure how you might deal with seeing them cry and divide up your stuff. 

You only start to lose it when Yoongi finds the pink stuffed elephant he’d given you many years ago, hiding away amongst your pillows. When he pulls out the stuffed animal that was hidden away, you watched as he ran his thumb over the furry creature. He brought it close to his chest and let out a choked out sob. Unsure how much more you were able to take, you let out a scream.

Namjoon quickly ran over to the bedroom where you were on the floor, screaming and crying as Yoongi stood there crying, completely unaware of what was going on before him. “Hey hey, it’s okay. It’s okay.” He tried to calm you, but you weren’t having it.

“No! It’s not okay, Namjoon! I’m dead! Maybe you’d have time to accept things the way they were but I can’t!” You shouted, pushing him away from you. You let out another twisted scream that turned into a sob, shaking Namjoon to his very core. The amount of power and energy you put into that wail shook the bookcase behind you, a few of the books falling from their shelves. The man just sat there across from you as you curled into a ball and just cried, and cried, and cried. Not sure what else to say. What do you say to a girl who was wrongfully killed in her sleep? There’s nothing. 

So caught up in your emotions and trying to keep you calm, neither of you see Yoongi notice stare at the bookcase and the fallen books. 

The next few times your family and friends come to pack things up, Namjoon stays with you in the closet. Saying something about giving them space and you need space as well. At first you protest against it, not wanting to be confined to an even smaller space. But after watching your father tear up as he packed away your photos, you agreed. You couldn’t take much longer. 

Several days had passed and all that was left in your townhouse was just the furniture. Your parents and brother arguing over who could keep what. There’s still a few boxes of your things scattered around the house, you wish you could steal a book or something to keep yourself occupied at least but you’d know they’d notice and find it right away. 

Lightning cracks against the sky as rain pours down. To pass the time, Namjoon was telling you stories about the other tenants that had lived here; the frat boys, the families, the stoners, etc. You were in the middle of telling him a story about how you and Jungkook met Taehyung, how he at 17 years old stuck a bug up his nose on a dare when the front door slammed open. Lightning flashed behind the figure, giving you a quick outline of your brother with a bottle in his hand.

“Oh on, no no no.” You stood up to walk over to Yoongi but he just walked right through you. Soaked from the rain, he probably didn’t even feel the cold spot that was you. 

“What is it? What’s wrong?” Namjoon asked as your brother dropped his bag on the floor, taking another swig of the whiskey in his hand. 

“Yoongi, he-he doesn’t like drinking. . .he only does when. . .” Your voice trailed off. Hurt is evident in your eyes as he places the alcohol on the ground and shuffles around in his backpack. Pulling out a black box and frantically tore it open, pulling out a small speaker and wires. 

“Come on, turn on you. . stupid fuckin’ thing.” He slurred as he pushed several buttons on the speaker until it blarred to life, a loud buzzing noise filling the living room. “Y/N? Are you there?”

Your eyes felt like they were going to bulge out of your head. Never in your life did you think your brother would go to such lengths as to buy a spirit box?! You looked to Namjoon, unsure of what to do. He’s told you a couple times people figured out the place was haunted and they’d try to communicate with him, but this was different. He was looking for you. He only gestured for you to speak. 

“Yoongi?” Soon as the words left your mouth, a robotic voice left the speakers and you swear he jumped ten feet in the air. 

“Is-is it really you?” He clung to the speaker, bringing it closer to his face. 

“It’s me,” you said. “I’m here.” The robotic voice followed after your’s. Yoongi let out a small cry, relieved you were here. You tried to say more but all that came out was garbled and mixed up. “Namjoon! What do I do?!”

“Calm down, small phrases.” Namjoon said, the spirit box picked up on his voice, repeating him as well. 

“Y/N, are we alone?” Your brother stilled, looking around the room. 

“No, someone else.” You said, sticking to the advice of small words and phrases. 

“Who?”

“Namjoon, friend.” The man introduced himself. “Died here too.”

“This is. . .this is great? I think? Y/N, I- I don’t know what to say. I’m sorry.” His eyes welded up with tears as he spoke.

“It’s. . okay.” You slowly made your way over to your brother, you placed your hand right over his cheek. “I love you.”

You weren’t sure if he felt your presence or not but needless to say he shut off the machine and burst into tears, you cried as he cried. He sat down on the couch, taking a few more swigs of his bottle of whiskey. His cries eventually evolved into snores as he passed out. You could feel Namjoon’s eyes on you as you attempted to brush the hair from his eyes. 

“I’m glad he didn’t do anything too stupid,” you sighed as you stood. “Or dangerous.”

“I’m sorry this happened, Y/N.” Namjoon said, as you made your way back over to him. Both of you just stand there, staring at your sleeping brother. 

“Not your fault,” you responded. “Just, god, I hope someone takes care of him. . .”

“You have a very loving and caring family, Y/N. He’ll be okay,” he wrapped an arm over your shoulder and pulled you into him. As time passed, you’ve gotten somewhat closer. You can’t help but be friendly with him as he’s the only other person you have, being stuck in a 2 bedroom, 1 and a half bath townhouse for the rest of eternity.

When Yoongi woke up the next morning he was grumpy, per usual of him drinking. He didn’t touch the spirit box though. Didn’t even look at it. He just shoved it in his backpack and left, leaving the whiskey behind. You’re glad he left it behind, but at the same time neither of you don’t know what to do with it. 

Namjoon tried to teach you to harness some of your energy to move stuff, him having several years under his belt. He’s able to move things around with little to no struggle, seeing how he was able to move your stuff around before. You however, struggle to move it even a centimeter. But he tells you not to worry, saying it did take him several years to master. 

About a week after your brother came by there’s a small crowd of people outside the door. Before you can even warn Namjoon, the door opens up and reveals him, Jungkook, Taehyung, a short blond man you don’t recognize, and-

“Seokin?!” Namjoon almost instantaneously recognized his brother, only he looked. . .older.

“You know him?” You almost had eyes as wide as he does, staring at him as he moves with the group of people into the kitchen. 

“Yeah, he’s-he’s my brother.” He feels tears start to well up, stinging as he blinks them back. 

“Your. . that would make you-”

“Taehyung, what am I doing here? You haven’t told me anything.” The eldest man complained as he settled into a chair.

“Dad, I told you just. . .just listen. Please.” Your blue haired friend sighed, giving his dad’s hand a quick squeeze. 

You can only stare at Namjoon who in turn only stares at Taehyung and his father. That’s why his story sounded familiar. You vaguely remember hearing your friend’s dad say something about having a brother that died young. An accident. At a house. Your house. 

The group of people settled around the table, only one left standing was the blond stranger who kept his eyes closed as he took a few deep breaths. His face was scrunched up every so slightly, like he was feeling for something.

“Oh no,” Namjoon groaned. “They brought a psychic.”

“I feel. . .” He started.

“Watch he’s going to say vengeful or something like that,” your ghostly friend crossed his arms with a huff.

“Oh I feel a lot of different things,” he giggled as he opened his eyes, pressing a hand to his cheek. “Mainly confusion but. . .there’s some relief and happiness mainly surrounding you sir.” The psychic pointed to Seokjin, who looked even more confused. 

“Are they here?” Yoongi asked him as he settled down in his seat.

“Yes, your sister and your brother are in the room.” he said with a smile. 

“I’m sorry, what?” Seokjin raised a brow in disbelief. “No, Taehyung. I’m not going to deal with some phony who is going to just make shit up about my brother” He started to get up from his seat. 

“Dad, wait!” Taehyung called after him.

“Pink! He likes the color pink!”

“Does the color pink mean anything to you?” The psychic said, stilling Seokjin. 

“Pink was his favorite color, but to anyone who asked him what his favorite color was it was orange.” Namjoon just spouted off the fact about his brother. The psychic didn’t repeat the statement verbatim, but got the point across nonetheless. 

“Mr. Kim, please just listen to what Jimin has to say. True me.” Your brother pleaded with him. Seokjin walked back to the table and took his seat once again. You could see his eyes were watering, like his brother he was blinking back tears. 

“Continue.” He gave a small nod to the blond man, now known as Jimin, who smiled back in return. 

“Now, we’re here to talk to Y/N and Namjoon, correct. That’s their names.” The table all nodded in response. “Okay, they’re here. They’re a bit confused so I’ll repeat my briefing. Hello, my name is Park Jimin. I’m a psychic medium. I can’t exactly see or hear you, but I can feel your energy and emotions. So please be gentle.” He gave a small laugh as he settled himself in your kitchen chair and closed his eyes. “Your family has questions, I’m here to help translate your answers for you. Family, if you please.”

“If Y/N is really here. . . what’s something only she and I would know?” Jungkook said, you had a feeling he was suspicious of this as well, just more quiet about it, possibly not wanting to insult Yoongi or Jimin. 

You felt your cheeks burn as a memory popped in your head, immediately knowing exactly what proof he needed. “He uh, stole my first kiss when I was 13 underneath the monkey bars.” You let out a small chuckle at the memory.

Almost instantaneously, Jimin burst out in a giggle. “Oh my gosh, I’m getting monkey bars?” He kept his eyes closed as he brought his hands to his cheeks. You were keeping your eyes focused on the psychic, but out of the corner of your eyes you saw Jungkook stiffen. “Oh my face is red. You stole her first kiss.” He opened his eyes, a huge smile on his face. 

“I’m sorry what?” Yoongi immediately turned to the younger boy, eyeing him suspiciously. 

“Shush, it’s her.” He dismissed your brother as he leaned forward on the table, soaking in every word that Jimin said. 

“Dad, do you want to say something?” Taehyung looked to his father who kept his arms crossed and his face stern. Glancing between him and Namjoon as he stood right next to him, you finally were able to see somewhat of a resemblance between them. The same messy dark hair, same stern eyebrows, you could only imagine what Mr. Kim looked like when he was Namjoon’s age. 

“. . . Who was it. . .” His voice cracked as he spoke. 

Namjoon paused, he hadn’t thought of the stranger in many years. . .did they never find him? All he recalls of him was a heart shaped smile and brown hair. He can’t recall much else about him, looking very much normal. Like the rest of the party. 

“Hmm,” He watched as Jimin’s face scrunched up a bit. “He doesn’t know, all he remembers is the smile and his hair color.” He brought his hand to his mouth, gesturing to it. “It was a very specific shape too, I see it in my mind perfectly. I wanna say. . . heart shaped?”

Soon as the words left his mouth, Seokjin broke out into a sob. Namjoon watched as his son, his nephew, rumbed comforting circles on his back. 

“Hoseok, fucking Jung Hoseok.” He choked out, hiding his face from the rest of the table. 

Namjoon reached out to his brother, placing a hand on his shoulder. Trying to let him know that it’s okay, he’s not mad. It’s okay. 

“Seokjin,” Jimin started. “Your brother doesn’t harbor any ill will towards him. He forgave him a long time ago.” He finished with a smile. 

“But it’s my fault he’s dead.” He managed to get out. “I brought him to the party, I gave him alcohol. I was the one complaining to Hoseok about him needing to chill out. I caused my brother’s death!”

Namjoon froze at this information. He looked to you, who seemed equally stunned. The whole table seemed to be stunned into silence. 

“I thought it was him for a while, but no one saw him give Namjoon the drugs. I had no evidence. Hoseok’s dad was chief of police so even if I did it would’ve been swept under the rug.” Seokjin finished as he wiped his tears away. The entire table stayed quiet, waiting. 

Namjoon closed his eyes and took a deep breath, despite the action doing nothing, it calmed him down. “It’s alright, Jinnie. I forgive you.” He focused all his energy onto his hand that was placed on his brother’s shoulder, giving it a squeeze. “You need to forgive yourself.” He must’ve felt it because he started staring at his shoulder.

“He forgives you, Mr. Kim.” Jimin repeated softly. “But he thinks you need to forgive yourself. You can’t change the past. He learned that a long time ago. It’s time to let go.”

Eyes not leaving his shoulder, he nodded. “Okay. Okay Joonie.” He let out in a soft voice. 

Jimin conducts the meeting for a little while longer, your respective families letting you know that you are always in their thoughts and how much they love you. You and Namjoon stayed near each other the whole time, giving each other the support you needed as you all reminisced on memories. 

As the meeting  started to come to a close, the blond psychic said something. “Now, this is not usually conventional for me but I feel like it’s necessary.” 

“What do you mean?” Yoongi asked, looking at the man with concern. 

“Both Namjoon and Y/N need to move on. It’s clear to me they have no unfinished business, so the reason they’re still here isn’t that.” He explained. “Sometimes when people die young they just get stuck behind, it’s not common but it happens.”

“So this will be our last goodbye?” Jungkook’s big doe eyes started to well with tears again.

“Yes, it will be.” He nodded. “Please say your final words.”

“Y/N,” Yoongi started, you watched as your brother’s lip trembled, trying to find the right words to say to you. “There’s so much I want to say but I can’t get it out. . I-I love you. You’ll always be my baby sister.”

Next up was Jungkook, who was keeping his eyes squeezed shut. “I wish. . .I wish I could’ve done more for you. I miss you and- and I’ll never forget you.”

“Namjoonie. . .” Seokjin began. “It seems like I just got you back and now I’m losing you again.” He let out a weak laugh. “I love you. You’re always in my thoughts.”

Finally was Taehyung, who just sat there with his lips pursed in thought. “Uncle Namjoon. . . I’m glad I at least got to meet you. . .kinda.” He smiled lightly. “Thank you for being there for Y/N. Please watch over her, she’s kind of a mess sometimes.” He laughed, causing the table to erupt in chuckles. 

“Hey, I’m not that much of a mess!” You countered.

“Yes, you are.” Namjoon asserted as Taehyung finished his thought.

“Y/N, I’m. . . I’m gonna miss you. I’ll always be your bug.” He concluded. The table turned their attention back towards Jimin, who was wiping away tears. 

“They’re not saying anything but it’s clear that they love you,” he said with a smile as he dabbed his under eyes with a handkerchief. “Now, Namjoon and Y/N. Please stand behind me and put your hands on my shoulders.” You followed his instructions, placing your hands on his shoulders, causing him to shiver. “Ooh cold. Now, join hands everyone.” He held out his hands for Yoongi and Taehyung to take. They did and the rest followed suit. 

They all sat there in silence, eyes closed. You and Namjoon looked to each other, neither of you knew what was going to happen next. He’s tried for years to move on physically saying he’s moving on or had no more unfinished business, meditating. Nothing worked. Maybe he was stuck and needed a real and proper psychic’s help?

Suddenly warmth covered you and Namjoon. It’s been years since he’d felt warmth like this. He let out a sigh as the feeling enveloped him. He looked over to you and you had a relaxed smile on your face, content with everything. The sadness he was so used to seeing on your face was now replaced with a look of peace. If he was to look in the mirror, he was sure he’d look the same. 

There was no light that neither of you could recall going into. You both just watched your world melt away into the next.

#btsghostiebingo #btsghostie #thehouseofbangtan #thetruthretold #namjoon x reader #kim namjoon x reader #bts x reader #namjoon fanfiction #bts fanfiction #kim namjoon angst #namjoon angst #rm x reader #bts angst #kim namjoon #kim seokjin #min yoongi #jung hoseok #park jimin #kim taehyung #jeon jungkook

[songfell-ut]

Chapter 7: more talking

But it’s important talking! Clues are not gotten! A proposition is proposed! And damn, does SpellCheck not like Sans’ dialogue. D:

Chapter link here, hi @lostmypotatoes

When they strolled up to the chapel entrance, the captain on duty was the very one who had been in charge of Sans' cell the day they met. He was discussing the fireworks with one of his subordinates, who looked over the captain's shoulder and got very, very quiet. The skeleton took a great deal of pleasure in waiting for him to turn around, then saying, "Well, hey there. Don't I know ya from somewhere?"

The captain was ready to have a conniption until he spotted Frisk: Sans was leaning far sideways, and she was standing almost on tiptoe, holding the crook of his elbow so that he was escorting her like a proper gentleman. "Your Eminence!" the captain gasped. He looked back and forth between them, hand on his sword hilt. "My lady, where have you been? Has this creature done something to you?"

"He saved me from being ill in front of half the kingdom," Frisk said coolly. "I am fine now, Captain, thanks to his timely intervention. Has the benediction been performed yet?"

"Uh...no, my lady, but—"

"Then I will do so." With her head held high, the High Priestess led the skeleton past the guards and straight into the chapel.

Unsurprisingly, their entrance caused quite a stir. The last verse of the last hymn was starting, and as the pair approached the altar, Frisk signaled for the choir to keep going. The congregation watched, stunned, as Frisk took Sans with her through the ring of guardsmen and stood to one side at the front of the chapel, waiting for the music to end.

She hadn't planned on this, but she wouldn't have done it any differently; it was impossible not to smirk a little. The boss monster must have felt the same way, because he bent down to say, under the cover of song, "Didn't think I'd get t'walk ya down the aisle today."

"You do know that a girl's father does that for her, not the groom?" she murmured back, and Sans looked so chagrined that she snrrked again.

The hymn came to a close, and Frisk moved up to read the benediction. She tried to put her facade back on, but she couldn't help smiling; when she formally ended the service, there was more applause than she'd ever heard.

Though the guards prevented anyone from coming up to the altar, she reclaimed Sans and, ignoring all attempts to stop her, went to stand in the back of the chapel to speak with people as they left. Sure enough, despite the presence of her massive escort, there was such a traffic jam around her that Frisk ended up having to move outside the entrance.

Of course, amidst the compliments and well-wishes came several questions about her absence from the middle of the ceremony; enough people knew about Sans' abilities to ask if they'd really seen a woman and/or men vanish from the congregation, and why the people sitting near them had been taken away quietly by armed guards.

Frisk made a quick guess as to what had happened, and that the woman and/or men's families were the ones talking loudly to the guards in the next room. She told the questioner that extraordinary measures had been necessary for everyone's safety, and certain persons had had to be taken into immediate custody—no one had been spirited away to never be seen again, and no one would be, which her listeners seemed willing to believe.

It was also a matter of great speculation why someone would trouble themselves to put on a fireworks display in full daylight, and a time when everyone was in church and wouldn't see them. Luckily, the consensus was that it had been a mistake, and Frisk could feign ignorance along with her parishioners.

More cute, but problematic, was the custom of children offering her little tokens like flowers and ribbons on their way out. There were no pockets in her wretched dress, so her hands filled up quickly, and she could only tuck so many golden flowers behind her ears. On impulse, Frisk started winding the ribbons around Sans' arms instead and tying the flowers on; seeing that Sans was not killing or eating her, the children soon began ignoring the priestess and going straight to the skeleton, decorating his legs and poking flower stems through his wristbones.

Throughout this ordeal, Sans had no idea what to do, so he opted to stand there, expressionless, and do nothing. This happened to be the least threatening and therefore correct option; Frisk checked frequently on the crowd's reactions, but after the first few minutes, no one was frightened at all. Parents were even bowing to Sans and mouthing "Thank you" up at him as they reclaimed their delighted offspring.

The priestess had been sure to speak loud enough for the nearby guardsmen and any curious bystanders to hear, and when it was time to step away from the crowd and confer with His Holiness privately, she didn't have to repeat herself much. That was when she learned that magically infused items had been brought into the chapel in lieu of daggers or crossbows, and how Sans – still bedecked in flowers as he gravely related these particulars – had used his teleportation to thwart their efforts; the three suspects' friends and families had already been escorted upstairs for further questioning.

This last fact turned out to be a slight problem. Frisk had thought the "fireworks" would be easy to trace to anyone who had left the chapel in a hurry a few minutes after her hymn, but it seemed several people had been escorted out for questioning at the same time. Many of them had been loud or troublesome enough for someone to have followed the group out and slipped away without notice.

"Pity. Overall, a job well done, sir," the Cardinal told Sans, and gave the guard captain a look that forced the poor man to say through gritted teeth, "Indeed, sir. Thank you for your service."

"Thank you, Your Holiness. We'll take our leave, then," Frisk said smoothly, giving Sans the slightest tap with her foot. "A Happy All Souls Day to each of you."

Sans mumbled something similar, and with a couple of bows, they were free to go. The priestess was starving, but the second they got back to the workroom, she shuffled at top speed to her dressing room, slammed the door, and peeled the gown off as fast as she could. Her sigh of freedom was so exaggerated and yet genuine that she heard Sans mutter, "Guess it was good fer you, too," which made her laugh till she had to sit down amidst her shoes and catch her breath.

It was strange; by unspoken agreement, neither mentioned their embrace in the hallway, but as she came out in her loosest, oldest dress and they sat down to breakfast, the silence was completely comfortable. They each ate a small pile of soul cakes, some eggs, and then more soul cakes, not stopping until they ran out of milk and Sans finally allowed her to take the basket away.

They sat around for a few minutes afterward, half asleep, with the boss monster lost in thought as he picked flowers off his arms; she knew it was serious when he began shifting around and tapping his heels on the floor. "Hey, Frisk?" He twisted a couple of flower stems together. "How do ya go about gettin' a list of what human's got what monster? It's a Church thing, right?"

Frisk had been sitting cross-legged on the floor to unwind the ribbons around his legs, and stood up slowly to place a handful on the table. She'd known this conversation would have to happen sooner or later, but why did it have to spoil such a nice, quiet moment? "Is there a specific reason you want to know?" she asked cautiously.

"Yeah. One of the people after you was gonna use an ice spell she got from a monster named Snowdrake. The magic felt pretty fresh, not like they drained 'im already and jus' used it now. I figured he must still be alive."

The priestess sat down beside him and picked up another golden flower. "I'm going to be honest with you, Sans, and in return, I ask that you not get too angry with me." He nodded without looking at her, and she continued, "I already asked the Cardinal for those exact records, back when we met him and the King. I am deeply sorry for my phrasing, but I said 'a specific class of goods' because I wanted to be circumspect in front of you. I didn't know what you would say if I asked for a list of all the monsters registered as slaves. It is indeed 'a Church thing,' I am disgusted to say. Again, I apologize for—"

"Nah, you were right, I'd'a gone nuts. Ya don't hafta be so stiff about it. I know ya don't actually think of us as stuff ta buy and sell."

The words were mature enough, but Frisk didn't like the look on his face. "I suppose it's time we had a real talk about this," she said. "I've been thinking it over for years, and I have an idea of what we can do to put an end to the monsters' slavery. Will you hear me out?" He wouldn't answer, and Frisk tugged at his sleeve. "Please, Sans."

The giant skeleton flicked at the pile of flowers, sending them flying across the tabletop and onto the floor. "Fine," he growled. "Talk."

"All right. First, I don't know if you know the exact legalities, so: it is technically against the law to go to the border with the Underground, find a monster, and bring said monster back here to be sold, but it's rarely enforced, and it is legal to sell, buy, or own them. It's definitely a crime to buy or own a monster without registering him or her and paying the proper taxes, and the Church enforces it very strictly. ...Sans, I'm not saying any of this to upset you. I have to be sure you know exactly what we're fighting, and that if you charge out and start liberating monsters, you're going to make everything a thousand times worse. May I explain why?"

His teeth were gnashing so hard that it sounded like metal on metal, not bone. "I am tryin' very hard ta be good right now, kid. Ya better get to the friggin' point soon."

"Very well. The point is that if you decide to free any or all of the monsters and you kill a human in the process, not only will you go from an emissary to a wanted criminal, you'll reinforce everyone's fears about monsters being dangerous, even the people who left church today thinking that skeletons may not be evil after all. That much fear could very well push the King to declare war."

