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schnitzelbutterfingers · 3 years

Text

Baklava

Book/Pairing(s): The Royal Romance || Liam Rhys x F!MC (Jasmine Wilson) LAW STUDENT AU

Category/Warning(s): Teen || none

Word count: 2.7K

Premise: A different take on how Liam and Jasmine could have met. Liam and the gang search for baklava, and Jasmine is a law student and a talented baker, working in her mother’s bakery.

Author’s note: This is for the 200 FOLLOWER GIVEAWAY WINNER #2: @texaskitten30 . Congratulations! Hope you enjoy :)

New York City is known for its culture, fashion, Broadway musicals. Its approximately 8 million people.

Maxwell sighs. “C’mon, Liam. There are so many other desserts. Pie, cake, cupcakes, those drizzled thingies...”

He is right. The deserts here are magnificent. Every one of them is fireworks on someone’s tongue, the rich flavor evading the mouth.

Drake surprises him. “For once in my life, I’m going with Beaumont.”

But there is one thing New York City seems to not have.

“No,” Liam responds.

Baklava.

Maxwell open his mouth, but then closes it, flabbergasted.

“Who are you, and what have you done to Prince Liam?”

The prince chuckles wryly, a sarcastic leer taking place. In a few months, he won’t be able to do this again. In a few months, he will marry a noble with no love in between.

In a few months, his freedom will be over.

He has to make those few months worth it.

And he will.

By finding baklava.

However, Liam almost gives up. Every bakery they went to in New York City had everything, including Indian sweets, such as laddu, gulab jamun, jalebi.

But they weren’t selling anything from the Ottoman Empire. They weren’t selling baklava.

Out of the corner of his eyes, he sees a small building. A bakery. It has a small cupcake on the top of the name.

The prince clears his throat.

“We’ll stop in this bakery. If they don’t have baklava either, then we can go buy cupcakes and go to a bar.”

Maxwell fist bumping the air and Drake sighing of relief, tells him they are both comfortable with his plan.

One more bakery.

That’s it.

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

Slow Dough.

That’s the name of the bakery. Immensely creative.

The three men step out of their rented car, the sun’s rays showing off its magnificent light, creating shadows as they take each step towards the bakery.

They open the door, the jingling bells on it acknowledging their presence.

It looks beautiful. The inside of the store takes on a more pastel theme, the baby pink with white stripes adorning the walls. There are sky blue tables and chairs, adorned with a vase of pink roses on each table.

The front of the bakery has a glass counter-shelf, filled with delicacies. Cupcakes, cookies, chocolate, ice cream. You name it.

Maxwell seems to have that same idea because he says, “Maybe we can steal some cronuts and-”

“Maxwell!” Drake admonishes.

“Hello? What is the commotion here?”

A woman, probably in her fifties, with natural tanned skin, paces into the room from the silver doors ahead of the counter, which Liam assumes is the kitchen. Rather than taking a chiding tone, her voice is laced with concern.

Liam glares at his two friends, Maxwell sporting a nervous smile. Drake shakes his head at Maxwell’s antics.

What good friends he has.

“Apologies for the loud... conversation ma’am. We were searching for a dessert named baklava in New York City. We searched almost every bakery we could find, but left empty-handed. We were hoping we would find some here?”

The woman grimaces. “I’m so sorry, son, but we don’t sell baklava here.”

The prince sighs.

He knew it. Of course he did.

After mentally calming himself, he sports a tender smile.

“No worries, ma’am. In that case, would you mind giving us three cupcakes? One vanilla and the other two chocolate, please?”

“Now that, I can give you.”

She smiles as she opens the counter, probably finding the best cupcakes she could find.

The woman is probably the most solicitous person she ever met during his bachelor party.

The men sit down on of the chairs, surprisingly more comfortable than Liam imagined. They fall into an agreeable silence, with Maxwell playing with one of the pink rose petals, and Drake glued to his phone.

And they are interrupted. By a soft voice.

A beautiful voice.

“Excuse me, sir, but... did you say baklava?”

He stands up immediately to turn towards the voice, addicted to the melody.

And hazel eyes meets blue.

The lady looks like an exact copy of the older woman, only more younger. More irresistible.

Striking.

Even with glasses on.

For some reason, his heart starts beating faster.

Silently scolding himself, he straightens up and nods his head affirmative.

“Yes, is there a reason why you ask?”

“I happen to know how to make baklava. Do you want me to make some for you?”

Shock rolls over him as he mulls over her words. An American tries to help him?

He glances back at Drake and Maxwell. In return, they give him an exact sense of a whammy blown on them. They are probably thinking the same thing, too.

Liam discerns the older woman slapping her hand on her forehead in an almost idiotic sense, walking to stand next to the younger woman.

Twins.

They are practically twins, if people count out the wrinkles.

“Apologies, son. She is my daughter. She knows how to make almost everything.”

Liam softly grins at the mother and turns to look at her daughter.

A beauty.

As if she came from a painting.

Majestic.

As if reading his thoughts, she takes a glimpse of his face and smiles. He catches a glimpse of a faint blush creeping on her neck, even with the tanned skin.

Liam allows himself a quick smirk and hurriedly straightens his face to a more gentle expression.

“What’s your name?”

She clears her throat and looks at him straight in the eye. “Jasmine.”

Maxwell gives her a wide smile. “Nice name!”

Liam and Drake nod their heads in agreement, looking back at Jasmine. She grins from ear to ear.

Her smile is infectious.

And Liam just met this girl.

“I’ll get started. I can set up a mini cooking show for you guys. This might take over an hour though. So, are you sure?”

Before Liam can respond, Drake interrupts.

“We can wait. This dude, here, was acting like he was waiting for baklava his whole life. If he doesn’t get his hands on one, he’ll probably punch something.”

“Drake!”

Before he can give him a new one, he hears Jasmine’s laughter, music to his ears. He only knew her for about 10 minutes, and something makes him want to get closer to her.

He can see scars sprinkled on her chest.

She’s an air of mystery.

Mystery.

“I can most definitely understand that feeling. I’ll go gather the ingredients!”

She flees like a small human Sonic, and he infers for a second that she did track in school.

Maybe she did.

Jasmine comes back with nuts, cinnamon, dough, butter, sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, and a lemon. After buttering up a thick pan, she sprinkles in a bunch of nuts and cinnamon.

Just like those chefs gave him a show and made baklava for him back in Greece.

Maxwell starts speaking, most likely attempting to make small talk during the awkward silence.

“So... where are you originally from?”

She softly smiles.

“Queens, New York. We moved to the city when I was 10.”

“What made you move to the city?”

“Oh, well...”

Jasmine slightly hesitates.

“My father had passed away, and we had to do something for a living. So we started this bakery...”

A tense silence invades the bakery, Jasmine quickly swiping her eyes. Maxwell grimaces, and Drake takes over.

“We’re so sorry. We didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable...”

She shoots him a weak grin. “It’s okay. It still hurts, but we’re trying our best to move on.”

At this point, she places two sheets of dough into the pan, and butters it up. She then layers it with nuts and repeats the process. The prince makes a mental note to remember these steps the next time he attempts in making baklava.

He tried to make baklava once, but failed, even after searching the internet to find the recipe.

It had been proved to his friends how much of a bad cook he is.

Liam attempts successfully in changing the topic, in a way to console her.

“Are you a student or...”

“I am! Final year law student at Yale.”

His eyes widen. “Yale? That’s impressive.”

Her mother comes back from the kitchen. “Wait till you hear how she skipped five grades and will be graduating as a lawyer at the age of 21.”

The gang’s eyes widen.

Wow.

They’re speaking to mini Albert Einstein.

“Mom!” The law student covers her cheeks in an attempt to stop the light rose pink that’s flooding her face.

Maxwell smiles wickedly. “That's so COOL! Liam, here, is the same! He managed to even excel better than his tutors. One time, he was making fun of them because they got a calculus problem wrong, and he managed to solve it in less than five minutes! He skipped three grades, but always managed to make tutors mad and made them speak to his parents because of his smart mouth-”

“Maxwell!”

Drake chuckles.

“What? It’s the truth!”

She chortles again. That melodic laugh.

“It’s alright. I did that every time, too.”

Jasmine cuts the baklava into diamond shapes and puts them into the oven. She stretches her arms out, unsubtly displaying off her muscles.

Damn.

“Alright. This’ll take about 50 minutes.”

Comfortable silence flows through all of them, Liam enjoying the clock ticking surrounding the small building.

Drake cuts it off. “We forgot to tell you where we’re from. We live in-”

“Cordonia, I know.”

Liam's breath catches.

A part of him wants to berate himself for being so idiotic. For believing that maybe one person won’t know who he is. But he should have known.

He should have known.

Drake closes his mouth and opens it again, unable to say anything.

“Wait, so you know Liam is a prince?”

“Crown Prince, yeah.”

“Then, why didn’t you let us know and treat us like normal people?”

“Because I know.”

Turning to him, she says, “Liam, all you’ve ever wanted was freedom.”

His eyes widen. He feels like he’s being mind-read by a fortune teller. At that moment he should’ve felt uneasy, but all he wants to do is open more of himself to her.

And that petrifies him.

“How... how do you know?”

Jasmine’s expression turns stoic, indecipherable.

“Your eyes. They express everything. You feel like you’re being locked in a jail cell. I was once like you, you know so I know that look anywhere...”

Her eyes turn misty, but she quickly shakes her head.

“You do want to lead your people, but you want to be free in choosing someone at the same time. You want someone you’ll fall in love with.”

Her educated guess is mind-boggling. Straying his eyes back to his friends, they appear as if they’re seeing Liam in a new light. Shocked.

That they didn’t know anything about this, and they’ve known him for years.

Maxwell shakes his head. “Wait, but... if you knew who we were, why didn’t you address Liam as ‘your highness’? Don’t get me wrong, we liked how you didn’t...”

Jasmine snorts. “Because even through he has royalty flowing through his blood, he is a human, just like us. I don’t mean it to be offensive, I swear. While titles also show respect, they put more benefit for someone than for another ‘commoner’. And I don’t like that.”

Liam becomes curious. Jasmine is not one of those average girls who shrieks over a celebrity. She is one of a kind.

And that makes him want to know everything about her.

“Say if... you became a queen one day. How will you rule?”

The law student takes a deep breath before responding. She unconsciously touches her dark brown hair, and twirls a curl over her finger.

“I... I would never go by the rule book. While rules are good and all, sometimes... it would lead to injustice. As Princess Diana said in her interview with Martin Bashir, I would want to become a queen of people’s hearts, not just for a country. I would be there to do good, not cause harm or difficulty over another citizen’s life. I’m not a violent person. Quite the opposite, actually. I would want to be treated as a typical person with a typical life. I would want to be treated as an everyday person. And... I would want everyone to reminisce me as a woman who did good works, not as a woman with a prestigious title.”

Everything is confirmed. Drake’s mouth opens and closes as he tries to respond to what Jasmine just said. Maxwell has a goofy grin on his face.

Liam, however, has a cheeky smile that one would actually say is of respect and admiration. He admires her.

Even as she now bites her lip, he wants nothing more press his lips to hers.

And they’ve only known each other for about an hour.

The oven alarm lowers the mounting tension in the bakery. Jasmine jogs over to the oven and takes it. The delicious smell of baklava invades Liam’s nostrils, and he immediately wants to taste it. Looking at the pastry, the gorgeous crispy brown of the dough stands out, with green nuts garnished.

“Take caution! It’s really hot.”

Maxwell smirks slightly, already reaching for a baklava. “Oh, I don’t think it’s that- HOLY SQUIDS!”

The once smirking Maxwell now has a face of pain etched on his face, holding his right hand after it burned a little. Jasmine, seeing this, snorts.

“Told you so.”

Shaking his head, Liam -carefully- takes a piece of baklava, blowing it slightly to soothe the heat. Once it is lowered to a considerable heat, he takes a bite out of it and-

My.

God.

It is scrumptious.

And it appears that Drake and Maxwell are thinking the same thing, their friends’ eyes filled with astonishment.

Jasmine bites her lip, most likely unaware of the action. God, if he could just-

“So, did you like it?”

Shaking off his dirty thoughts, he responds, “Like it? This is the best baklava I’ve ever tasted.”

Her wide eyes contain jouissance, Liam can tell.

“Thank you! Glad I didn’t mess it up!”

Jasmine blushes again, something Liam just knows is a rare sight for anyone.

Just then, her mother comes in, sauntering hurriedly up to them. Her eyes are tense and full of worry.

“So... how is the baklava?”

Liam smiles, hopefully soothing her mother with the action.

“I can reassure you, even the most famous chefs in Greece hadn’t made me this tasty baklava before in my life. It tastes like heaven, ma’am. Your daughter has talent.”

She sighs in relief. “Thank you, sons!”

Without hesitance, the mother kisses Jasmine on her cheek, and in return the daughter kisses her on her forehead. The act reminds him of his own mother, before she died.

“How much does this cost?” Drake interrupts.

“This? This is free.”

What?

Liam refuses. “Oh, that’s not possible, we have to give you something-”

Jasmine laughs. “I insist. First of all, this wasn’t even part of the menu, although we do need to add it to ours. Second, you deserve this. For the first time, other than my mother, I felt like someone else got me.”

The words make the prince look at her deeply into her eyes. Jasmine stares back, not one of them blinking. Finally, the law student breaks the contact.

Just then, Drake clears his throat. “I hate to interrupt but we have to leave. Is it alright if we take more of these?”

The mother smiles. “Sure, sweetie! Take as much as you need.”

As Maxwell and Drake grab more of the baklava, Liam goes up to Jasmine.

“Well, I guess this is goodbye,” he says, his tone with a hint of heartache.

She smiles wistfully. “Yeah.”

And they hesitate before hugging one another tightly. Liam closes his eyes, in what could be his last moments of freedom. He makes this time worth it. Jasmine reluctantly pulls back and clears her throat.

“But hey, something tells me we’ll see each other again soon,” she adds, with a hint of a smirk.

And just like that, Liam starts to have second thoughts.

Maybe New York City is not that awful.

Narrator: Jasmine was right in what she said. They will see each other again. And they marry, and they make babies-

Author’s note: First Liam x MC fic lol. I hope I did this some justice HAHA. Anyways, if you’ve made it this far, thank you! ♥️

Lmk if you want to be added or removed from the taglist! 🥰

Perma: @potionsprefect @gryffindordaughterofathena @maurine07 @missmiimiie @mom2000aggie @nezuzoned

Liam x MC: @kingliam2019 @jared2612

@choicesficwriterscreations

#pixelberry choices #choices stories you play #the royal romance #trr #the royal romance choices #trr choices #pixelberry #pixelberry the royal romance #pixelberry trr #pixelberry choices the royal romance #pixelberry choices trr #playchoices #liam rhys #king liam rhys #liam x mc #liam rhys x mc #king liam rhys x mc

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gremlin-writes-angst · 3 years

Text

Possessively in Love

Chapter 1 Here!

Chapter 2

1.9k words

Trigger warning: Cursing

Let me know if I missed a trigger or if you spot any spelling mistakes.

Feedback is encouraged!

Click here if you want to see more of my work and follow me for more!

The Bakusquad has recently had lots of free time so they’ve gotten to hang out together, and as Bakugou assumed, Shinsou was now a part of their group. Because of that Bakugou has become a lot more touchy-feely with Denki, which isn't a problem for him. Denkis top love language is physical touch, but he also feels annoying when he’s the only one initiating it with his friends, so it's nice to have someone else be the needy one. Currently, they were doing random slide shows, a trend they saw on TikTok. Jirou went first, she rated everyone's music taste. She said it was unfair to grade herself so the winner was Sero, she said it was the most consistent and matched Seros vibe, Shinsou placed second, Jirou likes his taste but the number of angsty songs concerned her. Mina placed third, her music taste wasn't something for Jirou but she could admit it was still valid. Bakugou was placed in fourth because his music was inconsistent his playlist was a combo of screamo and classical music and jumping between them hurt Jirou’s brain when listening to the back and forth. Not a shocker but Denki placed in dead last, Jirou just couldn't listen to the gummy bear song, or barbie girl or the coconut song, or heeeeeyyyyy man song, which were all songs on his playlist. Mina’s presentation was about how everyone should try out dancing, the thing was that she was blackmailing them, each slide was one of her friends and she would look at them and talk in hints that she would expose a secret she had of theirs. Denkis was titled “ why I should be allowed alone in the kitchen” and it did the opposite of what Denki wanted it to do, every slide was “ even though I burnt down the kitchen…” he had proved to them that he needs to be chaperoned.

Denki Pov

“ So have I convinced you, will you guys stop shadowing me in the kitchen.”

I read the last slide to the group, I was pretty proud of my arguments.

“ Not a chance in hell.” Jirou

“What side were you even arguing for bro?” Sero

“I was rooting for you bro, but I don’t think I can anymore.” Kirishima

“From what you just showed me I think it’s safe I agree with the people who witnessed it, I can offer to be your kitchen chaperone though.”

Shinsous words made me blush, he just offed to watch my every move, which I think he already does. He hadn’t been around for all the kitchen fire so maybe he doesn’t understand how well he would have to watch me. Yeah, that makes more sense than someone wanting to watch me, I’m not the most entertaining person.

“That’s my job Zombie bitch, so find a different one. Dunceface!”

Bakugou waved for me to sit down next to him, that and his protective words make me feel special. I wince at the name but still walk to sit in his right, between him and Shinsou but he grabs my waist and moves me to his left so I’m in between him and the armrest. His hand rests on my lower back.

“ Bakugou, your acting a little protective of Denki.”

Jirou mention, and though I agree I wished she wouldn’t mention it cause he’ll probably stop and I like the feeling I get when he protects me.

“Yeah, you act like his dad or something.”

Sero mentions, I don’t see it that way, I hope he doesn’t see me as his son.

“Shut up you idiots!”

Bakugou says in a harsh tone but at a speaking level, not yelling or anything.

“Yeah bro, he’s too young to be a Denkis dad, he’s more like a brother, Bakubro, that could be your new nickname”

Kirishima said with a look of focus on his face, this was series for him.

“You’re totally right Kiri, he’s like the older protective brother in romances, and the younger sibling ends up dating his best friend or worst enemy, and they have to keep it a secret.”

I don’t think I like older brother any more than dad, I don’t want Bakugou to treat me like family.

“Ok let’s move on guys, Bakubro you want to go?”

Shinsou seemed to be purposely irritating Bakugou, I would have thought it was funny if the joke wasn’t about him being my brother.

“Fuck no, why don’t you go Mr.hypnosis?”

“Fine by me, let me get set up.“

While Shinsou got ready, I felt Bakugou pull me closer, or I think he did, it could just be my imagination.

“Ok welcome to my slide show, Why I would be a great boyfriend.”

I think Shinsou picked kind of a weird topic, I mean why make a slide show about being a good boyfriend in front of people that he would never date. I tried to pay attention but I didn’t want to, it makes me feel lonely to hear people talk about dating, even if it’s hypothetical. I start to nod off, I normally don’t fall asleep this early, but it makes sense today because I took a test in class so I couldn’t take my nap today, and Shinsou’s voice is just so soothing.

