#in an attempt to earn her parents attention. shes kinda been trying to be someone else her whole life lol | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

datawyrms · 3 years

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Irresistible

For PhicPhight! On Ao3

“Earth to clueless one, walking through walls isn’t something you should be doing right now!” Sam’s hiss made him notice the fact something had grabbed his wrist.

“Right, sorry!” He said it without thinking, eyes flicking to Tucker. His other friend looked just as concerned, great. “I don’t think I got enough sleep.”

“When do you ever, dude? You didn’t even sneak out last night.” Still, his more technically inclined friend released his wrist. “Something your parents working on keeping you up?”

“You know we’re fine if you crash in our rooms.” Sam was a little less gentle. “So do that instead of whatever sleepwalking this is.”

“No! Like, I don’t remember not being able to sleep or anything?” Not that it helped, he felt like he’d been awake all night thanks to the weird dreams. “I swear I’m not being a tough guy or whatever.” He rubbed at his forehead, privately wishing his fingers could just push away the fog of exhaustion instead of just making him more aware of how sluggish he felt.

“Maybe you should crash with one of us anyway? You don’t look good.” Tucker’s frown only made the half ghost grumble. “‘Course you never look as good as me, but lately? You’re pulling the two thirds ghost look.”

“Harhar.” He shrugged the suggestion off, even if he was pretty tempted. There wasn’t anything weird in the house that he noticed, and his parents weren’t being any more anti-ghost then usual. He probably slept in a weird position or something. “I don’t think weird underwater dreams are a Fentonworks exclusive.”

“Underwater?” Sam just looked puzzled. “From what? I can’t even remember the last time any of us went swimming.”

“How should I know?” He couldn’t even say it was like flying, because it wasn’t like one of those dreams at all. Too sluggish, none of the freedom he normally felt. “I’ll just nap in math class…”

It had been a joke, really. He didn’t actually mean to sleep in math class, but his desk was cool and his head felt so heavy that he couldn’t resist nodding off. He just wished it had helped more, the bell ringing just made him want to sink into the floor and stay there. Which would probably freak everyone out. Not a good idea. At least the stern talking to he earned for ‘being disrespectful’ went right over his head with it so hazy.

“Dude. Just skip if you’re gonna sleep all day.” Tucker was poking him in the face with a fork. Rude.

“I’m not gonna sleep all day. Relax.” The tines were annoying, but doing more than blindly pushing it away from him was beyond him for the moment.

“Spacing out all day isn’t any better.” Sam’s voice wasn’t a surprise, but the fact she wasn't telling Tucker to stop poking him in the face was.

“I’m not.”

“Tucker’s been poking you for five minutes.”

“Oh.” Really? Hadn’t felt like that. Maybe he had like a ghost cold?

“Just go hide out in the attic, you obviously need it.” The poking stopped, Tucker’s voice low as if he’d leaned closer.

“Can’t miss even more stuff guys…you know that.” Even if he really, really wanted to take that offer right now.

“Well here you’ll just get the teachers angry by snoozing through class. We’ll try and see what’s messing with you after school.”

“Nothing’s messing with me! I think.” His objection wasn’t great, but Sam didn’t seem up to argue with him about it anyway.

Tucker adjusted his hat, avoiding his eyes. “Kinda hope something is, you’re kinda freaking us out.”

Well, that didn’t feel good. He scratched at the back of his head, trying to ignore how his friends kept looking at him like some kind of wounded kitten. He was fine, really! “Well uh. See you after school?” He didn’t give them time to answer before stumbling away from the table to find somewhere quiet to vanish from. He sort of hoped being in his ghost form would have shaken some of his muddled need for sleep, but being colder just made the throbbing behind his eyes feel worse. Not enough to keep him from keeping invisible and slipping into Tucker’s attic, but enough that becoming human again actually made him feel a little less ragged.

It shouldn’t be this easy to huddle in the musty old chair and drop off in the middle of the day. The guilt for doing so alone should make him twist and struggle to get comfortable, but sleep welcomed him eagerly. A part of him worried Nocturn was afoot, but it wasn’t enough to keep him awake.

“You think his parents made something that makes ghosts go dormant or something?”

“Or drain all their energy?

He kind of wanted to ignore the voices and keep sleeping, but shook himself awake. He didn’t need this much sleep, he was fine. If they were here he’d been sleeping for hours already!

“Sleeping beauty awakes.”

Danny rolled his eyes at Tucker’s attempt to pretend they hadn’t been talking about him. “You better not have kissed me.”

“If you kept sleeping for another hour he totally would have.” Sam smirk only grew when Tucker let out an offended squawk.

“Under duress!”

“The meat stench on your breath could wake the dead, so it had to be you.”

“Not dead yet, thanks…” Even if he’d been feeling tired enough to be a corpse today. “Anyone notice?”

“Told Lancer you were sick. He bought it.” Tucker shrugged, tossing a thermos between his hands. “You were really out of it huh?”

“Wait, was there an attack?”

“Nothing we couldn’t handle.” Sam snatched the thermos away, glaring at Tucker as she did so. “You stay here, we’ll check out your house.”

He’d just slept through a ghost attacking? Really? “No way, how would you explain why I’m not with you?”

“Easy. We’ll just say you are, they won’t notice.” The goth scoffed, already halfway to getting the attic door open. “If you can hide being a ghost, we can hide you not being there for an afternoon.”

She sort of had a point there. “Fine. You aren’t gonna find anything. If it was some new gadget I’d say so.”

He kind of hoped they’d prove him wrong, but the concerned and frustrated looks on their faces betrayed that there were no new plans or even an idea to what had gotten him ‘out of sorts’. It was probably just a one off thing anyway, he’d be fine. It wasn’t like his parents were bragging about a new discovery or anything. He probably wouldn’t be able to sleep since he spent so much of the day doing so, though he was still tired...he actually looked forward to dinner being over so he could snuggle under his blankets and look at the little glowing stick on stars of his ceiling before drifting off again.

Only the dream came back. A small, pitiful ghost underwater while something kept calling at him. It wasn’t warm or inviting, more like the command from someone respected. The wisp of a creature couldn’t really ignore it either, it was like a pulse that burrowed inside and thrummed until he responded. They weren’t asking for much. Just wanted him to go hunt ghosts. He always did that anyway, that part was easy.

He didn’t like how the commanding one grabbed him under the chin at his return, but couldn’t find it in him to struggle. They were stronger than he was, he was a subordinate not strong enough to challenge them. A pair, stronger and unknowable with how they’d speak in a language he didn’t understand. He could only watch, green eyes wide for any hint of anger, wanting to make himself smaller, but the creature was little more than a shadow to begin with. Hunt, bring them the prey they wanted, and they’d allow him to exist. A fair trade, really. His core trembled at the idea the clawed hands at his face could easily sink into his chest, he couldn’t risk angering them. Their red eyes saw everything, knew everything. He didn’t want to be around them, but that call was too strong. Those eyes lurked on every surface, a burning red that cut through the weight of the water that was everything as if it wasn’t even there. Their commands became a sort of second skin, but didn’t protect him from the beings deciding to come uncomfortably close, or clutch his thin limbs and take something before letting him slip back into undefined chaos again.

He preferred being told to hunt. Leaving other ghosts, the smaller ones, lesser than even the inkblot he was in the universe to be looked over and examined while he remained mostly untouched. Still wispy, mostly undefined outside of his eyes, unlike the remains of those who ‘earned’ the greater ones full attention. No time to rest, just going and going until they claimed he’d done enough.

Being dismissed wasn’t a free pass to do as he pleased though. It was still a command, something he had to obey lest they show him why they were in charge. To go in hiding, be unseen, do nothing until they wanted him to hunt again. That should be easy, simple, but it made his tail ache and his heart lurch. He didn’t only want to hunt, he wanted to do not-ghost things.

Yet the figures didn’t care what a weaker ghost wanted to do. They’d find out. He had to hide.

Danny just felt exhausted. As if the dream had made him as tired as the ghost he was in that nightmare. Which couldn’t be true, he didn’t care about stronger ghosts and what they wanted. He’d fought the king of ghosts! He had a track record of flipping off authority when it suited him better. It didn’t push away the heavy weight in his head that only begged him to go back to sleep. Maybe he really was just sick.

Sick enough to get sent right back to bed by his mom when he slumped down for breakfast, her concern nice, but also discomforting. She held her hand at his forehead for a touch too long, seemed to stare into his eyes enough to make him want to avert them. Her gentle nudging to get some more sleep nearly had him bolting up the stairs. Like he had to go that moment. Rubbing at his temples didn’t dissuade the feeling, but the pressure lifted somewhat when he was back in bed and covered in blankets. Some stupid leftover feeling from that dream or something. He wasn’t hiding.

“Danny? You okay under there?” Jazz’s question just felt like a nail to his skull, and he hoped she could see the displeasure in his eyes as he poked out from under the blankets to glare at her.

“I might be if someone didn’t wake me up.” The sunlight peeking in from the windows only soured his mood, he should have closed the blinds.

“Well, someone’s grumpy.” Either she didn’t see his annoyance, or she was deliberately ignoring it. “Mom said you don’t have a fever, but you run pretty cold...do you want something for it?”

“It’s just a headache.”

“Sure, mister ‘I ignored a bone fracture’ is crippled by a headache. Not buying it.”

“That was meant to be a secret, who snitched?” His frustration just made him feel uncomfortably warm, they knew he hated it when Jazz fussed over that stuff. Maybe he should ignore their calls for a bit.

“No one did, I actually pay attention when you start favouring your left hand.” Her frown just made him want to duck back out of sight. “You sure you don’t need anything? Anything mom and dad wouldn’t think you need?”

For a smart person, Jazz could be incredibly unsubtle. “No. I’m just worn out, or something.” He didn’t feel like coughing or sneezing, or even the gurgling discomfort of an upset stomach. It couldn’t be that serious. “You’ll be late if you keep standing there.”

“Let us know if you think of anything!” She was already halfway down the hall while saying that, not getting to see how her brother rolled his eyes and ducked back under the blankets. Her biggest weakness, other obligations. Not that it would help after school. He’d be fine by then, probably. Just some peace and quiet and he’d be back to normal. Just like he said yesterday. Only for real this time. Positive thinking, or whatever.

He did feel a bit better now that it was quiet. Still tired, but his head wasn’t pounding as much as it was whenever someone insisted on talking to him.

He figured he’d just sleep, maybe play Doomed once he was more awake. Step one, sleeping had been going well, but Mom and Dad had other plans jeopardizing that. Since when did they listen to music while they worked? With enough base that he could feel it rattling his bones no less. Covering his ears couldn’t do much about that. Trying to ignore it, or hope they were just messing with something for a minute and it would stop wasn’t getting anywhere either. So why was he just hesitating up here? They probably didn’t even notice it was so loud, or forgot he was home sick. He shook his legs to try and wake them up after he wobbled with his first steps to the door. Maybe he could- no, there wasn’t any reason to just wait.

When had they gotten so many stairs anyway? Danny found himself gripping the railing as if he was seven again, worried about slipping as if he didn’t run down them two at a time normally. He hesitated at the bottom, eyes scanning the ground floor for a sign of the scientists. The awful noise didn’t seem much louder, but he felt every beat of it as his heart seemed to slip into sync. He didn’t want to risk more stairs, he was imagining things. He opened his mouth to speak, coughing instead over how dry it felt. Sleeping with his mouth open, duh. His second attempt went better, but was not as much of a shout as he planned it to be. “Mom? Dad? Can you turn it down?”

He waited. Nothing. It must be too loud for them to hear him over the din of that deafening pulse. Keeping one ear covered the boy edged to the lab’s staircase, staring down them as if he was looking from a mountaintop, a deadly drop. He so didn’t want to go down there, to go closer to whatever the heck it was. “Dad? Mom?” He called again, trying to ignore how his voice cracked at the question. He wasn’t scared of a staircase! His heart kept pounding in his ears, knuckles going white as he kept his hands in anxious fists. Everything told him to get back, to stay away, but couldn’t stand the noise. Besides, what if it was hurting them? Maybe that’s why they didn’t answer? Worry for them helped push back the seaping cold, heading down to the lab faster than he’d managed to get down from his room.

It was brightly lit, normal but cold. He could see them, hunched over a work desk and unharmed. The glare made his eyes hurt, pausing to rub at them. They seemed blurry, even though he wasn’t that far away. “Uh, Mom, Dad? Can you turn down whatever you’re working on? I can’t sleep.” He asked, unable to convince his legs to step a bit closer, feeling too tired to make any extra effort.

“Turn down what sweetie?” She turned to face him, making his blood try to turn to ice in his veins. She sounded right, said the right thing-but he was already trying to back up the stairs. Was she taller? “Sweetie? You look pale.”

“T-The noise.” The answer sputtered from him unbidden as he tried desperately to figure out what was wrong with-with-his mom? The echoed pounding told him no, it wasn’t, but who else could it be. “I can hear it upstairs.”

She approached with a too long stride, his own legs slipping in his blind step upwards. Pain from his elbow slamming into the edge of the staircase managed to rip through him even while everything else felt slow. She only quickened towards him as he cursed, trying to crabwalk backwards from the mother-that-was-not.

“Danny! Are you okay? Let me help you.” She grabbed him around the shoulders and he froze, a rabbit being watched by a hawk. She was too real, too solid, she could easily rip through him. “Maybe we should get you to the doctor honey, there’s isn’t anything on down here.”

Should he squirm away? She was lying about the sound, it kept pounding against him like a tide and he had no way to ride the wave clutched as he was. “There is, the thing over there-” He didn’t know what it was, but he could feel it, that it was over with the other figure, the one who hadn’t come to snag an intruder.

The hand on his forehead burned, but he couldn’t flinch away. “Sweetie, I think I’d know if your Dad was playing it.” The eyes bore into him, scanning him for any slight movement. “Jack, can you start the RV? I think we should take Danny to emergency.”

The other figure moved, massive, larger than he could imagine. It might hurt him, it might hurt his mom! “S-Stay back!” He yelled, a spark of energy finding its way to him. He couldn’t let his mom get attacked by whatever this was- no wonder she seemed strange, this thing was doing it.

“Well I gotta get up the stairs Danno! You don’t look good, you just wait there.” It was speaking as it came closer, but all it did was make the bile rise in his throat as it pretended to be his father. He squirmed free to stumble forward and block this thing from his mom, eyes burning green as he tried to shove past the exhaustion and fight.

“I said STAY BACK!”

The figure paused at his shriek and wild eyed fury, face unreadable. “Danny?” His voice was low, booming in a way that started to drain all his prior hope to fight the thing off. “Madds? I don’t think emergency can fix what he’s got.”

Claws sunk into his back, his neck aching at the speed used to look back at his mother, too long fingers tight on his shoulders and keeping hims still as he stared up and felt even smaller. “You don’t think he’s possessed?” She wasn’t talking to him, and that was a relief even as his heart tried to run off without him with how fast it wanted to go.

“Y-You did something to my mom.” The accusation made it easier to keep on his feet, but didn’t lessen her grip or stop the giant from approaching. “Take your noisemaker and get out!” If it was gone, it’d be fine, they’d be safe, he was sure of it.

“Danny, that’s your dad sweetie. Not a monster.” The voice was gentle, but he could feel how the arms shook, how she increased the strength of her grip so he couldn’t pull away again. “You keep doing your best to fight that ghost off Danny, dad will help you.”

The larger figure grabbed the horrible silver device, the red gems adorning the horn’s buttons making him feel empty and helpless. “S-Stop it, you can’t let it use that mom!” He pleaded, but she didn’t release him, just pulled him closer to the smothering warmth. “Please, listen to me!” Of course she didn’t, controlled by that thing, twisted into thinking it was Dad, that it was quiet. Becoming intangible let him slip free, but he only managed two steps before the behemoth blew a long sustained note that made his skin vibrate and eyes swim. He crumpled to the cool floor, staring up at the monster in a silent horror. He couldn’t fight this thing- he’d been a fool to try and the red eyes promised retribution for his behaviour.

“Get out of my son right now, ghost.” It snarled, pointing directly at his crumpled form so he could not pretend to misunderstand. Yet he’d given an order he couldn’t follow. His core screeched in terror as his heart pounded, he couldn’t get out. Yet he had to, or this thing would devour him, shred him to nothing with nothing but sound. He could only try the closest he could get to ‘out’ of his own skin, shuddering as flesh melted to ectoplasm, trying not to scream as suit replaced skin. Not his normal transformation, this one was too slow- too confused by the order he couldn’t follow to make it an instantaneous change. He had to show he wasn’t wearing his human skin, show how completely he changed. Dying slowly, bit by bit to be someone else. Not ‘his son’. His enemy. Green eyes stared back at the red ones as he panted, unsure if the monster was pleased.

It was furious, stepping forward as he shrank back and pulled his ghostly tail around himself. “I told you to get out.”

“I can’t.” He whimpered, wanting to look away but unable to.

Another voice behind him, the mom that wasn’t spoke. Yet he didn’t understand a word of it, too terrified by the being in front of him to even process it as language.

“Don’t lie to me Phantom. Get out of my son before we tear you out.”

His name made him flinch, gloved hands clutching at his head as the impossibility of that tore at his mind. “I’m not, I swear, I can’t get out of myself!” How could he not be in his son when he was his son? He had to find a way, his slowed but still pounding heart offering some idea.

“Don’t you dare pretend to be my son, ghost.”

He wanted to explain he wasn’t pretending, that he wasn’t disobeying on purpose but the massive thing had him by the collar of his jumpsuit, leaving him busy trying to breathe enough to speak. If he wasn’t a hybrid, then maybe the monster would be satisfied? He didn’t get much time to wonder before getting tossed in a containment cell. “I’m not pretending- the accident…” he mumbled, trying to make himself look smaller as if he could hide from the hateful eyes that way. They stared at him, spoke gibberish to one another as the previous exhaustion came back with a vengeance. Keeping still felt like the best idea. When the bigger one locked eyes with him and ordered that he sleep, he did.

Dreaming and waking became one and the same. He stayed in his cage unless ordered out. They kept asking him the impossible, until he tried to rip out his heart to ‘separate’ through death. They didn’t want their son harmed- didn’t see how separating was harm, but did not destroy him for that blunder. He hunted, brought them what they wanted. They kept watching as if expecting him to disobey, to slip his leash even as he practically groveled when they approached. He hoped Mom was okay, wherever she was. Maybe Jazz could rescue her from the monster with the cornet on spring break. A ghost couldn’t. A ghost simply obeyed.

Prompt: Danny hasn't been feeling himself, blacking out and having strange dreams. Unbeknownst to him, Freakshow's staff was not the only artifact that could control ghosts. Even worse, Jack and Maddie are the ones who get their hands on that object.

#Danny Phantom #Phic Phight #phic phight 2021 #i didn't show the prompt at the start this time!#gasp #tho tbh i wrote something similar for dannymay #because ghost control is neat #and TERRIFYING!#someday one ya'll gonna shake me and go HAPPY ENDING DARN YOU

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writer-room · 3 years

Text

Siblings: Chapter Four

AO3

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3

Summary: The Bats reflect on how their thoughts about siblings have changed over the years. Some opinions stayed, others didn't.

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Tim didn’t know how to feel about being an only child.

He didn’t think about it all that often, there weren’t many kids he talked to at school who mentioned their siblings all that frequently. And, in some parts, he didn’t mind it so much.

The kids who did talk about siblings complained, whether their siblings were older or younger. There were those who said their sibling took up more of their parents attention, which was something Tim was already lacking in. Some said that they never had any time to themselves, something that Tim had an overabundance in, but still cherished. Others said that the accomplishments, and failures, of their siblings reflected onto them, making their parents expect more or less of them. Tim couldn’t afford that either. His parents already didn’t think much of him, he didn’t need it to be any less. And if they wanted more, he worried he wouldn’t be able to meet their expectations.

And yet…

Sometimes he liked the idea of someone else in that empty mansion. Someone to talk to when the rooms felt too large, when the loneliness was suffocating him. He liked the thought of sharing his recent theories, photos, and the like with someone. Wondered if he could go on for as long as he wanted without being interrupted.

Maybe they’d be someone who didn’t call him by a name that wasn’t his, then feign forgetting. Who didn’t treat his binders like they were assaulting their eyes. Who didn’t scrutinize his every movement for faking.

That’d be nice, he thinks.

But there were pros and cons, he reasons. And for all he knows, if he had a sibling, they could’ve been just like his parents. Or they could’ve been kinder. Not like he’d ever know.

He had more important things to worry about than hypotheticals and wishes.

“Before you scold me, know that I took a five hour nap earlier today and I’m only getting a snack.”

Steph and Duke blinked at him from the doorway to the kitchen, their expressions a sharp contrast between exasperated and concerned, respectively.

“Wow, five hours?” Steph snarked. “That’s a new record. Are you dying?”

“Not yet,” Tim said, opening the fridge. “Give it a few weeks and I’m sure you’ll see rumors of my tragic defeat at the hands of, I dunno, Flamingo.”

“There’s a supervillain named Flamingo?” Duke exclaimed, staring at Steph incredulously.

“Oh, yeah, it’s a whole thing.” She nodded. “He had a scuffle with Jay and his kid a while back.”

“Jason has a kid?”

“Why are you up, anyway?” Tim talked right over him. “Duke I understand, he’s the disgraced child of the sun. But you patrol at the same time as every other nocturnal person in this house.”

“Hey-”

“I actually had to pretend to have a normal sleep schedule, my mom was getting worried and I didn’t want her finding me sneaking in with my full Spoiler getup on.” Steph explained tiredly. “I’m still trying to recover.”

“Tragic,” Tim hummed, pulling out a container holding a ham sandwich.

“The only thing that's tragic is your outfit.” Steph snorted, looking him up and down.

Tim blinked, looking down at himself. His outfit consisted of a pair of knockoff Batman shorts, knee-high pastel dinosaur socks, and a long red robe that absolutely did not belong to him hanging loosely off him, exposing countless scars littering his body.

“I look awesome,” Tim said, popping the lid off the container.

“Damian’s gonna start asking what battles you got your scars from again,” Steph tutted, striding further into the kitchen with a confused Duke following her. “Know that I will not be on your side when Dick notices and gets worried.”

“I’m more worried about Dami seeing this one,” He said, brushing the robe back slightly to reveal a poorly stitched surgical scar on his upper abdomen. “Because then he’s going to ask what happened, and then I’m gonna have to tell him that's where my spleen used to be, and then he's going to be reminded that oh, yeah, his brother has a missing spleen, and then he’s going to be treating everything like its diseased-”

“Does...he keep forgetting you lost your spleen?” Duke blinked, concerned. “I feel like that’d be something you were kinda always aware of…”

“Eh, everyone's worried about a different scar whenever they see ‘em.” He shrugged, glancing down as he traced over one of the surgery scars along his chest. “Which is frankly a little rude. I earned this right to be shirt free.”

“Hell yeah you did,” Steph grinned before her eyes dropped to the sandwich Tim was attempting to eat. “Isn’t that Cullen’s?”

“He didn’t label it, therefore it’s mine.” Tim said simply.

“Harper’s gonna kill you,” Duke warned warily.

“Only if she catches me,” He said, taking a bite of the sandwich. “Why’re you guys here, anyway? Grabbing a snack?”

“Lookin’ for Babs,” Steph said, hands in her pockets. “Someone on Twitter started a war about which Batgirl was better, and Babs will probably get a kick out of being remembered as the ‘missing Batgirl.’”

“Oh she’ll be pissed about being remembered that way.” Tim agreed, shoving the rest of the sandwich in his mouth. “Babs will see it in five minutes or less, though. Swear she has a sixth sense for whenever someone mildly associated with the Bats is mentioned.” He mumbled.

“You wanna hijack the thread before she finds it?” He suggested.

“Hijack it?” Duke echoed.

“We’re gonna yell about random stuff that doesn’t contribute to the conversation until all hell breaks loose.” Steph explained, already pulling out her phone. “Tim?”

“How do you feel about discussing why the sun lightens hair, but darkens skin?” Tim suggested, leaving the container on the counter as he brushed by Steph.

“You just want to piss off someone from Metropolis.”

“It’s law as a Bat that I have to torment Superman whenever I possibly can.” Tim shrugged.

“Does that include me?” Duke blinked. “Because I personally think tormenting Superman is a bad idea.”

“Clark wouldn’t hurt a fly,”

“Yeah, but he’ll give me the face of disappointment and I don’t think I can live with that.” Duke protested.

“He can barely even manage--where are you going?” Steph looked up, only now realizing Tim was leaving the kitchen.

“I’m starting the mayhem on the big screens.” Tim grinned, looking back over his shoulder.

“Please don’t tell me he’s going to use Twitter on the bat computer,” Duke sighed.

“He’s totally going to use the bat computer,” Steph smiled, following after him. “C’mon! It’s initiation time.”

“Do you guys just call every weird thing you do initiation?” Duke called, hurrying behind them. “Because I’ve been told I’m part of an initiation five times in the last week.”

“You’re stuck in initiation until this becomes the norm,” Steph said cheerfully.

“Of course,” Duke muttered.

Tim’s robe billowed behind him like an amateur cape as he wandered towards the door leading towards the steps into the Batcave. He threw open the door, the sound of it slamming echoing and startling the bats on the ceiling.

“Jesus!”

Harper jumped from the swivel chair in front of the computer, wide-eyed as she blinked up at the trio at the top of the stairs.

“Hey, Harps,” Steph greeted, hopping onto the stairs railing and sliding down. “We’re here to cause problems on Twitter.”

“Oh, well, in that case, by all means.” Harper snarked, getting up and grandly gesturing to the countless screens. “Not like I was using it for actual work.”

“Were you using it?” Tim asked, pointedly glaring at Steph to keep his recent adventure to the kitchen quiet.

“...looking for tasers to modify count as work, right?” She said after a moment.

“Technically,” Tim nodded, ignoring Steph’s smug look that absolutely signified she was going to blackmail him later. “But you can just use Dick’s old escrima sticks. He goes through a pair every two or three weeks, but most still work pretty well, he’s just too lazy to fix them.”

“Sweet,” Harper grinned. She then paused, taking in Tim’s appearance as he slid into the seat she was previously occupying.

“Why do you look like you’re auditioning to be the pretty girl who dies in a low-budget slasher?”

“First of all, how dare you assume I wouldn’t be the first one to die for representation points,” Tim said, pointing an accusatory finger at her. “Second of all, it’s called having fashion, and also being allowed to do whatever I want.”

“You have terrible fashion sense,” Harper snorted, crossing her arms as Steph and Duke came up beside her. “But fair, I can respect that.”

“See?” Tim said, looking at Steph. “Some people can afford to not be rude.”

“Keep talking and I’ll lose more blackmail material,” Steph calmly threatened.

Harper glanced between the two, to which Tim quietly, and quickly, turned back to the screen and ignored the both of them. Harper raised a brow but didn’t comment. Tim made a mental note to sneak into one of Jason’s unused safe houses after this was over. Steph couldn’t keep quiet for the life of her.

“What are you starting, anyway?” Harper asked, crossing her arms and leaning on the back of Tim’s chair. “A sob story about the Opportunity rover?”

“Another day,” Tim promised, opening up Twitter on the countless screens. He opened another one on the other half of the computer, which Steph quickly stood at and got her own Twitter set up. “Right now, we’re questioning how the sun makes hair lighter, but skin darker. And we’re dragging Clark into it.”

“If anyone asks, I had no part in this.” Duke said, watching the two typing with a frown. “Initiation doesn't include learning how to taunt Superman, right?”

“Eh, we can settle for you becoming close with a Kryptonian,” Steph shrugged. “Dick and Bruce share Clark, Jay’s got Bizarro, Cass and I got Kara, Babs I think counts with her, too, Damian’s got Jon, and Tim has Kon.” She listed off. “Harper and Cullen took the ‘bully Superman’ route without befriending any of his family, which is a coward's way out, so you can take, I dunno, does Chris still exist in this timeline?”

“I can call in a favor from Bart to reset the timeline again so he exists.” Tim said with a casual shrug, pulling up the thread arguing about the Batgirls.

“I’m sorry, what--”

“Finding Kryptonians who aren’t already taken is hard!” Harper protested, talking over Duke. “And Clark likes you guys being friends with his family. The only issue he has is Damian getting testy and Tim making heart eyes at Kon every five minutes.”

“I do not!” Tim squawked, whirling around in the chair to glare at the traitors he dared call family. In his head. Family in his head.

“You do,” Steph and Harper chorused.

“I’ve met Kon for less than twenty minutes and even I know.” Harper added. “I’m sure Duke knew.”

“I...yeah…” Duke coughed into his fist and turned away. “But in my defense, the gossip around here is practically shouted down the halls twice a week.”

“You were subjected to Dick having another crisis about Jay dating Kory for two months, weren’t you?” Steph said, trying to hide a snicker.

“There were so many things I didn’t want to know,” Duke whispered, face horror-stricken.

“Eh, at least Jay hasn’t brought up Talia around Dami yet.” Tim shrugged. “At that point, it’s better to just vacate the premises.”

“Wait--”

“Point is, you either befriend the Kryptonian or you torment them. That’s the rules.” Tim talked over him again, scrolling down the thread and boredly looking over the arguments. “You ready, Steph?”

“As I’ll ever be,” She grinned, giving a thumbs up. “How long till Babs notices and takes this whole thing down?”

“Few more minutes, tops.” Tim shrugged, already typing. “You two wanna give any input?” He asked, glancing behind him to Harper and Duke.

“Ask if Kryptonian skin can be used as extreme sunscreen,” Harper suggested. “That’ll rile him up.”

“Now I’m just curious if it can,” Tim said, but obediently began making his comment.

“You could just...ask?” Duke tried, clearly not taking in any of what was happening.

“Nah, Kon’s half human, I don’t think it works the exact same.” Tim shook his head, not looking back. “Kara would destroy me if I tried, Bizarro has the same problem, Jon wouldn’t know, and Clark would start telling Bruce he’s worried I’m deranged again.”

“Aren’t you?” Duke raised a brow.

“Only if I feel like it,”

“And when he forgets to sleep for ninety-eight hours.” Steph spoke up.

Tim rolled his eyes, tuning out his siblings as they continued to talk. He posted his comment before sparing a peek back at them, currently throwing off ideas to their hijacking plan like it was an everyday occurrence. Well, to Steph and Harper at least. But, to Duke’s credit, he appeared to be getting more used to it on prodding from his...sisters? Hard to tell, Steph was her own classification of family member. They were some weird choices for family, at least.

Tim watched them for a moment before turning back to making another comment on the logistics of sunscreen, a smile on his face.

He couldn’t find it in him to complain. Too much, at least.

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hanbintms · 3 years

Photo

it is eye , kofi , back on your dash with my newest child ! as a reminder : i’m twenty4 , prefer she / her or they / them pronouns , and i reside in the est timezone ! the muse that i have flowing for hanbin is truly unmatched even though i literally came up with him within like . . . three hours , no kidding . that being said , he’s a brand new muse and i can’t wait to plot with everyone once again ( or for the first time ! ) i won’t talk your ears off as i know this intro might get a little long , but aside from that , can’t wait to write hanbin with ya’ll !