No reaction. Frisk stopped to pour herself some water, but she was thinking so hard that she just stared at it while she said, "I wouldn't be able to stop them from sealing the Underground and forcing every single monster in it to choose between slavery and starvation. And if you think you could use your magic to free monsters without killing anyone, don't. They'd figure out it was you, and you'd be banished at the very least. Meanwhile, I'd be stripped of my title, forced to pay double the full value of each monster, and imprisoned."

That made him sit back a little, but Frisk was not done by a long shot. "Now, if I thought that money would make the problem go away, I would've done it a long time ago—but no. If I were to buy every monster in the kingdom, it wouldn't stop anyone from going out to get new ones. In fact, it would drive prices so high that humans would be racing to set up camp in the no-man's-land and raid the Underground itself for more slaves. They wouldn't care what the law says. They'd be making more than enough to just pay the fines, or be so numerous that the King couldn't arrest them all. If you tried to fight them off, they'd kill any monsters who attacked them, claim self-defense, and get away with it. No one would stop them because we've gotten so dependent on magic, and right now, humans still think monsters are—"

"Shit on a brick! Fine! I get it. You're right. Yer totally goddamn right." Sans' head sank between his elbows, cheek grating on the table. "So, we play nice 'n let everyone see how cuddly I am, an' a few hundred years from now, humans might like monsters enough ta feed us every single day?"

"I'm getting to that, Sans. By law, monsters must be provided adequate food, water, and shelter, and any accommodations their unique biology may require. They're also not supposed to be used to commit crimes. If someone used Snowdrake's magic to fashion illegal weapons, I can have him confiscated and placed in my custody, and I'll register his new location as a house I own on the outskirts of the city. How long would it take you to make one round trip from here to the house and the Underground, and back? Could you do it, say, overnight?"

"Hmm. Yeah, it'd just take a lot outta me." Frisk couldn't help noting that he now considered it a given he'd be coming right back, and allowed herself to be very happy for a moment before he went on, "With Snowdrake, G—the doctor already told 'em to find whoever took his magic for that spell. So that's already happenin', which just leaves...how many monsters are there here?"

"I don't know the exact total offhand. I promise to show you the records as soon as the Cardinal gives them to me, if you promise you won't use them to do anything rash, which I define as 'anything you know Frisk does not want you to do.' For the immediate future, the best plan of action would be to check the conditions each one is being kept in and see if we can legally take any more of them. We'd need to do it before word gets out and everyone suddenly starts behaving perfectly—that's what usually happens when I try to order surprise inspections."

"Great, but when can we get started on makin' this shit illegal t'begin with?"

"When we have enough political support. We need people to feel that it's wrong to keep monsters like animals, even if they're well-treated, and we also have to be prepared when they ask, 'But where will we get our magic?' Part of the answer will be the natural power sources you and the doctor are working on now, which he should be able to formally present to the King before you leave. But also..." She trailed off, her throat closing up with sudden nervousness.

Sans lifted a hand. "What? Spit it out."

Frisk's heart was pounding. She knew Sans wouldn't like this part, but if she couldn't convince him, the entire plan was sunk. How to begin?

Something occurred to her, and without thinking hard enough, she said, "I'm sorry for the comparison, but it reminds me of Luke and his birds." He stiffened, and she hastened to add, "Don't get me wrong—monsters are not pets, and I'm not suggesting you stay confined in any way, but it's a valid example of working within the constraints of supply and demand. If we can't eliminate the demand for magic, we need to supply it without exploiting monsters, and we have to make it as painless a transition as we can. In this case, not only do we work on wind and solar generation, we..." A deep breath, almost a gulp. "...have monsters give magic voluntarily. You could sell it to us, or perhaps trade it as part of a peace agreement, or for food, until we learn to make enough for ourselves. Partners, not slaves."

Sans didn't move. "...Partners?"

One word, nothing more. Frisk's heart sped up until she felt sick. The boss monster was sitting stock-still, but the air around him started to turn faintly red, smelling like heat lightning. Frisk made herself say, "You hate humans. I know that. I won't claim to know exactly what you're feeling, but I—"

"Ya couldn'a picked a worse monster fer this. Ya know that?" The skeleton turned his head, and Frisk flinched: his right socket was blank, and the left was solid crimson, the same color as his blaster the day he'd been prepared to kill her and all the guards in his prison cell. "Lemme tell ya somethin', kid. I'll admit that you've been treatin' me right, and I don't mind bein' cutesy 'n nice once in a while if it'll make other monsters safer." His fist slammed into the solid oak tabletop, leaving a dent. "But I'll be fucked in the eye 'fore I go back ta Asgore and say, 'Hey, maybe they'll quit squeezin' us out like jelly rolls and leavin' us to scream ourselves inta dust, we just hafta promise we'll be good helpers!' Are ya kidding me, Frisk? This whole time, you've been plannin' to end slavery by gettin' us ta whore ourselves out instead?!"

The priestess' ears were ringing. She hadn't seen or felt him this angry since the day they met. Should she back off, try to placate him, and wait to bring it up again later—maybe shelve it entirely till she could talk with another monster?

No. She knew Sans. If she left things like this – especially if she apologized for proposing it – she'd be all but telling him that he was right to be angry with her, and he wouldn't have to face the possibility that he was unfairly pointing a lifetime of hatred in her direction. Not only would that gall her on a personal level, it'd unbalance him even further, maybe to the point where she couldn't reach him anymore. Nice, quiet moments were all well and good, but she had to be able to talk to him about difficult things, not just chess and stupid jokes!

Frisk pressed her lips together, burning with determination. She turned to face the boss monster, though they were so close that she had to tip her head back. "I don't know what else you expected, Sans," she said firmly. "As things are now, monsters have no future. Short of killing literally every human alive, the only way for you to live in peace is to live with us and make the best of it. You don't have to like it, but you do have to acknowledge reality. May I ask if you have any better ideas?"

His eye was starting to leak a fine red mist. "Mmm, I dunno about every human. We could start small, maybe a few hundred, work our way up."

That reminded her—partly out of curiosity and partly to distract him, she asked, "After you were imprisoned, did you stay put for all that time because you were waiting to kill whoever came to get you out?"

"Ding ding ding! Smart lady. Mostly." Sans suddenly reached down for her face. Frisk held steady as those huge, slightly pointed phalanges brushed her temple. "I did wanna get more information before I busted out, maybe identify who all had magic so I could kill 'em later." Something rustled her hair as Sans removed one of the golden flowers still tucked behind her ear, lifting it all the way back up to his eye level. "But I mostly wanted ta see exactly what kinda person thought they could box me up like yer little dumbshit boyfriend 'n his stupid-ass birds." A giant, horrible grin. The flower evaporated in a cloud of fine ash. "Then I was gonna snap their arms 'n legs an' wring their head off, nice 'n slow."

Frisk dug her nails into the ball of her thumb, controlling her own anger and, yes, fear. She had to stay calm and think very, very carefully about what she did next. She'd been trained in mediation—what was it Sister Maribelle had said? "Pay attention to little asides or silly demands that they refuse to concede. There you'll often find the real heart of the matter."

All right. She had anticipated some resistance to her proposition, but nothing this violent. Yes, he hated humans, and she hadn't touched that nerve so much as sucker-punched it. But why had he mentioned Luke like that, and why did he sound so bitter? Was he that offended at her comparing monsters to captive birds? Or...

...Good Lord. He couldn't be...jealous, could he? There was no way—but even if he was, why bring it up now? This argument had nothing to do with—

Unbidden, her mind flashed back to that moment in the hallway. She'd needed comfort so badly, and with someone she trusted right at hand, she'd been selfish enough to take it. Her body tingled at the memory of his hand resting on her back as she clung to him, and...

She still didn't understand what had happened to her heart. It didn't seem the kind of poetic, butterflies-in-the-stomach attraction she'd read about; this was literal attraction, keeping her against him for as long as possible. It'd felt absolutely wonderful, but a little frightening, like her – what did the monsters call it? – like her SOUL was literally stuck to him, and would tear loose from her chest if she tried to pull away. Was that normal? Maybe it was why so many romantic songs and poems mentioned a moment lasting forever...

Frisk shook herself. He'd been very patient with her hugging him, and pushed her away as lightly as usual, but she couldn't ask that of him again. There was no point speculating exactly how else he'd felt about it, or imagining anything more.

But there was a point in speculating about how Sans felt now. He'd had to get up early to sit around with someone who was clearly interested in her and who she hadn't done much to discourage—probably a bit annoying, but not problematic until she went and threw herself into his arms just a few hours later. It had probably come off as mixed signals at best, and leading him on or using him at worst. She could only suppose that it was still bothering him on some level, and then she'd brought it up amidst the stress of talking about monsters and slavery...

Well, Frisk wasn't going to give him a free pass to say or do whatever he wanted, but she wasn't nearly as angry anymore. "I won't apologize for having a workable plan towards peace, but I am sorry for likening you to birds," she said, keeping her voice quiet enough that he had to focus to hear it. "Lord Owen was a poor example, too. I don't even know if I'd like to see him again," she added.

Sans' aura receded ever so slightly, his brow creasing. "Why's that?" he rumbled, adding too late, "Not like I care. We're gettin' off topic."

Frisk was a little surprised herself. She let Sans see her hesitation as she thought out loud. "It's...tiny things. He's so perfect on paper, but..."

"But what?" snapped the skeleton.

"He didn't say 'Please' to the maid. No one in his family ever does," Frisk remarked. "They're not at all cruel to their servants, or even rude, necessarily. They just—and another thing. When he was moving my hand for Ruby to perch on, he was too rough. He scratched me a little when he took my bracelet off, which reminds me that I left it there. Wonderful." Despite herself, Frisk closed her eyes. Through the adrenaline of fighting with a volatile boss monster, she could feel exhaustion hovering on the periphery, clouding her judgment and keeping the words flowing: "You're almost twice his size, and you never manhandle me like that. He'd be more considerate if I asked him to, but I don't like his presumption. Did you notice how he smacks his lips when he eats? And unless he's changed completely in less than a year, his sense of humor is boring." She cracked one eye open, suppressing a yawn. "I know I'm being spoiled and ridiculous, but I can't help it. He's rich, he's very kind, and his whole family would welcome me with open arms. I've dreamed of having a family my whole life! But, still, he just seems...adequate. Am I wrong for wanting more than that?"

Sans tilted his head at her. His eye was still pulsing red, but he was clearly thinking something over; she didn't know whether to be hopeful or put up a preemptive barrier.

A long moment later, with an even more visible effort, he pulled the scarlet haze almost all the way back into his bones. "I got an idea, too," he said roughly. "You an' me ain't gonna talk about this 'partner' crap any more, 'cause there's no point. But you tell yer King what ya just told me, if ya haven't already. Get the plans squared away for convertin' all yer shit to run on good ol' Mother Nature, not from breakin' anyone's ribs an' tearin' their SOUL out." His eye dimmed. "I'll take ya back to the Underground with me an' get you in ta see Asgore. Then you can ask him what he thinks about it."

Frisk felt the blood drain from her face. "You...you want me to go to the Underground and speak with your King?"

He nodded shortly. "I won't lie t'ya, Frisk. I fuckin' hate yer plan. I'd never go along with it. But maybe he would, and he's the one in charge." The skeleton snorted. "And nah, I don't have any better ideas. Just...come back with me."

The thought of going to the Underground, and the way he said it—something in her chest unclenched, and just as swiftly squeezed itself back into a knot. Suddenly, all the exhaustion, tension, and frustration she'd been holding back threatened to boil over, and to her embarrassment, her eyes filled with tears.

The red vanished, all of it. "Frisk?" Sans leaned over her, orange pinpricks reappearing in his sockets. "C'mon, kid, don't do this again!"

"What if—" She had to stop and swallow a few times. "What if I'm tired, and you've just made my life a lot more complicated, and I need to 'do this again'?"

"Oh, I'm the complicated one?" Sans looked ready to launch into another tirade, but Frisk sniffled and rubbed her eyes, and the skeleton covered with his face with his hand instead. "O-kay. Ya know what I think? I think we both need a traditional All Souls nap. Sleepin's a good way ta honor dead people, right? It's all they do."

That startled a laugh out of her. "I'd argue if I could." She scrubbed her eyes again. "I need to think about this. It'd be quite an undertaking, but...who knows? I've already made you an emissary against your will. Maybe I can return the favor."

Sans perked up so much that she wondered if he was being sarcastic. But no, he just answered, "Sure, take all the time ya need. I'm still stayin' another, what, twenty days? That's forever." More somberly, he picked a golden flower from behind her other ear. "You'd be way better at it 'n me. King Asgore's not the same nice guy he used ta be, but I think he'd listen to ya. Either way, me 'n Tori would keep you safe," he said quietly.

Dirt. Frisk scratched her cheek where the petals had brushed it, wondering for the hundredth time how someone so big could move with that kind of gentle dexterity. She couldn't handle this right now. "I don't know," she tried to say, but her voice cracked.

The skeleton looked a little panicked. He glanced at the tabletop, guiltily moving a plate to cover the dent he'd made. "Nap time," he muttered.

Frisk nodded. Without another word, she rose and went into the office, and shut the door. She slid down against it to the floor, and tried not to burst into tears, or look at the couch, or think of the rosewood box hidden beneath the floorboards. But how could she not when he had flat-out asked her to go back with him?

That damned box. "For you to reclaim, or not," the Mother Superior had said the day Frisk left the convent.

Why had the old woman given it back to her? Why hadn't they thrown it away?

Why hadn't Frisk thrown it away?

What would happen if she just had Sans smash it? Would the orb evaporate, or would everything hit her at once? The thought was terrifying. She knew all too well that the women who ran the convent were neither sentimental nor faint-hearted; she couldn't imagine the state she must've been in for them to take that much. It had to have been literal life or death.

Frisk shook her head, giving one last sniff. Sans was right. She did need a nap. But when she thought of staying in here alone on the couch again, more tears started leaking out until she wanted to howl like a small child—again, the way she probably had when they first brought her to St. Brigid's.

This wouldn't do. The priestess wiped her eyes on her threadbare skirt and got to her feet. She didn't care if she woke Sans, he could always—

When she opened the door, she was met with a gigantic ribcage and a huge hand curled up in her face, ready to knock. Frisk leapt back with a little squeak. "Don't do that!" she cried.

Sans had also jumped back. "What the crap?! Ya scared me half t'death!"

They glared at each other for a moment. Then Frisk's mouth twitched, and Sans tried to scowl, but snickered, and soon they were both laughing helplessly, leaning against the doorframe and the worktable, respectively. "Okay, okay," the boss monster managed. "If ya really hafta have another slumber party, c'mon."

Frisk giggled again, wiping her now-raw eyes. "Is that what you were doing? Inviting me back over?"

"Well..." The skeleton headed towards the bedroom, scratching the back of his skull. "I can't do my job when yer in another room, am I?" He opened the door wider for her. "'Sides, Pap's not here, an' I can't fall asleep unless I've been buggin' someone."

The priestess gave him a watery smile. "I missed you, too."

Sans turned an interesting shade, and muttered a general denial of missing anybody, which she ignored. "Hey, hold on a sec," he said as Frisk retrieved a large quilt and climbed into bed. "Where's yer fort?"

She stole the single pillow and plunked it down on the far side of the mattress. "It's a pretend fort." The young woman lay down facing him and shook out the quilt, draping it over herself and scrunching the corners into a sort of burrow. "There. I can't see you, and you can't see me," she said through the top, and yawned. "Come on. Don't make me put you to sleep."

Sans' mouth opened and closed a few times. "What, ya mean—"

"I mean that I'm tired, and so are you, so get into bed and be quiet. That's how naps work."

"But—"

"Sans."

The skeleton didn't bother arguing further. He stood for a moment, and turned to leave. He stopped. He shook his head, and reached for the doorknob.

A movement from deep within the quilt was his only warning before the now-familiar vibrations swept through him and his hand drooped, hanging limp at his side. She was cheating: her humming was too muffled to hear if he went any further out of the room. Telling himself this was against his will, Sans shut and locked the bedroom door, went back to the bed, and stretched out in his usual spot, letting his eyes close and his SOUL soften as the sound lapped at him.

It was so nice to be safe with someone besides Papyrus, especially in a room big enough for him. He knew better than to be this happy with a human, and yet the thought of her really, actually coming home with him made him want to...he didn't know what, because he was out of practice at happiness. Smile, maybe? No, it was a deeper-down feeling than that. Grabbing her was out of the question. Sans tried to think of something else happy people were supposed to do, only to find that he couldn't move past the grabby option.

What did come to him was that quiet image of Kris holding his hand and beaming up at him. Yep, it still hurt. Hadn't he learned his lesson? He and Papyrus – all the monsters – had loved their little human buddy, and then he was gone, taking a tiny chunk of their SOULs with him.

It's not gonna happen this time, the boss monster argued with himself. We couldn't have stopped those assholes from taking Kris away 'cause he was a kid. She's the High damn Priestess, and if she wants to be Underground, we just have to tell the Kings to go to hell, and no one else can tell her what to do. She won't have to leave, and she doesn't have to marry that scratchy little prick!

The humming paused as Frisk pulled back the quilt to check if he was asleep. Sans grunted to let her know to keep going.

A patient sigh; the quilt came back up. "Sans?" she murmured.

"Hm?" The skeleton opened a citrine eye. "Wha?"

"Will you take me to the festival this evening? We can sleep until then, I promise."

"Hmm. D'I hafta put skin back on?"

"Yes, if you can. I don't want to make a scene. I just want to walk around, get some cider, and have my fortune told."

That made him open his other eye. "Fortune?"

"It's an All Souls tradition, a real one." Yawn. "There's a man, he charges too much, but everything he says..." Another yawn. "I have an important question. Don't want advice. Want to know what'll happen if I do or don't...something."

"Don't we all." Sans yawned, too. "Sure, we c'n go. Skin."

"Thank you."

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever ya want."

The humming resumed. As the world went fuzzy around the edges, Sans wondered idly what would happen if she did meet someone she liked. Couldn't he just kill the guy? If it happened a couple times in a row, word would get around, and she'd never have to marry anybody.

Yes. That was the perfect solution. Everything was perfect. Ignoring a little shiver of apprehension, Sans gave up thinking, and was asleep in moments.

#songfell i want to shake these characters

[second-chance-stray]

RP Log: Rising is sick, and Cravs won’t have it.

Cravendy Hound is busy moving all sorts of wooden furniture from her room to a series of boxes that litter the company foyer. It’s hard work, and something that demands her full attention until the task is done. She wipes her forehead free of sweat with the back of her hand. Finally, it was quiet again...and in that silence, perhaps there were subtle things that Cravs would now notice?

Rising Lotus at some point during Cravs moving everything back and forth, Rising had slipped through,  groaning a bit as she was still looking quite ill. She climbed the stairs to get herself some water, groggy curses coming from her mouth as most of the grub was moved up there some time ago. As she made her way to the bottom of the stairs, she leaned against the banister, watching Cravs move the stuff for quite a while, she didn't want to hold her up as she shambled back to her room.

Cravendy Hound: “Eh? Well, if it ain’t the flyin’ flower ‘erself.” Cravs claps her hands together in order to get the last bit of dust off of them, and then quickly jogs over before Rising is able to make it back to her room. Closer now, she’s able to see how much of a mess the other woman is. Clearly sick, and clearly suffering. Cravs stops in her tracks. “Oi bugger, ye look like shite...don’t tell me yer still sick?”

Rising Lotus cocked her head a bit as she was addressed. "Flyin'...oh, I get it." she let out a weak chuckle that turned into cough. "Yeah I guess so... don't usually get hit this...." her hand twirled as she tried to think of the word "Hard..? Ugh." sniffling, she ran her hand over her hair to try and unmess it up. "I'm at least able to walk about a bit now, was sleepin' all day first day."

(Cravendy Hound) I don't know what's worse. When it rains after snow and everything's gross slush, or after when the water freezes, forming ice/snow. And then everyone starts slipping, people + cars both D:< )) (Rising Lotus) The worst part is people that live in it for years that forget how to drive in it the second it starts up again. Also you really got me with Flying Flower x3))

Cravendy Hound crosses her arms with a frown, feeling somewhat responsible. If she had brought an umbrella, or hadn’t insisted on going fishing that day, then none of this would’ve happened. In fact, wasn’t Rising there when they were fighting the Dodo at Dirtpatch?! A judgement forms in Crav’s head...that Rising is just going to get worse if left to her own devices. Cravs shakes her head in concern. “What are ye dealin’ with? Fever, chills, a cough...?”

Rising Lotus nodded slowly after each symptom Cravs listed off "Aye..sneezin' an' uh... head feelin'..." bringing her hand close, she'd pull them apart with her fingers extending "Jus', ya know...pressure-y. Got some things to help with it, jus' still takin' awhile to get uh... " she brought her hand up to rub her temple "all better I guess. Ugh.."

(Cravendy Hound) hope it wasn't too confusing xD ))   (Rising Lotus) It was something where I read it and got it, then it got funnier and cuter the more I started thinking it over lol)) (Cravendy Hound) well here comes more blisteringly sweet stuff xD ))

Cravendy Hound: “Stop figetin’ for a sec, will ye?” Without thinking, Cravs lifts the hair that usually covers her face, and gets close to touch foreheads with Rising. She stays like this for a second, then pulls back looking angier than before. “Bloody scrag, ‘ow are ye even standin’ right now? Yer burning up. Come on, let’s get ye into a bed afore ye set the stairs on fire with that fever of yers.”

Cravendy Hound grabs Rising’s wrist and, while attempting to drag the other woman along, makes a beeline towards the clinic. It’s during this time that her actions begin to catch up in her mind. Damnit, old habits die hard. As soon as she could, she’d have to explain...that.

(Cravendy Hound) it's something my mom used to do w/ me :D )) (Cravendy Hound) ALSO Cravs def sees Rising like a lil sis (which she pretty much sees everyone as) but I'll throw wood onto the proverbial fire for potential goofy hijinks ))

Rising Lotus 's eyes went wide as Cravs was so suddenly touching foreheads with her, frozen as she wasn't quite sure how to react to, whatever was happening. "W-what are..." despite her paleness, there was the smallest tinge of red in her cheeks as Cravs pulled away. "O-oh...That's...huh." still processing, she was easily dragged along to wherever Cravs was taking her. As she watched her door pass by she started to weakly protest. "You don't have to toss me in there...don't want to be..." she lifted her arm to cough into her sleeve " a bother to people actually needin' the, the help."

(Cravendy Hound) ahhaha )) (Cravendy Hound) o we can move to the actual clinic. It looks super cool :> )) (Rising Lotus) Also that was super cute xD and it'll be good for Rising to have someone like that! Hasn't been close in anyone for while since her wife left))

Cravendy Hound chuckles at Rising’s weak protests. “This place is exactly for people like ye!” Cravs tugs her to the corner, and then sets her down on the bed. “Now, lie down ‘ere, and don’t move.” She commands, and then heads off to search the medical cabinets for anything that might help alleviate her friend’s symptoms. After some rummaging, she first comes back with a small hand towel, soaking in a bowl of cool water.

Cravendy Hound - As she lifts her sleeves and gets the towel ready, she rambles on absentmindedly. “I used to do this all the time for my little sis. She was always catchin’ colds and doin’ otherwise dumb shite...stupidly brave, she was.” Cravs pauses for a second, and then grimaces. “S-so that’s what the ‘ead bump was about! Er. Sorry. Probably crossed a line there.”