Bakugou

“ Yeah, you act like his dad or something.”

Sero must have thought that it was funny to add on, it wasn’t.

“Shut up you idiots!”

I wasn’t going to listen to these extras talk about me being related to Denki, fuckin idiots, I thought I hide my crush well, but I didn’t know I was such a great fucking actor that they think were related.

“Yeah guy, he’s too young to be Denki’s dad, he’s more like a brother, Bakubro, that could be your new nickname.”

I was glad Shittyhair stopped them, but then he called me “Bakubro” he would be dead right now if I wasn’t worried about Shinsou taking my spot if I moved, I ain’t letting that mindfucker near Denki.

“You’re totally right Kiri, he’s like the older protective brother in romances, and the younger sibling ended up dating his best friend or worst enemy, and they have to keep it a secret.”

Of fucking course I know that troupe but I imagined myself as the boyfriend not the asshole of a brother.

“Ok let’s move on guys, Bakubro you want to go?”

I know what this mother fucker is tru=ing to get my spot and sit with Denki, not on my watch.

“Fuck no, why don’t you go Mr. Hypnostis?”

That’s right fuck your plan, go present about your cats or some shit.

“Fine by me, let me get set up.”

Why the hell does he seem happy about this, I’m the one next to Denki, pull him just a little closer to make sure he’s still there, he is. Which means I’m the winner in this situation, what does this bastard have planned?

“ Ok welcome to my slide show, Why I would be a great boyfriend.”

Oh nothing to be worried about, he thought he was doing something. Well guess what general studies boy, this won’t convince Denki of shit, and it wouldn’t matter because I wouldn’t let you get close enough to even ask him out. Though I’m not worried I’m still pissed, most of what he is presenting is bullshit or it inst enough, just proving to me that he doesn’t deserve Denki. He doesn’t even deserve to think he could h date Denki, he didn’t have the right to imply that the “significant other” was Denki, he doesn’t deserve to even lo-- who the fuck is touching me, oh its Denki. He’s using me as a pillow, I would never let anybody use me, but this was different this was nice. It also meant that Denki didn’t give a shit about Shinsou’s presentation, so it’s a win-win for me. I look at the sleeping angel on my shoulder, then I look up and make eye contact with the fucken bitch presenting, I don’t even try to hide the smug look on my face, keeping eye contact I pull Denki as close to me as I can, he’s warm, and I like that. I see purple brain’s face falter for a second, but then he continues his presentation with a little less enthusiasm than earlier. When he’s done presenting, he leaves, probably too jealous to be around me, as he should be. The rest of the extras do their slide show, Hair for brains does his on manliness, Sero showed off everyday items but they were made of his tape, I’ve seen him use some of the items, like the tape mug he uses every god damn mourning. I convinced the group of extras to let me stay where I was sitting for the presentation because Denki was still on my shoulder and I wasn’t about to remove him from it. My presentation was called “ how to cook you dipshits” one of my slides was actually dedicated to Denki and his strange skill of burning down the kitchen, I think it’s a little funny that my and his slides were connected.

Since I was the last one, and it was almost curfew time, everyone went to their rooms. I stayed for a little longer, still enjoying the warmth Denki was giving off. Eventually, it was a curfew so I carefully moved Denki off me, got up, and picked him up. I made it to his dorm room, but when I went to open it, I found it locked. I searched Denki for the key but I found none, while I was trying to figure out what to do Denki whispered.

“ Are we gonna have a sleepover Baku?”

Hearing just the begging of my last name was a little weird but it was also cute, only cute cause he did it.

“Only if you want idiot.”

Denki groaned in my arms.

“Of course I do.”

I whispered an ok but I think he fell back asleep before he heard it. I carried him to my room, and the closer I got to my room the heavier he seemed. So when I got to the door I set him down and leaned him against the wall, so I could open the door. While I was distracted Denki fell over and there was a soft thud. I panicked but relaxed when I saw he was fine. I heard a creak from the door next to me. I look up and there stands my new insomniac neighbor, Shinsou.

“What are you doing with Kaminari?”

His voice was more serious than normal, as if I was doing something wrong, it pissed me off.

“I’m bringing him to a bed.”

“Why not bring him to his own bed then?”

“ Because his door was locked and I couldn’t find the key, then he said he wanted to a sleepover. Does that check out with you officer?”

“Why would he want to have a sleepover with you?’

I was done with his accusing tone.

“ Because we’re friends, and in the past when we had sleepovers he was happy, oh or maybe it’s because I give him the best damn cuddles he could ever need. Now excuse me but I’m going to bed cause I’m fucking tired.”

I pick up Denki and bring him into my room and place him on my bed, I was unsure if I should get in the bed with him, but when he started patting the bed as if he was looking for someone, I decided to be that someone, even if I’m not the one he was looking for.

All characters belong to Horikoshi and his series Boku No Hero Academia

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why-this-kolaveri-machi · 3 years

Note

Dick and Jason are Robins at the same time

(titans ‘verse. au after 1.06)

(tagging @superohclair and @cautiousamber!)

dick has to admit that it’s not the worst arrangement: jason continues to be robin in gotham, and dick travels across the country with his little family while running from a homicidal cult, wearing the costume every now and then when he has no choice but to fight. this way batman is covered, dick still has access to some advanced gear and weaponry now that he needs it, and internet sleuths are kept on their toes when robin shows up in different ends of the country on the same day.

so what if reading news coverage of batman and robin in gotham feels like being punched in the chest, or hearing jason’s stories about learning new things from bruce everyday makes dick want to scream into a pillow? he is fine with this.

he. is. fine--

(kory knows he’s fraying at the edges. she watches, and she says nothing.)

the fight to help rachel and defeat trigon is long and hard, and involves painstakingly unravelling kory’s memories. they manage to find her spaceship, and it becomes their base for a good long while. they stay there long enough that dick loses some of the tension that’s had him on edge for... well. the better part of the last five years, to be honest.

dick begins training rachel and gar in earnest. kory is able to coax some memories of tamaranean cuisine and culture out, and dick is reminded more and more of the team that he lost everyday. despite his best efforts he’s invested now. he cooks and dances with kory (good thing he’s so flexible because the tamaranean version of a waltz is like a particularly sadistic game of twister), teaches rachel algebra and does yoga with gar. he even manages to forget about bruce for a bit.

jason shows up quite often when he figures out where they’re based, and after some initial tension, he becomes an unofficial member of their team (though at this stage dick is still reluctant to use that word). dick and jason patrol in the nearby city some nights, then go for ice cream later. dick’s even starting to see the strategic (and frankly comedic) potential of two robins on the same patrol.

time and familiarity softens how dick perceives jason: less reckless asshole and more bright young kid full of curiosity and a need to prove himself. he continues to tend towards gratuitous violence, but dick learns his triggers and helps jason recognise them as well. he soaks up the info on alien cultures and battles on kory’s ship faster than dick himself could hope to, and there is a terrible sort of tenderness to how he talks to the people he saves while on patrol. terrible, dick thinks, because he doesn’t know if he comes across like that now at all: soft and empathetic instead of aloof and shaking, too caught up in his own neuroses.

here’s the thing, the crux of it, the faultline that’s always threatening to break dick apart: he’s so afraid that he’s taken robin, his legacy, the ideals and persona that he modelled as a tribute to his parents, and made it into something so dark and broken that only batman could pass it on. jason showing up as his replacement one day only seemed to affirm that fear. but now, swinging through the skies with this kid who’s taken robin as an opportunity to learn and grow and be better, dick’s reminded of the best of his early days in the costume.

for the first time in what feels like forever, dick feels good about putting on the robin costume again.

(are you asking if dick tried to call home? of course he did. he chickens out and cuts the call to bruce after only a few rings, and feels a sad sort of vindication in noticing how bruce never attempts to call him back.

alfred picks up his call on the second ring, and dick feels like the smallest person in the world when he hears the genuine warmth, joy and relief in alfred’s voice as he greets him. there’s no excuse for dick refusing to talk to the man that practically raised him after his parents died and he knows it.

they talk for an hours while skirting around anything to do with bruce, which is an impressive feat all in itself. they finally talk about jason, and there’s a wistful sort of fondness in alfred’s voice as he says, “you’ve been a good influence on master jason.”

dick laughs. “he’s been a good influence on me.” it’s the first time he’s said it loud, but it feels true.

“you mustn’t underestimate the ways in which you change people, master dick,” alfred says. “you have been a light in our lives for so long.”

dick’s jaw clenches. all his memories of batman smudge together in never-ending shadow; when he thinks of bruce, he can only remember that remote expression on his face, that expression dick can project all his disgust and loathing and disappointment onto. maybe people should start considering how they influence me, dick wants to say. sometimes i can’t recognise who i’m seeing in the mirror every day and other times i hate him so much i want to--

“i miss you, alf,” he says instead, softly.

“my dear boy,” alfred starts, but he sounds choked. it’s ok. dick understands.)

things get worse, quickly. their enemies find and destroy their spaceship base, and they’re not nearly ready to take on trigon yet. they’re on the run again, alternating between motel rooms and empty warehouses.

the cult finally catches up to them; they are kidnapped and tortured for days in an abandoned asylum. they eventually escape, the building and the organisation in flames behind them, but the scars from the experience are deep: rachel is anxious and tearful almost all the time, gar’s usual cheer is replaced by a quiet, simmering self-loathing, kory refuses to talk about her experience but flinches at every touch, and dick... he feels like he’s been flayed, his mind and body laid raw and bleeding until nothing recognisable, nothing human is left. he can’t think, he can barely feel. half the time it feels like he’s observing what’s happening to him like it’s happening to somebody else entirely.

they’re a mess. he can’t do this, not when he feels like--like this. he resists calling anybody for help, but one night he breaks down and calls donna. he doesn’t remember what he says on the call, but wakes up the next morning, eyes raw, tear tracks on his face, and a text from donna that says: i’ll be there in a day. stay put, bw,

“wow you’re a mess,” jason says from a corner of the room. any other time, dick would be on his feet, demanding to know how jason found them. now though, he’s feeling out of his body again, and so he says, “i kind of am, aren’t i?” and watches the words float, parting the air above him.

jason sighs.

being with donna helps get his head on straight, even though at first her appearance threatened to bring back even more traumatic memories. she’s a soothing, sobering presence not just for him, but for the others as well. they continue to motel-hop as they prepare for their big final battle against trigon.

jason continues to find them, somehow. (dick wouldn’t put installing a tracker on one of them beyond him, but he’s much too tired to feel angry about that.) he chats with dick and sometimes they bond by watching a movie together or swinging from buildings in the chill, crisp night air, jason’s cackling laugh echoing in dick’s ears.

jason always leaves as quickly as he appears, but dick is grateful for his presence.

they defeat trigon, and there’s a party. even hank and dawn show up. jason is conspicuous in his absence.

after several unanswered texts and calls, dick bites the bullet and calls alfred. “hey alf,” he says when the man picks up, “is jason there?”

there’s a long pause at the other end of the line. then: “did master bruce not tell you?” his voice sounds uncharacteristically hoarse.

dick’s stomach starts to sink. he steps away from the others and into a quiet room. “tell me what?”

“master jason...” alfred sighs. “he--he was killed by the joker two months ago. the funeral was last week.”

dick stumbles back to sit on the bed. the phone threatens to fall from his numb fingers even while his heart thunders against his ribs. “that’s impossible,” he manages. “i saw him five days ago. we saw--” there’s a hysterical laugh building in his chest, howling like a thunderstorm, “fuck we saw moulin rogue together. he told me how much he fucking loves musicals, i--”

alfred’s voice is suddenly distant and tinny. dick looks down to see his phone on the floor. he’s suddenly very, very aware of the dryness of his palms, the hot flush at the tips of his ears, the tears that are starting to slide down his cheeks, the way his lungs are burning with shock and grief and rage--

“hey, dickie,” jason says, smiling at him. “glad you finally caught up.”

( send me an au and i’ll give you 5+ headcanons! )

#this got completely out of control #yikes #titans #my fic #dick grayson #jason todd #a byronic cupcake #a tragic jalebi #cw mental illness #ptsd #please let me know if i should tag/warn for anything #sillierthanasillylaugh

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mythgirlimagines · 3 years

Photo

This week, I have a brand-new talentswap MAID especially for you! If you couldn’t tell by the pun in the first sentence, this Myth is the Former Ultimate Maid!

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BACKSTORY AND TALENT

Originally living with her sisters at an orphanage, Myth watched as both of sisters got picked up by loving families, while poor Myth was left in the dust. In order to make herself more desirable to prospective parents, Myth taught herself how to cook and clean after all of the other kids in the orphanage. Eventually though, much to her joy, she was eventually was picked up by a wealthy family that eventually ditched her, despite being great at her maid duties. Eventually, after going through many wealthy families and being tossed out/abused/ignored, without a second thought, one family managed to keep her: a warm and loving family with an artistic prodigy for a daughter. For once, Myth felt the love and affection that she was starved for, after all of those years of isolation and being tossed out like common trash. All of those skills accumulated from both helping out at the orphanage and being raised as a maid for all of these wealthy families, earned her the Hope’s Peak title of Ultimate Maid.

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RELATIONSHIPS

Wyre Anon, Former Ultimate Artist

Born into an influential family of artistic geniuses, with their father being a master sculptor and their mother being a expert sketch artist, Wyre mainly specializes in the craft of both their parents, even though they are a master in practically every art form their parents can throw at them. When Wyre heard from their parents that someone was going to be adopted into their family, Wyre was ecstatic at the idea, and Myth quickly proved themself as a great servant and sister figure. Myth regularly serves food and cleans up after Wyre, when they gets particularly busy. Every since Wyre heard about Myth’s past with all of the other families, they claim that they are willing to fight all of them, much to the protests of Myth.

Outfit: A brown paint-colored apron over a black sweater and matching pants and shoes, a tool belt with sculpting supplies, black fingerless gloves, glasses from original design.

Anon Scar, Ultimate Detective

Despite Scar’s eccentric behavior and constant talk of possessing an “All-Seeing Eye” under her eyepatch (which was actually lost in a battle between her and a particularly violent criminal), none of Scar’s clients can deny that she is a very competent detective, in spite of both that and her age. Her detective duties can get very stressful at times, but it seems Myth has a psychic connection to Scar’s distress, for she would always be there with whatever can calm Scar down. This has caused Scar to feel both intrigued (in regards to the possible existence of psychics) and concerned for Myth’s health and well-being (because of Myth‘s constant overexertion and overworking).

Outfit: A black and purple eyepatch on her left eye, a black jacket slung over her shoulders Yasuhiro-style, a black vest over a white dress shirt, black pants and black thigh high heels.

Fusion Anon, Ultimate Astronaut

Ever since he was little and went stargazing with his grandparents, Fusion has always showed an interest in reaching the stars and traveling beyond the boundaries. Having aced both the physical and written exams at NASA, despite his age, Fusion is well on his way to becoming a full-blown astronaut. Fusion also trains younger children who are planning on becoming astronauts just like him, via lectures on astronomy and little physical exercises to build up endurance, and he brought his astronaut-training seminars to the Kibo-Con. Myth regularly assists him in his seminars, and in return, Myth gets glow-in-the-dark star-shaped stickers and freeze-dried “astronaut grub” from Fusion.

Outfit: A blue galaxy printed jumpsuit over a red t-shirt with a yellow star on the front, black and dark grey gloves and matching boots, glasses from original design.

FU-510-N Mk. 2 (aka. Fusion Anon II), Ultimate Robot

FU-510-N Mk. 2 (or Fusion II as she’d like to be called) was a robot created by NASA, in order to both assist Fusion in his seminars and accompany him on his future space expeditions. Created to entertain adults as well as children during the lectures and training, Fusion II was written with more of a sarcastic edge to her dialogue with Fusion, making her a bit more of a straight man to Fusion’s cheerful and pun-loving funny man, almost like Fusion’s rebellious teen daughter. Fusion II bonded with Myth quickly over their shared statuses of being “assistants“ to others. But much to Fusion II’s dismay, it doesn’t seem like Myth is able to pick up on her sarcasm at all.

Outfit: A white exoskeleton, pink and black joints, and four small black wheels underneath her “skirt”, clothes from original design.

Just Anon, Ultimate Anthropologist

Running away from home, because of his massively rich, influential, and incredibly strict parents, with nothing but a backpack and his wits, Janon eventually found the one thing that actually interested him, while on his trek across the world: people and their cultures, which attracted him to the field of anthropology. After writing all about his travels and the philosophies he learned in a couple of journals he eventually published for the masses, Janon was revered as a genius in the field of anthropology. Despite planning on taking this secret to the grave, Janon has a secret soft spot for Myth, for she reminds her of the poor maids being crapped on by his influential family.

Outfit: A black facemask, a black overcoat over a pink t-shirt, a skull necklace, brown pants, black boots, a big brown backpack.

Sparkle Anon, Former Ultimate Entomologist

Specializing in lepidoptery and coleopterology, Sparkle intends on showing people all about the beauty of insects, in the most flamboyant and over-dramatic ways possible. Despite these idiosyncrasies, she is a respected figure by entomologists and aspiring entomologists everywhere. While Myth loves admiring the odd butterfly as much as the next person, Sparkle attracts insects like sugar water, and they are all a nightmare to remove and exterminate. The whole insect issue isn’t helped by the fact that Sparkle loudly and explicitly refuses to let Myth get rid of any of her “precious jewels”. Luckily, Sparkle shared some non-pesticide related methods to herd her insects, in case they get wild.

Outfit: A cape that resembles monarch butterfly wings with shoulder pads that look like rhino beetles, a green insect carrier, a brown skirt with darker brown ant patterns, the glasses, jacket, undershirt, leggings, and boots from her original design.

Egg Anon, Former Ultimate Child Caregiver, and Wet Sock Anon, Former Ultimate Aikido Master

With a childish, immature and cursed yet caring personality, Egg was a massive hit amongst the children of the orphanage that they and their twin Wet Sock were born and raised in. In order to protect the children that their twin cared for, the brooding and cynical Wet Sock decided to pick up aikido and self-defense skills, dominating bigger foes in all the tournaments they entered. Shouldering the burden of hearing the twin’s primary defense mechanism (read: cursed comments), Myth quickly bonded with Egg, thanks to their shared interest in caring for others. Myth tried to bond with Wet Sock, but because of them being tsundere, Myth only gets judo thrown in response.

Egg’s Outfit: Part of their hair tied up with a yellow scrunchie, a green hoodie with yellow sleeves, a fanny pack colored like their original shirt, black shorts, long yellow socks, green light-up-shoes, glasses from original design.

Wet Sock’s Outfit: Same outfit from the original, but with black aikido pants and matching sandals.

Curious Anon, Jr. Ultimate Supreme Leader/Assassin

With the dubious and odd title of “Jr. Ultimate Supreme Leader” and an enigmatic and stone-faced personality, almost nothing is known about this mysterious Jr. Ultimate, not even what their talent entails. What Myth and the majority of the media don’t know, is that Curious is that his title is actually the Jr. Ultimate Assassin and is current throneholder of a secret underground religious cult that is particularly known for brainwashing and teaching their children how to assassinate potential religious rivals. Luckily, Myth was fortunate enough to not cross paths frequently with Curious, for she would definitely try to adopt the preteen assassin with a messed-up upbringing, if she ever catches wind of the truth.