( SONG KANG , THIRTY , CIS MAN , HE / HIM ) * hey , i’m looking for the office of HANBIN KOO . they’re the EMPLOYEE / IN - HOUSE CHEF who’s known around the office as THE EPICURE , if that helps ? not to be a gossip , but i’ve heard that they’re AFFABLE but UNCOUTH , is that true ? i also heard that they’re the one who THREW ICED TEA AT HIS EX IN THE LOBBY . anyways , here’s the coffee they ordered .

statistics.

name : koo hanbin . nicknames : han , hannie , hanbinie , + binnie . age + date of birth : thirty + january 9th, 1991 . zodiac : capricorn . moral alignment : true neutral . gender + pronouns : cis man + he / him / his . place of birth : busan , south korea . place of residence : west village , new york city , new york . orientation : bisexual biromantic . occupation : in house chef and internet personality . nationality : korean ( holds american citizenship ) . ethnicity : korean . language(s) spoken : korean , english , conversational italian , and conversational japanese .

background.

koo hanbin’s life was relatively normal when he was born . his mom , koo seonghwa , worked as a nurse in the pediatric department of a local hospital in busan while his father , koo kyuchul , was an office worker . they weren’t the richest family , nowhere near it , but the koo family made it work . hanbin has more memories of being with his grandparents more often than his parents simply because of their demanding careers , but that’s not to say that they weren’t loving and attentive parents when they had time to be with their only son .

however , life began to change for him when was six years old . suddenly , the money began to dwindle as quickly as it was brought in . the refrigerator wasn’t full unless seonghwa’s mother would make some things for them , and kyuchul was coming home later and later . seonghwa began to work harder in an attempt to break even , but she never seemed to get her head above water . she’d confront her husband about the large sums of money that would disappear from their account , but he always blamed it on higher bills , raised rent , or sudden payments that he had to make . it never made any sense , but seonghwa started a separate account to ensure their son could at least have food on the table and clothes for school .

the next couple of years go by and the money situation worsens , with seonghwa getting to her wits end . she spends more time with hanbin at her parents’ place , sleeping with her son in her old bedroom and hoping he doesn’t hear her cry at night . she struggles to understand why her husband is keeping secrets from her , especially as they’ve been married happily for the last eleven years , but it takes some tough love from her mother to get seonghwa to pick herself up . so , she decides to confront her husband one night when she finds out his location from one of his co - workers , and she’s devastated . seonghwa finds kyuchul with a younger woman , gambling away her hard earned money . like a scene out of a drama , seonghwa kicks her husband where the sun doesn’t shine and promptly dragged the other woman outside to wack her upside the head with her purse . seonghwa was hurt , but she had finally gotten answers , and she wasn’t going to be embarrassed like this ever again .

so , seonghwa and hanbin permanently move in with her parents , and it takes some time for seonghwa to get over kyuchul . she focuses on her child and her job . from the age of ten , hanbin began spending more time with his grandparents in their small , but popular barbecue meat restaurant . when he finishes his homework , he helps his grandparents take orders , and he slowly begins to work the kitchen as he gets older . his grandparents soon leave the kitchen work to him as they get up in age , and hanbin runs the kitchen as if he’d been doing it for over twenty years . however , when he graduates from high school , hanbin decides to spread his wings . over the last twelve years or so , hanbin honed his cooking skills from his grandfather and spent most of his childhood in the kitchen , so his grandparents passed their restaurant down to seonghwa’s brother , and hanbin left for new york .

eighteen years old and with only enough money to get a small sublet , he knew he needed to find a job pronto . without formal kitchen training , hanbin would often get turned away from jobs ( because he was better than a busboy ! ) and eventually , the fates was on his side . he forced his way into the kitchen of a popular italian restaurant , immediately snagging the title of junior chef . hanbin , a fast learner with even faster knife skills , easily works his way up the ranks within the restaurant . within six years , hanbin becomes head chef and is a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen . although his income changes significantly , hanbin starts a youtube channel in hopes of sharing his love for food and cooking . within a year , his following grows substantially , and he’s approached to broaden his efforts by working at masters international .

at masters.

hanbin has been at masters for five years . he started working here after his youtube channel expanded , and he was approached to create his own cooking content for masters’ youtube channel .

basically , he has his own version of test kitchen , but it’s not really the same thing . he makes recipes for holidays , celebrations , and is constantly showing how to make traditional korean dishes ( would not be surprised if he has a ‘ cooking with my mom ! ’ type series ) .

gives food tips too like which wines pair best with certain foods or how to make the most out of your first hosting gig . probably has a video where he shares his cooking playlist because he wants you to get in the mood 😌 .

probably came up with the special lunch for Daddy Masters™ but gets ticked when he’s asked to cook it because does that man know a schedule ? probably not . [ ‘ we were on a break ! ’ specifically , hanbin2 was on his lunch break . ]

is it true that he threw an iced tea in his ex’s face ? absolutely , and he has no problem admitting it lmao . who was said ex ? i guess we’ll never know [ this a number one champion sound ] .

probably well received around the office but i wouldn’t be surprised if people disliked him . it could be his off putting persona or honestly the simple fact that he’s got a lot of sass and no ass .

headcanons.

you can read a full list of headcanons HERE ; below is an abridged version .

has a gyeongsang dialect from living in busan , and honestly . . . that’s hot . so , when he speaks in korean it’s rather strong and aggressive / pitch is vastly different from other parts of korea .

i literally have no idea how to explain his personality other than by using his moral alignment : true neutral . he’s kinda that guy who knows everything but won’t tell you that he does ? did he eavesdrop ? maybe , but he won’t tell you that . he’s largely indifferent to a lot of what happens around masters and maybe it’s because he’s been here for half a decade ; he’ll just make sure you drink water if you’re drunk and crying .

a Dog Father™ to a little re: big goldendoodle named duri . he is most definitely judging you and can often be found sunbathing in that solarium .

a very simple man when it comes to his coffee : caffè americano or an espresso macchiato please . and don’t forget the butter croissant !

mostly expressionless . . . like i really have no idea how to explain how he looks at people because i feel that stoic is too harsh of a word . if you wanna know how he feels though , he has extremely expressive eyes .

he won’t admit it but he loves hosting . office potluck ? he’s your guy . having a conference ? he’ll make your snacks . if you’re coming over he’ll make a charcuterie board and will lie saying he made it with some stuff he had on hand ( but that’s a lie , he went to the grocery store and obsessed over it for a solid three hours ) .

finds joy in the mundane . some people might think he’s weird because he loves grocery shopping , and heavily judges people’s carts because processed food ? yuck ! he won’t say that to your face though he’ll just be like ‘ are you sure you wanna buy that ? ’ and will sneakily replace your frozen pizza with pizza ingredients hehe .

that being said don’t take him grocery shopping with you NFUDNSFDS . he gets ticked about food waste , and those who don’t use reusable bags . probably has a lil garden at his place and composts ! is angry about people calling a chunk of cauliflower a steak ( in other words , don’t to it ) !

wanted connections.

DISCLAIMER : i will not be plotting anything romantic with characters under the age of twenty - five due to his age !

ONE TRUE LOVE : this is open to literally anyone , preferably like , 28 to 30 but we can talk details . truly , they’re his one true love as the title states , and i like to believe that they were a really happy couple who had a meet - cute . they moved in together and things were great , but they broke up when they felt a mutual dissolve in their relationship . that being said , they’re good friends now !

BEST FRIEND : who wouldn’t love a best friend . basically , they get along well , and they are used to sung’s non - verbal communication NVJCNXJV . it’d be really fun if they had totally different personalities but somehow they managed to click . TAKEN BY GRIFFIN OLSON .

TASTE TESTER : someone who he calls on to often try his food at the office . they possibly will appear in his videos on masters’ youtube channel , so i think a relationship based around food would be really fun ! TAKEN BY KENNEDY CRAWFORD / SORAYA HATHAWAY .

HORN DOGS ( DEROGATORY ) : i have no other name for this plot but i’m thinking two people who cannot keep their hands off of one another . i’m talking sneaky touches in the elevator , secret hook ups in the seventh floor bathroom , quick makeouts and nearly getting caught . bonus points if people around the office don’t believe they’re Banging™ because their personalities are so different .

CRUSH : also known as , someone having a crush on him , but he sees them as a friend ( or even worse , like a younger sibling ) . TAKEN BY AYLIN SAHIN .

PLATONIC SOULMATE : best friends , but make it sentimental . they are thicker than thieves , get on each other’s nerves , but they don’t know what they’d do without the other . finish each other’s sentences ( and sandwiches . sung will finish it ) and are borderline like an old married couple with the way they act .

that’s all i got now but i’ve reblogged some posts that can be found HERE and i’m down to fill any wcs that you may have as well !

#masters.intro #this is really long MVJCNXVC sorry ya'll

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peaceoutofthepieces · 3 years

Text

Sink Or Swim

tag list: @cleocc @feeling-kinda-so-so @hopelessromanticvirgo @dreamy-slytherin @adora8 @lockerfivethreefive @painfully-oblivious @poeticinemaa @jjustonemorething @sassy-sara @wedarkacademia @coolguyssyndrome @hischbabe @suckerforsobbe @tayspots @starmansander @theah0lt @zoenneforever @invisibleme @chibibanane @odi-et-amo85 @watermelonlover-123

~^~

Wednesday, 17:47

Song: Troye Sivan - for him.

“This technically wasn’t fair, because I’ve only been here a month and I had no idea if somewhere like this even existed, so you can’t judge me too harshly.”

Jens is already smiling at him, shaking his head as he bumps their shoulders together. “It’s okay. It’s hard to live up to such a perfect first date, I get it.”

Lucas huffs, but he can’t help quickly glancing around. He isn’t sure why it worries him quite so much—even if they were overheard, it can be brushed off as a joke. Jens had said it jokingly. It would be easy enough.

There is no one close enough to hear them, anyway. Not a single person, as far as Lucas can see, is paying any attention to them at all. The rather cluttered place makes it easier, creating an odd sense of privacy even with the crowd along with the strangely intimate ambience of the neon blue lights. Lucas doesn’t feel so scrutinized in this setting, where everyone is having their own fun and doing their own thing.

“Can that be considered a first date when neither of us thought it was?” Lucas questions, both dubious and hopeful.

Jens shrugs, glancing around them as well as he walks slowly side by side with Lucas. “It can be. But an arcade is also a cool first date. It’s not what I expected.”

Lucas’s lips twitch, unsure which way to turn as he looks over at him. “What did you expect?”

“I don’t know. Snuck back into your room, maybe. Some more alone time.” Jens wiggles his brows.

Lucas snorts and gives him a light shove, smiling when Jens bounces right back to his side. “That’s up to you. Like I said, I don’t know anywhere. And it was short notice.”

Jens nods, and the conversation lulls as they stop at the change machine, before Lucas begins to get nervous for a whole new reason.

“Are you disappointed?” He twists his ring—the one he’d stolen from his father’s room, just for this occasion—around his finger as Jens turns to look at him. He’s frowning, and even though Lucas is pretty sure it’s at the question itself, he can’t help but grow more jittery. There’s a sudden, uncomfortable tightness in his chest. In an attempt to make light of the question, he adds, exaggeratedly, “Did you expect to be romanced?”

Jens rolls his eyes as he fishes his money out of his pocket, but there appears to be a more reddish tinge to his cheeks. “I thought you might be the romantic type. Maybe that you’d cook us a candle-lit dinner or something.”

Lucas raises a brow. “Serious?”

His nerves have turned into surprise, and it must show in his expression, as Jens laughs upon glancing at him. “I didn’t say that’s what I wanted, though.”

“Well to be fair, I probably could manage a burger and chips. I’m guessing that’s the dinner you’d want.”

Jens turns to him after feeding his notes into the machine and wipes away a fake tear. “You already know me so well.”

Lucas hums. “I also know there’s a cafe that offers such a delicacy right down the street.”

“You, sir,” Jens points at him, bright-eyed, “know the way to my heart.”

Lucas huffs a laugh and Jens collects his change from where it has clattered into the metal pocket. His fears haven’t been curbed, but he doesn’t want to press further and ruin the experience before it has even begun. He’d thought about a handful of other options. Taking Jens to a cafe or a coffee shop, booking them into the back corner of the cinema, retreating back to his room as Jens suggested. Every idea seemed too bland or too much. He didn’t want to force them into conversation across a table. He also didn’t want to feel like he was having to hide Jens away. This had seemed, somehow, like a safe middle ground.

He’s a little worried now that he has misjudged.

“Shut down whatever’s going on in there.” Jens snaps his fingers lightly in front of his face and Lucas drags himself back to the surface. Jens’s gaze is soft with a tint of concern. Lucas’s stomach roils. “I don’t know why you chose it exactly, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great choice. In fact it’s a fucking amazing idea.”

Some of the tension seeps out of Lucas at the conviction in Jens’s tone, and he’s left with a slight smile. “Yeah?”

“Luc, it wouldn’t have mattered to me what we do. It’s a chance to be with you. I don’t care about anything else.”

Lucas feels a flush creep into his cheeks. He waits as a small group of girls pass them before nodding agreeably at Jens. “That’s kind of why I chose this. Above anything I was just really happy to be friends with you. I like how easy it is. How I can just hang out with you and have fun. And to have it just feel chill.”

Jens’s lips curve up in a soft smile, and Lucas watches the entire process. “I like when everything’s chill, too. This is very chill.”

“More your scene than a candle-lit dinner?” Lucas teases. Even though it has come to his own mind. He can’t be blamed, surely, for having a few romantic or cheesy thoughts enter his brain when it comes to Jens. It might not be his thing, but that doesn’t mean that Jens doesn’t deserve to be romanced. Lucas, really, would gladly put in the effort.

It’s possible that this is another thing that stems from his slightly-less-chill mindset.

“Definitely more my scene,” Jens laughs. “I told you, you know me well. You’re full of surprises.”

Lucas brightens, feeling another blush creep into his cheeks that he fruitlessly attempts to stave off. He clears his throat in an attempt to retain some control before saying, “I just don’t know why you changed your money. This is my organised date. I should be paying.”

Jens sets a hand on his shoulder and uses it to pull him against his side as they begin walking again, speaking slowly. “You assume we’re only playing like five games and leaving then?”

Lucas is torn between leaning into his side and subtly stepping out of his touch. He can’t quite bring himself to do either. He also can’t help but flick his gaze around as he answers with a huff. “Okay, splitting is fair. But I’m buying dinner this time.”

“You say it like I’m going to argue,” Jens snorts. He drops his arm as they reach the middle of the aisle in order to turn and face Lucas, brows raised as he takes a few step backwards. Lucas’s breath slips out of him in quiet relief and aching loss. “What are we doing first?”

Lucas smiles at him. “Your treat, you pick.”

Jens rubs his hands together, grinning like a child before leading Lucas through the aisles until he finds what he wants. They start off with a few chance games that their change is wasted on, then move on to the slightly more adventurous areas, having a few competitive shots at skee-ball and basketball. They even have a simulated bowling game, which Lucas finds only slightly easier than actual bowling. The embarrassment is worth it for Jens’s responding laugh—which he valiantly tries to bite down—and the comforting kiss he presses to his cheek after a quick glance around. It makes Lucas’s cheeks flame and leaves him shoving Jens’s face away, heart racing a mile a minute with the pure affection in his chest.

It overwhelms him enough that he has to look away, swallowing down the tumultuous mixture of excitement and nerves that seems to be warring in him. He wants to pull Jens in and give him a real kiss. He wants to get out of sight first.

“Okay, your turn to pick something, because that was truly pitiful.”

Lucas narrows his eyes at Jens, but smirks slightly as he catches sight of their next attraction.

Air hockey.

It’s free, blessedly, as most things have been; Wednesday is a surprisingly good choice for a quiet date. Jens raises his brows as Lucas moves to one end and picks up the paddle, sliding it across the table testingly. “Really?”

Lucas hums.

“What are we, twelve?”

“What’s wrong with air hockey? My mom has always loved it, and she’s far past twelve.”

Lucas isn’t sure why Jens’s expression has gone suddenly serious until he, now stationed at the opposite side, says, “You’ve never mentioned her before.”

Then Lucas realises his mistake.

“Not that you have to,” Jens backtracks quickly. “Sorry, I don’t know if it’s a sensitive subject or—“

“It’s fine,” Lucas cuts him off, even though it is. Any mention of his mother strikes a nerve, leaves a panging ache. The idea of talking about her himself—even to Jens—feels too treacherous. Yet he feels that he owes something. “It’s, uhm. It’s just more frustrating than anything, I guess. They split up. My parents, I mean. So she’s back in Utrecht.”

Jens seems to have expected something worse. The sag of his shoulders makes Lucas glad he hadn’t given him the full story. Not today. “I guess it makes even more sense why you wanna go back so badly,” Jens says softly. “Have you talked to your dad about it again?”

Lucas lets out a breath as his own shoulders slump, shaking his head. “Not yet. Things are going good, somehow, at the moment. But I think once I bring it up that will change, and...it’s been kind of nice, living in peace.”

That earns him an understanding smile. “Still, you should try. It’s important to you. He’ll see that.” Jens slots the money into the machine and adds, “If not, I’ll come break you out and we can go together.”

Lucas smiles slowly. “Someone’s a rebel now, are we?”

“Just for you,” Jens winks at him, leaving Lucas to roll his eyes in an attempt to hide his blush. Jens taps the table impatiently, nodding at him through the screen. “Come on then. Show me how it’s done.”

It’s teasing, and his scoff is equally so when Lucas shrugs off his jacket first, tying it securely around his waist. Jens’s amusement doesn’t stop him from admiring, however. Lucas notes the lingering gaze on his collar followed by the sweep down his arms to watch the movement of his hands. Lucas has begun, happily, to notice Jens’s lack of subtlety in such moments of appreciation, and it never fails to leave him grinning.

“Really?” Jens questions again. “Air hockey requires this?”

Lucas merely raises a brow, challenging. “Ah, now I understand why you were against it. You’re just scared of losing a kids’ game.”

Jens rolls his eyes in vague disagreement. “They’re all kids’ games,” he mumbles. When Lucas only continues to look at him, he waves a hand in a gesture to start.

Lucas collects the puck from the pocket on his side and drops it on the table. He aligns it carefully before leaning down, shooting one last glance at Jens before taking his shot.

It fires right into Jens’s goal before he even has a chance to move.

Jens snatches his hand away and stares at the table before lifting his eyes to Lucas in astonishment. Lucas merely offers him a smug smile.

“Okay,” Jens says slowly, while, to Lucas’s pleasure, shrugging off his own jacket. “It’s on, Van Der Heijden.”

#van der stoffels #vds #wtfock #skam nl #sink or swim #vds season fic #sos clip

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phantomphangphucker · 4 years

Text

Legless On Maim Chap. 9: Gifts Of Time, Science, And Space

ClockWork is surprisingly helpful. Danny’s surprisingly not. Jack and Maddie are surprisingly good at ethical(ish) human(ish) medicine(ish). Lewis is surprisingly not and accidentally makes a ghost. And the duo that is Venom are surprisingly... surprising.

ClockWork smiles fondly, leans over, and pats Danny’s head, “I’m perfectly sound of mind and Core, child”. Danny only groans loudly in response.

But this is enough to get Maddie and Jack to their feet and drawing weapons, though not pointing them because something’s going on here. Jazz practically bolting into the kitchen and looking like she’s ten seconds away from blocking their line of fire and screaming ‘NO!’, only encourages them to hold off more. They knew Danny was close to her, trusted her, maybe told her things they didn’t know?

The ghost turns to the pair of hunters, them floating over the table, and actually bows exaggeratedly with a cheeky smirk, “greetings, Madeline and Jackson”. Jack blinks, having not been called that since he was basically born and they had to tell the nurse what to put on his birth certificate. While the ghost looks to Lewis, “as for the who, Lewis-”, making Lewis quirk an eyebrow over them following Danny in using his last name, “-you’d be right in assuming I’m ClockWork”, looking back to the hunters, “the ghost of time, or spirit, as you’ve chosen to dub the created dead”, grinning, “we prefer neverborn ghost of course. Born ghosts prefer unlived ghost”.

Danny lifts his head off the table to the sight of his parents' open mouth gaping at ClockWork, groans and bangs his head on the table again. ClockWork patting his head with their tail before Danny lifts his head up, returns his chin to his palm and sighs, “ClockWork, there are days I really wonder if you just like making me suffer”, sighing again while his parents give him really weird looks. Danny glances from his folks worriedly to ClockWork, looking mildly unimpressed and exasperated, “you’re gonna make me explain all this, aren’t you?”.

Jack raises an eyebrow at Danny, “Danny-boy? Do you... know them?”.

Danny slips his head off his palm and lets his face bang into the table yet again, “ugh. Yes”, lifting a hand limply and gesturing at ClockWork, his face still on the table, “Clocky. Timepants. Pocket-watch. Timedaddy. Kronos, when they’re being a real old-timer stickler”, sighing, “they’re kinda my-”, he’s probably going to regret deciding that lying wasn’t worth the effort here, “-ghost parent?”.

ClockWork shifts to their elderly form, “you say that as if it is a question”.

Danny lifts up his head purely to scowl at them, “oh my Ancients”.

“Yes?”.

Danny’s scowl deepens but he doesn’t get to say anything as Maddie cuts in, managing to sound only slightly accusing, “what does he mean, ghost”, glancing at Danny and softening her expression a little, clearly silently asking him the same question but nicer.

Jack nodding stiffly, “uh, yeah”.

ClockWork says precisely nothing, instead shifting to a child and sitting on Danny’s shoulder. Danny turns his head to gape at them, “seriously?”.

Lewis chuckles, “well I certainly see where Danny gets his mischievous side now”. ClockWork was absolutely a trouble maker and prankster. And fine, if prankster god wasn’t slightly horrifying.

Resulting in Danny screwing up his face and giving Lewis the most overacted ‘you did not just say that’ face ever, that effectively conveyed ‘what the fuck is wrong with you’ in about sixty-nine different languages. ClockWork just pats Danny’s head.

Danny looks back to his folks at his mom clearing her throat. Him chuckling awkwardly, “uh”, deciding screw it, it’s way too bloody late for this to not be awkwarder than a snow bunny trying to relax in someone's venti cup filled with espresso shots. Gesturing with both hands from ClockWork to his parents, “ClockWork, my parents; not that you didn’t already know that”, gesturing from his parents back to ClockWork, “mom and dad, ClockWork; my ghostly guardian because I am a child and ghostly enough to qualify for this shit and my life is bullshit and the universe has a horrible sense of humour and yeah okay I’m exactly the kind of mess to have a technical god watching over me more literally and this probably makes, like, zero sense and I’d rather you not shoot them and I have no idea why they’re here now and I'm just going to shut up now”, clacking his teeth shut and leaning back against his chair with his arms crossed. ClockWork, now an adult, repositioning to appear to be sitting on the top of the chair back (obviously they are actually floating though).

Jack and Maddie blink, exchange a Look, and go back to eyeing ClockWork -who’s suddenly a child again- warily; though they look less like they’re trying to restrain hostility and more simply cautious. Maddie sitting down slowly and stiffly, effectively pulling Jack to sit down as well, “explain”, her then glaring/squinting at the ghost, “why are you here”. Both of those were technically supposed to be questions but that didn’t sound even slightly like questions.

Danny seriously resists saying ‘I kinda just did’ both because that wouldn’t do him any good here and because she’s asking to explain the explanation. Jazz gives him an encouraging nudge as she relaxes and sits down herself; now sure her parents aren’t going to attempt to attack.

Danny swallows, “um, like I said. Ghostly parent. Guardian. Mentor. Teacher. Guide”, oh he is so never going to hear the end of this. Of him having a Guardian and being taught ghost things, and not telling his ghost crazed ectologist/hunter parents. Never. But his parents, or his mom at least, seemed to understand him not being super open with his ghostly shit. With him hiding it. So maybe. Just maybe. They’ll get him hiding this too. Maybe. Hopefully. Probably not. Big difference between ‘my body does weird ghost shit’ and ‘I hang out with literal ghosts’. Massive fucking difference. Huge. And ClockWork’s over here being their typical calm collected self. Jerk. Though that was probably a way of saying ‘this is fine and will be fine’; not gonna stop Danny from being a paranoid little bitch. Danny breaks the silence by reopening his mouth, looking to his mom, “um. They’re who I meant by that wise ‘friend’ I mentioned”.

Maddie squints at him a little before nodding and glancing back to the ghost. So this ghost -spirit or ‘neverborn’?- loved the living? That was... arguably good... okay. But she’s still not sure what’s even going on here. How can he ‘have a ghost parent’? That makes no sense. And pointing that out just effectively made Danny repeat himself, so obviously this didn’t cross his mind as ‘not normal’. She’s pretty damn certain a ghost wasn’t present when she gave birth to him, and carried him, and literally everything else. And he wasn’t born like this, born with a Core and ectoplasm. She would have noticed something like that. So what really is this ClockWork to him? Or how do they have the familial relationship Danny’s saying they do. Again Danny didn’t find this odd, so do ghosts just... get assigned a mentor ghost? That makes zero sense. Ghosts knew how to be ghosts from the get-go... right? But also, what the heck was some ghost -maybe ‘needed’ or not- teaching her son?

Jack tilts his head, watching the currently child-like ghost give Danny a little head pat. His son glancing up with the typical scowl he gave to the two of them for doing that or ruffling his hair, even looking a bit fond? And that wasn’t something that could really be faked. So close for sure. His boy was close with a ghost! What does he even do with this? Is it good? Bad? Kinda cool? If ghostie really was friendly -huh, friendly ghost, who would have thought? Danny apparently- then it was cool. The things he could learn! But how? “How are you related?”, Jack shakes his head, “wait no, they said created so no relatives at all”. Then squinting and becoming just a little giddy. Wait! They confirmed a theory! Or more so Dan’s theory. Blurting out, “you’re needed!”, pausing, right no assumptions anymore, “or are you?”.

ClockWork grins, “ghost of time. The time stream would quite effectively collapse without me”. A truly unfortunate truth. ClockWork lets them sit on that for a beat before adding, “of course I am an unfade so that hardly matters”.

Jack and Maddie blink, “an ’unfade’”, attempting to take this in stride.

“Indestructible. Immortal. I am an endless thing. I have always been and will always be”.

Jazz decides now would be a good point to interject, before her parents start building a questionnaire, “alright, I’m sure you didn’t show up to answer questions. So why are you here and could it have waited till after everyone had slept?”, Danny especially needed all the sleep he could muster.

ClockWork grins, “they asked to meet a good ghost, so I decided to let them. Though I can be more of a neutral when it comes to the universe or existence itself”. Ultimately, seeking to extend the existence of the universe and maintain the stability of time, were ‘good’ goals and jobs.

Lewis can’t help but chuckle, that was so painfully mundane but with complete chaos as a result. Which gets Maddie’s attention on him, “you are... very calm”. Maddie officially feels like Dan might have a better disposition for her job than she does.

Danny grumbles, “tell me about it”, because seriously, come on! Looking to ClockWork, “for the love of everything, tell me you had more reason than that?”.

Jazz butting in again, “no. No more questions. You all need to go to bed. And I need to go back to it”. Earning some neck rubbing from Danny. Maddie and Jack just gesture -with both hands- at ClockWork like that is reason enough for them not to. Jazz stands up, hands on her hips, “no. Bed. Now”.

ClockWork smirks and closes their eyes slightly, “I’ll make sure to tuck Daniel in then”. Making both parents immediately exclaim, “no! You’re a stranger to us! And a ghost!”. Which Danny glares at them over a little.

Jazz throws up her hands, “why do I try”, and attempts to smack ClockWork over the head, “you’re as bad as Danny”, blinking at her hand, which of course had just phased through ClockWork.

Danny snorts, “why did you think that would work? They see the future”.

Jazz points at him, “proof we need sleep”.

Jack lifts up a finger and opens his mouth, though closing his mouth at getting a harsh glare from his daughter. ClockWork answer his question anyway, no clue how the ghost knew what it was though, “the time stream flows trough my Core, to be without me would be rather similar to brewing coffee without the filter and picking your beans blindly”.

Lewis mutters, “the horror”, sarcastically. While ClockWork continues, “the universe would get nothing short of a mess and would likely throw out the end result with haste. And Madeline? I have in fact been watching over him since before you had been born yourself”, looking with an almost mean smirk to Jazz, “preventing your parents from speaking will not alter the fact that they did speak in another time”.

Jack is almost smiling over the new info and Maddie just looks incredibly confused. While Jazz sighs and rubs her temples, “at the very least Danny should sleep. If you’re a ‘parent’ then shouldn’t you be focused on his heath?”.

ClockWork smirks more, “and I am. After all, there are some timely issues. What better to empower timing mechanisms than-”, shifting to an elder, “-old man time, the being that empowers time itself”. Danny puts a hand over his mouth and chuckles; not even attempting to figure out what ClockWork means.

Lewis quirks an eyebrow, “you’re referring to the timer I’m guessing? I find it interesting that a ghost would be offering to help ghost hunters with their tech. Which is usually used for ghost hunting”. This gets literally everyone else to raise their eyebrows.

ClockWork shrugs very subtly, “they could hardly do me harm, and ghost hunting is far from the purpose here”, grinning and side-eyeing Danny, “put that tail to good use, people do tend to keep around that which is useful”.

Danny’s pretty sure he’s the only one who got that. ClockWork absolutely was enjoying his effectively full-time tail. Cheeky bastard. Rolling his eyes a little bit with a small smile at ClockWork poking his tail with theirs; letting his tail uncoil from the chair and effectively wind around and fiddle with ClockWork’s a little. Then scowling at Jazz for giggling at him.

Jack is struggling not to grin, only even trying not to due to this being a ghosts that deserves suspicion. Maddie furrows her eyebrows, “‘help with the timer’?”, then sounding very suspicious, “how?”, then glancing at Danny’s tail basically wrapped around the base of ClockWork’s, whose tail tip is patting his. The ghost seemed to imply It-they wanted him to keep the tail; not that there was another option. But why? Though come to think of it, she hadn’t seen them with legs at all, “is your tail constant?”.

Danny honestly feels quite pleased with himself and proud of his mom over her being kinda freindlyish. Danny deciding to be forthcoming to at least attempt to make up for never telling his folks about his Guardian; leaning forward, “yup”. ClockWork adding, “it is a common theme for Neverborn’s, yes”. Which Danny nods over. Nocturne, UnderGrowth, Vortex, the Observants, Remi, Silver; none of them had legs. Pandora and FrightKnight were two exceptions he knew of though.

ClockWork nods to themselves when Maddie hums acceptingly and thoughtfully, rightfully coming to the conclusion that they liked Daniel being similar to them; though she blames at least some of Daniel’s tolerance of his tail on them, which wasn't wholly wrong. “And Lewis’s guess is once again, correct. As is your guess that creating a stronger timer is simply beyond your capabilities”.

Maddie can’t help scowling at that while Jack pipes up, “I’m sure we could with enough resources”, managing to keep his tone down.

Jazz leans her head on the table and sighs. She’s staying awake at this point to keep an eye on her parents.

ClockWork chuckles faintly, “for what you seek to achieve, you would need-”, digging in their pocket, “-one of these”, and holds up the time medallion. ClockWork wastes no time in explaining away the twos confusion, “this is a time medallion. Only I can create them. They can allow the wearer exclusion from time or the manipulation of it. To travel to points in time or alter the flow of time, if settings are right. Only I can alter their settings. Though I can also grant another the ability to. If fused to a being they could even give a slight awareness of the future”, grinning almost meanly, “something that can entirely stop the flow of time around a being can certainly keep up with your creation”. ClockWork pockets the medallion while the three adults all gape slightly, ClockWork pulling out their own little timer device -that effectively looked like a silver time medallion with clock hands for adjustment nobs in the centre, all inside a dark gray circle- and holds it out to Jack; the more likely one take it. Unsurprised at Maddie instantly snatching it right out of Jack's hands, curious and mistrustful.

Maddie flips it over, noting that it was already completely compatible and based on the alignments was designed for waist placement; slightly to the right though. Glancing back at the ghost and noting their cloak clasp was a fair bit on the right, they were setting up the CyberSteps to copy them; and she’s gonna bet her and Jack can’t modify this. But no way in Hell were they sticking something that was a near unknown on their boy, especially if it was designed by a ghost; trying out Danny’s ghost-friendly approach or not. But if this was genuine and this ghost right, then they effectively gave Danny back functioning ‘legs’. She should probably thank them, giving a very very very awkward, “thank...you?”.

Danny blinks, goes slack-jawed, and leans back against his chair, mumbling, “my folks just thanked a ghost". Sure it was ClockWork but still. He’s made way more headway than he thought or his folks were trying really hard to chill the ghost hate. Sharing a surprised look with Jazz, also gives him a little wide-eyed encouraging smile.

ClockWork smirks and leans towards Danny’s ear, “I also have something of a job for you”.

Danny muttering while side-eyeing them, “uh, does it involve shooting you”, because seriously ClockWork. Thanks but, fuck.

“You’re welcome to try, Daniel”. Making Danny rolls his eyes, while ClockWork gives him another head pat before simply disappearing; leaving slightly awkward silence in their wake.

Jazz, surprisingly, is the one to break it. Pushing herself to stand up and asking in a way that sounds more like a command, “so can we go to bed now?”.

Lewis chuckles into his hand, “do you really think they will with that”, and points at the CW timer. The parents looking to it, Maddie biting her lip while Jack just looks excited; clearly tired though.

Jazz puts her hands on her hips and levels them with a glare, “that is a complete unknown to you. Do you seriously think you should be messing with that without sleeping?”, them inventing/working on sleep deprivation lead to either really weird inventions or a lot of destruction. And that was a gift (technically) from ClockWork, in two years she only knows of one thing ClockWork’s gifted Danny; a necklace with a stylised ‘CW’ in silver. Danny absolutely will be possessive and territorial -he’d honestly probably try snatching it from them if he wasn’t sleep-deprived himself- of it. So no way he’d sleep if they stayed up tinkering with it.

Jazz decides to take the initiative when her parents nod. Her pulling Lewis to stand up and pointing at his face, “you, make sure Danny sleeps. Then sleep yourself”. Danny throws a pouty look at her so she glares are him before making shooing motions at Lewis.

Lewis shakes his head with a chuckle and waves for Danny to follow, “I guess the sister hath spoken”, earning a round of weak laughs. Danny does actually float after him though, glancing over his shoulder at his folks and eyeballing the CW timer.

Lewis speaking up again at Danny’s door, “working legs, no revealing your legs, ghost bonding; guess your life’s glass is looking pretty half full”.

Danny pauses and blinks at him, before smirking weakly, “I’m pretty sure the entire bloody glass got ground into my fucking eyeballs when I fucking died”. Lewis doesn’t really have a response for that other than a chuckle, because yeah Danny’s luck was pretty bad.

Jazz nods curtly at the stairs before rounding on her parents, pointing at the CW timer, “no taking that apart, I don’t even want to know what might happen”, sighing, “and that’s a gift from ClockWork. I think it’s obvious Danny’s close with them, so think how hurt he would probably be if you wrecked it”. She decides she made the right call at both grimacing a little.

Maddie gets up, cradling the contraption cautiously, and nods, “right, thanks Jazz honey. I’m... going to put it in containment though”. Jack scurrying after her as she heads down to the lab. Jazz standing in the lab doorway, arms crossed, and making it very clear she will try to physically drag them to bed.

Maddie, unsurprisingly, doesn’t sleep very long; waking around nine. She spends about half an hour making coffee and sipping it at the table, getting a little surprised when Lewis comes down the stairs and pours himself a cup.

Lewis answers her question before she even asks it, “I’m used to working late shifts and morning shifts back to back. The occasional emergency call”. One needed to be bendable with their sleep schedule to be in the medical field. Another reason Danny was well suited. Sitting, “I take it you don’t sleep well on an active mind?”.

Maddie sighs and shakes her head, “no. Especially with a ghost being able to get into the house without any warnings or defences going off. Things put in place purely to prevent that”.

Lewis chuckles, yeah he could understand why she might have a few issues with that. “That ghost seemed more akin to a god. So I doubt defences really matter”.

Maddie sighs again, that in itself was an issue. She had managed to scan the ecto-signature ClockWork left behind, twenty-eight. Twenty-eight. Pariah had been a twenty-five. This ghost was the strongest they’d ever encountered, almost the strongest possible. And had some kind of positive relation with her son. “ClockWork scans at twenty-eight, so you’re not wrong”.