Rising Lotus plopped down onto the bed, groaning a bit as Cravs ordered her to lay down. She did it of course, but if her friend would ask it would because she wanted to. "You don't have to do all this ya know..." she sounded a bit sheepish "I can...probably.." considering how many days she was out maybe this was the proper course of action. A weak scowl escaped her lips "Gods damn it, we ain't known each other long enough for ya to see me in such a pitiful state." she rested her hand on her forehead >

Rising Lotus: Before dragging it down her face. Crav's explaining the forehead bopping did cause her to smirk though. "O-okay... d-don't do that to a girl without some warnin'..my ma always jus' used her hand back in the day."

Cravendy Hound awkwardly laughs in response. “I wasn’t thinkin’, but yeah. Yer right, yer right....” Memories of similarly awkward misunderstandings bubble to the surface, one after the other like a chain reaction. Cravs becomes as stiff as a board as she recalls a particularly embarrassing moment, one that made it all the way to the bedroom before she realized what was going on.

Cravendy Hound ‘s face slowly becomes beet red as the conversation that followed, terrible and idiotic, plays word for word back to her in her head. As her captain had always told her...she was as perceptive as a log when it came to things of that nature. Cravs abruptly clears her throat.

Cravendy Hound: “We’re both fighters. Nothin’ to be ashamed of. For every battle, there’s recovery.” She then presents the folded towel, pleasantly chilled, to Rising’s face. A gesture that, this time, asks...may I?

Rising Lotus grumbles a bit "I 'spose...won't get any cool scars or tales to tell 'bout it though." she gave Cravs a nod as the towel was brought over, the cool cloth helping to soothe her burning forehead. " Least it's jus' a cold this time...the last time I was, this..." she paused for a moment. "At least this sick...It was cause of a nasty bite." she raised her left arm up. "You can still kinda see it..." she must of thought she was pointing to it, but there was a fait bit mark on her forearm.

Rising Lotus: "Was poisonous too, an' the gobbie potion I took probably made it worse.." she took a deep breath before she continued, coughing lightly "So I was holed up in...the hole I lived in up there. Though Violet came all the way to help me...that was nice..." as she trailed off her eyes drifted towards the wall, staying silent on the matter after that.

Cravendy Hound places the towel over Rising’s forehead, and then peers at the scars on her arm. Healed over, but even still she could get a sense of how bad it was when the wound was fresh. Cravs bobs her head in admiration. “Must’ve been some bite. Were ye fightin’ some manner of ‘boro? Stinky buggers are all jaws, all legs. Bad business.”

Cravendy Hound doesn’t push about Violet. Though Cravs had a track record of bluntly nosing her way into other people’s business, it was only when she thought she could help. Here, she sensed Rising wasn’t ready to talk, and it certainly wasn’t her place to ask.

Rising Lotus "I can't say what it was. I mean, I KNOW what it is...I jus' can't.." she furrowed her brow as she apparently was having trouble with the word for not saying a word. "Ya know.. talk it. Great big bug..the bug folk in Dravania use 'em." she huffed, sounding a bit frustrated. "Gods, even thinkin' is takin' too much energy." a drawn out sigh left her lips, following by some more coughing. "Hey..." she looked up to Cravs "Thanks for..uh.. I guess this...not exactly draggin' me here but..."

Rising Lotus: flipped her hand up, hoping by now the Cravs would understand what she meant. " I 'spose this is probably a better place than my mess of a room.. an' the towel is far nicer than gettin' Hop to sit on my head."

Cravendy Hound: “Stop thinkin’ so much then, and get some rest. I’ll ask the medic to leave some medicine by the table for ye when ye wake up.” Cravs tilts her head, amused. She assumes ‘Hop’ is the sproutling that she’s seen trail Rising in the past, and looks around for it.

Cravendy Hound - Failing to find Hop, she gets ready to leave in order to give Rising some peace and quiet. Before she lets the curtain fall behind her, she turns around for one last thing. “If ye need anythin’, ye can...borrow this.” Cravs places a linkshell by the bedside table. “Don’t let me catch ye trippin’ down the stairs again.”

Rising Lotus nodded "Aye, I promis ya the next time ya see me, I'll be.." she shot Cravs a finger pistol, but couldn't quite get anything catchy out. She eventually gave up and shuffled in bed a bit, getting herself comfy. "I think I'll try restin' a bit till then though." her eyes started to drift closed, how could she feel so exhausted from just a trip up the stairs?

#ff14 rp logs #Cravendy Hound #Rising Lotus #SOFF......rp #it doesn't matter if the person is OLDER than cravs #if she's fond of you #she WILL be your guardian older sis #she WILL embarrass you #AND HERSELF

[oodanijadeoo]

Nature’s Balance (Ardyn x OC) Chapter 2

Vedrixia leaned against the Regalia in the blistering Liede heat. The car had broken down just a short while into their journey. Each member of the retinue looked as if they would soon melt into the interior of the Regalia, or in Prompto’s case, the tar of the road.

Gladio sighed as the fifth vehicle passed by without stopping, “I think we can forget about hitching our way there. Thought people were friendly outside the city.”

Piping up from the driver’s seat, “You can only go so far on the kindness of strangers,” Ignis said.

Vendrixia shed another layer of her Kingsglaive uniform, “Well, we’re going to have to figure something out before we all have to take a potion to save us from heat stroke.” She threw an arm across her eyes, attempting to block out some of the sunlight.

“Looks like we’re just gonna have to push her all the way,” said Gladio with a slightly revived energy.

“But I’ve already pushed myself,” Prompto began with an air of theatrics. “To the brink… of death!”

Vedrixia nudged his shoulder with the toe of her boot, popping off the back of the car, “Come on, up with you. The sooner we get this thing rolling the sooner we can get to some air conditioning.”

With that, Prompto was quickly on his feet.

“You too, Your Highness.”

Noctis merely grumbled, inciting Gladio to use a bit more force with the young prince.

He slapped him on the back, “Oh, get up.”

The four of them began pushing the Regalia with Ignis in the driver’s seat and the boys quickly began their usual banter.

“Let’s hope this isn’t some kind of omen.”

“Gladio, do me a favor,” the young prince said.

“What?”

“Push this thing by yourself.”

“All by myself?” He continued as Vedrixia chuckled quietly.

“You won’t even notice if we just let go,” Prompto chimed in. “Besides, my hands are killing me.”

“You rather I kill you with mine?” Gladio quickly retorted.

Vedrixia felt like the tension was getting to be a bit too much, “Hey now, you had better not get any blood on my boots. I just polished these so if you’re going to have a quick lesson in natural selection, I suggest you take it to the side of the road.”

“I concur,” Ignis commented from the front. “Cor did just send the Regalia to be waxed and surely would not appreciate and blood spilled on her.”

Noctis and Prompto both groaned.

This was going to be a long trip.

~~~

Finally making it to Hammerhead, each member of the party was thoroughly exhausted. Ignis and Gladio were both stretching their legs, walking around the Regalia while Prompto and Prince Noctis laid haphazardly on the ground. Vendrixia, on the other hand, was sprawled out in the backseat of the Regalia with her feet propped up against the passenger door.

“Hey there!” A high pitch, accented voice sounded from outside the vehicle. Vedrixia raised her head just in time to see Prompto stumbling to his feet. He looked as though he had never seen anyone of the female gender before. “Y’all sure kept a girl waitin’!”

The barely-clothed blonde glanced around their group, “Now which one’s the Prince?”

Noctis popped up from the other side of the Regalia behind Vedrixia’s head as she took her cue to straighten up and exit the vehicle.

“A-ha! Hello, your Highness!” The blonde said, popping a hip out. “Congrats on your wedding!”

“Not hitched just yet,” Noctis replied, scratching the back of his head.

“Lady Lunafreya’s groom-to-be, here in Hammerhead,” She said in awe.

Ignis joined in the conversation, “Apologies for taking so long.”

“You’d best be savin’ your apologies for Paw-Paw,” She said seriously.

Gladio rounded the car, “Well that makes you…”

“Cindy,” Finally, a name, Vedrixia thought. “Cid’s grease-monkey granddaughter.”

A crackling voice sounded from within the shop, “Roll ‘er in while I’m still young!”

“I suspect that’s Cid?” Drix asked Cindy. She gave a hum and nod of her head.

Cindy’s aging grandfather made his way to the group, “Didn’t yer daddy tell ya? She’s a custom classic, not some beat up ol' clunker.” His expression was enthralled in reminiscence and nostalgia. Cid’s gaze shifted to the young man, “Prince Noctis.”

“Uh, yeah.”

Vedrixia scoffed at the boy and crossed her arms. The lack of respect the young prince could exhibit was astounding to the Glaive. She had received many slaps to the back of the head from Cor due to ill-timed sass in her youth. Being seven years older than the prince, she knew he had a lot to learn in a very short amount of time.

“Prince,” Cid shook his head, indignant. “Like they took your old man and kicked the dignity out of him.”

That certainly caught the Prince’s attention. “What?”

“You got a long way to go, son,” Cid began grimly. “And that slack jaw’s gettin’ you nowhere fast. She’s gonna take a while, y’all get ‘er in and run along.”

Cindy watched as her grandfather made his way back to the shop, “Y’all heard him! Let’s get moving.”

~~~

Vedrixia walked around the outpost, kicking rocks and cans. She sipped on a can of Ebony she purchased with the little gil she brought with her. Vedrixia knew she would need a caffeine boost if she was going to make it the rest of the afternoon without biting off the young prince’s head.

Vedrixia had just picked up a stick to swirl around in the dirt when- click. 

Whipping around just in time to be stunned by the flash of a camera, she rubbed her eyes and soon saw shocked Prompto that knew he had been caught. 

“Sorry,” Prompto laughed nervously. “I hope you don’t mind me taking your picture, Ms. Astaroth. I like to take photos on our trips for… memories… and stuff…” he trailed off, looking everywhere but Vedrixia out of embarrassment. 

Vedrixia laughed lightly, “That’s alright.” She smiled warmly at him, “Your reputation with a camera has made its way around in the Kingsglaive, so I expected nothing less.”

“Oh,” He sputtered, hanging the camera back around his neck. “I didn’t know.”

Vedrixia turned her attention back to her stick and dirt, “Yep. And you can stop with the “Ms. Astaroth” deal. We’re going to be here for a while so we might as well call each other by our first names. Not to mention, it makes me feel old.” She grimaced and stuck her tongue out as if the mere thought left a bad taste in her mouth. “You can call me Vedrixia, or Drix if you prefer. And that applies to you as well, Ignis, Gladio,” she spoke louder to the two boys sitting on the bench.

“I suppose you’re right,” Ignis said, pushing up his glasses in the most dignified manner. “This has been a most inconvenient delay.”

“Yeah, and this “inconvenient delay” is making me stir crazy,” Gladio ran his hands along his face, stretching his legs out. 

“I may be able to amend that shortly, I must go discuss our dwindling funds with Noctis,” Ignis said, rising to his feet.

As Ignis went to go find Noctis and Prompto busied himself with taking photographs, Gladio decided to strike up a conversation with Vedrixia.

“So, Drix,” He began, testing out the nickname. “How long have you been a member of the Glaive?”

Drix stood up to face Gladio pacing along with her stick in front of him, “Let’s see, this will make…” She drew out the word, counting in her head, “Eight years? Although I trained with Cor for four years. He wouldn’t let me join until my nineteenth birthday. Something about it being too ‘dangerous.’” She scoffed, chuckling lightly at the thought. 

“Nineteen, huh? So that would make you…”

“Twenty-seven,” She answered. “I’m practically ancient!” Drix said in a dramatic voice, raising a hand to her forehead as if she might faint at any moment.

Gladio hummed in agreement as he looked away, never appearing fully engaged in the conversation.

“I don’t know why the King thought we needed a Glaive to come with us,” He said suddenly. Drix stopped her pacing, sensing the conversation was about to take a sharp turn.

She chose her next words carefully, “I don’t fully know either. Cor didn’t tell me any reason to need extra security, aside from it being the Prince’s wedding, of course.”

“Well, if Cor didn’t give you any extra reason to be here, it sounds to me like you shouldn’t be here at all.”

And there was the guard rail.

Vedrixia clenched her fist and opened it back again, shutting her eyes and breathing deeply. Don’t piss off the Guard, Cor will ream my ass. Don’t piss off the Guard, Cor will ream my ass.

After thinking over her mantra several times, Vedrixia responded, “I can assure you, Gladiolus, that while neither of us may be aware of why I am here, I can assure you the need exists, otherwise King Regis would not have requested my presence. Furthermore, I promise you that whether or not I know my reason for being here, I will perform my duties as a Kingsglaive to protect Prince Noctis to the fullest of my abilities, whether or not you find a need for me.” As her defense went along, Vedrixia had slowly begun to stand at Glaive Attention. Then, she noticed a faint golden glow coming from one of her clenched fists. Deciding she had elevated her blood pressure to the point of hallucination, Drix gave Gladio a curt nod and went to find Ignis and the Prince.

#ffxv #ffxv fanfiction #ardyn #ardyn izunia #ardyn x oc #ardyn lucis caelum #fanfiction #fanfic #drix is gonna fight gladio #kingsglaive #noctis #noctis lucis caelum #ignis #ignis scientia #gladio #gladiolus amicitia #prompto #prompto argentum

[askdawnandvern]

Vernon: Er...I don't know iffin' I want to touch on that.

Zach: C'mon now Vern, the little Miss ain't here fer this one. So it ain't like it's gonna make her feel bad.

Vernon: What if she reads this later?

Vanna: Not to put more strain on you Vernon, but if I recall Dawn is quite adamant about facing the truth in order to heal. She doesn't want to 'forget' what she did so that she can continually strive to be a better mammal.

Vernon: Yeah, but hearin' the same stories constantly can't be good fer long term moral. How many times we gotta talk about these experiences before it's 'enough'?

Dorian: One last time then? Fer the sake of who asked it. After that, we'll try and avoid this kinda talk from now on.

Vernon: *Sigh* Fine...Well....Durin' the incident I was in college, studyin' architecture. When it first came to light that preds were goin' 'Savage', most of the folks at school thought it was some sorta disease.

Vanna: There was a similar sentiment at the ZPD. Although there were a few who feared-.

Vernon: That it really did have something to do with a preds 'nature'?

Vanna: *Nods*

Vernon: Well there were no shortage of them folks too, especially among the prey students. Eventually, protests broke out, prey protestin' preds goin' to school durin' the epidemic, preds standing up for their rights to go. I tried to keep my head down and out of it, focusin' on the schoolwork and leavin' my personal worries about the howler fer when I was home. But eventually things got so bad most of the pred folk were permitted to stay home and finish out their classes online to avoid any trouble on campus, and I took the out.

Zach: We had to deal with a lot of sheep protestin', neighbors we thought we knew startin' to look at us sideways.

Dorian: Prey became more aggressive outta fear, made 'em less cooperative with us preds in law-enforcement. Then as things got worse a bunch of our pred officers started stayin' home and refusin' to work. They were afraid of turnin' on a neighbor or innocent citizen at the drop of a hat due to whatever the howler was. That left us purty strained, lots of long shifts on nothin' but coffee fumes and collapsing into bed as soon as we finally got home only to get about two to three hours sleep at most.

Vanna: The ZPD also started losing officers in droves. Those preds who didn't see themselves shifted to out of sight desk positions either resigned or took out all their vacation days in order to wait out the storm, even if there didn't seem to be an end in sight.

Yuri: Seaodder didn't see to much of a frenzy over it. I mean there were o' course the hushed whispers of stuff among the preds on the force and a few prey perps, but generally the fact that it hadn't spread outside of Zootopia's borders kept it from affectin' thangs all too much.

Xavier: It was similar in San Francisgoat, although it was definitely more talked about. Nearly every public television was constantly fixed to ZNN, keeping the howler epidemic on almost every mammal's mind.

Malcolm: It was a frequent topic of conversation at the diner. Pred and prey musin' over the cause, arguments sometimes breakin' out whenever someone started to lean on what that bunny said might of been the cause. Had to kick a few customers out over them kinda scrapes.

Xavier: On the streets however, most mammals were still civilized. No riots, no protests. If it wasn't in our state, it wasn't urgent.

Trenton: Durin' the Howler scare, I got a lot of uncomfortable glares from the various burrowfolk I had to deal with. Not that I didn't get them before, there just was a sharp uptick. It weren't all that much of a surprise though. In the burrows, old beliefs die hard, and new 'evidence' just provides vindication.

Qali: It was hard not just for my family, but our community. Foxes glen is largely a pred town. Foxes, wolves, a stray puma or bear. Our prey population is very small. But during the howler epidemic it got that much smaller. A lot of the prey folk went on long term trips to stay with family, and some went as far as moving out entirely. Thankfully it didn't cut into the local economy too sharply, but it took a bit of a toll on moral, and it made a lot of us scared that our farms would go under due to the pervading fear of predators cutting our customer count during harvest season.

Wade: I was put behind a desk, as was my partner. Of course, it was a huge strain on Precinct three, not just because we were put behind the desk, but more than half of our staff was. I mean, it's no secret that the Tundratown ZPD is made up largely of pred officers. The other precincts had to help pick up the slack, and they were already strained as it was. As fer my personal life, I played it like Vern. Kept my head down, limited myself to work and home, and to occasional grocery pick up. I was just prayin' it would all blow over soon.

Ada: While it may have been easy for ol' Yuri dere, da hospital was hell. Wese always had an issue wit employee retention, but neva was it more strained den durin' da night howler ting. I mean, da hospital was considad ground zero at da time in toims of gettin' infected. Most preds taught it was a disease, and so woikin' a hospital was a big risk in most o' dere eyes. It also made prey patient more scared of bein' treated by pred doctas' to da point where we always had to have a big, honkin' prey nurse accompany every prey docta around to put da patient at ease.

Audrey: Thankfully it wasn't the season for corn and pies or I'm sure my stall woulda suffered fer it, but I still got looks from the neighbors, hell even old friends. Mammals I knew since I was a pup even hesitated around me just a might. They may not a thought I noticed, but I did. I can't say it didn't make me sad, but I can't say I blame 'em either.

Vernon: Afterward? Well I mean things mostly went back to how they was. Sure, there was a few pred supremacist marches and so on, but the quickly tapered off as the majority of the city seemed more interested in mendin' the wounds. Most mammals weren't willin' to hear out folk blamin' 'all sheep' fer what happened, rather than the actual...er...culprit...and I'm thankful for that.

Dorian: It was worse up here, as y'all know. The native wolves dug in sharply, takin' the opportunity of what Dawn did to try and draw more folks into their way of thinkin'. And of course, y'all know what happened next...

Zach: I still don't regret it. If not for saving that little lambs life, than for the damage the shooting did to that little attempt at a native wolf revival movement. Pretty much all support fer anti-prey sentiment dried up thanks to that nut and his pistol.

Wade: Me and my partner went right back on duty. It was almost as if nothing had changed, which was kind of a relief. I was afraid there would be a dark cloud hanging over the station ferever after what happened. But hey, that's the Tundra Town way I guess, resilient in the face of unyielding cold and what not.

Qali: While the mammals who moved away never actually returned, maybe because it was easier, or maybe out of shame, the other families did. Most of the prey who returned went above and beyond to apologize to everyone they could, of course most refused to accept the apology, my Dad included.

Ada: Dat's cold.

Qali: Not like that. I mean they felt that their neighbors had nothing to apologize for. Most of them felt that had they been in the shoes of their prey neighbors, they would have done the same, especially if the had kits. Still, that didn't stop most of the pred families from getting buried in baked goods. *giggles*

Vanna: I transferred to the North Meadowlands, so my experience was muted significantly. By the time I was working with Zach, the tension in the community was fading fast.

Macolm: Things purty much went back to normal at my diner. The arguments over what was the cause o' the whole night howler problem went right back to arguin' over who's sport team was the best.

Xavier: Only thing that changed for me at that point was an uptick in discrimination suits. Most of the prey discriminating predator out of fear of the whole night howler issue when it was thought to be an illness or mental problem. Despite the case being solved, those civil suits still needed to be settled regardless, although if I remember most of the prey mammals in those cases ended up settling.

Ada: Da hospital was still strained o' course, but it was less bad den it was durin' da whole epidemic. Da patients got less finnicky about who took care of 'em, and we even managed to snag some new recruits afta a few weeks to lessen da load on da rest of us.

Audrey: After what happened to Zach, any bit o' hesitation on the part of my neighbors and friends kinda vanished overnight, instead replaced with guilty admissions and lump sum payments in baked goods.

Vernon: I hope y'all got what ya wanted to hear from this...I don't imagine it was too entertainin'...

Wade: Kind of a downer really...

Vernon: But now we never have to talk about this again...I hope.

#Zootopia #askdawnandvern #ask blog #Assistant Mayor Bellwether #zoosona #fan character #wastedtimeee

[bloodvvit]

[Wanted to write a little ‘slice of life’ look into how Kai was raised once the Boss took him on, as he was mostly looked after by a higher ranking kyodai named Izo. Kai idolizes the boss, but also takes a shine to Izo, seeing him as kind of a older brother/mentor figure.]

Kai’s long eyelashes fluttered against the high angle of his cheekbone as he roused, having not realized he’d dozed off while lounging at the foot of Izo’s mattress. Curled up with his knees to his chest and his skinny arms tangled around a pillow, the fifteen year old squinted against the light unhappily. With a slow stretch in place, he pushed himself to a sitting position and got smacked in the face with a discarded shirt.

“You’re still getting dressed?” the youth accused in an irritated tone. Huffing softly, the young yakuza heir jerked the colorful fabric from around his skull. Rather than throw it back at the preening, indecisive gangster pacing before his closet mirror, Kai expertly flapped the article of clothing out by the shoulder seams and carefully laid it down atop the length of the bed to join the rest of the kyodai’s wardrobe.

“We’re never going leave if you’re taking this long… Why does it matter, anyway? Is it a big meeting between the Bosses?” he asked, sounding miles more interested, if that was the case- rather than watch the man mull over more suits.

Izo held one shirt, then another over his chest as he inspected his reflection in his newly bought and installed full length mirror. Both looked equally good on his skinny frame. That was the one good thing about being built like a tall lamp post — it was easy finding clothing. Nearly anything he bought looked good when it was hanging off his bony shoulders.

“Nah, go back to sleep. I’ve got a hot date tonight,” Izo said as he turned sideways and tried yet another shirt. “Well, not really. I got a meet and greet with some of the guys at a hostess club. I might as well try not to look too shabby.”

The juvenile yakuza frowned even more at this revelation. And here, he’d been hoping for a fun and exciting evening out, not being abandoned at headquarters, when he could have been spending more time leaning how their business worked.

“And you’re wasting time on an outfit? You usually bring me along…” Kai frowned and narrowed his eyes, following the vivid lines of elaborate inkwork decorating Izo’s back, shoulders, and arms in a curious fashion. He’d seen them before, it wasn’t like his partner didn’t leap at the chance to show them off.

“Hey, aniki… Your tattoos. The last time I asked, you said they have certain meanings. Can you tell me more about them now?” he asked in a hopeful, but careful tone of voice. “We’ve been partners for the past three years, almost.”

Heh. Precocious boy slinging emotional words like ‘partners’ around. His devotion to hustling was adorable. Izo knew better, but the sweet way the brat went about saying it was like drinking down warm honey. It was a pleasant kind of warmth. 