Outfit: A simple white robe with a green sash indicating leadership that hides their assassination weapons.

Anon Nerd, Former Ultimate Inventor

Being a mechanical genius born in a country that was ravished by a massive war, Nerd was quickly sent to work in manufacturing and inventing brand-new weapons for his nation’s army. This past has given him a hair-trigger temper and a hatred for being interrupted, when he is in the middle of inventing. And yet no matter how many scouter-burns she suffers in the process, she never remembers that little tidbit of information about, when she comes barging into Nerd’s lab with his dinner, much to the rage of the easily-enraged inventing prodigy. But beneath the foul mouth and even-fouler temper, could Nerd have fallen for Myth’s kind and earnest attitude, despite being very annoying?

Outfit: Black armor that covers everything apart from his head, and the scouter from his original design.

Eldritch Anon, Ultimate Pianist

Videos of a person garbed entirely in black and playing self-composed pieces have been springing up on the internet for the past year or so, and despite the mysterious person attempting to make absolutely sure that he wasn’t found, Hope‘s Peak found the true identity of the online piano prodigy: Eldritch Anon, a former piano champion, who has since retreated to the shadows in growing anxiety and fear. Whenever Eldritch thinks about anything he wants or needs, Myth would always be right behind him with his want or need in tow. Because of that, Eldritch now wears a tinfoil hat on his head at all times, to prevent Myth’s psychic powers from reaching him, to no avail.

Outfit: A black marching band outfit with white music note buttons, over a grey hood-up hoodie patterned with black sheet music, white gloves, tall black boots.

Dream Anon, Ultimate Magician

With infectious childlike cheer and unstoppable charisma on stage, Dream’s magical performances are truly a sight to behold, whether you’re a child or an adult. Dream has recently employed Myth as her magical assistant, and Myth regularly roped Dream out of trouble, just in case her magical performances go awry. But at the same time, Dream also took on sort of a mentor role to the maid. While Myth has entertained several guests with some minor parlor tricks, Myth would love to learn all about how Dream accomplishes all of her large-scale and stupendous, and how Myth can learn them herself. If Myth learns from the best, she would be able to entertain way more guests.

Outfit: A black and pink top hat, a black coat and white gloves over a pink vest, an orange bow tie and a white dress shirt, a pink skirt, grey stockings, and black tap shoes.

Iris Anon, Jr. Ultimate Cosplayer

Having been a regular consumer of fiction ever since she was little, she picked up sewing and fashion design from her parents and eventually began making accurate-to-the-show cosplay items, ranging from simple accessories to full-blown outfits. Despite being really clumsy when it comes to everything else, Iris is amazing at handicrafts. Myth and Iris consider each other “sewing buddies”, for their shared interests in sewing outfits and other such handicrafts. Iris regularly lets Myth model her cosplay, for they are about the same height and have the same proportions. Iris would be lying if she said she hadn’t tried sticking cat ears or dragon horns on Myth when she wasn’t looking.

Outfit: Hair down with a heart barrette on each side of her head, a pink jacket with sewing supplies in her pockets and on her sleeves over a seira fuku with a red ribbon and a blue skirt, black stockings and red Mary Janes.

Purple Anon, Ultimate Adventurer

As the daughter of two famous and affluent ambassadors, Purple has been to practically every corner of the globe. Because of her travels, Purple regularly talks in archaic terms mixed with the insertion of gratuitous foreign vocabulary into her sentences, which means that the majority of the Anons can‘t understand a word coming out of her mouth. Purple is also stunningly timid for the daughter of two ambassadors, and often hides behind Anons that are bigger than her for when she doesn’t want to be seen by the crowds. Even if Myth can’t understand much of what comes out of Purple’s mouth, Myth still loves seeing Purple slowly but surely come out of her shell and talk about her travels.

Outfit: The beret from her original design, a dark purple overcoat and brown gloves over the sweater from her original design, lighter purple pants, brown boots, a brown carrier bag.

This AU will center around the maid getting helped for once, much to her protests.

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PERSONALITY

Despite her less-than-stellar past, Maid!Myth has a cheery and energetic attitude that belies (and bolsters) her sheer aptitude as a maid and her joy is described as “infectious” amongst Wyre’s family. With definite “mom energy”, Maid!Myth always comes prepared with the wants and needs for each and everyone of the Kibo-Con attendees, and seems to have an almost telepathic ability to whatever they all want, which unnerves a couple of the Anons (namely Eldritch, Scar, and Purple). Even though she overworks herself to a fault and everyone constantly tells to take a break from her work, she constantly shoulders every burden and duty placed upon her, in hopes that they won’t abandon her, just like every other family before Wyre’s family. This gave her a case of “chronic hero syndrome”.

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APPEARANCE

Maid!Myth’s naturally brown hair is tied in a prim and proper bun, complete with a white and light pink French-maid style headdress. As for the rest of her clothing, Myth wears a white and light pink French Maid dress with the only exception to the “white and light pink style” being a ribbon around her waist with a pink-to-purple-blue gradient, purple socks and red Mary Janes.

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I hope you like this AU! Let me know what you think of the AU and its roles in your reblogs!

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kkeidawrites · 3 years

Text

Gone

For the next several days, Alucard ignored and avoided Esmé like the plague and she didn’t blame him. Who exactly can bounce back to living their lives after killing their father? From what little information that Alucard had given to her and the others, Dracula was once a good and loving, family man but, when the church accused his wife of witchcraft and burnt her at the stake, he snapped.

Now his only son, walks the empty halls of the castle he grew up in, alone, grief-stricken, and sad. Esmé made the decision to stay with him until she felt she needed to return to her own home in Jova, well what’s left of it, if she’s more specific.

Esmé busied herself in the small kitchen that the castle had and worked on preparing lunch for both her and Alucard. She has been trying to get him to eat something, but, he would either not touch it or tell her not to bother trying to make him something to eat. Esmé felt hopeless.

What could she do to help him? In this case not much, but the effort she has been putting in for the last few days proved that she wasn’t letting him rot away in this castle.

Trevor told him not to make this place his tomb and he’s doing the exact opposite of what he said.

Finding some leftover meat, Esmé put a hefty slab on one piece of bread and a more medium sized one on another slice of bread, the plates she had them on looked like they hadn’t never been used. Gently, putting the other piece of bread on top of both meats, Esmé moved the two plates to set them on the table behind her then went in search to find a drink for the both of them and almost jumped out of her skin when she saw Alucard before her.

Was he there this whole time and she didn’t notice? Placing a hand her chest where her heart was pounding erratically.

“Alucard, you startled me!” she cleared her throat and stood a bit straighter to properly greet him. The man before her was silent, as always, just watching her.

“Would you like something to eat? I found some boar meat, and I was just looking for something for the both of us to drink.” Esmé told him as she motioned to the two plates on the table and he turned his head to look at the meals.

Looking back at her, Alucard picked up one of the plates and smelled the meat in the sandwich. He moaned softly at the smell and Esmé had to supress a grin. She knew he was hungry, so maybe the smell of uncooked meat would make him at least try and nibble on something.

“You didn’t cook it.” he stated in his low monotone voice.

“Well, honestly,” Esmé scratched the back of her head in embarrassment and the dhampir raised an eyebrow at her.

“I thought you would have preferred the meat uncooked because, well, I don’t know, it would taste more...appetizing?” she tried and Alucard’s face broke out in shock before he try to catch the small laugh that left his lips then a full blown chuckle erupted from him.

Esmé’s heart soared in happiness that she was able to get a smile from him, Hell even a hearty laugh!

“Thank you.” he said and Esmé nodded, nervously rubbing her arm.

“I want to be there for you Alucard.” she said taking a step to be standing in front of him.

“Ever since we ended our journey, I feel that you and I have grown closer,” she hesitantly reached out for his hand but, then brought it back down to rest by her side. Perhaps he wasn’t ready for that quite yet. She was getting ahead of herself and her eyes downcast to watch her shifting feet.

“But, I will be here for as long as you’ll let me. Alucard,” her eyes found his again as he was watching her intently.

“I am here for whenever you are ready to talk.” Esmé promises him and Alucard had an unreadable expression on his face.

The golden haired man didn’t say anything and Esmé took this opportunity to change the subject. She picked up her plate and moved to sit down at the table.

“Why don’t we have some lunch?” you suggested.

Alucard placed his plate down on the table and looked down at it, as if he was contemplating if he really wants to eat right now or not.

Esmé took a nervous bite from her sandwich, Esmé watched Alucard closely as he still stared at his sandwich. She suddenly had a great idea.

Taking a big bite out of her sandwich, Esmé gave an obnoxious moan, as she chewed happily. The dhampir raised an eyebrow at her.

“Mmm! So good!” she moaned and Alucard shook his head with a sad smile.

“I know that you are trying Esmé and I do appreciate it,” he made his way over to where she sat, with a mouthful of boar meat, and knelt down by her to look in her eyes.

“But...” he took her left hand in his and kissed her knuckles. Esmé almost choked and felt her cheeks burn. His amber eyes returned to her

“I just need a little more time.” he whispered to her, his voice cracking as tears welled up in his eyes.

“Alucard-” she whispered his name but, the dhampir glowed red and all that was left was his shadows. Esmé sighed sadly, he still wasn’t ready to open up to you yet. A lone tear rolled down her cheek and Esmé wiped it away.

‘Don’t worry Alucard. I won’t leave you alone.” she thought as she took another bite from her sandwich.

Two days passed, and Esmé has made it her mission to try and find ways to cheer up Alucard. At night she would hear him crying, even hear him walking the empty halls for all hours of the night.

It was raining one day and Esmé decided that she didn’t want to change out of her night gown, it felt like a lazy day and that’s exactly what she was going to do today. She wrapped herself in a plush robe and threw her long hair over her shoulder.

Walking over to the french doors that led to the balcony, Esmé opened them and watched as the rain trickled on the railing. The sound was peaceful and she closed her eyes to take in the soft pattering of the drops.

Her hair was out of its usual long braid and swayed behind her as she moved to sit at the vanity in the room. Taking the brush, she began to run the bristles through her thick mane and started parting it into long braids. Once she finished with her hair, one braid came undone and Esmé sighed in annoyance.

“This is why, I keep you in a single braid so I won’t have to worry about you later.” she fussed to her mane.

Starting the process all over again, Esmé didn’t hear the door to her bedroom open or the looming figure that stood behind her.

As she finished the braid, Esmé gasped when she saw Alucard in the mirror, staring at her. Turning to him, both of her braids unraveled and Esmé watched as he took a step closer to her.

He knelt in front of her so that they were face to face and Esmé gulped in anticipation. He opened his mouth to speak but, then closed it when he didn’t know what to say and then grabbed her left hand.

“I don’t think I will have another opportunity like this in the future.” He took a deep breath and looked deep in her brown eyes.

“From the moment you appeared in my life I had a feeling that things weren’t going to be the same. You’re so precious to me.” he caressed the side of her face and Esmé leaned into his hand. Her eyes twinkled and she gave a smile.

“There is nothing I could convey how much you mean to me, how much your presence keeps me sane.” he continues and got to his feet pulling her to her feet. He laced their hands together and Esmé suddenly felt shy.

“Words fail me sometimes,” he began with a sigh and shook his head.

“I have never felt more alive than I do when you’re with me. There’s no way I could survive without you, if you left me now...I think I would be more broken than I already am.” he put her hands on his chest where his heart was and looked deep in her eyes.

“So, I have to ask,” Esmé gave him her undivided attention, her own heart beating in anticipation.

“Will you be mines?” he asked. Esmé‘s eyes widened at him and she looked down, dejectedly suddenly feeling insecure.

“Alucard...are you sure that you want me? I mean...I’m just a poor farmer girl who was taught speaker magic by her dying father. I’m not a princess or any type of noble, and yet you want me?” she said.

Alucard smiled at her and released one of her hands to gently grasp her chin. Raising her chin to look at him, Alucard brought her lips to his to seal a kiss between them. Esmé relaxed in his embrace and Alucard moved his free hand to cup her cheek as he deepened the kiss.

Once their lips parted, Esmé was panting softly while Alucard used his thumb to caress her cheek.

“Nothing more would make me happier than to have you as mine. Farm girl and all.” he said with a chuckle and Esmé smiled shyly.

“Then if your offer still stands,” Esmé said letting her hand lay on his chest where he took a shuddering breath.

“Yes, Alucard I will be yours.” his eyes widened at her answer and his hands found her shoulders.

“Yes?” he asked. Esmé laughed and nodded.

“You really said yes?”

“Yes Adrian, I will be yours; now and forever.” Esmé confirmed and she was suddenly in the air being spun around by him, laughter leaving his lips.

Esmé put her hands on his shoulders to keep herself steady in his arms as she too giggled from his antics.

Once she was set back on her feet, the two lovers looked in one another’s eyes and closed the gap between them, to press their lips together in a passionate kiss.

Esmé‘s arms wrapped around his neck and Alucard wrapped one around her waist and the other around her back, pulling her close.

Parting, the look of lust clouded his eyes and Esmé shivered.

“Mine.” he growled to her and Esmé nodded in agreement.

“Yours.” she whispers.

End of part 2!

1 // 2 // 3 //

#gone pt. 2 #alucard x reader #castlevania!alucard x reader #Alucard #Castlevania #castlevania x reader #black reader #black oc #adrian tepes x reader #adrian tepes #my writing #fanfiction

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seyaryminamoto · 3 years

Note

What is something Sokka only ever did and does with and for Azula? I'm not talking about his love but an act. The hairdoing question was because I like the first time he does Azulas hair lots It is a particular thing and the imagination him only doing Azulas hair is individual. I did not ask because of jealousy rather of particularity. I can't find anything he only did does for with Azula

... Right. So, in about 200 chapters worth of story, you haven’t seen anything Sokka has exclusively done for Azula? I... do advise you read more closely. But if you don’t want to...

Represents her as her personal fighter, at first because of their deal, after their relationship blooms he does it because he’s 100% devoted to her in every way that counts. To him, their bond is one of a kind and he does his best to grow stronger so he can continue to fight with and for her, so she may be granted all the respect she deserves. He outright rejects being sponsored by anyone but her, and even when they had no choice but to have Zuko sponsoring him (chapter 56), Sokka said it wasn’t the same because he wanted HER. So her role as her sponsor is one of a kind for him, and he absolutely would never have that kind of bond with anyone else.

Protects her with his body whenever they’re falling off places, something Azula has remarked on more than once. He takes the worst of the impact every time, shielding her however he can. To this day, I’m pretty sure he hasn’t done that with anyone else? (chapter 38, chapter 77).

He opened up to her when he was troubled (chapter 50), sharing some of his innermost turmoil and suffering, letting her help him when he usually would rather not burden anyone else with what plagues him. Further proof of how deeply he trusts her, enough to start putting aside his bad habit of bottling up his troubles for her.

Refused an opportunity to go home AND reconnect with the first person he truly felt comfortable with in the FIre Nation (Piandao), choosing to stay by Azula’s side instead and protect her from people who would most likely harm her (chapter 54).

Nearly killed two gladiators whose sponsors were attempting to marry Azula against her will (chapter 70, chapter 169).

Put aside every shred of his dignity and accepted all punishments Azula forced on him, enduring everything because he thought he deserved it for wronging her (the ENTIRE Rough Rhinos arc).

Gave her the better portions of food during their accidental trip through the forest (again, Rough Rhinos arc) AND saves food for her (chapter 124), meaning, prioritizing her needs over his own. We all KNOW how much Sokka loves food, Azula more than anyone, and the implications of him not eating so she could have more were pretty clear regarding how much she means to him, as far as I can tell.

Cooked for her, sometimes to catastrophic results, but he still tried :’D (chapter 131, chapter 151 to a fault).

Writes haiku for her, and it’s SPECIFICALLY STATED that he only manages to complete proper poems whenever he’s writing about her, as everything else he writes he leaves incomplete or adds too many syllables (chapter 38, chapter 104).

Controls his strongest impulses very often when it comes to physical affection throughout Part 1 (namely in Ember Island and Giving In arcs), always privileging her needs above his own. He’s willing to stop before outright penetrative sex in chapter 97, for Azula’s benefit, and only goes for it when she directly asks him to. Her comfort and happiness are the priority, not his own.

Embarrasses himself willingly just to make her laugh (I’m sure there are many possible examples of this, but right now I can’t find them, but I found one instance of it in chapter 130, at least).

Challenged a nobleman (Kuan) for behaving disrespectfully towards Azula, by dismissing her interests and choices, yet Sokka restrained himself when Azula demanded it of him (chapter 36) and accepted the punishment Kuan forced on him without further protest or causing any more trouble for Azula.

Looked after her when she was sick, no matter if she was really mad at him at the time (White Lotus Attack arc).

Cheered her up after the first ball in the Festivals, after listening to her personal plight with Admiral Zhao (chapter 94)

Offered to teach basic swordsmanship to a kid so that the kid’s father would be on good terms with Azula, helping her craft stronger political allies (chapter 133).

Defends Azula constantly before anyone who may try to undermine or insult her (outright punched Zuko for saying thoughtless things about his sister in chapter 64, lashed out at Iroh for talking shit about her in chapter 95, attacked Rhone as soon as he spoke against Azula in 114 and threatened him in 160).

Comforts her often whenever she’s troubled, especially in matters pertaining her parents and the unpleasant strife they’ve caused her, both in the past and in current times (Ember Island arc, The Fire Nation Festivals arc, The Fire Lord’s Shadow arc). He’s also not judgmental, doesn’t tell her what to think, he mainly listens and helps her deal with her conflicted feelings.

Gladly agrees to change their original deal so he can stay with Azula for good instead of returning to his family, as he intended (chapter 107, Whaletail Island arc).

CRAFTED A BETROTHAL NECKLACE FOR HER??? :’) (chapter 131)

MARRIED HER. TWICE (Return to Shu Jing arc). I mean... really. The very logic of marriage says it’s something absolutely special you don’t do with just ANYONE? And they certainly live by that logic, completely. That something so obviously unique to his relationship with her happened so recently and yet you still sent this ask is... weird to me. Very weird.

In a slightly more intimate note: Sokka has never slept through the night with anyone but Azula. He has never woken up with someone beside him other than Azula. She’s literally the only one he’s ever done that with, and the only one he ever wants to do it with. Started in chapter 64, has happened many, many times since.

Endeavors to become a better painter because she inspired him to keep trying. They’ll start making collaborative art together starting in chapter 201 :’) and in 221 they will make a veeeery special artwork that’s basically their masterpiece.

Climbed a volcano to find a flower to give to her as a token of everlasting love? (chapter 125) :’D

Nearly died at the hands of Jeong Jeong’s schemes all be it to stay loyal to Azula (also chapter 125).

Got her a Fire Lily in the Festivals, something no one else had ever done for her, cultural connotations of it demand I single this out because it’s a big deal in the Fire Nation, he’s never done that for anyone else and never will (chapter 146).

Constantly asks for her lychee wine, her favorite drink, whenever they go places. The fact that Azula’s heart seems to grow twenty sizes every time he goes out of his way to find her perfect drink should be pretty telling...?