Lewis quirks an inquisitive eyebrow, “Danny might have mentioned the ecto-scale but I can’t say I know what each level means”. Twenty-eight was obviously incredibly strong though.

Maddie nods, “it doesn't mean much, but it tells us how a ghost compares to others. It goes up in increments. Basically, a two is as strong as a one and a half. A three is as strong as two twos. A four is as strong as two threes and a half. And so on. So the higher the numbers the bigger the gap. So a twenty-eight would be fourteen and a half times as strong as a twenty-seven”, sighing, “a thirty though doesn’t follow the algorithm, a thirty is twenty times as strong as a twenty-nine. I’m not sure why Danny changed it for that level, but he’s got a good sense about more tech or biological ghost things”. Which just makes her wonder why the Hell they never listened to him before on the things that didn’t line up with their theories. But then again, Danny’s theory on power levels had been proven in the field. They hadn’t believed him at first because the algorithm he made was frankly terrifying. Sure the fact that Danny’s scale accounted for things like general ectoplasm (one), ghost plants (two), and whisps (three); helped but still. Technus was a seven and he could be tricky to beat when he didn’t sabotage himself. (Trying to use ‘proper pronouns’ for ghosts, which Danny always seemed to preach, was... strange). And this ClockWork was effectively six-hundred-and-twenty-two-thousand times stronger. Course ectoplasmic power only meant so much, Technus was generally easy to defeat; very easy.

Maddie speaks back up at Lewis’s impressed whistle, “what really matters is the class of a ghost. Class takes into account powers, enhancements, and restrictions. One through six. A six could effectively end the world easily”, furrowing her eyebrows, “ClockWork’s a five, which seems strange”, that kind of power, time control and omniscience, seemed practically like ultimate power. What was holding them back? Or maybe they lacked powers other ghosts had?

Lewis chuckles, nods, and sips at his cup. That kind of power was pretty nuts, and man was he glad Eddie just dealt with regular ol’ humans. No gods, no alternate dimensions, no royalty, no symbiote hunters. Danny was in a whole nother league. But at least Danny’s enemies kinda respected him or straight up seemingly liked him. And he had powerful allies. Anne was right though, Eddie will be so severely out of his depth, Danny very much being a teen will help with that though.

Maddie speaks up again, breaking the slightly comfortable silence, “I wonder if Danny knows any other ghosts personally”, it would seem logical that he did. Wouldn’t make sense to just be friends, family?, with one powerful one. People don’t start out befriending the top dogs, they start at the bottom. And she’ll admit to being suspicious that Danny might have befriended some of the local ghosts. Had worried his ‘too friendly’ attitude about ghosts had extended to actually being friendly. That worry was apparently founded, but... it really was seeming like Danny was right which meant that this wasn’t exactly bad. Just... concerning. And Danny hiding his friend(s), family?, from her, from Jack, was honestly more upsetting at this point. Even if she understands his reasoning. She had hid her relationship with Jack from her parents for somewhat similar reasons after all.

Lewis pointedly looks around and covers his mouth with the cup, he’s not saying shit. Though there’s really no point in saying ‘no’.

Maddie glances at him a couple of times and squints, catching him clearly trying to restrain a small smile, “he does, doesn’t he”, that was definitely not a question.

Lewis makes eye contact and smirks in genuine, “well, at least one other has checked up on him to my knowledge. And that Skulker one has approached me about his legs; Danny did say he makes good pie too”. Sure, it was for ‘his pelt’ but he’d bet money that ghost was really fond of Danny.

The first thing that goes through Maddie’s head is that one is a known threat, a ‘villain’ ghost, why and how had Danny made ‘friends’ with It- him? The second thing is... wait he bakes? And it’s edible? But ghosts don’t eat, right?

Lewis keeps going, “Skulker also seems to like the idea of Danny having my job, though that might have encouraged him to teach Danny knife skills or something. And the other ghost, Johnny I’m pretty sure, threatened me because he thought I might be hurting him”, might as well hammer home that ghosts at least kinda cared about Danny. Would help with the whole ‘getting them to not hate ghosts or think they’re evil post-human manifestations’ thing.

Maddie blinks and stares at Lewis a bit, what? “That... doesn’t make sense”. The biker was another ‘villain’ ghost. Less ‘villain’ more ‘delinquent’, but tried to use her little girl so he was pure evil to Maddie. And didn’t Danny punch It-him? They’re not friends, that wouldn’t make sense. So why would he be attempting to protect Danny? And she still couldn’t picture that metal ghost baking anything. Unless... going a little wide-eyed, “teaching. Feeding. Protecting”, shaking her head a little and sounding almost awed, “they view him as one of them... but weak... and small”, blinking and muttering down at the table, “like a cat taking in a baby squirrel”. Or like Tarzan or a human raised by wolves. Her awe getting an edge of horror because just what were these ghosts teaching her baby boy?

Lewis decides against saying anything, because Danny got the shit kicked out of him by these ghosts. He can’t point that out without being seriously suspicious. And it would be pretty pointless.

Danny sticks his head in the kitchen at that very moment, likely having heard Maddie’s entire comment. Okay, Lewis is sure he did based off of looking like he’s trying to force his smile to not look completely and utterly nervous; the little ‘shut the fuck up, what were you thinking’ look he throws Lewis’s way really emphasises that. Maddie looking to him still wide-eyed probably doesn’t help the kids nerves.

Danny gives a little stiff wave, which he’s hoping is blamed on the restrictive braces, as he goes to start up (much stronger)coffee for himself. Part of him is glad she gets up to try and help after a beat -trying to pick up cups with finger braces was not easy okay?- but also, he can do it himself thank you very much. “I’m fine”.

Maddie pulls her hands back, holding them to her chest, “right right”, that ghostly pride thing. Instead awkwardly watching him fiddle with the machine. Danny almost wants to beg her to stop hovering.

Danny clutches his cup like it’ll give him life as he sits down, tail curling up and tip flicking in the air, “so... dad still sleeping?”.

Maddie nodding and giving an awkward, “yup”. As silence descends, only broken up by the occasional sipping sound from Danny.

Danny practically launches himself out of his seat when Tucker effectively kicks in the door, “dude, weekend time so you know I ain’t leaving your as... butt alone”, and waves innocently at Maddie; while Danny reacquaints himself with his chair.

Danny chuckles faintly, “no Sam?”, he knew Valerie was working this weekend.

Tucker quirks an eyebrow at him as he plants himself at the table, totally obvious to Mrs. Fenton’s tension, “I’m surprised you don’t know? Her mom dragged her off to a gala”. Danny pulls out his phone and cringes at the wall of ranting all caps in the chat.

Maddie sighs and shakes her head, using this a conversational life raft, “I’ll make her cookies”, why baking never came to life but cooking usually did, she’s not sure she’ll ever know. Well there was that one time with muffins, but that was intentional.

Danny goes wide-eyed and pokes Lewis with his tail, “you. You owe Tuck food. Bake shit”. Lewis raises disbelieving eyebrows at him so Danny explains, “well technically I owe him your baking. Tomato potato”.

Lewis chuckles with a head shake and gets up, “I guess I’ll see what there is to work with here”. Maddie getting up to show him were everything was; still feeling stiff and a little freaked.

Tucker grins, free food! “Sweet!”, turning to Danny, “so hurry up and get leggy again. Vampire Dad two is coming out, like, now”.

Danny rolls his eyes and rubs at his neck, “eh, that might happen sooner rather than later”, glancing at his moms back as she stiffens a little and pulls out a square pan rather jerkily, “CW showed up and lent a hand”.

Tucker’s eyebrows shoot up, he glances at Maddie quickly, “shit seriously?”. Danny nods and nods again when Tucker side-eyes his mom, clearly asking if she saw them. Tucker shakes his head, “they’re as nuts and reckless as you. If that even applies to them”. Danny can’t help chuckling at that ’cause it wasn't really either when you knew the outcome beforehand.

Lewis mutters, “yeah sure fine, I got this”, as he looks over ingredients while Maddie turns to face the boys.

“About that... how do you know them? And the... family thing?”.

Just as Danny’s opening his mouth to answer Jack barges in, looking drastically more awake than everyone else, “without me, Mads?”. Making her blush.

Tucker pats Danny on the shoulder supportively, that just gets Mrs. Fenton’s attention on him though, “you know don’t you?”.

Tucker shrugs with very intentional nonchalance, “I doubt there’s anything me and Sam don’t know about Danny-dude”.

Maddie nods, resisting sighing. She’s not exactly surprised. A little bothered? Yes. But not surprised. Those three were close, closer than she thought friends could be. She hadn’t noticed until Danny seemingly knew Sam’s bra size like it wasn’t odd for him to know that. And she’s sure she’s overheard that Sam pays for Tucker’s replacement glances; she’s not sure how they get broken so much. Shaking her head, not important right now, “well I guess I’m glad you’re close then”, looking to Danny, “so?”. While Jack sits down looking a little over-eager.

Danny gives Tucker a nearly pleading ‘help?’ look, so he gives him another pat, “all you man, your parents”, shrugging, “and it’s not like anyone other than you knows much about them. In fact-”, getting up, “-I think I’ll go help Lewis”. Danny whips Tucker’s ankle with his tail for that, nearly making the boy face-plant. Tucker mumbling sarcastically, “you'll regret that one day when I’m mayor”.

Danny whispers in ghosts with a smirk, “p͘͡ri͝n̡̛c̢͘e͜͝”, knowing Tucker knows exactly what he said; regardless of not knowing the language. Then clearing his throat and looking to his folks, “heh”, shaking his head, “uh, anyways. I, uh, meet them when they kinda savedallourlives”, chuckling awkwardly and shaking off the unpleasant memories, he is not getting into that with his folks, “But they, well, broke the law? in the way they helped, so that pretty much made me their responsibility. And they’re, uh, how I knew the impurity in Vlad’s ecto-acne. So kinda saved him too”.

Maddie cuts in before he can continue, “so this ‘ghost parent’ thing wasn’t really intentional or... willing?”. Making Jack frown.

Danny grimaces, “not really? ClockWork knew what would happen, explicitly. So willing and wanted there. They could have helped in a different way. So, uh, also technically intentional. And for me?”, shrugging, “I didn’t know Guardians were a thing so really couldn’t be intentional. I guess technically not willing either but-”, smiling sheepishly, “-who the Hell gets to pick their family?”, shrugging, “and I like them”.

Jack can’t help but chuckle at that. Danny-boy did have a point there. He’s fairly sure almost no one would willingly chose them as parents. And wow, he effectively had ghost family! How weird was that?! ‘Cause Danny’s family meant Jack’s family. Period. And any ghost who saved his boy -and apparently his entire family and Vladdie!- certainly couldn’t be evil and deserved some trust. Though he can’t help worrying that this ghost wanted to be Danny’s ‘guardian’ intentionally for bad reasons. He’s sure Mads is worried about that too. “But son, there’s something I don’t get? Why? Why would they want this? Want you? Heck! Why and how is ghost adoption even a thing?”.

Maddie nods at Jack before looking to Danny and frowning a little, “you’re human; even if slightly ghostly. The child of ghost hunters; even if you’re probably not going to be one yourself. And they’re, well, ridiculously strong; wouldn’t it make more sense to want a, how do I put this? strong kid?”, furrowing her brows and knowing Danny’s probably not going to take this well, “it’s not because of us being hunters is it? Because sweetie, I very well could see a ghost trying to get to us through you and Jazz”.

Tucker, next to Lewis, having just nodded that ‘yes, adding fudge is a good idea’, very heavily cringes. Even him and Sam knew better than to question ClockWork’s motives especially regarding their fondness for Danny. That was a good way to get a pissed off Danny. Or in Tucker’s case, shot in the face -or the crotch, that one notable time- with an ecto-beam. He does not recommend.

Danny, surprising no one, scowls and actually snaps with a bit of a snarl and power behind it, “no”, making everyone jerk a little. Maddie and Jack going a little wide-eyed, and Tucker cringing more. While Danny continues, tail actively lashing at the air aggressively and occasionally constricting around the chair legs hard enough to make creaking sounds, “you have nothing to do with it. Nothing. So don’t go there”, sighing and pinching the bridge of his nose and grumbling angrily in ghost, “sh̶͡ơ̶u̸̢͡l̴d̡͝ h҉͞av͢͠e ̷f̨įgu̢r̷͜͝ęd.̴͜ ̴̶O͠f̶͢ ̸͢fuc͘k̨̧i͞n̷̛͢g̸̕͠ c͏o̸u͢r҉se͞.̧̡ ̨G̶̢hos̷t̨s̸͞ ͟͡s̕t͢ill ̢̢c͘͟͝a̢͘n’̷͡t ͘͟b͡e ̛tru̷̧̧st̴ed̶̕ ̢͝hų̧h̴.̨ ̴F̕͜u͜҉c͝ķ͟i͡n̷̕g̴ ͘͞͞A͟͠n͝c̕͝i̸̵e҉͞n̨͜҉t͘s̕”.

ClockWork picks that very moment to appear out of thin air, smacking Danny (somewhat gently)on the head with their staff, “they mean nothing by it. One can hardly expect the uninformed to understand. So explain”, and promptly disappears... again; leaving everyone (but Danny) gaping.

Danny makes some kind of whiney noise, puts both his hands over his head, and turns to exaggeratedly pout at the air where ClockWork had been.

Tucker wheezes and slowly crumples to the floor, “you’ve been told! Ha!”.

Danny turns to scowl at him, hands still on his head, “shut it, Tuck”. Dropping his hands and looking to his still gaping parents, “so... that just happened”.

Lewis chuckles faintly at that, “kid, that was worse than the time a friend of mine literally got shot, just took a sip of some fruity drink and asked the guy how the weather was”.

“Well if there was a tornado, that would be logical”.

Lewis actually turns around and points the batter spoon at him, “no. No it was not. Now stop being a little shit and talk to your parents before they blow a gasket”.

Danny rubs his neck awkwardly and looks to his folks, “um... sorry for going a bit... ballistic there. But, uh, I don’t take well to that. So just don't, okay? Their intentions are good, let’s just leave it at that”.

Jack and Maddie make a few unusual faces before nodding a bit. Jack clearing his throat, “alright, son. Does... that happen a lot?”, and nocks on his head for emphasis.

Tucker lays on the ground laughing, making Danny roll his eyes but losing a fair bit of tension. Danny grumbling petulantly, “only when I’m being stupid...”, smirking slightly, “or trying to use them for a prank”.

Lewis smirks himself and speaks while spreading batter, “so all the time?”. Danny turns his head and gives the back of Lewis’s head an overacted scowl. Lewis only smirks more over that.

Maddie clears her throat, recapturing Danny’s attention. Danny chuckles awkwardly, “right, explaining”, furrowing his eyebrows and sounding sheepish, “what were the questions again?”.

Jack chuckles a little at that while Maddie smiles and answers, “just why would a ghost adopt, adopt you specifically. Would want to”.

Danny nods, “right. I guess that might be confusing”, seeing as they didn’t know he was a ghost. And huh, the whole concept of Guardians was probably foreign to them. Probably should have realised that sooner.

Lewis snorts, “‘might’?”.

Danny turns to him, “you’re Mr. Snark today, huh?”.

Lewis shrugs, “eh, friends didn’t react to the fact that I’m making brownies”, turning and pointing at Danny, “that’s concerning”, before turning back around to slide the pan into the oven.

Danny blinks, right Vee was chocolate crazy. Really chocolate crazy. “Fair”, Far be it for him to harp on someone for being paranoid and worried over someone’s safety. Then smirking a little, “though if they’re hungry they can just get a bowl of Symbi-oats”, he can read a tired sigh/groan in Lewis’s body language.

“They’re not huge fans of cereal. They eat a lot of Chinese though”.

Danny snorts, “everyone already knows they love rawmen, Lewis”, successfully getting the guy to choke.

Danny promptly looks back to his folks and rubs his neck, “it would be easier to just, well, explain Guardianship in general?”, continuing when they both nod acceptingly, “cool, um okay. Well, so like, when ghosts form they form all their ectoplasm and Core yeah? But, like, there are adult ghosts and child ghosts. Dead ghosts always start out as child ghosts whether they died a child or not. Ditto for born ghosts”, shrugging awkwardly, “created’s are a toss-up”, shaking his head, “anyway. Child ghosts have... immature I guess? Cores. They’re weaker, less powers, less stable, more unruly and reckless; lots of things. Usually kinda sucky at being a ghost and look more like when they were alive. Adult ghosts are just instinctively or naturally a bit protective or teachery towards child ghosts”, shrugging, “kinda like humans and babies really“.

Jack and Maddie blink, Maddie opens and closes her mouth a few times so Danny pauses to let her think. Her eventually speaking up, “so ghosts.... collectively care for younger ones”, and blinks in shock a bit more because that is so far out of alignment with what they thought of ghosts.

Danny wiggles his hand in the air, “ehhhhhh, I wouldn’t go that far. Child ghosts are the most likely to get, well, murdered”.

“Oh”.

Danny nods, “yeah”, clearing his throat, “most child ghosts will get taken in or under the wing of or whatever; by an adult they impress or that likes them or is just similar to them or maybe related in life”, shrugging, “eh, it varies”.

Jack butts in at that, “what one’s ClockWork?”.

Danny shrugs and rubs his neck, “the, uh, situation with us is a little, different”, straightening up, “they literally broke time and temporal laws for me. That’s kinda super serious. Though they did that because they like me and I impressed them. Some other things”.

Maddie and Jack decide against pressing him, since he didn’t exactly react well to Maddie questioning ClockWork’s motives before. Instead Maddie asks, “okay, but generally, why would a ghost do this? It just- I guess it just doesn’t make sense to us, sweetie”.

Danny bites back muttering about how that’s because of their bigoted opinions on ghosts, thinking they’re unfeeling uncaring evil chaos-loving monsters. Though the chaos-loving part was true. Monster was debatable. “Because they want an apprentice, or heir, or are lonely, or just genuinely care. Though I guess it does benefit the adult ghost some”, shrugging, “makes both adult and child stronger. If the child accomplishes lots, it makes them look good, y’ know like it does with human parents”.

Maddie nods, “for power I can understand”, making Danny roll his eyes a little. Which really just confirms that he still thought they were overly anti-ghost.

“Yeah well, it’s not much so it would be stupid to become someone’s Guardian purely for power. Stupid”.

Jack scratches his head, ignoring the banging of Lewis and Tucker cleaning up, “couldn't they just drop the... child ghost?”.

Maddie nods at him before looking back to Danny, “like with human adoption?”.

Danny shakes his head immediately, “nope. A bond thing kinda forms that lasts as long as they both exist; whether the child ‘grows up’ or not”.

Both parents blink, Jack mouthing ‘wow’. Maddie bites her lip, “so you are... bound to ClockWork?”, she’s not sure what to do with this information.

Danny gives an awkward nod, he gets that there’s really no way for that not to bother them, “yeah”, tapping his chest brace over his Core, “my Core recognises them as Guardian and reacts, um, accordingly”.

Jack and Maddie share a Look, and Lewis glances over pointedly curious. Maddie’s the one to speak though, “and what’s ‘accordingly’?”.

Tucker snickers and speaks almost meanly, leaning over at Danny, “like a little kid”, snickering more, “Sam has a few embarrassing photos”.

Lewis looks to him, “I’m curious”.

Danny turns to point at him, “no, bad doctor”, and subtly flicks snow from his tail at the guy’s legs.

Lewis rolls his eyes, “can’t be any worse than Vee covered in marshmallows eating chicken with a coffee mug on their head. Or literally any photo of a heavily drunk Eddie; the most recent featuring him trying to eat a tv and covered in party hats”. Tucker wheezes, Danny and Jack joining in after a beat.

Jack glances at the oven and back to Maddie, “cookies?”. Making her sigh and nod. Lewis shrugging and literally undoes all his cleaning to get ingredients and supplies.

Jack grins at the cookie sheets before looking back to Danny, “so you act like a child around ClockWork, eh?”. Danny just blushes and looks around anywhere but his dad at that; which just makes him laugh heartily.

Jack grins widely to himself, he’d kinda like to see that. Danny-boy had been a darn cute, goofy, and dramatic kid. That did explain all the banging his head on the table dramatics yesterday, or this morning technically. And the tail coiling was kinda like a kid grabbing at their parents' hands. Well shit, that’s adorable and makes him grin like an idiot a little. Little Danny did used to get mesmerised by Jack’s hands, mostly ‘cause of size difference though! And there was that pouting act he did! Maybe more genuine childish pout? Less mischievous drama? Jack’s attention getting grabbed by Lewis pulling out the brownies, “wait, is there fudge in those!”, and practically going to pounce on them.

Maddie shoos Jack off, “wait a little, dear. How about you and Danny wait in the living room till the cookies are at least in the oven?”. Jack groans but nods. Maddie speaking to Danny before Jack has a chance to drag him off, “one thing I still don’t get though? Core and everything else or not, you’re still human”.

Danny shrugs, “it’s like you said before I came in -yes I heard that- I’m ghost enough to ghosts. ‘One of them’”. Maddie nods acceptingly, though she doubts someone who would defy time would care about something like species.

Jack immediately drags Danny off to the living room as soon as his wife looks satisfied, because he knows she won’t put in the cookies until he leaves. Gotta love a tricky lady. Though a third the joy in baked cookies was how damn good she looked in her frilly apron.

Danny elects to just float around lazily a bit, it was still kinda surreal floating around his parents. His dad chuckling, “it’s like you were born with It”.

Danny stilling and shrugging, “well, uh, thinking of it, ClockWork might have something to do with that. All they’ve got is tail”.

Jack chuckles and nods a little, made sense. What with the bond influence thing. Which, yeah, still not that cool with but Danny seem cool with it; so he’s kinda cool with it too. ClockWork did seem nice! For a ghost at least. Mads would take a bit more, but Danny-boy’s not a little kid so surely he understands! Though thinking of her and that, this whole ClockWork situation wasn’t all she was fretting over... “so Danny?”.

Danny pauses in the air, “why do I feel like this is more heavy stuff?”.

Jack gives an apologetic shrug, “sorry?”, Danny just waves him off so he asks away, “so Maddie had been wondering to me about more than ClockWork”.

Danny makes a point to not seem nervous, “oh?”.

Jack nods, “yeah. She was thinking that maybe you had an Obsession. You know, like a ghostly one. She wasn't sure ‘bout asking, if you’d be cool with that. Since we’ve always talked about those being unpleasant”, chuckling and rubbing his neck, “not that there’s anything wrong with that!”, moving to sit down on the couch, “though they don’t exactly seem positive. But! I’m sure you could make things work for you! Right?”, rubbing his neck again, “Dan thinks they’re like a hobby! So maybe you like it- or would like it! If you had or have one that is”, giving another weak chuckle, “though we’ve always thought of them as controlling and inclined towards bad behaviours. Violent”, waving his hands pacifyingly, “not that you’re ever violent or bad!”, muttering to the side, “other than ditching class and shirking chores anyway”, looking back to Danny, “so if you do or did, then it totally can’t be violent, so we must be at least somewhat wrong about that! We’re definitely learning a lot from you”, waving his hands again, “not that that’s why we ask or want to know!”.

Danny interrupts, floating to sit down himself. It was weird when his dad was the one needing comforting, he didn’t like it, “dad, you’re rambling, I know”, shrugging, “sure you’re curious for curiosities sake, and it being ghost-related of course. But I know it’s more because you want to know me, that I'm your son. Family”. Jack just nods and rubs his neck awkwardly, so Danny continues after adjusting a little; trying to not be weird about this, and running his hands over part of his tail, “as for the, er, Obsession, thing-”.

Jack pats him on the back gently and cuts in, “you don’t have to tell me, tell us, if you’d rather not”. He hopes his boy doesn’t take the out though, he’s curious! And they didn’t fully understand Obsessions beyond them being called ‘Obsession’ for a reason, was related to their death, and largely what kept them around; blocked them from moving on. What ghosts Obsessed about was important them, so if Danny had one then it’s got to be important to him! And he definitely wants to know the things important to his boy! But Danny was clearly a bit defensive of all these things he’s been hiding, the ghostly things and definitely ClockWork; boy could be scary if he wanted to be! And also the Core, he has a feeling Danny didn’t just recently find out about that. And Obsessions could, and have been, used to a hunters' advantage. To trap or discourage or harm. he’s never even heard of a ghost being open about their Obsession! Even if it was obvious! Like with that Box Ghost. And ClockWork’s was probably time-related; or just was time as a whole! So it would totally make sense for him to what to hide his, if he has one.

Danny blinks, well honesty has worked for him with all this so far. But he never would have willing outed his Core to them. Parents or not, they were still ghost hunters. And even if they weren't, well Lewis only knew because he saw It. And Lewis had caught him off guard when he told him about his Obsession and was being kinda like him. Asking what he had to for someone else’s health and safety. Oh, and the drugs; that was definitely a factor. Now his folks? The only reason they had was curiosity and maybe some misplaced worry/fear over the idea of him having one. And his Obsession was absolutely one that could be taken advantage of. Lewis and his ‘it would be helpful’ shit made that painfully obvious. And him giving him an Obsessive Crisis, while an accident, had still been partly caused by Lewis knowing. So no, not happening. And his dad would just ask questions on top of questions, likely becoming completely oblivious to sensitivity. That was kinda his dad’s thing. And his mom, well she would wonder how he satisfied it; and that would lead to the big Phantom secret.

Danny rubs his neck, glancing at his tail swishing around and vibrating a bit, “I mean? Don’t worry about it?”.

Jack nods a little, that was as good as a ‘yes’. To both an Obsession and to not wanting to talk about it. He has no idea if this is cool or not. He should probably confirm though? No assuming. “So... yes?”, and making a point to give him a sheepish look over the tail giving a little snapping thrash; he had noticed Danny’s tail seemed to give away his emotions a little. Which actually did support the possibility that ghosts were actually more emotionally sensitive.

Danny looks around awkwardly and nods a little, “um, yeah. Do you, like, need to know the, er, ‘what’ though?”, and staring at his dad a bit challengingly. As if daring him to make up some bullshit reason. If his dad, the much more curious and knowledge-hungry one, can let this go then he guesses he can trust them a bit more. Can much more genuinely believe they care more about family, about him, than ghost hunting. He already knew they loved him more than they hated ghosts, them accepting his ghostly crap was proof enough of that. And they hadn’t, like, banned him from seeing ClockWork. Not that that would be possible.

Jack’s pretty sure some might find his sons staring a bit ‘creepy’ but he’s seen it a few times, usually aimed at his friends though... and Vladdie. Who, come to think of it, was pretty good at the unnerving stare himself! As for his boy's question? He definitely wants to know! but no way he needed to. Mads would probably worry it would make him misbehave or something, but Danny-boy said not to worry and he’s gonna trust his boy! “Naw. If you don’t want to then you don’t want to. I’m sure there’s nothing wrong with that!”, chuckling and smiling, Danny exhaling and smiling back after a bit. While Jack continues, “so long as it’s not making you sick or unhappy, anyway. And I’d be totally down with helping you with it! or maybe you need help figuring something out with it! Or even just wanna talk about it! I’m sure your mom would be cool with that too!”.

Danny cringes a little, “uh, sorry but no. I’d really rather not. It’s, uh, personal. Private I guess”, shrugging a little stiffly, “kinda like how I, uh, don’t want my Core being poked at”, clearing his throat, “but it’s fine. I’m fine. I keep it satisfied and in check. And it’s not something bad or anything”, shrugging and tacking on, “most generally aren’t”, partly to get away from his Obsession specifically.

Jack blinks and mutters to himself, “so Dan was right...”, making Danny cringe again as Jack shakes his head and speaks up again but at Danny, “good then. Well my offer still stands, always will!”.

Danny nods, “um, thanks”, and gives his tail a little, hopefully subtle, pat to encourage It to chill out. He’s gonna have to ask ClockWork for tail tips.

Meanwhile in the kitchen, Tucker nudges Maddie, “when it comes to CW, take Danny’s warning and just don’t question their motives towards him. You know better now so he’ll be less... nice next time”.

Maddie blinks, stilling her mixing, “should I be worried?”.

(Lewis is firmly staying out of this)

Tucker chuckles and rolls his eyes, “nope, it’s a bond thing”, shaking his head, “and ClockWork saved all of us, so questioning their motive is like questioning whether all of us deserve to live to him”.

Maddie whispers, “oh”, okay that was pretty serious. She knows how protective Danny can be, especially of friends and family, so Danny’s extreme reaction made much more sense now.

Tucker nods, washing out a bowl while Lewis spoons the cookies. Maddie sits against the table as Tucker continues, “yup. And ClockWork is just as defensive of Danny”, snickering, “did you know the government of the Zone put out a hit on him once”.

Maddie chokes, whisper yelling, “what???”. Lewis just steps to the side slightly, Danny’s friends are as addicted to chaos as Danny is; he’d like to not be in the splash zone currently, the peanut gallery’s pretty appealing though.

Tucker nods, “yup. ClockWork pretty much told them to get lost. And nobody says no to ClockWork”, tilting his head, “except Danny”.

Maddie shakes her head in utter disbelief, “they're that respected or powerful?”.

Tucker shakes his head and purses his lips a little, nodding at Lewis, “it’s not just simple little humans that look at them and think ‘god’, ClockWork’s the stuff of myths and legends to the spookies”, adding purely to cover his own ass, “according to Danny anyway”.

Maddie nods, that was a bit out there. Ghosts had their own myths? That also meant culture. Were ghosts actually... highly complex and sophisticated? shaking her head a little, she would have brushed this off days ago, and puts the cookies in the oven. Frowning slightly at overhearing Jack, was he asking Danny about Obsessions? She advised him against that! Apparently, Tucker thought the same. Him sounding slightly worried, “oh, uh, wonder if I should jump in? Obsession’s kinda touchy”.

Maddie blinks, looking to Tucker, wait what? “So he... he has that”.

Tucker makes a cringe showing all his teeth and even scrunching up his neck, “I’m guessing you didn’t know that”. Making Maddie sigh.

Lewis shakes his head and chuckles, again amazed Danny has held on to any of his secrets when none of them could even keep track of what they were lying about and what they weren’t; combined with talking about shit out loud.

Maddie checks the cookies, “well I’m glad you’re close and protective of each other. Though I wish we had been told about all of this”. Tucker elects not to respond to that.

A bit later Jack and Danny turn their heads at Maddie calling that the cookies are ready. Jack promptly jumping up and dashing to the doorway; eager for brownie and cookie alike. Looking back to Danny from the entryway, “you coming?”.

Danny smiles, “yeah. Yeah I am dad”, and flicking his tail before floating over.

Tucker effectively shovels food in his mouth, looks excited and excitedly smacks Lewis arms, “fugh mun”. Then finger-gunning at Danny, “weh, I shoe gwe giong”. Making Danny laugh and finger-gun back, “you just wanted me for my food. What? Do I only have half enough physical appeal for you?”.

“Yo oh ur zezz”. Danny just wheezes at Tucker’s wink.

Lewis walks up behind him, another coffee in hand, “did he just call you sexy?”.

Danny rolls his eyes and takes the second cup from him, “Lewis, doc man, Tucker thinks everyone’s sexy. All the time. Dead. Alive. Furry. Don't matter. Everybody’s sexy af”.

Lewis quirks an eyebrow, “furry?”.

“His sona’s an otter”.

“Well alright then, all the power to him”, and lifts his cup in a little salute.

Danny scowls slightly and points at him, “no matter how chill you are, I will always remember breaking your mind via duplication”. Lewis shakes his head with a little smile.

Jack walks up and ruffles his hair, “so Danny-boy? What should we call the ClockWork fellow? ‘Cause no offence, but ‘parent’ is taken”.

Danny chuckles slightly, “uh, dad? Guardian is the actual proper term”.

Lewis points up at him, seeing as he was floating slightly above their heads, “but ‘guardian’ is synonymous with ‘parent’ for us human beings”.

Jack chuckles, “so something else for the ghost guardian of our kid's ghostliness”. Making Danny tilt his head, “uh, I’m not even sure there is a word for that. But maybe... godparent? Sure you didn’t choose them, but?”.

Lewis snorts, “of course that’s the term you’d go with for a technical god who’s also technically a parent”.

Jack laughs, “true!”, patting Danny, “and they -like Vladdie!- aren’t actually related to you! so it would make sense!”.

Danny rubs his neck and floats slightly lower down, “uh”, and looking around awkwardly.

Lewis raises his eyebrows, a bit genuinely surprised because how???? “Oh really?”.

This gets Maddie over, “did I hear that right? Are you saying you are related? To a ghost that was never alive?”.

Danny gives an awkward shrug, “bond thing. I’ve got a little bit of them. They've got a little bit of me”.

Maddie and Jack exchange a major Look over that before looking back at him. Jack grins wide and smacking a fist into his hand, “well that settles it, that ghosts a Fenton”, tilting his head, “which is not something I thought I’d ever say”.

Danny’s grin is practically beaming, “well I’m happy to hear it”.

Maddie just grins and passes around the cookies.

It doesn’t take long before the parents' minds are firmly back on the ‘make Danny legs goddamnit’ train. Maddie eyeballs his swishing tail as Lewis has him doing (unnecessary)laps and what can really only be described as tricks. Maddie walks over, following her son with he eyes; it was almost weird how normal him floating around felt now, “so, up for installing the clock timer?”.

Danny pauses and shrugs, still a little too awkward about this to just float upside down and chat or something, “I mean? Sure?”. All three of them watching Jack practically launch himself at the lab door.

Maddie and Lewis watching Danny’s eyes widen a little, before he zips towards the door; absolutely beating Jack down.

The three adults getting down to the sight of Danny flipping over and inspecting the little device; Maddie’s not even going to bother wondering how he got that out of containment.