“The outfit’s like a storefront window, it’s for convincing,” Izo said as he looked over his shoulder at Chisaki’s ward. He wasn’t looking so sleepy now, and his intense stare made Izo lift an arm to check out the black lines snaking about his rib cage. The ink work wasn’t done yet, just a series of outlines scattered about his shoulders and back. The goal was to eventually get a whole shirt done, but until that happened, Izo was content to only brave the parlors sporadically  It depended when his mood and tolerance for pain was highest.

“They mean a buncha stuff,” Izo hedged, “Sorta slogans like ‘I’m good at this sorta shit’, ‘I believe in that’. Some of it is because ‘a guy I respect has something like it’. Water’s obvious, you already know that one.” After a pause, Izo draped his shirt over the back of his chair. “They’re pretty nice, right?”

“I didn’t think there’d be so many… flowers,” Kai pointed out, unable to mask the wrinkling of his upturned nose at the thought. Eyelids lowering to half-mast, he quite visibly began mulling something over in his mind.

“I was wondering if the Boss was thinking I might have earned the right to get one yet. You think maybe that might happen sooner or later?”

Izo  twisted to look incredulously at the boy on his bed. “What’s wrong with flowers? The’re perfectly manly. Ain’t like they’re roses or nothing. They’re not on my back because they’re romantic.” 

They were there proclaiming his sense of duty, his loyalty and clear mind. They spoke of death and single-minded purpose. His skin was there for important stories and words. He’d sooner cut himself than get something like his girl’s name.

“They’re there for the things I don’t wanna say out loud. Anyone that knows about what ink means will know what they’re sayin’. As for you gettin’ yours…”

 Izo eyed Kai critically. Was he actually serious? He was already that enthusiastic about being a made man? Izo chuckled, “You’re a bit big for your britches already. Nah, it’ll be later. Boss don’t have much truck on taking kiddies on. You’ve got a few more years to go.”

“I didn’t mean anything by it, I just- The last meeting you took me to was the first time I’d even seen the Boss’ ink before and those were… you know, dragons,” Kai explained matter-of-factly. The last thing he wanted was Izo thinking he didn’t understand or respect the meaning behind the imagery.

The teen folded his lean arms beneath his chin, both sharp elbows jutting over the edge at the foot of the mattress. “I was just thinking if I’m gonna stay on, then I should start thinking about it now. Or learning what that stuff all means, like you. I’m not stupid, you know… Wasn’t like I wanted to get something just to flash it at the nearest person on the street.”

Kai rested his chin on his crossed arms and sighed loudly. “Even if the Boss thought I was ready, I guess I just want know what he’d pick. It wouldn’t mean the same thing if it were up to me, right…? That’d be no different than if any civvie waltzed into a parlor and got something done for bragging rights- they don’t earn that like we do,” Kai reflected, often failing to censor his own thoughts due to his familiarity with the gangster he worked with, or simply due to his age.

Izo turned around, folding his arms over his chest as he looked Kai over. Eyes still too big for his head, despite the roundness of his cheeks. Skinny, gawky limbs that were only going to get even gawkier once he started growing — which hadn’t happened yet (and likely wouldn’t any time soon, if he didn’t start eating more.) Izo hadn’t been much older when he’d started getting seriously in over his head, doing significantly more involved things than running messages. That’d been his own damn fault, though. He’d had too big a mouth, had been too smart for his own good and run in ahead right into things he should have steered clear of, if he’d only known better.

Kai had a good little schtick going. He liked to talk big, even going so far as to act like he was already willing to go whole hog into the sorta life Izo was leading. It was a pretty good life, Izo thought, it had its perks, he got pocket money. But talking big and going so far as to get an ill-advised tattoo while sober, well… those were two entirely different things.

Izo crossed his arms over his chest as he hunched over the bed, brows drawing together. “The boss doesn’t pick it. You do. Like I said, they tell a story and it’s the kinda stuff you wanna say but don’t have real good words for it, because saying it would be lame. Get it?” 

Izo turned to the side and twisted, pulling his arms up to show a spot on his rib cage where the outline of a crane was placed. It had yet to be colored in. 

“See this? Got this because of a guy I knew — real swell guy. He’s old now, so he’s sick and dying. Helped me out of  some tight spots and I owe him.  He always had a thing for those weird-ass birds, so I’m getting this put on there as a thank you. Hopefully it’ll get done and I can show it to him before he kicks the bucket.”

“It’s up to you what you wanna say. Most guys just stick with stuff like, ‘I’m strong and I can tear people’s heads off with my damn teeth like a pregnant bear.’ The boss’s dragon means he’s like the emperor. Getting the ink means you’re a made man, but you don’t wanna get a mark someone picks for you either because it makes you theirs. You pick it because it’s what you wanna say. Got it?” Izo hesitated, then added, “There’s some that do that — let someone put their mark on them. I hear some families are into that too, like branding farm animals. If anyone says they wanna do that with you, you tell ‘em no, kick ‘em real good and come and tell me.”  

Kai was far too young for those sorts of relationships and if anyone offered, that meant they were real creeps. Izo would cut bits off them in private somewhere.

The kid pushed his hands against the bed to get a better look, glancing from the silhouette of the bird coming to life on Izo’s darker skin, then back to the elder man’s face as he spoke. Kai had assumed the messages intended to be expressed through the tattoos were qualities others had to see and ‘confirm’ before making them yakuza language fact. To everyone else, he was just like any other middle school student in Tokyo. Now that he was officially partnered with a made man like his 'brother’, he felt… important. Not the way the Boss was important, but needed- Useful, like a part of the machine that was efficiently performing it’s role. In a strange way, Kai felt getting inked might confirm that- solidify his place within their ranks and as the heir to the Boss’ legacy.

“Yeah. I understand now,” he answered confidently, nodding once in affirmation. His gaze followed the swooping 'brushstroke’ of the bird’s neck as it melded to it’s back and folded wings curiously, frowning in silence as one of the notches of Izo’s ribs expanded with his breathing. “Does it hurt a lot? Especially places like these?” he asked, pointing at the thin layer of skin and muscle barely masking the bony landmark.

Izo shrugged, always a bit surprised how into medical stuff the kid was. He didn’t recall ever being like that at the same age. “Well, it always hurts when there’s not a lotta meat. I don’t have much all over, though. It’s not too bad.” 

Actually, it hurt like a bitch and Izo had let everyone up and down the street know he was getting his ink done just by all his screaming. But Kai’s wide-eyed look was laying it on a bit thick, wasn’t he? Izo had to give him props for consistency, though. The teen never let up with his schtick and he had to admit in his crusty, old-young heart that there were times he was quite warmed by it. Izo reached out to press down hard on Kai’s head, sending him tumbling. When he was down, Izo dug his knuckles into the teenager’s scalp for good measure. Straightening, he grunted, “What’s this about you wanting ink anyway? Why all a sudden?”

“Hey! Come on- Stop,” the kid half-laughed, half-ordered, trying to dodge the elder man’s hands until he’d lost his balance and tumbled from the bed. He rolled from the foot of the mattress and landed in a soft pile of discarded suits Izo had thrown, unceremoniously, to the floor- vibrantly dyed and patterned silks and sharkskin cushioning Kai’s coltish knees as he fended off more brotherly harassment. The question made him pause and look back up the rail-thin length of Izo’s slouching frame, blinking once as he stared back at that narrow-eyed, searching gaze reading his own expression and body language.

“Like I said. It’s been three years. I just thought, maybe… then we’d be blood brothers. You know, officially. That’s all,” he said, brushing Izo off and leaning back against the foot of the bed. He straightened his hair back out with a few brisk tugs of his thin fingers, tilting his chin up as though challenging the man to say otherwise.

Izo tsks, tongue pressed against the back of his teeth as his movements still and he stares down at Kai staring up at him with that far too serious glare.

The brat. How was he going to say no to a request like that? 

“Ah, you really know what to say, eh? Thought a lot about it, did you?” Scripted or not, he was good. Izo was melting a little despite himself.  He grabbed Kai’s head, looping an arm around his neck and squeezing as he roughly ground his knuckles in with a renewed vengeance. “Think you’re such a big man, EH?”

When he eventually released the boy, letting him drop to the hard floor like he was dropping a sack of rice. He turned back toward the mirror and dragged his fingers through his hair to work out some of the new tangles. Izo made a face and gave up on wearing it down. Finding a tie, he gripped it between his teeth and pulled his hair back away from his face to reveal sharp features that looked too narrow, too fox-like for even his own tastes. 

“Alright, since you say it so nicely, kid,” he muttered around the tie, “You can get what you want. But if it’s stupid looking, it’s on you. Remember that.”

#♛ WRITING #♛ META

[defleurtradingco]

Epoch- Pain

(Previous: Cruelty, Next: Film)

Verdei’s house, considering the situation, was quite cozy. He was well to do and if anything, it kept Solaina wondering why he’d invited them all there in the first place.

She was sure it was going to be a trap of some sort.

Gray was the first to disappear, as per usual, just like he’d done at Osy’s house. As soon as they all stepped inside, he made a rush for the FARTHEST room in the house from the front door to sit and sulk.

“He did that th’ last time I had’im,” Monte had said.

Solaina could only grimace to express whatever she was feeling by that point.

Disgust? Discomfort? What?? She wasn’t exactly sure, but it wasn’t anything good.

Children...all of them…

“I know this whole thing must seem a pain, an’ frankly it is, I won’t lie ta you. Not that I ever intended ta do so in the first place.” They reconvened around the dining room table, with Verdei standing on one side, and Solaina and Monte standing on the other.

She had her arms crossed as she drummed her fingers. “Seeing as unexpected things keep happening, I want to be very brief with this. Grayson has asked me to help him locate his family. He was found out in the desert by my employee Mr. Wormbane here, and since then, he has been trying to assist him in doing so as well.

And now we are here. In your house.”

“Right then.” Verdei sighed, resisting the urge to roll his eyes back into his skull. “My turn.

Gray’s been singin’ the same song fer years about the whole family thing.”

“What?”

“Frankly I ain’t so sure about it myself. I think they up n’ left if ya ask me.”

Solaina furrowed her brows in confusion. “What do you mean?” “Y’ found ‘im out there in the desert right? Did’e have anything on’im?” Verdei turned his attention to Monte.

“Hmm...no, can’t say I did. Just himself all chewed up. Them ghouls musta gotten to’m.”

“Uh-uh.” Verdei shook his head. “Ya might think it weird fer a cop ta suddenly step outta line (you know what I mean) in regards to the whole lil’ stunt I pulled out there when I pulled ya over. Now if I HADN’T, then it woulda been off ta the slammer again fer’im fer illegal drug and supply trafficking. You think general law enforcement’s gonna know what th’ hell t’ do with someone like him?” “Wait-” Solaina pinched the bridge of her nose. She was starting to get a headache with each new reveal. “How do you know this?” “How do YOU think? Stick my nose where it don’t belong, it’s easy. Specially if ya happen ta catch the idiot on camera, along with OTHER idiots.

Ain’t like they don’t know about him. Got warrants out fer ‘im. In fact, I should be turnin’ his sorry ass in, but I never do.”

“What places is he bringing these materials to??” Solaina asked. “Is it somewhere nearby? Are there others who have been caught doing the same thing?” Her head was reeling back to the conversation she and Liam had had.

Other Weres being caught with supplies, out in the middle of the desert.

Gray was a Were. He had to have been. He was one of them.

“From what I been able ta dig up? Lil’ hospitals and practices here n’ there that so far all seem ta be privately owned by that big ol’ gene therapy lab. They do a lotta outsourcing.” “Gene therapy lab?” “Oh yeah,” Monte poked at the inside of his remaining cheek with his tongue. “I saw th’ billboard fer that big ol’ thing on th’ drive up n’ through the Strip when I got here. Phoenix Labs or somethin’ right? Din’t pay too much attention ta it, they cure like...uh… illnesses n’ stuff right?” “That’s what they say, yes,” Verdei nodded, “Heavy research inta exactly what it says. Genes. Only time anyone hears about them is if there’s bad news. They don’t tend ta publish very many things out fer the public ta see. Kinda makes ‘em look like a shady bunch if ya ask me.”

“So Grayson delivers supplies for them.

And he did not think to tell me this?” At the rate she was going, even ibuprofen wasn’t going to stop the headache that was now developing in the back of her head. What else could Gray be omitting? Why? Was it supposed to be a secret? Obviously.

“I got a feelin’ they’re watchin’ him. And by proxy, us too.” Verdei’s eyes wandered towards a window. The curtains were drawn over it so no one could look in. “’S all a work in progress on my part though. Been tryin’ ta crack THAT case fer years but THIS ONE over here,” Gray, “keeps disappearin’ on me. And y’know, doesn’t help me. At all. What with the robberies and what have ya. And that’s just ta start.”

“Boy this rabbit hole sure keeps gettin’ deeper. An’ we’re stickin’ our necks inta it further n’ further,” Monte exclaimed with a note of humor in his voice. He was far from amused by the whole lying thing though. “So then, cat-boy likes lyin’ ta folks who genuinely try ta help huh? A’right then. I’ll keep a note of that up here fer later,” He tapped at his forehead in exasperation as he turned to face Solaina. “I dunno if we should get caught up in all this Solaina. Might be best if we head off-”

Solaina had a hand over her mouth and under her chin in thought. “Why have I not heard of such a place before...I know they exist but...”

Monte shrugged. “Dunno. Whatever it is they’re doin’ though, even IF Weres are involved- ain’t that supposed ta be Adrian’s business?” “Adrian,” Solaina scoffed. “He has not done so much as lift a single finger in regards to taking care of his own district. And if he will not, then I must.” She eyed Verdei again. “I had received reports about there being other Weres found in the desert much like Mr. Randal, only they were caught with the same supplies that you described. From there they were always turned over to local enforcement, as a military base is not exactly equipped nor staffed to take care of such things. Nor is that their primary duty.” “Military base?” Verdei raised a brow. “You mean-” Before he could continue, Solaina had already grabbed a napkin off a table and a nearby pen from a cup. “Do you happen to have the address of the main building of this Phoenix Lab company? Are they here in the Las Vegas area?” The officer shook his head. “Nah, no address anywhere I’ve looked. Which is kinda weird. I thought too maybe they’d have some kinda facility open in th’ city, since, ya know, Las Vegas. Big spenders there. Nada though.”

“What about the city’s public records?” “I mean, ya could try there. I ain’t had th’ time to, an’ the few times I did look I din’t come across nothing-”

“There may be something worth looking into there, if there is anything. Or maybe-”

Monte began to tune the both of them out after a while, opting to move away from the kitchen table. That was all they’d done at Liam’s house anyway. More discussing, more table-surrounding.

He’d had his fill for one day. A day and a night rather.

So he stepped outside, hands in his pocket. Only one came out with his phone as he sat on the porch to text away.

Been a bit of a delay. Might be some more days. Solaina’s gotten her nose into something again and no one’s around to help her. I’ll keep ya posted.

Aw...ok. Well do whatever you gotta do.

I know. Big Chinese buffet night when I get back, my dime.

Sounds good! Firefly misses you.

A picture came then of a horse showing its teeth at the camera. And at a hideous angle to make it all the worse.

Monte cringed.

Gee thanks honeybee.

#epoch #solaina whispers 'finally someone whos actually got a brain holy shit' #well partially anyway #monte just wants to go home #grays going through his emo phase in rapid fire and a liar

[ask-the-phan-site]

Phan Cam: Return of Distortion

DISCLAIMER: Some of the people who will appear here are based off of real people. So I would like to apologize in advance to the Booth family for their portrayal in this post. Also, I like to warn you that this post might be long.

>Cafe Leblanc in Yongen-Jaya. Me and the others (except for Queen, Panther, and Crow) were already there with Skull’s mother. When she found her son wasn’t home, she demanded an explanation. So... We told her the truth.

Mrs. Sakamoto: (no other picture of her other than her smiling available) My... That’s... That’s a lot to absorb.

I know how you feel. My heart almost stopped when I learned the truth.

I’m sorry you had to learn about it like this.

Believe us, if Ryuji did wanted you to know, he would tell you the best way he could.

Mrs. Sakamoto: It’s not your fault, Futaba chan... But to be honest, I had a feeling my son was a Phantom Thief for some time now. I just wasn’t sure about it until now.

Again, we’re sorry about this. Especially after what just happened.

Mrs. Sakamoto: What did happen to Ryu kun?

>Suddenly, we hear a car pull up.

That must be them now.

Ren: I should warn you, you may wish to brace yourself for what your about to see.

>Mrs. Sakamoto nods her head. Then the door opens.

This is going to be a tight fit.

Ryuji, can't you just suck it up?

Ryuji’s voice: It doesn't work like that. This armor may be my body, but it ain’t flexible like one.

Akechi’s voice: Could someone help on the other side? I can push, but we need someone to pull.

Ren: I’ll do it.

Yusuke: I’ll help as well.

?????: I suppose I’ll help as well.

I know that voice... Toshi? Is that you on the other side?

Man’s voice: Who else? Kuchisake-onna? (laughs a bit) Now are you helping or what?

>Me and Yusuke take Ryuji’s “hand” and we pull. We pulled and pulled until finally, he got through.

Finally. I thought I was never gettin’ through. Thanks.

Ren: No problem.

>Mrs. Sakamoto walks up to her son, still unable to believe her eyes.

Mrs. Sakamoto: ... Ryu kun?

Ryuji: Hi, Mom. I’m sorry I didn’t show up at the apartment... So, how are you?

>With that, Mrs. Sakamoto nearly faints. Luckily, the stranger who helped us catches her.

Nice catch, Mr... Toshi, wasn’t it?

Mister Toshi was my father. It’s just Toshi. And thank you, Detective Prince.

Ryuji: Will my mom be okay?

Boss: Just in case, I keep smelling salts in the back.

Haru: I’ll get them.

>Haru goes to get the smelling salts.

I guess she’s still reeling. I know I am.

Y- You’re...

Ann: I’m sorry, you guys... But my mom sort of came with me.

Your mom? Oh boy, this is going to be some day.

Ann’s mother: Katherine McBride. Don’t worry, I have no intention of revealing that you’re the Phantom Thieves. Ann trusts you too much.

Toshi: I knew who you guys are for a while, and I also don’t have a reason to turn you in, either.

Ann: How did you know?

Futaba: That’s easy... Because he’s Toshi. One of Japan's most famous enigmas.

Toshi: I wouldn't say famous... More like well known.

Same difference.

Mrs. Sakamoto: (just getting up) How- How did this happen?

Ryuji: That what I would like to know. How did I become... Become...

Futaba: Overflow.

Ryuji: Huh?

Futaba: That’s the name of the alien you’ve turned into. Overflow. Well, I’m guessing it has something to do with that.

>She was pointing at the symbol on Ryuji’s chest.

Makoto: The Omnitrix? Of course, Ben Tennyson uses the Omnitrix to turn into different aliens.

Katherine: So, we just have to remove it and he should change back, right?

???????: That would be ill advised.

Toshi: Are they here already?

Sorry. We’re not the chap you were thinking.

Can’t blame you, though. We have that kind of effect on people.

That’s one way of putting it.

Everyone (except Katherine, Toshi, and Mrs. Sakamoto): Professor Paradox!? Bruce Sato!?

And... Aren’t you the Hellblazer?

Smooth hobo: I prefer John Constantine.

Ren: What are you doing here?

Paradox: I was touring a bit of the future when I saw this happening. Your friend becoming one of the former aliens of the newest incarnation of our Benjamin Tennyson.

Constantine: I learned about your predicament while I was at that apartment of yours.

Bruce: And Chihaya called me to come here.

Mrs. Sakamoto: Do you... Think you can help my son?

Constantine: Hard to say. This was done with both magic and science. But one thing’s for certain though, removing that symbol won’t help him.

Paradox: Indeed. I’ve spoken to Azmuth who spoke to another Azmuth. That Omnitrix badge is now completely embedded in his heart, sending pulses to keep it going. If we remove it, the effects could be lethal to your son.

Makoto: So you’re saying that badge is the only thing keeping Ryuji alive right now?

Bruce: That seems to be the case.

Ryuji: (shocked) You mean I could be stuck like this forever!?

Constantine: Now, now. There’s no need to be a wet blanket... Heh! See what I did there?

Ryuji: YOU THINK THIS IS AN EFFIN’ JOKE!?

>Ryuji shoots a blast of water from his forearm at Constantine.

Hey! I just cleaned that spot!

Ryuji, stop it!

>Just like that, Ryuji stops shooting water.

Ryuji: I’m... I’m sorry. I just lost it there... More than usual. I’m... I’m just scared. I can’t live like this. I have a life. I have school. I finally became an idol. To become Overflow... I think I lost all of it.

Paradox: I under stand your feelings, Ryuji Sakamoto... But I don’t think that’s why you lost control.

Ren: What do you mean?

Constantine: We’ll tell you... Upstairs. Right now... My fellow Brits are almost here.

Boss: What do you mean?

Toshi: Oh right, I almost forgot why I’m here. You remember Michael Booth and his family?

Boss: Yes...

And I should pat myself on the back for being able to hide this place from them. It would have caused a scene.

Toshi: Well... They found it.

Wait. You mean... They’re coming here?

Toshi: That’s right. Michael wants to study curry’s history in Japan. And who better to help than the guy who serves the best in Yongen-Jaya?

Boss: That’s only because Wakaba helped with her formula.

Toshi: Either way, they’re coming now.

Boss: (groans) Fine. All of you better go upstairs. I need to clean this mess first.

Constantine: No, please... Allow me.

>Constantine snaps his fingers and everything in the cafe is cleaned up and dry.

Constantine: I’ll send you my bill later... Here they come.

>We quickly go up the stairs to my room. I stop for a bit to see who Toshi was talking about... They come in through the door.

Here we are. Cafe Leblanc.

I’m not sure why a cafe in Japan would have a French name.

They probably chose it to make it sound a little more fancy.

It like it.

Boss: Well...

Thanks for that.

(whisper) Good luck, Sojiro.

>Upstairs in my room, we were examining Ryuji to find a way to change him back into a human.

Futaba: So the big question is: How do we undo something made with science and sorcery?

Diego: Joker, got any ideas?

Ren: I’ll need to think about that. Right now, Professor Paradox, what do you mean by Ryuji losing control?

Paradox: Inside all versions of the Omnitrix, including the Ultimatrix, lies a pocket dimension where the DNA of the aliens it scans have lives of their own. That includes consciousness. Overflow is no different. But somehow, his DNA was copied and was used to alter your friend’s.

Ryuji: How did that happen?

Paradox: I am afraid that is beyond even my vision. But according to Azmuth, this “crude” copy of the Omnitrix’s DNA alteration is without a time limit. And without a time limit to change you back into your human form... The consciousness of that alien would take over entirely.

Ryuji: You mean, if I don’t change back soon...

Ryuji could lose his own consciousness, leaving only Overflow’s.

Paradox: It gets even worse. The minds of the scanned aliens are incomplete. Right now, Ryuji’s mind is keeping Overflow’s mind in check, but not for long. Once his mind is gone, all that will be left is a Cascan without a proper mind to guide him and, instead, only instincts and impulses.

Ryuji: And what’s going to happen to me? To my mind?

Constantine: My guess is... It would go to that Sea of Souls you learned about in the Velvet Room.

Ryuji: Yeah, Ren told me. He said that’s where all souls come from... But it’s also where they go after the person who has it dies... You mean I could die!?

Ann: Ryuji, shush! Boss’s guests are still here.

Ryuji: Sorry.

Constantine: Don’t worry there. That’s why we’re here.

Bruce: I’m sure we’ll find a way. After all... What is lost, can never truly be gone.