Overworked himself to make her dragon’s perfect armor as a birthday gift for her (Azula’s birthday arc), then still managed to win a fight for her sake despite his body was in bad shape.

Told her being without her feels like sleepwalking through life, waiting until she’s around again so he can wake up and feel like himself once more (chapter 86).

Offered his services and support in helping in the fulfillment Azula’s dream of offering women in the Fire Nation bigger opportunities and roles to make a difference in the world, by training the Enforcers in swordsmanship (Whaletail Island arc).

Accompanied Azula throughout her investigation in The Fire Lord’s Shadow arc, offering her all the support he could in that endeavor, day and night if need be, no matter how dangerous things got he was always there with her.

Trusted Azula so much he allowed her to BEND THROUGH HIM :’) I can guarantee that there’s no way anyone else can do that with Sokka other than Azula.

Sneaks out of his house, or his cabin, to spend nights with her whenever they can afford to, seen all throughout Part 2.

Changed his entire worldview to understand hers, just as she changed hers to understand his. Developed genuine empathy with someone who should have been his enemy, and saw through her to understand her humanity, something NO ONE BUT HIM had done before, and something he’s certainly not willing to do for many people he started out hating, or that he hated at any point in time (literally seen all through the story).

So... 33 items not enough yet, I wonder? Then stick around. The last arcs of Part 2 pack more than a few punches and many unique Sokkla interactions and situations that MIGHT just serve for you to finally see that their bond is actually one of a kind? Despite I’m pretty sure the story that already has been published proves it completely already... but I guess you may have gone too long witthout reading it in full detail? Eh, whatever the reason may be, you can see for yourself there’s a ton of unique things Sokka and Azula have only done with each other.

#anon #long post #sorry #gladiator #just #*tosses this into the void*#and I'm dead sure #I forgot a ton of things #just by nature their bond is one of a kind #so excuse me if I'm too harsh #but #I can't see how this question is necessary at all

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another-sonic-blog · 4 years

Text

By Accident Ch.2

Part one: https://another-sonic-blog.tumblr.com/post/618876056624054272/how-about-one-where-amy-discovers-shadow-in-stasis

This chapter's synopsis: After waking up Shadow from stasis, Amy and the black hedgehog spend some time together before going to see the Federal Reservation Bank, home to a Chaos Emerald. However, the longer Shadow spends time with Amy the more he realizes that he is having conflicted feelings about destroying Earth. This leads him to a final resolution.

ShadAmy (Platonic/Romantic it's up to you)

The sun began to rise as it helped the sky decorate its blue canvas with soft pastel colors. Flowers bloomed as they began to be touched by sunlight, they detached a sweet aroma that could even be smelled by the unskilled nose.

Shadow the Hedgehog looked outside the window from Amy's apartment where he could see people coming out of their houses, ready to start a new day. There was a new unknown feeling that was taking over his body. He wasn't tense, his body completely relaxed and although he didn't sleep he didn't feel tired ... He was at a complete state of tranquility. Something that he wasn't used to since leaving in the Space Colony ARK. Constant test, needles coming in and out of him, Xrays, and overexerting his body in every possible way was an everyday item to him. Although there were very loving and caring scientists at the ARK, not everyone was. Must of them saw Shadow for the living weapon that he was, nothing more and nothing less. Even Professor Gerald Robotnik saw him as such but instead of a weapon, he saw Shadow as a cure. The Ultimate Life Form, his body was perfect in every sense of the world. Undefeatable.

All the power in the world and he couldn't save the only person he truly cared for.

The black hedgehog looked at the people walking underneath him. So small and fragile but still a smile plastered on their faces. How could they be happy when their race only seeks for destruction? How can they be happy when they can only feel hate towards each other? Humanity was rotten from the very pinnacle of its core and Shadow wanted nothing more but its demise.

How can they be happy when they took away the person he loved the most?

Even with the pain, hate, and suffering inside of him ... Shadow didn't want to do it. He didn't want to destroy this pathetic planet but ...

He will do it.

The promise he made to Maria is more important than Shadow's conflicted feelings. Maria wanted revenge and for all that's sacred, Shadow was going to give it to her.

"Shadow?"

His moment of rage was broken as Shadow heard the sleepy voice of the pink hedgehog who opened the doors of her house to him. Shadow reminded himself that he shouldn't get attached to anyone, especially Amy who seemed to have her way into people's hearts ... quiet easily. However, Shadow couldn't deny that the pink hedgehog has come in handy to him. She cooks for him, gives him a roof and-

"Are you alright? Did you sleep?"'

She gives him company.

Something he didn't need nor want but it was greatly appreciated. It was going to be complicated to destroy the world she seemed to love so much, Amy will probably hate him when she finds out ... if she ever does. Shadow will try to keep the destruction of the world a secret for as long as he can. At least until he makes sure Amy is safe at the ARK and that's if she wants to come along with him.

"You know that I don't need to sleep," Shadow said still looking outside the window. A heavy sigh left Shadow's lips as if he was letting out all the anger that built up inside of him just a few moments ago. Once again he felt tranquil. "I'll be fine ... soon enough."

There were a lot of moments in which Amy questioned Shadow and if she was being completely honest there was doubt within her. The pink one knew that Shadow was hiding something. However, she decided to let the feeling go. He was just a mysterious hedgehog who wanted to go home, nothing wrong with that. Amy could trust him and she will.

"I'll cook something and then we can go to the Federal Reserve Bank of Capital City." Amy walked towards the black hedgehog. Again, she could notice that same sad look. Full of anger, pain ... If there was a way Amy could console him, she would. But how? There was a wall around him, one where there was no way she could climb up nor go underneath. Nonetheless, she was stubborn as well. It didn't matter how long nor how many hits it took, she was going to break down Shadow's wall.

Federal Reserve Bank?" Shadow asked this time he was facing the pink hedgehog.

"That's where the Chaos Emerald is."

Shadow thought that it was just a matter of eating breakfast and getting to the place where the Chaos Emerald is located. However, it seemed like the pink hedgehog had other things in mind. She took him to places that he only had seen in magazines and books back at the ARK. Places that Maria always wanted to visit.

"When I get better we definitely need to go to a shopping center! I wanna buy cute clothes and ice cream!"

"Shadow, once we go down to Earth we should go to a park! It would be nice to race against you!"

Something was screaming in Shadow's mind, telling him to tell the pink lady to stop playing around. What surprised him the most was his level of patience, he was supposed to be completing his plan to destroy the world but instead here he was. Following a pink girl around to sightsee.

It was late afternoon now, the sun once again helps paint the blue sky with pastel colors. The only difference was this time the color palette was darker. Purples and blues showed up and Shadow mentally smacked his forehead already disappointed that he might lose this day.

Maybe he could sneak outside during the night while Amy is asleep. But what if she wakes up and doesn't find him? Will she suspect him?

And what if she does? What does that matter to him? Shadow needed to continue his plan to destroy the world, that was the only thing that mattered to him now.

"Are you enjoying yourself Shadow?" Amy asked as she looked over at the black hedgehog with a smile on herself.

"No."

"Oh ..."

Chaos gracious, Shadow doesn't even know where to start with this one. He regretted being so upfront with her even if he was speaking up his real feelings.

"My apologies, it's just that I am desperate to get a Chaos Emeralds."

Although Shadow wasn't looking directly at the people, he felt the presence of humans passing by them. Some looked, some didn't care and to be fully honest Shadow never thought he would be walking around with humans as normal as this. On the vast streets that were filled with cars, cafes, restaurants, lights, and all of these mechanical things he quite didn't understand ... yet. He was never fond of the loud sounds but this was quite amusing to him.

"No, I am sorry," Amy said. "I know you want to get home and to do that you need the Chaos Emerald but ... I don't know I just thought that maybe you would like to sightsee before you go? I also wanted to spend some time with you before we parted ways ..."

When Amy says things like this, it becomes more complicated for him to think of the destruction of the Earth. His need to protect her increased to levels that even worried him. Now it wasn't a matter of Amy wanting to come along with him to the ARK. It was as if Shadow needed her to come with him.

No, he can't let those feelings take over him. He can't get attached and he shouldn't. Not after what the world has already taken from him.

"Yes, I need to go home but that doesn't mean my journey with you ends once I get the Chaos Emerald." Shadow looked over to Amy who was walking next to him, a bit too close for his comfort but at the moment he didn't mind. "I still need to help you find your friend, remember?"

"Oh, you are right!" Amy said, a bit surprised. "Thank you Shadow, most of the time I am left behind ... So, I thought that maybe you would do the same."

This time a sad smile was placed on her face. As if Amy was remembering a nostalgic memory, maybe someone who she was found off mixed with a sad memory. Anger suddenly began to rise within the black hedgehog. Whoever dared to leave behind such a kind-hearted person like Amy was an awful creature.

However, the rosette hedgehog was back to her bubbly self. She smiled the brightest that she could and looked at Shadow with her Emerald eyes.

"But I know you won't do that to me right, Shadow?" Amy asked.

This was becoming difficult. Way too difficult. Shadow was once again conflicted with his feelings, he shouldn't care much about this girl but still he does.

"No, I won't," Shadow said and really meant it ...

So then, why did Shadow felt like he was lying?

The Federal Reserve Bank was one of the most secure places in Capital City, may even in the whole world. A great facility, robots, guns, lasers, soldiers, nothing that Shadow couldn't handle.

Amy and Shadow were a few meters away from it as to Shadow's request. Although the facility was on the outskirts of the city, it was still very concurred by people, especially G.U.N. agents. Shadow knew that it was better to keep his distance now.

"I have a friend who works for the government, I think we can ask her to help us convince them to lend us the Chaos Emerald-"

Amy's voice was cut off as an explosion was heard on the Federal Reserve Bank. The gates that were surrounding the facility were no longer there and Amy immediately recognized the person behind this.

"That's Dr. Eggman!" Amy said to Shadow. "I have to stop him! He must be after the Chaos Emerald."

They were hiding behind some bushes where there was not a possibility of them being detected. Amy looked at the facility once again, determination on her eyes. Maybe this time she could prove to Sonic that she could be useful.

"Who is this Dr. Eggman?" Shadow asked, trying to get Amy's attention so her mindset would move away from entering the facility.

"He is a villain. Dr. Eggman is always trying to conquer the world and he is always after the Chaos Emeralds." Amy said. "I wonder what does he need them for now."

"This information can come in handy later on."

A quick thought crossed his mind. This was it, the means as to how to start his plans. But first he needed to do something.

"I need you to go back home, I got this. I'll stop him by myself-"

"No."

Shadow quickly interrupted, Amy had such a determination on her face that could intimidate anyone ... but him.

"I don't like being left behind Shadow and I won't leave you alone either," Amy said. "He can hurt you, what if you need me to protect you?"

"From what I remember I was the one who protected you from that guard of robots a few days ago."

"And? I still helped you get out! I can take care of myself."

"I can take care of myself!" Maria caught the red ball with her hands, an angry look placed on her face. "I want to play too!"

"Dear, even if you feel good that doesn't mean that you are." One of the scientists approached the blond one, trying to provide her with some comfort. "But your health is very delicate, one small agitation and may end up in the infirmary again ... You don't want that do you?"

"But I want to play with Shadow!" Maria said.

"Shadow is very strong, he may even hurt you if he were to throw that ball."

The black hedgehog watched from afar, a bit sad that his best friend wasn't able to play with him the activities that he enjoyed.

"Don't worry Maria," Shadow approached her, a delicate and comforting voice coming from him. "We can read a book or do a puzzle if you want."

Even when Shadow tried not to compare Amy to Maria, there was an evident share of personalities within the two. This brought back a faint memory, one that he wished he could relive again.

"I know you can take care of your self," Shadow's voice changed and this took the pink one by surprise. "I don't want you to come with me ... because I don't want you to get hurt."

Shadow the Hedgehog was the Ultimate Life Form but even he had failed to protect the one he cared for the most. His failure was something that will always hunt him in the form of insecurity. He was the Ultimate Life Form and he failed to protect a little girl. Who is he to say that the same thing won't happen to Amy? What if he can't protect her? What if he can't be there when she needs him?

"It's not like I don't trust your abilities ..." Shadow made a pause as he took a moment to appreciate Amy's emerald eyes. "It's more like I don't trust myself to protect you if need me to."

There it was again, that sadness, that painful look. There was a reason behind his insecurity and although Amy wanted to know why she knew she couldn't do that at the moment. Just what had happed to Shadow that made him be this insecure about himself? Heck, Amy was utterly impressed when she saw him destroy that guard of robots back at Prison Island. He had unique and amazing abilities ... but even he had his insecurities.

"Will you be back by dinner?"

Maybe, she was finally understanding the black hedgehog. Amy now knew that she wouldn't be able to break down the wall that Shadow had built up around him no matter how much she tried to destroy it. It was a matter of giving Shadow time, space, and understanding ... And that way maybe ... He would be the one to destroy his wall.

The dark hedgehog gave Amy a small smirk, one that pierced through the pink hedgehog's heart. Hopefully, she would be there to see more of that enchanting smile.

"I'll try my best," Shadow replied.

"You will come back, right?"

Almost like plead, Shadow's heart begged him to not stay away from the pink hedgehog. To forget everything and to not destroy the planet that Amy seemed to love so much.

But he couldn't. Shadow had made a promise to the most important person in the universe, to Maria ... and he always keeps his promises.

"I promise."

Obtaining the Chaos Emerald was too easy. The black and red striped hedgehog even felt a little bit guilty that he took down every single agent and robot at the facility. In his hands now was a green Chaos Emerald.

"It all starts with this ... A jewel containing the ultimate power," For a moment, Shadow was lost in the beauty of the green Chaos Emerald. How could something so small be so beautiful yet powerful? In a sense, the Chaos Emerald reminded him of someone he knew.

"You rat! What do you think you are doing with my Chaos Emerald?"

Although Shadow didn't recognize the voice, he wasn't scared of it much less intimidated by it. There was complete silence between them. The only thing surrounding them was the metal room in which Shadow had stolen the Chaos Emerald. Slowly, he turned around coming face to face with the so-called Dr. Eggman.

"My name is Shadow, I am one of Gerald Robotnik's greatest creation ... The Ultimate Life Form." Shadow said. "It's an honor to finally meet you, Doctor."

Although Dr. Eggman was surprised that this black hedgehog knew his grandfather's name, thanks to his great thinking abilities he was putting all the pieces together.

"You are the military's top-secret weapon! The one that the military shut down the research because they feared it!" Eggman said on top of his robot. Shadow had to admit the whole scene was comical even. He could tell why Amy called him Eggman but if the black hedgehog wanted the human to do as he pleases, it was better to not say that nickname.

"A few days ago I found my grandfather's old research files and dairy. He wrote about the greatest weapon he has ever created ... Project Shadow," Eggman was still keeping his distance, not knowing how dangerous could this hedgehog be. "I was looking for you in Prison Island, just to find that you were no longer there ... How did you even escape?"

That was something that Shadow didn't dare to say. He didn't want to involve Amy in any way into his devilish plans. He decided to ignore his question and instead focused on the information that was given to him.

"Because you are the grandchild of my creator, I'll grant you one wish," Shadow said. "Bring more Chaos Emeralds."

"Shadow wait!"

"I'll be waiting for you in the central control room on the space colony, ARK."

Shadow was enjoying this too much. The police, soldiers, agents, everyone was after him. Although he could easily use Chaos Control, a part of him wanted himself to be known to the world. Shadow wanted this planet to know that he was here, that they should start to feel despair, pain, and suffering just like he felt it. Just like he was feeling it.

Destroying the Federal Reserve Bank brought him a certain pleasure, was this what revenge felt like? If he was being completely honest, it was quite lovely.

Standing proud of at the tallest bridge of Capital City, Shadow the Hedgehog looked down on the humans. So small, so weak and pathetic and they still managed to outsmart the ultimate life form 50 years ago in the ARK.

The sounds of police sirens and helicopters around him made Shadow smile, did they really think their machines are good enough to stop him?

"Hmf ... How pathetic ..." The words left his mouth but as soon as they did, he remembered what had happened on the ARK. Yes, he was the Ultimate Life Form. However, he shouldn't let that fact make him underestimate the humans. They were more deadly than they looked.

"Find them before they escape!"

Shadow did everything he could so Maria's small hand didn't slip away from his. Her breathing was becoming more agitated, and Shadow feared that her weak lungs would explode at any moment.

Gunshots were heard and without noticing Maria had been shot right in front of him. Everything happened so fast that Shadow didn't know how to react, what to do. He had been trained to be many things, a weapon, a cure ... but Shadow had never learned how to be a savior ... A hero.

"Maria!"

In the next moment, he was trapped. A crystal capsule surrounded him and Shadow was again lost. He couldn't do anything. The black hedgehog only stood there, watching his only family bleeding to death. Maria sacrificed herself to save him, to put him to safety. Shadow was supposed to be the one to save her. After all, he was her hope all along for a happy and normal life on Earth.

"Shadow, I beg of you ... Please do it for me."

"Maria!"

"For all the people ... on that planet ..."

No matter how much Shadow screamed her name, she wouldn't listen. The Ultimate Life Form was reduced to helplessness. To nothing, he just wanted this nightmare to end. For Chaos, for everything sacred in this universe ... He swore to never sleep again if that meant he will never have this nightmare.

"Sayonara ... Shadow the Hedgehog."

He couldn't do anything back then. But now, Shadow was going to do anything in his power to get revenge. Nothing else crossed his mind, although the memory of the pink hedgehog wanted to make its way trough. He suppressed the thought, knowing that if he let his mind go to Amy the sudden rage of destroying everything will disappear. The black hedgehog didn't need that right now, all he needed at the moment, was anger, rage, and determination.

Starting right this moment, he didn't care about anyone or anything. He will seek destruction, he will full fill his promise. Shadow will make everyone feel the pain, the suffering, the no-ending nightmare that was his life.

Just how dare they? How dare these humans walk away as if nothing happened? Like they just didn't destroy his whole universe? His purpose to live?

These were the same thoughts he was having early this morning until a sweet voice interrupted him.

Amy made him have second thoughts and doubts about destroying the world.

But she wasn't here now to remind him of that.

"Maria, I still remember what I promised you, for the people of this planet ... I promise you ... Revenge!"

The dark hedgehog had already finished defeating the guars of the military that was after him. It didn't take him long and his satisfaction was short-lived, therefore he decided to go downtown where he could cause a little more of despair within the population. He looked around the city, sightly enjoying the lights and how perfectly they illuminated the city.

Suddenly, something caught his attention. It wasn't the tall buildings, nor restaurants nor how there were no people at the moment.

It was a blue hedgehog, who was fighting a G.U.N robot. It was pretty big and Shadow would have liked to take down that robot as well but seeing that the blue hedgehog was almost done with, he decided to not interfere. Shadow had to admit that the blue hedgehog had good skills for the regular Mobian. Watching from the rooftop of a close-by building, Shadow thought that maybe this could turn out to be an interesting fight.

The black hedgehog landed on top of G.U.N's robot as he threw the Chaos Emerald up and down, playing with it to get the blue hedgehog's attention.