Danny absolutely knows there were little sparkles of green flecks in his eyes as he checks the trinket over, running over the curves and edges. Eventually lifting up his head and pursing his entire face as he hits a tiny trigger and the devices shoots out confetti everywhere.

Jack almost immediately begins laughing, “oh wow! They’re a jokester!”. Like Danny!

Maddie walks up and shakes her head at the mess, “well that was rather funny though messy”.

Danny chuckles, “well if you had tried to install this before I accidentally set off the little prank then the confetti would have probably fried things. So joke, but also test slash failsafe”.

Jack tilts his head, “but they see the future right? They already know our actions before we take them”.

Danny shakes his head, “no. They just see all the possible futures. Sure they can tell what’s most likely but that doesn’t mean much”, smirking, “and even they say I’m notorious for taking the less likely paths. They, uh, actually make bets on that”.

Lewis blinks, “you mean people bet against the guy that sees all the future?”, shaking his head, “how stupid do you have to be”.

Danny shrugs, “more like egotistical, they usually bet against other future seers, ClockWork’s got a better view than them though. So...”. Lewis shakes his head more.

Jack runs over snatching up the fully repaired CyberSteps, while Maddie holds her hand out to Danny. Danny glances from the (apparently dubbed)clock timer to Maddie, “okay. Just... careful”.

Maddie nods and takes it from him gingerly, “we will be, don’t worry”. Lewis walks over to look over her shoulder at the device before she takes it over to one of the tables to examine; leaving Lewis standing next to Danny.

Lewis watches the parents for a bit before looking to Danny, who of course is practically staring at them. Lewis knows they’re far enough away from the hunter couple to go unheard; even with sound travelling a lot down here. “So obviously I know ClockWork is immortal, but I remember you implying you were practically immortal yourself. Neigh indestructible, I believe”.

Danny glances to the guy, giving him ‘seriously?’ eyebrows, before looking back to his parents. Speaking quietly, “geez doc”, shaking his head a little, “ghosts are super hard to destroy in general. Halfas are just even harder”.

Lewis nods, “so Vlad too then".

Danny snorts, "he's weaker than me”.

“Yeah I think that’s obvious”, Danny was obviously stupid strong. This gets Danny to curl up a bit and laugh. While Lewis continues, “speaking of that one, just how dangerous is he?”, considering he might just have pissed him off. Lewis could do without more ghostly drop-ins.

Danny digs out his phone from his brace and flips through his photos while speaking, “he’s a nine. Lots of reasons for the lower level. Made by weaker and less ecto; contaminated ecto too. My age is a factor too and being exposed to ecto for, like, my whole life”. Glancing at him, “his real danger is he’s stupid smart and has enough cash to go nuts with”, chuckling, “like the cloning thing. That’s one way to get a kid at fourteen though”.

Lewis raises his eyebrows at that, again this kid’s life was ridiculous, “not sure that counts as ‘kid’”.

Danny smirks, “Vlad fucked up. We’re not identical, just closely genetically related”, chuckling, “she’s a little three-foot-tall twelve-year-old travelling nomad. In London right now I think”, tilts his head and shrugs.

Lewis shakes his head with a sigh, “congrats, just like Eddie you have a kid without getting anyone pregnant”., shrugging, “though Eddie’s is technically in the works”.

Danny laughs, “least Elle’s not natural”, holding his phone out to the guy, “here’s a pic of her kicking Vlad in the face”.

Lewis leans over, huh, someone would have to be blind to not notice the family resemblance. White hair, green eyes, black and white jumpsuit, DP symbol, stupid cheeky grin; a Phantom through and through. The other guy though, looks like a knockoff bramstrocker; the vampire jokes officially make sense. “Well alright, cute kid; I can practically smell trouble maker on her”, tapping his nail on the screen, “why’s Vlad look so different though?”.

Danny shrugs, “adult thing or something. Spookies change their appearance sometimes”.

Jack actually comments on that, “we’re honestly not sure at this point if they do that for aesthetic or it just happens because they got stronger!”. Maddie coming over as well, clock timer in hand. Danny’s more than a little pleased that it doesn’t look like they took it apart at all. Good.

Maddie holds it up, “I think I’m willing to trust this and it’s definitely compatible”, looking to Danny, “it’ll only work around the waist though and won’t function as a conductor”.

Jack nods and gestures with his hands a little wildly, “so we’ll just rip out the timer stuff from our conductor! And leave the conductor where it is!”, nodding curtly with a grin before pausing, “if that’s cool with you, of course”.

Danny smiles, “that’s fine, apparently I’m flexible enough to reach”, stretching to make a point, “even with the braces”.

Lewis grumbles, “just don’t break them”. Danny has cost the hospital a lot of money at this point. Sure medicine wise and room wise he saved them money, but all the braces, having to recast his arm, the extremely expensive wheelchair that he can’t believe Mrs. Levi actually signed off on (sure all he had to do was show the insanely high and unusual injures Amity Parker’s tended to get -especially minors- and she gave her approval immediately), the patient file bug Tucker made that the tech guy said he’d have nightmares over, and the fact that they got investigated by a very shady section of the government (that not-rain stuff almost forced the entire hospital into quarantine).

Jack beams and rushes off to the CyberSteps, dragging Maddie along with. Danny’s pretty sure the legs look more defined, more finished, than when he last saw them; or this was just a finished version since basically everything but the timer conductor was likely as perfect as it could be.

Danny makes damn sure his folks are preoccupied with the legs before looking back to Lewis, snatching his phone away since the guy started flipping through his photos, “seriously doc? Rude”.

Lewis just shrugs, “you’re the one who gave me your phone. Besides, you’re interesting and I’m curious. Nice castle. Doesn’t seem your style though”.

Danny huffs and rolls his eyes, “excuse me for thinking you, a doctor married to a lawyer, had some manners”, crossing his arms and muttering down at them, “sure I would’ve done the same but still”, looking back to Lewis, “and I didn't design that, Pariah did. I’ll change it when I take the throne”, shrugging, “it’s an automatic thing. Lairs are weird like that. Ecto-construct and all that”.

Lewis nods, yeah lairs bent to the need, personality, and somewhat the will of its ghost; if he’s remembering that correctly. Smirking a little, “let me guess, it’ll reholposter itself black n’ white?”.

Danny smirks right back, “what can I say? I know my colours and I wear them proud. The white of life and the black of death”.

Lewis shakes his head and leans against the wall, “speaking of castles and thrones, still can’t say I understand how a crown and ring could make someone able to absorb and feed an entire dimension. And if you’re the sorta will of Zone then could you modify it like a lair? And what about the Zone needing a king eventually? Is that a sooner or later kind of thing?”, tilting his head, “and with that, if you got destroyed would the universe eventually just die?”.

Danny gives him a truly pained look, “you wrote this shit down, didn't you”, scowling at the doctor's small nod. Danny side-eyes his parents to make sure they’re still absorbed in their work, before answering, “alright, it works like this: the ring has a negative glow so it can pass as a regular ring, because it -unlike other ecto things- strictly absorbs ectoplasm instead of shedding ectoplasm. While the crown is the opposite, it only sheds and doesn’t absorb; hence why it practically blazes off ectoplasm. The ring absorbs the Zone’s ectoplasm, the Crown sheds off the wears ectoplasm plus whatever they absorbed in from the Zone. Kinda like the wearers a heart and the ring and crown are valves”.

Lewis smirks approvingly, “that’s a very doctorly comparison of you”.

Danny snorts, “it works and you’re a doctor. Anyway. Yeah having that much energy following through a little tiny body’s a lot but-”, shrugging, “-like I’ve said, I’m used to dealing with things that are a lot. And my consciousness, sorta, would be carried though all that ecto. So I’d pretty much have an awareness of the whole Zone and every ghost. Which yes, means I could modify it like a lair. Not quite the same though. The Zone would be part of me yeah, part of my ectoplasm and what my folks seemed to have called my ecto-circulatory system; but the Zone wouldn’t be my lair, just an extension of my being. And I can’t just modify my body willy nilly”, tilting his head, “well it’s base state anyway”. Danny forms an eye on his hair to wink at the guy just for emphasis.

Lewis quirks an eyebrow, at least he was pretty immune to body horror shit, “so you’re effectively a battery, heart, and food for the Zone, but also are -will be- literally the Zone. You’re gonna be a dimension”.

Danny actually laughs a little into his hand at that, giving Lewis a little shoulder pat with his tail, “that’s a great way to put it!”, shaking his head with a smile, “yeah I’ve got a crazy future existence. And for that one question, it’s a long time in the future. The Zone’s probably good to run off the stockpile of Pariah for a few hundred more years. Well, unless something happens anyway”. Which, with his luck, was probable. Heck, he’s pretty sure Sam and Tucker have a bet going on whether or not it’ll happen before or after they graduate, before or after his parents eventually... pass away, or before or after they do. Shaking his head and firmly pushing away thoughts of anyone dying, “and no man, currently my destruction won’t end the universe. The Zone will latch on to someone else... eventually. Now if I was king, that would be an issue since the Zone would decay right”, chuckling, “though in that case the throne would just be passed down to Elle”.

Lewis blinks, “oh, so it’s tied to your lineage? Instead of exclusive to you”.

“Yup, the typical royalty shtick”, tapping his chin, “though I think Sam and Tuck are classed as my brethren so they might kinda have a level of claim too. Dora, FrostBite, and Pandora are sorta family too. But they’re all complicated. And course, if I married then whoever would have their own claim”, and shrugs, “I wouldn’t put it past Vlad to try and wiggle his way in too”.

Lewis sighs, “nothing is ever simple with you is it? And you have more ghost family? Really?”.

Danny shrugs awkwardly at that, “kinda? It’s weird man and not to the level of Clocky. Not even close”, grinning a little, “Dora sees me as the good protective older brother she never got to have. Pandora sees me as like a nephew or sorta godchild, ever since I got her box back. FrostBite’s kinda a mentor in all things icy, kinda worships me as some kind of chosen one, and they’re my doctor too sometimes”.

Lewis blinks at that, “wait, you have a specialised doctor? Then why the Hell don’t you use them”.

Danny rolls his eyes, “of course that’s the part you care about mr. Doctor man. I can handle my own shit and I do go to him for serious shit I can’t just handle myself”. Making Lewis sigh and shake his head, completely unimpressed. The boy had access to medical care and just... didn’t use it. Thinking of the whole setting Danny’s arm after he literally crashed though the car. Or at least he didn’t take advantage of medical care unless it was literally within arms reach.

Maddie picks that moment to bolt over with a grin on her face, grabbing at Danny’s hand; Jack in the background looks to be throwing his fist up in a cheer.

Danny rolls his eyes with a smile and lets her drag him off; Lewis studiously following after. Lewis seriously hoping this time doesn’t result in yet another negative reaction.

Danny looks over the CyberSteps, floating around them quickly. Putting his hands on the waist and peering down, tapping the off-centre clock timer with his tail tip, “looks good”. The very tip coiling around one of the clock hands a little, he likes it; it kinda felt like ClockWork. Pointedly ignoring Lewis’s slight chuckle. Jerk.

Maddie and Jack both watch tensely but ridiculously excited all the while, as Danny grips the waist and slips his tail in, hopefully having to test out the ‘legs’ for the last time.

Danny glances over his shoulder brace as he activates the neuroreceptor strip, watching it all snap on over the back brace; which Lewis is probably still unimpressed about. Then tilting his head, the draining felt practically the same as before; and it didn’t seem to be making his ecto freak. So that’s a check on the conductor. Looking down at the legs and quirking an eyebrow at the little clock timers clock hands spinning around. His mom obviously noticing, “I’m pretty sure that’s what it does when it’s calibrating, sweetie”. Which Danny nods at and decides to wait, going to try moving the legs once the clock hands chill out. And the toes/boot tips successfully bend upwards.

And with that, one Danny Fenton was no longer legless on main

FIN.

JK JK JK

Lewis watches as Danny wiggles the toes and bounces up on said toes some, before actually taking a few steps around. The movements were definitely a little jerky and he wasn’t moving them quite right, it was very much like he was trying out limbs he hadn’t had before. If Lewis were to guess, he’d say that’s likely because these robotic leg prosthetics didn’t work exactly the same as natural legs; so logically he’d have to learn how to pilot them properly. Watching Jack and Maddie stand in-front of him and all three pretty well beaming at each other; Jack even doing a little jig or something (whatever it is, Danny clearly finds it embarrassing). It was obvious Danny was proud of what his folks made, even if he didn’t honestly need it. Frankly he’s pretty sure Danny’s proud of the things his parents make in general, he just hadn’t liked the anti-ghost foundation they were built upon. Sure seemed they had gotten better about that though. Which is good, since the universe -somewhat technically- depended on that.

Lewis nods once and walks closer -having given the family their little moment- and pats Danny’s arm brace, “well looks like you can walk upon this earth again. Though maybe practice”, pausing for a beat before adding, “no kicking people”.

Danny blinks at Lewis, “no kidding doc. Literal steel toes here”.

Lewis chuckles and gives his two (adult)friends pats, “congrats, you just made a breakthrough in probably a lot of fields, but most relevant to me, medical science. You’re officially scary smart. But-”, turning to Danny because the kid’s supposed to be injured and recovering. Gesturing at the neuroreceptor strip, “you. While this is great and all, you had back surgery. So I’m restricting use till your braces are good to come off and I check your spine out”. Honestly, he should outright ban it.

Danny sticks his hands to the side and pouts a little, “oh come on doc”.

Lewis crosses his arms, “most doctors wouldn’t have even let you test them or wear them at all”. Danny rubs his neck at that.

Maddie gives Lewis a sweet smile, “well thanks for letting us do this and I think we all understand”, looking to Danny, “right Danny?”. Danny grumbles incoherently but nods.

Jack taps at his chin, watching Danny walk around a bit more, “what I don’t get, is how you moved the ones that didn’t work at all smoothly but these ones are being a bit jerky or over-exaggerated? Even if you originally weren’t working them even close to smooth with the tail”.

Danny shrugs, “uh, well I’ve never had brain to mechanics connections like this before. My brain and ecto might just, like I don’t know, learn how these interpret stuff?”.

Lewis nods immediately because that was actually true really for learning how to work any prosthetic, “there’s a learning curve with any prosthetic, they never move the exact same as the originals”, tilting his head, “and if what you’re thinking of Danny’s ghost being somewhat active is right, then the tail wouldn’t be truly new; simply normally inaccessible. Which you’ve effectively already implied to be the case to explain his ease of adapting. So his fine motor skills with his tail should be quite good, which would allow for it to take very little time for him to figure out how to grasp or say, move things, with said tail”, and nods curtly to himself. Pretty content with his explanation.

Danny decidedly says nothing though Lewis just gave him a pretty damn good out. His parents' nods and smiles make that obvious.

Jack goes wide-eyed, coming upon an idea and blurting out, “ClockWork!”, then looking at his slightly confused looking son, “you said that ClockWork only has a tail! And that you’re basically related! Ghostly related!”. Everyone gives him slightly confused eyebrow quirks, so he explains himself, “so maybe your ghost took after them and just has a tail too!”.

Maddie blinks and grins, “that does make sense”, ruffling Danny’s hair, “so that explains that“. Danny just shrugs, ‘cause in their mind, there’s no way he should know what his ghost looks like. But also, yeah, him being so comfortable and good with this was totally ClockWork’s fault. And he totally loves them for it. Intentionally swishing his tail around in the legs, kinda weird that he could move his tail without moving his legs. How in the heck is his brain -or ectoplasm maybe, Core?- differentiating between tail and legs? He’s totally going to fidget with his tail during class. No one will ever know! “Well still too bad my walking skills have gotten a bit rusty”.

Lewis glances at his watch, pretty late; it would probably be the ‘responsible’ thing to encourage a normal -or as normal as possible for a teenage superhero whose enemies seem to prefer the night- sleep schedule. “Alright, I know you probably want to celebrate all this but at the very least Danny should reestablish a proper sleep schedule. Sleep is vital for healing and health after all”.

Danny rolls his eyes, “all doctor, all the time, huh?”.

“Says mr. Helpful”. Danny scowls at that, because not the same. Not the fucking same. Though if the doc became a ghost his Obsession would probably be the same but maybe more curious ‘I wonder what will happen if’.

Danny looks around, “well first, can’t we at least have supper?”. Jack’s stomach growls as if being summoned, making everyone laugh.

While Maddie gets to work making food, Jack and Lewis basically talk each other’s ears off with how the legs even worked at all; ‘cause Lewis is just stunned but intrigued and Jack is utterly excited. Danny sneaks up the stairs, totally unused to how damn loud these feet were; he’s gonna have to work on that because he loves how easily he can even accidentally sneak up silently on people.

Danny stops in front of Jazz’s door and promptly kicks it in; the door simply opening loudly instead of being blown off its hinges purely because all the doors in the house were built to handle getting rammed and blasted.

“Zone! Danny! Why in the Zone are you kicking in doors!”. Jazz pauses, “wait, you kicked it in”, looking to his legs and leaping up, “holy shit Danny! You’ve got legs!”, rushing over and pinching the CyberSteps, “can you actually feel this?!?!”.

Danny grins stupidly, puts his hands on his hips, and poses ridiculously, “yup, totally can”, tilting his head, “not quite the same though”.

Jazz practically jumps on him and hugs him around the neck, “oh who cares! This is great Danny!”, letting go and brushing off his braces, “I bet mom and dad were just stoked”.

Danny nods almost sheepishly, “oh definitely”, cringing a little, “dad did a jig”, making her cringe as he continues, “Lewis also crushed their spirits a little by limiting my leg time. Though we are still baking eggies to celebrate my leggies”, and grins.

Jazz sighs with a head shake, “I was wondering if they forgot about supper again”.

“Oh they did”.

Jazz blinks, “of course they did”.

Lewis walks in, arms crossed and judgmental eyebrow raised, “there you are. You do realise I’m supposed to be keeping an eye on the kid who broke basically everything, should have died, is in braces and bandages, and is now trying out brand new experimental prosthetics that interact with his brain and the spine he broke”.

Danny rolls his eyes, “geez tell me what you really mean”.

Jazz pokes Danny, “he does have a point you know. You are supposed to be injured”. Danny scowls at her but rounds on Lewis, sticking his arms out to the side, “so when can I obliterate these things”.

“Never. They’re hospital property. Casts can’t be reused, braces can”.

Jazz immediately cringes at that, Danny’s the one to speak though, “you don’t want to do that. I bet you ten bucks these are all ecto-contaminated. And I doubt you want them coming to life, or death really, and trying to eat someone’s arm or something”.

Lewis blinks, “alright, you can destroy them”, that would be a lawsuit waiting to happen. A very strange lawsuit. ‘My arm brace came to life and ate my firstborn’, would certainly be a new one.

Danny grins wickedly and promptly bursts into blue flames, actually managing to make Lewis jump back and Jazz yelp.

Lewis watches the ashes of the braces flutter to the ground, before giving (the no longer on fire)Danny an exasperated look, “I didn’t mean now”, squinting, “and how did you not burn the CyberSteps?”.

Danny creates a flame over his fingers, “ecto-fire”, pointing the other hand at the CyberSteps, “anti-ecto”, then adding, “only a little though, otherwise it would be anti-me”.

Lewis shakes his head, “can’t have that now can we?”. Danny grins and points out the door, promptly walking off at Lewis saying, “so long as an adult who knows your ecto or tech is around you”.

Lewis looks to Jazz, “he certainly seems better for his ghostliness, doesn’t he”.

Jazz smiles soft and sweet, “I used to worry about him, even got the vice principal to force him to see a therapist. But once I found out, it made sense and I knew he was okay. That not only was he good mentally, or as good as he could be, but also just good as a person”, giggling a little, “now of course I still worry, that’s what sisters do after all. But he’s a day at a time mentally, there isn’t exactly a standard for a halfa, for being mentally two species that are really opposites; and Vlad’s not exactly a good example. He needs a therapist more than Danny does”.

Lewis chuckles at that and nods, “can’t say I disagree. Though I wouldn't say Danny particularly comes off as someone who needs therapy, he hides his traumas well. Which, well, hiding things from a therapist equals not getting effective therapy”.

Jazz gives him a smile that practically reads ‘you misunderstand’, “that’s because he’s at the stage of acceptance now”, Lewis quirks an eyebrow so she explains, “people grieve when someone dies, and I believe the dead grieve their death just as much if not more”, nodding a little to herself, “at first he tried to convince himself nothing had changed, the abilities would just wear off; he even went through an ‘I’m not dead!’ phase, that came later though”.

Lewis tips his head, “well to be fair, most people don’t expect to be dead but still walking around, and half-dead just sounds impossible. So thinking he’s not dead seems more like being logical than being in denial”.

Jass gives him an almost pitying look, “yeah but he was apparently pretty desperate and freaked about it. Less simple logic and having an issue with the impossible, more desperation to deny what they know is true”.

Lewis nods, ah okay Danny definitely had a harder time than he had thought. He’s kinda glad he didn’t meet Danny back then because again, he’s not good at dealing with freaking out breaking down emotional types.

Jazz nods and keeps going, “Sam and Tucker said they effectively had to convince him not to just tell his parents and beg them to fix him once he realised things weren’t going away. He hated the powers, the changes; that’s the point when I noticed something was up, that he seemed depressed. I pushed for the therapy when he started being just angry, all the time”.

Lewis nods, “ah, I guess that does sound like grieving. In that case, I’m glad he’s in the acceptance stage”.

Jazz grins, she certainly was, “same. His Obsession, his friends -especially the ghost ones-, the weird love/hate thing the town has for him; I think all that helped. Which is how I imagine it is typically for most ghosts; minus the last one”, pointing at him, “though I think you've helped with acceptance, he seems less affected by your name, and those blue flames he used there?”, grinning wider, “many times he’s refused to ever use that, so somethings happened there”.

Lewis blinks, ah the pyrokinesis was probably a power ‘Dan’ had and used liberally. “I may have effectively reasoned with his Obsession why he shouldn’t fear certain futures and that it would make him a shittier king. Used ClockWork too, or more so a quote Danny made of them”.

Jazz raises her eyebrows, “you must think pretty differently for that to have worked out”, frowning slightly, “I’d watch it, taking advantage of his Obsession too often will start coming off as malicious to the Obsession”.

Lewis shrugs, yeah he kinda figured that one. Like tempting Vee with chocolate. Eventually you’ll lose a few fingers. Literally. “I’m not one for social queues, living or dead ones. And he’d make a good surgeon, very helpful. And telling me things is helpful. And sure, I may have given him an Obsessive Crisis but my reasoning was sound”.

Jazz blinks, walks over, and smacks him over the head, “how has Danny not assaulted you yet?!?”.

Lewis takes it in stride, he had been smacked a great many times for insensitivity, and smirks, “might be that my whole career is helpful, I’m a helper all the same. Protecting people from the outcomes of their stupidity like shoving a cheese grater up their ass or eating nails”.

Jazz goes a little wide-eyed, “that actually makes sense. Obsession similarity is a major comradery thing for ghosts”, pausing, “also, is that really a common thing people do? Though the nails probably had something to do with pica”.

“We keep a white board of all the things people have shoved up their asses, one guy’s made it on the board multiple times; I admire the tenacity”, Lewis smirks as she gives him a strange look and just moves to head downstairs.

They come down to a slightly concerned-looking Danny sitting backwards on the couch but resting his chin over the back of the couch, watching his parents. Looking to Lewis when he notices them and making ‘psst’ noises at him; which makes Lewis wonder if he’s being hissed at for a bit, which considering the upstairs conversation would make some sense.

Jazz heads into the kitchen while Lewis walks over to Danny.

Danny scuttles over and hiss whispers, “so I wasn’t sure if me actually being braceless was, like, a good thing? ‘Cause, like, maybe you know otherwise and I, like an idiot, didn’t confirm things-”.

Lewis chooses to cut off what’s definitely going to be a ramble, “it’s fine, Danny. Honesty, I was considering removing them entirely pretty soon here. You’re fine”.

Danny grins and gives a little relieved sigh, before looking slightly freaked again and gesturing to his chest, his bare heavily scared toned chest, “also totally forgot about the bandaging. I mean what am I, a wire stripper?”.

Lewis is pretty sure most people would find how he goes from flesh straight to metal more eye-catching than the scarring; even if it was pretty major. Danny’s likely more worried about Jack and Maddie seeing though. And well, Danny being completely healed was very obvious this way. Which might be pushing it, “yeah, you look too healthy like this”.

Danny blinks, “I wasn’t actually thinking of that but point”. Lewis gestures up the stairs, so they head up to Danny’s (still uncleaned)room to redo bandaging.

Lewis shakes his head while unrolling bandaging, “you’d think you’d be encouraged to clean after your encounter”. Danny rolls his eyes and holds out his arms after disconnecting the CyberSteps. Lewis pauses and taps his chin, thinking of it, “actually, let’s just bandage where you had the most serious damage”.

So Lewis gets to work on the waist wrapping, again noting how strange Danny coming to a totally smooth flat end is. He’s going to have to pin the blame on Danny’s tail if his friends ask, because this is not only not medical standard but medically impossible. Not to mention physically impossible, so many half cut off organs and where the heck are his intestines? His poor digestive system; and that’s ignoring his lower excretory system being basically non-existent. He’d lose his license if he took credit here. Muttering mostly to himself, “how the Hell do you shit”.

Danny blinks before bursting out laughing, “did you seriously just ask that?!?!?”, shaking his head, “doc? Anyone ever tell you you’re weird?”.

Lewis smirks, “all the time”.

Danny smirks himself, “ghosts ‘excrete’ everything via shedding off ectoplasm, so what do you think”, and points at his tail, which is currently waving intangibly through Lewis. Danny, for kicks, makes It shed more noticeably; just to fuck with the guy a little.

Lewis pauses and side-eyes the tail, “is that... sanitary?”. Making Danny fall backwards on the bed cackling. Lewis has so many questions. Does his ectoplasm just burn it up? and it comes off kinda like smoke? Or does his ectoplasm digest it for fuel? Danny did imply he could get by on just ectoplasm (which a human can’t do) or just food (which a ghost can’t do).

Danny puts an arm over his eyes and wheezes, “nothing can survive the ecto, oh man. Haha. Does a better job than bleach”, and wheezes some more.

Lewis nods, moving to Danny’s chest -because honestly, what in there hadn’t been obliterated. Other than the Core and even that was hurt- and unrolling more, “well that’s good then”. Making quick work of the chest and grabbing Danny’s left hand up.

Danny chuckles, “yeah, I crushed, like, everything in that one”.

Lewis starts wrapping very quickly at the sound of an explosion outside and icy mist leaving Danny’s mouth. Ghosts and their timing. Managing to finish before Danny transforms and zips off through his window; leaving Lewis to stand up, put his hands on his hips, and shake his head.

Danny glances around, pretty sure he can smell something really strange that he’s never smelled before but ignores that at promptly spotting Red shooting at Boxy, Danny floats over, “I’m guessing you don’t really need or want my help here?”.

Red opens her visor purely to scowl at him and shoots the Box Ghost without even looking, “fuck off, Phantom”.

“YOUR DISTRACTION WILL BE YOUR DOOM!!!! AND MY BOXY REVENG-”. Getting cut off via a rocket to the mouth and both teens telling him to shut up. Red promptly capturing him and rounding on Danny.

Danny quirks an eyebrow because her just cutting off a Boxy beat down was weird. Red snaps at him, “obviously you've noticed shit’s up with the Fenton’s, so you better be leaving them alone, spook”.

Danny nods a little, “kinda easy to notice when those two are or aren’t out hunting”, continuing at it feeling like she’s squinting at him, “I ain’t pestering them, Red”. It’s true. Phantom wasn’t technically pestering his parents. Fenton was.

Red studies him for a bit before nodding and appears to sigh, “well the sons got a ghost tail now, like you guys”, Danny changes his legs to a tail for example, which she points at, “yeah, that. And you’re not too terribly evil and he slammed his face into a wall trying to use the thing”.

Danny gives a mock very offended, “hey”. Before blinking and going slightly wide-eyed at a realisation, “wait, are you asking me to teach him?”, how does he get himself into this kind of shit?

Red huffs, “you're supposed to be this town’s ‘protector’ and dealer with ghost shit, it’s supposedly your job”, then adding with bite and meaning, “unless you don’t actually care about people and just like fighting”, shrugging, “and even you wouldn’t be stupid or reckless enough to mess with the youngest child of ghost hunters”. Any ghost that did mess with Jazz or Danny probably saw Hell from the Fenton’s. And Phantom might be literally the only ghost Danny wouldn’t run away from. Maybe. And wasn’t there that time the house came to life or something and Danny and Phantom both helped with that?

Danny blinks, “yeah, I’m not stupid. Still remember Jack punching -yeah, punching, not shooting- Plasmius to a pulp for screwing with the Fenton family”. That was one of Danny’s favourite memories.

Red blinks, opening her visor again and just leaving it that way, “that really happened? Damn”, she’s never felt genuinely impressed by Jack before.

Danny nods, “yup, and Red? Our bodies, the floating, that shit comes naturally. It’s not taught”.

Red snaps, “but he’s not a ghost, Phantom”.

Danny rolls his eyes, “ghost body part. Same thing. And our bodies ain’t all the same you know”.

Red points at his tail, “well his and yours move similar, so there”.

Danny pointedly doesn’t look sheepish or anything at that, he should just agree -fuck his luck- before she starts pointing out other similarities, “geez fine”, pausing and floating a bit closer, “wait, you haven’t been just asking every ghost you see to play teacher, have you?”, for the love of the Ancients say no.

Red scowls at him and refuses to back up, “I’m not a moron either, Phantom. Just you”, squinting, “why?”.

Danny backs off a little and shrugs, “ghost social thing. It’s a few phrases shy of asking a ghost to adopt someone. Which would be kinda mean”, tilting his head, “if you asked Skulker that, you probably would never see Danny again”, if Danny Fenton was a regular human (with a ghost tail somehow) and couldn’t beat Skulker’s face in, anyways.

Red blinks, “what? You’re not ‘adopting’ him“.

Danny rolls his eyes, “well obviously. What you asked could just be taken that way. But I’m still a child so it don’t matter”.

Red shakes her head, “you ghosts are strange. Don’t adopt Danny, just give him tail tips or something”.

Danny snorts and chuckles, “just the tip?”, and pokes her board with his tail tip quickly before zipping away cackling. Red growls and shoots at him while shouting, “you disgust me!”.

Lewis had eventually wandered down into the kitchen, everyone raising the eyebrows at him, probably over Danny’s absence, “decided to take the chance to check up on Danny’s healing and wrapping. He’s stretching out his new bandaging and taking a break from the prosthetics”, nodding curtly, “the braces aren’t really needed anymore”. Jazz giggles quietly.

Maddie and Jack beam, Jack practically cheering, “awesome!”. Both of them super glad to hear that he genuinely as okay as he keeps insisting he is. His ecto likely being to blame, which is okay.

Just then Danny comes back, sticking his head through the kitchen doorway before pausing, “shit! Forgot my shirt”, and ducks his head before zipping back upstairs. Shouting down at everyone laughing or giggling or snorting, “its been a while since I’ve worn clothes alright! I’ve got hardware and software, but no underwear!”.

Lewis actually laughs at that, “pretty sure that’s one thing you don’t need!”, and speaks up again as Danny renters, “you know, a stripper that crushed both her knees said that to me once”. Making pretty much everyone choke.

Maddie steamrolls right over the adult implications of that and plates the eggs. Lewis raising an eyebrow, “eggs for supper? That’s weird”.

Danny coughs and gives Lewis an ‘I can’t believe you just said that’ look and promptly takes the opening, “that's not weird, your pants are weird”.

Lewis looks down, “they’re just sweat pants”, then pauses, wait that sounded familiar. Looking back up and shaking his head, “you really just quoted a commercial for eggs at me”.

Danny grins like he’s the cat that caught the canary, “you started it, doc”.

Maddie grins, digging into her food. Danny seemed more confident. She’s not sure if Lewis just had that effect on him or if it was because of him not utterly hiding his ghostliness around them anymore and them giving the good ghosts thing a real chance. Which made her think it’s all worth it. Trusting a ghost or too, being more neutral about ghosts, rethinking the science; and getting her son back more genuinely, knowing him better, was a great deal. Even if that meant her and Jack had practically been villains to Phantom and other maybe good ghosts; which was an uncomfortable thought. Because really? if ghosts could be good then Phantom being a hero was practically undeniable. And who shoots at a hero? Villains.

Seeing Danny in a loose long sleeve makes her unable to really feel bad though, he looked genuinely like himself again. His hand being bandaged up was a reminder of his injuries however; and she can see a bit peaking out of his collar. Glancing at his other hand, when had he gotten scars there? Though more importantly, how had she never noticed??? Or did his recent injuries scar over that fast. Both were a little concerning. Though she knows he’ll have scarring, Dan said as much.

Lewis’s phones goes off with a big fat ‘fuck you’ from Eddie for not saving any brownies and a pic of stew which was probably meant to be some kind of ‘well look what I made and you can’t have’. Lewis just sends back ‘who did the cooking? ‘Cause if it’s you Eddie, I think I’m good’ predictably getting swears in return. Lewis decides to take a photo of what he’s eating, answering Danny’s raised eyebrow, “Eddie made stew and is attempting to brag about that”.

“I hope there wasn’t any potatoes or baked beings”.

Jazz smacks him over the head while Lewis scrunches up his eyebrows, because that... that was actually something they would do. Getting a response from Vee reading ‘FRIED BABY BIRD NICE' didn’t help. Lewis shakes his head at Danny, muttering, “don’t give them ideas”.

Danny rolls his eyes, “well then I hope you don’t let Vee near your feet”, Lewis gives him some confused eyebrows so Danny smirks and continues very smugly, “they might want some men toes for their breath afterwards”. Lewis sighs. Jack and Maddie just look confused though.