>We don’t know what that means.

Paradox: There is still hope. That is what he said. But I suggest we find it as quickly as we can.

Diego: How come?

Paradox: ... Your friend and Overflow are not the only ones effected.

>I was starting to get worried.

Ren: What do you mean?

>Professor Paradox was silent for a moment.

Paradox: I think it is time for that idea Diego asked for. Ask yourself this, you may know who might help in the magic department... But what about science?

Ren: Well, I know a lot of people. But I guess the only person who can help with Ryuji would have to be...

>I froze. The only scientist who can help Ryuji would be... The one who is connected to him.

HARRY!?

Futaba: Hold on, I’ll see if I can contact him.

Hurry, Futaba chan!

>She opens her computer and access the video chat. After a few second, it’s answered.

Hello? Futaba?

Futaba: Peter, how’s Harry? Is he okay?

Peter: How did you... Did Gwen tell you?

Ren: No, we knew.

Peter: How?

Ryuji: Hey, Pete. Long time, no see.

Peter: (shocked) Ryuji!? What happened to you?

Akechi: That’s how we know. Now tell me... Did Harry fall into a coma?

Peter: ... He did at first. But woke up in the hospital. But he was very weak. Well, not so weak that he can’t do anything, thank goodness. He can still use his spider powers and stuff.

Harry’s voice: Pete, is that Akechi and Ryuji and the others?

Peter: Yeah, it’s them.

Hi, guys. Hey, Ryuji, I see the Overflow look was no joke.

Ryuji: You... You knew about it?

Harry: I thought it was a dream at first. But after seeing you now...

Ryuji: Wait. Did you say dream?

Harry: Yes. It was just after I collapsed.. Did you have it, too?

Ryuji: Yes. What happened?

Harry: Well, in the dream, I was hovering over the ocean on a stormy night with a red skull painted on my face.

Ryuji: With Tokyo right behind you?

Harry: Yes.

Ryuji: And an island in front of you?

Harry: Griffin Rock.

Ryuji: What?

Harry: That’s the name of the island. Griffin Rock, Maine.

Wait. Griffin Rock?

Makoto: That’s where Ryuji’s father was.

Ryuji: (angry) I knew! He has to be the one behind all this. I just know it.

Akechi: That’s one possibility. We still have no concrete evidence Alexander Paine is the one responsible. Besides, this seems more like something Raymond Warren would do. But I think this might be too much even for him.

Peter: He’s right. I don’t think even Gwen’s uncle would go as far as trying to duplicate alien technology. At least that’s what I think.

Makoto: So that’s two suspects. But I think the real question is... Why?

Yusuke: That’s true. Most of our enemies either had a change of heart by us or is in prison.

Harry: And my dad- Norman Osborn, made it clear that he’s given up.

Akechi: Still, we shouldn’t rule him out as a suspect.

Constantine: Actually we might. Ryuji’s transformation is the work of science and sorcery. And neither Osborn or Jackal like magic. And I’m pretty sure the same is for Paine.

Ryuji: I dunno, I wouldn’t put it past him. The guy lives for complete and utter chaos.

Constantine: Well, only one way to find out.

>Constantine takes out a piece of chalk and traces a circle with it.

Constantine: Ryuji kun, if you will.

Mrs. Sakamoto: This isn’t going to hurt him, is it?

Constantine: It’s just a detection spell, ma’am. We’re going to find out how it was done.

Ryuji: Whatever gets the job done.

>Ryuji goes into the circle.

Constantine: Here goes. Ecived edam ot kool dna krow ekil eht lanigiro ecived, woh od uoy krow? Erehw od uoy emoc morf? Ohw edam uoy?

>The circle glows and light comes from it and surrounds Ryuji. The Omnitrix symbol glows and light particles glow out of it. Then, they gather together and form something. I take what it formed... I was a bit surprised.

This is... That new card.

Makoto: That must have what caused it.

Ryuji: The Dream FES System?

Futaba: How is that possible? No one knows how the Dream FES System works. No one even knows where it came from. Not even the head of D-Four Productions or the heads of the Brands who make the Dorika.

Constantine: Either way, they some how managed to use it to implant the Omnitrix containing Overflow’s DNA on Ryuji’s chest. And they used the concert to do so.

Makoto: But we still don’t know who did it, why they did it, and how to undo it.

Peter: Guess magic is not as helpful as science.

Constantine: (not happy) You didn’t have to rub it in, mate?

Katherine: Don’t you have any ideas? You’re a time traveler.

Paradox: I’m afraid it is not that simple. I cannot tell you without causing great harm to the timeline.... However, I do have some advice.

Ren: What’s that?

Paradox: ... Look out the window.

>We were puzzled... But I decided to look anyway. Me and Futaba look out.

?????: Shit! They can see us?

?????: Let’s beat it!

>The two young men on the roof across from us quickly duck away.

I know those two! Back during the LilyMu heist.

Ren: Jared and Jesse Deucey. I still don’t know about them. They some how have the power to restore a target’s Palace.

Futaba: But apparently not forever. I checked with Lily dozens of time and she’s back to the way we made her.

Diego: But why were they here?

Bruce: ... Sometimes the culprit returns to the scene of the crime.

Mrs. Sakamoto: You mean they were the ones responsible for what happened to Ryu kun?

Futaba: I doubt it. I looked these guys up. Even together, they barely have half a brain...

But I think they might know some things.

Ryuji: So we just gotta follow ‘em, right? Let’s do it?

Are you sure? Someone could see you.

Futaba: Actually, how did you get Ryuji over here? Even if you used the van, someone could have seen him.

Katherine: We just told everyone that he was in cosplay. Thankfully, they believed it.

Ryuji: But I can’t just sit up here. I may not know much about my new body, but I can still run... I’m still a Phantom Thief.

Alright. You’re still you, brother.

Ryuji: Thanks... Aibo (Partner)... Yosuke Hanamura, eat your heart out.

Futaba: Okay. But we still need to get him downstairs. I think the lovely British couple and their bespectacled son might buy the whole cosplay story, but the younger kid? ... I don’t think so.

Katherine: I could design something. But it may take time.

Ann: ... Constantine san?

Constantine: What can I do for you, fair lady?

Can you cast a Glamour?

Constantine: (smiling) I’ll see what I can do. To ensure a future preserved, mask our friend, see justice served.

>In a swirl of light, Ryuji was engulfed. Then, as fast as it came, it was gone.

Did... Did it work?

Peter: I don’t know. You still look like Overflow.

Constantine: Because your camera is like a mirror. It will show the truth behind the illusion. For something more powerful, you’ll need to speak to someone a little more experienced than me. Like Zatanna or Dr. Fate or even that Dr. Strange in New York.

Peter: Fine. I’ll see what he can do. See you guys soon.

Harry: We’ll be rooting for you.

>With that, they hang up.

Futaba: It’s a good thing no all reflected services reveal what Ryuji looks like. I’m wearing glasses and I’m still seeing the illusion.

Katherine: Same here.

Ren: Me, too. So i guess we won’t have to worry about Asger Booth.

Constantine: Also, remember that this is an illusion. Your actual size will still let itself known such as knocking things down and getting stuck. Also, because my Glamour spells are not that powerful, it won’t last. This should last for I should say about 1 hour.

>I suddenly notice Ann speaking to herself.

(whisper) Stronger Glamour spells have longer effects.

Ren: What was that?

It’s nothing. Let’s go.

Katherine: I’ll be heading home. There’s a wedding dress waiting to be finished. For a wedding in America.

Bruce: And I’ll go speak to Chihiya. Since Professor Paradox won’t tell us what may happen in the future, we have another reliable source.

Paradox: True. Better you learn from a true psychic than me. Especially since she know that, and I quote, “The future is not absolute.”

Bruce: Thank you. But we might still need your help.

Paradox: Very well. I shall see what I can do.

>With that, he vanishes.

>We managed to get past the Booths and out the front door (which was not easy since Constantine was right about Ryuji still getting stuck). We got on the van, except for Bruce and Kathrine. Bruce was going to Shinjuku to speak with Chihiya and Katherine was going home to work. Constantine used a spell to help us track the twins.

Constantine: It looks like they’re headed for Shibuya. Right, shall we?

>With that, we drive off.

>One of the best things about Big Bang Burger these days... is how empty it has become since the Okumura heist. So people can pretty much do whatever they want without getting much trouble with the staff... Just perfect for a wanted criminal who came back from the dead to just sit and relax. Typing away on his computer and maybe even enjoying lunch... But that all ends when Jared and Jesse burst in.

Hey, you!

(sighs) What is it now?

Jesse: We went to check on those guys like you told us to. I thought we were just gonna scared them, not turn one of them into a monster!

Yeah, this is not what we signed on for!

Jin: Tch! That’s because you have the IQ of a chicken. Of course you would think this was to be some simple prank... But it’s way more than that.

Jesse: Okay, we get it! We may not be Albert... Edison, but even we know our limits.

Jin: Oh please, you don’t even know the meaning of the word limit.

Jesse: (not getting angry) Listen here you little shit, we didn’t drop out of school to hurt people. We came because we thought we were the same.

Jared: But I guess having Personas isn’t enough.

Jin: True... My head isn’t hallow.

>For the Deucey Twins, it was the last straw. Jared, despite being the youngest here, grabs Jin by the shirt and lifts him up.

Jin: What are you going to do? Kill me? I’m already dead.

Jared: No... We’re going to settle this... Persona Style.

Jin: ... Very well.

>Station Square. We just arrived here. Unfortunately, due to traffic, an hour had almost passed and the Glamour spell Constantine used is about to wear off.

Ryuji: Aw man, the spell’s gonna wear off. Can’t you make it last longer?

Constantine: Sorry, mate, my hands are full.

Futaba: Wait... Look.

>We look out and was saw, the twins and someone headed for the subway.

There they are!

!

Makoto: What is it, Futaba?

Futaba: I know that guy who’s with them...

Isn’t he suppose to be dead?

>The Underground.

Jin: Are you sure you want to do this? I’ve had my Persona for a long time. You’ve only had your Personas for two years.

Jared: True... But we took the time to practice.

Jin: Very well... Open it.

>Jared takes out his phone... And opens the Metaverse Navigator.

>Five... Four... Three... 2... 1... Glamour spell: Over.

Nav: Beginning navigation.

>A red wave passes over them. When it was over...

Jin: Prepare yourself!

>Jin takes something out.

Jesse: Right! Slice!

Jared: And dice!

>The twins take out their own Evokes.

Jin: Persona!

Jared and Jesse: Persona!

>In a large burst, they summon their Personas. The twins’ Personas look a bit identical. Both wore green and white outfit-like armor with green helmets. They also had swords and green capes. The capes also have white letters on them. On Jared’s had “DUM” and Jesse’s had “DEE”.

(Insert song: Every Second Matters from OK K.O.!)

Tutorial

Even though they are two people, Jared and Jesse work together as one.

When not using their Personas, Jared is good with Melee attacks (using a claymore) and Jesse does Ranged attack (using a triple barreled pistol).

Jared’s and Jesse’s Personas, Tweedledum & Tweedledee, also act as one. Tweedledum uses Physical and Support Skills while Tweedledee uses Wind and Healing Skills. They are weak to Psychokinesis and Curse.

Jin: You’re still much too new at this. Moros, deal with them.

>Moros uses Stagnant Air. Tweedledum uses Charge. Moros uses Taunt. Jared and Jesse are enraged. Jared attacks with blind Rage and his claymore. However, Jin dodges it. Moros uses Snap. Jesse attack with his pistol. It was a critical hit. Jesse shoots his pistol again. Jin gets back up and Moros uses Agidyne. Jared attacks again. Moros uses Bufudyne. The twins became Frozen. Although the Rage wore off, they were still under the Freeze effect. Jin throws a hand grenade. It shatters the twins. Tweedledee uses Diarama. Moros uses Megido. The twins dodge it. Tweedledum use Charge again. Moros uses Eigaon. It knocks both twins down. Jin throws another grenade. They get back up again and Tweedledum uses Assault Dive. It was a critical hit. Tweedledum uses Assault Dive again. Jin gets back up and Moros uses Brain Jack. Luckily, it missed. Tweedledee uses Garudyne. Moros uses Ziodyne. The twins get Shocked. They couldn’t move. Jin runs in and attack with his briefcase. However, he gets Shocked. Jared and Jesse are now free and Tweedledee uses Garudyne again. It was a technical hit due to the Shock. Jin still couldn’t move. Jesse shoots his gun. Another technical hit. Jin recovers and Moros uses Giant Slice. Tweedledee uses Diarama. Moros uses Agidyne. It Burns the twins. Tweedledum uses Tempest Slash. The Burn eats away at their health. Moros uses Garudyne. It was a technical hit due to the Burn, despite that they can resist Wind attacks. Tweedledum uses Charge. The burn eats away their health again. Moros uses Garudyne again. Luckily, they dodge it. Tweedledum uses Brave Blade. It was a critical hit. Tweedledum uses Brave Blade again. Now Jin was at his lowest health. Though, the Burn still eats away at their own health.

Jin: I see... You have been training.

Jared: Are you gonna quit now?

Jesse: And change that guy back?

Jin: Sorry, but what I just did to him... Is completely new to me... And your training was in vain.

>Jin gets back up and Moros uses Mamudo. It causes the twins’ health to drop to 1.

Jared: This could be bad. Jesse?

Jesse: No good. I already used up most of my energy with those Wind spells. I can’t heal and I forgot to get items before coming here.

Jared: Well, it was fun while it lasted.

Jesse: It’s been nice knowing ya, little brother.

Jared: Same here, big brother.

>The two of them held each other in defense. Jin uses Soma on himself. Jared and Jesse still defended themselves.

Jin: And now, to end this.

>Moros uses Mamudo...

Jared and Jesse: Mother.

?????: Persona!

>The new Persona takes the hit for the twins.

Jared and Jesse: Huh!?

Jin: Tch! I knew you would get here sooner or later.

>We emerge from the shadow to show ourselves.

Sorry for the wait. Here.

>I use Soma on the twins.

Jared: Thank?

Joker: You better be. That was my last Soma and I don’t know when my next shipment will come in.

Jesse: But why? We helped that jerk turn your friend into an alien.

After seeing you fight Jin Shirato to have him change Skull back, we can see that neither of necessarily bad.

Just misguided.

Skull: (back in his Overflow form) Hey, you! You did this to me! You better change me back right now!

Jin: I already said I don’t know how. I used this place to do it.

I’m still reeling how Mementos is back.

Jin: Heh! Guess you Phantom Thieves aren’t as great as you think after all. There’s always going to be that one group of people who still wish to be ruled over. Though I doubt Yaldabaoth will come back just like that, but it was enough to bring Mementos back.

Constantine: He’s got a point, love.

Either way, we won’t let you get away with this.

You hurt our friend, now you have to pay.

Though, I wish I knew how you used Mementos to change Skull into Overflow or even who we are.

Jin: Very well. They call it the Dream Festival System for a reason... It was created from people’s dreams.

You mean... That’s where it came from? People’s dreams.

Jin: Yes. The dreams of the audience and the idols. I won’t bother you how it’s done... But I suppose you could ask... The Velvet Room. But I can tell you this. Dreams are the same as human thoughts and thought are part of people’s cognition. So I used the cognitive world to create a trap Dorika meant to mutate whoever took a hold of it. And Ryuji Sakamoto was the best target. As for how I determined who your real identities are... Putting strikethroughs is not exactly going to make you anonymous.

But you have to admit, it’s been working for us so far.

Jin: Umm, why do have four ears? When did you add cat ears.

Mona: Thought I’d make a little more like me.

Jin: (sarcastic) Right.

Focus here! We still can’t let this guys just do what he wants.

Jin: Heh! I like to see you try.

So be it then.

Then it’s time to work! Persona!

>Necronomicon scans Jin and Moros.

Oracle: I’m not getting any weaknesses. But avoid using Fire, Bless, or Curse Skills.

Fox: If he uses Fire Skills a lot, perhaps Ice might help. Persona!

Skull: I’m goin’ in, too. He ruined my life. It’s only fair. Persona!

Oracle: Hold up, Skull. I’m detecting something off. It looks like your new form might help...

But be careful when you use Electricity or if he uses it.

Skull: (a bit worried) I see. (regains confidence) But don’t worry. We’ll be finished with this guy before you know it.

Jesse: We wanna fight, too.

Joker: I don’t see why not. It looks like you’re ready for Round 2.

Jared: Yup! Tweedledum and Tweedledee are just raring to go.

Joker: Tweedledum and Tweedledee? That’s what your Personas are called?

>This got me thinking...

Actually, I think I know just the Persona that can help.

>I change Personas.

Joker: PERSONA!

Jesse: That’s going to help us? That scrawny thing?

Joker: Alice may not look much, but she’s very powerful. You’ll see.

Jesse: (still not sure) Okay.

Jin: Come at me.

(Insert song: Unavoidable Battle)

Tutorial

Skull’s battle functions are different in his Overflow form.

As Overflow, Skull’s Ranged attacks have been altered. He no longer can use a shotgun. However, in its place, he can use a water gun. When he uses water gun on an enemy who is weak to Ice, it will be treated as an Ice attack. It can even be effective against Fire and Electric based enemies with a chance of a critical hit. But be cautious. If he uses it on an Electric based enemy, there’s a chance that he could get Shocked. Like all guns, Skull’s water gun runs out of ammo. However, each bullet is replaced by a gallon of water with a gauge on it. Each time the water gun is used, the gauge drops. When the gauge runs out, Skull will move on to the next gallon. Right now, Skull has 5 gallons of water. He will receive more as he levels up.

As Overflow, be careful. Whenever Skull attacks with his Persona’s Electric Skills, there’s a chance it will recoil and hit him. Don’t worry, he won’t be Shocked.

As Overflow, Skull’s resistance to Electric attack is no longer available. He won’t be weak to it (he’ll still be weak to Wind), but the chances of him being Shocked has increased. However, if Skull uses his Ultimate Persona, Seiten Taisei, his Electric Block will still be in effect.

>Alice uses Concentrate. Goemon uses Masukukaja. Captain Kidd uses Matarukaja. Tweedledum uses Marakukaja. Moros uses Triple Down. Luckily, our increased agility allowed us all to dodge it. Alice uses Megidolaon. Goemon uses Raising Slash. Captain Kidd uses Charge. Tweedledum also uses Charge.

Jin: You won’t win this time... There’s no cure for stupidity.

>Moros uses Ziodyne on Skull. Just like the tutorial predicted, Skull was Shocked. Luckily, I used Non-Static Gum and I have plenty to spare.

Oracle: We’ll see about that. Let the duel of the hackers begin!

>Goemon uses Bufudyne. It was enough to Freeze him. Captain Kidd uses Assault Dive. It shatters him. Tweedledum uses Myriad Slashes. Moros uses Agidyne on Fox. It knocks him down. Moros uses Garudyne on Skull. It knocks him down. Jin then tries to attack me with his briefcase. Luckily, I dodged it. Alice uses Concentrate. Fox gets back up and Goemon uses Bufudyne. Skull gets back up and Captain Kidd uses Ziodyne. It recoils. Tweedledee uses Garudyne. Moros uses Maragion. It knocks Fox down and Burns me. Jin throws a grenade at the twins. Alice uses Megidolaon. The Burn eats away at my health. Fox gets back up and uses a Coolifier Pad to cure me of the Burn. Skull uses his water gun. It was a critical hit.

Skull: All right! Time for some pain!

>After the attack, Jin was still up, but now a little more weaker.

Oracle: Support’s on the way!

>Necronomicon uses Mediarama. Tweedledum uses Assault Dive. Moros uses Maziodyne. Skull was Shocked. I use Non-Static Gum on him. Goemon uses Masukukaja. Captain Kidd uses Matarukaja. Tweedledum uses Marakukaja.

Jin: Playtime is over, kids. It’s time for the real deal!

>Moros uses Mahama.

Oracle: Look out!

>Necronomicon uses Final Guard.

Joker: Thanks, Oracle. Damn! If only Curse attacks worked on this guy, I could use Alice’s full power.

Skull: I could do it. But this time may not work.

Jared: Leave that to us.

Jesse: Just buy us some time.

Joker: Right. We’ll leave it to you.

>I defend myself. Fox uses Master Coffee on me. Skull also defends himself.

Jared: Here goes!

>Tweedledum uses Rebellion on Skull.

Jin: There is nothing you can do now. Quit wasting my time.

>Moros uses Agidyne Fox. It knocks him down. Moros then uses Ziodyne on Skull. Luckily, he dodged it. Alice uses Concentrate. Fox gets back up and Goemon uses Deadly Fury.

Skull: All right! Here we go!

>Skull uses his water gun. It was a critical hit.

Skull: Okay, Joker, the rest is up to you!

Baton Pass!

Joker: I won’t disappoint. Now raise, Alice!

DISCLAIMER 2: This may not actually work in game on a Curse resistant enemy.

>Jin was finally defeated.

Jin: Guess you... Really are as smart as you look.

Hells yeah!

Crow: But we just want to know one thing...

Why? Why did you do this to Ryuji?

Jin: I could tell you... But that would spoil the surprise.

Are you fucking series!?

Jin: Tch! Whatever. You’re going to find out soon enough... But if you really want to know... Try asking the Kirijo bitch.

>Jin quickly gets back up.

Queen: Stop him!

Jin: We’ll meet again soon.

>We try to grab him, but Jin uses a Smokescreen and vanishes.

Skull: Dammit! He got away!

Don’t worry. We’ll get him soon.

Jared and Jesse: We’re so sorry about this.

Oracle: Don’t worry. Like I said, you just went down the wrong road...

But you still have a lot of explaining to do.

Jesse: Believe us, we do.

Noir: But not here. We better go.

>With that, we leave Mementos.

>The maid cafe in Akihabara. We came here so Jared and Jesse can tell us everything.

Jared: Won’t people think it weird to see an alien here?

Futaba: I’m sure they’ll just think he’s in cosplay like they did last time.

Clara: (coming up to us) Welcome home, master. Say, that’s some nice cosplay you have on. You look just like Overflow.

Ryuji: Uh, thanks.

Clara: So what can I get you, this splendid evening?

Ren: We’ll have some Sincere Omelettes and Relaxing Coffee, please.

Akechi: Make my omelette Love★Pancakes.

Jesse: And make mine and my brother’s coffee Oo-hot Tea.

Ryuji: I’ll just have some water.

Clara: Coming right up.

>She leaves to get our order.

Jesse: I guess we better start explainin’.

Jared What would you like to know?

Ren: Well for starters, how do you guys have Personas?

Jesse: Me and Jared were candidates for some kinda test here in Japan... Mostly someplace called... Tatsumi Pot Island.

You mean Tatsumi Port Island.

Jesse: Right. Sorry, I’m not good with Japanese.

Makoto: I think I know which test you’re talking about. Mitsuru san told Sis and she told me.

Akechi: She told me, too. She said the the Kirijo Group were looking for people have the potential to wield a Persona. Especially orphan children.

Haru: You mean the two of you are orphans?

Jesse: We might as well be.

Jared: Our mom died when we were very young. And our dad’s in prison.

Futaba: You mean Ace Deucey? I can see that.

Makoto: What happened when the Kirijo Group took you in?

Jared: Nothing, really. We never actually went to Japan.

Makoto: How come?

Jesse: Headmaster Spritle. He took us in. He seemed happy enough with it since he never married. He’s been a bit like a father to us. We even became friends with his nephew, X. But after awhile, we became a bit of a handful and when we were old enough, we started living on our own. But Spritle let us stay at Racer Academy as students.