"Now, I know what's going on!" the blue hedgehog said as he approached Shadow, looking directly up at him. "The military has mistaken me for the likes of you!"

Shadow reminds quiet, it was amusing to see that the blue one had the guts to face him. The black hedgehog wanted a fight but he didn't think it was going to be that easy.

"So, where do you think you're going with that Emerald?!" The blue hedgehog raised his voice, tired that Shadow wasn't saying a word. He began to run this time. "Say something! You fake hedgehog!"

"Well, let's play."

Throwing up the Chaos Emerald and then catching it, Shadow only said two words.

"Chaos Control!"

Greenlight eradiated from the Chaos Emerald and Shadow felt his whole body go through an energy shock. It was a sensation that was long forgotten but it wasn't uncomfortable. In the next moment, there he was up close to the blue hedgehog.

For a moment, everything went in slow motion. Blue met black as they crossed next to each other, Shadow finally took a good look on Sonic's features. He was just a regular blue hedgehog, but his green eyes remind him of someone.

Amy's emerald eyes.

"Damn it, I forgot! I promised her I was going to be back!"

Shadow mentally face palmed himself, he felt so stupid for letting his uncontrolled emotions take over him so easily.

"And tragically, I didn't make it for dinner either."

Shadow decided to teleport back to the top of the building where he could see again the blue hedgehog. Why did he even think this was a good idea? He was just wasting time.

"Wow ... he's fast!" The blue one said. "But wait ... Its not speed! He must be using the Chaos Emerald to warp!"

Oh, well at least the blue one offered him some type of entertainment. The least he could do was to introduce himself before he goes off to Amy's apartment.

"My name is Shadow, I'm the world's ultimate life form." The black hedgehog was once again playing with the green Chaos Emerald, mocking the inability of the blue hedgehog. "There's no time for games ... Farewell."

Shadow used the Chaos Emerald to create a great amount of energy, it was so bright that it blinded Sonic for the moment.

"Shadow ... What is he?"

And then he was gone.

"I better investigate this ... Just after months of not seeing Amy and Tails ... I come back to the city to see them and this happens-"

"Don't move! Stay where you are! Keep your hands up in the air!"

Sonic's thoughts were interrupted as in few seconds, the blue blur was surrounded by G.U.N's trucks, soldiers, and helicopters.

"Huh? Not again!"

Like a teenager coming back from a party that he wasn't supposed to go, Shadow entered Amy's apartment through the living room's window.

He tried to be quiet but of course the pink hedgehog was waiting for him. Amy was wearing her pink pajamas, messy hair, and tired eyes. She was sitting on the couch, in front of a small table. On top of it, a plate of food was wrapped with plastic paper, Shadow could tell the food was long cold.

But his heart wasn't.

Far from it, actually.

"My apologies, were you waiting for me?"

Shadow was finally inside the apartment, his voice was soft. For a small moment, he looked over to the lamp that lightly illuminated the room, giving him enough light to see Amy. "Have you eaten?"

"Yes."

Growl

As if destiny wanted to prove Amy wrong, her stomach let out a loud growl, showing that she hasn't eaten anything since she last saw Shadow.

"I wanted to eat with you," Amy defended herself. A bit shy and embarrassed that Shadow watched her being this vulnerable. "How did it go? Did you defeat Eggman?"

Shadow nodded, he watched Amy stand up from the couch. The pink lady slowly walked towards him where she could see him better thanks to the moonlight coming from outside the window. Shadow's vermillion eyes glowed even brighter. The first time Amy saw his eyes, they were a bit terrifying. But now, she found a strange sense of comfort within them. Red pools that wanted to say so much, but couldn't.

"Did you get the Chaos Emerald?"

"Yes,"

"Are you going home now?"

"...Yes."

Amy's heart shrunk a little when he accepted it. They had been together for a couple of days but they had built a special bond. She knew this won't be the last time she would see him ... So, why does she feels like this?

"I need to go home but I'll come back to you when the time is right."

Even for Shadow, it was hard to say those words. But why? His heart stopped beating as he watched Amy's face change.

It was as if she knew everything, about his past. About his plan to destroy the Earth, about his dark thoughts.

But her face showed such calmness, such softness ... It wasn't pitying, it was compassion.

She was giving him comfort, without Amy knowing it.

"I'll be here whenever you need me,"

This time, Amy smiled. She knew that Shadow needed to follow his journey and to discover himself on his own. However, if there was any way she could help, then she would make it clear that she would be here for him. No matter what.

"Would you ... Would you really be here?"

Amy couldn't tell all too well, but she knew that his voice had cracked. His voice was filled with such grief that Amy herself felt like crying. That insecurity was showing up again in Shadow and this time it was breaking him. His voice was a quiet plead. He was like a sinner seeking forgiveness, like a vagabond seeking a home.

"Yes, I'll be here ... I promise."

The rosette hedgehog was something or rather say someone who Shadow has been looking for since the day Maria died. Something that he thought he lost forever. He had only known the pink hedgehog for a couple of days but she had shown him so much. She offered him such unconditional sentiment and comfort that made his heart feel at peace.

But was that enough to forget a promise?

No.

"When I come back, I'll help you find your friend. How does this individual look like?"

"No need. Honestly, he must be traveling somewhere. I have my ways of finding him, so don't worry about that," the pink lady was getting closer to Shadow but now he didn't mind the closeness of it at all. "Besides, something tells me that you have more important things to do that to help me find Sonic."

The black hedgehog still wonders who was this person who seemed to be so important to the pink one. Why would anyone want to be away from her? When all that Shadow wanted to do was to be close to her?

"I'll come back soon enough, don't get in any trouble alright?" Shadow took one last good look at Amy, fully appreciating her soft features. Nonetheless, his eyes landed on hers. How come he didn't notice earlier? Amy's green emerald eyes were even more beautiful than the Chaos Emerald he was hiding.

"No promises!" Amy said playfully as Shadow walked towards the window, ready to disappear into the distance.

Although his heart was begging him to not leave, he knew that this was for the better. He needed to figure out things by himself and hopefully, he could get rid of the strange feeling that was starting to make its way into his heart.

"I'll come back," Shadow said. What the black hedgehog didn't know was that he would see Amy soon enough, in a circumstance he wished Amy wouldn't see him in.

"I know," Amy gives him a reassuring smile, one that made his heart and soul feel ... tranquil.

"You promised me."

A/N: The hardest part of this chapter was the ending. It took me a very long time to figure out how this conversation. Shadow, a lost, suffering soul ... and Amy, an idealist who sees the best in everyone. I guess I really wanted to show Shadow's mains traits in this chapter. His determination, insecurity, and caring side. No matter how much he tries to not let 'superficial' feelings get to him, he always ends up caring for others. He does not want to destroy the planet earth, but he is still going to do it because he 'promised' it to Maria. I wanted to show Shadow's inner conflict and how much that affects him. He is going to have his lows on this story but you all know how it's gonna end. I am really trying to stay 'in character' for these two. This won't be your super 'mushy lovey-dovey fanfiction story.' This story is going to be more like 'the reasons why Shadow and Amy have such great potential as a couple, romantic and non-romantic'. I want to highlight both characters' traits, weaknesses, and strengths as I give a new approach to this iconic story.

Also, I just realized that Sonic never introduces himself to Shadow but after they are at the ARK racing each other. So, if I can I'll have Shadow at the end be like 'Oh, so you are the hedgehog Amy is looking for!"

On the side note, I am already preparing for the big ANGST moment. Well, two main angst moments, I am sure you can figure the two moments out. I honestly can't wait for all of you to read it.

I want this story to be around 10 chapters long. But, it may be more or less. It all really depends on how much I can make out of the SA2 story. I'll be pulling out things from the hero and dark stories to finish this.

Anyways, that's all I have to say for now. I think, lol.

See you next time on Prison Island!

#shadamy #shadamy fanfiction #shadamyau #shadamy fanf #shadow and amy #shadamy comic #shadow x amy #shadowxamy #shadowandamy #amy rose #sonic fanfic #sonic fanfiction #sa2

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imaginaryelle · 4 years

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Thanks to @morphia-writes for beta help, and to @miyuki4s for all the brainstorming help that went into this chapter!

An excerpt:

There are some things Lan Wangji cannot doubt: Wei Ying’s love for his sister, and her children. His affection for Jiang Wanyin, and the Wens. His dedication to ensuring that Lan Wangji himself does not succumb to the curse he carries.

Every evening, he creates a fresh talisman to replaces the one on Lan Wangji’s arm. He brews one of three different medicinal teas from Wen Qing, in sequence, and serves it, sometimes drinking a portion or two himself. He invites Lan Wangji to play Rest as a duet for the suppressed, resentful souls they carry, and then other, less spiritually charged music, and asks after his core, after their evening meditations.

Every morning, Lan Wangji takes longer than he needs to to comb his hair, and tie it up, and dress. Wei Ying looks younger in the diffused dawnlight inside the tent. Softer, sprawled carelessly under blankets with his sleep robe twisted out of place to reveal the hollow of his elbow and the line of his collar bones.

It’s an indulgence Lan Wangji shouldn’t permit himself. A few moments, watching Wei Ying breathe and concentrating on the steady warmth of the soulbond under his own skin.

Read on tumblr under the cut!

It takes more than one day for a sect leader to prepare for the sort of journey they’re planning. Not because of the journey itself, Wei Ying is quick to point out, but because of all the things he has to make sure are done beforehand.

“Wen Qing is locking me in my study today,” he says over breakfast on the first day, “but Sizhui, Xiuying and Weixin are meeting with a tailor for new clothes and you should go.”

As he has been wearing borrowed or stolen clothes for several days now, Lan Wangji cannot bring himself to protest. He has no desire to wear extra infirmary underlayers while traveling, and the plain black outer layer Wen Qionglin had brought to his door was clearly intended to fit as many people as possible. Commissioning something new, or at least something altered to fit properly, is only reasonable.

Wei Ying insists that he’s already paid for the service, which Lan Wangji can only thank him for; he has no funds of his own, or reputation to call on.

“Get something you like,” Wei Ying tells him, even as Wen Qing looms over his shoulder. “Anything you want is fine.”

Lan Wangji assumes this event will take place within Yiling-Wei’s walls, as was generally the case in Cloud Recesses, but instead he finds himself following Wen Sizhui, Zhou Xiuying and Liu Weixin through a town that looks much more prosperous than the Yiling he visited thirteen years ago, and is almost certainly louder and more crowded than he remembers.

That impression may be influenced by his company. Certainly he had felt there were entirely too many people in the street when he was surrounded by onlookers with a toddler clutching at his leg, but if anything their small group draws even more attention now.

Everyone seems to know Wen Sizhui. There are street hawkers and shop owners who greet him by name, and press freshly steamed baozi and sticks of hawthorn candy into his hands, and it is clear from their comments that the townspeople of Yiling are close to their Sect in a way that is certainly not true of Cloud Recesses and Caiyi, or Jinlingtai and Lanling. One merchant is so insistent on thanking them for some past service that all four of them end up holding packages of lotus root, despite the fact that Lan Wangji can have had nothing to do with solving the woman’s problems.

The pattern continues inside the tailor’s shop—the young Wei cultivators are being fitted with new black outer yi and trousers designed to the Jiang Clan’s specifications for the upcoming archery tournament, but they are all clearly well-known to the staff. And Lan Wangji has come with the Sect Leader’s express instructions. And also the offer of his purse.

“Wei-zongzhu said you might prefer these,” one of the tailor’s assistants says, his hands full of fine-woven cream and blue fabrics, “but we do have other colors, of course.”

None of the fabrics on display are the shining, pure white of Gusu-Lan, but there is sun-bleached silk and cloud-white cotton and pale wool woven thinner than paper. It doesn’t seem to matter what he says, or how he responds: he is fussed over, and measured, and prodded. Silk and wool and brocade are draped over his shoulders and held up to his face for comparisons of shade and texture, and he leaves the shop—it is much later in the afternoon than he expected—with the black robe he arrived in newly altered and a sash of summerweight wool dyed the blue of a pale spring morning tied around his waist. Travel clothes, he is assured, will be delivered in the next few days.

He could not bring himself to commission a forehead ribbon, in any color; he is already quite certain these new robes will exceed any budget or social standing Liang Feihong could expect to claim. Wei Ying seems unconcerned.

“It’s a gift,” he insists after dinner. “Besides, you’re still a cultivator, and you’re traveling with a sect leader. It’d be weird if you looked like a fisherman.”

Lan Wangji is certain there are several measures of difference between the dress of a fisherman, a rogue cultivator, and the fabrics that were held before his face today.

“Look at this map with me,” Wei Ying says, the topic apparently closed. “I’m trying to figure out which roads are least likely to be blocked by mudslides. Wen Qing says if I get on a boat during the spring rains she’ll kill me now to save herself the trouble of burying me later.”

Lan Wangji may not have any formal responsibilities at Yiling-Wei, but Wen Qing makes it clear that she expects marked improvement in his spiritual power before he leaves her area of influence. He is given a list of meditation exercises and a schedule of daily training sessions for sword and unarmed work with her apprentices on hand to monitor his condition.

This is not a hardship. He had already planned to dedicate most of his time to this task, and the Wei cultivators have a unique style—not quite Yunmeng-Jiang, but not Qishan-Wen either. Wei Ying, of course, is the most practiced in it, and his version does not even involve a sword; Suibian is distinctly absent from their training sessions, but this does not seem to affect Wei Ying’s efficacy. Twice Lan Wangji is not fast enough to avoid the touch of a talisman to his shoulder, or his core.

He takes no actual damage from them—Wei Ying is careful in his craft, and these were written specifically for this purpose, but the failure drives him to train harder, even against other sparring opponents, until whatever apprentice is observing him steps in and orders a rest.

He spends this enforced downtime reading theory texts from Wen Qing’s library or at his guqin, picking out simple practice scores and more complex Lan melodies in the hope of re-training both his fingers and his core in the delicate language required for performing Inquiry. He works outside, in the scattered gardens, whenever the weather allows. A few hours spent alone in his shuttered room during a sudden storm proves detrimental to his focus, no matter how many handstands he does, or what other meditation techniques he tries. It is better to be out in the open air, where he can breathe more easily.

“Lan Zhan!” On the afternoon of the third day Wei Ying leans around the mulberry tree on the other side of a plot dedicated largely to cooking herbs. He looks around as if he thinks they’re being watched, and then all but runs over to crouch next to Lan Wangji. “I want to show you something,” he whispers. He tugs on Lan Wangji’s sleeve. “Come on, quick!”

“Something” turns out to be the paddock, where a 2-day-old foal is taking in the outside world for the first time under his mother’s watchful eyes. Wei Ying drapes himself over the fence and watches them both with a rapt expression Lan Wangji has never seen him wear before. Zhou Xiuying is also in attendance, alongside her wife—Feng Xinyi—who he learns is the one of the Wei Sect’s grooms.

“Xiaoying and Heitu are just one pasture over, if you wanted to meet them,” she says, which is how Lan Wangji learns that Wei Ying intends to travel by mule.

“Do you know how hard it is to feed a horse?” he says as they walk through tall grass flushed green with the rains. “Have you ever tried to train a horse for night hunting? In a Yunmeng summer? The heat is terrible for them. I think the only reason Jiang Cheng still has horses is his grandmother sent a whole caravan of grooms and breeding stock from Meishan when the war ended.” He produces two apples from his sleeve and holds one out to the nearest mule and the other to Lan Wangji. “Mules are better,” he says, his tone flippant as he pets Xiaoying’s long nose. “And almost as impressive.”

Xiaoying and Heitu are undeniably beautiful animals; good conformation, clearly healthy, and their dark bay coats shine red in the sunlight. And Lan Wangji knows that he will not be able to travel by sword for some time yet. Not alone. He cannot expect Wei Ying to transport them both, and walking will be too slow. Riding makes sense.

“Little Shadow?” he asks, of Wei Ying’s mount. “And … Black Rabbit?” They are hardly the sorts of names he is accustomed to hearing for a cultivator’s steed. There is little sense of speed, or power, or even luck in these names. Wei Ying shrugs.

“Xiaoying used to lie in the grass and pretend to be dead. Sizhui tripped over her all the time, and then she’d follow him for hours. And Heitu likes to jump, she hopped all over the place as a filly--ah! Lan Zhan!” He grins, gleeful, mischief in his face. “Do you remember the rabbits I gave you, all those years ago? And now I can give you another one! A bigger one!” Wei Ying laughs, just as he had laughed in Cloud Recesses, depositing two rabbits on the floor of the library, some sort of gift and joke and torment all in one, Lan Wangji had been sure.

Lan Wangji hadn’t known what to do then, with the boy who refused to leave him alone, who insisted on teasing him at every opportunity. Now, he stares at Wei Ying’s hands, at long sleeves pulled back to reveal his wrists, at his lips, and he knows what he wants to do.

He steps closer to Heitu, offers her his hands in a bowl instead of reaching out beyond her.

“I remember,” he says. It’s possible that his brother allowed his pets to stay, after his death.

Unlikely. But possible.

Heitu snuffles at his hands, all warm breath and soft nose in a way that is, in some small semblance, reminiscent of the soft warmth of his rabbits. She bears nothing like their fragility, but she takes the apple he offers delicately, and he keeps his fingers well clear of her teeth. Wei Ying strokes Xiaoying’s face and talks sweetly at her until she takes his sleeve in her mouth, at which point he switches over to annoyed admonishments. Lan Wangji has just stepped nearer to help him when Wen Qionglin appears at Wei Ying’s shoulder.

“Qing-jie wants to know if you finished that letter to Ouyang-zongzhu yet,” he says.

Wei Ying jerks, and there’s a sound of tearing cloth. He sighs.

“Feng-shimei told you to stop keeping food in your sleeves,” Wen Qionglin notes, even as he distracts Xiaoying with a hand on her neck. She drops Wei Ying’s sleeve and nudges her nose into Wen Qionglin’s chest. Both animals seem accustomed to his presence.

“I took it out as soon as we got here,” Wei Ying grumbles. “I wouldn’t have torn anything if I wasn’t surprised.” He sticks his fingers through the tear in his sleeve and wiggles them. The look on his face can only be described as a pout.

“I can fix it for you—” Wen Qionglin actually looks worried. Wei Ying just sighs and flaps his sleeve.

“I’ll fix it,” he says. “Why should you fix it? It’s fine.” He frowns at Xiaoying for a moment, then leans into Lan Wangji’s shoulder.

“I really can’t recommend becoming a sect leader,” he says, low-voiced, as if this will affect Wen Qionglin’s hearing. “The number of letters you have to respond to is too much work. I don’t think Ouyang-zongzhu even reads them, he just sends some new complaint every few weeks, as if I can control the weather, or the river, or how sleepy his cultivators get when they’re on tower duty.”

Lan Wangji has never heard his brother or his uncle make similar complaints, but they are Lans; they would not say such a thing even if it were true.

“Did you not choose the position?” he asks.

Wei Ying’s face scrunches up with displeasure. He shakes his head, though whether it is denial or dismissal is impossible to determine.

“I better get back to it,” he says instead of answering the question. “Before Wen Qing tells the kitchens to put radish in my food again.”