While Danny finally wakes up the next morning, Maddie watches Lewis start breakfast. Jack is attempting to wake up himself with a cold shower. And Jazz has been up for a while sipping tea and reading in her room.

Danny stretches out a little, telekinetically dragging over the CyberSteps and slipping in; this was basically what he was going to be doing for however long in place of underwear. And fuck it, he’s not gonna bother with pants. Kinda pointless and he’s owning his metal. Might as well. Nabbing up his comfortable sweater, the one that never catches on bandaging. Twisting his upper body back and forth, didn’t seem like it would catch on the neuroreceptors either. Nice.

It was honestly still kinda strange walking again, using metal to do that was just a little bit weirder. Cool as shit too though.

Danny turns to the door at hearing a shout of: “IT’S NOT JUST US! YES!”. So he heads downstairs and thus walks into the sight of Lewis staring in confused curiosity at a pan he’s holding with three screaming grill-cheese sandwiches in it. One sprouts a little hand and tries to grab a fork, Lewis just bats it away like a misbehaving cat’s paw; a dirty look on his face all the while.

Danny walks in and looks down, “uh, congrats doc it’s a girl... I think”.

Lewis quirks an eyebrow, “you can tell?”.

Danny scowls, "no, I was making a fucking joke, doc".

Maddie puts her hands on her hips, "language Danny”. Catching Danny slightly off guard and making him blush, “oh um uh, sorry?”. Maddie just shakes her head.

Sam and Tucker barge in while Lewis lifts up the pan, “obviously this is inedible for us, but you?”. Danny gives him a serious ‘are you fucking me’ look.

Maddie immediately butts in, “why would-”, and cuts herself off, going wide-eyed. Looking to Danny, “actually, could you? Do you... want to try?”.

Jack practically bolts over, having just caught that, “oh that would be so cool! We wouldn’t have to scrap food so often!”.

Sam and Tucker come over grinning meanly at him. Tucker speaking up, “do it coward. Be a man”, Sam kicks him. Sam looks over the pan, unphased by the screaming and weird bubbling, but scowls at the cheese; or what once was cheese, “you already stole the poor cows milk, don’t insults them more by trashing it”.

Danny mutters at the floor, “I feel like I’m being ganged up on here”, though obviously not actually bothered. His mom makes him laugh though when she hands him a glass of ‘help you swallow it down’ milk. Danny takes it and looks to Sam with a smirk, “now I know you reject milk, but hopefully you’re not lack-toes-intolerant”.

The two teens look down at his feet, about to comment that he had those again, Tucker giving a little nod, “huh, no toes”.

Danny just chuckles, wiggles his ‘toes’, “hope you like roboots”, everyone sighs and the grill-cheeses scream a little more, which absolutely grabs Danny’s attention. Turning to the pan, “okay, now you are getting eaten. Feed my cyborgans”.

Sam mutters, “Ancients damnit, Danny”. While Danny grabs one of the sandwiches, smacks one of the other ones that tried to bite him, and cuts off the one he grabbed’s screaming by biting It with fake aggression.

Sam and Tucker both start laughing, while the adults all just kinda watch with bated breaths. Maddie’s pretty sure she can actually see him absorbing ectoplasm through his skin off the -what should they call It?- ecto-sandwich. Was certainly interesting that this was even technically safe for him. His Core would just eat all the ectoplasm before it could even possibly cause issues. And that ecto-immunity Jack considered him to have should mean all his human stuff can handle the ectoplasm; possibly even good for him. Feed his ghostly stuff, which probably only got anything from how contaminated the town and house were. Or maybe his Core could convert human food to ectoplasm, just like how food in general here could become ectoplasmic.

Jack sounds more than a little excited, “so! How’s it taste!?!”.

Danny rolls his eyes, slightly embarrassed, “spicy cream cheese”. Jack looking excitedly giddy just makes Danny genuinely blush, though a bit happy that he made him happy. And he was actually hungry so fuck it, he’s eating his sandwich; that much ecto making his eyes green be damned.

Maddie makes a point to not react to his eyes going green -like they had when his ectoplasm was overcharged she notes- as Danny finishes off the ecto-wich. Lewis laughs and just shoves the pan at him.

Danny grumbles, “anyone else would get burned you know”. Lewis just shrugs with a grin as he moves to make something else, but vegan suitable; which hopefully won’t come to life. Everyone else -except Sam who chooses to lean against the wall- sit around the table. Jack and Maddie making a point to ignore the oddness of Danny woofing down the other two plasumwiches -much better name- straight out of the pan; the cold of his skin contacting the pan making a little bit of steam. Lewis attempts to take a subtle photo but of course Danny notices, giving the most suspicious sounding, “what's up doc?”, Lewis thinks is even possible.

“Eddie will get a kick out of this. Thing’s cropped, curb your paranoia”. Danny’s only response is a huff. The response Lewis gets back from Eddie nearly makes him choke though: Vee’s face sandwiched between bread and Eddie biting it/them; Lewis isn’t going to ask why he’s not wearing a shirt, but is wearing a tacky necklace (and of course his brackets, but he never takes those off). Lewis decides screw it, Danny’s friends knew, were just as weird, and that chat thing Tucker set up was almost disturbingly secure -yet they still used codes like paranoid little fuckers, and they were at least kinda cool with aliens; so he tosses the photo into the group chat, with a password to view though ‘cause why not be paranoid too; though it’s an obvious one.

Tucker, not surprising the doctor in the least, is the first to check and chokes on his food.

PDAXpda: @everyone

PDAxpda: what

PDAxpda: pray tell

PDAxpda: the fuck is that

Tiethief: space monster

Tiethief: and reporter mouth

NightShade: you suck at names

NightShade: @DPain do yer job

Just a little later Danny checks his phone and wigs out. His hair fluffing up a little like some anime bullshit, the legs swinging around probably ‘cause his tail is wiggling or something a bunch, the ecto in his eyes making tiny little sparks; Jack and Maddie watching the reaction more so with awe and curiosity than unnerved worry.

DPain: hdieksnhrjsHHUDJjhhudikwdhjHhdnsjdkoajbdhuejzk

DPain: zhHhudjnshakbusfjkabjhUSJJNhdkakbsjbuijdh

DPain: TINY MURDER COBOOB IS BLOB

DPain: TINY MURDERY ALIEN BLOB

DPain: FUCK ME DADSY

DPain: anyway

DPain: cjsinsbdhaihujsmkfhdkajhdnfcjai

DPain: space mon fine

DPain: othera meat puppet

DPain: djiafdwih

DPain: best blob be nommed

PDAxpda: first look at murder goo

Lewis looks up at the ceiling as he pockets his phone before spooning out the stir fry. Less breakfasty, but more edible. Giving Sam Tucker’s veggies and throwing some real bacon bits into Tucker’s. Danny takes a small plate even though he ate three bloody sandwiches -maybe the ectoplasm went somewhere else and thus didn’t fill him up?- and munches still looking overly excited.

Sam points her fork at Danny’s feet kinda bouncing around. He shrugs and snickers, “looks like I've got a few new roboticks”.

Which makes Jazz groan as she comes in, “ignoring that, what smells so good?”, looking Danny over slightly and quirking any eyebrow over his green sparky eyes.

Sam rolls her eyes, biting a pepper, “your parents’ made ghost food again”.

Maddie immediately sits up straight, “Dan did actually”. Jack practically cheering, “so it’s not just us!”.

Jazz mutters, “that’s not actually comforting”, because that means it’s either the house's fault or the utensils/cookware.

Sam huffs, “more reason not to have animal products”.

Tucker laughs, “more like reason to!”, and jabs a thumb at Danny. Who throws a quiet, “prick”, Tucker’s way.

Maddie shakes her head a little as the teens poke fun at each other. Yeah they knew and were used to it. Which was... probably good for Danny. Hurt a little to confirm though. She understands though; her and Jack will just have to continue to be better then.

Not too long later, Lewis is putting away leftovers, Jazz and Maddie are on clean-up duty, Danny’s eyes are back to fucking normal, and Jack’s giving the CyberSteps steps a once over.

Tucker nudges Danny, ignoring Jack doing the typical ‘can you feel this?’ thing, “so theatre’s open. Feel like taking your limbs for a test drive?”.

Maddie immediately pauses with her washcloth, making a point to sound stern, “only if Dan okay’s it, sweetie”.

All the teens look to Lewis, who smirks and fakes being unsure, “oh I don’t know”, relenting at the scowls, “so long as he’s not left alone I don’t see a problem with it”. Tucker immediately high fives Danny, before Jack steps back with a smile; letting Danny run only kinda coordinatedly up the stairs to grab pants.

Danny decides fuck it and opts out of shoes; the CyberSteps toes/boots look like, well, boots. Heading back down and the three friends walk to the door. Jack and Maddie smiling to themselves over the fact that Danny can actually walk around town with his friends.

Just as Danny’s reaching for the handle there’s a knock and Danny’s pretty sure he smells smoke... and that weird new smell from yesterday? Shrugging and opening the door to the sight of a guy who looked like hot garbage yet healthyish. His hair looked like a comb would get stuck in it yet smooth. One bloodshot eye, yet they were also totally clear. Clearly unbrushed teeth, though white. In a leather jacket with burn marks, off-white t-shirt, and torn-up jeans. And a cigarette in one had, dirt under literally every fingernail and in the nail-beds.

“Wow someone’s speed lightning”, the dude looks around, “your yard’s kinda not shit so I’mma just put this out in my pocket”, and shoves the cigarette into his pants. Danny watches the pocket smoke and slowly gain a new hole as the guy speaks, “so if it ain’t obvious, name’s Eddie. Eddie Brock”.

Danny blinks, gapes a little -which the guy smirks over, and laughs. Because yeah, this is exactly his luck.

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taelme · 4 years

Note

can you write a parent!au with Taeil where you both are taking care of your kid while their sick (maybe twins?) so you put them to bed or sumn. this is kinda a mess , I loved your Taeyong au with byul!!

genre: parent!au, established relationship!au, kind of slice-of-life, right? I think haha, domestic!au (fluff just alot of domestic soft parent taeil)pairing/s: Taeil / Readerword count: 3k+tw: nonea/n: thank u so so much for being patient anon!! im taeil biased and I love domestic aus so this was very much self-indulgent as well HAHA i hope you enjoy this!!

On days like these, you’d never appreciated Taeil’s presence more.

You were currently rushing over from the bakery you worked at part-time while the kids were at school, a privilege that was courtesy of the kind elderly woman who took you and Taeil under her wing when you were newlyweds.

Upon receiving the phone-call, your heart sank. You’d heard about a few of their classmates having fallen sick recently, not knowing that the flu virus would have spread so quickly to the twins, knowing it was only made worse with the awfully rainy weather you’d been experiencing.

Your only consolation as you were making your way to the preschool was that it was almost time for Taeil to get off work, meaning that you would get help to care for your kids soon.

The receptionist who you were pretty familiar with had greeted you with a sigh of relief, a young girl with a bubbly tone. You didn’t miss the sympathetic look she had given you as she buzzed you in, and you didn’t have to ask her to know that the sound of the crying in the distance belonged to your children.

Letting her lead you to their classroom, you spotted your pair of 2-year-olds, crying their hearts out as they sat on a mat away from the other students, the teachers desperately trying to soothe them.

“Look, look! Look who’s here!”

One of their teachers gave you a relieved smile upon spotting you, managing to successfully divert your children’s attention towards you, your toddlers standing up immediately and running over to your squatting form with a loud cry leaving their lips.

Opening your arms wide, you’d let them collide into you, rubbing their backs soothingly as you consoled them, “it’s okay, I’m here, I’m gonna take you home, okay?”

Their form teacher had made her way to you, letting the other teacher instruct the children to go to their respective seats, about to start another activity with them.

“We really didn’t want to disrupt you, but they seemed to be going through a lot of stress so we figured it was best to call you so they can go see a doctor,” the teacher told you apologetically, making you shake your head in dismissal.

“It’s fine, really,” you assured her, “I understand how hard it must’ve been with all of this going on,” you gestured towards the rest of the students who were talking and playing loudly amidst all that was happening.

“Will you be able to manage?” the receptionist had asked, though you knew it was simply out of sympathy since there wasn’t much of a way for her to help if you had said no.

Choosing instead to nod, you stood up, carrying your daughter on your hip and holding your son’s hand with your free hand, managing to usher then out of the class as the teacher explained the situation further to you.

You had to manage, anyhow.

Cursing mentally, you knew that you didn’t have medicine at home, since you hadn’t found the time to buy any since the last time Taeil fell sick. And your children’s tired-looking, tear-stained faces weren’t doing anything to lessen your worry.

You’d felt your son tugging on the fabric of your pants.

“My head,“ he whimpered, his features beginning to pull into a frown as his pout grew bigger, signs that you knew were the prelude of tears.

“I know, honey, that’s why we’re gonna go to the doctor now, okay?” you told him as you were helping him put on his shoes, your daughter clinging to you tightly as you did so.

“So that the doctor can give you and your sister medicine,” you explained, “then you guys will feel better, hmm?” you gave him a reassuring smile, watching your son nod slowly, feeling too uncomfortable to be anything other than compliant at this point.

Figuring you shouldn’t waste anymore time, you’d bid goodbye to the teachers, fumbling to get your daughter’s shoes on before you left the centre.

Like you said, on days like these, you were extremely thankful for Taeil.

Had he not chosen this neighbourhood for the both of you, you wouldn’t have been able to bring your twins to the doctors as smoothly as you did now. Though your shoulders were already beginning to ache from carrying your daughter with one hand.

Your son was snuggled up against your arm, staring at the elderly lady sitting nearby that was smiling at him, and you shifted carefully in your seat as your daughter was beginning to fall asleep on your shoulder, giving you a chance to phone Taeil.

“Hello?” You spoke, hearing the tell-tale sound of him clearing his throat.

“Hey, baby, what’s up?” you could practically imagine his smile.

You couldn’t help but sigh, huffing in spite of yourself, “the school called to tell me that the kids weren’t feeling well—”

“Huh? Where are you now?” you heard him pause to bid one of his colleagues goodbye.

“—so I’m at the doctors now, but there’s a few people ahead of us so we won’t be that fast,” you glanced at your queue number. You were about 3 consultations away.

You heard muffled noises on Taeil’s side, being able to faintly make out the sound of him bidding goodbye to someone.

“Okay, I’ll head over now, see you soon,” Taeil’s words came out calm, serving to lessen your worry slightly as you bid him goodbye and hung up.

Two patients down in the queue, you’d heard the bells at the door jingle to signal the entrance of another patient you assumed.

Looking up, you couldn’t help but smile, letting out a deep sigh of relief as you saw your husband walking towards you, raising his eyebrows in amusement as he spotted your half-asleep twins lying on and against you.

Upon being woken up by the harsh sound of the nurse’s partition being shut, your daughter had let out a whimper, her cries slowly growing as the discomfort started to kick-in.

Taeil had a smile full of affection on his face at the sight of his daughter, cooing and making soothing sounds at her as you attempted to ease her distress, you waited for Taeil to be done settling down before handing your daughter carefully to him.

“Why are you crying?” he cooed, bouncing her lightly on his shoulder as she had calmed down in the arms of her father.

You felt him lean over to give you a hug, pressing a light kiss to your cheek as you caught the whiff of a scent that was utterly calming, a scent that to this day you could only associate with Taeil. You resisted the urge to sink into his touch.

“Hey, baby,” he murmured.

You heard your son mumble something incoherent, looking up and mustering a tired smile for his dad as Taeil smoothed your son’s hair over, your son bringing a hand up to rub his eye as he wrapped his other arm around yours.

Stretching his arms out in a silent plea to be carried, you couldn’t help but smile, hoisting your son up onto your lap, letting him lean over to sling his arms around your neck, surprising you at his body temperature.

“He’s burning up,” you told Taeil, making Taeil reach over a hand to press it against your son’s forehead gently, the boy leaning into his father’s touch with his eyes drooping closed.

Taeil grimaced, glancing at the queue number currently being flashed on the board, “hopefully the next consultation will be done quickly.” He said, more as a consolation for you since he knew you long enough to be able to tell that you were worried.

Taeil leaned his head against the wall, his hand rubbing your daughter’s back soothingly, “did you have a hard time just now?”

You shrugged, giving him a reassuring smile.

“Not really, I’m just glad you’re here now,” you told him, earning a tight-lipped smile from him.

“You haven’t eaten yet, have you?”

You shook your head at Taeil’s question.

“I haven’t, but I doubt either of us have any energy to cook,” you huffed, earning a nod from him, his hand that wasn’t holding your daughter reaching over to grasp yours, his fingers interlocking with yours, resting your interlocked hands on his thigh.

“The kids probably won’t be able to stomach the usual food, anyway. We can just head next door to get something for all of us,” he said, referring to the small (but very well patronised) Chinese food restaurant that you frequented since your kids loved their soup.

Taeil yawned, blinking slowly as he looked at you with hooded eyes, “how were things at the bakery today?”

Your attention was temporarily diverted when you saw the board flash a new number, signalling that you were next in line. Taeil being able to sense your anxiousness, your mind clearly preoccupied with how you’d completely missed his question.

“Hmm?” you looked at him expectantly, curious as to why he was looking at you like that.

“Do you want to borrow my shoulder?” he asked, his tone light yet firm.

You shook your head, “it’s alright, you worked the whole day…you’re probably more tired than I am,” you explained.

Taeil gave you a look of disbelief, his hand coming up to smooth over your daughter’s hair, “yeah, you’re not fooling anyone—”

“Taeil, please. I’ll manage,” you gave his hand a firm squeeze, hoping your tone was as firm as the gesture.

You spent the next waiting moments zoning out, your son beginning to fiddle with your hair and giggling whenever he managed to tuck the stray strands behind your ears.

You’d felt Taeil tap your hand before you heard the ding of the queue number changing, “c'mon,” he got up with a grunt.

This elicited a giggle from you, trying your best to withhold your comment on how you were both getting old as you picked your son up with a light grunt of your own and carried him over to the doctor’s office.

You were thankful Taeil did most of the talking. You tended to trust him more whenever it came to the more serious matters like these, and of course, you knew this was a serious matter, but you couldn’t help but swoon at Taeil’s demeanour. Fortunately, you weren’t the one that was explaining to the doctor, you wouldn’t have been able to focus for very long.

“Can you bring watch the kids first? I can go and buy the food while you’re waiting,” you told Taeil, seeing him nod at you, prompting you to go as he led your children to the reception area, being able to faintly hear him telling them you were going to get their dinner.

The grandma that ran the restaurant had recognised you, asking you many questions about how you were and how your family was doing while you waited for the food to be prepared.

“Did you come with your husband?” She asked.

You nodded, an unconscious smile making its way on your face as you thought about Taeil, “yeah, he’s next door waiting for the kids’ medicine.”

She gave you a smile, the kind you would give at a cute animal or an adorable baby, “you two are so sweet, send my regards to him and the darlings, okay?” she told you.

Casting a look behind her, she’d stood up, briskly walking over to the kitchen and coming back out with your food orders, “thank you, sweetie.”

You shook your head, thanking her for the food before going out of the restaurant, seeing that Taeil was already waiting outside the doctors for you, pointing in your direction to alert your kids.

“Look! Your food is all ready, now we can go home!” Taeil said in an overly-enthusiastic tone, waving your twins hands in the air to get them in a more excited mood.

Your daughter giggled at Taeil’s behaviour, Taeil’s tone managing to get her excited at the thought of food, and you took your son’s hand as you walked back to where Taeil parked the car.

You could hear him humming a song absently as you both strapped your kids into the car seat, the familiarity of it serving to calm you down (which was Taeil’s goal). Letting him drive, you’d spent the ride in relative silence, aside from the sound of Taeil’s music, until you were home.

“We shouldn’t shower them, should we?” You asked, looking to him briefly for advice as you opened your front door, ushering your son in with an excited sound, making the boy erupt in a fit of giggles as he waddled in the direction of his room.

Taeil hummed, his lips twisting into a thoughtful purse, eventually shaking his head, “I remember my grandma telling me that you should give them a sponge bath, she used to do that when we were children and we were running fevers,” he recalled.

Humming in acknowledgement, you nodded, leading your kids to the bathroom as you prepared whatever you needed.

Taeil squat down next to your kids and helped them out of their clothes, pulling his sleeves up to his elbows as he helped you to wash them.

After you were done, you’d brought them to the dining room to eat, thankful that they were compliant even despite the discomfort they must be feeling.

Your son pushed back Taeil’s hair that was falling out of place with a giggle as Taeil fed him, the sight alone enough to make you smile.

“What are you doing, baby?” You asked.

Your son turned to you with a smile, his hands moving to cover Taeil’s forehead. Swallowing his mouthful of dumplings, he spoke, “daddy’s hair is too long, he can’t see.”

You pressed your lips together in your attempt to stifle your laughter, shooting a look at Taeil who simply sighed in agreement, “you’re right, I think I’m due for a haircut too.”

“I think daddy will look cute with short hair, don’t you think?” You asked your daughter, feeding her the last bit of her dumpling as she looked at Taeil curiously, as if trying to imagine what he would look like before nodding her head vigorously, her eyes pulling into small crescents as she grinned at you.

Taeil scoffed playfully at you, “I’m cute with any hair.” Making you laugh, shaking your head at him, turning to scoop the last of your daughter’s food into her mouth.

“All done,” you sing-songed, standing up to dispose of the food packets, cheering internally that there were no dishes that needed to be done.

Leading your kids back to their room, you’d almost cooed at the sight of how readily they’d gotten into bed with their fever patches on their forehead, excited that Taeil was about to read them their bedtime story.

Soon enough, you could tell they were beginning to doze off, murmurs of ‘goodnights’ leaving them before they’d forgotten all about the story, not seeming to care what would happen to ‘Curious George’ anymore as their breaths evened out, their tiny figures clutching to their bolsters tightly.

Taeil’s eyebrows lifted as he carefully pulled the book from the bed, setting it on the bedside table before turning to you with a tired smile.

Walking out of their room, you saw him raise a hand up to you, not being able to help but laugh as you gave him a high-five, feeling his arm go around you to rub your arm soothingly.

“We did it!” He murmured as triumphantly as he could without waking the kids, earning a groan of relief from you.

“For today,” you sighed, “you should’ve seen them at the centre, they looked like they were in so much pain. Let’s just hope they recover soon.”

Walking into your bedroom, you’d gone to shower first, Taeil lounging on the floor next to your bed using his phone as he waited. You were done quickly (despite the ache in your shoulders), letting Taeil shower as you took your time to get changed, searching through your drawers to find pain-relief patches.

Going over to your kids room, you’d turned on their night-light, sitting at the small chair you had near their bed and basking in the calm of their room for a while, the sight of them peacefully sleeping serving to calm your heart down a little more.

Taeil figured you were in the room when he hadn’t seen you in your bedroom after showering. Going over to your kids room after changing and opening the door slowly to find you in your children’s room, walking over to you and holding his hand out for you to take.

He’d looked different now, so much younger in his sleeping attire, his simple shorts and t-shirt a big contrast from his office-wear, his hair still slightly damp and messy from being tousled by his towel.

“Ready to go to bed?” He asked, earning a shake of the head from you.

“Me neither,” he huffed with a smile, stretching out a hand for you to take, and you’d let him pull you back to your room.

Sitting on your side of the bed, Taeil made his way over after turning off the light, the small lamp on your beside table casting a warm glow on where you were. About to pull you over, Taeil frowned upon spotting the pain relief patches on your bed.

“What’s wrong?”

You shook your head, setting your phone down and turning, seeing him holding up the box of pain-relief patches, “nothing, my shoulders just kind of hurt, I think it’s my sleeping position and carrying the kids just now made it hurt a little worse.”

Taeil frowned, beckoning you over to the bed as he sat behind you, cross-legged, one of his hands going up to rest on your shoulder nearer to your neck, “here?”

You brought your hand up to grasp his, moving it just slightly, “here.”

Taeil tut his tongue in feigned annoyance, already beginning to dig his thumb into your shoulder, “you’re almost as stiff as me,” he snickered, “you see, this is what happens when you don’t let me take care of you more.”

You rolled your eyes, not being able to retort when you’d felt him apply more pressure on your shoulders, letting your eyes close briefly at the sensation, not knowing how much time had passed before he stopped, letting out a small huff of amusement.

“Better stop now, wouldn’t want you falling asleep like this.” He helped you paste the patches on your skin, tossing the box onto the nearby work desk, and you turned around to face him.

“How was work?” You asked, hearing him hum.

“The usual, I guess, there wasn’t much going on today other than working on my marketing proposal,” he yawned, “oh, right, Johnny told me to tell you he says hi,” he huffed, lying down on his side of the bed, his palm going under his pillow as he looked at you from where he lay.

You couldn’t help but laugh, “that’s cute. Can I bring over some lunch next week?” You lay down, rolling over onto your side to face him, feeling him roll over so he was facing you as well.

“For me? Or for Johnny?” He teased, making you gasp.

“Fine, I’ll just bring it for Johnny then since you don’t—”

“I’m kidding, I’m kidding. Of course, you can.” He was quick to make a disclaimer, lest you really show up without his lunch. You sighed, shooting him a harmless glare.

“I think I’ll stay home tomorrow to look after the kids,” you yawned, hearing him whisper a small thank you, his thumb rubbing the skin of your waist gently, a yawn leaving him as well.

“You know…” you began, “today while everything was happening, there was just one thought that kept popping into my head.”

Taeil sniffed, nodding at you as he blinked slowly, prompting you to continue, reaching one of his hands out to brush your hair behind your ear, feeling the cold metal of his wedding ring graze your cheek in an ever so feather-like manner as he pushed your hair away from your neck absently.

“How good this neighbourhood is?” He joked, making you scoff.

“Yes, that was one,” you smiled, “but the other thought was…how thankful I was for you.”

Taeil fell silent at that, simply looking at you with a tired smile on his face, your words seeming to have filled him with even more love for you, if that was possible.

You heard stories about your friends who were struggling to take care of their kids when both they and their partners were working, and you knew that choosing to sacrifice your job temporarily was a choice you were willing to make, but you were thankful you had someone like Taeil by your side who was more than willing to do his part as a father, most of the times doing more than the bare minimum.

“What?” you broke the silence, not being able to handle him staring at you like that any longer even though you’ve been together for so long, making him shake his head, his movements almost seeming slower as he shifted closer, his hand going under your chin gently as he pressed his lips against yours.

Pulling away, he’d let his forehead rest against yours gently, a silent acknowledgement of your words.

“Love you,” he murmured, making you pout before leaning over and closing the gap between the both of you, kissing him a little longer this time. Pulling away reluctantly, Taeil had wrapped his arm around you, pulling you closer so your head was now resting on one of his biceps, your arms wrapped lazily around his torso as well.

“Goodnight,” you murmured.

Taeil rubbed your back gently, “‘night.”

#taeil #nct taeil #moon taeil #taeil scenarios #taeil au #taeil imagines #I love taeil :(#nct 127 taeil #nct u taeil #taeil fluff #married life!au #domestic!au #established relationship au #hey google play that should be me #requests #husband!taeil #twins are so cute im sad

155 notes · View notes

g7mafiascenarios · 4 years

Text

His Sudden Kindness.

synopsis : It was obvious that the cold mafia leader has a soft spot for his childhood lover. It’s up to him to step up his game in order to talk to her.

characters : Lim Jaebeom, Moon Soojin, Moon Hyunjae

genre : mafia!jb, got7!mafia

a/n : i can’t say fluff but maybe a little, oh and maybe some swear words

“Thank you and we will come again as your repeat customers!”

“No problem! Thank you again!” Soojin exclaimed happily as she was holding the door for a few customers who had filled hands, seeing them waving to her.

Soojin watched them walk further till she couldn’t see their figures, turning to the corner as she sighed in relief.

It was a busy day for her and she has been cutting prickly leaves and dead petals all day, decorating the exterior of her shop with a bunch of bright and dark big flowers as she already catches attention from passer-bys.

Some people recognize her as the MOON Enterprise’s CEO’s daughter while some recognize her as the bright, helpful and kind girl who would always spend time in the shop as they walk past her shop, seeing the girl through the clear window glass making herself busy wrapping flowers all day.

Her shop got attention from all sorts of customers. From elderly women who have a liking for daisies, ederly men who buy red roses for their wives, young couples from school, office people - she noticed most of them were her colleagues in MOON headquarters to adults.

There were even kids who just randomly asked Soojin for sunflowers.

Soojin who has a kind heart and loves kids would give them sunflowers for free to only return by their parents apologizing to her which she would always tell them that it is fine.

Soojin was somehow popular around the city.

Her attention fell to the pinned note on the board to find a red one, just by the cash register - seeing its request.

“Oh no, it’s the Lims,” muttered Soojin as she took out the red note, then checked the store fridge to see the request from them and she knew where the next location should be.

She already asked Hyunjae to pick her up in about an hour, so wanting to remind her older brother, she decided to give him a call through her flower shop’s phone line.

“Hello?”

“Hey Hyunjae! This is me! Picking me up in about an hour's time?”

“Well�� about that…”

There was a slight pause on the other line and Soojin immediately frowned, somehow feeling nervous about what he was going to say.

“I can’t make it, I already sent someone to pick you up,”

“Oh… Okay.. Something happened at work?”

“Kinda… It’s nothing serious, so don’t worry.”

“Alright, I’ll give you a call if there’s anything.”

“Roger that. Bye sis.”

“Bye,” muttered Soojin, finally putting down the phone with a sigh before starting to prepare the bouquet of flowers for the Lims.

She was too into her work, trying to make the flowers as clean and wanting to make the bouquet visually aesthetic, she scored a first class for this - when the sound of a car engine made her jump a little.

Soojin glanced towards the clear window, to see a luxury car parked right outside her shop. As soon as the window of the car slides down, Soojin’s eyes slowly went wide - to see a very familiar looking pair of eyes staring at her from the passenger seat.

She was already keying the phone number in a hurry and pressing the loud speaking button, not bothering the privacy. In just 2 rings, he picked up the call.

“Is he there?”

“Are you freaking serious, Hyunjae?!”

“What? It’s just Jaebeom…?”

“Just?! Hyunjae! He’s the next CEO of the hotel I am working for! It’s like asking your boss for a drive,”

“I’m aware he is the next CEO, Soojin - and… to be honest I can’t relate since I am going to be a boss myself so…”

Soojin slapped her forehead, hearing how dumb Hyunjae sounds like on the other side - at the same time she was losing her mind.

“Why are you so scared of Jaebeom anyway? He’s a nice guy,”

“Nice?! That’s funny. All I know is if I made him mad again just like the other day, who knows he will kill me,”

“Moon Soojin. That’s not funny and no, he won’t kill you. Heck he won’t even lay a hand on you. Trust me, lil sis. Stop being a pussy and woman up. I have to go! Call you later!”

“Hyunjae!— Great.”

The beeping sound of the phone indicates he ended the call, causing her to sigh loudly while putting down the phone in an attempt to stop the sound.

“He’s right, you know.”

Soojin immediately jolted, hearing the voice as she quickly looked up to see him leaning against the fridge, his hands placed in the pocket of his business pants, just across her.

How did he even enter the shop when there is a class doorbell where when people enter the shop, it will automatically make a sound as an indication they entered.

“How long have you been standing there?” Soojin questioned, trying her best not to sound or look as frightened as always. Jaebeom noticed this as he decided to let his guard down - he came here for a reason after all.

Which is to make her talk to him, as a friend. Not as what she just mentioned to his older brother.

“Well.. not long, but yeah. What Hyunjae said is right. I am nice.”

His response made Soojin chuckle slightly, as she realizes what she has done - immediately covering her mouth.

Jaebeom raised an eyebrow as his eyes decided to move towards the interior design of the shop, admiring how pleasing it looked though he had no interest in flowers.

Maybe because he was interested in the owner of the shop.

This caught Soojin’s attention, seeing him looking around the room - analyzing his features and noticing that he had an eye mole on his outer eyelids.

That’s weird, someone that I knew had eye moles but I can’t seem to remember who it is,

Other than that, he has a sharp jawline and not to mention his piercing eyes.

“Did you decorate the shop all alone?” Jaebeom decided to break the silence, immediately caught Soojin staring at him. He let out an obvious smirk, taking a few steps towards her.

“Checking me out? Need me to come closer?”

“Woah! Not so close, Mr Lim!” Soojin exclaimed flusteredly, taking a step backwards seeing him getting closer to her.

Jaebeom let out a slight smile.

“It’s Jaebeom, Soojin. You don’t have to be so formal and I’m not your boss as what you said to Hyunjae.” Now Jaebeom’s voice turned serious, his eyes never break eye contact with hers.

“We’re business partners and I appreciate it if you could stop saying I’m your boss. It doesn’t sound pleasing to me.” Jaebeom sounded hurt, though he doesn’t look like it which makes Soojin confused slightly but still obeyed what he said.

“Okay.. I’m sorry if I hurt you in any kind of way since you sounded a little hurt,”

“I’m glad you figured it out,” Jaebeom muttered slightly with a little smile.

Soojin was amazed at how amazing he looked when he showed that smile. It was a slight smile, but still it considered a smile.

That really sums up a mafia leader, attractive when he smiles or smirks but scary is angry.

“I’ll be outside while waiting for you to get ready,” Jaebeom pointed out by his thumb, earning a nod from Soojin.

As soon as the bell rang, Soojin immediately took out her apron and proceeded to rush herself.

For the first time, Soojin felt nervous riding in a car with someone.

Not just someone.

“Why can’t you just relax, Soojin? I won’t bite you and I would never, would not, could never and mostly I don’t intend to even kill you.. Just like you said to Hyunjae.”

They stop at the red light, which makes Jaebeom easily turn towards Soojin, seeing her side profile - her usual side partings covering her face. Soojin surprisingly turned towards Jaebeom with a raised brow.