Jared: But then, Jin showed up. He said he hacked into the Kirijo Group and found us. He took us to that Mementos place. Not the one here, the one at the school.

Ann: Racer Academy has a Mementos? I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. That place is like a town in itself. So of course there are a lot of people with distorted hearts there.

Makoto: What happened there?

Jesse: He gave us our Evokers and told us to shoot ourselves. We were scared at first, but we did it. And that’s how we got our Personas.

Makoto: Does your Personas have anything to do with Lily’s Palace coming back and disappearing again?

Jared: It’s our Personas’ unique ability. We can rebuild a person’s Palace. But it only works on a Palace once and not forever. After we leave the Palace, it goes back to being gone, and this time, for good.

Makoto: Is that how Mementos in our city came back?

Jesse: Yeah. But it’s way different than a normal Palace. After we leave, it’s still there.

Diego: Mementos is the Palace of the general public. If there are enough people with warped desires, that’s enough to solidify the foundation of it.

Yusuke: So we may have to travel down the the deepest depths to remove it again.

Diego: Who knows.

>Diego reaches into his jacket and pulls something out.

You still have that?

You’re not seriously going to drink out of it, are you?

Constantine: She’s right, bloke. If that’s anything like the real Holy Grail, you know what will happen if you drink out of it.

Diego: Of course I won’t drink from it.

Ryuji: I don’t understand. What’s this Holy Grail thing again?

Constantine: According to Etri- Jason Blood, the Holy Grail was used by Jesus Christ in the Last Supper. When he drank from it, some of his essence merged with the cup, granting it great power. If you were to drink from it, you would gain immortality... Maybe even bring someone back to life. That’s why Arty’s Knights went looking for it.

Ryuji: Arty’s Knight?

Diego: You mean King Arthur and his Knight of the Round Table. I know that. They went on a quest to find it so Arthur can make himself immortal and not lose to his son and nephew, Mordred.

Constantine: (a bit impressed) I see. You know the story, too.

Diego: My real name, Morgana, comes from Morgan le Fay. She was Arthur’s half-sister. Even though she was consider the villain, she was also a great trickster who seduced Arthur which lead to the birth of Mordred.

Constantine: Indeed.

Haru: What happened to the Holy Grail after that?

Constantine: Who knows. Some say it was found and lost by some archaeologist named after a state... But they watch too many movies. Me? I don’t really care... What use do I have for immortality?

Diego: (putting the Grail away) I guess that’s true.

Clara: (coming up) Thank you for waiting! Here are your omelettes, pancakes, and... The incredibly bitter vegetable juice.

Ren: We didn’t order vegetable juice. Please remake it.

Clara: (blushing) Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll get your real order.

Constantine: No need.

>Constantine waves his hand and the vegetable juice changes into the drinks we ordered.

Clara: (surprised) Oh my... Is there... Anything else you’d like?

Constantine: (acting smug) How ‘bout... The time you get off?

Clara: (blushing again) Wow. I guess it’s true about what they say about you British men: You’re real charmers.

>She leaves... A little wobbly.

And here I thought Ren was the ladies’ man.

You’re still not gonna get over Valentine’s, are you?

Jared: What happened?

The girls: Don’t ask.

Ryuji: Back on subject. What about me? How do we change me back to myself?

Futaba: Me and Akechi spoke with Harry and Peter on the way here. If Griffin Rock was in your dream, then it must be the key to changing you back. If we go there, we might find our answer. And we better find it soon.

Akechi: She’s right. I told them about the time I fell into a coma. It was around the same time Peter bonded with the V-252. He told me he bonded with it a second time and I passed out at the same time. He told me he bonded with it again a third time to stop a villain called Thanos. That was while we were doing Dancing in Starlight. But I didn’t go into a coma that time. I just felt weak.

Diego: And the same thing’s happening with Harry because Ryuji became Overflow. But instead of going into a coma, Harry simply became weak. How could that be?

???????: I can answer that.

>We quickly turn to see Lavenza with Professor Paradox.

Ren: What do you mean?

When Peter Parker fused with the Symbiote known as Venom, you didn’t form a connection with him. But then you came to New York and formed one with him and Harry Lyman. It was that bond that shielded Goro Akechi when Peter Parker fused with the Symbiote a third time.

Ren: So my bond with Peter... Saved Akechi?

Lavenza: That is the case. However, it would only be a temporary protection. Akechi would remain awake yet weak as long as Peter’s consciousness remained intact and active. However, if it were to be locked away, Akechi would fall into a coma. But if Peter Parker’s consciousness was completely gone and sent to the Sea of Souls leaving only the Symbiote’s...

I would have gone with it.

Ryuji: (worried) You mean, if I don’t change back soon, Harry could fall into a coma? And I my consciousness goes... He’ll die!?

We won’t let that happen, brother, I promise.

Ryuji: ... Thanks.

>Ryuji takes a scoop of his omelette. But he stops.

Ryuji: I just remembered... I don’t have a mouth. How am I suppose to eat?

Ann: Yeah, what does Overflow’s kind eat? I don’t think omelettes.

Paradox: Cascans mostly eat algae and plankton.

Ryuji: For real!? Gross!

Paradox: Of course, their most favorite delicacy are clams. Probably lucky that you are going to a place where you will most likely find New England Clam Chowder.

Ryuji: That’s something I guess.

Constantine: Right. Now I believe we’re in need of that team Futaba and Diego were talking about.

Ren: I thought it out. I know Harry would be a good choice since he and Ryuji are connected. But I'm afraid he might be too weak to come with us. But we’ll still contact him on the computer.

Akechi: And Peter will be busy helping his aunt with F.E.A.S.T.

Futaba: Luck for you guys, I’ve compiled a list of people who might help in the science department. You might want to choose four. I didn’t add Paradox since he clearly has other things to deal with.

Paradox: Now that’s a little harsh. But yes, I do not think it would be wise for me to stick around for too long. And that goes double for Azmuth. But I’ll leave the decisions in your capable hands, Ren Amamiya.

I’ll see what I can do.

>I look at the list. I better choose wisely.

>>Miles Morales >Gwen Stacy >Anya Corazon >Alistaire Smythe >>Curt Connors >Tony Stark >Max Modell >>Ryan Choi >>Conor

Diego: I had a feeling you would choose Miles. He’s just as smart as Peter and the others at Horizon.

Ryuji: Same for Dr. Connors. He was the best teacher I had at Oz Academy.

Constantine: Ryan Choi? I know a Ryan Choi. But guess this is a much different Ryan Choi.

Futaba: Pretty much.

Constantine: ... Well, as long as the Deathstroke of that world hasn’t killed him yet, I’ll see what I can do.

Jesse: And Conor? Our Conor?

Futaba: Well, from what I’ve learned, he’s a really great mechanic. That’s a bit like a scientist.

Besides, he might explode with happiness over something like this.

Jesse: That seem like it.

Jared: His pen pal leaves just around here. We’ll see if he can contact him since, well, we’re... Not ready to face Headmaster Spritle.

Ren: Then, why not come come with us? If we work together, we’ll be able to undo the damage Jin did.

Jared: You’d... You’d really do that for us?

Why not? We could always use more phantom thieves on our side.

Jesse: Us? Phantom thieves? That... That would be kinda a good. We only joined up with Jin because we thought it would be a good time. But I guess we got more than we bargained for.

Jared: We won’t let you down.

>We all agreed. Looks like the Phantom Thieves just got two more members.

Futaba: That deals with Team Science. Now for Team Sorcery.

Constatnine: No need to add me to that list. I’m already on this.

>I take another look at the list. Who should I choose to help with the magic part of our problem?

>>Zatanna >>Dr. Strange >Dr. Fate >>Robin Sena >Tanpopo Kuraishi >Yukiko Amagi >>Headmistress Faragonda >Headmistress Griffin >Headmaster Saladin

Constantine: Good choice, mate. Then again, you’re thinking of another Zatanna. Unfortunately, she has her gloves tied. You’ll have to settle for the one I know.

Diego: I suppose Dr. Strange will work,too. We do kind of owe him for trying to rob him.

Ann: Robin Sena? That’s that witch we met at the witch’s diner. I guess she could help. We owe her for the Kappa Tea. And Headmistress Faragonda is a good choice, too. Since Summer has begun, she has some time now. (whisper) And we can continue.

>I still wonder why Ann is suddenly interested in magic.

Paradox: Looks like this team is coming together quite nicely. Then, I’ll leave you to it.

Lavenza: And remember, I will be the in the Velvet Room to assist you.

Paradox: And one more thing. I picked up this for you.

Paradox: This ID Mask should be much more long lasting than a Glamour spell. But you may wish to avoid lightning flashes.

>Ryuji takes the mask and puts it on. He changes to human form.

Ryuji: Thanks. But I still wish I can be human again.

Paradox: And you will.

>With that, Paradox and Lavenza leave.

>Now we have our team. Let us hope we will succeed.

>On the coast of Maine, just a little ways from Griffin Rock, is what is known as the Rescue Bot Training Center. Inside, a young Autobot had just finished his laps for the day. Suddenly, another Autobot came in.

Hey, Blurr, another package came for you.

All right! About time. They really need to speed up their delivery.

Salvage: Maybe because they don’t know where you live and you’re using Kade’s credit card, so asking for a speedy delivery cost too much and you know how cheap Kade can be.

>Blurr takes his package.

Salvage: Is it another one of those... I know it’s normal to be a fan, but... To have dreams of them.

Blurr: I know it’s odd since Autobots don’t normally dream... But there it is... Just promise no one else will know. Quickshadow already knows, but she’s not interested in telling anyone. But the others, especially Heatwave...

Salvage: I promise that this will be our secret. Just try to keep it in moderation.

Blurr: Will do.

>Blurr takes his package to a secret park of the Training Center. He opens it.

Blurr: Finally, my collection is complete.

>Blurr places the Skull figurine with the other Phantom Thieves figurines and the rest of the merchandise.

Blurr: Oh Primus, I wish I could meet these guys... Especially Skull.

>The story continues. Wish us luck.

#phantom thieves cam

[stcrytcllerxinspo]

WHAT HURTS THE MOST | SELF PARA

It’s hard to deal with the pain of losin’ you everywhere I go But I’m doing it It’s hard to force that smile when I see our old friends and I’m alone Still harder gettin’ up, gettin’ dressed, livin’ with this regret But I know if I could do it over I would trade, give away all the words that I saved in my heart That I left unspoken

TRIGGER WARNINGS: Self-harm, suicidal thoughts, mental illness

Devon had thought anything of it at the time, but it was a really good thing that his mum had taken Alyssa for the day. Because his mental state had reached a major low. His mind had spiraled so far downhill over the past year that he wasn’t sure of anything anymore. He had spent the past twelve months since Jade’s death torn between normal grief and absolute hopelessness. The worst part? He hadn’t told a single person about just how bad it had gotten. That meant that he was fighting a battle entirely on his own and he was getting closer and closer to giving up.

Today just might be that day.

It was two in the afternoon and he hadn’t eaten. He had slept until 12:45, sent Alyssa out with his mum at 12:56, and then he had immediately retreated to the basement-turned-weight-room. He spent the next hour hitting the punching bag with every ounce of energy he had left, until finally, he barely had any strength at all.

He took a deep breath as he sat on the floor, combing his fingers through his sweat-soaked hair. He could feel his mind deteriorating, slowly eating him alive. He was dying, he was sure of it. And maybe, just maybe, he no longer cared. It was an awful thought, especially now that Alyssa was in the picture, but his mind was so full of negativity, living him unable to think about anything except how badly he wanted to wake up from this nightmare.

He sat there for about twenty minutes before stumbling to his feet, shaking as he went back upstairs. Everything was a blur as he found himself opening the door to Jade’s art studio. He was suddenly surrounded by all the projects that his beloved wife would never get to finish. Just another reminder that she was dead and she wasn’t coming back.

There had been a reason he kept the door shut and refused to let anyone inside the room. Part of him didn’t want anyone touching Jade’s stuff, as if he was convinced that she would walk through that door, sit at her easel, and continue the work that she had started. Another part of his reasoning was the fact that it had become his private getaway and he didn’t want anyone walking in on him crying as he surrounded himself with Jade’s undeniable talent, creativity, and passion. How could such a bright light burn out so soon? At just nineteen years old? And Jade didn’t just die. She was murdered.

He approached Jade’s latest piece, staring mindlessly at the unfinished painting. It was going to be of them together, on their wedding day. God, she was so talented. Why? Why did she have to die? Why couldn’t she have stayed at home while he went to the store by himself? At least Alyssa wouldn’t have had to grow up without a mother. Jade’s parents wouldn’t have lost their daughter. Maddie wouldn’t have lost her best friend.

Turning away from the unfinished painting, he went to sit at the drawing table, reaching for his phone that he had left there the night before. He sniffled, unlocking the device and pulling up his saved videos. The first one he opened was of him and Jade during one of their date nights, during which they had left Alyssa with his mum before returning home and snuggling up in bed.

“Anna, thank you for giving birth to him.” Jade giggled from behind the camera, pointing it at Devon.

“Babe, you’re embarrassing me. Stop.” Devon chuckled, covering his face with a pillow. But Jade was having none of that, laying beside him and pulling the pillow away from him before kissing his cheek.

“Your accent’s sexy.” She giggled before giving him another kiss. Devon laughed, his eyes and nose crinkled as he pressed his face against her hair. “Like, I have to be the luckiest girl that ever came from our high school because I got the hot British guy. Honestly,” She played with his hair. “I love it.”

Devon laughed harder. “You started this video speaking to me mum and now you’re hitting on me!”

“Don’t judge me.” Jade nudged him, although she couldn’t help laughing a bit herself. Devon put his arm around her shoulders and kissed her head, looking towards the TV. She snuggled up to him and rested her head on his shoulder. “Besides, it’s not like I’m bragging about our amazing sex life.”

Now, that just about killed him. “Babe, oh my god—” His voice was between a laugh and a groan. “You’re doing this on purpose.”

Jade smirked, her fingers trailing up and down his ribcage. “Maybe I am. What are you gonna do about it, sir?” She taunted in an exaggerated British accent, trying her best to imitate his own. Devon snickered as he looked at the camera, his arm wrapped tightly around Jade.

“You’ll find out.”

“Hey!” Jade slapped his chest. “No fair…”

“Yeah? Oh well.” He chuckled, rubbing her upper arm and resting his head against hers. Then Jade suddenly became a little more serious, smiling softly as she looked up at him.

“I love you.” She whispered, touching his cheek.

Devon gently kissed her forehead. “I love you too.” He murmured, their noses now touching as they looked at each other with loving eyes. Almost two years into their marriage and everything seemed so perfect. They were on top of the world and nothing could destroy what they had.

Ever.

Tears had begun to fill Devon’s eyes as he opened another video, the very last one they ever took together. It was filmed only a week before she died. Just one week later and she would be struck down by a single bullet, and no one had any idea.

“Alyssa, come here!” Jade cooed as the two year old toddled in the sand. “Come to mommy!”

“You havin’ fun, love?” Devon said as he followed their daughter, who babbled as she picked up a sea shell and showed it to him. “Wow, look at that. Why don’t we put it in your special basket, yeah? Now, go see your mummy. She’s calling you.”

The camera panned to Jade, who was absolutely glowing as she held out her arms for Alyssa. Devon watched as Alyssa ran over to Jade, squealing as her mother picked her up. Jade looked over at the camera and waved, giggling as she spun their daughter around.

“She loves the beach, doesn’t she?” Devon chuckled as he walked closer, while Alyssa pointed at some  birds that flew by. Alyssa smiled at the camera, while Jade lovingly kissed her cheek.

“She does. Now, gimme the phone. I wanna film you.” She took the phone from her husband, turning the camera on him. In response, he gave two thumbs up, although he was clearly blushing. “Babe, stop being camera shy. You look hot. I like the scruff.”

“And I like your bikini.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “You should remove that cover-up and show it off more.”

“Dev, not in front of our daughter. Goodness…”

“What?” Devon laughed. “I’m just saying. Maybe we could check into a hotel and me mum could drive up here, and watch our kiddo. If she asks why, just say we’re busy, which wouldn’t be a lie–”

“Devon Carson Prescott!”

Apparently, Devon found it very amusing because he was laughing even harder now as he walked closer to the camera. Suddenly, Jade squealed, as a response to Devon giving her a playful slap on the behind as he walked past her. She flipped him off, even though she was now laughing too.

“Your daddy is an idiot, Lyss.” She giggled. “A cute idiot, but still an idiot.”

Devon couldn’t stand to watch anymore. He had officially snapped and in a fit of anger, he threw his phone across the room. It was a good thing that their videos were also saved to his laptop, otherwise the now broken phone would be a huge problem.

Shaking, he walked to the master bathroom and slammed the door shut, not paying any attention to the photograph that had fallen off the wall and shattered. But something about that sound triggered something in him. The loud crash took him back to a day that he wanted so desperately to forget. Suddenly, he was back in that convenience store, listening to the single shot that killed the love of his life.

Devon gripped his hair as he paced the bathroom, choking back sobs. The emotions were building inside of him, leaving him only seconds away from exploding. Until he finally snapped, throwing his fist at the mirror and watching it shatter into a million pieces. A disturbing thought crossed his mind at that moment as he looked down at the shards of glass. What if he could be with her again? What if he could abandon this life and join Jade on the other side?

Almost as if being controlled by an outside force, he sat on the floor with his back pressed against the wall, reaching for a piece of glass. Without a second thought, he pressed it against his wrist, squeezing his eyes shut.

I’ll see you soon, Jade.

He made a single cut on his wrist, watching as the blood began to flow. Then he made another…and another…and another…

In the middle of his desperate attempt at relief, he didn’t hear Jax calling for him.

“Dev? You here, bro? I tried calling your phone, but it was disconnected or something. You might wanna get it checked out.”

Time no longer existed for Devon in that moment. His mind was clouded as he once again pressed the glass to his arm, shaking with desperation, panic, and anger. He wanted to see Jade. He wanted his Jade back. He wanted to hold her in his arms again. Although, he wasn’t even sure if he was really trying to die. He didn’t know what he was thinking. He just knew that he was hurt and scared and he wanted relief from his pain.

“Shit, what are you doing?”

Suddenly, Jax was snatching the glass from him, and he wasn’t even in his right mind enough to get it back. He just lowered his arm and stared mindlessly ahead, shaking. He didn’t even flinch when his best friend began tending to his cuts. He was practically unresponsive, at least for that moment.

“They’re gonna kill us. They killed her and now they’re gonna kill us. Jax, we have to get out of here!” Devon said desperately.

“Hey, hey, what are you talking about? No one’s here except you and me–”

“YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND! THEY HAVE GUNS, DAMMIT! THEY’RE GONNA KILL US! THEY KILLED MY JADE AND NOW THEY’RE GONNA KILL US!” Devon screamed at him, trying to get away from his grip. But Jax was stronger, and he wrapped his arms around the hysterical boy, desperately trying to calm him.

“Devon!” He raised his voice in an effort to get Devon’s attention. “Man, snap out of it. No one is here. We’re at your house, in your bathroom, and it’s just you and me. No else. You’re okay. We’re safe.”

Something in Devon changed all of a sudden. Alertness returned and he looked up at Jax with absolutely confusion.

“W-what? Jax, what am I—”

He immediately noticed that panic and concern in Jax’s eyes, slowly looking down at his now bandaged arm. He shook his head and started to back away, only for Jax to grab him and pull him into a tight hug. Now that he was fully in his own mind again, he was scared. Very, very scared. Had he almost tried to kill himself? He almost left his daughter without any parents at all? What was he thinking, if anything at all?

“Dev,” Jax whispered. “You need help. You were screaming at me about….”

Dev gulped heavily as he stood up, everything spinning around him. He felt so dizzy and weak…he’d had episodes like this before, in moments of intense stress, but this was on a whole new level. It had reached a point of actually being frightening.

“Man, you need a hospital. You’re losing it.” Jax said, holding out his hands to steady Devon.

“NO!” Devon yelled, shrugging of his hands. “Leave me alone! Just..” He was shaking too much to remain standing and he lost his balance, collapsing into Jax’s arms.

He was done.

He was so very done.

He broke down in Jax’s arms and he listened as his friend called 911. It was only a matter of time before he cracked and it seemed that he had finally reached his breaking point.

But was it totally over?

Of course not. It would never be over, because the events that led to this moment would haunt him for the rest of his life.

[a-panda-reads-act-omega]

ACT OMEGA PART 22

THE 03/17/17 UPDATE

HERE WE GO, finally an update with a BUNCH of pages for me to comment about. Page 115-126, how exciting. God I need to get better with intro’s I’m sorry.

Heh, I like how everybody’s emotions are clear as day here. Anyways, nobody new’s here which makes me hope that this cast of characters will continue to interact and mingle.

W o ah there, calm yourself Vriska. She’s not lookin pleased with Tavvy over there. Also, I love how this is literally the exact same panel other than Vriska.

VRISKA: Wh8t?! VRISKA: The hell are all of you st8ring at???????? MEENAH: 38/

WHAT? IT’S PERFECTLY NORMAL TO PASS OUT DURING A LIFE-THREATENING BATTLE AGAINST AN UNKILLABLE GOD.

Fish gills changed a bit. This animation is also g re a t. I could literally watch Vriska just dust herself off for hours. God that sounded creepy. Fefefri is seeminnnn a lil taken aback here. And Meenah is real disappointed. Or just looking away to please Vriska, which would be cute but is probably not the case.

I love how not good Vriska is at recovering from embarrassing moments.

Oooohhh shit. Le’s behind the Juju im guessing, but that green hole is gettin closer and closer. They might need to start getting out of here soon.

VRISKA: What the hell just HAPPENED?

Homestuck happened.  And you passed out.

Tavros raising his hand like a student. He would totally be the kind of student the teacher always has to pander to, even though the rest of the class is tired of hearing the same thing explained over and over.

TAVROS: dO YOU MEAN, tHE EXPLOSION,,,? TAVROS: oR,,, TAVROS: WAS IT AN ATTACK? TAVROS: iT WAS HARD TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE, TAVROS: sO MAYBE IT DOESN’T MATTER,,,

Was that explosion he’s talking about just the LE mouth blast? I think it’s an attack Tavros. Less of an explosion than it was a beam with boomy results.

VRISKA: Tavros, stop. VRISKA: Just, stop. Right now. I’m already twice over the limit of how much 8ullshit I can take in one day, and your irrit8ing voice is THIS close to giving me a head8che. TAVROS: uHHH,,,? VRISKA: Nope, too l8. Migr8ne city, popul8tion: me! Thanks a 8uttload, 8oy skylark. TAVROS: i,,,iM,,,sORRY,,,? DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < yeah sorry about your head vwhiskers but i gotta interject here DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < furst off your head hurts beclaws it got hit with a deadly fuckin laser pointer

Hahah. Get it? Laser pointer. Because. CAT. And also, holy shit Vriska got HIT with that?? Or was it just an explosion thingy FROM the laser pointer that knocked her out.

DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < so blaming it on tavros f33ls purrty damn rude to me tbh DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < but i dont really wanna get into a catfight with you right now DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < or maybe not ever cause thats just like NOPE no thanks

You’re the best Davepeta. Almost as great as Vriska.

DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < cranky vriska? ill pass on that DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < especially since there are like DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < way more important things to be dealing with! DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < so ill let it slide fur now B33 DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < as you were saying tavros?