He sighs, and waves aside Lan Wangji’s bow. “I’ll see you both at dinner,” he says, and Wen Qionglin nods. Lan Wangji watches Wei Ying walk back up the hill towards the main compound until Heitu seems to take offense to his distraction and knocks her head against his shoulder, huffing at him.

“Does Liang-gongzi know how to ride?” Wen Qionglin asks. It’s a fair question: Lan Wangji does not actually know if Liang Feihong was trained in riding. He prevaricates. What is true for him is just as likely to be true for Liang Feihong as not.

“It has been a long time.”

“Would you like to practice?” Wen Qionglin asks, and Lan Wangji agrees without hesitation. Practice, and especially practice in caring for his mount without servants to help, can only improve the upcoming journey.

Wen Qionglin shows him to the tack room, and he manages to brush and saddle Heitu with a minimum of fuss. The main difference between outfitting a horse and a mule, he finds, is that Heitu’s tack includes two belly cinches, there is an extra strap that goes under her tail to stop the saddle moving too far forward, and he has to be especially gentle with her long ears while placing the bridle. Xiaoying is the more mischievous of the pair, Wen Qionglin tells him, and has to be watched carefully so she doesn’t puff out her stomach and make the cinches too loose.

Riding is initially awkward, but after a few slow circuits of the paddock he finds his seat and is able to push Heitu faster without losing his balance too badly. She takes direction well, has a steady, comfortable gait, and doesn’t startle as easily as some horses he’s ridden. He will almost certainly be sore later, especially without a dependable supply of spiritual power to speed healing, but the wind in his face and the simple pleasures of riding are more than worth that discomfort. He turns back toward the stables when they have both worked up a light sweat and sees Feng Xinyi speaking with Wen Qionglin. She smiles as he approaches, but doesn’t stay.

“I should get back to the little one,” she says. “But I’m glad to know Heitu will have a rider who knows what he’s doing.”

Wen Qionglin leads Heitu to a water trough and pets her cheek until Feng Xinyi is out of earshot.

“Wei-zongzhu trusts you,” he says. As if this is a fact.

Lan Wangji stares back at him. Wen Qionglin does not breathe, and he does not blink. He stands perfectly, unnaturally still, and waits. Apparently some response is required.

He settles on, “I trust him, also.”

Wen Qionglin watches him for a moment longer, and then nods. Then he says, “If he truly needs help, I will know. No matter where he is. And I am very fast.”

Oh.

This is probably intended as a threat.

Lan Wangji slides off Heitu’s back, so that they are eye to eye.

“I mean him no harm,” he says. In his current state of spiritual power it’s almost reassuring to know that someone else is concerned for Wei Ying's welfare. It should not be at all surprising, but he finds he is often surprised by Wen Qionglin, who has continued to move and talk and physically reside with his family for over a decade when everything Lan Wangji has been taught says he should not even exist.

Those same teachings would object to his own new existence as well; they are, both of them, supposed to be long dead.

“I will not let him come to harm,” he says, “if I can help it.”

He worries for a moment that this will be too revealing, but Wen Qionglin does not question him further. Perhaps he doesn’t need to. They are both well aware of the loyalty Wei Ying can inspire, under the right circumstances.

“I will show you where to find the saddle bags and travel rations,” Wen Qionglin decides, and he doesn’t speak of anything but Xiaoying and Heitu’s care and habits for the rest of the afternoon.

The evening before their planned departure, Wen Qing summons Lan Wangji once more to her study. Wei Ying arrives partway through her examination of his meridians and, surprisingly, sits quietly beside her desk until she’s finished. When she nods he joins them both behind the privacy screen and produces two cloth-wrapped packages—in one, two coiled lengths of red silk string, and in the other a pale jade carving of an endless panchang knot.

“Our hope is to give your spiritual power a new path through your meridians,” Wen Qing tells him as she inspects the strings. “One that minimizes the curse’s influence.” She blocks the meridians at his shoulder with her needles, and then ties one string to his arm, above the curse mark, and the other below it, each secured with a cloverleaf knot and sealed with a touch of spiritual power.

Wei Ying leans in close and presses two fingers to the talisman over the curse mark, but doesn’t touch either the silk or the jade. He keeps his silence. Lan Wangji watches his face and cannot read his thoughts.

“Just making sure this doesn’t interrupt us,” he says when he sees Lan Wangji watching. He holds up a second talisman in his other hand. “Wouldn’t want to have to start over in the middle.”

It’s a reasonable precaution: Tying the new charm is a long process, a progression of knots that covers most of his forearm. The jade panchang knot is tied in just above the curse mark, and another panchang knot of red silk tied below the wound. Wen Qing and Wei Ying both study it closely, and then she removes her needles and takes his wrist again, walking him through a slow meditation, cycling spiritual power through his body.

The flow of power is smoother, though it does perhaps take a little more time than he expects.

Wei Ying removes his fingers with a nod and a sigh. Wen Qing smiles, satisfied.

“The talisman will still need to be reapplied regularly,” she says, “but these charms together should be enough to minimize the curse’s effect on your meridians, so your core can begin to heal.”

It has already begun. He can feel the difference.

“Thank you.” The words seem inadequate, but he has little else to offer. Even this, she waves aside.

“I’m sure you don’t need my guidance for the proper exercises, but I do have many more theory texts, if you wish to read them.”

“We can bring some along,” Wei Ying promises. “Most of the best ones, we have more than one copy.”

Lan Wangji thinks of the library—of the many books that bear the same hand. Some copied by Wen Qing. Some by Wei Ying. Others in a clear, steady hand he doesn’t recognize. Of the single bound copy of the Lan Clan rules he’d found next to a copy of the Wen principles, and the books that he doubts his brother knows exist, copies of texts that were available to guest disciples studying at Cloud Recesses.

He wonders if his brother knew, when he was rebuilding the Library Pavilion, just how exact Wei Ying’s memory can be.

“Thank you,” he says again.

“Get some sleep,” Wen Qing says. “Both of you.” She stares hard at Wei Ying. “I’m not going to be the one dragging you out of your rooms in the morning. It’s no matter to me if you miss traveling during the coolest part of the day.”

Traveling with Wei Ying, and only with Wei Ying, is different from traveling alone, or with other Lan disciples, and different again from his memories of travel during the Sunshot Campaign. Then, Wei Ying had shifted through moods like ripples in water, sometimes predictable but more often not. A laugh like a clash of swords, a glare that pierced like needles. More than once Lan Wangji had found him alone but for the poor company the dead might provide, brooding under a shadow that seemed to cling to him even on the clearest of days. And then he would turn and ask if Lan Wangji knew this or that song, or if he wanted to spar, or if he’d eaten because surely it must be time for the next meal by now, and Lan Wangji would push aside his concern until hours later, when Wei Ying was just as likely to pull a prank as get in a fight with an ally. A fight with Lan Wangji himself, more often than not.

But that was the war. Decades ago, now, for everyone but Lan Wangji himself.

Now, Wei Ying laughs with more humor, and the cant of his eyes is merely sly rather than cutting. He grumbles through his breakfast and morning tea. He bickers with Xiaoying while saddling her and slouches through the morning hours until some unknown precondition is met, and then he begins talking aloud about whatever is on his mind at the moment: the weather, which continues to be wet, with cool mornings and steamy afternoons, or theories on their two investigations, or tales of past night hunts, which quickly shift into stories of Wen Sizhui, or Jiang Wanyin and Jin Rulan, and from there to the other members of Yiling-Wei, and Yunmeng-Jiang, and Lanling-Jin. Once, when they stop and take shelter under a half-repaired watchtower to wait out a storm, Wei Ying says, “Ah, Lan Zhan, do you remember that week we had rain every day, in Gusu?” and he speaks of Lan Xichen, and the Lan Sect, and what little he knows of its current status.

Cloud Recesses has been rebuilt, reportedly exactly as it was before the Wens attacked. Lan Qiren still teaches, and Lan Wangji feels a swell of relief to know his uncle still breathes. The Sect still hosts a year-long seminar for young disciples of any sect, every few years. Wen Sizhui, Liu Weixin and Zhou Xiuying have attended it, and returned with reports of young Lan cultivators who Wen Sizhui described as friendly, Liu Weixin called unbearably rigid, and Zhou Xiuying pronounced worthy sparring opponents. Lan Xichen has, unsurprisingly, built a widely-spoken reputation for even-mindedness that Lan Wangji knows he himself could never hope to match.

There is no bitterness to any of Wei Ying’s tales. No mention of hardship or enmity, over a span of more than a decade that Lan Wangji knows cannot have been easy, especially near its start. But then, Lan Wangji has long known that Wei Ying lies more easily than he tells the truth, omits more than he ever says openly. Even when he was living among the Mass Graves, quite obviously short on food, the only hardship Wei Ying would admit to was a lack of visitors, and news.

Still, there are some things he cannot doubt: Wei Ying’s love for his sister, and her children. His affection for Jiang Wanyin, and the Wens. His dedication to ensuring that Lan Wangji himself does not succumb to the curse he carries.

It’s an indulgence Lan Wangji shouldn’t permit himself. A few moments, watching Wei Ying breathe and concentrating on the steady warmth of the soulbond under his own skin.

He turns away. Steps outside. Rekindles the fire for breakfast.

During the long afternoon of the fourth day, after they have shared a quick lunch beside a clear-flowing stream and are letting Xiaoying and Heitu forage their own meal, Wei Ying draws out Chenqing and plays songs that seem to be purely for personal entertainment; there is no spiritual power behind them at all. Some, Lan Wangji recognizes as common to drinking houses and inns. Others he doesn’t recognize at all. He is considering unwrapping the guqin when Wei Ying’s somewhat random little melodies turn suddenly familiar.

Not just familiar.

Every note is etched into Lan Wangji’s soul.

Wei Ying catches him staring. He’s not certain what expression his own face is making, but Wei Ying looks suddenly defensive. His hands drop to his lap, wrapping around Chenqing as if Lan Wangji will try to tear the flute away from him.

“What?”

“You remember.” Lan Wangji shouldn’t be surprised—Wei Ying has remembered enough of his brief time at Cloud Recesses to reproduce the Lan Sect’s rules and three different treatises, and that’s only what Lan Wangji found. But it had been only once, in the Xuanwu’s cave. That song has only ever had an audience of one.

Wei Ying frowns at him.

“What ...” his eyebrows rise high on his forehead, his mouth forming a perfect circle. “Lan Zhan.” He leans forward, suddenly eager. “Lan Zhan, you know this song?”

Of course he knows it. How could he not?

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying continues. “No one knows this song. How do you know it? Is it a Lan Clan song? What’s its name?”

Words stick in Lan Wangji’s throat. Wei Ying doesn’t remember. Not really. He looks away. At the play of light on water. The swirl of shadowy fish, underneath.

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying says again, moving closer. “I can never remember where I heard it, and no one ever recognizes it. How do you know it?”

No one ever recognizes it, he says. Which means Wei Ying has been playing it. For other people. For thirteen years. And he doesn’t know.

Lan Wangji swallows back his foolish hopes. The words he might have said.

“I wrote it,” he admits, to the low rush of the spring and the whisper of reeds in the light breeze.

“What?”

When he risks a glance back, Wei Ying is staring. He looks utterly shocked.

“What do you mean, you wrote it?”

Lan Wangji does not want to have this conversation. Not now. Not if Wei Ying doesn’t remember something so important.

At least, it had been important to Lan Wangji.

“We should keep moving,” he says, and stands. Heitu is drinking from the stream, but she only flicks her ears when he touches her shoulder, and doesn’t offer any more protest than a shift of her weight as he unties her hobble and mounts.

“Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying is frowning at him.

“We are wasting daylight,” Lan Wangji tells him. It’s true enough. This break is no shorter than any other.

Wei Ying grumbles. Retrieves his things.

“What’s its name?” he asks as he settles on Xiaoying.

I have already told you. Lan Wangji locks the words behind his teeth. Wei Ying does not speak of the soul bond, never broaches the topic of their battle with the Xuanwu or anything else from their lives that occurred after he left Cloud Recesses months before any other disciple, does not remember this, despite Lan Wangji telling him, despite his clear memory of the music itself and his perfect recall of texts long burnt to ashes.

“Think about it.” He says instead, and urges Heitu into a quicker pace, too fast for easy conversation.

“Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying calls after him, but Lan Wangji does not look back.

When Wei Ying catches up he speaks of other things, and does not mention the song again.

Notes:

For the curious, Xiaoying and Heitu are named as references to famous horses from Romance of the Three Kingdoms. 絶影 (sometimes translated as "Suppressing Shadow" or "Shadow Runner") was one of the horses of Cao Cao, head of the state of Wei. He famously kept running despite taking three arrows, and thus saved his rider from enemies. 赤兔 (Red Hare) was described as "the best of horses" and within the tale people considered him to be too good for his original master. After that master died he was given to a new, more virtuous hero (Guan Yu, sometimes described as an ideal incarnation of loyalty and righteousness), who he was extremely loyal to.

(on to part 11)

#wangxian #mo dao zu shi #lan wangji #wei wuxian #mdzs #mdzs fic #wangxian fic #role reversal soulmate au #turnabout verse #alex writes #the yearning goes on #as ever

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princessplantasaurus · 3 years

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Sponge AU Masterlist (for drabble requests and more!)

Alright so I literally just realized that I’m out here asking people for drabble prompts and vaguely mentioning my AUs but...a lot of newer sponge followers found me after the proshot and therefore weren’t around for these AUs?? So here is a masterlist of my Sponge AUs! I’m currently accepting any and all drabble prompts for any and all of these AUs and I’m also willing to answer questions or give some headcanons about them should anyone be curious! I’m also willing to do AUs of these AUs, such as, say a soulmate AU taking place in one of the AUs listed below, for example. 1. Regular Humanized Musical AU Basically exactly what it says on the tin. Based on the musical, all the characters are/appear human. Wrote quite a bit for this before, can be found here. 2. Regular Humanized Musical AU except Karen’s a robot Same as above, except while everyone else is a human, Karen appears human but is a robot. Sheldon built her originally as an assistant for his (then) new restaurant, and somewhere along the way she developed romantic feelings that she never expected him to return (but obviously, he did). Typically a little more angsty or in the hurt/comfort genre than the regular humanized musical au, often drabbles took place much before the musical, in the early days of Plankton and Karen’s relationship. Wrote quite a few of these, can be found here.

3. College AU Ah yes, the one that started it all. Basically a humanized college AU but this was the main one I wrote for. There was a fic posted on ao3 and also several drabbles. First year student Edward started at college in Bikini Bottom with his high school boyfriend as his roommate. When his roommate cheats on him during frosh week, he eventually works up the nerve to request a move. He ends up rooming with fellow first year students Bobby and Patrick, who were best friends from day one. Bobby works at an on-campus restaurant as fry cook, and eventually gets Edward a job as cashier, replacing Sheldon, the former best friend of their student manager, a fourth year student named Eugene Krabs. Eugene and Sheldon were best friends since elementary school, and went to the same college with the plan of graduating with degrees in business and food science and opening their own restaurant together. When Sheldon stated dating Karen, however, it through a wrench in their friendship. Eugene knocking up his girlfriend and now having to worry about being a father on top of graduating and managing the restaurant has put a lot of stress on him. Meanwhile, Sandy Cheeks, a first year student, just got kicked out of the sorority she only got into since she was the daughter of an alumni. There’s so much more I could say about this AU since this AU is the most “my baby” of all of them but I’ll leave it at this. 3a. Coffee Shop AU An AU of the College AU that featured Bobby as the campus’ resident barista, who deemed himself cafe cupid as he tried to pair up both Sheldon and Karen, and Perch and Edward. Wrote a small handful of things that can be found here. 4. Battle of the Bands AU Team of Tres, 3 twenty something best friends (Bobby, Patrick and Sandy) who have been playing as a pop rock band for a few years, and are finally entering the Bikini Bottom Battle of the Bands, where the winner gets signed to a major label. They think they have it in the bag, until they realize last year’s runners up, Chum Bucket, who toured with the Electric Skates as their opening act, are back to compete again. Chum Bucket is a duo, fronted by leading man vocalist Sheldon Plankton, who considers himself a bisexual sex god rock star and likes to maintain this image, often bringing fans backstage to make out with them. Doing literally everything else for Chum Bucket is the second member, Karen, who writes, produces, and arranges all their songs, while also live mixing and DJing behind Sheldon during sets. What no one knows is Sheldon and Karen have actually been dating for close to 10 years, something they’ve been keeping secret in order for Sheldon to keep up his ‘image’ with the fan base. Feeling the need to add a little extra edge to the band, Bobby recruits Pearl, the teenage daughter of his day job’s manager, after hearing her sing one day and realizing she’s a better lead vocalist than he’d ever be. Pearl’s dad doesn’t exactly KNOW they’re doing this. And why, pray tell, is Bobby’s next door neighbor always complaining about their music? What could Edward possibly know about music, anyway? (When I was initially going to write this as a fic I kept Edward’s role in this a secret and tbh I still kinda want to unless someone requests a drabble prompt that involves his involvement.) I did write a little bit for this au, all of which can be found here. And now onto the stuff I never got around to writing! 5. Monsters and Aliens AU This one’s gonna be vague as hell because this started as a vague pitch of “Spongebob Universal Monsters AU” that me and my friend Bella kept snowballing in DMs (specifically while I was in the stock room at the place I worked at the time one day, I remember this vividly for some reason??). So basically you got Sheldon who’s a vampire, Sandy who’s a weresquirrel, Squidward as a Phantom of the Opera type, and Patrick who’s a Frankenstien’s Monster type. They are all basically being held in a house arrest type situation, free to live in their little house on the outskirts of town but not wanted by Bikini Bottom as a society since they’ve all wreaked havoc on the town before. Spongebob is town’s local hero kid. Ever since he was young, his upbeat unbreakable positivity and unwavering stick-to-it-iveness have been utilized by the town to stop disaster, including sending him to save them from the monsters multiple times. When a race of alien robots invade and threaten to not just destroy and conquer Bikini Bottom, but the world, the town decides it’s best to send the monsters at them like a little monster army. Spongebob, worried for his monster friends, decides to spearhead this process so that he can help them plan and train. (Karen is also involved in this AU, as one of the alien robots who “defects” to the “good side” because Plankton “sucessfully” “secudes” her, but that’s a whole separate side tangent) 6. Girl Group AU I LITERALLY FORGOT THIS EVEN EXISTED UNTIL I WAS GOING THROUGH OLD DMs AND IT CAME FLOODING BACK TO ME. Sandy, Pearl and Karen started as a group of high school friends posting videos of themselves singing on YouTube who eventually got big enough to be signed to a major label. Sandy is the lead vocalist and doesn’t really want to BE a musician anymore. Singing was fun when it was just a side hobby she did with two of her friends, but she hates the fame and doesn’t want to pursue music as a career. She’d really rather dedicate her life to science, but she doesn’t want to ruin things for Pearl and Karen Pearl is the youngest (was 15 when they started making videos as opposed to Sandy and Karen who were almost 17) and feels like she’s constantly stuck in Sandy’s shadow. Wants to prove to the world (and her dad) that she’s more than just Sandy’s back up singer. Karen writes all the songs and mostly stays out of the spotlight. Has highkey been sleeping with their manager since day one, despite Sheldon claiming he treats all of his clients equally and doesn’t play favorites. (should be noted that Karen and Sandy were 19ish by the time they were signed and Sheldon would’ve been 20 or 21 since I picture him as an intern who got to surpass his mentor by finding and signing ‘the next big thing’ so like...the Sheldon/Karen relationship is at a healthy age difference don’t get that twisted) But yeah those are the AUs!! And I may think of more!! But I’m back in Sponge mode and want to write more drabbles so feel free to send literally anything into my inbox!! It can be just a little idea of your own, and I’ll also be reblogging starter prompts a few times a week if you’d rather send something from one of those! Feel free to specify an AU! Or not and I’ll pick the one I’m feeling! But thank you very much to everyone who read this monstrosity of a post I owe you my life.