“Are you offended by what I say to Hyunjae?”

“If you want me to be honest, yes I am, Soojin.” Jaebeom muttered before stepping onto the pedal, driving straight as the light turned green.

“Well… I’m sorry…? Look I— I find you scary okay?! So it’s normal if I had the impression of you!” Soojin exclaimed a little, earning a slight amused smile from Jaebeom.

“I’m disappointed but you’re not wrong though… Kids even find me scary, there was once a kid bumped onto me just by the lobby and as soon as I made eye contact, he ran away while bursting into tears. It’s embarrassing..” Jaebeom ranted with a sigh, causing Soojin to chuckle while trying to cover her mouth.

“Maybe you should lower your gaze, Jaebeom. Do you remember the day I bumped onto you? Maybe you could just make a 2 second eye contact then look away or smile slightly.” Soojin explains not realizing what position she was in, then not hearing Jaebeom’s response, afraid that she offended him.

“I’m so—

She was cut off by Jaebeom chuckling, a soft and genuine one, obviously taken aback by Soojin as she turned towards him with a shock expression.

“Believe me I tried doing that with others but it seems I scare them away more, so I just live it that way..” Jaebeom answered, glancing towards Soojin with a smile.

This is the moment that Soojin feels like she is mesmerized, his genuine smile was the most beautiful thing she had witnessed.

It was so pure, and it could make her fall for Jaebeom if he kept smiling at her. But of course that won’t happen, she thinks that she was just an acquaintance to him.

“But in seriousness, I’m really not that scary.. unless one decided to test my patience,” answered Jaebeom slightly turning towards Soojin, seeing her loosen up just by looking at her untense shoulders.

Soojin finally smiled while nodding slightly.

“Okay then, I believe you..” muttered Soojin as she looked away from Jaebeom, and in coincidence this made Jaebeom smile widely.

“...And I believe we have reached my parent’s building,” announced Jaebeom as he immediately parked the car, rushing out of the driver seat to become a gentleman- helping Soojin out of the car with opening the door for her and helping her to get the bouquets of flowers to her.

Now they were just standing face to face with Soojin holding onto the bouquets while Jaebeom had his hands formed into a fist in an attempt to calm his beating heart.

“I’m sorry for burdening you, well.. mainly my brother..”

“Don’t mention it and you don’t have to apologize everytime okay? You didn’t do anything wrong. The one who should apologize would be me,” confessed Jaebeom, his voice becoming soft as he tried to make eye contact with her.

“What for? You didn’t do anything wrong… other than looking scary and being a dick— I mean, being mean,” Soojin cuts herself off before revealing her true self, but Jaebeom was smart enough to catch her words.

“Dickhead? Maybe sometimes I am a dickhead,” Jaebeom shrugged slightly, seeing the shocking face on Soojin’s face - causing him to chuckle, his hands were rather fast than his brain as he pinched her cheeks.

Causing Soojin to gasp dramatically.

“Hey! You’re lucky my hands are preoccupied! I would already smack you on the head!” Soojin frowns deeply, her cheeks puffing out and that made Jaebeom relive his childhood memories - earning a smile from Jaebeom.

“I would wait for that day to happen. Just saying, it seems you are going to be late if you keep talking to me… not that I wasn’t enjoying but..” informed Jaebeom and Soojin can’t help but roll her eyes, then letting out a smile.

“Thank you for driving me, Jaebeom. Aren’t you going in too?” Soojin was about to take a step but stop immediately, turning towards him - seeing Jaebeom leaning against his car with folded arms.

“I have to attend a meeting with a friend in his own headquarters so go ahead,” said Jaebeom simply, smiling a little towards her as Soojin could only nod slightly as she continued walking.

“Soojin!” Jaebeom called out, causing her to whip her body towards his voice, seeing him standing in front of the driver’s seat door.

“I’ll see you around,” Jaebeom yelled slightly since they were a little far but still near for them to see each other.

Soojin waved at him, then to see him reply in the same gesture.

Jaebeom watches her, from talking to the receptionist then to entering the lobby as she disappears in the elevator with a wide smile from the driver seat.

To think that kid Soojin was adorable, the Soojin he had converse with was more adorable - Jaebeom finds her kind of funny, clumsy and attractive.

This was the first step of gaining their friendship back and he wished that as days passed while getting to gain her trust and trying to continue to where they had left back when they were kids.

But the problem for him is, how is he going to continue to where they had left when she can’t even recognize him?

𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 ⇿ 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫

𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

#got7 scenarios #got7 imagines #got7 mafia au #got7 mafia #got7 mafia scenarios #got7 mafia imagines #got7 jaebeom #got7 jaebeom scenarios #got7 jaebeom imagines #got7 jb #what if he is a mafia

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fortune-fool02 · 4 years

Text

An Adopted Brother’s Job

Dio Brando x female reader

Requested by: @weeaboo-god

Alternative Universe

Thank you for the request, this is an AU where Dio isn’t twisted nor angry towards the Joestars. Please enjoy. This is kinda long.

Johnathan had noticed something different about Dio recently. Something that many people would fail to notice, but not him. Dio seemed... happier. There was a spring in his step that was never there before and it intrigued Johnathan as to the cause of such behaviour in Dio.

He doubted it was because of their graduation coming up, they have been aware of it for months and this joy was sparked in the recent weeks. He trailed back in his memories, trying to recall the events over the past few weeks. Nothing new had happened. Well, something did happen recently. They were introduced to the [Surname]’s daughter, [Name].

A lovely young lady with warm, welcoming eyes that melted away any irritation and leave them feeling calm, almost at peace. Soft, [Hair colour] locks that fell past her shoulders, strands tied into delicate plates. She was beautiful. Then it clicked in Johnathan’s head.

Did Dio have feelings for [Name]? The idea of Dio having feelings for someone was... a little bizarre for Johnathan as Dio seemed to show only an interest in himself. Yet, the thought made Johnathan smile; it was nice to think that Dio was holding an interest in someone and, as a result, Johnathan found it his job to help his adopted brother swoon [Name]’s heart.

Of course, it also gave Johnathan the right to tease Dio of this. After all, Dio did it to Johnathan when he found out about Erina so Johnathan saw it only fair to return the favour.

***

Upon walking into the library, Johnathan smiled when he saw Dio sitting in his chair beside the fire, head resting on his fist as his eyes scanned the book in his other hand.

“Hello Dio.” Johnathan greeted, making his way over to the blonde teen, who gave a hum of acknowledgement. When Johnathan reached his side, Dio tossed him a glance, “Is there something you need, Jojo?” he asked. He shook his head,

“I was just curious about something.” Johnathan said, watching as Dio turned the page. “Do you think father will invite the [Surname]s to the party next week?” Dio’s ability to mask his emotions was incredible but Johnathan knew where the weakness where in that mask. The small cracks that allowed droplets of emotion to slip through. The corner of his lip twitched lightly, his hand turning the page halted for a millisecond before continuing.

“Most likely. They’re close friends to father Jojo, you are aware of that.” The blonde pointed out. Johnathan only smiled,

“I know. But that means that [Name] will be here.” That made something flicker across Dio’s ember eyes before they narrowed at Johnathan.

“Where are you going with this? You seem oddly persistent about it.” Johnathan only gave Dio that sweet smile he often wore, a light shrug of his large shoulders.

“Your feelings for [Name] aren’t as hidden as you believe, Dio.” Dio’s head snapped towards Johnathan at that, eyes glaring into his soul. Johnathan couldn’t help the chuckle that left his lips at Dio’s reaction. “Don’t worry, I am certain I am the only one who has noticed the way you look at [Name when she isn’t looking. And how you are much happier when she is with you.”

As he spoke, he could see Dio’s eyes soften slightly upon realising Johnathan was right. He huffed, turning his attention back to the book in his hands.

“And what is the purpose for you bringing my feelings for [Name] up?” The blonde knew that Johnathan wouldn’t mention something like this without a reason. He could only hope it was not something stupid.

“Well, seeing as she is coming to the party next week, why don’t you ask her to dance and confess your feelings to her?” A bark of laughter bounced around the library, Dio almost throwing his head back as he laughed at that.

“Oh Jojo, you truly humour me at times.” He said once his laughter died down. Johnathan only blinked at him, “Oh, you’re serious.” Dio’s expression hardened at that. Johnathan nodded.

“And what is this wondrous plan of yours of me declaring my emotions in front of possibly fifty people? Including father and [Name]’s parents.” There was a sarcastic tone sprinkled on his words that Johnathan chose to ignore. Out of the pair of them, Dio was not the best when it came to emotions and declaring of such feelings. Unlike Johnathan.

That was why he was going to help him.

“Don’t worry, Dio.” Johnathan spoke, a bright smile on his lips. “I have a plan that will help you.”

***

This was not help. This was most certainly not help. Dio looked up at the large, hooved animal with uncertainty in his face. He should have suspected something was wrong the second Johnathan told him to wear a helmet and long pants he would not mind getting ruined. The horse snorted a little and the blonde male took a step back from it. Johnathan smiled as he jogged over to Dio and the two horses.

“JoJo, how is this going to help me confess to [Name]?” the blonde male asked, motioning to the two horses with confusion in his eyes. Johnathan smiled at him.

“Horse-ridding will allow you both to be close together and make you appear more interesting to her. Plus, she mentioned she like horses right?” Dio nodded, recalling the conversation easily. Johnathan motioned to the horses, “Then participate in something she enjoys.”

Dio rolled his eyes slightly and turned to the horse that was for him. Its study form stood tall, almost proud, with its chestnut colour fur. The saddle and reigns were already fixed onto it. “Well, how do you get on?” he asked. Johnathan gave a shake of his head.

“Not yet, Dio. You need to get acquainted with the horse first.” The blue haired teen said as he gently scratched his horse’s neck, earning a positive response from the animal. “It’s always good to have a bond with a horse before riding it.” Dio sighed softly. The things he was doing for love. He turned to the horse and rose his hand up slowly, gently stroking the side of its neck like Johnathan did. As a response, the horse nudged its nose against him and Johnathan smiled.

“There you go, he seems to like you already.” A smirk lifted Dio’s lips. “Now, he should let you ride him.” His head snapped towards Johnathan, all traces of his smirk and confidence gone.

“What?” Before Dio could react, Johnathan grabbed his waist and hoisted him up. “JoJo! Put me down! JoJo!” Dio shouted, his feet flaring about as he attempted to wiggle out of Johnathan’s grip.

“Stop fidgeting, Dio! You’re going to hurt the horse!” Johnathan shouted back, trying to keep balanced and avoid Dio kicking the horse. Sadly, with how much Dio was thrashing, Johnathan lost his balance and sent both of them falling backwards.

A low groan was heard from Johnathan as he laid there, fairly certain he landed on a stone or something.

“I hate you, JoJo.” Dio growled as he laid there, glaring at the sky. Johnathan chuckled lightly at that.

***

After a couple of days of practising and many, many moments of falling off the horse, Dio was finally ready. Well, as ready as he could get seeing as they had such a short time limit. He had asked [Name] to meet up with him the day before the party in the field behind the Joestar estate. She was a little confused as to why he wished to meet her there but didn’t question it.

When she reached the field, she was quite surprised to find Dio standing there, gently petting a chestnut brown horse. He turned to her, a confident smile on his lips.

“[Name], I’m glad to see you made it.” The blonde male said, shifting his attention to the [Hair colour] female. [Name] smiled lightly, looking between Dio and the horse.

“Dio, what on Earth are we doing here?” she asked as she approached him. Dio smiled, patting the horse’s neck again.

“Why, we’re going for a horse ride. What else would we be doing?” he spoke as if it was obvious though he understood what she was referring to. [Name] gently stroked the horse, earning a happy sound from the large animal.

“I just... didn’t think you were interested in horses. Or animals in general.” Dio chuckled lightly, ignoring the memories of repeatedly falling off the horse. [Name] didn’t need to know that. The blonde male shrugged lightly, hopping onto the horse and outstretching his hand out for her.

“Well, there are some things you don’t know about me, [Name].” The smirk on his lips only grew when he saw her cheeks dust red ever so slightly before she took his hand and he helped her onto the horse. Her arms wrapped tightly around his body and he smiled; lightly tapped the horse to tell him to go.

#dio #dio brando #jojo bizarre adventure #dio x reader #dio brando x reader #jojo bizzare adventure x reader #jojo #jojo x reader #dio phantom blood #phantom blood #phantom blood x reader #jojo phantom blood #au #female reader #reader insert

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ramblings-of-a-mad-cat · 4 years

Text

HPHM Patronus Headcanons

We all have one, and we all have ideas for what the characters would have. Let me know what you guys think too! Rakepick isn’t listed because we already know her Patronus, and I’m probably going to talk about OCs in a different post, or else I’ll add them later once I’ve finally made up my mind.

Rowan Khanna - Aardvark

I’m not the only one who sees it, right? Our wonderful Rowan is quirky and inventive and if they were a wild animal, they’d employ such brilliance and like the aardvark, devise a unique way to catch their food. On a more somber note, Aardvarks are nocturnal and they aren’t pack animals - making them a good symbol for a kid who preferred to stay inside and read rather than help with the farm, a kid who really didn’t have that many friends beyond the people they knew by association to MC. Still, aardvarks are weirdly adorable and if you tell me you wouldn’t pet one, you would be a liar.

Ben Copper - Field Mouse

A small creature that is able and hide very easily, definitely suits a character who was, for such a long time, very timid. A character who knew how to cover his tracks - whether or not he was using such abilities for shady reasons. Mice normally symbolize innocence and modesty, but they’ve also been seen as unlucky before. In more traditional times they were seen as symbols of dark magic, or even the underworld - since they could often carry disease, were hard to capture, and usually came from the ground. Mice do have that dark side, and so does Ben - we’ve seen it in Year Six, and he’s definitely still hiding something. That was never really resolved.

Penny Haywood - Mourning Dove

This one is pretty easy. Doves have always been seen as a fundamental symbol of innocence. A messenger that comes to banish worried or troubled thoughts, and usher in goodness in their wake. Penny is nothing if not a force for good. Characters like Merula have even lamp-shaded how irritating it is. However, the Mourning Dove in particular is known for it’s melancholy call, invoking the symbolism of losing a loved one. Between Scarlett and Beatrice, Penny has demonstrated that however helpful she is to her friends, she doesn’t know how to deal with her own serious problems. She’s a hopeful, caring person...but there’s a distinct sadness blended in as well. When someone innocent is hurt, the pain is that much worse for them.

Beatrice Haywood - Chameleon

Beatrice seems to be a person that absorbs a lot from the people she looks up to or associates with. Not just in personality, but in physical appearance too. In Year Five, by her own admission, she was a “Mini Penny” and in Year Six, she takes after Ismelda quite a bit. Chameleons are of course, known for their ability to blend in with their surroundings. It’s their claim to fame. What’s more, the Labord’s Chameleon hatches after the parents have already died, meaning they have to make it without any support from the grownups. Not that Beatrice doesn’t have support, but...the teachers/staff have failed to protect her in the past, and she’s well aware of that.

Merula Snyde - Cat

Oh, she is such a cat. Few characters come close to being as cat-like as Merula. From her haughty and arrogant nature tying in to how people often see felines, to her actually being very lonely and desperate for love. If you’ve never had a cat, then believe me, they want your attention - it’s just that most of the time they refuse to admit it. Merula is the same way. Because of her upbringing, she seems to gravitate toward being a predator animal, or at least wanting to be one. But also the kind of predator that would play with it’s food and make a game out of it. Think of it this way - given Merula’s background, she wouldn’t know what a laser pointer is. And with her stand-offish personality, she would totally try to investigate it like a little cat.

Bill Weasley - Koala

The Koala Totem is said to symbolize a gentle nature, and give a calming effect on people. Bill isn’t just the oldest brother to all the Weasleys - he looks out for everyone in the Cursed Vault gang. In general, Koalas are social and easy-going animals who have been known to represent kindness and family. They’re also known for being inactive - which I wouldn’t say that Bill is, but despite his Big-Bro energy, he never really tries to stop MC and their friends when they’re getting into mischief. He didn’t stop Harry from trying to make a deal with Griphook either. He just kinda lets people do their own thing most of the time, or comes along if he’s invited.

Charlie Weasley - Dragon

What can I say? I couldn’t resist. Sure, it may be unlikely that he would actually have a Dragon for a Patronus, but we do know that such a form is possible. Just very rare. Well you know what? This wonderful cinnamon roll has earned it. Doesn’t mean he would summon a full-grown dragon on his first attempt though.There’s a head-canon I’ve seen that I really like, which says that Animagus/Patronus forms can sometimes start as babies, and “grow” the better at them you get. Alternatively, his Patronus could literally just be a baby dragon. As for the breed, I’ll leave that open to interpretation, but I’m gonna say Norwegian Ridgeback.

Skye Parkin - Hyena

Frequently scavengers, and often seen as cowardly - Hyenas are still vicious and are typically able to claim the kill. Sometimes even driving off larger predators and stealing their hard earned prey. Which is exactly the kind of dishonorable thing Skye would do. She seems to believe strongly in her “pack” or her team, and depend on them to have her back even when she’s getting into nonsense. Traditionally, the Hyena is also seen as secular, with it’s constant laugh being an act of defiance. Skye is a cheerful person most of the time...but she has shown that she has little regard for rules or authority figures that are not her Dad.

Murphy Mcnully - Bottle-nose Dolphin

Dolphins are interesting. They have a reputation for being very sweet and excitable, but they can often be...shall we say, rude or invasive. I love Murphy to bits, but he doesn’t always know how to read a room, and he’s entirely open about his bias toward MC’s team - even more-so than Lee Jordan. That being said, Dolphins are social, playful, and intelligent creatures. With unusual abilities like echolocation, they certainly match Murphy in his quirky brilliance. They’re caring, helpful creatures that will actually aid other animals in need, including humans. Even though Murphy isn’t actually a player on MC’s Quidditch team, he might as well be.

Orion Amari - Elephant

Orion is such a wonderful character. He might be an oddball, but he’s truly wise beyond his years. Elephants not only represent wisdom, but have been known to symbolize loyalty, sensitivity, peace, stability...all the great qualities that Orion embodies. They’re known for taking care of the herd, just as Orion looks after his team. They might be a little quirky, with their large ears and trunks that most other animals don’t have...but Orion is quirky as well. Some say that with their trunks down, Elephants are accumulating positive energy to push through their trials, which takes me back to the scene where Orion gives MC Quidditch robes. I cry every time.

Erika Rath - Lion

To be clear, a male lion. I know that a lioness can be interpreted differently, and we already have a character with that Patronus. No, Erika is a pack leader. Even if she’s not the Captain of her team, they seem to depend very heavily on her. She’s also ferocious. I mean, tell me with a straight face that you could take her in a fight, or that you’d ever want to. A full grown male lion lives by the code that ass-kicking equals authority, even if they don’t want to. Furthermore, the Lion and the Hyena tend to be natural enemies. Sure, a lion could take a hyena in a one-on-one fight...but what if the Hyena had it’s pack for backup? We’ve all seen Lion King...and we’ve seen how Skye has targeted Erika.

Barnaby Lee - Brown Bear

Barnaby is a man of brawn, not brain, and that’s totally fine because is also a man of heart. He’s already pretty much a bear in human form. Ranging from sweet and dopey in modern media, like Winnie the Pooh, to being seen as warriors and symbols of courage in mythology- the Brown Bear captures all of the very best parts of our favorite Slytherin cinnamon roll. He’s a gentle giant, but as we see in Year Three, he’ll jump into action to protect those he cares about the same way coming near a mama bear’s cubs will act as her berserk button. I would say the Bear really symbolizes his character arc in Year Three.

Andre Egwu - Satin Bowerbird

This is still my favorite head-canon about Andre and you can pry it from my cold dead hands. The bowerbird, aside from being a bird and thus connecting to Quidditch - is a creature named for the “Bower” that the males build. A structure that can be made of anything from sticks to flowers to random human garbage, that they create specifically to show off to potential mates. It’s not a nest, and they don’t use it as one. It’s exclusively for mating. The Bowerbird has a sense of fashion, and it understands how to score a date. Tell me this isn’t Andre’s favorite animal. I mean it could also be the Peacock, but that’s just too obvious.

Tulip Karasu - Jackal

I can’t believe I didn’t see it before, but this animal is perfect for the rebellious Ravenclaw. Let’s start with the fact that in the bible, Jackals represent isolation, loneliness, and abandonment. It’s okay Tulip, I’m sure she’ll forgive you one day. Then there’s the fact that they howl to establish territory, not unlike the way Tulip guards her findings with little padlocks. They’re usually seen as opportunistic, to the point where calling someone a jackal tends to them being collaborator with a sneaky or mischievous agenda. In folktales, they’re depicted as intelligent and cunning pranksters - which is just checkmate, if you ask me. Even the Jackal’s coloring kinda suits her.

Ismelda Murk - Anaconda

Like the Snake, and the Hogwarts House that carries it as an emblem, Ismelda is a misunderstood person - but that doesn’t mean she isn’t dangerous. Much like how there are stories of Anacondas eating people, that have never been verified...Ismelda talks a big game, but has never actually used the Dark Arts. A snake sheds it’s skin, just as Ismelda seems to have shed any connection to her sister, or even the rest of her family. In particular, the Anaconda is actually beloved by cultures in South America, and it was once common to sacrifice one in the name of a happy marriage...of course, that’s a pretty raw deal for the Anaconda, and I can’t help but see Ismelda as a sacrifice for the sake of her sister.

Liz Tuttle - Tortoise

As fun as it might have been to just choose a lizard and be done with it, I think a Tortoise represents Liz far better. In so many ways, it’s the ultimate symbol of patience, endurance, and persistence. If Ismelda meets all the criteria of the Slytherin stereotype - Liz is the opposite. She’s one of the most resilient characters, having to work against people thinking she’s odd, people not trusting her because she’s in Slytherin, and people generally being at odds with her belief that all creatures deserve protection. It’s not only the Hufflepuffs that care for magical critters, and Liz proves that. The Tortoise represents her decency, and her steadfast attitude. What’s more, Tortoises tend to have very long lifespans. And if Liz can face off against chimeras and come out of it unscathed...she’s gonna live a long, long life.

Talbott Winger - Golden Eagle

I doubt I need to explain this one. In the past, Animagi have been show to transform into the same animal as their Patronus. It hasn’t been confirmed that this is a rule or anything, but it applied to James and McGonagall. Besides, an eagle just suits Talbott. He’s a dreamer, a drifter, and he’s got his head in the clouds. But he also knows how to fight - having been forced to leave the nest far too early. Birds of prey generally represent victory, courage, and overcoming adversity. Which Talbott does - he’s learning to let his walls down. Taking the first steps toward accepting the losses that he’s suffered, and moving on.

Chiara Lobosca - Labrador

Supposedly cats, dogs, and birds are the most common animals to have as a Patronus. Which makes sense, but if anyone out there was truly a dog, it would be Chiara. Between her self-sacrificing loyalty to Remus, to her protective instincts in shielding MC from Greyback, she is the physical embodiment of the “we don’t deserve dogs” sentiment. As sweet as she is, she’s also quiet, so I figured a large dog was more appropriate, especially a Lab. What’s more, she’s interested in Healing, and that reminds me of service dogs. Or even just dogs that can sense when their human is sick, and gives them therapeutic cuddles.

Jae Kim - Raccoon

An inventive, practical animal - the Raccoon is known for having paws with defined fingers that allow them to do most things with their “hands” and that’s actually where the word “raccoon” comes from. I feel like the Racoon’s elusive ways and their nature as scavengers pretty closely reflects Jae and his business. Raccoons are frequently associated with adaptability and illusion. Their ringed tails and masked faces being seen as signs of thievery. But you know what? These animals are far more friendly then media would have you assume. I know from personal experience. So I think a character like Jae who is shady and skirts the law, but is ultimately a good guy, would fit the raccoon well.

Badeea Ali - Owl

Despite the magical community’s affinity for them, Owls are said to be highly rare as Patronuses, according to Pottermore. Most people don’t have them, but I think she would. I don’t think it would suit anyone better than the elusive, creative Badeea. They tend to represent wisdom, good judgment, and knowledge. It’s sharp vision representing insight and observational skills. Only a truly clever witch could be a spell inventor at this age. What’s more, Owls are an integral part of the Wizarding lifestyle. They’re constantly helpful. MC would not have survived the nightmare that was the Peeves Chapters in Year Five if not for their most mystical friend.

Diego Caplan - Grebe

If you know anything about Grebes as birds, then you might not be too surprised. Then again, I hadn’t even heard of them until recently, but when I did I thought “Diego.” They’re waterfowls that are related to flamingos. But the Grebes have an entire ceremony dedicated to mating, which involves intricate dancing. They compete with each other for a female’s attention. I’m not saying Diego is jealous of Cedric cause he has a thing for Penny - all I’m saying is that Diego is jealous of Cedric because he has a thing for Penny. Beyond that, Grebes symbolize fearlessness and perseverance in Native American culture, supposedly bringing a calm, peaceful presence.

And that’s it! I did it, I actually did it! I didn’t think I’d make it this far. And if you did as well, thanks for checking it out. I’d love to know what you think!

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suca-loca · 4 years

Text

the wolf always blames the food chain.

Pairing: Demus, Intruality /kinda, but not really, let me know if I should remove the Intruality one/

Warnings: Gore, murder, death, eating human beings, ghouls, cursing, lewd language, morally gray!Janus, morally gray!Remus

Authors note: Inspired by the anime Tokyo Ghoul. You don’t really need background knowledge of the show to read this, but it would be best to search up “Ghoul, Tokyo Ghoul” to get a better understanding of what a kagune is and to see what a ghoul’s form looks like.

Summary: Patton doesn’t mean to kill her as much as he doesn’t mean to get caught.

——

“I’m sorry,” Patton sobs, spit and bits of human liver coming from his mouth more than words do. “I’m so so sorry, Remus.”

He holds her insides in his hands, but it is he who feels cracked open. The sins he’s worked so hard to keep at bay strewn out and about and on the walls for all the world to see. Because even when there’s a heart throbbing against his palm - not really pulsating at all, but moving so lifelike from how hard he shakes - he always ends up here. Making it about himself.

Remus inhales, a juxtapose to the very still chest merely a few feet away. “You’re a ghoul.”

He says it so calmly. Like he expected to walk into this scene after finishing a night shift at the hospital. As if this isn’t the first time he’s realized his roommate isn’t human.

Patton glances at the broken body sprawled between his legs. At the woman who now looks more like a ragged doll than the neighbor who helped carry his groceries just a day before. And then he stares at his kagune, bright and blue and solid, but with the fluidity of a river, cocooning itself between the split of skin on her stomach, stretching the wound more and more until the sound of blood oozing onto the living room carpet roars like a waterfall.

He looks up at his roommate, sclera coated in black instead of white and irises a shade lighter than the heavy red dripping from Patton’s chin. “I don’t wanna be.

“I want to be forgiven.” Patton wipes away the snot that drips from his nose, the tears that slide down his cheeks, unaware of the smears of blood he leaves in their place.“I want to be good. So, please, don’t turn me in.”

Remus grins. Like a monster under the bed would. Like Patton should. “Liar.”

Patton flinches back, more so from the shock than the accusation. This is not the reaction of a man terrified for his life. This is a man at the dealers’ table, holding the winning cards and knows it. “I’m not a liar! Who would choose this life? Having to constantly look over my shoulder, outcasted by the world, the killings - ”

“The power.” Remus cuts in.

Something snarls in Patton’s gut. “I don’t care for that.”

“Liiiiiiiiiaaaaar.”

“I am not a liar!” The thing inside him raises its hackles, pacing slowly. He releases a sob. “Lying is wrong!”

Remus laughs. Somehow a more sickening sound than the squelch coming from Patton’s kagune ripping itself free from the girl’s abdomen. “Nice to know the ghoul I caught red-handed - literally red-handed - has a good sense of morality. What’s next? You’re waiting for marriage? Haven’t even touched yourself yet to preserve some purity bullshit?”

“It’s because I’m a ghoul I’m so strict on myself about lying!” Patton cries. “The horrible things I’ve done to survive - ”

And like a drunk driver who thinks nothing can go wrong, Patton sees headlights in the shape of familiar amber eyes and there’s no time to step on the brakes before everything falls away. Please, she bawls, barely able to string the vowels together as easily as Patton can string her large intestine along and along and along and along. Please don’t do this.

Patton avoids looking at the crumpled body he towers over. “Why bother with the little sins when you’re doing the big ones?”

“Sins?” Remus’ eyes flicker to the cross around Patton’s neck. It hits Patton then that Remus’ gaze has been locked in on him this whole time, with the exception of the ten seconds he stared at the corpse when he first walked in. Patton should be glad the attention is gone, so why does he wish for it back? “Even after all this, you believe there’s a God? That you earned your way to the pearly gates despite all the lives you’ve fucked enough times over to make your bitch?”

Patton can’t help but instinctively clutch the jewelry. “Belief is all I have. I don’t deserve a place in heaven, but the least I can do is try to do better in other ways to make up for the hurt I’ve caused. That has to count for something.” When he lets go he realizes his cross is now covered in blood. “It has to.”

Remus steps closer, daring to enter the pool of blood that Patton was foolish enough to believe acted as a barrier, a warning. A threat.

“I can’t believe this shit I’m hearing! Do you mean to tell me murder cancels out because you tipped the pizza delivery guy more than twenty percent?!” Remus is shrieking now. He’s a city wire, spitting rogue sparks at Patton’s skin. “You don’t get to repent when you’re just going to do it again! There’s no point! As pointless as the creation made by your God where the left testicle hangs lower than the right one!”

Patton jumps to his feet, but it isn’t solid ground he stands on. The floor is slipping beneath him, with nowhere stable to go to.

“The point is to be a good person! I don’t get to just stop, Remus! I have to eat! I didn’t even let her in with the intent to kill her! I let her in because she wanted to borrow eggs and I didn’t realize she cut herself on something until I opened the door and smelled the blood!”

His hunger shrieks at the door because she’s there too. Two creatures as alive as the other. But this is a gladiator fight. The door shuts. He places his bets.

He didn’t know not to open the door, but he knew better than to close it.

Patton expects his voice to shake. He nearly flinches when what comes out is a deep rasp from the back of his throat. “I didn’t want to kill her. I… I just get so hungry.”

A grin slides over Remus’ face, as direct and chilling as a hammer to the skull, and the thought that comes next hits Patton just as hard.

He needs to get out of this mess the same way he got in it.

“The wolf always blames the food chain,” the hammer says, and Patton breaks.

The thing in Patton’s gut snaps its jaw, then strikes.

His kagune reacts first, shoving Remus to the wall so hard an audible crack whips through the air. His legs comprehend the danger - the thrill - right after, seemingly gliding over the floor from how fast he moves. By the time the human has opened his eyes his hands are pinned against his head and Patton’s kagune hovers just a centimeter above the center of his chest.

All done in less than three seconds. A testament to how inhuman Patton is, and yet he’s forced to wear their skin.

“I’m a good person.” His breath ghosts over Remus’ lips. Is it wrong he wonders if it tickles or stings?

Remus smirks.

Patton hopes it’s both.

“What you are,” Remus says, tilting his head to the right so that his cheek brushes against Patton’s forearm, smiling as if he isn’t the rodent in this mouse and cat game, “is a beast.”

Color spreads to Patton’s cheeks, sitting there like it has a weight of its own, reminding him of how wrong this is. How wrong he and Remus are, whether separate or together.

“There’s a wolf in you, pacing for the next chase. The poor thing’s been without a pack for so long,” Remus says softly. If Patton closes his eyes, he can almost feel Remus’ hands trailing up and down his stomach, softly, attentively - dare he say- adoringly, trying to find the lump of the wolf. Nails softly dragging before Remus’ fingers rest in between the curve of fat that ends where his hips start.

Perhaps it’s the thought of someone wanting to touch him willingly, wantingly, outside of those who hit or scratch or slap when he’s trying to fill his stomach for the day, that keeps the memories of why he’s been alone so long at bay. Better to focus on Remus’ half-lidded eyes than the day he was hidden under the floorboards by his parents at nine-years-old moments before ghoul investigators kicked down the door.

“How much longer do I have to rile you up before I can get you to face me as who you truly are?” Remus asks, slightly purring.

Kill him.

Patton should. Should kiss him and shove his tongue through the gap he always considered adorable before tearing out the teeth Remus still has left. Should kiss the scar under his chin that Patton bandaged after a bar fight went wrong and replace it with a newer, deeper, and unhealable one. Should kiss the freckles scattered across his cheeks like a galaxy and use the constellations to find out what order he should rip them out in.

Kiss him kill him kiss him kill him kiss him kill him kiss him kill him kiss him kill -

Remus turns his head slightly to, as if reading Patton’s mind, brush his lips against Patton’s forearms. “Not much longer, it seems,” Remus hums.

A gasp leaves Patton’s mouth. He steps back immediately, forearm burning.

But that’s not the only thing that burns.

“How dare you.” He spits, eyes wild, and kagune flickering like a hungry tongue. “Do not speak as if you know me when you have no idea what it means to be born wrong.”

At that response, anger flares up in Remus’ eyes. Patton almost sighs in relief when he sees it. It’s both relieving and terrifying to see Remus read him so clearly while Patton has no idea what’s going on in Remus’ playground of a brain.

And then he realizes he was a fool to think he understood Remus at all because a second later the human pulls off his shirt.

“Remus!” Patton stutters, face burning such an intense color of pink it makes up for the devoid of color on the corpses’ body at his feet. Before he can embarrass himself further with a failed attempt at a coherent sentence, Remus turns around and Patton’s eyes - curse his dumb eyes - don’t look away.