So can Davepeta just be Tavros’ wingman? Because holy shit that’d be great. Actually, could this be the beginning of a beautiful PALE ROMANCE?? Probably not because ARquius is totally their soulmate.

TAVROS: wELL,,, tHANK YOU, fOR SPEAKING ON MY BEHALF, eVEN IF IT WASN’T STRICTLY NECESSARY,

It was necessary tavros.

TAVROS: uHHHH,,,

My point exactly.

TAVROS: bIRD NEPETA? TAVROS: oR, wHOEVER YOU ARE, DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < youre half right! DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < its davepeta TAVROS: oH, TAVROS: oKAY, TAVROS: sO,,,dAVEPETA,,, TAVROS: dO YOU THINK IT WAS AN ATTACK OR AN EXPLOSION? DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < tavros DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < are you holding onto your socks because im about to blow them the fuck off DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < i think it was an attack DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < that was ALSO an explosion DAVEPETASPRITE^2: B33 < >B33 TAVROS: }:o

:o MAN, Davepeta you need to chill! I have to go get dressed now, because you just blew my entire OUTFIT off! from shirt to shorts, nothing could withstan the sheer FORCE of your shocking observation.

VRISKA: UGH!!!!!!!!

Shut up Vriska.

Oh. We also got a Porrim back there. And, I guess that’s just Kankri? Maybe the same one, maybe a different? Vriska needs to chill though.

VRISKA: I don’t have TIME for this! VRISKA: Who gives a shit if it was an att8ck or WH8TEVER!!!!!!!! VRISKA: Am I the really only person who c8res about m8king sure the most evil fucker in all of paradox space is FINALLY DE8D FOR GOOD?!?!?!?! VRISKA: Isn’t that what we r8sed an entire army for?? VRISKA: The army that is NOWH8RE TO 8E FOUND, 8Y THE W8Y!!!!!!!!

I think they’re all d e a d Vriska. And you’re assuming way too much of this group of NINCOMPOOPS. They literally are just doing whatever.

MEENAH: vriska VRISKA: WH8T!!!!!!!! MEENAH: you need to krill out for a sec

Exactly. Krill out girl.

VRISKA: NO, *YOU* “KRILL OUT”!!!!!!!! VRISKA: I AM N8T GOING TO KRILL IN A SINGLE FUCKING DIRECTION UNTIL SOME8ODY DECIDES TO OPEN THEIR MOUTH AND FILL ME IN ON WH8T THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED!!!!!!!! MEENAH: the armys gone

Yup. Everybody fucking died via death laser.

FFS CHILL Vriska.

VRISKA: GONE?! VRISKA: No SHIT, they’re GONE! VRISKA: Do YOU see a throng of expenda8le, huddled masses anywh8re near8y, Meenah?? 8ecause if so, NOW WOULD 8E A GR8 TIME TO LET ME KNOW! MEENAH: ...

Calm down Vriska, before you push away the people that AREN’T dead. I mean, who know’s if these guys even care enough to keep working for you anyways. I’d say Meenah’s the last person you should be yelling at.

VRISKA: No?? That’s what I fucking THOUGHT. VRISKA: Th8nk you SO much for that astute o8serv8tion! VRISKA: That sure clears up JACK SQU8T! VRISKA: Now how a8out we get 8ack to the LESS immedi8tly o8vious! VRISKA: Gone WHERE? And more importantly, WHY! MEENAH: listen serks i could really do without the attitide MEENAH: if you took two seconds to breathe you could prolly figure it out yourself MEENAH: but if itll help you clam down...

Exactly, Clam down Vriska. Because it doesn’t take a goddamn genius to figure out they’re all dead.

VRISKA: It DEFIN8TELY will. So spill!!!!!!!! MEENAH: they got blasted VRISKA: Are you serious? VRISKA: He took out EVERYONE? In one hit?! MEENAH: nah not all of em MEENAH: but a lotta double death happened yeah MEENAH: i mean the weapon didnt do flip of what it was SUPPOS-ED to do as far as i could tell MEENAH: it did a pretty good job of sheildin our asses MEENAH: (youre whalecome btw)

Meenah, you’re the true hero here. I mean a calm troll who’s powerful, smart, and only sometimes out of order? I’d say that’s the best kinda troll we can get.

MEENAH: but anybody who didnt get behind it MEENAH: definitely got fried VRISKA: So? Where’s Lord English now?? VRISKA: 8ecause if we need to track him down, we need to get on that like, yesterday!

He isn’t still there? I thought he’d just be doing some angry lord english stuff. Hopefully he isn’t causing too much trouble.......

MEENAH: uh MEENAH: dudes still havin a tantrum over there actually

Oh. I was r i g h t .

VRISKA: Then why the hell are we all the w8y out here?! MEENAH: look vriska MEENAH: the plan didnt work MEENAH: you got KOd or passed out or whatever the shell MEENAH: and the army got gutted MEENAH: so i figured the only sensible fin to do was a tactical retreat VRISKA: Okay, fine. That WAS pretty sensi8le. MEENAH: except MEENAH: most of everyone didnt STOP retreatin MEENAH: no matter what inspirational crab i threw at them VRISKA: .......

Oh.

Oh.

so there WERE more survivors, but the most’ve them just bailed on the scene. Damn. Well, who can blame them? Double death isn’t for everyone I suppose.

Well ARADIA sure seems happy :D

MEENAH: sorry aboat your head by the way MEENAH: ill admit that was my bad MEENAH: aint easy to haul ass in sand with dead weight over your shoulder

To the people behind ACT OMEGA: You better get me a gif of Meenah dragging Vriska face down through the sand.

ARADIA: hey! ARADIA: at least theres a bright side to all this

Of COURSE there is AA.

Awe. This team charge hug is actually kinda precious. Tavros’ little smile, and Aradia’s “appreciate him!” look.

ARADIA: tavros convinced a few people to stay ARADIA: right? :D

Oh, well that’s good then! So far, I know we have... Tavros, Aradia, Sollux, Kankri, Porrim, Mituna, Feferi, Latula, Vriska, Meenah, Davepeta, and possibly more.

TAVROS: i DID, TAVROS: tHROUGH THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP,

TAVROS: aND A LARGE QUANTITY OF WORDS, sPOKEN DIRECTLY FROM THE HEART, TAVROS: eVEN THOUGH IT WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER IF ALL OF THEM HAD STAYED, i THINK, TAVROS: tHERE IS A PART OF ME THAT ALSO THOUGHT LEAVING MIGHT HAVE BEEN A GOOD IDEA,,, TAVROS: cONSIDERING, hOW THINGS LOOK PRETTY HOPELESS NOW, TAVROS: bUT THAT PART OF ME IS THE ONE THAT MISSED OUT ON THE COMPLETION, oF MY SUCCESSFUL AND FULFILLING CHARACTER ARC,

He get’s so cocky sometimes, but it’s the kind of cocky where he’s nervous he’s not looking cocky in the right way. What the hell am I typing. I just love how self aware he is.

TAVROS: wHICH IS WHAT THE MAJORITY OF THE REST OF ME IS COMPRISED OF, TAVROS: eSPECIALLY THE PARTS THAT WERE KICKING LORD ENGLISH IN THE FACE, nOT TOO LONG AGO, TAVROS: aND TRUTHFULLY, i AM STILL PRETTY FIRED UP, fROM THAT, TAVROS: sO I IGNORED THE COWARDLY IMPULSE, aND INSTEAD STAYED TO HELP MY FRIENDS, sEE THIS UNDERTAKING THROUGH TO THE END, TAVROS: aND THERE WERE SOME PEOPLE, wHO AGREED WITH ME, TAVROS: wHICH ARE THE PEOPLE WHO ARE HERE, pRESENTLY,

Goddammit, these people aren’t the brightest. They had to have stayed with him out of pity. If all of your friends are running away, and the only person asking you to stay and fight an unkillable demon was T A V R O S .

You’d run.

Sollux doesn’t wanna be here.

ARADIA: see? sollux and i even stayed to help too ARADIA: in fact were all here to help ARADIA: well maybe some of us are here mostly out of curiosity SOLLUX: 0r b0red0m.

Or pity. Or self-hate. Or a deathwish.

ARADIA: or that too! or maybe even a mishmash of all sorts of motivations ARADIA: but whatever the reason we are on your side ARADIA: so i get the feeling if you dont lighten up a little ARADIA: some of us might suddenly have a lot more of a reason to join the others ARADIA: and find something else to do

Nice way of putting it Aradia. Vriska really needs to Clam down and Krill out, because she’s gonna lose the few she has with her still.

OH SHIT THAT’S THE END OF THE UPDATE. Well then, that’d be my cue to sleep. it’s 2:15 AM an I have summerschool in 5 hours. gnight folks. 

#Homestuck #homestuck liveblog #Act Omega #hs act omega #act omega liveblog #hs act omega liveblog

[chaldeluxe]

I was shocked to see no one translated vanilla Cu’s interlude, that’s all.

Geis ゲッシュ 

__________________

Mashu: A monster boar… in the forest?

Dr. Roman: Yeah, there’ve been plenty of eyewitnesses stating they’ve seen them around the forests here.

Cu Chulainn: And that’s why you’re needin’ my help? It’s not like I’m a hunter or anything. Surely you have someone more suited for this kinda work. Like Finn’s man, the best with a spear. Know him?

Dr. Roman: Ah, yeah, I get the feeling he’d decline. Boars are… well, let’s just say out of all of you, he’s ranked top for trauma when it comes to them…

[CHOICE]

Are you talking about Diar-

Then how about Atala-

Mashu: Stop, senpai. Everyone has something they have a difficult time dealing with.

Fou: Fou…

Cu Chulainn: Guess I’ve got no choice, huh… it’s no problem, my pal here was gettin’ pretty dull at the tip anyway. And it looks like they’ve already gone and popped up. Hasty now, aren’t we? 

Mashu: This isn’t a boar, it’s a stray homunculus. Master, prepare for battle..!

BATTLE START / END

Cu Chulainn: That’s a wrap for now. So, where’s that boar you were talkin’ about?

Mashu: It’s strange. The information we’d been given said we’d stumble upon it as soon as we entered the forest… but we ended up being assaulted by a homunculus instead.

Cu Chulainn: … looks like I found ‘em, footprints for that boar of yours. Pretty big ones, too.

Dr. Roman: Now there’s the expertise I was looking for. This monster hunting business was pretty much made for the Celtic Heroic Spirits, don’t you think?

Cu Chulainn: Flattery won’t get you anywhere. Let’s go, Master. Still… it’s a little odd ――

Mashu: Ah… senpai, let’s be on our way too.

Fou: Fou!!

Cu Chulainn: ―― it’s here. Over there.

Dr. Roman: Eh!? There wasn’t anything in this direction that gave any sort of reaction though…

Cu Chulainn: Over there, shaded by that rock. Looks like things are about to get dicey… 

Mashu: That is one enormous boar…  … though it seems it may already by dead.

Dr. Roman: It sure is huge… you can’t really call it a ‘boar’ anymore.

Cu Chulainn: Y'think? They’re pretty cute 'bout this size. Ours back home were all burdened with carryin’ a huge amount of runes on their backs, you know.

Dr. Roman: Celtic boars ate runes, huh… makes them sound like a species tougher than dragons….

Mashu: Still, I wonder how such an enormous boar like this could’ve been defeated so easily?

Cu Chulainn: ―― leave that for later, little lady. Here it comes… the real show’s about to start.

Dr. Roman: Wha!? The Synthetic Beast: Chimera!? What’s something like that doing here!?

Mashu: Master, please stand back. We’ll intercept the enemy!!

Cu Chulainn: Guess some terrible mage had to go and let their dog run free. … well, whatever. Don’t know exactly where the chimera’s heart lies, but I’m afraid your luck’s pretty much run out after having crossed my path. Y'may be ill-mannered, but it’s well worth the trouble. Alright.

That heart of yours, I’ll be taking it―――!!

BATTLE START/END

Cu Chulainn: Whaddya know, seems like even Synthetic Beasts only have one heart. Guess you can’t judge a book by its cover.

Mashu: I thought it was pretty formidable though… Master, are you hurt?

[CHOICE]

No, I’m okay.

But why was that even here?

Cu Chulainn:  … I get it now. So that’s what this is about. Hey, stand back a bit. … should be right around here. … there we go.

Dr. Roman: That’s.. rune magecraft?

Mashu: Senpai, beneath the rock’s shadow, there’s a cave… !!

Cu Chulainn: They went and hid the entrance with magic. It’s gotta be an abandoned workshop of theirs. Leave it to some third-rate mage to move out and become a problem. If you’re gonna move at least clean up before you go.

Dr. Roman: I see. So something happened in the abandoned workshop and ended up freeing one of the experiments…  This was just supposed to be about a boar hunt and it ended up being something else completely… in any case, all’s well that ends well, I guess?

Mashu: What should we do with their remains? To just leave them out here like this would be…

Cu Chulainn: Yeah. How 'bout we just cook 'em up and have hotpot? I’m feelin’ pretty famished now that everything’s settled down!

[CHOICE]

Boar hotpot sounds great!

Is chimera hotpot even a thing!?

Cu Chulainn: You can eat it for sure. As long as it’s meat, it’s edible. Just set it on fire and somethin’s sure to turn out. Long as it’s been cooked it shouldn’t spoil our stomachs, but we’ll deal with it if it comes! Alright, tonight we live in luxury! Let’s get to preparin’ this so we can split it up with the guys back home at Chaldea!

Fou: Fou!!

Mashu: … still,  ――― you’re actually a fairly decent cook. That is to say, you’re actually quite the diverse Heroic Spirit, aren’t you?

Cu Chulainn: I was out-and-about a lot in the past, that’s all. Oh! This chimera stuff’s actually turnin’ out pretty good.

Fou: Fou!! (munch munch)

Mashu: Do you also think it’s tasty, Fou-san?

Dr. Roman: I don’t know whether I should point out how terrifying you guys are or what, but… you sure are eating a lot, despite the fact that we have no idea what’s even in it.

[CHOICE]

This is pretty good!!

This sort of thing is fine. Just fine.

Cu Chulainn: … wait a tick. This chimera or whatever doesn’t have any dog in it, does it? 

Dr. Roman: I wonder. Though it wouldnt be called a chimera if a ton of living creatures hadn’t been mixed up together to make it. There’s definitely a chance, at least. But what’s it matter?

Cu Chulainn: You should’ve said so earlier, dumbass!! Augh, I’m headin’ back!!

Mashu: Eh!? Are you sure you don’t want some?

Cu Chulainn: I don’t need any!! See ya!! Dammitー!! I can’t believe this!!

[CHOICE]

I wonder what the big deal is?

Ah, could it be…

Dr. Roman: Yeah, Culann’s savage hound…  He made a vow in his lifetime to never partake in any dogmeat, if I remember correctly. 

Mashu: They say he ended up taking the guard dog’s place.. or something like that? Ah, so that’s why… (munch munch)

[CHOICE]

But it’s so yummy…

Seems like we screwed up.

Fou: Fou!!

#FGO #fate grand order #interlude: cu chulainn

[survivorkomnata]

Episode #6: "in the wise words of The Rolling Stones, you can't always get what you want." - Stephen Z

With Isaac eliminated, there really isn't anywhere for any of us to hide. I talked with Jess and Alyssa and all 3 of us really wanted there to be a merge here. Unfortunately, in the wise words of The Rolling Stones, you can't always get what you want.

I trust Jess. She said she'd go to rocks for me at this past vote if she had to and I think she was telling the truth. We have allies from old Takagi we're just waiting to re-connect with and possibly take over this joint! I've worked with her in successful plans and in failures. We've been allies at our most uncertain points in the game and we came out the other end of it in the numbers.

But I trust Alyssa too. Really. When Jess was sent to the basement, we came up with the plan to make Isaac vote Jess instead of me, which he was originally planning to do. In a way, I betrayed Jess there in order to make sure I wasn't a target at Tribal Council. Alyssa is a good player, and I could really use an ally like her.

It's at the point where losing this Immunity Challenge is bad for me no matter what happens afterwards. There's no possible elimination from this tribe that is good for my game. If we lose, I'm going to either lose one of my closest allies, or my own game could very well end.

I can’t believe it’s day 15 already. Isaac left so that’s another orinigal Kato gone, my only concern is that every Tagaki member will stick together but there has to be cracks, especially since Karthik has told me with who he did not talk so I could use that if I need it in a future merge, me and Zach have continued to get along so maaaybe I would be fine if we ever went to tribal.

i just did immunity and prepared ~15 lists.

none of them were used.

i flopped.

and before i started, jones said two haunting words that will forever trigger me . . .

"spelling counts" i shudder when i write this and i responded, "well it'so ver"

furthering my triggeredness (sp?)

WE JUST WON and I maaaay have just made merge witg being in Final 11 and whewww, hopefully we merge but even if we don't I feel like I will be safe, me and Zach talked about what could happen if we lose and we both said that we were NOT gonna vote each other and I'm happy to be playing with him rn, especially since he has become my new #1 since Fede's elimination.

Ugh Zach beast moded again, talk about challenge threat he’ll definitely go soon after merge. As soon as possible if I get any say. So I’m in the basement, and the teddy bear betrayed me and apparently I got a finger boo-boo and thats knocked me out for my entire time down there :/ Also Stephen the Lesser didn’t go home last round rip. I’m worried about Luke. At least if he goes I know Ally isn’t on my side and I didn’t have to find that out when she votes me out.

Zach wins immunity once again for the tribe all by himself....my wig. This guy isn't letting me go to the tribal council :| Gosh, this is getting so boring for me now. I am just locked up here and this doesnt feel like playing Survivor at all. I am ready for the merge and hoping for some crazy fun stuff to follow it. I have consciously underplayed my social game with Miguel and a bit with Jake so that I dont appear as a threat when we merge. Uhhhhh thats it, bye!

I’m finding myself at tribal once again, at this point I have been to almost every tribal this season, but if I’m remembering correctly, have avoided getting a single vote at any tribal so far. I’m feeling okay as Ally and I seem to be on the same page for this vote and therefore have control of the vote. I’d rather an og Takagi go home so we can keep the og kato numbers at a good point for merge. I’m a tad nervous that I could be blindsided tonight at tribal but I’m hoping my loyal allies don’t decide to go down that route, we have been working well together and I don’t want this to end for me, I feel that I’m playing this game really well as I’m showing a new side of myself each week. I’m so close to the merge and I’m really hoping to make it to the merge this time around. The game continues and I’m ready for whatever comes next.

Ok so I'm not sure if I confessed or not but rip Isaac!! I saw it coming. I completed the challenge and Um!!!! I FLOPPED SO HARD. I HOPE my tribe can pull through and win this. Me and Karthik are already taking precautions by discussing the vote in case we lose and one of us is sent to the basement. I suggested Miguel and he was down for that vote!

The fact that I've made it to Day 16 is really astounding given the fact that I've been playing worse than I thought. The bright point is me and Ally are hopefully gonna live through this tribal! If all goes to plan, we've hopefully flipped Luke and Stephen will be going home. Would be nice to have a takagi idol but oh well :)))))

Not having to worry about a challenge to Tribal Council has been really refreshing. I feel really comfortable predicting that the merge is coming up soon. F11 is a great time to merge since it makes since whether Final Tribal has 2 or 3 finalists. My plan then will be re-connecting with my old Takagi allies plus Alyssa so we can take down that original Kato alliance she told me and Jess about. That will only get me so far though.

Once the merge happens, I'll be a lot less worried for my own safety. I honestly don't think I'm seen as a huge threat right now in any of my alliances. I need to pay attention to how the people I'm planning to send to jury perceive me and my allies though. Most of them have never talked to me before so I'm worried in that regard. However, I've been pretty good at forging new alliances in this game. The merge is my last chance to make some positive first impressions and I plan to do just that.

Pretty sure the pressure of this challenge aged me a good 10 years. It was a do or die kind of a competition for my tribe. If we would have lost I would have most likely had to take out Alyssa. If I kept her over an original tribe member it'd be basically death for me in this game.

BUT we didn't lose so.......ha. However, the more I think about it.. the more I KIND of want to keep her around since she's a target? But I've also done that before and she won the game. I'm a M-E-S-S.

I'm pretty sure merge is this upcoming round and I don't think I have a gameplay for it. I think I will most likely have to reconnect with Tim somehow and constantly reassure him that I'M NOT WITH ALYSSA. Then I gotta kill Zach in this game somehow. I can see him winning all of the competitions going forward unless it's a luck based competition... I'm going to have to adapt and that's that.

I don't know if the basement would even be considered a thing come merge but I can see Stephen W pulling off the unthinkable and found something...

Ok so I'm not sure if I confessed or not but rip Isaac!! I saw it coming. I completed the challenge and Um!!!! I FLOPPED SO HARD. I HOPE my tribe can pull through and win this. Me and Karthik are already taking precautions by discussing the vote in case we lose and one of us is sent to the basement. I suggested Miguel and he was down for that vote!

So I also talked to Zach about a potential tribal and I mentioned Miguel but he was hesitant and asked why him. I simply stated that I like Jake more lol. But we ended up WINNING!!!!!!!! And omg Zach got a fucking 100 and carried the hell out of my flop score of 26.

i'm going to answer your questions: 1 - i'm not sure who'll leave. i wouldn't be surprised to see stephen or luke have the idol. i honestly... couldn't predict it. 2 - merge is either gonna be after tonights tribal or final 10. BAM! 3 - i have one. i think one of alyssa/stephen/luke have kato idol. if alyssa, the bitch has two idols. 4 - fuck the basement. i wanna go there one day. 5 - this game is v well hosted i'm sorry yawls aint gettin confs ?? 6 - sister only got 2 more rounds at most so.

-- tim told karthik & i that if we went to tribal, he'd wanna vote miguel. it's interesting, but it's not surprising (in the regard that jake is better socially than miguel) but i wasn't going to let that happen, no ma'am.

i don't have much to say butttt ill make more content or whatever WHEN merge hits (or post tribal i guess, if it's just another round).

karthiks so fucking funny omg i love him btw. i post my fav memories w/ him in the conf but ya.

FUCKING FINALLY. If we legit went to tribal with 3 people I have no doubt I would’ve been fucked. I KNOW Jess has cutting me on her mind because she must be thinking she won’t be able to win the game otherwise. I’m really pulling for Stephen to survive in this Takagi tribal council. I need him once we get to merge to face the people who tried to get me out at the beginning of this game.

Liam is voted out in a 3-1 vote.

#episode #escapenow

[generouslyteenagealpaca-blog]

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i'm looking for a way to get insurance leads, I would rather own software myself as appose to paying for an individual leads, can anyone tell me the name of a some good software? thanks in advance!""

State Farm Car insurance payment question?

I have to make a payment on my car insurance 3 days late (it comes due 3 days before pay day, since they changed the due date on me). However, I don't want my coverage to be dropped. I called my agent's office and the girl told me she would suspend my payment, but that they might send me a cancellation notification. She said I should ignore it. Does this mean I will loose coverage for those 3 days, or do I have a small grace period ?""

Motorcycle insurance for a teen?

Ever since i was 5 i have been memorized by motorcycles, street, track, cruiser, dirt a little bit of everything in each category. Now im 18 years old and have decided its time to look past the awe and articles and into owning one! Iv been into the supermoto scene for over a year now just thrilled with them. Im hoping to get a wr250r/x, klx250, or drz 400. The online insurance quotes were nuts for basic liability! (6100-6800$ cnd) I hear others having 7$/monthly from the states. Has anyone has experience with this and are the quotes accurate? (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) Thanks for your time- hope you know more on this than me!""