#spongebob broadway #spongebob musical #the spongebob musical #spongebob squarepants musical #spongebob the musical #spongebob squarepants the musical

18 notes · View notes

harleykeenerdeservesbetter · 4 years

Note

You still want prompts? What about a little fic of sometime in the future Buck referring to Bobby as his newborn son/daughters grandfather. Cos we all know it will happen. Or like a 5+1 fic of Others referring to them as father and son

@the-wardrobeintocamelot : Buck accidentally calls Bobby “dad.” Bobby walks Buck down the aisle at the Buddie wedding.

Anonymous: prompt request - married buddie having another baby (surrogate or adoption)

@evansdiaz : I just realised that I’m not following you, which shocked me ‘cause I absolutely love your writing!! if it’s okay, could you please maybe write something like when Bobby helped Buck get ready for his date with Abby, but now it’s his wedding day with Eddie that he’s helping him get ready for, please? maybe with a bit of nervous/anxious Buck and Bobby being a supportive, proud Dad?

——————————

Thank you so much! I decided to combine some prompts, hope that’s okay!

This one took longer than most so I hope you like it!

Contains spoilers for 3x09 !!!

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“Buck? You alright?” Bobby asked, eyeing the youngest team member as he pulled on his LAFD jacket over his uniform, attempting to bury himself in the material. Bobby knew there had been something off about him since the beginning of the shift and he wanted to get to the bottom of it. He definitely didn’t miss the slight shadowing underneath his eyes or the slight shake of his hands as he fiddled with the jacket sleeves.

Buck looked up quickly, zipping up his jacket as his eyes met his Captain’s. “Oh yeah, fine,” he assured with a quick nod that had Bobby raising an eyebrow.

“You sure?” Bobby asked, obviously not giving in to his assurances right away because he had known Buck long enough to be able to see right through them. “You can talk to me if there’s something bothering you, you know,” he assured gently, features softening automatically as he spoke.

“I know,” Buck sighed, trying to distract himself by putting his hands in his jacket pockets and looking at the ground, avoiding Bobby’s penetrating gaze.

“Why don’t you come over tomorrow night after our shift? I’ll cook dinner and we’ll get everyone together, kids too, and all just hang out. I think it’ll be good for everyone to let off some steam,” Bobby suggested, keeping his tone light and trying to entice Buck to look up. He smiled softly when he succeeded, Buck’s gaze rising as he smiled.

“Yeah, that sounds nice, I’d love that,” he smiled softly, nodding along with a newfound energy in his form.

“Alright, it’s all set then, I’ll let everyone else know,” Bobby smiled, stepping forward to give Buck a firm clap on the shoulder, squeezing it subtly. “For now though, try and get some sleep before the next call,” he advised gently. “You look tired, kid,” he added in a softer tone, knowing Buck wouldn’t want people to hear, nor would he want to admit it. While Bobby’s tone was soft, it also left no room for argument.

“That’s probably a good idea,” Buck relented with a slight nod of his own, glancing over at the door to the bunks. His gaze drifted to the right and he caught sight of Eddie walking down the stairs with Chimney, both of them stuck in conversation but Eddie’s eyes still met his for a moment.

Unbeknownst to the boys, Bobby’s gaze flickered between both of them, a knowing glint in his eyes as a smirk overtook his face. When he saw Buck’s shoulders sag and his body relax, he contemplated sending Eddie to the bunks to rest too. He decided against it when he realized that Chimney would likely decide to follow and Buck really wouldn’t get any sleep because they would be talking. Not wanting to freak Buck out by letting him know he caught him staring, he lightly laughed to bring his attention back to him. “You’re zoning out Buckaroo, you should really try and get some rest,” he advised again, playing off Buck’s blatant staring for loss of attention. He saw the blush that crept up Buck’s neck and how he nodded a bit bashfully, obviously knowing Bobby had seen him staring and grateful that he didn’t choose to bring it up just then. Bobby knew he would come to him about it in time and he didn’t want to push, especially when Buck looked five seconds away from falling asleep standing.

“Oh, yeah, um, you’re right,” Buck nodded, swallowing the lump in his throat and glancing at Eddie one last time before looking back to Bobby. He smiled softly at the man before nodding in departure, turning on his heel with his hands still in his jacket pockets and walking towards the bunks.

Bobby frowned as he watched him go, his features taut in the way they generally got when he was deep in contemplation. He noted the way Buck’s shoulders slumped and how he walked a bit slower than usual, details that were very out of character for their Buckaroo.

“You know if you think any harder we might need to call 911,” Hen quipped with a light tone, coming up beside Bobby and leaning forward a bit to see his line of sight, letting out a resounding ah when she saw just who he was looking at.

Bobby turned his head to look at her, then back to the bunk area, before landing on her permanently. “I’m just worried about him, Hen,” he sighed, “he doesn’t look like he’s sleeping well.”

“A ladder truck fell on his leg, he suffered a pulmonary embolism, and was in the middle of a tsunami,” Hen listed easily, lowering her tone in sympathy, “I think nightmares might become a prerequisite at that point.”

“I just want him to know he can talk to me,” Bobby sighed, the action using his whole body.

Hen smiled softly at him and nodded faintly in understanding, letting the words hover in the air for a moment before she spoke. “He knows that, Bobby,” she assured. “You’re practically the kids father, of course he knows that,” she said more confidently, resting a hand on his shoulder. “Look, Buck he’s- he’s stubborn when it comes to these things, you know that,” she began gently with a sigh. “He’s always looking out for everyone else but never himself, it’s just how he is, hell, how he’s always been,” she laughed softly before turning serious again. “He might not be ready to talk about things right now, but I can assure you Bobby, he knows,” she said strongly, catching his gaze and holding it to drive her point home. “He’ll come around when he’s ready and it might not be to you or me,” she said, nodding her head to the side slightly and Bobby knew exactly who she was talking about without her having to say it. “What matters though is that he knows that he has all of us, that he has you no matter what,” she finished, giving his shoulder a pat and pulling back with a satisfied smile.

“Thanks Hen,” Bobby said, a smile etching its way onto his own face as he looked at her in gratitude. He nodded to himself resignedly, knowing he could only be there for Buck and had to let him come to him when he was ready.

“Of course,” Hen smiled triumphantly before movement caught her eye and she turned her head to see Eddie look around the station in confusion before making his way towards the bunks. “Like I said, it might not be us that he opens up to first,” she said, a coy and suggestive smile on her lips as she nodded her head slightly in the direction of Eddie’s moving form.

Bobby laughed when he followed her gesture and caught sight of Eddie on the move, nodding to himself because he was right about his earlier suspicions. Suspicions that were honestly at this point less suspicions and more just facts.

“Eddie’s got your boy, Bobby. No need to worry, he’s in good hands,” Hen laughed, her eyes crinkling as she smiled brightly and the two of them were sent into a small fit of laughter.

“Am I missing something?” Chimney asked, hands on his hips as he walked over, confusion lining every inch of his face.

“Nothing much, we were just talking about family night tomorrow,” Bobby smiled, clapping Chimney on the shoulder as he and Hen shared a knowing look, only succeeding in making Chimney even more confused.

“Okay,” Chimney drawled, elongating the word as he looked at the two of them suspiciously. “You two are acting weird,” he said, narrowing his eyes at them as he tried to figure it out. “I’ll get to the bottom of it,” he declared, eyeing them.

“You do that,” Hen laughed, patting his back as she passed him, shaking her head in amusement as she ascended the stairs.

“No seriously, what’d I miss?” Chimney asked incredulously, throwing his hands up.

Bobby held his hands up in surrender, a knowing smile on his lips as he raised a hand to them and pretended to zip them shut. With a laugh, he turned on his heel and followed Hen upstairs in order to start cooking lunch.

Chimney shook his head in disbelief, throwing his arms up and grumbling about something. “Hey Eddie,” he started, turning around to where he left the man but finding both him and Buck gone. “Oh,” he realized, pausing for a moment before his mouth dropped and it dawned on him. “Oh,” he drawled, running up the stairs excitedly exclaiming “That’s what I missed!” as he went.

Bobby knew he didn’t have to worry as much anymore when Buck exited the bunks for lunch, a little bit of bounce returned to his step and a more genuine smile on his face despite his tired appearance, Eddie trailing after him not too far behind with his own fond expression. Bobby smiled when he saw them, offering them food and sharing a knowing look with Hen, rolling his eyes at Chimney’s obvious wink. Hen was right, his boy was taken care of, and he would always still be there no matter what.

Buck paced outside of Bobby’s hospital room anxiously, unable to keep still for even a moment. His boyfriend tried in vain to calm him down but it was proving to be useless. Buck couldn’t stop reliving what happened in that tunnel and how differently things could’ve gone. How Bobby had ordered him out of the tunnel and if he hadn’t, that very well could’ve been him or Eddie in that hospital room, maybe both or all three of them. He felt helpless, like he could’ve done something more, even though Eddie kept assuring him that he did all that he could, that they could. The liquid nitrogen came as fast as it could and Buck was the fastest to get it prepped and go back inside. He knew that, but it didn’t stop him from going crazy over the alternatives.

“Evan,” Eddie said, sighing in exasperation and leaning forward in his chair to tug on his hand and pull him down into the seat beside him. “As soon as the doctor is done, you can go in there, but for now, there’s no sense in wearing down the tile,” he explained gently, knowing how worried he was about Bobby.

“Your dad is going to be fine, Buckaroo,” Chimney said easily without missing a beat, turning to face him since he was walking back and forth a little to stretch his legs. “Bobby’s tough, a little Cobalt 60 isn’t going to be what takes him out, not after all this,” he said, shaking his head and sticking his hands in his pants pockets.

Buck didn’t even bat an eye at the sentiment, whether he even heard it or just chose to ignore it was unclear. He sighed heavily and leaned his forearms on his thighs, wringing his hands together as he stared at the floor. “They just haven’t say anything for a while and the risk of radiation poisoning is there,” he said, his tone low. He didn’t say what he was really thinking, how he could’ve bear to watch Bobby fade away, watch the only man who’d ever been a father to him die and leave him forever. He couldn’t lose him, that wasn’t an option. And yet here they were, that exact fear now a possibility.

“Whatever happens, we’re going to get through it,” Hen said, leaning forward in her chair to set her hand on Buck’s knee. “We’re a team, we get through these things together,” she said assuredly, her voice confident and calm as she patted his knee and leaned back again when he nodded, making eye contact with her.

Before anyone could say anything else however, Athena came back into the waiting room and they all stood up worriedly.

“Is he okay?” Eddie asked, keeping his hand on Buck’s forearm for both of their stability.

“The doctor said so far everything is negative,” Athena said, letting out a shaky breath. When she saw the others grow excited, she held her hand up to stop them in their tracks. “They did find small amount of Cobalt in his urine, but the doctor is convinced that right now it’s nothing to be worried about,” she said gently. “It could go away with some time so they’re going to monitor him weekly. As of now, they say he’s going to be okay,” she finished, setting her hands on her hips. She wasn’t one to show weakness, but it was clear that she was a bit shaken.

Hen made a move to go to her but someone else beat her to it, Buck stepping forward and pulling her in for a gentle hug.

Athena’s brows furrowed slightly in confusion before a soft smile graced her lips and she hugged him back, giving him a light squeeze and closing her eyes, a sigh wracking her whole body.

“He’s gonna be okay,” Buck assured softly, in a tone so low only she would be able to hear it.

“Everything’s going to be okay,” Athena agreed, pulling away. She smiled softly at Buck, an expression that could only be equated to that of a parent to a child. “Now,” she said, now addressing everyone, “let’s go see him.”

The others nodded, breaking out of their stupors after watching that heartwarming sight, following Athena to where Bobby’s room was.

“Come on, let’s go see him,” Eddie said gently, coming up to Buck’s side and resting a hand at the small of his back to guide him. “Told you everything was going to be okay,” he teased assuringly, eliciting a slight giggle from the other man.

“Yeah,” Buck nodded, a small smile gracing his features. “Yeah, you’re right,” he said again, nodding to himself before walking with Eddie to the room, his boyfriend a constant at his side for support.

When they got there, Hen immediately guided Buck into another chair at Bobby’s bed despite him protesting that he didn’t want to take someone else’s spot.

“Just sit down Buck,” Hen said, rolling her eyes and practically forcing him into the seat before stepping back.

“I’m alright kid,” Bobby assured, setting his hand on Buck’s arm. He didn’t look any different unless you knew exactly that had happened, then you knew it was all internal.

Buck didn’t seem to breathe for a moment as he looked at him. That was until he surged forward after a beat and hugged Bobby, being careful about it so he didn’t hurt him.

“I’m not going anywhere kid, I promise,” Bobby promised, holding onto him tightly. He kept him there until Buck was ready to pull away, the two of them parting after a minute and going back to their previous positions.

A blush crept up Buck’s neck and he ducked his head sheepishly, feeling a bit embarrassed about the situation and feeling like he shouldn’t have been as distraught as he was.

“Glad you’re not radioactive,” Chimney said, a bright smile on his face as he changed the subject to something else.

“Definitely,” Bobby said, leaning his head back against the pillow in exasperation without outwardly groaning. “I’m okay guys, you can all go home and get some rest,” he assured, waving them off.

“Not a chance, Cap,” Eddie said with a light laugh, shaking his head as he leaned against the wall behind Buck.

“Well I guess I can’t make you leave, but I hope someone brought some cards,” Bobby smiled, sitting up more.

“Already ahead of you, Cap,” Hen smiled, procuring a deck from her jacket pocket. “I keep them in the car now ever since we started spending way too much time in the hospital,” she explained when she was met with raised eyebrows.

“Fair enough,” Chimney nodded, considering he was one of the first to start the trend of frequent hospital visits. He took the deck from Hen and made his way to the bed, sitting at a corner with Hen doing the same on the other side, Eddie sitting next to Chim and Athena and Buck in chairs on their respective sides.

“There’s no mercy here,” Athena warned, sitting forward in her chair.

“I don’t play to lose,” Buck scoffed, leaning forward as well and shuffling the cards, sifting them and trading them professionally.

“You’re all out of luck, I’m winning today,” Bobby declared, taking one of the laid out stack of cards.

“Talk is cheap, let the best one win,” Hen said, waving all of them off and taking up her own deck.

“The animosity is rising but I’ll have you all know that I’m a champ,” Chimney said smugly, a wide smile on his face.

“And by that you mean a champ at always losing?” Eddie asked with a smirk, his tone teasing.

“Now now, let’s save the trash talking for the big leagues,” Buck said, shaking his head and finally picking up his own stack, leaning back in his chair. “You’re all going down,” he promised, smiling in triumph.

Bobby looked around at his family, smiling at how at ease they were. He knew the day had been a scare for everyone, including himself, and he was grateful that it turned out okay. His eyes drifted to Buck and he smiled softly, his heart warming at the thought of how close they had gotten, evident by how worried Buck had been and how he kept him out of the tunnel for the kid’s own safety. Turning his head, he smiled brightly at his beautiful wife and caught the raised eyebrow she had been giving him, eliciting a laugh from the two of them, the sound mixing with the laughs of the others, filtering through the room. Whatever happened in the future, they would get through it, just as they always did. As a family.

“Hey Bobby?” Eddie asked, catching the man before he could ascend the stairs to the loft. “Could I talk to you for a minute?” he asked, shifting from foot to foot as he clasped his hands in front of him nervously.

“Sure Eddie, let’s go in my office,” Bobby said, nodding his head towards his office on the far right, turning on his heel and leading him there. He could tell Eddie was nervous about something but he wasn’t entirely sure about what that was, so he wanted to give him some privacy regardless. “Have a seat,” he directed, gesturing to the chair before sitting in his own. “What’s up?” he asked when they were both settled.

Eddie focused his gaze on the right side of the room before diverting his attention to Bobby’s name plaque before finding some other random item in the room to look at as he tried to gain his bearings. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to make eye contact with his captain. “I’m planning on asking Buck to marry me,” he said strongly, burying his nerves. Before Bobby could open his mouth and congratulate him or voice any confusion, Eddie continued. “I’ve already asked Maddie but Evan sees you as a father so that’s what I wanted to talk to you about,” he explained, eyes searching Bobby’s face as his expression changed from confusion to realization to pride. “May I have your blessing?“ he asked finally, his voice strong and confident.

Bobby smiled softly, willing his bottom lip to stay straight and not quiver the way it wanted to. He had watched Buck grow, watched Eddie come into the station unsure and find himself a family, watched the two of them find home in each other and fall in love without even realizing it. His heart swelled with pride and he nodded when he realized he left Eddie waiting in anticipation.

“You didn’t need to ask to have my blessing Eddie,” Bobby smiled, “you’re a good man, an even better father, and I know you’ll be an amazing husband and partner to Buck,” he said, nodding to him. He knew he didn’t have to warn Eddie about what would happen if he even hurt Buck since they had had that conversation before. Plus, he was almost certain it was evident in his eyes. By the way Eddie nodded, he knew the message was most definitely received. “I’m proud of you Eddie,” he said sincerely, smiling again.

“Thanks Cap,” Eddie said, lips curved down as he nodded in appreciation. Bobby’s words meant a lot to him and having his blessing helped him feel a lot lighter and more at ease about asking Buck to marry him. Maddie had of course said yes before Eddie even asked the question, engulfing him in a smothering hug as soon as he formally asked her, but Eddie knew he had to ask Bobby too (Maddie also assuring him that it was a great idea). Eddie knew how much Bobby meant to Buck and vice versa, how close they were, how they were family, nearly father and son. He knew it wouldn’t feel right asking Buck to marry him unless he consulted his pseudo father first and today had been a confirmation of those doubts.

“We should probably get out there before the others eat all the food,” Bobby said, knocking Eddie out of his thoughts.

“I don’t know Cap, we might already be too late,” Eddie drawled, looking down at his watch for emphasis as he stood up, both of them laughing and breaking the feigned seriousness.

“Well at least we can grab a roll or two before the bell goes off,” Bobby laughed, walking around the desk and clapping a hand on Eddie’s shoulder, guiding him out of the office and walking back into sight with him.

“You boys better hurry,” Hen called, drawing out the last word in a singsonged tone. “The hungry wait for no one,” she chuckled, taking her place at the table.

Bobby looked to Eddie with his head tilted down slightly, one eyebrow raised as if to say I told you so.