An unwelcome jolt of desire shoots through him, but it is instantly squashed when he realizes what he’s really supposed to be looking at. Multiple slashes, old, deep, and that look to be caused at the hands of a wooden ruler, vertically run along Remus’ back.

“You’re right. I wasn’t born wrong.” Remus looks over his shoulder, voice losing the edge of madness that makes him so him. “But my parents thought differently. So I understand the pain and hurt that comes with it.”

Remus throws the shirt aside and begins stalking towards him, somehow still talking in the present while Patton is stuck in the six seconds before when he realized Remus also has freckles on his back. “I could tell right away that you were like me. Deceiving others. Deceiving yourself. I just didn’t know why, so I promised myself not to say anything until I had all the facts. For the first fourteen years of my life, I tried to fit in the mold my parents made for me before I realized this isn’t a Cinderella story where the shoe fucking fits in the end. My mother thought the scars on my back were punishment for playing the note of a violin incorrectly. She couldn’t be more wrong. It was a punishment for lying to myself for so long. It came to me then that I can’t be what I’m not. I can’t lie to myself or others anymore.”

Patton doesn’t move away as Remus stops before him with the confidence of a man who didn’t just step over a dead body, too busy being pulled under by unending tides every time he gets too close to shore.

For a long time, he told himself lying was not as easy to stomach as mankind. And yet it’s all he’s ever done. All he knows. He rips his roots out from one life to the next. Created new identities whenever the police got too close to the truth. Learned to turn around when someone’s order got called out. He had that name once. He had them all. A coffee mocha for the Dylan that was friends with a boy who had purple hair and skin so pale Dylan thought bleeding would do him good. Four cheese empanadas for Barry, who coincidentally met a man named Logan Berry, who didn’t like him all that much but would punch in a discount for him, so Barry would leave a nice tip because that’s what nice people did and he wanted to be like those people. Not the wolf in sheep’s clothing.

When he resurfaced from the floorboards that day he was reborn amongst the cheers and applause of his neighbors congratulating the ghoul investigators for freeing the world from two evils. With his parents’ fresh blood squishing underneath his shoes as he made his escape out the back a horrible thought came to him.

The world thought him better off not being born at all.

Is that what would happen when death inevitably claimed him? No one to wail or grieve to prove he was loved. Not even a grave. His existence was despised. His death was cause for celebration.

And what was a nine-year-old to do with that information but change?

He is drowning. He can’t even scream unless he wants to make the death more painful. Maybe he should. Self-destruction is a very human thing.

Remus’ cups the ghoul’s face in his hands. A life raft Patton instantly clings to.

“And that’s the difference between you and me,” Remus says, voice the gentlest it can be with the edge of permanent madness laced around his tongue. “This goody two shoes people pleasure you play? It’s not you. It never was. So cut the bullshit. You are so much better than that. You always were. Live for yourself, not for others.”

Patton holds onto Remus’ hands, afraid once it leaves - because everyone always leaves - he’ll be made much emptier without it. He should not be feeling these things, least of all for this man, this human, when the air around him crackles with such a wrongness that it out wins Patton’s. No, worse. Better. It compliments his.

If she hadn’t been nice, hadn’t been so her, she wouldn’t have helped Patton carry his groceries. And so she wouldn’t have known he had a batch of plentiful eggs to lend after realizing she had none to make the brownies for her nieces’ upcoming birthday. She’s on the walls, on the carpet, on the couch, on his clothes, because she was what the world took advantage of: kind.

And that is why creatures like Patton survive. You do not make company with survivors and expect to leave in one piece.

He’s at the shore now. But he’s not the same man who went into the water. He has been homesick for a person he could never be.

“Why are you telling me this?” Patton asks, while also wondering what could possibly be, in the already long list of things, more wrong with him that he finds the calluses on Remus’ hands make his touch more comforting than it already was.

Remus presses their foreheads together. “Because I want you to know you don’t need to hide who you are around me. Ghoul or something else. You’re not alone anymore.”

Patton doesn’t know what it means that his kagune, a literal weapon of destruction, tentatively lingers around Remus’ waist wanting to wrap around it in a mockery of a hug. Or how he feels about his soulless eyes, meant to strike horror and fear into the hearts of his food, soften as it drinks up the dimples on Remus’ face and the crook of his nose.

He is saved from thinking too much about it when Remus speaks again.

“You’re beautiful.”

A beat of silence. At least, Patton thinks there’s one, the only beat he hears is the erratic beating of his heart against his chest.

“You… you can’t believe that” is what Patton finally says. Eyes wide and the room suddenly too hot and the smell of her is starting to fill up the room which is definitely what’s keeping him from thinking clearly, even though the smell of rotting flesh is not new to him at all.

Remus raises an eyebrow. “Well, it seems you missed the conversation we just had about not lying for others, so I guess I’ll have to start from the beginning. Ahem, you’re a ghoul - ”

“You’re insane.” Patton rolls his eyes, unable to stop the totally unnoticeable and not at all loud snort that escapes a second later. He nearly flinches a second later when he realizes how mean it could come across. Patton never said anything mean. Who is he now? Is this another mask or is the real him slowly peeking through?

Remus smiles. “And so are you. Let’s lose our minds together and drive off a cliff like Thelma and Louise.”

It isn’t a nice smile. Too much red gums and canine teeth, not sharp at all but giving off the impression that they should be. Everything about this human is sharp in the most troubling way. And yet, although it wasn’t the prettiest thing to look at, that doesn’t mean it didn’t make Patton feel something.

He’s pretty sure it’s the first real thing he’s felt in a long time.

With the last of his reserve crumbling away, he wraps his kagune around Remus and allows himself to indulge in the moment by closing his eyes. His hands pressed against the edge of his folded legs, pinky outstretched to lightly brush against Remus’ knee. It’s the smallest of contact, still, the pad of that same finger buzzes and sizzles in the most delicious way.

“All the prettiest flowers have thorns,” Remus speaks, an earnest look in his eyes that almost undoes the chords of chaos that make him up. “Flowers don’t cry when they prick someone’s thumb. So why should you? We are what we do to survive. You can either take accountability for your actions or let the shame eat you as easily as you eat others. The choice is yours, but dammit - ”

Remus pulls back slightly to get a good look at Patton’s face. There is an intensity and purpose in his body so rigid Patton fears he’ll break apart.

“I want you to choose to not only survive but to live, Patton.”

Patton stills, mouth suddenly dry. “... That’s not my name.”

Remus blinks. “Record scratch?”

“Patton was a name I gave myself not too long ago,” the ghoul forces out. “I’ve had others. As fake as the one I have now. My real name…” He takes a deep breath, feeling the water of the crashing tides lick at his heels, ready to pull him back in. “My real name is Janus.”

It goes quiet.

It can’t be an eternity, but that’s what it feels like to Pa - no, to Janus. If it’s weird on his own tongue, then what could it possibly feel like to Remus? Is this where Janus has crossed the line? A fake name somehow more of a deal-breaker than eating mankind?

His heart lurches at having had a taste of something… something he can’t really put his finger on, but he knows it’s something more, only to have it pulled out from underneath him. Will the pain in his heart stop if he rips it out? If that was what made this horrible emotion, this terrifying and numb feeling of loss to something that he shouldn’t have allowed to be his in the first place, stop he’d gladly do it.

Then, because Remus is full of surprises, Janus is pulled by the hem of his shirt into a kiss.

The kiss is anything but quiet. The kind of smooch you hear in some trashy, cheap porn production from a store that would allow a seven-year-old to walk out with. Remus shouldn’t be making out with him like this. Not when the crust of dried blood still lingers on Janus’ lips. Or when the stench of his latest kill sticks to him so thick his own kagune couldn’t pierce through it.

Yet Remus shows no sign of stopping.

Remus bites Janus’ lower lip and oh. Stars aren’t normally this close to the earth, right? Because that’s all Janus sees. In an instant his hands are gripping at Remus’ waist, holding on for dear life as Remus moves on to using his tongue for something other than giving Janus a harsh - but much needed - reality check.

When Remus pulls back, Janus unconsciously brings his hands to his lips, as if the action will somehow replay the moment. How is it that someone so human can unravel a monster such as himself so easily as breathing?

“Janus,” Remus says in awe, like his name consists of all the most heavenly sounds in a single word. Janus could listen to Remus say his name for eternity.

“Janus, Janus, Janus, Janus. I love it! I've never met someone who has a name with the word anu - ”

”We’re pronouncing it Ja-nice from now on, ” Janus says, immediately snapped out of daydream mode.

Remus pouts. ”Fine. You're no fun.”

”Am I?” Janus blurts out before he can stop himself.

There is so much he doesn’t know about himself. Where does he even begin to piece together who he really is?

Remus comfortingly squeezes Janus’ hand. ”Don't worry. We’ll find out. Together.”

Janus allows a small smile to slip on his face. He may not know who he is, but he knows what he wants.

“I’d like that.”

The two get to their feet, now that the moment has passed they are acutely aware of the underlying problem in the room.

“So, what are you going to do with the rest of the body?” Remus asks, approaching it to poke it with the front of his boot.

“Eat it, of course. I’m still terribly hungry.”

Remus whirls around immediately, a glint in his eyes similar to the ones found in kids wandering around Disneyland. “Can I watch?”

Obviously, Janus should be disgusted. Instead, a small blush coats his cheeks and he finds himself star-struck at the sight of the cute gap in Remus’ lopsided grin.

“Oh,” Janus purrs, already rolling up the sleeves of his shirt, “please do.”

#Sanders Sides #Remus #Janus #Patton #?#kinda???#let me know if I should remove the Patton tag #because I have no idea if this technically counts #demus #dukexceit #brief intruality

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grayluforever · 4 years

Text

My Top 10 Worst Dumbest Anime Relationships (My Opinion)

1. Inuyasha and Kagome Higurashi (Inuyasha)

Kagome is nothing but a whiny, manipulative woman-child who really has to get everything her way and always has to be in the RIGHT especially when it comes to InuYasha who at some times would point out the obvious to her and instead of taking it in strides and realizing her mistake she would unfairly make him SIT with those stupid beads around his neck. Also, InuYasha at the time was going through some serious personal, emotional issues of his own and trying to face the ghosts of his past and dealing with his former lover Kikyo being resurrected against her will. Kagome always tried to make it about herself when it came to that scenario with them and was always able to get the others to feel sorry for her. So yeah, it's not only her attitude (and her uselessness) but her treatment towards InuYasha which is something else that I have come to notice when you go back to watch it again is that those two can't get along very well and they can't seem to go almost a single day or even a week without bickering with each other and most of the time it's over the same stupid stuff.

2. Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno (Naruto)

I love Sasuke and after all he's been through I think he deserves better. I think I would have been okay if he ended up with Ino. It still would have been bad but atleast it's better? I don't know. I just don't like the fact that in the beginning Sasuke hated Sakura and payed no attention to her whatsoever. But all of a sudden in Boruto (It autocorrected to burrito ) they get married. It just doesn't seem right. In Naruto The Last they showed him in the desert walking around and stuff while Naruto and Hinata were having the whole movie dedicated to their romance. It's no secret that Sakura has been in love with Sasuke for a long time. It was even a dream come true for Sakura when the two were put on the same team together, but from day one the romance between them has always been one-sided. Sasuke originally had little to no interest in Sakura. Even after she admitted her feelings in tears, Sasuke seemed to care very little about her.It continued this way even after Sasuke attempted to kill Sakura and yet despite that, the two eventually got married and had a child. Unfortunately for poor Sakura, Sasuke is a bit of a deadbeat who's rarely ever home to be around his wife or daughter. If their relationship has proven anything, it's that Sakura has the patience of a saint

3. Gray Fullbuster and Juvia Lockser (Fairy Tail)

Juvia's attitude is also disgusting. During GMG, she fantasized about how good it would be if the Fairy Tail GMG Team had an injured member, that way she can be with Gray. Not funny. I didn't laugh and I didn't see anything funny. Then, Lucy did get injured at some point and she ran over and "acted" like she "could" help. Pathetic. She couldn't do anything and she acted as if she cared when she treated Lucy bad all the times that she has. Disgusting.....

4. Ichigo Kousaki and Orihime Inoue (Bleach)

Her feelings were never the slightest bit disturbing. Instead, her love was shown to be unconditional and incredibly selfless, to the point that Ichigo is the one to pursue Orihime in the end without her ever having to confess first. There was no pressure or obligation there; she was never “trying” to get Ichigo to fall in love with her—he just did. Just like that. People just tried to twist her feelings into something negative because they didn’t want her to have feelings for Ichigo, because she wasn’t the girl they shipped him with.

5. Goku and Chichi (Dragon Ball)

Maybe this one was doomed from the start, considering Goku thought marriage was a kind of food at first. Goku may be DBZ's most powerful warrior, but his skills as a husband and family man could use work. Goku's mind is focused solely on fighting and getting stronger, which leaves little time for things like spending time with his family or getting a job to support them. It's not that he doesn't care for them, it's more that he doesn't understand that they need him on a personal level. On the other side of things, Chichi's high expectations of Goku cause her to often lash out when she feels he's not doing his part. Between Goku's naïve, free spirit and Chichi's angry outbursts, it's clear they're just not compatible. It says something when even someone like Vegeta somehow makes it work with Bulma.

6. Kirino Kousaka and Kyousuke Kousaka (Oreimo)

There's absolutely no reason why these two should even be together. Kyousuke and Kirino have no chemistry. In fact, most of their interactions are just arguments and verbal abuse. Yet somehow, even though there were many girls that surrounded Kyousuke that would make for a better romantic interest, he ultimately chooses to be with Kirino for seemingly little reason. Already it's a bad Tsundere romance, but addressing the elephant in the room makes this go from uncomfortable to extremely icky. They're also brother and sister.

7. Yuki and Yuno (Future Diary)

Yuno is a token Yandere character, which means she can be sweet one second and then utterly psychopathic the next. She is obsessed with the anime's main character, Yuki. Yuki does not have the same feelings towards her but decides to manipulate her to his advantage since she is smarter and stronger than him in combat. Due to Yuki's fear and needing Yuna to protect him; he endures being drugged and kidnapped by Yuna and her attempts to kill his friends. He even continues to follow through after discovering that she killed her own parents.

8. Natsu Dragneel and Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail)

Natsu and Lucy are supposed to be the two main protagonists. Now, I’m not saying that the two main protagonists can’t be together! What I’m saying is after seeing it so much in different anime’s and manga... It just gets a little old, and kinda boring. Just because they’re the two main characters doesn’t mean they HAVE to be together. That really doesn’t make sense. Lucy has told Natsu many many many many many times to not invade her privacy. Not to touch her in certain places. And what does Natsu do? Exactly that. Every. Single. Time.Invasion of privacy, breaking and entering, unwanted touching. That is not romantic in the slightest. It’s more harassment if anything. Natsu does not respect Lucy. I see him respecting Lissanna, Erza, Juvia, Levy... But not Lucy.“Oh, but Gray has done it before!!1!2!” Yes, but he only did it once, Lucy told him not to, and he never did it again.Not only that, but Lucy yells and Lucy kicks him over and over again. You’d think it would’ve stopped the first time around. But no.You see... Lucy needs someone who is mature, someone who would respect her wishes, and someone she can handle being in a romantic relationship with... That someone’s not Natsu Dragneel.For Natsu, he needs someone who knows how to handle him, someone who understands him, and someone who accapts Natsu for who he is and doesn’t get at him for just being himself... That someone’s not Lucy Heartfillia.

9. Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyuga (Naruto)

I hate NaruHina for a number of reasons. I hate the idea that when there is a threesome of main characters that the main guy can’t be with the main girl! The same nonsense happened in Harry Potter and it is just utterly annoying. Then there is this big idea that NaruHina and SasuSaku are "canon" when they are not. Canon is defined, usually as something that happened, is it not? That makes the ONLY Naruto canon couplings Minato/Kushina and Asuma/Kurenai. Naruto and Hinata have nothing in common. Fans of the couple claim that she “loves” him. She even said so! *gasp* So did Sakura, and Sasuke proceeded to knock her ass out and leave Konoha forever. Have any of these fans ever read a shojo comic? How many love confessions are unrequited? Hell, even may shonen comics have many confessions of unrequited love; look at ANY harem-style comic like Love Hina or Gacha Gacha! Shonen or not, Naruto does not follow any type of formula where every confession of love, however rare, is returned. Naruto is a strong person, but a submissive personality. At least I think so. Hinata is much to tame for him. She would not be able to curb him. He needs a girl like Sakura or Temari who is rough and has no qualms about smacking him back into place. At least when Sakura is with Naruto, she acts like herself instead of a blubbering fangirl.

10. Louise Francoise Le Blanc De La Valliere And Saito Hiraga – The Familiar Of Zero

Louise and Saito are probably one of the most infamous examples of a Tsundere romance. After accidentally summoning Saito to her world from Japan, Louise makes the poor boy her familiar and proceeds to verbally and physically abuse him for any little thing.

Even though he's very clearly a human, Louise treats Saito more like an animal. Eventually, the two begin a relationship, even though nothing really changes in their relationship. Why they decide to stay together is a complete mystery, since their relationship feels both disingenuous and neither side does anything to earn the other's affection.

#anti inukag #anti gruvia #anti ichihime #anti sasusaku #pro healthy relationships #anime #anti oreimo #anti kirino kousaka #anti natsu x lucy #anti naruhina #anti kishimoto #anti nalu

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jess-the-vampire · 4 years

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Sky And The Forces Of The Multiverse, Chapter 36

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"Sky?"

Sky mumbled in her sleep, trying to bat away the person that was shaking her arm. Couldn't she just get a nice night's sleep after what had already been a rough day? Who was waking her up? She felt them shake her more fiercely and with a small glimpse she could make out enough to tell the figure above her was judas. There was no mistaking his purple face and dark hair, though sky remained groggy, as she tended to hate not getting as much sleep as she could.

"Judas...c'mon...not now...".

Seriously? Didn't they just get out of a crazy trial situation where sky herself was almost arrested herself? If anyone needed sleep besides angel, it was her, she tugged against her best friend, trying to get more comfy on her pillow how she could and go back to pleasant dreams where she wasn't almost killed or attacked or a combo of both. Though with noises going on in the back and Judas's constant attempts, she wasn't able to ignore him for much longer as reality started to return around her and to her senses.

"Sky, you need to get up! Angel's mother, she started freaking out in the middle of the night...the spiderbites and working on her right now...you have to get up...". Sky blinked away the sleep, sitting up on the bed to see a large crowd was forming around the bed, the lucitors, the butterflies, several nurses, the spiderbites, nora, angel, mason, all the girls. Whatever just happened, she must've slept through the action, and she suddenly felt more awake then ever.

She quickly tried to get her mind in order as she absorbed the chaos around them, people running around, loud voices, constant talking and movement that it was a miracle sky slept through it at all.

"What...how...what?".

"Angel was sleeping next to her to watch her and she started to jolt in the middle of the night, and he woke up and started to panic and he got the nurses attentions and everyone quickly started piling in, the queen was mostly stiff before, she never jolted before, they're so worried about her...". His eyes wandered to the crowd, so many people were talking to each other and moving in and out and sky could barely see what was happening over there, though the panic in the room was obvious.

"Is she ok?".

That was probably a stupid question to ask considering the paranoia around her but it slipped out anyway.

"I don't know sky, they checking on her right now...trying to see if there's anything they can do...some have been running out and grabbing materials and ingredients. Whatever must have been going on, it seemed like a serious emergency. Though among the commotion sky could hear Queen Spiderbite immediately shout over the others, trying to get them to stop panicking, as she asked the nurses to bring her some certain medicines and plants.

And was...her mother using magic?

"Judas...should we-".

"No, our parents said for us to stay back, let the professionals take a look at her...and well..angel...for good reasons. I had to wake you...you're kinda a heavy sleeper". Sky rubbed at her eyes, worry on her face, "Judas...what if...what if she...". Then a burst of light came from the bed where the queen laid, scaring everyone around the bed as Queen Spiderbite started pushing some of the viewers away, "Give her space, right now! I think there's some feeling returning to her legs, she needs to be able to stretch them!".

Quickly some of the crowd backed up, King Lucitor backing up to where judas and Sky were to alert them of what was happening.

"Queen Arachford had a "Jolt", because of her condition she was suffering from a stiffness that prevented her from being able to function like she used to. But since her species is magic, it seems a burst of magic occurred in her system, forcing her to react against her current condition...Queen Spiderbite says the suddenness had a chance of causing serious harm but Star's seeing if maybe they could bring movement back to all parts of her body again by spreading that magic out...".

"A burst of magic..huh".

"It's because of angel..."., The demon looked very serious, "The Arachmen went without a lot of serious magic for generations, making his species unable to develop with it properly...now that angel's brought it back...or well..did...her body is reacting to it unnaturally. Star thinks Arana is trying to heal herself with the magic internally, which is dangerous to do without proper training...healing magic can only do so much, it can fix wounds and heal bones but diseases are a whole other matter...".

"Is mason-?'.

"Mason offered his garden because plants do a lot of good for healing on mewni, but it's not that simple, the queen is not just suffering from a stiffness...she has memory issues, she's almost in a non functioning mode. I think even if we do cure her...she's never going to fully be how she was...she's going to need a lot of recovery time...there's no magical cure that just fixes everything unfortunately. I just hope we're fast enough to help her before we're too late...she's been like this long enough...".

"King Lucitor...".

"I'm sorry kids, it's a serious situation and we're not sure ourselves how to even respond to it, people have already been struggling to figure out how to save her before this point and...you shouldn't have to see this. Star put her here and got people to look over her but we had so much on our plates we couldn't put enough on her and it's terrifying...there's not a lot we can do it seems...unless we find out something fast to solve this without making it worse.".

"What's mom doing...?", Star tilted her head, looking closer at the scene.

"She's trying to get a better look at her condition...she promised to put a ton of effort into saving this woman's life...if she doesn't do that...well i don't want to imagine that...", Star and Queen Spiderbtie seemed lost in conversation at this point, discussing what to do right now whilst everyone around them was worried and panicking. So much for that nice night of sleep everyone wanted to have after such a complete mess of a day, of course something had to happen.

Queen Lucitor approached Star and they seemed to talk for a bit themselves and soon enough Penelope entered center stage, "Alright everyone, anyone whose not a nurse, doctor, or a king or queen...can you please leave this area? We have to talk and deal with this and we can't have you all here. Please can all of you wait outside?", there was mass discussion but sure enough, some of the crowd were leaving, sunny, mason, judas and sky were escorted to leave, even angel despite his protests.

The guards forcing them out and guarding the doors despite how tired they obviously were.

Surprisingly, nora had been asked to stay, her eyes wandering as the others were shut behind the door.

Almost on instinct, sky reached out for the distressed monster prince, though he was already panicking and screaming to get back inside to see his mom. Then someone else entered the scene, Katrina, she tugged him away from the door, trying to chill him down before he hurt himself. "Spider boy, you have to wait and let them do their job...", but he growled at her, "That's my MOM in there, i should be in there WITH her!". But she sat him down forcibly, "Stay down...".

"I can't stay down that's my-".

"Either you stay down or you might put her at more risk being there...if they need you they'll call you...now STAY", her eyes were practically glowing with how she glared at him. Not to mention how strong she actually was, intimidating the prince as he decided it wasn't worth crossing with her and planting himself firmly on his seat. Katrina seemed relieved to have finally gotten through to him, but she sent him glares as she turned her attention to the others looking at her.

Yeesh, Katrina was scary, sky certainly never wanted to get on her bad side.

Though Judas and Sky definitely seemed to feel bad for him, and if they had the power to, they'd most definitely fight to get him back inside to see her. But all that would earn them was a more serious grounding and possibly just be shut back inside their rooms in general. Angel was most definitely not calm, panicking internally, but sadly he'd half to wait as katrina smiled at the kids. She motioned for them to come up so she could talk to them and sky sighed.

"Katrina I-".

The Frog woman looked to sky and smiled, "Bluebell...good to see you when i'm not tailing purple boy over there...", she gave judas a little wave. " My spy partner has been out doing another mission, i'm sure if she wasn't so busy she'd be here to help out but there's not much i can do on that front...it's tiring enough following you around...". She shot angel a look to make sure he was still sitting before turning back to the duo, "I hope they know what they're doing in there...".

"Yeah...me too..."

"This entire situation is a mess, from head to toe, we got the commission attacking the princess, a masked foe avoiding detection despite all odds, a queen that's horribly sick...and god i never thought i'd see the day the Spiderbites and Arachfords could be in the same room together normally, not to mention helping another survive. This isn't even mentioning all the stuff going down at the monster village, i can barely keep my restaurant open anymore...everyone is scared to leave their homes...".

"Scared to leave their homes?", Judas rubbed at his eyes, katrina'a voice getting softer as she gazed to angel.

"With the Ponyhead prince being..well...you saw him, and angel having worked for her...well...no one wants to end up like them if they can help themselves...though the assassins guild is out there apparently looking for them theirselves...they're gaining a huge bounty for doing so little...". Guess that was a viable reason for anyone to want to stay in their homes, not to mention whenever judas had seen that figure, well...their appearance was chilling.

The white mask.

The dress.

the soulless eyes.

He felt himself shiver on the spot.

Angel had told him he had been worried for him, simply due to his arm, and he had a point. It was bad enough she had loki, what if she had done that to judas? Or anyone who was super powerful? Judas didn't like the implications of what could happen if he got out of control, much less out of control and in the control of someone else who he already knows tried to kill angel, he felt the shocked on his wrist and tried to sooth his mind quickly.

At the time he played it off like maybe angel was worrying too much about something that might not even happen, but it seemed the anxiety had creeped up on him now that the trial was out of the way. It was in the back of his mind, it had been ever since they found out people could be controlled. Though he needed to put it aside, he needed to be strong right now, especially with how one of his friends was dealing with the fate of his mother right now.

Thinking about this too hard got to him fast.

"Any tips on what we could do to get her?", sky suddenly asked, "I mean, you're a master spy right? You've had to catch criminals before?".

"Yeah, but most criminals i get aren't magic, those are always left to the Butterflies and commission, otherwise it might be out of my league, my partner is a lot stronger then i am, those kinda threats are better left for her to take care of then me...". Angel huffed in his seat, batting at tears in his eyes and Katrina quickly took his side and tried to pet him to calm him down, "Honestly we're lucky she didn't take over his body, especially when he was getting stronger...if she got her hands on him while in one of his spider rampages...oof.".

Sky recalled to the outburst he had while training, "You're not wrong...".

"Speaking of which...you holding up there purple?".

Judas was almost taken aback, not answering her at first. But that only made it more obvious something was wrong. Katrine sent a sympathetic smile his way, trying to reassure him, "Hey, don't feel bad you haven't taken the guy out...we've tackled some tough dudes ourselves, some took forever to catch it feels like...if even we have our struggles...you can too. Just have faith in us we'll take care of this before things get any worse..sooner or later...".

Judas huffed, letting it all out, "No...it's not that...i'm...i'm worried what'll happen if i get taken over...personally...i gave sky something to help in case...my entire family has one as well...but...i'm nervous...". Sky started patting his back and Katrina reassured him, "Everyone's anxious about that...but we'll make sure they never get the chance if they are considering it...promise, you're in good hands judas. It's ok to still be scared but you need to stop being terrified of yourself...you're not a bad person jude...".

"I just think about it sometimes...i've had it drilled into my head that i'm dangerous and i can't help but now think...what if someone gets hurt because i lose control of my body? I want to know i'm in control of my body, and that...no one else is or will be..." though his sadness was quickly cut before anyone could respond, "I'm sorry, it's so off topic...we should be worrying about angel and the queen, i...shouldn't be turning this into a conversation about me...".

"Jude...dude...like...you can talk about this if you need to, it clearly matters to you..."., Judas hugged his arms, turning his head from sky.

"No it's ok...for now let's focus on angel...we can worry about this another time...when things are calmer...", judas wasn't trying to be rude but there was no way they could get judas to get into this when he was this upset, they were just going to have to wait. Though it didn't make sky feel any better, she could take pressure off of him but she couldn't make him feel safe in his own skin just by speaking to him and doing some magic or something.

Angel's ears flickered at the talk, he looked like he wanted to say something but stayed quiet.

"Just try to not let this worry you so much...it's our job to protect you...have some faith in us and yourself..." the frog woman smiled at him, patting his shoulder before her compact started to ring. She quickly checked to see who was calling and she almost hopped in surprise, "I better take this...keep an eye on the spider while i'm gone real quick? And don't try and go inside...they'll kill you if i don't.". She headed off down the hall and Mason quickly approached, still in his matching jammies.

He'd probably been waiting for katrina to leave for this exact moment.

He looked more then eager to see his older brother, a smile on his face despite the current situation at hand, though his hair was all over the place. Judas left wondering if his brother had been sleeping upside down on the ceiling again. Regardless, considering how deeply their parents refused to let mason take part in their situation, mason was here, and he yawned as his wings fluttered behind him. Only bumping into the slightest bit of people on his way over.

"Mason...you really shouldn't be here...y'know? It's WAY past your bedtime", he sounded like their parents, but he wasn't wrong either.

"I'm 13...", the small demon said, pouting, batting at his eyes as his wings stretched, he looked like a stubborn child...well, an even more stubborn child. "Besides...you're all still up, I don't see why I can't be here with you guys...sky's only a couple years older then me...I wanted to be here to see If i could help. I said they could find stuff in my garden cause i got a lot of healing plants and magic plants in there and twiler has made all inds of stuff with their ingredients...".

"Mason, you know mom and dad said-".

"I want to help...it's not fair you and landon can help and i can't...just because i'm a kid doesn't mean i can't help out!", mason was still bitter about it and judas couldn't blame him, though he also couldn't agree either since he put him in danger in the first place. He reached out and patted his little brother's head, laughing as the boy batted away his hands, "Mason, you're a smart kid, but...we shouldn't put all this on your shoulders...or get you hurt...".

"I work with the most dangerous plants on mewni, i'm not scared! I easily could've been strangled or eaten or poisoned...all kinds of stuff...but I knew what I was doing...i'm not...stupid or reckless...you make it all sound like I can't be...responsible...". Did Mason really feel like this? Like everyone had thought lesser of him? "I wanna help out my brothers...but no one wants me to...landon didn't want me to help with his crush...you guys don't want me to help with this...I'm good at handling dangerous stuff...I'm not...dumb..".

He wasn't wrong...Mason handled tough stuff more often then most should at his age.

But Judas couldn't risk it.

"Mason...".

"Can't you find some way to let me in?I know mom and dad got mad at you but it wasn't your fault...I wanted to join...it was me! But when i tell them that they still punish you instead and-...", Mason was mad and were those...tears? Mason tended to be a rather chipper young prince, usually making everyone around him happy almost by just being there, he was rarely acting somewhat like a brat. Where he cries or threw temper tantrums, not unless what bothered him was REALLY bothering him.

Like his plants or his brothers.

Judas had to place a finger to his lips to shush his brother before his words got the attention of those around them, ushering mason to the side, "I know you're upset mason, and you have ever right to be upset...but there's nothing I can do...and they're partially right...you're still my younger brother and i...I shouldn't be putting you in danger...if something happens to you it'll be my fault...mason you're tough and competent, but it's out of my hands and you know it...".

"Mom and Dad aren't going to let me...they don't trust me...you trust me...don't you?", he was giving him those brown soft puppy eyes, and it was hard to say no, but judas had to stand his ground. "Well of course i trust you...but...mason this is serious...you know it. Angel...he almost died...you could've witnessed it because of me...". mason was tapping his foot and he still looked upset, but he couldn't argue with judas there, despite how stubborn he was being.

"Mason...why is this so important to you?".

"Because you all see me as a little kid...mom and dad definitely do, they don't trust me to take care of my garden like i used to...and i can't even go in like before...my plants miss me...I just...I'm tired of you all doing all this stuff and leaving me out because i'm 13...sunny's 14 and you let her do all this stuff!". Judas got down on his knees, trying his best to explain this how he could, "Sunny is a powerful magic user...and...you're still my little brother...".

"But..she's our sister...right?".

Judas was slightly taken aback, never hearing mason address sunny as being technically their sister before this point.

"It's not fair and you know it...".

Judas was silent.

"Maybe we can find something for you...but...nothing that puts you in well...the action...ok?", he watched as mason's eyes lit up, his tense shoulder releasing themselves as he wrapping his arms around his brother in a hug, his wings following. "Thank you so much! I promise i'm gonna do a great job! Anything you want, you got me!", it was at least nice to see his brother in a good mood again, smiling and being as giddy as he usually had been.

"Just...don't do anything rash...ok?".

"Nah, not something i like doing...that's more landon's thing...".

Mason hugged the boy tighter, smiling as his wings flapped outwards, nearly hitting some of those around him, "Oh and uh...can i ask you something? I uh...i'm worried i made fae mad...and she doesn't want to talk to me anymore because of it...cause well I was...I just needed someone to talk to and...",He ears seemed to droop, "Is she mad at me? She...". Judas simply blinked at him, landon hadn't gone into too much detail about mason and fae talking to him other then "They did and that's how mason ran into us".

Though his brotherly instincts kicked in quick, looking around for anyone who may of been watching, "Mason...you're allowed to talk about your issues...now maybe fae wasn't the perfect person to talk to, especially since maybe you didn't know each other well when you started...but it's ok to get it out...". He stopped himself, thinking about how he stopped himself from talking about his arm not that long ago, "I don't think fae hates you...but maybe later you both could form a proper friendship soon, by just talking to each other without so much baggage, ok?".

"You think so?".

"Yeah, if you need to talk...talk to me...maybe you could do something nice for fae as a sign you want to be friends for real?".

"Like...flowers?".

"Well...I guess?", though considering what he knew, those flowers might not last long in her hands. The gesture still seemed nice though, mason didn't really have friends of his own all that much and it seemed fae, for whatever reason...was someone he wanted to be friends with. "Mason, just be careful...if she doesn't want to be friends, that's ok too. Don't take it personally if she doesn't want to really hang out...ok? I...I just want you to-".