Do i need car insurance?

well basically i cracked my sideview mirror and the plastic holding it is a little lifted from normal place.. if i went to an auto shop to fix it, would i need car insurance or could i just get it done and pay with cash?""

Car Insurance Question?

I'm a 16 year old girl with a car, and I wanted to know how much my car insurance price will range in. I'll be driving a white sedan (say a Corolla/Mazda 3, 2005-2007). How much will be my car insurance?""

Can i collect life insurance after a murder.?

My dad has a large life insurance policy on him and i am the head beneficiary. if he happens to be murdered by some unknown suspect would i be able to collect the money or would it have to be accidental or natural death.

How much will my insurance cost?

Hi! I'm a new driver and thinking of getting a new honda accord 2013. I'm 20 years old and I'm wondering whats my quota gonna be? thanks!

17 year old auto insurance? new york?

okay so my parents don't drive...(my bro does tho...except he moved to LA for business for the next year :( ) so my parents want to get me a car...you know so i can chauffeur them places and stuff. thing is i'm 16 and i have a class DJ license (i was able to take the road test because i took drivers ed. ) i'll be 17 pretty soon and i'll have a regular class D license. So i wanted to know even thought my parents don't have licenses and don't drive can they legally buy me a car and auto insurance? please answer! can't find anything online! :)

Bike insurance for a cbr 600?

i live in halifax nova scotia in a rural area and was woundring how much it would cost just for plpd i allready have a bike witch is a 200cc and it cost me 300 and some odd dollors for the year woundring how much it would be for a cbr 600 year around 1998-2005 and i took a drivers course for bike and car and been with my insurance company for about a year now for my bike would they give me any speacials. also i have gotten no tickets or crashed got a clean slate.

Who has the cheapest auto insurance?

I'm about to come back from active duty overseas and I just bought a 2004 Ford F150 4x4. I'm 28 and havent had any accidents or driving infractions in the past 5 years. Which provider is generally the best to use? Thanks.

Around how much would insurance be in georgia for a 16 year old with a 2008 yamaha r1?

Around how much would insurance be in georgia for a 16 year old with a 2008 yamaha r1?

How can I save money on my car insurance?

I'm a young driver who's only just passed. Is it OK to put my Dad as the main driver when in reality I will be driving the car most of the time? I heard it's cheaper that way. Also I know Pass Plus can decrease it. Does putting it in a garage and having good security decrease it? What other things can I do to save - the cheapest quote so far I found is 1,600!""

""I need insurance, but dont own a car, HELP!!!!!?""

Just like it says, need insurance to get my lisence here in NC but i dont got a car, HELP!!! I plan on gettin a car soon.""

Looking for good car for insurance?

Im looking to get a new car but i was wondering if there was a website that listed how much insurance might run me. dont really need exact priceing just looking for ballpark figuer.

Health Insurance in California - Low Income?

I am on Unemployment Insurance, and need to see a doctor. Is there a State or County Medical benefits?""

Whats the insurance of a maserati granturismo?

i wanna buy a maserati granturismo, what would the insurance be ?""

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

17 year old student Car Insurance for a Ford Fiesta 1.25 or a 1.4 climate 2004-2005?

Insurance for a Ford Fiesta 1.25 or a 1.4 climate 2004-2005 I need reasonable car insure I have no no claims bonus and I am new driver. I have been quoted around 4000 fully com on a 4000 car. My budget for insurance is around 1400 full or third party. I am an A level Law student I will going to uni next year and I might use the car to commute to there

Do you need insurance to drive a car?

i live in alberta and i am wondering do you have to get insurance in order to drive a car will you be in trouble if you drive without insurance?????

""I got pulled over, and failed to surrender insurance?""

I was driving my friends home from a party one night, (being a DD), unfortunately I was caught going 123 in a 90 zone, and then I got pulled over. The police officer told me that not only I was speeding, but I was driving past midnight with a G2 class license. But the only thing I was charged with, was a 65$ fine for not surrending insurance, because I was driving my Dad's truck and could not find the insurance papers ANYWHERE. Since the police officer said there were no demerits to be added, does this mean my insurance rates will go up? I plan on pleading guilty and paying the ticket.""

My own car insurance help?!?

I've been a named driver on my boyfriends policy for over a year. I've started a new job and they've said I have to have business insurance and I cant get that upgrade from my boyfriends policy because we dont live together and are not married as such. I've bought car insurance now, but am wondering if anyone knows what happens to my 'named driver' part on my boyfriends insurance as he really only has the policy for me, cos his work etc pays all his for his company vehicle. Can he get refunded my 'named driver' bit? or cancel the whole policy?! Any advice would be great! Thanks""

What the youngest age someone can get auto insurance?

What the youngest age someone can get auto insurance?

Switching insurance - will my accutane be covered??

In a weird spot - will be switching insurance within a month and a half... but i'm just starting accutane now... will the treatment be covered when i switch health insurance companies?! please help!

Teen Car Insurance in California?

My friends is asking about, How much is the insurance for a modified car for teens. ok let say I brought a modified car from the owner and I wan to insure it how much would be my insurance? I want to know in California I don't care about other states thanks!!!!""

Do you liability car insurance or full coverage?

Do you have liability car insurance or full coverage insurance? Pros and cons?

Car insurance ?

ok heres my problem. i am 18 and i just finished a drivers ed program i want to get my license but i cant because in order to take the road test to get my full license (not a learners) i need a car on which i am insured but i cannot buy a car because in order to even buy a car you need to have some one in the house which you live in who has car insurance and no one in my family drives so they dont have insurance as you can see im in a cycle that i cant get out of... what do i do?

How much is your car insurance?

around how much would it be for a teen lets say?

USAA insurance for motorcycles?

Does anyone know what motorcycle insurance through USAA would cost for a female beginner between the ages of 18-24? first bike (let's say a Buell Blast, if the type of motorcycle matters), never had any accidents or speeding tickets, and passed all the safety courses, etc. I'd look it up myself, but for some reason the website isn't letting me look at the motorcycle section right now. Thanks in advance.""

""On a family plan (Car Insurance), Must all members covered live under the same address?""

My boyfriends dad is a penny pincher and has my boyfriend under the families car insurance to save money. I don't know if it is legal or not, but my boyfriend does not live with his parents (and the address on the insurance is his parents house). He is also is not insured on the car he is driving (his dad is, because he has points)... Will someone please say if this is allowed...so we can put this argument to rest!""

Caught with no car insurance?

i asked this question already, but don't think i was specific enough, i am fully insured on a golf, which my boyfriend drove, beleiving he was insured under his company insurance as third party,since he drives dozens of cars at work.(and at a similar company he worked for last year it did cover him) however when he asked for the insurance policy from work he was informed it only covered the work fleet cars. it was a stupid but honest mistake, will he lose his licence?""

How is insurance on a 2004 GLI?

I am a 17 year old High School Student I am a male and make Good grades, How much would insurance be on a 2004 VW GLI. Most of the cars I've been looking at are way to expensive to insure. Does it being a 4 door sedan lower the price at all.""

How much does medical insurance cost per month?

I'm talking about medical insurance gotten through an employer. And I'm interested in the FULL premium, not just the employee's share. (So if your employer pays half, multiply your payment by 2.) Whatever your situation, please let me know. Because I want to know what to expect for each of the following situations: - Employee Only Insured - Employee + Spouse - Employee + Child - Whole Family Thanks!""

I'm 17 my car is in the garage how much would I be looking at on insurance for a weeks cover on a 106 1.4?

I need to get to work and back so I need to use a car, how much would this roughly cost? THANKS""

A realistic way for a full time college student to make money.?

This student is a 20 unit UCLA Law major who needs money but can't even work a part-time job. Without inculding college debt, this student needs 1.5k every month(rent, car, gas, food, insurance, utilities). A part-time min-wage job is not an option due to class load and $400-$500 isn't worth negitive effects on performance. Thus, I'm asking for out of the box ideas. No get a job at McDonalds or Spend less money . Those have already been thought of and done.""

How much is insurance on a 05-06 chrysler 300c?

I plan to pay cash for it (around $8,000) and since I will only be 17, it will still be under my parents name although I am paying for it. Should I go with liability or full coverage, and how much would each cost?""

Why are car insurance companies trying to make me go bankrupt?

Okay, this is extremely frustrating. I'm a 19 year old student, who works part time. I have all-state insurance full coverage, and I drive a 2001 toyota tacoma, which is paid off. And guess how much Allstate charges me every 6 months? $750!!!!!!!!!!!! That is absolutely ridiculous. These son of a bitches are totally ridiculous charging me that. I've never had a ticket, never been in an accident. And I don't care if i'm 19 that price is absolutely absurd for that car. I'm almost at the point where I just wanna go illegal and drive without insurance. I'm looking sleep every night over this I mean seriously do they think a 19 year old college student is made of money. And the funny thing is it's under my parents policy and its this much!!!""

""First time driver, why is a Smart Fortwo 2002 reg third party fire and theft so expensive on insurance?!?""

I recently did an insurance quote for a Smart Fortwo, the value of it 2400, and the insurance came up third party fire and theft at 2900!!! :O why for such a small and low engine car would it be so gob smackingly expensive?! I hope someone can put my mind at rest because i really would love to know! Thanks :D""

What are the minimum state requirements for car insurance in california?

What are the minimum state requirements for car insurance in california?

Cheap car & insurance for young male driver?

Cheap car & insurance for young male driver? My brother is 23. He has passed his licence 2 years ago and his pass plus 1 1/2 years ago. He's still struggling to find a car & insurance that he can afford. He's not fussy about the type of car so long as it's not a girls car (ie chiqichenco). The insurance can be third party etc. He has a budget of 400 for the car, what should he buy? The insurance quotes so far for various 1.0l-1.3l cars have all been over 1000 which is out of his price range. Any help would be greatly appreciated. xxx""

Im 17 and i need cheap insuarnce on a 1.0 corsa?

i live in the uk. my parents are not with me..soo this means i cant be a named driver. how am i gna get cheap insurance.. give me tips and cheap insuance companies websites please..

""If you buy a car that's been in an accident will this affect your insurance rate? If so, why?""

I want to purchase this car. I think it's a great price, but the dealer told me it's been in an accident and that insurance paid for the damages. Since it's on record and if I were to buy it would my car insurance rate be affected??""

Hit a car. How much insurance can go up?

Have good driving record for 3 years and with Progressive. How much insurance can go up if I hit a car and damage like this... http://www.whymagic.com/html/images/front_bl_before_lg.jpg http://www.whymagic.com/html/images/before-after/front_before_lg.jpg

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

Car insurance question?

If I am driving a company truck and lets say I got a ticket.. will my car insurance go up.. even though I am driving a company truck that is insured by the company..

Can you get rental car insurance without having regular auto insurance!?

I don't own a car, but I plan on renting one real soon. I was just wondering if its required to have some auto insurance already prior to getting CDW for the rental.""

Will buying a salvage title car make my insurance go up? ?

The car is in mint condition now I got a mechanic o look at it it's fully restored but if I buy it will it effect my car insurance

Insurance Card?

Is it true that your insurance company can refuse to cover you if you didn't have possession of your card in the car at the time of the accident? This is what I was told by a police officer at the scene. (I have a valid insurance policy, but I just didn't have the card there.)""

Why is car insurance expensive?

So I'm looking at these insurance rates and im thinking all of this car insurance is a huge scam! Why do we need it?? And why is it sooo expensive for experienced drivers?

""If I buy auto insurance online from statefarm, how do i get my insurance card?""

Do I just print it out, or do they mail it to me? How long do I have to stay before I cancel without getting a cancellation fee? 6 months, a year? Is the final quote going to be the cost, or can they raise it immediately?""

CBR600F4i motorcycle insurance... $360/month?

Huh.. i just did an online quote with progressive insurance and the dang thing says $360/month for coverage. is this normal. I'm 35 years old, yes, a beginner, but is a 600cc bike gonna be that expensive for insurance?""

Car Insurance Question?

Okay, can your car insurance go up if you get a ticket, a lawyer fixes it, and you get no points on your license? In other words, do you have to get points on your license for your insurance payment to go up?""

Car insurance and license suspended?

i got car insurance on my car i have always had it but my parents say that if i got my license suspended in one state, i dont got car insurance in that very state but i do in any other state, i am totally confused someone please clarify this??""

How much is car insurance for a teenager?

Just an estimate, I'm getting my license in a couple months and it would be nice to know. I'm getting added on my parents plan btw.""

Hey how much will car insurance be when i start driving at 16?

ok heres the thing,ill be 16 years old when i get my dl,our insurance is mercury,and i am gonna drive a 1991 civic hatchback,or a 1992 integra any clues o how much per month""

Will the insurance go up?

My boyfriend drag races his bike for fun. But the one race he got hurt. His brother offered to ride it home for him, since we didn't have a trailor. His brother wrecked it on the way home. But since it wasn't my boyfriend driving, will his insurance go up?""

How much is the average travel trailer insurance rate?

I am interested in getting a modern (2005 +) travel trailer approx 25-28'. I wanted to know what the average rate would be to insure it. Also, is it a requirement to get it insured? Thanks.""

Maternity and Health Insurance?

If you have health insurance but do not have maternity insurance. Does the health insurance cover any of the hospital. etc fees? Example...Hospital stay?

Was car insurance affordable before it was mandated by law ?

Why or why not ?

Is it legal for insurance companies to require that you have a certain amount for personal bodily injury?

coverage before they can give you an insurance quote.

How does insurance in general work?

and what are some of the rules of finanace for insurance??

How can I get health insurance for my foreign-born mother-in-law?

We live in California, she's from Japan and is 74 years old.""

How much would it cost to put an 18 year old on progressive car insurance?

I have to add my daughter to my insurance and I want some input before I make any decisions. What is a good estimate for how much it would cost?

Health insurance when a baby is born?

Ok me and my fiance are expecting a child sometime in June, now if we are not married by then can i still cover the hospital costs with my insurance or do we have to be married first. Also does anybody know any good (low cost) family insurance that you can pay on per month and be fully covered?""

Good/cheap car insurance?

I currently have Farmers Insurance. I'm thinking about switching and trying to find a lower rate. Does anyone have positive or negative feedback about companies like Geico and Progressive? Is there much of a difference between their rates and complanies like State Farm or Farmers? Any suggestions would be helpful!

Does anyone know any cheap car insurance so i can put my 19 year old on my insurance.?

I have a 19 Year old who is really eager to drive. so ive decided to put him on my insurance but who im with at the minute i would need to get a mortgage to pay for it. Does anyone known any cheap insurance company's?? hes only got a provisional licences and hes had it for 2 and a half years.

Should I drop collision from my auto insurance this renewal?

I have a ten year old Honda Civic, just over 40,000 miles, has a crack in the driver's side rear bumper that I ignore. I have an excellent driving record, no points, am the only driver, am at that age where I'm not young enough or old enough to be considered a threat, but I live in a high rate state and money is more than tight and they just shot my house insurance through the roof, even though I never put in a claim, because, get this, there is a chance that someday we may have a hurricane! Am I being pennywise and pound foolish, or am I paying for something that won't pay off even if I need it? Thank you!""

Does my husband need his own insurance on another car?

my husband was insured on his car but its now sold and the insurance run out yesterday, he also drives his business partners car on which he is a named driver on the insurance, now his insurance on his own car has expired is he still covered to drive his partners car even tho he dosent have his own policy? im unsure how it works so just want to double check..""

""Car Insurance costs for a 17 year old in Las Vegas, Nevada?""

I will be getting my license early next year and I will be 17 years old. I am a male, and I get decent grades. Usually alway's A's and B's, maybe one C. I plan on getting an SUV, particularly a 1999 Ford Explorer with over 100,000 miles from my uncle. What would your estimate on insurance costs be? How do I apply my good grades to my insurance policy? Would it be cheaper to go on my parents account? Thank you, Damon Reis""

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

How much does insurance usually pay off if your car is deemed totaled?

Ok, so, my car incurred some damage due to the recent flood waters of hurricane Ike. A person from Safe Auto insurance company is coming out tomorrow to assess the damage. When we spoke to him over the phone, he said it sounded like our car would end up being deemed totaled. There is still amount owed on the car. If we were to pay it off tomorrow it would be $3100. The value on the car varies from tprivate party value in good condition being $3900 to retail value being $5600 in our area. We have a $500 deductible. Now, if the car is infact totaled, how does the insurance pay out?""

Insurance and financial help?

Here's the deal, I broke something that wasn't mine (on a trip) and was given a bill. I paid for it with my saving account. Why would my parents need a copy of the bill for our insurance co.""

Car insurance: keep my car if its a write off?

Hi I had a car crash other night....i wasn't at fault anyway the front bumper, bonnet, one headlight and paint above drivers wheel has taken bad damage....but im pretty sure the engine and things under the bonnet are fine....even the radiator isn't damaged....only looks slightly bent so basically im pretty sure its just cosmetic damge its a 2002 lancer ce sedan the person who hit me....her insurance company racq will be inspecting it...but i fear they will say it will be a write off i paid $7000 for the car in september 2010 and the market value for it then was $7500...how much market value will the car be now?? :/ will i get $4000-$6000 for it?? and if they pay me out do i still get to keep my wrecked vehicle or will racq keep the car? i have put so much effort into this car spent an exta $2000 on it. then some crazy b***ch runs a red light n smashes into front of my car so basically my question is....if my car is a wright off will i still get to keep the car? cos if i can i can just keep it at a mates place and buy spare bumper n bonnet off ebay""

Do you have good Car Insurance Rates?

I was just wondering if anyone out there had advice for some good car insurance rates or coverage? I found this guy who talked about car insurance coverage that was based on your driving behavior... unfortunately I don't live in the area... http://www.sodahead.com/question/271859/car-insurance-rates-based-on-behavior-do-you-have-good-car-insurance-coverage/?link=wenf_ya So you have any suggestions for a car insurance company that has good rates?

Does it hurt my credit score when I ask for quotes for auto insurance?

I just turned 25 and I'm tired of getting hosed on my premiums. I want to start shopping around but I know that the insurance companies check your credit score. What's the best way to go about getting quotes?

Car insurance?

i am looking for a decent quote for car insurance, my daughter passed her test in march and we would love to have her on our insurance but theyare asking for so much , i cannot afford it, i have a peugeot 307 o3 , my quote is 1214.85. she is going to UNI in October and really wont be using tthe car any way. any sugggestions would be really appreciated, now and again she would be using the car and she is so good , cannot afford to buy her a car of her own and the insurance would be too much anyway??""

Does the Affordable Health Care law really prevent insurance companies from denying pre-existing conditions?

They say that now, insurance companies can no longer deny insurance to people with pre -existing conditions. So what was HIPAA passed in 1996 for? This law states that insurance companies CAN NOT deny people with pre -existing conditions. The only change I see is it gets rid of the 12 month exclusion period. I had two aunts with lupus, both lived in California and had insurance, until they moved to Texas. If they could have kept their insurance, they would have, but for some odd reason liberals are against insurance across state lines. They had no problem finding insurance, they just had to be out of pocket for 12 months. HIPAA also states that if you can go six months without any medical visits, advice/procedures, insurance companies are not allowed to look further than that and must not apply the exclusion period. So did the Affordable Care Act really stop insurance companies from denying coverage for pre existing conditions, or was it ALREADY a law? http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq_consumer_hipaa.html""

Need help with car insurance questions.?

I'm getting my license in a few months and I am looking into car insurance and so forth. I live in Gulf Breeze,Florida. Taking the drivers ed. class. Make A's in school. What would be the best car insurance company to go with? The cheapest car to insure? Anything really that you know and could give me information on would be greatly appreciated. Thanks""

Why does another persons driving record affect my insurance?

sharing a residence with other people doesn't mean sharing vehicles or the responsibilities, so why should their driving record affect my insurance rates?""

Geico homeowners insurance experience?

I have been getting quotes for a new home I am in the process of purchasing. I checked Geico homeowners insurance whiich works through ASI insurance. They quoted me a very low rate. 50% then the lowest of the other companies for the same coverage. Is there something I am missing here? Does anyone have any experience with this insurance?

How much do you pay for car insurance?

How much do you pay for car insurance?

Can paying monthly for car insurance increase credit score?

I was just wondering if I pay my monthly insurance bill if my credit score would go up? I am trying to build my credit score after having a real bad score. I know that if you have a recurring payment it will increase the score, but does that include car insurance? I have the money to pay my insurance for the year all at once (birthday present) but if it helps my score to pay monthly, I'll just keep the money in my account and pay monthly. Thanks!""

Hey how much will car insurance be when i start driving at 16?

ok heres the thing,ill be 16 years old when i get my dl,our insurance is mercury,and i am gonna drive a 1991 civic hatchback,or a 1992 integra any clues o how much per month""

What are different basic insurance certification programs?

Am looking for an insurance career. Am a mom thinking of starting my career after a 6 yrs break. I want to know the basic insurance courses available. are thereany govt recognized exams and certifications available am totally new to this am newto USA so dont know much abt the programs. pls help with some info.

Home hazard insurance vs. home owners insurance?

What is the difference?

In BC how much difference in insurance costs is it based on the cost of the?

vehicle? I'm not talking about liability but collision and comprehension. I'm buying a car that costs about 10,000.00 and I am used to driving crappy cars that cost $2000.00. I'm trying calculate the difference in insurance costs. Does anybody know?""

How to get car insurance as a self dependent college student in CA?

I need to look for cheap car insurance asap, I am a resident of Callifornia, I will get my drivers licence the 20th of this month and I need the car insurance before the 24th. I figure I have exactly one day and a half to do it so I can finish my car registration before the 24th , when the past registration is due, please help me !""

Help with my car insurance!?

My car is registered to my work adress. I sometimes take trips to see my parents and my car is parked outside there home all weekend. Last weekend somebody damaged my car. Is my car still insured if the vehicle is stolen from this address? I am fully comp on my insurance. Cheers!

How can i move and keep my old states insurance??

I plan to move to Ny and i got a quote from my car insurance company and it is ridiculously high. Is there a way to keep my insurance without changing it to where i plan to move to?

Who are the best car insurance companies?

Im 17 ears of age livin in the UK. I really NEED to know te best car insurance companies. Ive not passed yet but i will have soon, il only be drivin an old punto or clio or summat. ideas please people! thanks""

Why did my car insurance rates suddenly double?

I am almost 40, have a spotless driving record, have the same car, haven't changed the policy, and haven't moved. So how can my insurance agent just up my rates all of the sudden and not give me an answer why. He just says that things change. Is there an industry standard or can agents just screw with us at will? I have been with this WELL known insurance company for 4 years. This isn't some guy working out of his garage. Any experts out there that can shed some light on this for me. I am shopping around for new insurance as i type.""

Average Insurance Price for 2-Door Car?

17 year old male.

Does a car absolutely need insurance and plates?

I'm going away to college so I will not be using my car for while. My mom wants to sell it, but I know if she does I may never get a replacement. She says that it needs insurance and a new sticker and if she doesn't get them it ruins her record or something like that, but if the car is not going to be moved at all does it really need that?""

How to get insurance in your name?

If my son obtains a loan for a truck that is for me how can I get the insurance in my name and under my own insurance.My son insurance would be too high with his age and I will be the only driver.

""On an Annual basis, how much does health insurance cost in America?

I would like to know how much the average American citizen pays in Health Insurance per year please.

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

Manahawkin New Jersey Cheap car insurance quotes zip 8050

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/affordable-insurance-wallace-nc-thomas-griffin/"