Eddie merely laughed, shaking his head and nudging his arm lightly before ascending the steps in a mild jog, moving to the table and sitting next to his boyfriend with a wide smile and a kiss to the cheek in greeting.

“Come on guys it’s been months,” Chimney whined, complaining about the PDA just for the sake of complaining.

“You kiss my sister, deal with it,” Buck scoffed, the corners of his lips tilting into a smile as he looked over to him, laughing when Chimney nodded and said drawled an exaggerated touché.

“He’s got a point,” Hen snickered, pouring herself some water and sparing a side glance at her partner, meeting Buck’s fist bump from across the table.

Bobby sat himself at the head of the table, a smile on his face as he shook his head at his team’s antics. He glanced at Eddie and caught him joking and laughing with Buck, both of their faces graced with matching dreamy smiles, the epitome of content and love. He couldn’t wait to see what was in store for them next, for all of them.

“Everything’s going to be fine, Buck,” Bobby assured with a soft smile as he set his hand on the anxious man’s shoulder.

“I know I just— I just— wow—” Buck stuttered, his eyes shining brightly as he breathed out in disbelief.

“I know,” Bobby laughed with a nod, remembering that feeling. “But it’s real, today’s finally the day,” he beamed, an unexplainable happiness coming over him.

“I can’t believe I’m getting married,” Buck gushed, his smile widening impossibly so as he almost seemed to radiate excitement.

“Well you are,” Bobby confirmed with another laugh, shaking his head as he pulled his hand away from Buck’s shoulder and reached out to his collar to take the two sides of his tie in his hands. He smoothed out the creases before letting go to move around Buck’s form so he was behind him in the mirror, taking the fabric in his hands again and twisting them gently, looping them and pulling them so they were snug, the fabric now in the shape of a bow that settled neatly on his collar. “There,” he said, drawing his eyes up to watch Buck in the mirror and see his soft expression, his lips tilted upwards as he smiled to himself.

“Thanks Bobby,” Buck beamed, lifting his eyes from the bow to meet his in the mirror before turning around to face the other man he had grown to think of as a father.

“I’m proud of you, Buck. I’m proud of the man you’ve become and how much you’ve grown. You’ve come a long way,” Bobby praised, taking a step back to examine his pseudo-son in his full wedding attire, dark navy blue suit that made his eyes stand out along with black shoes and bow tie.

Buck’s lips turned downwards slightly as he willed them not to quiver before he moved forwards and hugged Bobby tightly, bending his head to press his face to his shoulder. “Thank you, Bobby,” he said softly, the words this time holding even more weight than before.

“Of course kid,” Bobby said, hugging him back just as tightly and giving him a squeeze before they both pulled away with matching smiles. “Now let’s get you married,” he declared, sending both of them into a fit of excited laughter.

And not even half an hour later, they were doing just that.

***

The soft music played through the garden as the ceremony began and everyone turned in their chairs to take a look down the beautiful aisle lined with water lilies and sunflowers.

Since the grooms preferred a smaller and more intimate wedding, they chose to forego the traditional wedding processional. It was because of this that Eddie’s fourteen year old niece began the ceremony as she walked down the aisle and deposited small flower petals along as she went. Shortly behind her was Christopher, in dress pants and dress shirt, striding down the aisle with a bright smile on his face, his aunt shortly behind him holding the small open antique wooden box with the rings.

Finally, Eddie walked wearing a black tuxedo with his mother on his arm, both of them with bright smiles, although Eddie did look a little bit nervous. Once they reached the end, he guided his mother to sit beside his father, pressing a kiss to Christopher’s head as he was seated beside them, before taking his place at the altar, turning his head to anxiously watch for his fiancé.

Eddie didn’t have to wait long because sure enough, Bobby and Buck were the next and last to enter, taking the aisle with confidence like the father-son duo they were. When they parted and Buck took the two steps onto the altar, he smiled brightly at his fiancé across from him and took his hands in his.

Bobby held Athena’s hand in the front row with the rest of their family, Hen and her family, Chimney and Maddie, and all of Eddie’s family all beside one another despite the gap for the aisle. Bobby couldn’t help but look on at the sight of two of their members, their family, marrying the love of their life. He knew the others were thinking the same if the tissues and eye dabbing were anything to go by. As he listened to the vows, Bobby couldn’t help but take a tissue for himself and sniffle just a little bit— only a little if anyone asked— as things started to come to a close. He had meant what he said when he told Buck he was proud of him, and he was proud of Eddie too, both of them more than they would ever know. Bobby let a few happy tears slip when they shared their “I do” before meeting one another in a kiss, but he knew the rest of their large family was doing the exact same. He pressed a kiss to Athena’s head when she leaned it against his shoulder as she watched the sight before her and he smiled wider when he watched Buck and Eddie descend from the altar, Eddie picking Christopher up and settling him on his hip as Buck leaned in to kiss the boy’s temple and ruffle his hair. He couldn’t stop smiling as he watched the two of them walk the aisle again, this time hand-in-hand, with Christopher in Eddie’s arms and giggling. They were walking towards another chapter in their lives and Bobby truly could not have been more proud.

“It’s always hard to watch your son get married,” Athena smiled gently, handing him another tissue as she turned to look at him fully. She wordlessly passed the packet onto Chimney who was unsuccessfully denying the existence of his own tears— before turning her attention back to her husband.

Bobby opened his mouth to say something but he stopped himself as his eyes moved down the aisle and he caught a last glance of the newlywed’s retreating forms. He shut his mouth with a click and smiled a bit sheepishly with a faint blush that had Athena laughing with a shake of her head and the others turning to look at him in amusement.

“Well, it’s party time!” Maddie beamed, standing up from her seat along with most of the wedding party, a certain mischievous and excited bounce in her step as she dragged Chimney along towards the reception.

“So Buck’s like our brother then,” Harry realized with widening eyes before smiling and whispering, “Cool”. He ignored May’s drawled duh along with her eye roll, narrowing his eyes at his older sister and sticking his tongue out at her, which had her laughing and tugging him to her side with a playful arm around his shoulders.

Bobby looked at his step-kids with a certain gleam in his eye and it definitely did not go unnoticed how he didn’t correct them. “I’m ready to dance,” he declared, standing up and with Athena’s hand still in his, leading her up too. His wife gave him a coy smile and together the family made their way to join the rest.

Bobby couldn’t wait to see the newly married couple at their happiest, and he knew that Eddie would take great care of Buck, of his kid.

Contrary to popular belief, Bobby did have days off. And those days off were spent with his wife and step kids, cooking dinner and baking a plethora of desserts with the plan to bring them in to the station the next day. Today was no different, the evening filled with laughter and frosting as Harry and May caked each other in various ingredients and Athena bopped Bobby on the nose with vanilla icing.

Bobby dusted the flour off his hands and wiped the icing from his nose with a laugh when he heard his phone ring on the counter, Hen’s contact filling the screen. He frowned, checking the time and seeing that the others were all still on shift. Something uneasy settled in his stomach as he reached for the phone and answered the call, Hen’s worried and strained voice filtering through automatically, telling them that everyone was at the hospital and that Buck was hurt on call.

“I’ll be right there,” Bobby nodded although she couldn’t see it, his tight voice and panicked tone halting the movements from his family in the kitchen as they turned to look at him in worry and confusion.

“What’s wrong, Bobby?” May asked first, taking a towel and wiping off her face.

“There was an accident on call, Buck got hurt,” Bobby explained, removing his apron and setting it on the counter. “Hen sounded pretty worried on the phone, they want me there—” he was stammering but before he could say anymore Athena cut him off.

“We can handle this mess, you make sure our boy’s okay,” Athena assured before adding, “I’ll have Michael come and watch the kids and I’ll meet you there.”

“Mom, I can watch Harry, we’ll be fine until dad comes, you go too. Dad can bring us later,” May piped up, ushering both of them out of the kitchen. She was eighteen now and could handle watching her brother even if her mother preferred their father come anyway.

Athena seemed to contemplate it for moment before she nodded, “Alright, you two be good, we’ll let you know,” she said, grabbing her jacket and keys and ushering Bobby out of the house.

When they arrived at the hospital, they were greeted by the others. Hen and Chimney were seated shoulder to shoulder on one side and Eddie and Maddie were on the other. The lack of Christopher could only mean that Carla was keeping him home for now and didn’t want him to worry.

“What happened? Is he okay?” Bobby asked immediately when he saw them all, taking in their haggard appearances. He moved to Eddie who was closest to him and rested his hand on his shoulder, giving it a squeeze.

“We were leaving because there might have been a leak but Buck he heard this kid, and we went back. He couldn’t have been any older than Chris,” Eddie explained, tear tracks staining his face as he stared at the floor, barely glancing up. “There was a woman unconscious and I helped her while Buck got him and we got out of the complex but it blew right after and we hit the deck for cover but he, he was behind me so he was closer and he got hit by the force and some debris. The kid was fine thank god but Buck wasn’t waking up,” Eddie choked, rubbing his face aggressively. “I should’ve been watching his back,” he said softly, hands fisting in his pants.

“Look at me Eddie,” Bobby said, shaking his shoulder gently to get him to do so. “You did the best you could,” he assured in a low tone, dragging the words to make sure they sunk in.

Eddie looked up at him with glassy eyes and Bobby couldn’t help but feel his heart break for both Eddie and Buck, all of them really. Logically, Bobby knew he couldn’t have done anything but he wished he was there to help, to at least be there for all of them.

Before anyone could say anything more, a doctor appeared calling out for Evan Diaz and they all stood up as he walked over.

“What’s the prognosis? Is he okay?” Bobby asked first, lowering his hand from Eddie’s shoulder as he looked at the doctor, practically leading the group of worried family members.

“Mr. Diaz suffered a concussion and laceration to his temple, though it’s not too serious and he isn’t showing any signs of bleeding or swelling, a hairline fracture to his left wrist, severe whiplash, four bruised ribs, and a severely bruised hip bone and fibula in his left leg along with major bruising. The force of the explosion was powerful so all in all, I’d say he’s pretty lucky it wasn’t anything more serious,” the doctor explained, listing off the injuries easily since he knew they would be able to follow along with ease. He didn’t miss the worried looks on all of their faces, even if they seemed to relax just a little. His eyes landed on Bobby and he said, “Your son is going to make a full recovery with no problem, he just needs a lot of rest right now.”

Bobby took a deep breath and nodded in understanding. “Thank you doctor,” he said, feeling Athena’s arm link with his and being grateful for the comfort. He didn’t even register that the doctor had assumed he was Buck’s father until after it happened. He wasn’t surprised to realize that it didn’t bother him at all and he didn’t bother correcting him. And if anyone else noticed the sentiment, they didn’t question it.

“Can we see him?” Eddie asked, his voice shaky and he had to clear it to strengthen it.

“Of course, you can follow me right this way,” the doctor nodded, leading the group down the hall. “We have him on a little morphine to take the edge off but we can’t give him too much because of the concussion. Let a nurse know if he wakes up and really can’t handle it, then we’ll try something else,” he said, letting them into the room and nodding when they all thanked him before taking his leave.

The others took their respectful seats scattered around Buck’s room, Eddie sitting on one side with Bobby and Maddie on his other.

Bobby frowned at the excessive bruising all over his body and was displeased to know that even more lied beneath the hospital sheets and gown. He realized that he had unconsciously sat in the seat closer to Buck’s head and immediately felt bad about keeping Eddie further away from his husband. He glanced over at Eddie to make this a point, that he would be ready to switch right away, but Eddie seemed to have read his mind and shook his head, waving him off. Bobby nodded gratefully and turned his attention back to Buck, leaning forward slightly in his chair to rest his hand on Buck’s arm.

They all stayed silent in the room, murmuring softly to one another on occasion and glancing worriedly at Buck whenever they took their eyes off of him for more than a few moments. None of them knew what they were expecting but they all sat upright when suddenly Buck moaned softly in pain and his brows furrowed, his body shifting slightly.

“Hey, hey, you’re okay,” Bobby assured, rubbing his arm soothingly to calm him and make sure he didn’t move further and agitate his injuries.

“Dad?” Buck mumbled, blinking his eyes open dazedly to look at Bobby’s blurred figure, his words catching everyone’s attention. It was clear that he was trying to stay awake but was finding focusing difficult, being weighed down by unconsciousness threading his vision.

“I’ve got you kid,” Bobby soothed, patting his arm. He didn’t know whether Buck was aware of what he said or not but the familial sentiment warmed his heart down to his core. He hated seeing the man he thought of as a son in this state and wanted to reassure and comfort him as best he could. “We’ve got you, just go back to sleep,” he added, glancing at the others in the room and finding them all dawning soft smiles in their direction, particularly Athena and Hen who looked very knowing and Eddie who looked on the verge of tears.

Buck hummed lowly, closing his eyes for a moment before he forced them back open. “Ed?” he called out softly, his fingers twitching on the bed but too weak to move his hand. “Eddie,” he tried again, closing his eyes and whimpering in pain.

“Hey,” Eddie cooed softly, switching with Bobby seamlessly and sliding his hand in his. “Hey, I’m here baby, I’m right here mi amor,” he whispered, leaning forward to speak into his ear and brush his hair back with his free hand. He continued the stream of reassurances, even slipping into Spanish that Buck wouldn’t really understand but would be comforted by.

Bobby easily switched with Eddie when Buck started to panic in pain and he turned his eyes away from the private and intimate moment between them. Taking charge of the situation, Bobby turned to Chimney and Hen. “Why don’t you get changed, maybe check in on Karen and Denny and come on back later?” he suggested. “Athena and I will get everyone some actual food, Eddie and Maddie will stay with Buck, and the kids can come visit later when everything’s settled down,” he proposed, his usual tone calm and no longer tinged with worry like it had been only a few hours before. He wanted the team to be rested and comfortable and he also wanted to give Buck and Eddie some time alone given how distressed Buck currently was.

“You’re right Cap,” Hen agreed, nodding and standing up with a stretch after checking her phone. She smiled softly and sadly at Buck’s pained form before ducking her head motioning for Chimney to come with her. Her best friend nodded and moved to press a kiss to Maddie’s hair before resolving to go home and get them some proper clothes and other items they might need. Together, they gave Buck one last look before they departed the room, knowing they wouldn��t be gone for long.

“I’m going to see what they can do about the pain,” Maddie sighed as she passed Bobby and Athena, sharing a nod with them as they went.

“Come on,” Athena said gently, linking her arm through Bobby’s. “Let’s get some real dinner for everyone,” she said, patting her husband’s arm because she could tell he was still worried about his kid.

Bobby nodded, letting her guide him easily. He took one last glance at Buck, with Eddie leaning over him with hushed murmurs, and knew that his son would be perfectly fine if he left for an hour and came back. With that reassurance in mind, he allowed Athena to pull him away and to the car, the journey much lighter than it had been on the way there.

“Guys, I’d like you all to meet someone very special,” Buck smiled, coming into the room with a small bundle cradled gently in his arms. He could practically feel the excitement radiating in the room as he stepped into it, rocking the bundle gently as he approached his family members.

“Everyone, meet Eleonora Lillian Diaz,” Eddie smiled brightly, coming up next to Buck with a hand on his back. Christopher was on his other side and he set his other hand on their son’s head, brushing his hair back and smiling down at him when he bounced in happiness.

“She’s beautiful,” Hen cooed, standing up and coming closer, peering over the blankets to get a look at the round chubby face. “Oh wow,” she breathed, Karen at her side as they cooed at the new addition to the family.

“Make way for Uncle Chimney,” Chimney smiled, waiting for his turn to see her properly. He had seen her already since he had been in the labor ward with Maddie nearly two weeks ago, but he wanted to formally meet the new Diaz family edition.

“Not so fast, Aunt Maddie gets priority,” Maddie laughed, moving with her husband to the small bundle and taking her with a small gasp when Buck laid her gently in his older sister’s arms. “Hi,” she cooed, taking one little hand between two fingers as she rocked her gently.

After letting her have a few minutes, Buck gently took Eleonora back from her and in his own arms, moving to Bobby and Athena.

“El, baby, meet your Grandpa Bobby,” Buck said softly, looking down at his daughter before glancing up at Bobby and smiling at his fond and awed expression.

Bobby couldn’t find the words as he gently took Eleonora from Buck, cradling her in his arms and rocking her gently. “Well hello there,” he cooed, his lips forming a pout as he shook his head slightly and she looked up at him with striking baby blues, her dark brown hair a mop on her small head.

“Are you going to introduce her to her grandmother?” Athena asked teasingly, one hand over her heart as she feigned hurt. She smiled and leaned over Bobby’s arm to see her granddaughter, holding her tiny hand when she lifted it upwards. “Hi there,” Athena smiled, taking a moment to look back up at Buck and Eddie. The new parents looked exhausted but over the moon, leaning into one another slightly as Christopher went to play with Denny and Harry. “You boys better watch out, I think Bobby wants to take her home,” she laughed, nudging her husband teasingly.

“I have to take care of my grandchildren,” Bobby defended with a laugh, a bounce in his step as he swayed lightly, the baby in his arms already half asleep again. “I’ve already baby proofed the house,” he said and Athena hummed deeply because oh boy. While their house was already safe for children, it hadn’t been fitted for newborns or toddlers for a long time so obviously Bobby took it upon himself to fix that.

“Come on, you two could use some food, Grandpa over here can take care of El for a bit,” Athena said, stepping away from her husband and towards her adoptive son and son in law, guiding them away. She chuckled at how they almost protested and looked back at Bobby, not wanting their baby girl out of sight in typical new parent fashion. “She’s fine,” she drawled, rolling her eyes. “Come on you two, they need some bonding time and you need food,” she directed, her voice leaving no room for argument as she lead them towards the kitchen.

“I’ve got her,” Bobby assured with a nod, smiling at them as they were practically dragged away. He looked back down at his granddaughter and decided to move to the couch, sitting down at one end and settling down. Everyone was careful to keep the volume down and keep a good distance away to not disturb or distress her, all while keeping them company. When Athena deemed Eddie and Buck properly taken care of, she allowed them back to the others and they joined everyone in the living room.

Eddie smiled and sat down next to Christopher on the settee, wrapping his arm around him as Buck sat down next to Bobby on the couch, sharing a smile with the man as he did so.

Bobby leaned Eleonora into his arm while remaining on his lap so he could free his other arm and clap Buck on the shoulder with a firm nod and a soft smile. “I’m proud of you kid,” he praised, watching as Buck looked at him with shining eyes.

“Thanks dad,” Buck said softly, nodding and returning the private smile.

Bobby’s lips curved down slightly as he willed them to stay steady, nodding once more before turning his attention to the rest of the room. He felt Athena sit down on the arm of the couch to his left and he met her soft expression with a smile before looking down at his granddaughter and then over to his grandson with his son-in-law. His eyes drifted again, this time to his step-kids, then his team and their families, and finally his son.

Looking at all of them, Bobby couldn’t help the way his heart fluttered in his chest and swelled with pride.

What a beautiful family.

——————————

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#buddie #evan buckley #eddie diaz #bobby nash #911onfox #911 on fox #entire firefam #prompt #fluff #hurt/comfort

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