"Judas...".

"Right, treat you more like an adult, less like a kid...alright...but still...be careful.", mason smile, "Thanks judas!". Judas stood up, ruffling his brother's hair. "It's good to see you smile again mason...i missed seeing it.". Mason's wings fluttered, though he quickly turned around and noticed the down spider currently being comforted by sky. "Is he going to be ok? Maybe you should go over there and...make him feel a little better? He seems happier with you around...".

"Angel doesn't have a lot of people looking out for him...at least not in terms of friends...i hope me and sky can make whatever might happen easier for him.".

Though he seemed unsure, it was clear he didn't want to admit it.

Would Angel really be ok? Sure, they sorta seemed to cheer him up, but...if things went south, there was no telling what would happen from there.

Mason nodded towards him, "You should talk to him, he'd appreciate it...ok?".

"I'll see you later mason? Ok?".

Mason smiled wider, "I'll see you later!".

He was quickly ushered off by a guard, insisting he return to bed immediately as judas's attention was returned to his friends. Though he was quickly stopped however, as the door opened behind him, Queen Star coming out and getting everyone's attention, the guard even stopping so mason could listen. "Alright everyone, the scare is over...the queen is still breathing, she's still alive...Queen Spiderbite is looking into solutions more heavily...though there is some feeling back into her body it seems...".

"There is?", Angel looked up from his pouting mess as Star coughing into her fist, "Well i mean, she sorta kinda bursted with magical energy cause you meddled on magic so much for your species, well that and...she's in butterfly castle...one of the biggest places she could get some magical exposure...especially if she were around a butterfly so often...". Sky felt eyes placed on her, and she wasn't really sure how to react, though her mom quickly moved on.

"Anyways, her magic growth seems to be almost healing her...though not from us, we think she's using it to try to heal herself...unconsciously...however there's still work to be done...she's not a professional magic user and can't do it herself...she needs some more real treatments to help and something to help her memories...if we're going to save her we might have to go inside well...her mind to find the problem. Well actually. I have to go in her mind...".

"In her mind?", something about that seemed to disgust sky, not really wanting to know where this was going.

"I've done it before in my mind, it's not THAT bad...besides...it's worth a look...", angel stoood up though, eyes darting at her, "When are you going? We can't waste anymore time on this, if there's a way to help you can't waste time...". But the queen was way ahead of him, "Which is why i'm going right now...i'm not sure if I can do anything...but it's worth a try to see what might be affecting her...especially memory wise...magic can't solve everything...sadly...".

"Thanks...".

Star smiled at Angel before heading back inside, the spider prince's eyes lingering on the door with hope.

"I think mom's grown kinda fond of you since you..well...yeah", Sky said, not really looking at Angel, "Honestly, the fact you kinda changed her mind at all is pretty impressive...". The prince watched as the crowd started to disperse a little, katrina still talking on her compact nearby. "I'm not leaving this spot till she gets back...I want to hear the results...", he took a seat nearby and judas and sky took his sides, keeping to themselves mostly as sunny, galexia, and celeste sat around then, talking on occasion.

Mason having already been sent back to bed.

Katrina was finished awhile later, looking tired as she rubbed her temple.

"Sorry about that...it took longer then i thought it would...turns out my partner's mission ain't going as well as expected...ugh what a mess...", she looked over the kids there before forming a puzzling expression, "Hey, Prince Landon didn't show up did he? All of you arrived...but not him?". Celeste could only grumble, "Hey, i'm not his alarm system...I kinda had to see what the commotion was about! Whether he kinda shows up or sleeps in is up to him...".

"Hmm...i'm going to check up on him...".

She motioned for a guard nearby to watch the kids as she headed down the hall, time further passed as angel stared at the door, hard. He was waiting for anything to come back, sky was partially upset she wasn't going to see what her mom was seeing, but then again going into someone's mind was really only good for one person, the more people in the mind, the faster the mind starts getting wonky. Minds just weren't made to hold a bunch of people inside of it frankly.

And after yesterday, her hype on anything that involved her possibly dying was pretty much something she wanted little to do with for the time being.

"Couldn't give us a night of sleep...", she mumbled, rubbing at her face and yawning, "We had to go right into more issues...". Though at the same time she felt slightly at fault, "Ugh...i know constant exposure to magic and magical people has an effect on mewmans and fellow magical creatures sometimes...but i never saw this coming!". But Angel nodded to himself, "I did...well..not exactly this but...when magic started slowly returning thanks to...her, all my kind could feel something different even if they didn't know why...but...I didn't want my dad to find out what i was doing...so i kept it to a minimum so maybe he wouldn't suspect anything...or at least, I asked for it to slowly return so it felt natural".

"You didn't expose your parents to it?".

"I'm not stupid...i wanted to make things easier but not by the flick of a switch...i wanted it to gradually make an impact...I didn't want anyone to know what i was doing...we don't just lack spells, we lack practice...and the access to learn...we're not as strong as we used to be so long ago. Mom had never been exposed to such power until i started that plan and well...she ended up here...but because she's...it's affecting her different...she's trying to help herself without experience...".

"Can you heal? Like your species I mean?", Celeste grumbled, motioning to her disguised wand.

"Yes...well..with wounds at least...not that it's easy...we used to do it i think...healing is easier said then done...if you screw up, you make it worse...it's why...It scares me what mom might do if she's using magic unconsciously...". The group around them seemed surprised Celeste spoke up at all considering her reputation, though there seemed to be a line of worry over her face she couldn't hide. Even behind that grumpy face, she did have a heart.

"I'm...big on healing magic...", she mumbled, "Not something i really wanted to be...but...I...well...I got into fights...a lot...and...learning magic just helped...hiding the bruises...it's...not easy to learn...sometimes nothing happens and something it just makes it hurt more...it hurts to watch...watching her try and fix herself like that...she really wants to...feel better...". Was celeste starting to cry a little? Hard as ice celeste? She wiped at her eyes.

She noticed everyone looking at her funny and she turned away, going back to her usual self and hiding her face.

"I...don't like seeing people in pain...", she seemed to be struggling to keep herself together, her arms shaking a little.

Angel was distressed but a small smile was on the corner of his lips, "She's fighting back...to see me and dad and again...".

He seemed touched despite everything, even if he was worried it was clear his mother was trying to save herself for a reason despite her weak state. Though then again it was also entirely possible she didn't know what she was doing and her body was doing it instinctively. Though whether that was the case of it was the other reason it was terrifying and made his heart jump, though the teens around him were going out of their way to ease him wherever they could.

Sky especially.

"She really loves you...".

Now it was angel's turn to cry, but more of joy then sadness this time.

"Yeah...yeah she does...".

Star suddenly then burst through the door, breathing heavily as Janna and Queen Spiderbite followed after, "Angel! We need you in here!". The queen didn't even hesitate as she grabbed the boy by the arm and tugged him out of his seat. The boy himself bewildered as he was tugged inside the room, Sky quick to follow after him before anyone could stop her, the guards failing to grab her in time before she ran inside to see what was going on. The sick queen didn't look any different then when they last saw her, but Star quickly placed angel next to her, placing his mother's hand in his.

"Talk to her."

"I'm sorry...what?", the boy's face looked utterly puzzled, but Star seemed frantic and tried her best to get herself together and not lose her patience.

"Her memories are super fuzzy...like SUPER fuzzy...I need someone she knows to try and jog her memory a little if possible, and you're the closest...your father says she reacts to you on occasion while in this state...so maybe...", the prince seemed to see where she was going with this, though he always welt up being around his mom, and looking at her face. It was so hard to look at her like this, and he ended up gripping her hand with his two now.

"Mom...can you hear me?".

Star quickly laid down on the far end of the wing, placing a hand to her head and whispering something, which sky could only assume was whatever spell she was suing to enter the monster's mind as the sick queen's forehead started to light up. Jeez, her mom really was stressing out to fix this mess wasn't she? Sky looked over to see Angel busy with his mom as she approached her own to see if she was ok, her mom was transferring her subconscious into Arana's and that alone was pretty risky and as her cheeks lit up, sky could suddenly feel her own start to light up as well.

"Princess Butterfly!", Suddenly one of the nurses noticed Sky near the queen and before Sky could react, she found herself...in the spiderbite forest?

Well, it looked like the forest, but also not the forest, there were things around there that shouldn't be there. Like certain homes, trinkets, picnic basket, and it felt sky puzzled until she noticed a photo on the ground of a familiar spider monster...as a small baby. She could hear her mom screaming nearby, and sky noticed some elements turning whiter and fuzzy before becoming normal again, as if the world was on the verge of collapsing on itself.

"I'm in arana's mind...oh nooooo", she must've somehow gotten pulled in herself and that was not good at all. She only intended to make sure her mom was alright, she didn't plan to go inside the mind of the queen next to her. It happened so fast, as if sky had walked into another room, she was there and now she was...here. Or at least, her subconscious was here, and the only way she could get out was to find the spellcaster to let her out before things got worse.

She had to find her mom, fast.

"MOM!", she called out, running through the forest of the queen's memories...the place was jumbled with different elements from different memories, was this how most minds were on the inside? Jumbled and confused? Though as Sky roamed through the world and called out to her mom, she could hear angel's voice, his voice...well it seemed to come from nowhere and everywhere at the same time. It echoed throughout the world, the boy talking to his mother with some difficulty.

"I'm sorry mom...sky...um...she collapsed on the floor just now...she's my friend...I hope you get to meet her soon.".

Collapsed huh? Guess it figures that's what would happen to her body, it must've literally fallen to the floor while her mind transferred. She could only imagine how shocking that'd be for angel, and just hoped he was focusing at the task at hand and hadn't lost focus. Hopefully at the very least someone moved her body off the floor, last thing she needed was to find her body on the hard and cold floor as soon as she woke up from this complete mess.

She called out louder this time, the memories around her getting hazy and then reappearing, sometimes the world even seemed to be teleporting, things moving from one place to another. It was a surreal experience, like time and space was moving and changing constantly around her while almost not changing at all. Though she really couldn't take the time to admire it, wondering where her mom was in all of this, though a voice made her pause.

Turning to spot a rather young child, perhaps 6, playing alone.

And if the legs weren't a dead giveaway, his tiny nervous expression was.

A child Angel.

He was by his lonesome, playing with some toys in front of him at what looked like a picnic of all things. Was this a memory where angel was actually alone? Or was his mother supposed to be here with him and was elsewhere for the time being? Regardless, he looked a little nervous and scared being alone, and sky was left wondering if he knew he was a memory or even if he was bothered by any of the things happening around him in this strange mind world.

"Hello?", can memories of people react to her in here? Or did they stay in their respective memories? Though the fact the boy looked up at her signified that yes, it seemed he could hear her. Though seeing a tiny child angel and hearing his voice throughout this world, talking to his mom was only adding to the strangeness of the situation. "Uh...hi? I'm uh...looking for my mom, it's very important...she's blonde, probably has her hair in buns...blue eyes?".

The child seemed to gap at her, Sky wondered if he recognized her as well...herself, but a lot older looking.

She forgot how shy Angel was as a kid, always gaping close to his mother. Not like the moody teen she knew him more as, he looked too nervous to even talk to her. She it her lip as she got on one knee, she needed to find her mom before things got worse and tiny memory angel was her best bet right now. "Heya...I uh...I lost my mom, we got separated on accident...I could really use your help...to find her. You uh...you really love your momma right?".

The child's ears flicked, surprisingly, this memory of angel was not suffering like some of the other memories were on occasion. He simply nodded a little at Sky and she held out her hand, "I'm...Sky...we're uh...it's going to be ok...we're going to be good friends...I mean i'm sure the memory of me you have know you probably think of me more as a small girl who tags around judas a lot...but...right now? We're friends...strange ones...but...i'm here for you...ok?".

The boy blinked at her, "Skyler butterfly?".

So he did recognize her; Was that good or bad under these circumstances? Either way if she wanted out of her she needed to make sure she didn't scare him off and gained his trust. She bent down to his level, trying her best smile and did her best to not freak him out during what almost looked like the end of the world around them to a degree. God judas was so much better with kids then she was, but for now she'd just have to make the young boy feel as secure as she could.

"Yeah...me, if..you help me find my mom..i'll help you find yours...is that ok?".

He looked to her and her hand before nodding and reaching out, wow...he was solid, he felt really there.

They stood up together and Sky almost seemed delighted to see the young child trust her, though who knows if the real angel at this age would've done so or not. This was a memory after all, and it could be shaped by the mother's mind, but regardless...sky felt a sense of relief. The young monster took the lead, walking around and holding onto her hand rather tight, his favorite toy under one of his arms, using his much smaller spider legs to go a little faster as she caught up with him.

This place was endless, in fact it probably did go on forever considering it was someone's mind rather then an actual land. It's almost constant changing of even the smallest details would make it almost impossible to navigate through and who knows where he mother went. Though Sky could still hear her Angel talking to his mother, his voice still coming through, though the child didn't really pay it no mind, more interested in the task at hand then that.

That or...maybe he just couldn't tell there was anything wrong like Sky could.

Though soon enough, she could hear someone else in the near distance, egging the child to lead her to whoever that was, whether it was her mom or not, she needed to find out for sure.

The boy led her through the memories, before showing Sky a clearing and sure enough, her mom was there. Digging around for what she was looking for, though it seemed their sudden appearance startled her, the queen nearly blasting them before stopping herself. "Oh jeez...more memories...wait...why would my daughter be interacting with the memory of a child angel...?", she was going to be in trouble but granted this one wasn't entirely her fault.

Then the queen seemed to come to a realization rather fast, "Wait...memories of you two from different time periods interacting? That wouldn't happen unless...you're not a memory are you...". She looked at Sky with surprise and frustration, her eyes looking at her to the boy next to her. Before looking around the memory world, as if to check and see if it was doing any worse then when she first arrived in it not that long ago. Then looked back at her daughter's apologetic face.

"So...yeah...I might of ended up joining you...sorry...I was just trying to check on you and then I just popped in...not like I was supposed to know i could get sucked in by just being NEAR you!".

"Sky! I separated myself for a reason! If you get in proximity of me you would end up sent with me and...actually I didn't warn you about that did i? Ok ok, fine fine...we'll just send you out of here real quick before it gets any worse and...hold up...". The Queen took a closer look at the tiny child version of the prince who was still speaking to his mother on the other side, "He's...not glitching like the other memories here...he's...physical...he's the most intact memory i've seen so far...".

Sky looked over to the child angel, who was tilting his head up at both of them.

He was rather stable, stable enough that she could hold his hand right now, though at the time she didn't really question it, she was just looking for help and he was the only memory she could speak to for the time being.

"I did think it was weird he seemed entirely normal compared to a lot of the other stuff in here...is that good?", Star smiled, "I think he's exactly what i needed, thanks hun...". Though she looked excited, the small memory child didn't, backing away and hiding behind sky in fear, surprising Star. "Er...mom...mind telling me exactly what you need him for? I mean, he's a memory of angel but he's still technically a kid and we probably don't wanna y'know...hurt him".

"No no no, nothing like that...but with a solid memory like him, maybe we could stabilize the others!".

"Stabilize? Mom, what's happening in here exactly?".

But Star wasn't paying much attention, "Just stay close...maybe with two magic users we'll be more effective...but we have to do it soon because it's bad enough having one here, having two in here is too much for the mind...and don't lose the boy...". Sky kept a close grip on the boy as her mom started digging through the bushes of the memory forest, Sky completely puzzled in what she was doing. Did her mom find out what they could do to cure her memory loss?

Or was this an experiment?

Yeah her mom fixed stuff on the fly before but this time Sky was here to see it and it was a little more...personal to her.

Especially as she felt the boy clutch close to her.

"Mom...hey...maybe I should leave...like now...well, after i find his mom...I kinda promised...it's her mind so i'm sure there's a memory of her around here somewhere...", she looked around the area but Star wagged her finger, "No no no, we don't have time...don't worry dear, your mom has done crazier stuff then this, the fact he's stable means despite the memory loss...she has a clear memory of her son...even if it is him as a little boy...i think with him we might be able to use magic and stablize her memories more...it might not fix everything...but it'll make sure she holds on a lot longer...the spiderbites on the other side are seeing if they can work out a better healing solution for her body...they thought it best I worked on the mind...".

"Mom...I mean like, you sure?".

"I have to try...right? It's my job as queen and...I failed them...I can't fail them any further...".

Then she paused, "I promise the boy will be ok, we're only spreading his stability, it shouldn't hurt him...just because I know you'd care if it did." It did seem to reassure Sky though paused, it was the first time they had a proper one on one since well...everything blew up, and the tension as still there. She wondered what her mom was thinking about all this, what she had questions about, if she had her own suspicions she wasn't telling sky or anyone for that matter.

"It seems like you're changed your mind a lot on stuff...since everything happened...".

Sky stood there as Star turned around to face her.

"We...have a lot to talk about...when this is over...don't we?"

"Yeah...We do...".

"Y'know...for the record...you and judas really have had an effect on that boy, he used to be so spoiled, going on about wanting to travel back and time and fixing things and talking more princely and fancy and calling his mom and dad "Mother and Father"...now...he's dressed like more of a normal kid...he's less mean...he's more...like you. I'm honestly not sure how we got to this point but...i'm impressed you really...did have an affect on him", sky looked to the kid and nodded.

"Well...I think the truth is...angel was probably putting up a facade to mask how he really felt...and the more time he spent around us the more that mask wore off...he seems a lot less of a jerk and just...a sad kid whose desperate to make things right. And honestly...me and judas were kinda mean to him too...for awhile...we...all had some growing up to do...and I think we still do...I mean...I did taze him and...now...I...really don't use the tazer at all...I think a lot has happened...since that ball...".

"I would imagine so...but for the record...I think i had a little growing up to do as well...that maybe I was also too harsh...I spent years fixing everyone's problems skyler...it was a lot of pressure for me...it still is...even now...I...I'm a little tired I guess...of feeling like I have to fix everything our ancestors did...and judas told me once...that maybe it was wrong of me to be putting a bunch on you and i called him out for it. But...he's right...you shouldn't have to go through the stuff I did sky...i'm going to help see if I can fix this...and...I want...to make up for well...being such a brat...".

"Maybe we outta save this for after we somewhat help?", sky nodded to the world around them, phasing in and out and more rapidly then usual.

"Right...good...lil angel? may i take your hand?".

The older woman reached out for the small memory boy, and sky nodded to him to say it was ok. Angel carefully placed his palm on star's hand, Sky taking the other. "Now dear...this won't hurt him at all, promise...we'll talk more on what I found when we get out of here...for now...just repeat after me...if we do this correctly...then we might be able to stabilize her mind for the time being and keep her memories clearer and more intact. Just like he is...ok?"

"You think she might be able to talk to us if we do?".

"It's a possibility...".

Sky took a deep breath, reassuring the memory next to her as her mother looked to her with trusting eyes.

"Memory Lost, Memory gain, spread the thought, remove the pain", Star chanted, Sky encouraged to chant along with her. She felt the boy grip their hands tighter as they began chanting, and Sky desperately hoped her mom knew what she was doing. If luna were here maybe she'd know what to do, especially with he uncomfortable knowledge of memory charms , but all she could do was trust her mom knew what she was doing before things got messy.

And sure enough, the boy next to them seemed to be glowing, the glow spreading from him to the world around them.

The memories the glow touched, even if it was a small amount, were starting to stop their bugging out, becoming more solid memories. The trees looked like solid trees, items stayed in place, everything seemed to almost reach a state of normally. Almost, it was still a jumble of memories after all, but at least things were not fazing in and out like a broken television. The boy himself seemed almost clam and relaxed, he felt somehow safe with them watching over him.

It...was working, even if it was slight.

Sky was feeling a little out of breath as she felt the boy's hands tug away from her, almost falling to the ground as she mom stood her up and looked at the work around them. "He must be a strong memory to help repair so much...if only it wasn't temporary...but still, it's better then nothing...", Sky blinked and tried to get herself together before another figure walked into the scene, the little boy running over to see them. Leaving the two Butterflys behind to hug the mysterious figure.

"What...who?", sky rubbed her eyes and tried to get a closer look, the figure coming more into shape.

It was Arana herself as a memory, easily grabbing her son and holding him close to her. She was so young and so...beautiful, she didn't look ill or weak or anything. Her hair done, as light pink as ever, all her legs functional, her pink face and marking as natural as ever. Her white dotted eyes had so much life into them, like the queen Sky remembered from all those past balls and dances when they were all really young kids. She held onto her tiny son lovingly and it made sky stop in her tracks.

It looked so sweet and tender , but it also felt sad.

Star noticed before an aura spawned on her palm, "We better go...before things get worse with us here...".

"Wait!", Sky said quickly, removing herself from her mom to run over to the mother and son, the memory woman stopped for her, her smile seeming thankful. "Queen Arana...i know you're just a memory but can you tell me...anything...of how to help you? You're sick and having a hard time functioning and no one knows how to help you and...your son...he wants you back...". The Queen seemed to blink at her in surprise, and Sky wondered if this was a bad idea.

This could be a memory of her years ago and therefore she'd have no idea what sky was talking about whatsoever.

But then, she smiled and for the first time in a long while, she spoke, "All i need is him...and I need you to keep him strong...". She held the boy close to her, "Tell him when you get back out there...that I love him so much...".

"If-no...When you get back out there...you can tell him yourself", Sky said back, "And don't worry...I will...and you'll see that when you see him again...".

She felt her mother run up behind her and touch her shoulder and everything went white.

She found herself waking up in a bed, she had been most likely moved here after she collapsed and as she sat up angel turned to look at her. He'd clearly been worried despite spending the situation mostly speaking to his mother, though sky gave him a reassuring smile. Her mom woke up shortly, and before everyone could properly thinking about what happened...the unconscious queen moved a little. Her mouth coughing before she finally said something.

"Angel...".

This seemed to even freak out Queen Spiderbite, who looked to the Mewman queen in disbelief.

Angel started to cry, tears leaking from all of his eyes.

"I think there's something more to this illness then meets the eye...we've been thinking about it purely as like...one of those regular sicknesses mewmans get, and I think we've been thinking about it all wrong", Star said, "We...had to stabilize her memories before they blinked out of her mind, but that's not just it...she can't...get her mind and body to work together properly, it's hard for her to speak or move or do much of anything like she used to...she's strong and trying to push through it but she seems to lack control of her own body...at least, for the most part...I think what's making her sick might be a mind parasite...".

"Mind parasite?".

The mere mention of it sent shivers down everyone's spine, Star speaking rather gravely, more serious then she had ever been.

"Magical things, rare to run into...when they go through your skin and infect you they attempt to take over your body by killing the mind and soul...but it's a lengthy process and i think Arana has been fighting back so much it's been unable to finish it's goal...and making her weaker...the best way to cure it is to draw the bug out and then see if we can repair her and help her properly heal from there...the real question is how she came into contact with one of those in the first place...".

"I know how!", Suddenly in a burst of energy, Jackie came into the room, covered in liquid magic and pudding cups dropping from her armor, "Your majesty! One of the missions I was out taking care of awhile back involved tracking down some illegal items being sold between dimensions...Mind Parasites were one of them...they don't traditionally come from mewni, they come from another dimension...they're typically sold as a way to infect and kill off enemies in a subtle way...especially since it can easily hide itself as an illness...".

Star seemed more then welcome for Jackie to return, giving her a large hug, "JACKIE! Oh god this mess has been so bad I completely forgot to brush on all the stuff you got into on your missions! Everything's been such a hassle but i'm so glad you're ok! ". Star looked over the queen, who wasn't speaking, but looked at least a smidge better then she did an hour ago, "We need to find a way to draw that bug out...and soon...Penelo-". Queen Spiderbite stepped forward, raising a hand to quite the queen, "I know...but...I think i might have an assistant on that...".

Nora stepped forward, still in shock of her mother actually allowing her to assist her on this matter, coughing into her hand and trying to keep eye contact and resist covering her face.

"I...in my research...I did notice her actions did seem a little more strange then usual illnesses I ran into...I uh...well...I talked to angel a lot while we were in here together...and well...his kind likes to eat bugs...it's a major part of their usual diet in their kingdom. I think it's entirely reasonable the queen ended up with one being served to her and because it's not from here...she didn't know what it was...and it entered her and slowly took her over...making her sick...".

"How much have you had on finding a cure?".

"Well..I didn't know about the parasite until just now...I thought i was looking at it as a natural illness...but as an illness provoked by a living thing...that explains why i was having such a hard time trying to get my notes in order and why things didn't entirely line up...she's still sick but the sickness has a clear source and has affects on her that i couldn't explain before...If I could learn more about those things...if that is what's happening...we might be able to figure out what to do soon...".

"Perfect...Queen Spiderbite?".

The mewman queen sighed, pinching her nose, "It does explain a lot frankly...I was trying a few safe remedies on her and some results were not working...not to mention even my notes were jumbled and trying to come up with a solution with the tools we had seems harder then usual...but if there is something in her making her sick...we can draw it out...and then see what we can do from there...most likely her body would still be affected regardless...we...have work to do...".

"As long as we have some time...and I think we might...as long as she holds in there...".

Angel took his mom's hand as people started to clear out a little, Queen Spiderbite leaving, then Jackie, followed by Queen Star to speak to her and get her updates...then Queen and King Lucitor who had been watching over the situation, and as the adults headed out, judas and the others were let more back in. Nora luckily was still allowed to be here, to monitor further spread on Queen Arana, and Judas looked more then relieved at the sight of them.

"I heard...you guys might have a solution...?"

"We might...", it was still a theory on the matter, they needed to try drawing it out to prove it for sure, but it was still something.

"That's...fantastic...", Judas seemed to be letting out air from his body he never knew he had, going in for the hug, "After you went in I tried to go in but they refused...I was worried when you didn't get sent back out...but you...I hear you were amazing...!". Sky snickered, face red, "Oh nah...I just did what i normally did, stumble into stuff by accident...I had no idea that memory of angel would do anything I just...wanted some help..that's all..".

"You and your mom worked together!", he sounded so excited, and super proud as well.

"Yeah...I guess we did...", now that she thought about it, her and her mom worked together to save someone, and her mom let her help, it was...hard for sky to explain how she felt about that after so much rejection before.

Judas hugged her for a little longer before tapping her shoulder, "Someone wants to speak to you". Sky quickly turned to see Angel, and he was...smiling, he'd been looking for hope for so long and had been losing it for so long, and he'd never been so hopeful before in his entire life. He looked like he was about ready to kiss her he looked so happy, though he seemed to manage to pull himself together just enough to ask her something. "Did...you meet her in there...at all? Did she have anything to say?".

"Well...she wants you to be strong for her and well...let's save the rest so she can tell you herself when she properly is able to...", Sky felt herself smile, "But then again, I think you probably have a good idea what she said...don't you?".

Angel nodded, smiling affectionately, "Yeah, yeah I do.".

"KIDS!", The door burst open for what felt like the 7th time that day, Katrina back, with Landon in tow. At first scaring everyone in the room before crossing her arms and putting landon out front, "Found Pink over here covered in magic...". Landon huffed, rubbing his arm, "I didn't GO anywhere...I swear! I just wanted to check out what Star and Jackie found when they got back and well...look at it myself! It's not my fault the stuff was covered in this junk!".

Sure enough, looking the boy over he had remains of magic on his person, he almost looked as if he had swam in the stuff. Judas looked a little worried, sky looked confused, and most of the rest seemed to follow in her footsteps. Though landon himself seemed embarrassed to have been caught and outed like this in front of everyone, it was like he was a troublesome teenager and these were all his parents looking down on him with disappointment.

"Landon...what happened?".

Celeste crossed her arms and tapped her fingers, shooting the boy a knowing glare which he responded with his own irritated expression.

"Look, I only went to look at their research and what they found, everyone left so I thought it was a good chance...that's it! I almost got away with it too...until she caught me going back into my room...", he snorted as Katrina shook her head in disappointment, "You're not supposed to handle that stuff...magic is dangerous enough when you use it...getting covered in the stuff can have affects on you if you're not careful...tis not the time to be snooping around pinky.".

"I was just trying to find out what they had so I could y'know...get closer to solving this? I wanted to be the first to look at it...", everyone was sending him looks but what did they expect? He'd already been investigating on his own before this point, was it really that weird now? For all he knew their parents might not have said squat, so he took advantage of the situation to get a look. What was so weird about that? Well, it seemed to weird out the rest of the group.

Or at least, the fact he did this without them, on his own, just annoyed them.

"Landon...".

"What? I was just helping...".

Judas shook his head, "We'll talk later...for now...we all should try and get some needed rest after well...what happened...we're all tired and we all need some energy...". That at least was something everyone could agree on, Katrina watching the door as the kids, Sunny, Celeste, Landon, and Galexia included...found a place to rest nearby. It almost felt as if Katrina was putting everyone into a nap time, as if it were preschool, despite it being clear landon sure didn't want to be here.

Especially with how Judas and Celeste were looking at him specifically right now.

Judas turned to get some proper rest after such a long day, choosing to confront him about it more after they've slept, though Celeste was more then awake by the looks of it. Everyone snuggling under their covers nearby, exhausted, with Celeste looking at landon as if he were a disobedient child. There was no way she was going to sleep like this and neither was he, he crossed his arms and eyed the floor in front of them, not even looking at his friend/kinda sister.

"I didn't break our agreement...", he muttered under his breath, "It wasn't dangerous or anything...I was just looking...". Celeste grumbled but didn't argue further, he wasn't wrong, he didn't break their agreement so she technically had little to be mad at him about. Though perhaps the reason the girl was annoyed had less to do with their agreement and more to do with him going without her. However for now she just tired headed to a nearby mattress to rest, thankful this wing was rather empty.

Mostly to keep the queen safe, but still, better they didn't have a wing full of other people to worry about.

Though it was a little hard to sleep for some.

Angel for one, as he sat at his mother's bed, no desire to sleep after the events of tonight. And despite sleeping through the action, Sky joined him after, not taking a chance she'd sleep through something like that again. The last couple mostly being Landon...and Celeste, Celeste glaring at him as if he told her something terrible. He kept to himself, trying to sleep, but with little luck, sitting up and mumbling. "It's not a big deal ok? I...I just wanted to look, to feel useful...".

Celeste continued to grumble, her normal pouty mood more sour then usual.

"I don't get why you're still mad...I didn't go against our promises...it would help if you just came out with it...instead of boxing yourself up like you always do...", she didn't answer though and he tugged on the blanket. "Look...i'm sorry I went without you...there was no time to ask for help...this just...I just want to be useful...". He peered around to see if anyone was listening in before speaking, "Of course this still matters to me...I...I can't help it...".

"I don't care that you didn't take me...I just think...you don't need to prove yourself to anyone...and need to go on some epic chase and hunt to find yourself...you think so little of yourself...that you feel the need to do all this crazy stuff...I...wanted to help to get home and stuff but I can't tell if you care more about getting me home...or being better then your brother...It feels like no matter what people tell you...whatever advice they give...you just ignore it.". Landon hissed, "Well I can't tell if you even want to go back...you seem to hate your home every time you talk about it...".

"Of course I hate it...going back home...isn't...fun...but...I...I have someone...I need to go back to...".

"For...real?".

"Yeah...".

"Are-".

"Go to sleep landon...".

Celeste pulled the covers over herself, blocking the demon out as he laid back down, thinking to himself.

He clutched at the covers under him, was he really taking this whole thing too far? Trying to solve this whole thing before anyone else can?

Angel ears flickered in curiosity at their conversation, but his main focus was on his mother, though sky's company was appreciated as well. She was probably still upset with him but at the same time, she still wanted to be by his side and there was no denying she cared deeply for him despite it. His hands twiddling as he looked at his mother as if expecting her to wake up any minute now, his eyes glancing to his companion who was watching next to him.

"Thank you...for helping...".

"Kinda couldn't do it without you...funny enough...so i guess in the end maybe you really will save her yourself...", Sky yawned, but she was clearly happy to be there, mind thinking about all the chaos that just happened.

"Really?", he seemed surprised, and rather curious, his ears flickering and somehow...he seemed touched even if he didn't know exactly what he did.

"Weirdly...yeah...you did actually help...", she simply shrugged, but gave the boy a pat on the back, "I guess if this works...then in the end, it wasn't all for nothing...you really did end up helping her."

They sat in silence next to each other, legs swinging off the side of the mattress, though the situation at hand raised on particular question.

"Sky...if mother...mom...really was...infected by a mind parasite...was it an accident...or do you think...someone sent it after her on purpose?".

It was a fair question, especially since that was what the bugs were typically used for...attacking their enemies subtly. Did someone have a reason to target the queen? Or was it really an accident? There was no telling at this point, they could only really focus on saving the woman for now. They'd had to worry about how it happened later, Though for now sky focused her attention to Angel, who had so much hope in his eyes that he was almost a different person.

"I'm not sure...it could be both...but...i'm sure we'll figure it out...", she reassured him with some pats on his hand, though he seemed skeptic, if only because who could say for sure what may or may not have happened. Regardless, his father would have quite a bit of a panic when the news would come in about this mess. Both scared and possibly even joyful, though for now sky just hoped they could remain thinking abut the good news then the terrifying bad news.

"Thank you...Skyler...".She nodded, smiling, looking at him before back to his resting mother.

Content being at his side after the mess they both had got into in the last 24 hrs, if they were ever going to get through this, they needed to work together. Though judging by their expressions, they didn't mind that all that much.

"You're welcome...Angelus".

#star vs the forces of evil #svstfoe #svtfoe #sky and the forces of the multiverse #janstar bby #tomco bby #ostar bby #tomstar bby #starco bby #fanfiction #fanfic #star butterfly #tom the demon #tom lucitor #marco #marco diaz #my art

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